What started as a small business to help her son Harrison earn money for a mountain bike has grown into a thriving local enterprise. 

After years of juggling two jobs, Nicola Hallam has now dedicated herself entirely to Bin Concierge, expanding the service area and strengthening its presence across Kiama and surrounding suburbs.

Launched in 2022, Bin Concierge helped Harrison achieve his goal of buying his dream bike and while he moved on to school, friends and a typical teenage life, the business itself continued thanks to Hallam’s dedication.

For several years, she balanced running Bin Concierge alongside a physically demanding full-time delivery role. Days were long, and evenings were spent cleaning bins.

“It was a very tough transition … I never really felt efficient because my full-time job took over me. I was already just so tired from delivering parcels for 12 hours a day,” Hallam said.

Despite the challenges, she never lost faith in the business. 

“I just always had this vision that it could grow into something really solid for the community. I love being out in the community. I love that connection,” she said.

Four weeks ago, Hallam took a “massive leap” – resigning from her full-time delivery role to put all her energy into Bin Concierge. 

The shift allows her to focus on sales, marketing and proactive growth, something she admits the business lacked while she was juggling both roles.

“I was just responding before, and now I’m being proactive and really marketing the business as it should have been in the beginning,” she said.

A new website is in development and marketing efforts are ramping up with calls, promotions, leaflet drops and canvassing. 

Hallam says the community response has been powerful.

“People genuinely enjoy having their bins cleaned. It’s one of those services that makes a real difference to everyday life,” she said.

The service area is growing rapidly. Originally focused on Kiama Downs and Minnamurra, Bin Concierge now reaches Calderwood, Tullimbar, Shell Cove, Shellharbour, Oak Flats and as far south as Gerringong.

“My afternoons are pretty full. From about one o’clock onwards, I’m out cleaning bins,” Hallam said.

Operating from her home – which previously housed her beauty therapy business before COVID lockdowns – the space is being transformed into her Bin Concierge office. 

While the work remains physical, focusing on one business has brought renewed energy and clarity.

“It’s still a big day, but now all my effort is going into something I’m building for myself and my family,” Hallam said.

“It’s definitely a leap of faith, but the demand is there, and now I can finally give the business 100 per cent,” she said.

With marketing underway and interest growing in surrounding suburbs, Bin Concierge is poised for its next phase. 

“I’m eating, sleeping, dreaming and working Bin Concierge,” Hallam said. “I’m really excited about where it’s heading.”

What started as a simple idea to help her son reach a goal has become a fully fledged local business built on persistence, community connection and the courage to take the next step.

For more information email [email protected] or contact 0437 000 571.