People often assume that a web developer and an IT technician are the same thing—after all, they both work with computers, right? But in reality, these two roles are as different as a chef and a waiter. They might work in the same industry, but they do completely different jobs.

What Does a Web Developer Do?

A web developer is responsible for building and maintaining websites. They write code, design layouts, and ensure that a site looks good and functions properly. Web developers typically specialize in:

• Front-end development: Creating the parts of a website that users interact with, using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Back-end development: Managing the server, database, and applications that run behind the scenes, using languages like PHP, Python, or Node.js.
• Full-stack development: A combination of both front-end and back-end development.

A web developer’s job is creative and technical. They bring a website to life, ensuring it works smoothly on all devices and browsers.

What Does an IT Technician Do?

An IT technician is more focused on the hardware and software that keep a business running. They handle:

• Computer maintenance and repair – Fixing hardware issues, replacing parts, and troubleshooting software problems.
• Network management – Ensuring that internet and internal networks function correctly.
• Cybersecurity and data protection – Keeping company systems secure from viruses and hackers.
• User support – Helping employees with tech issues, from forgotten passwords to printer malfunctions.

An IT technician ensures that computers, networks, and other tech-related systems stay operational, minimizing downtime for businesses.

The Key Differences

The main difference? A web developer builds websites, while an IT technician keeps computers and networks running. A web developer writes code and creates online experiences, while an IT technician fixes broken computers, manages networks, and ensures businesses have the tech support they need.

So, the next time you need a website, call a web developer. But if you need help setting up email on your computer or your Wi-Fi won’t work? That’s a job for an IT technician.

Let’s get one thing straight: your website is not just some fluffy bit of internet magic that floats in the ether.

It’s a finely tuned machine, a precision instrument, a roaring V8 of ones and zeroes. And if you don’t understand how it works, well, you’re about as useful as a satnav with a dead battery. So let me explain it—properly.

The Domain Name – Your Internet Number Plate

First up, the domain name. This is the flashy badge on the front of your website. It’s how people find you online, like “yourbusiness.com.au” or, if you’re feeling particularly patriotic, something even more obscure.

The “.com.au” bit? That’s your vehicle registration—it tells the internet bouncers that you’re running an operation in Australia. You can’t just buy one of these, either. No, no. You need an ABN or ACN to prove you’re a legitimate Aussie business, because unlike certain online scams, we like a bit of credibility Down Under.

But the domain name is just a pretty face. It doesn’t actually do anything. For that, you need…

The DNS – The Internet’s Secret Satnav

DNS, or Domain Name System, is the mystical force that translates human-friendly names like “yourbusiness.com.au” into machine-friendly IP addresses. Think of it as the satnav of the internet, directing traffic where it needs to go. When someone types in your domain, the DNS tells their computer, “Ah yes, that website is parked over there,” and sends them to your web server.

If your DNS is wrong, it’s like trying to drive to Sydney with a map of Mars. You won’t get very far, and you’ll probably end up in a very dark place filled with 404 errors.

The Email Server – Your Digital Postie

Now, let’s talk email. If you’re using a proper business email like “you@yourbusiness.com.au” instead of something tragic like “yourbusiness1972@hotmail.com,” you’ve got an email server working behind the scenes. This server receives and sends emails on your behalf, making sure your messages don’t end up in the internet’s rubbish bin.

This is all configured in your DNS settings with things called MX records. If these aren’t set up right, your emails will disappear into the void, never to be seen again—like my patience when someone says, “Have you tried turning it off and on again?”

The Web Server – The Big, Powerful Engine Under the Bonnet

The web server is where your actual website lives. It’s a big, powerful computer that dishes out your website to visitors faster than a supercar off the line. When someone visits “yourbusiness.com.au,” their request is sent to your DNS, which points them to your web server, which then loads up your website for them to see.

Your web hosting provider manages this. If they’re decent, your site runs smoothly. If they’re not, your website loads at the speed of a 1993 Toyota Corolla going uphill in third gear.

