Mike and Marie Downey joined the Gutter-Vac family in 2013. They have built thriving businesses at both ends of the country – Gutter-Vac Northern Territory, and Gutter-Vac Adelaide Hills. The Adelaide Hills territory was passed on to their son, Charlie, in early 2025. They are now looking forward to enjoying the fruits of their labour as they move towards retirement.
After many years in banking, finance, and administration, Mike and Marie were ready for a change. They wanted to be their own boss and reap the rewards of their hard work. While researching top Australian franchises, Gutter-Vac caught their attention, ranking eighth at the time. A meeting with founder Warren Ballantyne sealed the deal. “It was all positive from then on,” says Mike.
Whilst they started their banking careers in Adelaide, they were later transferred to the Northern Territory, living in towns such as Katherine, Alice Springs, and Darwin. Their years in the Top End gave them valuable insight into the region’s unique weather conditions, which proved to be a real advantage when they launched operations of Gutter-Vac Northern Territory in 2016. Since then, they have proudly delivered professional gutter cleaning services to homes, schools, and commercial facilities from the north to the south.
Running a gutter cleaning business in the Northern Territory comes with its challenges. Mike recalls his toughest job in the Top End, a two-storey home in Darwin with steep roofs and gutters packed with debris. “It took 90 minutes in 38-degree heat with 80% humidity. Good for some weight loss!” Mike jokes.
Mike and Marie have plenty of interests outside of work. Mike enjoys gardening and visiting wineries, while Marie loves Pilates and puzzles. Their favourite films? Forrest Gump for Mike— “great soundtrack and reminds me of my leg irons as a kid”—and Toy Story for Marie. Music tastes vary too: Marie loves Ed Sheeran, while Mike prefers 60s and 70s classics like The Beatles. When it comes to food, Marie is all about chocolate, while Mike opts for a steak paired with a good red wine.
After more than a decade of success, Mike and Marie are transitioning into semi-retirement, while continuing to provide services to the Northern Territory. In early 2025, they proudly assisted their son Charlie in taking ownership of the Adelaide Hills territory. “Charlie has worked with us for eight years and know what it takes to succeed” says Mike. They will continue to support him while enjoying the lifestyle their hard work has made possible. “The opportunities Gutter-Vac has provided cannot be understated” Mike adds.
Why Choose Gutter-Vac Northern Territory?
With years of experience and a reputation for reliability, Gutter-Vac Northern Territory offers professional gutter cleaning services that protect your property from water damage and maintain roof health. Using advanced vacuum technology, they ensure your gutters are clean, safe and functioning properly.
Request your free quote today.
