20130087 motor trader july 2013 4web

Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

www.mtaq.com.au

July 2013

Richard Hammond

Members Classic: Special FX Solo crossing of Antarctica

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Contents Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/MTAQueensland

Head Office Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 P.O. Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Tel: 07 3237 8777 Fax: 07 3844 4488 Toll Free: 1800 177 951 Email: publications@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au Editor Bill Key Art Director Marco Ilinic Industrial Relations Ted Kowalski Michelle Chadburn Policy Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland Advertising Enquiries Bill Key Mobile: 0421 057 094 Facsimile: 07 3844 4488 Email: billk@mtaq.com.au Editorial Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information telephone the Editor 07 3237 8777 Subscription Rates (including GST) Australia: $72.60 annually Overseas: $110 annually Motor Trader Publishing Policy Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry.

The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.

16 02 From the editor

MTA Queensland ABN: 74 028 933 848

04 Policy/Viewpoint

16 Members Classic Special FX: 1953 Holden FX

06 News

Corporate Partners

TOOWOOMBA HONDA WINS TOP AWARD

08 MTA Q&A Brenda Gosney

20130087

Feature 10 The original Richard Hammond 28 Keeping abreast of the elements

Members essentials

19 Members matters

Divisional news

21 Training matters 25 Industrial relations 26 Member profiles

14 Motorsport VOLVO READY FOR A V8 CHALLENGE

31 Motoring

15 Roadtest Suzuki Kizashi Prestige: Sporty

32 Industry insight

looks with a luxury feel

Dealer only auction house

The most important asset in your business is your people July 2013 Motor Trader | 1

From the editor

W

Bill Key Editor

hat a month June turned out to be, especially for Queensland.

The Maroons leveled the State of Origin series and a Queenslander became Prime Minister…again.

July Motor Trader is a special edition with MT securing an interview with Top Gear host and worldwide celebrity motor head Richard Hammond on Page 10.

‘The Hamster’ as he is popularly known, talks about his children, Aussie fans and his desire to own a Valiant Charger.

He also speaks about the dark day in 2006 when he nearly lost his life driving a jet-powered dragster.

MTAQ General Manager Kellie Dewar reports on her trip to North Queensland visiting members and has the latest news and policies affecting members on Page 4.

In our Members Essential section starting on Page 19 we have a special 2-page feature on the training arm of the MTAQ, the MTA Institute of Technology (MIT).

MIT has a start-of-the-art facility just off the M1 near Springwood, and we highlight the industry-leading equipment and training that is available to benefit businesses in the motor industry.

Our Members Classic this month is a beauty.

Steve Jeffs of Bob Jane T-Marts, Toombul has restored a lovely old 1953 Holden FX, and races it regularly in the historic Group N racing series. When you consider this old car now produces 160hp and has drum brakes all round, you can imagine the fun Steve has when he ventures onto the track.

And remember, please contact me, if like Steve you have a classic car, bike

or truck, and you want to share it with fellow motoring enthusiasts in MT. I will come and interview you and take photos or we can talk over the phone and you can supply your own images, either way you’ll end up with a cracking spread in the centre of the magazine.

Our MTA Q&A on Page 8 is with Brenda Gosney, owner of Mark McHugh Body Works on the Gold Coast. Brenda is a real success story, after leaving school at the age of 14, she is currently undertaking a management course through MTAQ, and owns a successful business. Her son Chris is manager of the shop and also enrolled in the same course.

On Page 28 we have the incredible tale of a Queensland adventurer who is planning a grueling solo trek across the Antarctica, all in the name of charity, and to help support one of his best friends.

Plus we have road tests, industrial relations, member profiles and divisional news to keep you informed and entertained.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Motor Trader, don’t hesitate in contacting me or your divisional executives, Ben, Cameron and Andy if you have a story you think is worth telling, want to appear in Members’ Profiles or have a car you want featured in Members Classics, it’s your magazine, be a part of it.

President’s Ball

Sofitel Brisbane. Tickets will go on sale soon and will be at a special member’s price of only $75.

Sponsorship opportunities for the event are available. Please contact Dani Fioretti on 0427 981 647 for more information.

MTA Queensland will host a President’s Ball for members in Brisbane on November 23, 2013. The special black-tie event will be hosted on the evening by 4BC radio personality Gary Hardgrave and held at the

2 | Motor Trader July 2013

Have a great month,

Bill Key billk@mtaq.com.au

AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICESHIP MENTORING PROGRAM. The Apprenticeship Mentoring Program seeks to improve Australian apprenticeship retention rates through targeted mentoring and assistance to all 1st year automotive apprentices.

For many individuals, starting an apprenticeship is the first time they have been in industry and this can mean they need additional guidance and support to help them through. Mentoring support aims to improve the apprenticeship experience for both apprentices and employers in a more sustainable way.

An apprentice mentor can be a great companion through the early stages of an apprenticeship. To contact your nearest mentor and find out what they have to offer, visit maapmyfuture.com.au or call the MAAP My Future national hot line on 1300 587 756.

www.facebook.com/MaapMyFuture

MAAP My Future is an Australian automotive industry initiative proudly support by:

This National Automotive Industry Mentor/Adviser Project is funded by the Australian Government Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education through the Australian Apprenticeships Mentoring Package. The views expressed in this document are those of Auto Skills Australia and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Australian Government or state and territory governments.

Policy/Viewpoint

Kellie Dewar General Manager MTA Queensland

I

was writing my last Viewpoint on my way to Cairns to meet with AADA Members and I promised I would report on the outcomes in this column.

Andy O’Hearn - our Divisional Executive who works exclusively with members north of 1770, joined me on the trip. I met with AADA members from Cairns and the Atherton Tableland to hear the issues relevant to them. Issues discussed were the auditing of Stamp Duty, the new direction for AADA, and progress on the splitting of the Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act. I was followed North by Divisional Executive Ben Chesterfield who, with Andy, held a series of information sessions on the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct and eMTA in Cairns, Townsville and Mackay and were well attended by members in the smash repair sector.

Policy Issues

We have received advice from the Office of Fair Trading about licensing requirements for the commercial sale of vehicle parts. The advice stated that persons in the parts recycling industry that sell used parts are required under law to hold a motor dealer’s licence.

The obligation falls on the business operator to ensure salespersons in their business have the appropriate certificate.

We also received advice from OFT relevant to our members in the Farm Machinery and Industrial Machinery Dealers Division involved in the sale of 4 | Motor Trader July 2013

quad bikes. OFT has advised that there are two quad bike configurations - each requiring a different licence.

Quad bikes fitted with the required equipment to make it suitable for registration in Queensland are considered to be used motor vehicles. To legally sell vehicles of this type, a motor dealer’s licence is required. Conversely, quad bike vehicles that cannot be registered in Queensland because of their design are considered farm machinery. These could be sold by persons holding only a second hand goods dealer’s licence.

I urge Members to give consideration in relation to the commercial sale of second-hand quad bikes. If more information is required, our Divisional Executive Cameron Carter would be pleased to help.

Training policy issues have been a preoccupation for us and MTA Queensland has written to both the Federal and State Governments. In a letter to the Queensland Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek, we stressed the importance of the automotive industry to the four pillar economy and requested a meeting to discuss how MTA Queensland can participate in the delivery of training and employment policies outlined in the State Budget and the Queensland Skills and Training Taskforce report. The consequence of this is that the advocacy role of state-based MTA’s such as MTA Queensland will become important in ensuring all Governments have timely and accurate advice on skills strategies.

Australian Motor Industry Federation (AMIF)

An ongoing political issue concerns motor vehicle manufacturing in Australia.

Ford has indicated it will cease production of motor vehicles in Australia from October 2016 and GM Holden’s future in Australia seems uncertain.

Unfortunately, while all the policy focus has been on the manufacturing side of the automotive industry, the other side (the retail, service and repair and recycling sectors) has been neglected.

