Creativity runs deep in Chinchilla, and Red Hill Creative is living proof. From a solo side hustle sparked during maternity leave to a thriving custom laser studio, founder Terri Keller has found a niche in rural design that’s anything but small-scale.

Red Hill Creative is a laser-cutting and engraving studio turning rural pride, custom keepsakes and handcrafted signage into an art form. From trophies for the local footy team to branded merch for regional small businesses, Terri’s built a business that’s personal, practical and full of passion.

“I’ve always been a creative,” Terri says, “but after starting our family, I needed something flexible that also fed my soul.”

What began as surface pattern design evolved into making earrings from her own artwork, then into a full-blown laser-cutting obsession. The flexibility, precision, and creative possibilities of working with timber and acrylic had her hooked, and Red Hill Creative was born.

“I saw how much potential there was for beautifully made, locally created products and was just obsessed with the creativity and beauty that could be achieved. And I wanted to bring that to the bush.”

Handcrafted with pride

Filling the rural creative gap

Before Red Hill Creative, if you wanted a quality custom sign, award or gift in Chinchilla, you had two options: wait weeks for it to arrive from the city, or settle for something mass-produced. Terri saw the gap and filled it with style.

“We didn’t have easy access to affordable, professional custom products, especially ones with that personal touch. Whether it’s a trophy for the local footy team or signage for a new small biz, I wanted to offer a way for people to get quality, handcrafted pieces without having to order from the city.”

From laser-cut cattle tags and personalised cake toppers to rustic wedding signage and branded wooden cheese boards, Red Hill Creative has become the go-to for locals wanting something unique. Terri’s ambitions didn’t stop there. She also launched the Chinchilla Creative Co., a shopfront and retail collective that showcases the work of other rural makers.

“It adds value to what we do,  and gives shelf space to local women doing amazing things with their own hands.”

The bush business reality

Running a creative business in regional Queensland isn’t all fresh country air and cute shopfronts. There are serious challenges, like sky-high freight costs, patchy supply chains and the constant hustle to be seen beyond your postcode.

“Freight is a big one. Getting raw materials delivered from city centres to us here is expensive and sometimes unreliable. We don’t have the luxury of next-day delivery or access to specialty suppliers just down the road. I’ve had to get really strategic about ordering ahead, managing stock carefully, and sometimes just… making do with what I have,” Terri explains.

Then there’s visibility. “Some days it feels like you’re shouting into the void of social media instead of spending time actually designing and making the beautiful things,” says Terri.

Still, Terri continues to show up, building loyal local support and utilising social media to connect with rural customers nationwide.

Terri, outside Chinchilla Creative Co – the shopfront she opened to showcase the region’s makers.

Powered by community

Despite the hurdles, Terri wouldn’t trade regional business life for anything.

“Hands down, the community is the best bit. People in the bush show up for you. Whether it’s customers cheering me on, local collabs, or someone popping in just to say they love what I’m doing. It means everything.”

Red Hill Creative’s impact goes beyond beautiful products. Terri has created trophies for junior sports clubs, designed signage for school events, and supported countless local fundraisers. Through Chinchilla Creative Co., she also champions other makers and is a proud stockist of TradeMutt. a social enterprise workwear brand sparking mental health conversations in regional areas.

From maternity leave to full-time boss

Red Hill Creative’s origin story is an interesting one. It wasn’t born in a fancy studio. It started during nap times.

“I started Red Hill Creative while I was still finding my feet as a mum,” says Terri. “I was craving a creative outlet, a sense of purpose, and something that was mine.”

That side hustle has grown into a full-time business, with customers across Australia. And though her journey didn’t unfold exactly as planned, she says that’s been a gift.

“The exact direction I thought I’d go with this business isn’t where I’ve ended up, and that’s been a good thing. I’ve trusted my gut and followed the doors that opened.”

Terri shows off a laser engraved keepsake

Regional roots, creative future

Being in the bush has shaped how Terri does business.

“Living in the bush teaches you resilience, resourcefulness, and how to back yourself when no one else is watching. It’s also taught me the value of slow, meaningful growth — and the power of community connection. Red Hill Creative is built on those values.”

She keeps her customers close through Instagram, Facebook, handwritten thank-yous and face-to-face chats in the store.

“I try to make every interaction feel like it matters, because it does. Without each and every customer, I wouldn’t be able to continue living my creative business dream!”

The future of Red Hill Creative

Terri’s not slowing down anytime soon. She’s dreaming of expanding her workshop, adding new keepsake gift lines and collaborating with other rural brands.

“One of my biggest goals is to grow to a point where I can employ more makers and creatives. I’d love to offer flexible roles for rural women who want meaningful work that fits around family life. That’s a future I’d be incredibly proud to build.”

And right now? Being named a Regional Heroes finalist feels like a career highlight.

“When you work from a little studio in a small town, it’s easy to wonder if your work matters beyond your postcode. This nomination is a huge reminder that yes, it does. I’m honoured, humbled, and wildly proud to represent Chinchilla.”

Terri’s advice for fellow dreamers?

“Back yourself. You don’t need a flashy setup. Just a strong ‘why’ and a willingness to figure things out as you go. Lean into your community. They’ll be your biggest supporters. And don’t be afraid to do things your own way.”

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