Continuing The Legacy

No family business survives and thrives for the best part of a century without having built and carefully maintained a rock-solid reputation.

So it is for Morrell’s Vans on Port Road, Woodville South, which is now a partnership between Stuart Morrell and long-time friend Mick Boydon.

With 72 years on the clock, it remains the longest-running independently owned second-hand vehicle dealership in South Australia.

“Reputation and repeat business are what keeps good businesses going during quiet times,” Stuart said.

The pair have worked together since its late founder Brian Morrell, Stuart’s father, retired in 2001.

His poignant advice: “Do what you’d want someone to do for you”.

“The proof is in the pudding,” said Stuart.

“We’ve stayed in business for 70-odd years under our family name.

“I don’t have a problem walking into a restaurant or pub and be worried about someone coming up to me and having a crack.

“Instead, I have people say, ‘Your father sold my grandfather his first car in 1958’.

“So there’s a real legacy, it’s fantastic. I feel very proud.”

One Owner Approach

Mick said the pair vowed to maintain the company’s good name when they joined forces.

They sell only vehicles with oneowner books and only after they have been put through a rigorous 85-point mechanical inspection.

“Some car yards over the last 30-40 years have really turned people off, it’s basically take that car and that’s it,” Mick said.

“Our philosophy is exactly the opposite and always has been. It’s the reason why we’ve always had a mechanical workshop.

“Because if someone comes back to us with a problem, that’s when you need to give your best service and look after your client.”

Mick, a qualified spray painter, handles the retail side of the business while Stuart, a qualified mechanic, runs the workshop.

They now specialise solely in vans and utes, boasting the state’s widest commercial range, because of its attraction as a niche market and “ it’s what we know and what we’re known for”.

The genesis of the Morrell business goes back a third generation to Stuart’s grandfather, Alex, who established the family’s long-time property at 406 South Road as a scrap metal and bottle depot in 1942.

A young Brian soon began buying and selling cars and a dynasty was born.

Brian’s passion for cars extended to racing.

He won many events at Mallala and Calder Park in his silver Elfin no. 49 car, in partnership with Garrie Cooper.

The young Stuart joined his father’s business as a qualified mechanic.

He soon met Mick, whose Jolly Cars yard was just three doors further down South Road and the future of the Morrell family business was sealed.

Recently Morrell’s purchased an renovated a new location on Port Rd in Woodville which they now call home.