This was the key message from AMIF Chief Executive Richard Dudley in his recent address to the National Press Club. In a strong speech Mr Dudley said

the entire automotive industry was in the midst of unprecedented change. To that end, he demanded that the incoming Government undertake an automotive industry White Paper process to address the challenges impacting the entire automotive industry.

He said that successive Governments had failed to recognise that the domestic automotive industry does not begin and end with vehicle component manufacturing and that a new approach is needed that includes the other 75% of the industry who employ 320,000 Australians in 100,000 businesses. These sentiments are not new. In the MTA Queensland’s submission to the 2008 Bracks Automotive Industry Review, we said that “to maintain sustainability in the Australian automotive industry across the whole value chain (not only the Australian manufacturing elements) policy assessment should be broad. It should not be totally focused on the manufacturing sector.”

Being invited to address the Press Club is a significant honour, and the media coverage that resulted was significant. It is excellent that we were able to bring these issues back into the national spotlight at a key moment in the election cycle.

Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct

In Viewpoint last month, I said that we had input into the strong AMIF and the AADA submissions to the Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct which was reflected in the report into the Review of the Franchising Code of Conduct.

An interim report has been released for comment and AMIF will continue to participate in industry consultations.

A code of conduct between independent automotive repairers and car manufacturers

The Federal Government has endorsed the need for a code of conduct between independent automotive repairers and car manufacturers.

The code would see repairers allowed access to the data they need to service modern cars. This decision is part

of the Government’s response to an inquiry by the Commonwealth Consumer Affairs Advisory Council into choice for consumers in the automotive repair market.

The Federal Government has asked the Chairman of CCAC, Mr Neave AM, to monitor industry led negotiations on a voluntary code of conduct. If industry representatives fail to make substantial progress on the code by the end of 2013, the Government will start a process to examine other regulatory options, including a mandatory code of conduct.

State Budget

With all the leadership speculation in Canberra, the Queensland State Budget has slipped off the radar. Our Public Affairs Manager, Dani Fioretti attended the stakeholder’s lock-up receiving the first-hand briefings. The Treasurer said it would be a “no frills, no nonsense budget”, and it was.

Like the Federal Government, Queensland has experienced revenue write downs with revenue forecasts down by $5.3b since March 2012 and the deficit for 2013-14 running at $7.7b. Gross debt will reach $80.1b in 2014-15.

It was disappointing that the commitment to increase the exemption level on payroll tax was not honoured.

For our medium sized businesses, the increase would have been helpful. At the same time, we recognise the solid work done on cutting red tape that has assisted business.

A matter we monitor in each State Budget is QFleet. I draw AADA Members to the advice included in the QFleet’s initiatives that it had released an “Invitation to Offer to the market for the provision of vehicle marketing and disposal services for Queensland Government vehicles for the period 1 July 2013 to 30 June 2016.”

I note that the Newman Government has announced its Late Payment Policy to apply small businesses. From 1 July 2013, the Late Payment Policy will guarantee that private sector suppliers who are not paid within 30 days will receive interest on amounts they are owed. Premier Newman said the policy delivered on an election promise and demonstrated the government’s commitment to lift its own performance.

Shopper dockets and

petrol discounting

Pay@Pump technology

Warranty Repairs and Approved Repairers

As I said in Viewpoint last month, “Drive-offs” is a financial hazard for our Service Station and Convenience Store Association Members. For the last financial year 2011-12, there were 11,849 thefts across Queensland.

I note that Caltex Australia has elected to introduce Pay@Pump technology for 300 Caltex and Star Mart retail sites nationally by the end of 2013. This payment technology would enable motorists to pay for their fuel at the pump.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s investigation into shopper dockets and fuel discounting is still continuing. The expectation was to finish mid-year. ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said the ACCC was “hopeful to conclude the investigation by the end of the year. He said that while “it is a very high priority investigation; it is continuing to take time.”

The ACCC has granted authorisation to the RACQ and its Approved Repairers to allow them to set the labour rate for warranty repairs undertaken by another Approved Repairer. Under the proposed warranty repair scheme, defects in an original repair can now be fixed by any RACQ Approved Repairer at no cost to the member. This will be particularly convenient for those members who may be travelling and away from their usual mechanic.

New Motor Vehicle Sales Queensland’s new motor vehicle sales for May were down 1.3% or 19,151 units on the previous month.

Nationally, new motor vehicle sales declined by 0.6%. Compared with May 2012, Queensland new motor vehicle sales fell by 1.6% (trend).

Nationally, sales increased by 2.1%.

That’s it for this month. Until next month, take care.

News ONLINE REGO SEARCH As you may know, NSW recently made vehicle registration stickers redundant.

So how do you know if the car you are working on is registered and safe to take for a test drive? Simply plug in the vehicle registration number to the NSW Government's free online registration check. The tool will tellyou the status of the registration, renewal date and CTP coverage.

Go to www.myrta.com and search for Rego.

NEW SIGNS FOR MEMBERS

Approved Member

We have just received new stock of our large MTA Queensland metal signs. These signs will identify you to customers and passing traffic as a trusted MTA member and are a great way to attract business.

The signs are 900mm x 600mm aluminium composite. Buy 1 for $65 (plus p/h) or pay $60 each for two or more. Get an edge over your competitors: contact the stationery department to order on 3237 8777 or by email stationery@mtaq.com.au July 2013 Motor Trader | 5

News

TOOWOOMBA HONDA WINS TOP AWARD M TAQ members Toowoomba Honda Motorcycles has been awarded National Honda Dealer of the Year for 2012.

The announcement was made at the Dealer of the Year Awards Dinner held in Melbourne last month.

Honda took the opportunity to congratulate all of the State and Territory winners who were in attendance at the awards dinner.

The Honda Motorcycles Dealer of the Year Awards reward excellence in dealership management and customer service.

Over a 12 month period, a rigorous

6 | Motor Trader July 2013

performance review is undertaken on all Honda Motorcycle Dealerships in order to calculate the winners.

Toowoomba Honda Motorcycles achieved the highest score through a strong Customer Service Index (CSI) rating and strong sales growth throughout 2012. Servicing a large provincial centre, Toowoomba Honda Motorcycles offer both road and offroad Honda Motorcycles along with ATVs and agricultural products.

Honda highlighted the vital role Honda Dealerships play in responding to customer’s needs and expectations and thanked the entire dealer network for their hard work.

New job website

A new player has been launched into the multi-million dollar online employment market in Australia with JobStop.com.

The new business has been strategically linked with motorsport website speedcafe.com, which has been developed into one of the world’s leading racing authorities.

While the low-lying fruit of the motorsport and motoring industries are the first targets for jobstop.com, there are already plans in place to extend the brand into all employment areas with mining, education and health opportunities already in the pipeline, according to the site’s Sales and Marketing Manager, Leisa Emberson.

As part of the launch, use of the site is free for all employers and potential employees for at least the first three months. It is envisaged that the site will be up to 50% less expensive to use than current popular employment sites when it finally puts its pay wall in place.

Those looking for a job can search by location, key words, industry and even tailor their personal dashboard to find jobs that suit them. An option exists for job searchers to add their CV for employers to find them.

The website will also be creating regular employment news and information and is to become a real hub for the industry. There is already strong daily use of social media to promote the brand and products.

“JobStop.com’s aim is to be a fast, easy and hassle-free platform for those searching for a new job and for companies and recruiters looking to hire staff,” said Emberson.

Australian Automotive designers recognised The Australian automotive industry turned out in force last month to congratulate young automotive designers in Victoria.

More than 250 automotive industry guests attended the VACC Automotive Design Awards, in the Deakin Edge, Federation Square.

Minister for Manufacturing, Major Projects and Ports, David Hodgett, presented the six category awards.

In addition, Ford Australia selected two secondary student entrants to attend the Ford Design Centre and one tertiary student received the inaugural Australian Overseas Federation Overseas Scholarship, sponsored by the Victorian Government.

