The Ocean Tyres you know today wouldn’t be possible without the help of so many; but there are a few who really deserve acknowledgement.  

When you enter the retail section of Ocean Tyres, you will see a Bronze Plaque. Unfortunately, my Mum passed away on the 24th of September, a couple of months prior to the official opening of Ocean Tyres that took place on Friday, the 27th of November 2009. Mum was an inspiration to me, the advice she gave me in my early life made me into the person I am today, and not a day goes by where she isn’t in my thoughts.  

In May of 2008, Kellie Bale joined our team as a bookkeeper at the old shed behind Corfield’s. Over 17 years later, she is now one of the 2 senior managers that run Ocean Tyres daily. Kellie brings her loyalty, honesty, and hard work to Ocean Tyres, all of which make her such an important member of the team.  

Back in early 2006, at age 17, my son Trent Backer started in the business. He very quickly learnt how to fit tyres, from passenger to truck tyres, and everything in-between. It was great to have him working alongside me, especially when we opened our new premises on Hanson Road, where we are currently located. Trent went on to also do warehousing, and was responsible for all freight related duties, which was immensely important for the rapidly growing business. Trent left in April of 2016 to fulfil his dream of travelling Europe, and he is still there to this day. I do miss him a lot, but that’s life.  

In March of 2011, at the ripe age of 17, my daughter Casey Backer started in the business – and she has made me a very proud Dad! Casey is also one of the two senior managers running Ocean Tyres, with the help of Kellie, both of whom are doing an incredible job.  Casey is very humble in her achievements, with too many to mention – however I can tell you this; she taught Scomo how to fit and balance a car tyre. Yes, one of our Prime Ministers! Casey also received a gold medal and certificate from the CEO of QAL, plus a dinner date as well. To put it honestly, Casey is a chip off the old block, I am so proud of this girl of mine.  

Now, there is another very important lady that deserves recognition, and that is none other than my beautiful wife, Viktoria Backer.  

I met Vikki on the 11th of November, 2006, over a flat tyre! Yes, a flat tyre! Who in their right mind would believe this! Vikki also worked in the business, sharing a very small workspace with Kellie. With the building of Ocean tyres that commenced in 2008, Vikki – with her exceptional artistic mindset – helped with the designs and colours, ensuring that the vision of Ocean Tyres was seen through the whole space. It was truly an honour for me that Vikki delivered my dream fit out of Ocean Tyres. Vikki, to this day, is still involved with doing all the little things that sometimes get forgotten about. She is loved by the team and adds a breath of fresh air whenever she is on site.  

Also, you may also be asking, why the colours blue, red and green? Well, these are my 3 children’s favourite colours. My dream of Ocean Tyres is all about my 3 kids.