How It All Connects – The Whole Package

So, in summary:

• Domain Name: The flashy badge on the front
• DNS: The satnav that directs traffic
• Email Server: The digital postman ensuring your emails don’t get lost
• Web Server: The high-performance engine that powers your site

If any of these parts fail, your website grinds to a halt. And if that happens, you’ll have a bad time. But now, at least, you know why.

So go forth, set up your website properly, and for heaven’s sake—don’t use a free email address for your business.

Ah, email scams. The cockroaches of the digital world. No matter how hard you try to stomp them out, they keep coming back, more resilient and annoying than ever.

And thanks to AI, the days of spotting a scam because of laughable spelling mistakes and dodgy grammar are coming to an end. The scammers have upgraded, and so must we.

So, here’s how to stay ahead of the game and avoid giving your bank details to some bloke in a dark room who thinks he’s clever.

1. The ‘Too Good to Be True’ Syndrome

If you get an email telling you that you’ve won a lottery you never entered or that a Nigerian prince wants to share his wealth with you, congratulations! You’ve been selected… to be scammed. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. No one gives away free money, especially not strangers on the internet.

2. The Urgent Call to Action

Scammers love a bit of pressure. “Your account will be suspended in 24 hours!” “Immediate action required to avoid legal action!” Absolute rubbish. Real companies don’t operate like this. They send you a polite reminder or a friendly nudge, not a virtual threat note demanding you click a link NOW or face financial doom.

3. Suspicious Sender Addresses

Once upon a time, scammers weren’t the brightest bunch, and their email addresses looked like they’d been created by a cat walking across a keyboard. Now, they’re sneakier. They use addresses that look real but have subtle typos, like “support@paypai.com” instead of “support@paypal.com.” A quick hover over the sender’s email address (without clicking anything, obviously) can reveal all.

4. Dodgy Links and Attachments

Clicking unknown links is the digital equivalent of licking a random door handle—it’s just a bad idea. Always hover over a link before clicking to see where it really leads. If it looks like someone has smashed a keyboard to create the URL, it’s probably a scam. And attachments? Unless you’re expecting one, don’t open it. That “invoice” could be a one-way ticket to malware town.

5. The AI Factor: Perfectly Written Lies

In the old days, a scam email was easy to spot because it read like a poorly translated instruction manual. But now, with AI writing better English than most people, scammers are churning out emails that look completely legit. No spelling mistakes. No grammar disasters. Just smooth, convincing text designed to fool you. So, you need to look deeper—scrutinize the sender, the request, and the legitimacy of the message itself.

6. Trust Your Gut (and Your Common Sense)

If an email makes you feel uneasy, trust that instinct. When in doubt, go directly to the company’s website and contact them through official channels. Never, ever click on links or provide personal details unless you’re 100% sure the request is legitimate.

Final Thoughts

Scammers are getting smarter, but you can be smarter too. Stay skeptical, double-check everything, and remember—no Nigerian prince is waiting to make you rich.

If you ever feel tempted to believe a too-good-to-be-true email, it doesn’t hurt to get someone else’s opinion. Ask a friend, colleague or your friendly neighbourhood web developer (I get asked often). Spending an extra little bit of time checking an email could save you a whole lot of heartache in the end.

For years, small business owners have been told that if they just plug away at SEO, their website will magically rise through the ranks of Google, and customers will flock to them like seagulls to a chip.

Well, I’ve got some news for you. Organic search is still there, but it’s not the powerhouse it used to be. Between algorithm changes, paid ads hogging the top spots, and the fact that people are increasingly discovering businesses through social media, relying on search alone is like trying to win a marathon in flip-flops.

Enter social media: the loud, fast-moving, slightly chaotic but undeniably effective way to get people onto your website. If you use it properly, it can be the single biggest driver of traffic to your business.

Step One: Social Media Isn’t Just for ‘Brand Awareness’ – It’s a Sales Tool

Many small business owners treat social media like a hobby—posting the odd picture, writing a caption that says “Check this out!” and hoping for the best. But here’s the thing: social media isn’t just about getting your name out there. It’s about sending people somewhere—your website—where they can actually buy something, book a service, or learn more about what you do.

Every single post should be part of a funnel. A photo? Link it to your online store. A behind-the-scenes video? Drop a call to action that directs viewers to your services page. A glowing review? Guide people to the testimonials section of your site.