“The level of talent on display was highly impressive. The VACC Automotive Design Awards is a fantastic opportunity for Victorian students to display their work and have it viewed by prominent members of the Australian automotive industry,” Minister Hodgett said.

The VACC Automotive Design Awards is an annual automotive design

Minister David Hodgett presented the awards to the six winners

competition for secondary and tertiary students in Victoria. Introduced by VACC in 2006, the Design Awards is Australia’s most prestigious automotive student design event. VACC donates $26,000 total prize money, with winners and their school or university receiving the same amount.

“A record number of entrants produced a record number of entries this year. Well done to all the students and special congratulations to all the

winners,” VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, said.

In addition to the design, model and essay category prizes, this year, new presentations were introduced. All shortlisted secondary student entrants were invited to an automotive design master class at both Monash University and RMIT and Ford Australia selected two secondary students to experience the world class facilities at the Ford Design Centre.

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QA

MTA &

MT: It’s an interesting industry for you to be in, what motivated you to be involved in the smash repair business?

BG: To be honest I married into it but found that I fell in love with the industry and had a real passion for it. As my ex husband and I had separated and sold our joint business, I purchased this business in 2011 after the sad passing of Mark McHugh. My son had been working for Mark so when it was presented to me for sale, and since I was looking for a future for Chris and myself, I took the opportunity and haven’t looked back.

MT: How long have you been in the industry?

BG: I started in 1992, so I’m celebrating my 21st year this year. I left school at 14 and entered the workforce straight away, and I’m really excited, because I’m presently studying a business management course through MTAQ, and it will be the first qualification I’ve ever had in my life. In fact three of us are doing it, Chris, Shane and myself.

MT: You obviously have a family feel to this business and you have picked up some awards, what do you think is the reason behind your success?

Brenda and Chris Gosney

BG: We do a have a family affair, my PA Diane has been working with me for eleven years, and when I decided to move here Diane came with me. It’s

Born and bred Gold Coaster Brenda Gosney is the owner of Mark McHugh Body Works at Bundall, her son Chris is the manager and they have a staff of 14. The mother-son combination has picked up a couple of awards since taking over in 2011, and continues the quality the company’s founder established. lovely because Diane has seen Chris grow up as well, from a young boy to now the manager of the business.

And as for our success, I put it down to hard work and passion. This business was awarded best small shop of the year in 2010 when Mark had it and then we took it out again in 2012. It was great to maintain the quality because there was some apprehension from within the insurance industry and previous clients when I first took over because I am one of the only females to own a panel shop outright, but now they are all blown away by how well we’re doing.

I don’t know anything about repairing cars myself, but I have a fantastic team out there that do.

MT: There is a lot of talk at the moment about the approved repairer system in the industry, what are your thoughts on it?

BG: We are experiencing tough and challenging times. I am a Suncorp Approved Repairer and I can see there will be a decrease in the number of approved repairers with the changes being implemented. I think a lot of repairers have to change their attitudes.

We need people who are positive and who are willing to change with the industry, those who have initiative and are keen for training. Customers are more demanding now and we have to rise to that level of customer care, so if you’re not passionate about it, find something else. You also have to be

“We don’t want to be the biggest, we just want to be the best. Keep it as a family business where we can offer quality repairs and quality service.” prepared to invest in what the industry requires, it’s not like it was 20 years ago, there are so many new factors including how cars are manufactured from the factory, and we have to stay ahead of the technology and adapt.

MT: What are your plans for the future of the business?

BG: We don’t want to be the biggest, we just want to be the best. Keep it as a family business where we can offer quality repairs and quality service. I guess I have made it a more female friendly shop, given it the feminine touch and it really helps with our female clients, they love it. I’ve taken my experience from working in hospitality and brought it to this business. I do the marketing and accounting. Ultimately I would like to take a backseat and have Chris take over even more. A few fantastic people within the industry, from our paint supply company to another panel shop owner have been

mentoring Chris as it’s been a big step for him to come off the workshop floor and step into an estimating and management role, but he has done a fantastic job and I am very proud of him. He worked with Mark for 12 months and what he learnt from him was so valuable, he was very knowledgeable about the industry and passed on some of that to Chris.

MT: The Coast has been doing it tough over the last few years. How has the economy affected you?

BG: Fortunately this was a wellestablished business, it’s been here for a long, long time, and there has been a smash repair business on this site since the seventies. I decided to stay with the name Mark McHugh Body Works as a mark of respect to Mark, and I’m still very close with his mum. And the name is so well known on the Coast. We are also finding that as people are realising I have this shop, we are getting more and more old customers from the previous business coming here.

MT: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from the shop?

BG: I have lots of interests. I have horses that I keep at a friend’s house north of Brisbane, and I love playing golf. I try and get out nearly every weekend for a round of golf, but I don’t get out nearly as much as I’d like to on the horses.

I live near a golf course, so it’s really easy for me.

July 2013 Motor Trader | 9

THE

ORIGINAL Richard Hammond

Top Gear has a truly global audience and Richard Hammond, also known as the ‘Hamster’ is everywhere.

He spoke recently to Motor Trader

10 | Motor Trader July 2013

T

he notion that — because of the wildly successful licensing of the Top Gear show — there are other versions of Richard Hammond scattered around the globe, is a terrifying one. And not just for motoring fans.

“It may scare others but it petrifies me,” the 43-year-old admits. This is the UK Richard Hammond, or as he likes to be known, “The Original”. Of course, speaking to an Australian magazine obviously leads our conversation to move on to Shane Jacobson, Ewen Page and Steve Pizzati, but ‘The Original’ is keen to distance himself from comparisons.

“At the end of the day we have a hugely successful show that unites motorists from all around the world. Yes it’s funny seeing a Russian equivalent of James May — funnier than the actual James May, in fact — but ultimately what we’re

“Aussie audiences are

knowledgeable and great fun.

They totally get what we do, and they give a bit back as well, which is great.”

talking about is celebrating the art of driving, and that’s a magnificent thing, something we should all be proud of.”

Where the show’s success is concerned, it certainly is a celebration — exported to over 200 countries and watched by 300 million people. The numbers are mind-boggling, but does it bring about certain problems.

“Well, yes — everyone is your friend,” Hammond laughs.

“At 4am in Damascus, the locals want you out of bed.

They fancy a conversation about catalytic converters! You also discover you’re supposed to possess a deep knowledge of every car — new and old — that rolls around on planet Earth. That can be particularly tricky in some places where you can’t even pronounce the name of the model, let alone pretend you’ve driven it.”

Surely this can’t be a problem in the Southern Hemisphere though? The demands of drivers here compared to the UK are largely the same, after all.

“Well I actually have those Australian Top Gear cohorts to thank for giving me a taste of what Holden bring to the party these days. They’ve had some gorgeous models of old — and some decidedly dodgy ones — but when we did our Ashes Special they brought along a Maloo R8, and that’s a mean machine if ever I saw one.

“In the past, when I’ve thought of Holden I’ve envisaged

July 2013 Motor Trader | 11

TOP FEAR

Top Gear presenter Richard Hammond was travelling in a jet-powered Vampire dragster in 2006 when a burst tyre saw him career off an airstrip in York, England, at 463kmh.

“It was the very darkest period of my life. I think about it still, even now.

“I think too how I have no recollection of almost 12 months of my life – there are chat shows I did that are completely missing in my memory. It was a very strange time, and very worrying.

“When you have a brain injury it consumes everything you do and think. Your brain is the one asking itself if the brain is okay, when it’s probably not in a position to judge... or even to ask that question! Every single thing I said and did became the subject of my own questioning.

“Sometimes you think surviving is the achievement, and I guess in many ways it is. But rebuilding your life and your confidence after that is actually more important.

“Did I forget to show speed respect? I don’t think I did, but I will now ensure I take extra time to weigh up the risk. If it’s acceptable and manageable then I’ll do it. I’m quite a cautious bloke by nature, nothing’s changed there. And I wouldn’t be as mildly adventurous as I was before, that’s a given, because I knew I’d learned in the most, graphic, miserable way possible that things can go wrong.

