‘Why we choose Nambour’: Toyota dealer reflects on 23 years of growth and loyalty

By Cameron Outridge

For Brett Mills, anchoring his family’s automotive business in Nambour wasn’t just a strategic choice — it came from a belief in the town’s character and potential.

Speaking at the Nambour Chamber of Commerce Coffee Catchup on July 3 – hosted fittingly at Ken Mills Toyota, the business named after his father – Brett reflected on more than two decades of operating in the region.

“We’ve been in business in Nambour now for 23 years,” he told the crowd. “I've got a small town, small business background. And when we came to the Sunshine Coast, I really wanted to anchor our business in Nambour. We have another location in Maroochydore.”

Many questioned that decision at the time. “A lot of people asked, ‘Why did you do that when you’re at Maroochydore? Wouldn’t it make more sense to anchor there?’” Mr Mills recalled.

But the answer was simple he said: community loyalty.

“I find that towns like Nambour are very reciprocating when you invest in the town and do the right thing around the town,” he said. “It’s been so good to watch Nambour over the last 20 years — the way it’s changed and grown has helped our business stay stable.”

As broader economic conditions shift, Mr Mills sees Nambour’s resilience as a regional hub as a constant. “Nambour always just chugs away. It always does,” he said. “There’s so many positives around Nambour and that’s why we have stayed here.”

Having recently completed renovations on the dealership, Mr Mills says his investment in the town would continue — despite some growing pains regarding space. “I only see positives for the future of Nambour,” he said. “And I’ve always felt that way, despite what people may have said in years gone by.”

Mr Mills said, with passionate local leadership of the type offered by the Chamber, the town's future was bright.

Event MC Jody Chatillon from Nambour Chamber of Commerce with Ken Mills Toyta Dealer Principal, Brett Mills.