Think of social media as a motorway. If it’s not leading somewhere useful, it’s just a very noisy traffic jam.

Step Two: Make Every Post Count

Your audience is scrolling while waiting for their coffee, half-watching TV, or pretending to work. You’ve got seconds—maybe even a fraction of a second—to grab their attention and make them click.

Here’s what works:

• A great hook. Something short, snappy, and impossible to ignore. If your first line is dull, nobody’s sticking around for the rest.
• A clear call to action. “Click here to learn more,” “Shop now,” “See the full story” – whatever it is, make it obvious where they need to go next.
• A direct link. Sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how many businesses forget this. If people have to hunt for your website, they won’t bother.

Step Three: Engagement Fuels Visibility

The more people engage with your posts, the more the algorithm rewards you. Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn don’t just show your content to everyone who follows you—they push posts that get interaction.

That means you need to do more than just post and hope. If someone comments, reply. If someone shares, thank them. If someone asks a question, answer it. A post with five genuine comments will be seen by far more people than a post with zero engagement.

And before you say, “But my audience doesn’t engage,” consider this: Maybe you’re not giving them something worth engaging with. Try a question, a poll, a strong opinion, or even something funny. The more interaction you get, the more your post spreads.

Step Four: Don’t Just Guess – Use Analytics

Throwing posts into the abyss and hoping for the best is a waste of time. Every social media platform gives you insights into what’s working and what’s not.

Check your analytics. Are people clicking links from Instagram but ignoring Facebook? Focus on Instagram. Are videos outperforming photos? Do more videos. Is your audience more active at 7 PM than at 10 AM? Post at 7 PM.

Data tells you exactly what works. Use it.

Step Five: Keep the Funnel Flowing

Social media should always lead to your website, but once visitors arrive, your site has to do its job. That means:

• A clear and fast website. If your site takes ages to load, people will leave.
• A straightforward navigation system. If visitors can’t find what they came for, they won’t stick around.
• A strong call to action. If you want them to book, buy, or contact you, make it obvious and easy.

The Bottom Line

Right now, social media is your strongest tool for funnelling people to your website. Ignore it, and you’ll be left shouting into the digital void while your competitors lap up the clicks. Use it properly, and it’ll deliver customers straight to your virtual doorstep.

So stop waiting for Google to do all the work—take control, post with purpose, and watch as your website traffic starts moving in the right direction.

You’ve seen the headlines—yet another business falling victim to a phishing scam, customer data stolen, reputations in tatters.

It’s easy to think it won’t happen to you, but cybercriminals are always on the lookout for their next target. If your website isn’t properly secured, you’re practically inviting them in for tea and biscuits.

But don’t panic just yet—this guide will show you how to lock down your site and send these digital con artists packing.

Step 1: Lock Down Your Domain Like It’s the Crown Jewels

If your website isn’t rocking an SSL certificate (that little padlock in the address bar), you’re practically rolling out the red carpet for scammers. Get one. Now.

Next, set up DMARC, SPF, and DKIM. These aren’t just random letters someone pulled out of a Scrabble bag. They’re email authentication protocols that tell the world, “If an email isn’t from us, it’s from some dodgy bloke in a basement.” Without them, scammers can send emails pretending to be from your business faster than you can say “data breach.”

Step 2: Stop Contact Forms from Becoming Scam Factories

Your website’s contact form is like the front door of your business. Would you leave it wide open with a neon sign saying, “Come on in, hackers!”? No? Then install Google reCAPTCHA to stop bots from spamming you with phishing attempts.

Step 3: Teach Customers and Staff to Smell a Scam

If something looks dodgy, it probably is. Educate your customers: “We will NEVER ask for your details via email.” And train your staff not to click links in shady messages that look like they were written by a drunk toddler with a keyboard.

Step 4: Two-Factor Authentication – Because Passwords Alone Are for Amateurs

If you’re still relying on “admin123” as your website password, just hand your business over to the hackers now and save them the trouble. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your admin panel and encourage customers to do the same. It’s like putting a second lock on your front door—because one isn’t enough when criminals are about.