“And yes, all experiences change you, but when you’re that close to death, nothing is ever the same again. It’s now there, a part of my life, and I am the sum of my life, aren’t I? So I’ve accepted it, but it slowed me down for a while... as well as my driving!” the Commodore of the 1980s. Over in the UK we knew that as the Opel, and it was dreadful. Evidently it’s been through a few redesigns, because the new Commodore is a beauty. And yes, fair enough, you only have to look at the classic beauty of the HQ, or the modern style of HSV Gen-F, to realise what a special manufacturer they are.

“I’d also kill to get behind the wheel of a 1972 Valiant Charger E49. The light display on the back is unruly — awesome.”

Can we lure him back across here for an extended stay?

There was talk, at one point, of stable mate Jeremy Clarkson presenting episodes of the Australian Top Gear, after all.

Could Hammond be tempted?

“Definitely, it’s an incredible place, and I’ve simply not spent enough time there. For all the ridiculously remote, or for that matter ridiculously populated, places we’ve been sent

12 | Motor Trader July 2013

to, we’ve maybe not done enough in Australia. Perhaps I’d rather leave Clarkson and May back home and bring the wife and kids instead though — would that be okay?!”

He’d certainly have few complaints from better half Mindy and daughters, Izzy, 14, and Willow, 10, and Hammond’s ‘Dad appeal’ has never been higher since he, Clarkson and May were immortalised in Disney Channel Australia favourites Phineas & Ferb.

“That’s life, isn’t it? They are not impressed by fancy cars or motorcycles or me flying a helicopter or any of the things I like doing, but turn me into a few pixels and I’m the coolest person they know,” he laughs.

At least, when on the subject of motoring, he can at least draw in some appreciation from the Australian public.

“Aussie audiences are knowledgeable and great fun.

They totally get what we do, and they give a bit back as well, which is great.

“What I love about the relationship between Aussies and the English — and this was borne out in the Ashes Special that we did, is that as much as we try not to like each other, there is ultimately an intense respect. It’s a bit like the way Clarkson, May and I treat one another. We’ll do all we can to make each others’ lives as miserable as possible when we’re on one of our road trips, but the split second anyone is in trouble, we’re straight over there pulling them out of a ditch or mending a failed suspension... unless it’s May, actually, in which case we’ll leave him stranded for a good while before begrudgingly going to help.

“And I guess I’m grateful that the Aussie motoring audiences are definitely more forgiving than the cricket-loving types!”.

Now Available The Original & Genuine ‘American Racing ’ Wheels

VENTURA

FUEL

AR898

DAGGER

AR897

AR890

American Racing wheels have landed in Australia and are now available in a wide range of 4WD, Hot Rod and Vintage styles

W

hen you stock the genuine American Racing wheels you’re selling one of the most iconic wheel brands in the world today.

The makings of an American Icon The American Racing Wheel brand is steeped in history and still prides itself on the mission that began in a San Francisco shop nearly 60 years ago today. In 1962, American Racing introduced the first aftermarket all-alloy wheel – the Torq Thrust which today is arguably the most recognised wheel design in the world and what would become responsible for launching the custom wheel industry.

In the late 1960’s, the American Racing Torq Thrust Wheel appeared on Steve McQueen’s 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 Fastback in the classic thriller ‘Bullitt’. In the late 1970’s, American Racing featured again in the hit TV Series ‘The Dukes of Hazzard’. The iconic ‘General The General Lee - Vector Lee’ Dodge Charger rode on American Racing Vector wheels which would also feature on the A-Team’s black GMC Vandura.

Bullitt - Torq Thrust D The American Racing brand’s iconic status was recognised in 2007 when Hot Rod Magazine named the Torq Thrust Wheel, originally designed some 50 years earlier, as one of the “10 most significant speed parts of all time.”

Why sell the American Racing Wheels? Here’s 4 reasons: 1. American Racing wheels give you access to a wide range of today’s hottest American designed styles on the market for your showroom. Styles are available in fitments to suit all common 4WD’s and SUV’s in Australia as well as a comprehensive ‘Vintage’ and ‘Hot Rod’ range featuring custom backspaces.

2. American Racing Wheels offer styles with the unique PVD Chrome (Physical Vapour Deposition) a process originally developed for the space program. Finally a finish that’s made to last, PVD offers you a point of difference that other wheels don’t have which is more durable than conventional chrome in many ways.

AR897 in PVD Chrome

3. American Racing Wheels are American designed with ‘Higher Load Ratings’ and manufactured to the highest tolerances in the industry to ensure there are no compromises on performance.

4. American Racing Wheels offer on all 2-piece ‘Vintage’ and ‘Hot Rod’ styles the new ‘Custom Shop’ which allows you to offer a different combination of custom paint finishes.

5. You’re selling a genuine brand that has been built for over 60 years with a rich heritage; American Racing is here to stay.

The American Racing brand is available exclusively through 4x4 Wheel Co. For more information about fitments on the 4WD, SUV, VINTAGE or HOT ROD range, visit www.americanracingwheels.com.au or call the wheel experts on:

(07) 3212 0914

Motorsport

VOLVO READY FOR A V8 CHALLENGE V

olvo is prepared for some nationally televised “pitfalls” as its S60 V8 Supercars develop in 2014, but it is also confident the long term benefits of its new racing program will outweigh any hiccups.

After paying close attention to the ups and downs of Nissan Motorsport and Erebus Motorsport V8 in 2013, it is hoping Volvo Polestar Racing can avoid some of the pitfalls that can trip up new players.

“Without doubt, going into this situation you could not expect not to see some form of exposure like that,” Volvo Car Australia managing director Matt Braid told v8supercars.com.au.

“We are well aware that if we struggle then the whole world is going to see it.

“However, that is part of the game.

“We will have some pitfalls along the way I’m sure as well, technically and on the track and we expect that.”

Encouragingly however, all four makes raced in the top 10 at last month’s Skycity Triple Crown in Darwin, with Benz drivers Tim Slade

finishing sixth and Maro Engel ninth in different races.

“One advantage we have had over the other manufacturers is being able to watch them in the early stages and where possible we have been able to take some pointers and learn some lessons and say ok how do we adopt that and avoid that potentially happening to us,” Braid explained.

Polestar is already well advanced developing a 5.0-litre racing version of Volvo’s B8444S 4.4-litre V8. At the same time GRM is heavily into the chassis build, body panel design and aerodynamic package development.

The first S60 is scheduled to test in early December and the two-car GRM, Fujitsu and Valvoline backed team will race for the first time at the Clipsal 500 next year.

Motorsport Calendar V8 SUPERCARS July 5-7: Rd 7, Sucrogen Townsville 400, Townsville July 26-28: Rd 8, Coates Hire, Ipswich 360. Queensland Raceway Aug 23-26: Rd 9, Winton 360, Winton Motor Raceway, Victoria

FORMULA 1 July 5-7: Rd 9, German Grand Prix, Nurburgring July 26-28: Rd 10, Hungarian Grand Prix, Budapest Aug 23-25: Rd 11, Belgian Grand Prix, Spa-Francorchamps

July 27-28: Rd 20, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Aug 3-4: Rd 21, Pocono Raceway Aug 10-11: Rd 22, Watkins Glen

INDYCAR July 6-7: Rd 10, IndyCar 400 Pocono, Pennsylvania July 13-14: Rd 11, Honda Indy Toronto, Canada Aug 3-4: Rd 12, Honda Indy 200, Lexington, Ohio

DRAGS

MOTO GP

July 20-21: Aeroflow Sportsman Drag Racing CShips, Benaraby

July 14: Rd 8, Grand Prix of Germany, Sachsenring, Germany July 21: Rd 9, Grand Prix of the United States, Laguna Seca Aug 18: Rd 10, Grand Prix of Indianapolis, Indianapolis

KARTING

WRC

July 27-28: Rd 4, Eastern Creek, NSW

PORSCHE CARRERA CUP

August 1-3: Rd 8, Neste Oil Rally Finland.

