Business
13 November, 2025
No more blocked drains for ‘Zuds’
A 40-year plumbing business has closed its doors, with its owners keen to travel in retirement.
Zammataro Plumbing had been in business in the Douglas Shire and beyond for 44 years.
Antonino Zammataro, simply known as ‘Zuds’, started the business travelling around in an old Holden Kingswood with his tools in the boot.
One year later, he met his wife-to-be Loretta and together they further developed the business.
Prior to this, Mr Zammataro was an apprentice at Mossman Sugar Mill between 1976 and 1980.
He was born in Mossman, not long after his family emigrated from Italy.
His wife Loretta was also born in Mossman, her family coming from Rugby in the UK.
Mr Zammataro recalled the first job that he quoted for, which was worth $1700.
“Unfortunately, my dog fell out with the customer’s pet wallaby and the vet’s bill came to $400,” he said.
Since then, business has generally been more positive with Zammataro Plumbing employing hundreds of staff over the years. At one single point they employed 35 people in total. The business had a fleet of 31 registered vehicles, including various trucks, trailers and bobcats and over the years has serviced a number of local resorts.
Mr Zammataro keeps his hand in with a few small jobs.
“We want to go around Australia in a caravan,” Mr Zammataro said. “We also want to go to Italy, as I am the only sibling out of seven who has not been there.”
All of the equipment at the now closed Zammataro Plumbing site is being sold off.
Read More: Port Douglas