Step 5: Updates Aren’t Optional, They’re Essential

Your website’s plugins and software are like milk—they go bad over time. Hackers love exploiting outdated plugins, so keep them updated. If a plugin hasn’t had an update in years, bin it. No exceptions.

Phishing scammers are annoying, persistent, and always looking for crumbs. But if you follow these steps, they’ll move on to easier targets (like that guy still using “password123”).

Lock down your site, secure your emails, and stay one step ahead of the cyber-weasels. Because nothing is more satisfying than stopping a scammer in their tracks. And if all of this sounds like gibberish, or you’d rather focus on running your business than wrestling with website security, contact your website developer who can handle it for you. The expert in regional small business websites is Tropical Coast Web Design. Get in touch with us because we believe keeping your site safe shouldn’t be another headache on your to-do list.

There are two types of businesses in this world.

The ones that need a brochure website and the ones that need an online store. And the problem? Too many business owners don’t know which camp they fall into.

Some set up an online store when they don’t need one, staring at their empty orders like a fisherman who’s just cast his net into a swimming pool. Others go with a simple brochure site when they really should be taking payments online—because let’s be honest, making money while you sleep is significantly better than not making money while you sleep.

So, let’s clear this up, shall we?

Brochure Websites: Because Not Every Business Needs a Checkout Button

A brochure website is the online equivalent of a firm handshake. It tells people who you are, what you do, and why they should care. It’s perfect for businesses that don’t sell physical products online but still need a professional online presence.

Think of a local plumber. You don’t go to a plumber’s website expecting to “Add Pipe Repair to Cart” and check out with PayPal. No, you go there to get their phone number, see if they look vaguely competent, and maybe read a few reviews before deciding whether you trust them with your pipes.

Brochure websites are also brilliant for service-based businesses—lawyers, electricians, wedding celebrants, consultants, and anyone who relies on client contact rather than instant transactions. These websites set the stage, show off expertise, and give people a way to get in touch.

Online Stores: The Shop That Never Sleeps

Now, if your business involves selling things, then a brochure website alone is as useful as a shop window with no door. Sure, people can look, but how are they supposed to buy anything?

If you make and sell handmade jewellery, run a clothing brand, or stock agricultural irrigation equipment (yes, I see you, farmers), you need an online store. This isn’t just a fancy website—it’s a sales machine. Customers add products to a cart, enter their details, and—just like that—money lands in your account. No need for them to call you, send an email, or visit you in person.

For eCommerce businesses, an online store is the difference between running a modern operation and still using pen, paper, and the “call me for a quote” method, which is a guaranteed way to lose impatient customers to a competitor who does let them buy instantly.

So, Which One Do You Need?

The answer is simple:

• If your business relies on people contacting you before they buy (like a lawyer or a builder), a brochure website will do the job perfectly.
• If your business sells products directly to customers (like a gift shop or a boutique clothing brand), an online store is what you need.

Get it right, and your website will work for you—not just exist. Get it wrong, and you’ll either be staring at an online store with no sales or answering the same “How much is this?” phone calls from customers who should’ve just been able to click “Buy Now.”

Either way, the internet is supposed to make business easier. So make sure your website is actually doing that.

Right, so you need a “.com.au domain for your business? Excellent choice.

It tells the world you mean business in Australia. But, of course, this being the land of rules and regulations, there are a few hoops to jump through before you can slap your domain name on a website and call it a day.

1. You Need an ABN or ACN (Yes, Bureaucracy is Involved)

Unlike the Wild West of .com domains, getting a .com.au name isn’t as simple as thinking of something clever and clicking ‘buy now’. No, you need to prove you’re a legitimate Australian business by supplying an Australian Business Number (ABN) or Australian Company Number (ACN). It’s annoying, but it keeps out the scammers and weirdos, so fair enough.

2. Your Domain Name Must Actually Make Sense

You can’t just register BobsSuperCoolWebStore.com.au if your business is actually called Bob’s Plumbing Supplies. The domain name has to relate to your business name, products, or services. It’s a rule. And you know what? It’s a good one. Otherwise, the internet would be full of dodgy names leading to totally unrelated websites.