July 05-07: Rd 4, Sucrogen Townsville 400, Townsville Aug 23-25: Rd 5, Winton, Victoria

NASCAR

WORLD SUPERBIKE CHAMPIONSHIPS

July 5-6: Rd 18, Daytona International Speedway July 13-14: Rd 19, Loudon

July 21: Rd 8, Moscow, Russia Aug 4: Rd 9, Silverstone, UK

14 | Motor Trader July 2013

Road test

Sporty looks with a luxury feel Suzuki’s mid-size Kizashi sedan offers a stylish alternative to Japanese competitors

A

s you walk towards the Suzuki Kizashi Prestige, you can’t help but admire its sweeping curves, and squat rear end.

This is an attractive and distinctive looking sedan from the Japanese marque, the first mid-size car they have produced for Australia.

Billed as a luxury sport sedan, the Kizashi definitely has the looks and the outrageous exhausts, which are modeled on Suzkui’s sport bike designs, are a constant talking point for fellow motorists.

The front end with black mesh grill and low driving lights hint at a European design.

The 18-inch alloy wheels fill the arches well, giving it a sure-footed appearance, and the bulges give it an aggressive edge, it’s by no means long and lean, but it has an air of compact energy, like a nimble half-back in footy terms, quick to find a gap, burst through and score a try.

And the same can be said for the driving experience.

Driving it for over a week the Kizashi was comfortable on the daily M1 commute, and is a good touring sedan but really comes into it’s own when navigating the myriad of roadworks encountered all over Southeast Queensland.

Powered by a 2.4 litre 4-cylinder engine developed especially for the Kizashi, and paired with either a 6-speed manual or Continuously Variable Transmission with paddle shift, it produces 131kW at 6500rpm and 230Nm. The test vehicle included the CVT and although it did an admirable job getting power to the front wheels, it felt punchier

and more responsive using the paddle shift, especially when you wanted more power control on Hinterland curves.

The drive is very smooth and quiet, with good braking and handling making it an easy car to operate; I would love to experience the AWD of the Sport version, which should take it to another level.

The Prestige label works well on this little car and had me thinking that luxury was more a selling point than sport, with leather interior throughout, Bluetooth, SatNav, climate control, reversing camera, 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry and push start system.

The Bluetooth is particularly easy to set up and use and the interior is

very well finished with a minimalist design.

It’s not a flashy cabin, but it is comfortable and the sweeping symmetrical brushed aluminium accents surrounding the centre console complete a stylish package.

With a five-star ANCAP safety rating, it has ABS, front, side and curtain airbags and a knee bag for the driver and stability and traction control are standard.

All up the Kizashi Prestige offers a stylish alternative to some of the other Japanese cars in this market, and well worth consideration.

The Kizashi range includes a Touring ($28,490), Prestige ($34,990) and top-of-the-range AWD Sport ($39,990).

July 2013 Motor Trader | 15

FX SPECIAL

E

very time Steve Jeffs gets close to the end of a straight in his 1953 Holden FX Group Nb historic touring car, he is reminded of the fact that he has four drum brakes as his right foot hits the pedal looking for an anchor.

But that is all part of the fun for Steve, from Bob Jane T-Marts Toombul, when he gets the old FX out on a racetrack and takes part in historic touring car action.

With his two sons Michael and Daniel as his pit crew, the Jeffs’ family regularly takes the car on race weekends, from nearby Queensland Raceway where Steve competed in the Two Days of Thunder last month to as far away as Eastern Creek, where the main photo on this page was taken.

“The boys helped me restore the car when we first got it,” said Steve.

“We stripped it all back and built it back up and we did it all at home, even the paint job.”

“It’s been a great family project to do with them, it teaches purpose, focus, commitment and extends their mechanical skills as well, and very rewarding when you get to take it out for the weekend.”

Michael and Daniel are both keen to get behind the wheel one day and Steve is only happy for them to.

It’s the first time Steve has raced and after getting his CAMS license he loves it.

“It’s been a steep learning curve, I concentrated on safety, braking and handling first and speed second,” said Steve.

“It’s just a hobby, a great way to get out and do something with my sons and have a laugh with a terrific bunch of guys in the Group N racing fraternity.”

The Holden FX, or 48-215 as it is more correctly known, was the first mass-produced six-seater car produced in Australia. It continued production between 1948 and 1953

16 | Motor Trader July 2013

and was the first model to bear the Holden name.

Originally designed in the US by Chevrolet, it was not used because it was deemed too small for the US market.

Instead the design became the basis of the 48-215 model.

At the time, the FX had to compete with 4 cylinder British cars as well as many American vehicles, so an Australian car was a welcome sight, especially by government and businesses who snapped them up like hot cakes to replace their pre-war American fleets.

The 2.17 litre, 6-cylinder engine that powered the FX was later referred to as a grey motor due to its colour.

Steve’s FX still has the grey motor, the original 3-speed column shift and front bench seats, but it has also been modified for competition with a roll cage and six-point racing harness, and with modifications to the mechanics it now produces 160hp as opposed to the original 60hp, again an exciting prospect with drum brakes.

When it came time for the paint job, Steve stayed true to the

Make: HOLDEN Model: FX (48-215) Year: 1953 Engine: 6-cylinder 138 Transmission: 3-speed column Owned: 5 YEARS, Steve Jeffs

era of the original car with a dark grey exterior and a red interior.

“I wanted to keep it pretty authentic, the cream racing stripes came later to make it go faster.”

The original car was in pretty good condition and had been stored under a house by the son of the previous owner who had passed away.

“I have always been a Holden fan and when I saw this one I knew it was right,” said Steve.

“It’s part of our family now, and I would love to see it stay with us for a long time yet. I’m so lucky to have a supportive family, my wife Leanne was very patient while we were restoring the FX, if it wasn’t for her and the boys it wouldn’t have happened.”

After the restoration it was officially recognised as a CAMS Logged Booked Goup Nb Historic Racing Car and it’s definitely being put to good use now.

Steve intends to take part in race meets at Morgan Park

Do you have a pride and joy in the garage that you would love to see in the pages of Motor Trader?

Contact Bill Key at billk@mtaq.com.au or 07 3237 8721 and let’s see if we can share your classic with other members.

and Lakeside this month and travel to Eastern Creek again later in the year for the Father’s Day weekend of racing, where history comes alive with a giant collection of old race cars, including the original Holden and Ford models that started the great rivalry in Australian motorsport.

July 2013 Motor Trader | 17

give yourself an Technical Information Service Your MTA Queensland membership gives you access to a vast technical library.

Industrial Relations As a member of MTA Queensland you have access to industry-specific industrial relations advice and representation.

Consumer Complaints MTA Queensland will assist member businesses and facilitate in the event of consumer complaints.

Legal Advice Members can access professional legal assistance as part of their membership of MTA Queensland.

Industry Awareness Members receive regular industry specific publications to keep you abreast of changes, legislative requirements, developments and initiatives in your industry.

• The MTA Queensland logo provides an element of differentiation between you and other businesses and may just form the key point of difference for a potential customer.

Save with our Corporate Partners

The Capricorn Society is the largest independent automotive cooperative in Australia. Members benefit through group purchasing to secure price advantage.

Dun and Bradstreet is the nation’s foremost credit control and debt collection agency. Members are eligible for substantial savings on annual subscriptions.

The Commonwealth Bank offers members some of the lowest EFTPOS charges in the country. Members have saved thousands with CBA.

MTAA Superannuation is the industry’s superfund. Our superannuation partner has over 200,000 members who enjoy excellent service and returns.

Staples is the leading supplier of a complete range of office consumables, bulk stationery and janitorial supplies.

