Wendy - That'll Do Creative Art, Gladstone, QLD - Microenterprise Development | Community Economic Development

Wendy – That’ll Do Creative Art, Gladstone, QLD

Finding Direction, Confidence and New Possibilities: That’ll Do Creative Art

I am Wendy Rapson, founder of That’ll Do Creative Art, a creative business inspired by self-expression, the Australian landscape, and the natural beauty of the Sapphire Gemfields.

My passion for sapphires began after visiting the Gemfields more than ten years ago. Today, I create resin gem jewellery and deliver hands-on workshops that encourage people to experiment, trust their creative intuition, and make something uniquely their own.

The message behind That’ll Do Creative Art is simple: give it a go. Don’t let perfectionism-or the feeling that you are not good enough-stop you from creating.

What were you doing before you contacted Many Rivers?

Before contacting Many Rivers, I was trying to run That’ll Do Creative Art without a clear sense of direction. I felt as though I was going around in circles, and there were no clear boundaries between my personal life and my business.

A friend had accessed support from Many Rivers and found the organisation extremely valuable, so I decided to make contact in December 2025.

I wanted to take That’ll Do Creative Art to a different level and prove to myself that I could achieve anything I put my mind to.

What support did you receive?

I received business coaching from Many Rivers. The greatest value was having someone believe in me as a business owner and encourage me to explore new opportunities.

My coach was honest but gentle when sharing observations, particularly around money management and bookkeeping practices. That balance of honesty, encouragement and practical guidance helped me look at the business more clearly and make stronger decisions.

I did not receive a loan from Many Rivers, but I was informed that finance was an available option. I was also guided on the importance of having a business plan, especially when applying for grants. This helped me understand how planning can support the long-term growth of my business.

I do not currently employ anyone, although my coach and I discussed the advantages and challenges of taking on employees in the future.

What has been your biggest challenge?

My biggest challenge has been finding a healthy balance between business and personal life. I can become completely immersed in the business, and sometimes it feels-to both me and my family-as though I am working on it 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The coaching has helped me recognise the importance of clearer boundaries and of building a business that supports my family life rather than taking it over.

What has been your biggest success?

One of my proudest achievements has been presenting resin gem jewellery workshops at the Hughenden Festival of Outback Skies. The workshops invited participants to select raw corundum and embed it in resin, creating one-of-a-kind pieces and lasting memories.

I have also valued the connections I have made with community organisations, including Make & Mend in Agnes Water and the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre.

Travelling and creating connections are central to the future of That’ll Do Creative Art. I want to share the story and beauty of the Sapphire Gemfields across Australia while encouraging the good old Aussie attitude of simply giving something a go.

What has changed for you and your family?

One of the biggest changes for our family is that we travel away more often than we did before I engaged with Many Rivers.

This aligns with my future plans for the business because travelling allows me to take workshops to new places, meet new people and build relationships with communities around Australia.

My business coach’s enthusiasm was infectious. It inspired me to seek more opportunities for my business and helped me believe that bigger goals are possible.

What do you hope to achieve in the future?

I would love to attend and present at more festivals. My ultimate dream is to become a workshop presenter at the Ord Valley Muster in Western Australia.

My next goal is to master YouTube. I once told my coach, Colin, that I could never do it. Now, I have the confidence to give it a go.

That change in mindset means so much to me. Many Rivers helped me see that I am capable of learning, growing, and taking That’ll Do Creative Art further than I once imagined.

Thank you, Many Rivers, for believing in me, encouraging me, and helping me find a clearer direction for That’ll Do Creative Art.

 

Connect with That’ll Do Creative Art

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatlldocreativeart/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Asista-61580180433494/

 

Many Rivers

At Many Rivers, we’re here to help you take the first step towards building your business.

Find out if you’re eligible for support and start your business journey today.

CLICK HERE to see if Many Rivers is right for you

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