3. They’ll Want Your Contact Details

You’ll need to hand over your:

• Full name (Yes, your real one, not “BigBoss69”)
• Business address (Somewhere they can find you, not “Middle of Nowhere, QLD”)
• Email address (One you actually check)
• Phone number (Preferably one that isn’t constantly on silent) These details are vital, not just for the admin folk but also for when you inevitably forget to renew your domain.

4. Pick a Domain Registrar

You can’t just register a .com.au domain anywhere; you need to use an accredited .au domain registrar. Some are good, some are expensive, and some are the digital equivalent of a dodgy used car salesman. Do your homework before handing over your hard-earned cash.

5. How Long Do You Want It?

You can register a .com.au domain for one to five years. Personally, I’d go for five – because the last thing you want is for your domain to expire right before a big marketing campaign. Auto-renewal is your friend here.

6. Don’t Lose Your Domain Management Login

This part is probably the most important from my point of view as your web developer.

Once you’ve secured your domain, you’ll get access to a control panel where you can update details, renew the registration, or mess about with DNS settings (whatever those are). Store these somewhere safe or you’re in for a world of pain when it comes time to make changes.

Final Thought – Just Do It Properly

Getting a .com.au domain is easy – if you follow the rules. And, trust me, you want to follow the rules. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck in domain registration limbo, watching someone else snap up your perfect name.

Need a hand? At Tropical Coast Web Design, we know how to navigate the system without the usual headaches. Get in touch, and let’s get your business online – properly.

Running a local club or association means juggling a lot—coordinating events, communicating with members, and trying to grow your group.

It’s no easy task, but having a website can make things so much simpler.

A website isn’t just for big organizations; it’s a tool that brings people together, helps you stay organized, and shows the world what your club is all about.

Here’s why your club needs a website:

1. It Keeps Everyone on the Same Page

Imagine having one go-to place where members can find everything they need—event dates, meeting agendas, or even forms to fill out. A website acts as your digital noticeboard, open 24/7. No more chasing emails or wondering if everyone saw the post on social media.

2. It Helps New People Find You

Let’s say someone in your area is looking for a club like yours. If you have a website, you’re making it so much easier for them to discover you. By sharing who you are, what you do, and how to join, you’re opening the door to new members who might not have found you otherwise.

3. It’s a Place to Celebrate

From event photos to milestones and achievements, your website is the perfect place to show off what your club has accomplished. Sharing these moments builds pride among your members and gives potential newcomers a peek into the fun and impact they could be part of.

4. It Saves You Time

A website can simplify tasks like managing memberships or collecting fees. Instead of dealing with paperwork or cash at every meeting, you can use your website for online applications and payments. It’s quicker, easier, and way less stressful for everyone.

5. It Keeps Members Engaged

Your website can be more than just a tool—it can be a space for connection. Posting updates, sharing newsletters, or even having a blog keeps your members in the loop and excited about what’s happening next. It’s a little reminder of why they joined in the first place.

6. It Supports Your Fundraising Goals

Whether you’re raising funds for a project or looking for sponsors, a website can help. You can set up donation forms, sell tickets to events, or even showcase your sponsors. A professional-looking site shows potential supporters that your club is organized and worth backing.

Building a website might feel like a big step, but it’s one that pays off. It’s not just about being “modern”—it’s about making life easier for your members, creating opportunities for growth, and strengthening your club for years to come.

So why wait? Let your club shine online, and show your community what makes you special.

When it comes to building an online store, choosing the right platform makes all the difference.

WooCommerce has earned its place as a top choice for eCommerce, and for good reason. It’s powerful, flexible, and puts you in complete control of your store.

If you’re on the fence, let’s dive into why WooCommerce stands out as the best option for your business.

1. Your Store, Your Way

One of the best things about WooCommerce is how much freedom it gives you to make your store exactly what you want it to be. Need a sleek, modern design? No problem. Want to add a unique feature? There’s likely a plugin for that. WooCommerce is built on WordPress, which means you can customize everything, from the layout to the checkout process, so it fits your brand perfectly.

You’re not stuck with cookie-cutter templates or basic features here—you’re in control, and that’s empowering.