• Being a Member gives you input in the future productivity and profitability of your industry and the opportunity to positively influence it’s future through divisional and regional committees.

NRMA Insurance has vast experience in the provision of specialist insurance services to the automotive industry. Using the buying power of the member base, NRMA can achieve pricing far more attractive than business owners can negotiate individually.

MTA Queensland, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113 | 07 3237 8777 | info@mtaq.com.au | www.mtaq.com.au

20120064

• MTA Queensland actively lobbies Governments with the best interest of our members to reduce red tape and streamline process for business owners.

ESSENTIALS Contents 20 Divisional news 21 Training matters

MIT student makes finals

Brett is top trainee 22 Training for industry by industry

named DAF Dealer of the Year for 2010 and 2011.

Speaking at PACCAR Australia’s annual dealer event, Managing Director Mike Dozier praised the dealership’s high standards of customer service and the Brown & Hurley Group’s impressive performance over many years.

“In just a handful of years, Brown & Hurley Yatala has made a major impact on the industry – both in terms of its professional conduct and as one of the top sales performers, particularly over the past three years,” Mike said.

“The Kenworth Dealer of the Year award is not about who sells the most trucks, but which dealer provides the best overall performance for the

25 Industrial relations 26 Member profiles

East Coast Commercials Hi-Tech Radiators Nova Ford

Mike Dozier, Managing Director Paccar Australia and Paul Hurley, Dealer Principal Brown & Hurley Yatala

July 2013 Motor Trader | 19

E S S E N T I A L S

MEMBERS

gainst a field of more than 25 top dealers across Australasia, MTAQ members Brown & Hurley Yatala have been crowned Kenworth Dealer of the Year 2012 for outstanding sales, service and support.

The Kenworth accolade is widely regarded as the industry’s most coveted prize for dealers. It acknowledges excellence in overall dealer performance, truck sales, parts sales, finance and customer support.

This is the first time the fiveyear-old dealership has won the highest Kenworth award, but it is an unprecedented 13 times for the Brown & Hurley Group, PACCAR Australia’s oldest dealer group. Yatala was also

M E M B E R S

brown and hurley grab a record win A

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Members matters customer. Like all the dealerships in the group, Brown & Hurley Yatala continues to be successful because of its single-minded commitment to customers. The branch’s facilities are among the finest in the country, and they’re complemented by a team of sales, service and support professionals. This is all part of Yatala’s dedication to ensuring the best customer outcomes – and it’s an admirable trait found in all Kenworth dealers,” Mike added.

Dealer Principal Paul Hurley said it was a great honour to be recognised with such a prestigious award from the industry leader.

“It is most gratifying to be acknowledged as the Kenworth Dealer of the Year. Our staff work tirelessly to ensure every customer is completely satisfied in every area of our business,” said Paul.

Established in 2008 and located midway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Brown & Hurley Yatala’s territory extends south to Tweed Heads

on the NSW border, west to Beaudesert and north to the Brisbane airport.

The dealership displays the full range of DAF and Kenworth models in various configurations. It also has a large ALLRig parts and accessories supermarket with $1.8 million in stock, and comfortable customer amenities.

The workshop features 26 service bays; 24 of which are B double drive-through pits, and boasts the latest diagnostic and repair equipment. In addition, the dealership offers a 24/7 breakdown repair and parts service throughout the region.

The Yatala branch experienced strong demand for all Kenworth models, from owner-drivers, to small and large fleet operators throughout 2012. Their best-sellers were the T359 and T403 for local distribution.

“Kenworth’s trucks are, without question, the best on the market,” Paul said. “They are built in Australia for Australia’s harshest environments, and they can be custom engineered for unique and challenging applications.

We are successful because we complement these quality products with exemplary service and support,” Paul explained.

“We make it easy for customers to do business with us. We have a full range of truck models, genuine parts and quality accessories on hand at all times, so we can help customers with whatever they need whenever they need it.

“All of our staff in each department work together as a team. This way every customer has a uniform, satisfying experience – whether they are purchasing a new truck, having it serviced or buying spare parts. No matter if it’s an owner-driver or a large fleet operator, we treat all of our customers equally and efficiently,” said Paul.

In addition to winning Kenworth Dealer of the Year, Brown & Hurley’s youngest dealership also won the DAF Service and Parts Dealer of the Year awards for 2012.

Divisional news Service Station and Convenience Store Association of Queensland

The Committee discussed the viability of a program leading to the widespread application of anti-theft screws on vehicle registration plates.

This was suggested as means of combating the spike in fuel theft and to make detection and punishment of such offences easier. The issue will be discussed further with the AADA committee at its next meeting.

Also discussed were the problems around the response rate of Police after fuel theft and other theft was reported to the Policelink system. MTAQ will contact the QPS to find out what the expected response rate is for Policelink reports.

The Committee asked whether or not it is compulsory for fuel distributors to pass on temperature corrections and what legislation this appears in? MTAQ will research the 20 | Motor Trader July 2013

issue further out-of-session.

Ongoing issues included price boards, competition threats posed by large retail players in the sector and industrial relations issues.

Engine Reconditioners Association Queensland

We have postponed our last meeting due to a number of reasons, lack of agenda items and the declining number of attendees, but we are working hard to move ahead with some ideas beneficial to our members, that will hopefully encourage a lot more members to attend meetings.

The decline in the value of the Australian Dollar will have a positive impact on the amount of work available, as prices of imports will increase making local work more attractive and the decline in the mining industry will see a large number of tradesmen looking for jobs

Automotive Engineers Division

Safety certificate pricing is still high on the agenda, and we are hoping for some finality in relation to this issue, which we will distribute as soon as we have the relevant information.

We are going to be holding member meetings in rural areas in the coming months, with the first to be held in Toowoomba in late July. Exact dates will be advised shortly.

Charlie Serchen and I will be attending a national meeting of AARA in Sydney next month where a number of national issues will be raised.

National Auto Collision Alliance

We have distributed a lot of information over the past few weeks. We are at a time in the industry where it can take control of its own destiny. There is a

Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year.

Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek announced the 161 finalists in the Queensland regional finals of the 52nd Queensland Training Awards.

“Finalists were selected from more than 600 entries across a range of industries,” said Mr Langbroek

Brett is top trainee

“His attitude to work and fellow staff is excellent and his encouragement of other staff is first rate,” said Mr Pietzner.

Coming from a farming background, Brett encourages customers to support his workplace when he’s back home and is never afraid to ask for help from all quarters to improve his knowledge of the industry.

“Brett’s natural attitude to do the best for customer, company and the greater community is what sets him apart,” said Steve Emmert, Brett’s manager at Vanderfield John Deere in Mackay.

MTA Institute of Technology (MIT) student Andrew Clifford has made the finals of the QLD Training awards, being nominated in the Darling Downs South West region for the Harry

Brett Simpson was awarded MIT’s student of the month for May. “Brett has shown outstanding performance since day one of his apprenticeship and he is now one of our top field technicians,” said MIT trainer Roy Pietzner.

Brett has a real passion for both his trade of diesel fitting and the products he works on, and likes nothing more than to challenge himself with the new technology.

lot going on at the moment, with the code of conduct, eMTA, shop grading and the normal day-to-day running of businesses.

We have presented our code of conduct sessions in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Townsville and Mackay over the last month and have had well over 100 repairers at these sessions.

Graham from eMTA, Gavin from Auto Body Shop Consultants and Rod from Auto Quote also presented at our North Qld sessions and the response has been great.

It is imperative that the body repairers have an understanding of what is going on within their businesses as the landscape is changing and changing fast.

Used Car Division

At the last meeting Chairman Daryll Searle announced he will not be nominating for the committee due to other commitments. Daryll has chaired

the Used Car Division since 2007 and has worked closely with stakeholders to identify industry challenges and help the used car industry achieve positive outcomes. MTA Queensland thanks Daryll and wishes him all the very best in his future endeavours.

