Family At The Core Of Reef Side Plumbing
Cody and Taleah Virgona aren’t just business partners, they’re a husband-and-wife team building Reef Side Plumbing together. Combining Cody’s hands-on plumbing expertise with Taleah’s skills in accounts and administration, they’ve created a family-run business that reflects their shared values.
“Taleah and I have always had a desire to create something of our own. After years of working for companies, we wanted to do things differently to offer our customers a more personal experience with someone they can genuinely trust.” Cody said.
Starting a business as a family unit wasn’t without challenges, but for the Virgonas, the rewards have been immeasurable. “Taking that first initial step and diving in headfirst is one of the scariest things you can do. But it’s also been the most rewarding. Seeing the positive response from our customers never gets old.”
Their guiding principle is simple: purpose over profit. "When you lead with passion, compassion, and hard work, everything else eventually lines up,” Cody explains. Mentorship has also helped them navigate the road ahead. “The biggest influence would be my fellow mates in the trade business, especially one of my good friends, Sam Beardsell from Beards Plumbing and Roofing… Having mates who’ve walked the road before you really helps you prepare for the unseen, and when they genuinely want to see you succeed, it means a lot.”
Working as a family shape how they build business relationships. “We don’t see clients or suppliers as transactions, they’re part of our journey,” Cody said, “Taking the time to listen, communicate openly, and deliver on what you promise builds trust, and trust is everything in business.”
Even personal challenges have strengthened their partnership as Cody recalls, “I used to race motocross competitively, but in 2020 I had a bad accident that left me with a broken back, a broken pelvis on both sides, and a collapsed lung… With the incredible support of my wife and family, I made it back to 100% no issues at all.”
Balancing family life with running the business is key. “Because it’s Taleah and I running the business, it can be hard to switch off but we’ve learned to set boundaries and make time for family. We remind ourselves that we built this business for a better life.”
Looking ahead, the Virgonas aim to grow Reef Side Plumbing as a trusted, family-run business. “We’ll keep focusing on quality work, strong relationships, and growing at a pace that still lets us stay connected with our customers.” Grateful for the community’s support, they add, “Every job, every conversation, every challenge has shaped who we are today. We’re excited for what’s ahead and proud to be doing it together as a family, and for our community.”
Favourite way to unwind?
Anywhere we can spend time together as a family with my wife, Taleah, and the kids. A favourite is riding the Finch Hatton trails with my young fella early in the morning. You’re up in the hills, surrounded by nature, and it’s a reminder of why we work so hard.
