A South West-based movie stunt rigger has launched a new bouldering wall facility in Penryn after securing support from SWIG Finance.
Guy McDonald and his wife, Julia (Jules), opened BoulderRyn in early September, and were “instantly swamped with keen climbers.”
Guy has spent the past 15 years working in the UK and US film industries, ensuring stunt sequences are rigged and executed safely. His CV includes major Hollywood productions such as Venom: The Last Dance from the Marvel series, starring Tom Hardy, and the First World War epic 1917.
The new facility, located in Kernick Business Park, is well positioned to attract students from the neighbouring Falmouth University campus, as well as local businesses looking for team-building activities. The couple also hope to introduce themed nights and bring in professional climbers for special showcase events.
The business now employs 10 people — a mix of students and local residents — and plans are already underway for an expanded café offer and a small retail shop.
The launch was made possible through the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme, alongside further backing from the South West Investment Fund. Guy and Jules’ business mentor, John Whittaker of Access 2 Finance, helped introduce them to SWIG Finance, who approved Start Up Loans for each director in addition to a SWIF business loan.
Most of the funding was invested in the bouldering wall itself, along with climbing holds, matting, and shoes. Additional spending covered operational essentials including the lease deposit, payment systems, website development and refreshments.
Jules praised the support they received during the application process: “They were brilliant – we had lots of online meetings and they were extremely supportive. It was quite a tricky learning curve for us, but no question was ever a stupid one and we had done business plans and financial forecasts with John, so all the details were there. They were encouraging and excited for us, which was amazing. We have already recommended them to other people.”
Suzy Lowe of SWIG Finance added: “Guy and Julia are a force combined, with the skills and expertise to make this business a great success and attract participation from across the country to the South West. It was a pleasure to understand their passion for launching an amazing facility in Cornwall. Building the loan application was very much a team effort and both were fully on board. This business will be a great asset, and I wish them every success.”
