Capricorn’s brightest stars announced

SUPER MECHANICS CELEBRATED ACROSS AUSTRALIA

Supercheap Auto received 492 nominations of super mechanics as part of its Your Super Mechanic promotion

Recently Supercheap Auto Trade held its Your Super Mechanic promotion to help drivers pay homage to those unsung saviours of the road – our super mechanics – with $12,500 in prizes up for grabs. The leading automotive retailer launched the promotion via Triple M on Monday 6 June to recognise and reward those Aussie legends who tune-up, top-up, repair and replace whatever is needed to keep our rides running. Now, ten inspiring mechanics have won $1,000 each in Supercheap Auto gift cards to spend in-store – whether they want to trick out their workshop or kit out their home garage. Drivers who nominated their mechanic also went in the draw to win one of 50 x $50 vouchers to spend in one of Supercheap Auto’s 260 stores nationally. The ten winners – who stood out for providing excellent services, quality care and great advice to their customers - included JCM Mechanical, Precision 4WD, Macarthur Auto Electrical & Mechanic Repairs, Campbelltown Automatic Transmissions, Technique Automotive, InFront 4x4 and Jeep Auto Worx. Supercheap Auto Trade General Manager Peter Coyne said Supercheap Auto has helped people Make it Super since 1972, and its Trade program is no different – offering mechanics all the gear they need, under one roof. “Our research shows more Australians than ever are investing in their cars – particularly in the past two years – repairing and upgrading them rather than replacing them,” Peter said. “This has seen mechanics across the nation step up and deliver service and advice that consistently goes above and beyond to their car, bike and truck-loving customers. “Supercheap Auto Trade has been a one-stopshop for tradies and small business owners for years and we were delighted to launch Your Super Mechanic to show our appreciation for the super things mechanics do for their customers and communities.” Supercheap Auto Trade Members receive special offers, tailored pricing, a 30-day credit, monthly Trade catalogues, exclusive competitions, a Trade Discount Card and a 7-day Trade hotline. For more information, visit www.supercheapauto.com.au/trade/

CAPRICORN’S BRIGHTEST STARS ANNOUNCED

The Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year finalists have been revealed

In its fifth year running, Capricorn’s prestigious Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year Awards received 341 nominations from automotive businesses across Australia and New Zealand. Capricorn says the high calibre of entries received in 2022 is a testament to the ongoing value and importance of apprentices in the industry. By recognising the contribution of automotive apprentices, Capricorn aims to help build a more sustainable industry and forge deeper relationships with young repairers and workshops. The top five Capricorn Rising Star Apprentice of the Year competition finalists are: • Marama Thompson – Auto Super Shoppe

Eurotech, New Zealand • Harrison Oastler – NQ Kool Cars and Kustoms,

Queensland • Jessica Smith – Harris Automotive, Victoria • Jackson Vogelsang – Fleurieu Crash Repairs,

South Australia • Chelsea Bowers – John Edwards Automotive,

Queensland Capricorn Chief Executive Officer Automotive, Brad Gannon, said the awards showcased the talent and diversity of automotive aftermarket apprentices from panel and fabrication to auto electrical, general mechanical, heavy diesel and more. “Unlike other apprentice competitions that focus purely on the technical proficiency of nominees, Capricorn Rising Stars prioritises rewarding apprentices who demonstrate a passion for the automotive industry, a positive can-do attitude and a strong commitment to forging a long career as a repairer,” Brad said. “The unique judging criteria created a level field for first to fourth-year apprentices across all disciplines. This encouraged Capricorn Members to nominate apprentices who demonstrated outstanding character and potential. “Completing an automotive apprenticeship is no easy undertaking. The qualified technician shortage highlights how important it is to train the next generation, support our apprentices and create a pipeline of talent for the future.” Strong female representation has also been a prominent feature of this year’s Rising Star awards, with women making up three of the five finalists for the first time in 2022. The Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year Awards is delivered by Capricorn in partnership with Castrol, Repco and the Workshop Whisperer. The top five finalists receive a $1,000 Repco voucher, $1,000 cash from Castrol and tickets to two Repco masterclasses. The overall winner will also receive an additional $5,000 in prize money from Castrol and a Capricorn Rising Stars trophy. The winner’s workshop will also receive complimentary enrolment in the Workshop Whisperer’s Service Advisor Pro online program. The five finalists will now go on to compete for the coveted title of Capricorn Rising Star 2022, which will be announced in August. For more information, visit www.capricorn.coop