2. Room to Grow

Whether you’re selling five products or 500, WooCommerce is built to grow with you. It’s ideal for businesses at every stage, from just starting out to expanding into a full-blown eCommerce powerhouse. You can add more products, create new categories, or integrate advanced tools without breaking a sweat.

And here’s the thing: with WooCommerce, you don’t have to worry about hitting a ceiling. As your business evolves, it evolves with you.

3. You Own Everything

When you use WooCommerce, you own your store and all the data that comes with it. It’s hosted on your website, so you’re in the driver’s seat. You control how your store runs, how your data is stored, and how your customers interact with your brand.

This ownership is a big deal. It means you’re not tied to someone else’s platform, and you won’t face restrictions if you ever want to make changes or grow in a new direction.

4. Budget-Friendly Flexibility

WooCommerce is free to use, which gives you a lot of wiggle room when it comes to managing costs. Start small with free themes and plugins, then invest in premium features as your business grows.

This flexibility means you’re only paying for what you actually need. No unnecessary fees, no one-size-fits-all pricing—just a platform that adapts to you.

5. Handles the Tough Stuff

Selling products with lots of variations? Want to offer subscriptions? Need to integrate with third-party tools? WooCommerce can do it all. It’s built to handle the complex stuff, making it a great fit for stores with specific needs or ambitious goals.

You’re not limited here—WooCommerce is up for the challenge, whatever your business throws at it.

6. A Huge Support Network

With WooCommerce, you’re never on your own. It’s backed by a massive community of developers, designers, and users who are ready to help when you need it. Tutorials, forums, and experts are just a click away.

Why WooCommerce Wins

If you’re serious about building an online store that reflects your brand, grows with your business, and gives you total control, WooCommerce is the way to go. It’s more than a platform—it’s a partner in your success.

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on your small business website and online promotion strategies.

A fresh, well-optimized website sets the stage for growth, while smart marketing helps you connect with more customers.

With 2025 just around the corner, here are four key resolutions to get your online presence ready for the new year.

1. Refresh or Rebuild Your Website

If your website is starting to feel outdated, now is the time to take action. A modern, functional site not only creates a great first impression but also ensures your business is ready to compete in 2025.

Why it matters: An old design or clunky functionality can turn visitors away. Customers expect mobile-friendly, fast-loading websites that are easy to navigate.

Resolve to: Evaluate your current website’s look and performance. Is it meeting your needs? If not, consider a complete rebuild or targeted updates.

Tropical Coast Web Design specializes in website rebuilds and modifications. Whether you need a new design, improved features, or technical fixes, we’re here to help. Let us partner with you to create a site that works hard for your business in the new year!

2. Focus on Local SEO

Small businesses thrive on local customers, and optimizing your website for local search is a powerful way to connect with them.

Why it matters: When people in your area search for services like yours, you want to be the first name they see.

Resolve to: Update your Google Business Profile with accurate details, including your location, hours, and services. Add locally relevant keywords to your website and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. These simple steps can make a big difference in your local visibility.

3. Strengthen Your Content Strategy

Your website’s content is the key to engaging your audience and building trust. High-quality, relevant content not only attracts visitors but also keeps them coming back.

Why it matters: Search engines love fresh content, and so do your customers. Blogs, videos, and other resources help showcase your expertise and keep your site relevant.

Resolve to: Create a content plan for 2024. Write blog posts answering common customer questions, share behind-the-scenes stories, or offer how-to guides related to your industry. By posting consistently, you’ll increase your website’s visibility and build a loyal following.

4. Engage Customers Through Email Marketing

Email marketing is a simple yet effective way to stay connected with your audience. It’s personal, direct, and cost-effective.

Why it matters: Regular emails keep your business top-of-mind and provide opportunities to share promotions, updates, and tips.

Resolve to: Build or grow your email list. Create value-packed newsletters that include helpful content and exclusive offers. Link these back to your website to drive traffic and boost sales.

Get Your Website Ready for 2025

A strong website and online strategy can set the tone for a successful year. Whether it’s a complete refresh, better local SEO, engaging content, or improved email marketing, every step counts.

If your website needs some love, Tropical Coast Web Design is here to help. Let’s work together to make your online presence shine in 2025! Contact us today to get started.