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Meet Daryl Williams of Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction

Meet Daryl Williams of Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction

Nestled on Riversdale Rd in the bustling Camberwell Junction precinct, Mecha Plus has been delighting hobby enthusiasts since its doors opened in 2018.

At the helm of this niche retail haven is store owner Daryl Williams, a passionate advocate for the art of model building and a lifelong fan of Gundams.

Under his guidance, Mecha Plus has become more than just a shop – it’s a vibrant community hub for model kit lovers across Australia and beyond.

An extensive range of Gundams, model kits and more

Mecha Plus is renowned for its extensive collection of Gundams – Japanese models of giant robots known as ‘mecha’ – that have captivated fans for decades.

These intricately designed mecha kits range from beginner-friendly to expert-level builds, catering to a diverse array of hobbyists. But Gundams are just the beginning of what the store has to offer.

The shelves of Mecha Plus are also brimming with model kits that include aircrafts, ships, tanks, and more. In addition, the store stocks train sets, kites, and other hobby supplies to satisfy enthusiasts of all interests.

It’s not just local customers who flock to Mecha Plus. The shop has earned a loyal following that stretches well beyond Melbourne. Mr Williams regularly welcomes customers from Adelaide, Queensland, and even New Zealand.

Whether they’re seeking rare kits, expert advice, or simply a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of model building, Mecha Plus has become a destination for hobbyists far and wide.

Meet Daryl Williams of Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction
Meet Daryl Williams of Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction
Meet Daryl Williams of Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction
Meet Daryl Williams of Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction

Building a community around the hobby

For Mr Williams, Mecha Plus is about much more than selling model kits. It’s about fostering a sense of community in the hobby space.

“People can come in and have a chat. I’m all about making customers feel included. It’s a shop where people can walk in and chat with other people about their passion and their hobby,” he said.

Mr Williams will often supply pizzas, nibbles and cold drinks for his customers to enjoy while they visit the store and chat all about their latest hobby builds.

He actively encourages customers to drop in for a chat, share their knowledge, and discuss their latest projects. This exchange of ideas keeps Mr Williams attuned to emerging trends and new products, ensuring Mecha Plus remains at the cutting edge of the model-building world.

“I rely on the knowledge of the people coming in [to the shop]. They tell me what they know about the products, so I’m constantly learning from the people who walk in the door,” he said.

It’s this interest in what his customers want that allows Mr Williams to adjust his product and service offering to align with his customers’ needs.

“I’m always trying to cater to what they’re looking for,” he said.

This connection to community extends online as well. The store’s public Facebook page boasts more than 3000 followers, where Mr Williams regularly updates fans about new arrivals and product launches. Additionally, the store’s private Facebook group, with a membership of 2300 dedicated hobbyists, serves as a vibrant hub for discussing current builds, organising meet-ups, and planning workshops.

Through these efforts, Mecha Plus has created a thriving network of model kit enthusiasts who support and inspire each other.

A hobbyist’s haven in Camberwell Junction

Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a curious beginner, Mecha Plus offers a welcoming space to explore the world of model kits.

The store provides not only an exceptional range of products but also an inclusive community where hobbyists can connect, learn, and grow.

Mr Williams said the thing that keeps his passion for the hobby shop going is, undoubtedly, the customers.

“I meet some interesting people. I feel I’ve become part of the community here because people have taken the time to get to know me,” he said.

For anyone looking to embark on a creative journey or deepen their passion for model building, Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction is the place to visit.

Meet Daryl Williams of Mecha Plus in Camberwell Junction

Visit the store

Mecha Plus

Mecha Plus

417 Riversdale Road, Camberwell, 3124

0404 114 301

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