Uptown Hair Nambour recently celebrated a significant milestone: 25 years of business, friendship, and community service. Owner Rhonda Billett, who founded the salon on July 4, 1999, reflected on the journey with gratitude.

Back when Uptown began, the business landscape was starkly different—”no GST, cheque books were a form of payment, we had limited hair colour options, and a very different Nambour”. Rhonda attributes Uptown’s longevity to adaptability and managing business expectations. “We move and adapt with the local economic climate and customer needs,” she said. This flexibility has allowed Uptown to provide opportunities for young people entering the workforce and quickly resolve any business problems that arise.”

Rhonda’s passion extends beyond her business. She is a fervent promoter of Nambour, working tirelessly with the “I am Nambour” and “Nambour TramCo” teams, and collaborating with the council to boost the town’s business and tourism potential. “Nambour is more than just a location; it’s a community I deeply care about and strive to support in every way possible,” she said.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges, with restrictions impacting customer numbers and operations. Despite these hardships, Rhonda and her team focused on maintaining the business and securing jobs. “We had to change and adapt very quickly. It was heartbreaking to lose customers, but we had to do what we could to stay open, counting patron numbers in the studio constantly” she recalled. “The mindset that the team and I developed, was that we needed a business and jobs to come back to after the pandemic passed, and that got us through that hectic period of business.”

Reflecting on her journey, Rhonda acknowledged the demanding nature of business ownership but also its rewards. “Business ownership can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding. I just love it!” she enthused. She credited her father, Kevin Billett, for his invaluable advice and support. “Dad was very bossy with me in those early days, I was only 21, but his experience and guidance were crucial. He taught me to choose logic over emotion in business decisions,” she said.

Uptown Hair Studio is more than a job for Rhonda; it’s a lifestyle she loves. She has built long-lasting relationships with many clients, some of whom she has been styling for almost 30 years. “We go way back and many are like an extended hair family,” she remarked. “Some of the people around this table tonight, I’ve had the privilege of doing your hair and knowing you for 30 years this December.”

Over the years, numerous staff members have contributed to Uptown’s success. Rhonda is passionate about providing opportunities for young stylists, helping them grow and pursue their own careers. “There is nothing more rewarding than giving opportunities to emerging hair stylists who are eager to learn,” she said. Many former staff members have gone on to achieve great things in the hairdressing industry, a source of immense pride for Rhonda.

As Uptown Hair Studio celebrated its 25th anniversary at the Club Hotel Namba last Thursday, Rhonda expressed heartfelt thanks to her team and loyal customers gathered. “Thank you for sharing this evening with us. Here’s to another 25 years of Uptown Hair Studio.”