Winning Big, DIY Style

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Read about John's journey after winning a $10,000 backyard makeover in our Clipsal Wiser promotion...

In 2022, Middy’s partnered with Clipsal Schneider in a national Wiser Backyard Makeover Promotion, inviting customers to enter a draw by spending $250 on Clipsal Iconic and Iconic Outdoor products. Among the three lucky winners of a $10,000 prize package each was John Morrell, an experienced electrician boasting over a decade in the industry.

John's journey began with robotics and automation before transitioning to commercial and residential projects, where he expanded his expertise to include solar and air conditioning services. His business, Bryte Spark Electrical, serves as a one-stop shop for electrical jobs while offering a range of specialised services.

John learnt of the promotion at his local branch, Middy's Salisbury. "I noticed the posters and the branch staff also mentioned it to me," he recalled. Intrigued by the opportunity, John decided to enter and ended up winning the grand prize.
 
Winning the $10,000 Backyard Makeover was a thrilling moment for John. The prize included $2,000 worth of Clipsal Schneider products and up to $8,000 worth of labour and products from a local landscaper.

Despite his initial excitement, John faced challenges with the landscaping component of the prize. Many landscapers quoted exorbitant prices or were difficult to locate. Applying his own skill set and capabilities in landscaping, John commenced the project himself. "With a frontage of over 158m and a depth of over 280m, most landscapers seemed uninterested, whether due to the size of the job or their busy schedules," John explained.
 
John purchased his property two years ago, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he couldn’t unlock capital for his renovations. His motivation for the project was to achieve the best outcome at a small price, fencing off an area for his dogs and cleaning up the yard.

After receiving quotes up to $9,500 just to move dirt and remove two trees, and an astonishing $58,500 for 142m of fencing (with additional costs for concrete plinths and gates), John decided to take matters into his own hands. He took five days off work, hired a larger bobcat and excavator than the ones he owned, and started working on the project himself, saving more than $60,000 in the process.

The project, which started in October last year, is still underway. “The land is huge, and I estimate the project should be completed in about six months,” John said. Spanning 11 acres, it features the use of Clipsal's Iconic range, including outdoor power points and switches. By the end of the year, he plans to install $20,000 worth of cameras for enhanced security.
 
By undertaking the project himself, John not only saved money but also gained valuable skills and control over the outcome. "I saved a lot of money by doing the project myself. I learned a lot, had full control, and now have a project I am truly proud of," he shared.

John's journey with the Middy's Clipsal Wiser Backyard Makeover showcases his determination and resourcefulness. It’s a testament to how taking initiative can lead to significant savings and personal satisfaction.