THE idea that tools and DIY are traditionally “men’s work” is a thing of the past, with more women discovering the satisfaction that comes from getting hands-on with projects at home and in the workplace.
From hanging shelves and assembling furniture to renovating, gardening, maintaining machinery or taking on home improvements, having the right tools can make all the difference.
Total Tools Shepparton and Echuca co-owner Haxhije (Hajea) Cox has welcomed a growing number of women coming through both stores, whether they are working in the trades or simply looking for the right equipment to tackle a project themselves.
“There’s a real sense of achievement in knowing you can pick up a tool and work something out yourself. It gives you confidence and independence, whether it’s a small repair or a bigger project,” Haxhije said.
For many women, becoming more confident with tools is about more than completing a job. It can be about independence – knowing you can pick up a drill, use a saw, fix something that is broken, or take on a project without having to wait for someone else to do it.
That confidence can start with something as simple as a small DIY project at home and grow into bigger renovations, landscaping, mechanical work or even a career in the trades.
At Total Tools, customers can access advice and a wide range of products suited to everyone from the professional tradie to the weekend DIYer.
The team brings experience from agricultural, trade, construction and mechanical backgrounds, providing customers with practical knowledge to help them find the right product for the job.
Haxhije believes everyone should feel comfortable walking into a tool store and asking questions, regardless of their experience or whether they are a professional tradesperson.
“I am proud to be the owner of a local business that employs locals from a diverse background and employs many females in a male-dominated industry,” she said.
The growing interest from women also reflects a broader shift in how people approach DIY and home improvement.
Women are increasingly taking the lead on projects around their own homes, learning new skills through online tutorials, workshops and hands-on experience, and discovering that there is no reason tools should be intimidating.
Whether it is a weekend project, a home renovation, a garden upgrade or a professional job, having the confidence to choose and use the right tools can open up a world of possibilities.
And sometimes, the most empowering thing is simply being able to say: “I’ll do it myself.”
Total Tools Shepparton is located at 46-52 Benalla Rd, Shepparton and the Echuca store is located at 7-9 Murray Valley Hwy, Echuca.