This year the UCD committee is up for election. As part of this process, the electoral commission recently called for nominations for committee positions and this phase of the process has now closed. Voting for the Positions of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary will be the next phase of this process.

Next UCD Meeting will be the AGM scheduled for August 28th 2013.

The newly elected committe will be announced and take effect.

Tyre and Undercar Division of Queensland

Meeting scheduled for 24th June was cancelled.

Andrew has previously received MIT Student of the Month and Honda State Apprentice.

Individual winners from the region and will vie for state awards to be announced in September.

The State’s best will compete at the Australian Training Awards in Perth in November.

Brett Simpson

Tyre and Undercar member survey is continuing. Divisional Executive, Cameron Carter, will be speaking with all members to identify industry challenges and when completed will pass on his findings to the committee.

Chairman for the TUDQ committee, John Ruddick and Cameron Carter, will attend the Australian Tyre Dealers Retail Association (ATDRA) conference in Melbourne on July 1st.

Agenda will include topics such as the Waste Tyre Stewardship Programme and the National Green Stamp Program.

Outcomes of this meeting will be discussed at the next TUDQ meeting.

Members who would like more information on the Tyre Stewardship program or the Green Stamp Accreditation process, Please call Cameron Carter on 0417 754 727.

Next TUDQ Meeting will be the AGM scheduled for September 9th 2013.

July 2013 Motor Trader | 21

E S S E N T I A L S

MIT student makes finals

M E M B E R S

Training matters

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Training matters

Training for industry by TRAINING FOR INDUSTRY,

BY INDUSTRY

We work closely with more than 2000 MTAQ members to find out the industry trends that are important right now and incorporate this knowledge into our training.

It means that our training evolves with the industry so your apprentices are trained with current technology practices.

IT COSTS YOU NOTHING

At MIT your students will train at a worldclass facility, using state-of-the-art tools and equipment, with the very best trainers in their field, at no extra cost to you. Because automotive is a priority industry, the cost of training is covered by Government subsidies. Government subsidies apply for travel and accommodation.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Institutional training is a great way to learn, but keeps apprentices out of the workplace.

On-site training is convenient but can be less comprehensive. We have taken the best bits out of each approach to create a flexible training model, which ensures students get the best possible training experience, while minimising the inconvenience for you. Our students train in blocks of two weeks at the world-class Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence on the M1 near Springwood. Alternatively, our training is done on-site at your workshop so your trainees can keep working while they learn.

YOU’RE IN CONTROL

Our trainers work closely with you to develop a tailored training plan before the student picks up their tools. We ask you how you’d like the training delivered and incorporate any special training requirements your trainees need to be effective in your business. Plus we provide immediate feedback about your student’s progress, so you stay in the loop every step of the way.

TRAINERS WITH REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE

Our trainers are recruited from industry, not the classroom, so they know what they’re talking about. MIT employs more than 30 trainers based around Queensland from the Gold Coast to Cairns, Toowoomba and Mt Isa. Our trainers have a combined total of 450 years post-trade qualification experience. And because our trainers look after fewer students, they will always be available to provide their expert assistance and advice – to both you and your trainee.

Call us on 3722 3000 or email training@mtaq.com.au for more information on how you can benefit from MTA Institute of Technology training.

22 | Motor Trader July 2013

Real world conditions: The facility has been designed to simulate a typical service and repair workshop found commonly within the industry. All equipment has been chosen to meet a criteria that enables best training practice.

The MIT training facility is aligned to industry leading companies such as PPG, Dupont and 3M.

Festool Dust Extraction System: Latest environmental and safety standard vacuum extraction system for sanding.

Bosch FSA500 Vehicle System Analysis:

Air Conditioning repairs:

State-of-the-art modern tuning machine, with integrated ignition and engine management systems.

Manual and fully automated machines for servicing, repair, diagnostic and refilling of A/C units. All trainers are A/C licensed.

Bosch FSA50 DIAGNOSTIC SCAN TOOL: The new diagnostics module for testing onboard computer systems. The hand-held device can be linked wirelessly to the PC system.

M E M B E R S

industry

The MTA Institute of Technology (MIT) is part of MTA Queensland, the peak industry body representing the automotive industry. Our acclaimed onsite training model makes it easier for employers to manage the training process and enables better learning outcomes for trainees.

E S S E N T I A L S

All New Welding Station:

Car-O-Liner:

Ideally designed for optimum educational purposes featuring the latest state-of-the-art welders.

A universal collision repair system this fully digital chassis alignment and measuring unit is for major structural repairs. Plus a smaller speed bench for smaller repairs.

Paint Mixing and Spraying Booths: Latest technology in both solvent based and waterborne paint mixing and spraying.

Beissbarth Wheel Aligner:

Gas-Fired Infra Red Curing Booth:

This high-end 3D unit is industry leading technology that eliminates the guess work assosciated with wheel aligning, and is perfect for student education.

The latest fully automated technology for paint curing. It is the most effecient way to cure paint and has become a leader in the industry.

Beissbarth Tyre Balancing and Fitting Machines: Latest technology exposing students to industry standard machines, with large screens for added training benefits.

State-Of-The-Art Classrooms: Equipped with electronic whiteboards, projection cameras and a computer lab training room ideal for theory-based training.

Onsite Parking and Lunchroom Facilities: Free parking in the facilities grounds and a fully equiped kitchen and lunchroom with outdoor dining area and BBQ.

Safety and Environment: The facility has been designed to optimise environmental protection and safety.

Queensland’s Largest Agricultural Field Days • Toowoomba – 3-5 September 2013

EXHIBITOR NEWSLETTER

Ag Show is on track to present a great event.

ISSUE 2 JUNE 2013

In late 2012, the Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland assumed management of Ag Show following the retirement of Peter Erwin.

The societies original charter from 1860 is the promotion of agricultural excellence.

After more than 150 years, that vision has not changed and even more so lends itself to the continued growth and development of Ag Show.

those from the desired demographic.

We have reduced the gate entry fee from $8 to $5. All exhibitors will also be sent a personalized invitation whereas they can email to their client databases allowing complimentary access to your customers,

The Ag Show board understands the need for the event to become more industry driven. As such we have formed strategic alliances with the Queensland Government, Ag force, University of Southern Queensland and the Toowoomba and Surat Basin Enterprise amongst others to deliver real benefits to both our exhibitors and patrons who support the event.

To ensure Ag Show becomes a must attend event we will also launch a Seminar Series.

Such informative networking topics will include Food and the Resource Sector Plate, Export Opportunities, Careers in Ag, Innovation in the Horticulture Sector and Workforce Solutions. We will also stage a number of Innovation Stations and relaunch Ag Ed – The Classroom without Walls.

We have received very strong enquiry for this years event which will be held from the 3rd to the 5th September.

It is important that as an industry we contribute to the education of our young people and the vital need for food security.

❝

We have received very strong enquiry for this years event which will be held from the 3rd to the 5th September.

At this stage approximately 70% of the site has been sold with limited sites available in Northern Park, Founders Pavilion, Berghofer Pavilion and Central Park.

Other areas are also filling fast.

We have welcomed a large number of new exhibitors who see the benefits of attending Queensland’s largest agricultural field days.

Over the last few years we have seen a slight decline in attendance at Ag Show, and understand the importance of growing not only the number of patrons but also

❞

It is also imperative to ensure the next generation understand that there are many opportunities to forge a career in agriculture.

If you would like further details on how you can be involved and benefit from Ag Show please call me on 07 4634 7400 or email rasq-ceo@rasq.com.au.

You can also download a prospectus and site application form from our website www.agshow.com.au.

Until next time.

