Darren moved to Ballarat in 1989 and completed a Diploma of Visual Arts, majoring in Graphic Design, at Ballarat University (Ballarat College of Advanced Education back then!).

From 1992 to 1998 he worked in advertising and design, first as a graphic designer and, later, as Studio Manager of a local design studio. He worked on a myriad of press/print projects for local, national and international clients. He also became a sessional lecturer at Ballarat TAFE.

In 1998 he moved to Mildura to set up his own studio, Area 25 Design. While managing all aspects of the design and print processes, he gained valuable business experience. As well as running his own studio, employing two staff members, he undertook a lecturing position at LaTrobe University in Mildura.

Returning to Ballarat in May 2000, Darren became a partner in Small Dog Design, embracing all of the challenges of managing a studio. Darren is now the sole Director and runs the business day to day, including job and staff management, art direction, quality control, accounts, client liaison, as well as graphic design work.

Heading up the Geelong Kennel, Brandon completed a degree in Communication Design with First Class Honors at Swinburne University. On graduation, he worked as a part of an in-house design team, specialising in packaging and production, where he managed projects from beginning to end for some of Australia’s biggest retail outlets.

A keen interest in motorsport has also seen his experience grow in the areas of signage, photography and design of vehicle graphics. This quickly progressed into also developing commercially viable websites for motorsport teams, used to distribute timely information to shareholders and fans alike.

In 2013, after 5 years of industry experience, Brandon joined the pack at Small Dog. He brings with him a wealth of experience in corporate branding, packaging design and project management. Brandon prides himself on developing creative solutions based on a clear understanding of clients’ needs and their point of difference, in order to connect with their target demographic.

Born and bred in Ballarat, Michelle completed a degree in Visual Arts majoring in Graphic Design, at the University of Ballarat. Upon graduation she took up a position as part of the in-house design team at Sovereign Hill, Australia’s award-winning tourist attraction.

After 7 years at Sovereign Hill, Michelle chose to diversify her portfolio by relocating to a large local design studio. Here she managed all aspects of design and production for a broad client base, working on diverse projects at local, national and international levels.

In early 2007, Michelle joined the pack at Small Dog, bringing valuable experience in managing projects ‘from concept to completion’, and effecting creative yet practical design solutions. Michelle’s methodical approach and perfectionist nature ensures projects are completed to the highest quality.

Michelle has a great talent for understanding clients’ needs and developing designs that really connect with both clients and with the wider public. Michelle has received international acclaim, having her logos for Ear Nose Throat Ballarat, UFS Baby Club, Meridian Alliance, Tree House Domaine and Grampians Podiatry Clinic selected for publication in various volumes of the international design publication, LogoLounge.