Retailer Spotlight | Third Edition
Retailer Spotlight
Meet Tony at
Mister Minit
With more than 30 years of experience, a passion for cutting keys and a Manchester United beanie that rarely goes unnoticed, Tony is one of Cleveland Central’s most familiar faces.
Tony’s Mister Minit career began rather unexpectedly, with an interview in a Pizza Hut car park in Townsville.
From there, what started as a job became a career spanning more than three decades. Tony has worked across Mister Minit stores in Cairns, Townsville and Melbourne before eventually making Cleveland home.
More than 14 years later, he is still behind the counter at Mister Minit Cleveland Central, helping customers solve everyday problems and continuing to do the work he genuinely enjoys.
More Than Just Keys
While Tony will happily tell you that cutting keys is his favourite part of the job, Mister Minit offers far more than many customers realise.
- Shoe repairs and shoe care
- Authorised Birkenstock repairs
- House and speciality key cutting
- Spare car keys and remote controls
- Garage remotes and access cards
- Security padlocks
- Watch batteries, glass and band replacements
- Watch pressure testing and waterproofing
- Watch cleaning and polishing
- Laser and hand engraving
- Custom name badges
- Trophies and medals
- Knife, scissor and tool sharpening
- Keyrings and personalised gifts
“You can never have too many keys.”
— Tony
Real People, Fixing Problems
When asked what keeps him coming back to work each day, Tony joked that he is simply not old enough to retire yet. The real answer, however, is that he genuinely enjoys the work, especially cutting keys and helping customers solve practical problems.
Whether you need a spare key for the friend feeding your pets while you are away, have a new housemate or partner moving in, or simply want to avoid being locked out, Tony would be very happy to cut you another set.
His kindness is also a big part of the service he provides. If an elderly customer comes in needing help with a very small job, such as adding a single hole to a belt, Tony will often do it free of charge.
Many customers later return with a scratchie or simply a heartfelt thank you. Those gestures mean a lot to Tony and are part of what has kept him connected to the Cleveland community for more than 14 years.
Outside Work
A Homebody at Heart
Outside work, Tony enjoys relaxing at home with his wife and watching sport. While he once spent more time camping and exploring the outdoors during his Townsville days, these days he is happy to describe himself as a homebody.
Football
Manchester United Through and Through
Tony enjoys all sports, but English football is the clear favourite. He is a passionate Manchester United supporter, with the “Cantona” beanie featured in his photos paying tribute to one of the club’s most iconic former players.
Family
Proud Dad of Three
Tony is a proud dad to three sons, Austen, Eric and Matthew. His youngest, Eric, recently graduated with a degree in economics and commerce.
Recognition
Redlands Retailer of the Year
Although he is far too humble to make a fuss about it, Tony was also previously recognised as the Redlands Retailer of the Year.
Some Jobs Are More Unusual Than Others
After more than three decades with Mister Minit, Tony has received his fair share of memorable engraving requests, including one rather cheeky engagement gift that is probably best left undescribed.
One of his favourite stories involved a customer who brought in beautiful handmade, glass-blown pistols to be engraved. Tony admired the craftsmanship and told the customer how much he liked them.
A few days later, the customer returned and gifted Tony two of the handmade pieces. They are still proudly displayed in his home today.
Tony’s Top Shoe-Care Tip
Don’t leave your favourite shoes sitting untouched in the cupboard for too long.
Tony recommends wearing them regularly, even if it is only around the house for 15 minutes. Keeping shoes in use can help prevent materials from deteriorating and reduce the chance of them breaking down when you finally bring them back out.
Father’s Day at Mister Minit
Gifts for Dad, Made Personal
With Father’s Day approaching, Tony is encouraging customers to make their gifts more meaningful with Mister Minit’s laser and hand-engraving services.
Make It Personal
Add Dad’s name, initials, a special date or a short message to create a keepsake that is uniquely his.
Gift Ideas
Consider personalising a watch, keyring, hip flask, travel mug, pocket knife or multitool, pen, plaque, trophy, metal wallet card, barbecue tools or even a sentimental item Dad already owns.
Real People, Fixing Problems
For Tony, the best part about his customers is their genuine appreciation. A simple thank you can make his day and reflects the Mister Minit promise he continues to live by after more than 30 years.