A “HAPPY accident” could prove to be a masterstroke for Scone’s Tom Smith.
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The 24-year-old, and his mate Dylan, will enter the Shark Tank – Channel 10’s popular television series – on Tuesday night to pitch their invention, the Hammbag.
Interested residents will have to watch the episode to see how the duo fairs in front of Janine Allis, Andrew Banks, Steve Baxter, Dr Glen Richards and Naomi Simson.
But, Tom admits it was a great experience.
“The staff and ‘Sharks’ were extremely helpful,” he said.
“They made Dylan and I feel very relaxed.
“I actually feel privileged to be on the show.
“We needed the Sharks for exposure, help with business knowledge and money to purchase the patent.”
So, what is a Hammbag?
“It’s a hammock, towel and bag – all in one,” Tom explained.
“I believe it’s very practical; I use mine every day.
“It’s made from a lightweight canvas for the outside and a soft towel lining for interior, the supporting ropes and straps are heavy duty and will support up to 120kg; while adjustable black straps allow for an expanded volume of up to four times its original capacity.
“We came up with the concept on a road trip to Byron Bay.
“I love the outdoors and go camping regularly, as does Dylan.
“Then we experimented with various ideas before settling on the Hammbag.
“My mum [Raelee] sewed our first one and helped us develop some prototypes.
“I took mine hiking in New Zealand, while Dylan used it in Europe.
“Everyone was asking how did they get one?
“It’s something so simple, but you can take the Hammbag camping or hiking, to the beach or a music festival.
“The list [of uses] is endless.”
The former Scone Public and Scone High school student still has strong ties to the town.
“My parents live there,” Tom said.
“Even though I left the area in 2012, to attend university, I return home to see my family and friends during the holidays.”
Tom said the Hammbag process, so far, had been a massive learning curve.
“We’re still very rough on the business plan,” he told the Advocate.
“However, it’s been well-received.
“A manufacturer in Bali is putting together our first order for 500 Hammbags.
“The plan, at the moment, is to sell them in markets.
“We’ve also had about 15 store enquires for pre-sale stockists but no deals.
“We want to have a strong online presence and retail in surf stores.
“We’ve also got a lot of other ideas in the pipeline – but I can’t say anything yet,” he added with a laugh.
Shark Tank airs on TEN, on Tuesday, from 8.45pm.