Damon Phillips

A ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY OF QUEENSLAND MANAGED EVENT For further information contact Damon Phillips, CEO, RASQ on 07 4634 7400 or email rasq-ceo@rasq.com.au

M E M B E R S

Industrial relations The Gazetted Public Holidays for 2013/14 Wednesday 14th August, 2013

Christmas Day

Wednesday 25th December, 2013

Labour Day

Boxing Day

New Year’s Day Australia Day Good Friday

Easter Saturday Easter Monday

Ted Kowalski Industrial Relations Manager

Anzac Day

Queen’s Birthday

Brisbane Show Day Labour Day

Christmas Day Boxing Day

Monday 7th October, 2013

Thursday 26th December, 2013 Wednesday 1st January, 2014 Monday 27th January, 2014 Friday 18th April, 2014

Saturday 19th April, 2014 Monday 21st April, 2014 Friday 25th April, 2014 Monday 9th June, 2014

Wednesday 13th August, 2014 Monday 6th October, 2014

Thursday 25th December, 2014 Friday 26th December, 2014

Note: The Queensland Government has indicated that it will declare a Public Holiday for Friday November 14th, 2014 for the G20 Leaders Summit, but that it will only apply to those who work in Brisbane.

This is to minimize the disruption to traffic which will be caused by the number of street closures while the Summit is being held. Actual implementation guidelines will be advised closer to the date.

Annual Wage Review Decision for 2013 handed down

The Fair Work Commission has completed its Annual Wage Review and has decided to increase all adult award wages by 2.6% from the first full pay period on or after 1st July 2013. The decision fell short of the $30 which the Unions had sought but was more than the $5 to $10 increase argued for by many employer groups.

The 2.6% increase represented an increase of $18.40 per week at the

trade level and took the tradesperson’s rate from $706.10 to $724.50 per week.

The Federal Minimum Wage for adult employees becomes $622.20 per week or $16.37 per hour.

2012/13 Weekly Tax Table remains unchanged for 2013/14

Members can continue to use the Weekly/Fortnightly Tax Tables supplied by the Tax Office which took effect from 1st July 2012 as there have been no changes to tax rates for 2013/14.

MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members Business Name

Principal/s

Address

Email

Division

Cooroy Smash Repairs

Thomas Lehmann

8 Jarrah Street, Cooroy Q 4563

tom@cooroysmashrepairs.com.au

NACA

Shannon Crash Repairs Pty Ltd

Damien Shannon

22 Hamill Street, Garbutt Q 4814

shannoncrash@bigpond.com

NACA

Ultra Tune Maryborough

Michael Miles

14 Rocky Street, MARYBOROUGH Q 4650

maryborough@ultratune.com.au

AED

Wholesale Car Parts Australia Pty Ltd

Gerard McElroy and Mark Lundin

7/594 Boundary Road, Archerfield Q 4108

gerry@wholesalecarparts.com.au

APRD

July 2013 Motor Trader | 25

E S S E N T I A L S

Brisbane Show Day

East Coast Commercials Location: 1151-1169 Beaudesert Road, Acacia Ridge

M E M B E R S

E S S E N T I A L S

Member profiles

Type of business: Used light commercials, 4WD’s, trucks & buses Number of employees: 70 Trading since: 1989 MTAQ member since: 1991

East Coast Commercials

Hi-Tech Radiators Location: 166 Boniface Street, Archerfield QLD 4108 Type of business: Radiator and air-conditioning repairs Number of employees: 8-10 Trading since: 1999 MTAQ member since: 2005

How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland?

(MTAQ) By reading magazines.

How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business?

Advice when we need it, latest wage information and new technical info on problems.

What has been your proudest business achievement to date?

Making it to 10 years in business and growing every year.

What is the best thing about working in your industry?

Learning new things every day.

What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given?

Be first in and last out and you’ll succeed and never look back.

What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ? Everyone needs to be in an organisation to receive advice and info.

Turning over $1m.

Nova Ford Location: 1 Spitfire Crescent, Caboolture Type of business: Franchise Dealer Number of employees: 35 Trading since: 2011 MTAQ member since: 2011

Nova Ford

26 | Motor Trader July 2013

What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ?

When I first started in the motor trade back in the early 80s the company I worked for was a member of MTAQ.

The opening of our purpose built premises on Beaudesert Road back in 1997.

That MTA QLD is our industry body where we can stand together and address issues affecting our industry. If we don’t join what have we got? Who do we go to?

How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business?

In many ways from legal advice, state award updates, stationery, keeping us abreast of the auctioneer agents and motor dealer Act changes, and MTAQ are a good forum to lobby the State Government on difficulties within our industry and being a member of MTA QLD gives you professional standing.

What is the best thing about working in your industry?

The buzz you get when we have happy customers.

What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given?

There is only one place where success comes before work and that’s in the dictionary.

Hi-Tech Radiators

How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland? (MTAQ) I have been aware of MTAQ through all of the dealerships I have worked in, so becoming a member when I purchased one was essential.

How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business?

The advice given with respect to legislation changes and our obligations as an employer is invaluable.

What has been your proudest business achievement to date?

Nova Automotive is a relatively new company trading as Nova Ford. In our first full 12 months of operation we achieved Ford’s outstanding sales performance award as well as excellence awards in service and parts.

What is the best thing about working in your industry?

Striving to be the best of the best in a very competitive market.

What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given?

Your staff are your greatest asset.

Grow them and they will be your best return on investment.

What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ? In this complex world that we live and work in, you must have trusted advice that you can believe in. For us it’s MTAQ.

July 2013 Motor Trader | 27

E S S E N T I A L S

What has been your proudest business achievement to date?

M E M B E R S

How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland? (MTAQ)

Keeping abreast Trekking for countless days across the Sahara and Simpson deserts, and crossing the Torres Strait using kite-power are all part of life for Gold Coast Vet and adventurer Geoff Wilson.

WORDS BILL KEY

T

his November Geoff Wilson is taking his adventures to a whole new level, and a different climate, as he sets out to cross the Antarctica, one of the planet’s toughest environments, alone and unassisted, using only skis and kite power to traverse the vast ice-covered continent, all the while towing his supplies behind him in a bright pink boobsled.

Yes, that’s right, a boobsled.

Named The Pink Polar Expedition, Geoff is attempting this grueling challenge with the hope of raising $1m for the McGrath Foundation and supporting the foundations objectives of increasing breast awareness in young women and raising money to place McGrath breast care nurses in communities across Australia.

And the boobsled is exactly that.

The state-of-the-art sled has a cover molded on Geoff’s wife’s own breasts and constructed from extremely strong but lightweight kevlar.

The weight of the kevlar is extremely important as this trek could take up to 80 days to complete, and every gram counts.

Every kilogram also counts at the moment for Geoff, as he attempts to pack on around 30kg in body weight, as this is the amount he can expect to lose during the trek.

Training for the event has been intense, and Geoff spent three weeks during March in minus 30-degree temperatures at the North Pole with Arctic explorer Matty McNair, and her children, fellow adventurers, Eric and Sarah.

They covered all manner of topics relating to navigation, survival, dealing with cold induced injuries, travel by ski, kite, dogsled, sleeping, cooking and survival systems.

“I’ll not forget Sarah’s lecture on frostbite injury, as she flashed up an image of some poor lad with frostbite of the penis,” said Geoff.

“It was an immediate attention grabber. We all took the temperatures and frost injury more seriously after that.”

“This was all part of it though, the sheer reality of what I was trying to undertake was sinking in.

Re-evaluation of goals, needs, wants, abilities and what could be achieved.

28 | Motor Trader July 2013

“I know I can do this, I’m pig-

headed, my physique is built for long, slow, grinding pain.”

“The McNairs had seen them all come and go, punters, pretenders, fakers and the ones that had the right stuff.

I prayed I could be the latter. I sucked it up, smiled and grunted through it all.”

Geoff’s motivation has come from his close friend and Queensland radio personality Kate Carlyle.

Kate was diagnosed with early stage breast cancer four years ago.

Thankfully, early detection meant treatment options were available. Five body and life-changing surgeries followed, including bilateral mastectomies and reconstruction. Those difficult decisions were made with confidence; statistics showed that the chances of a recurrence were less than two per cent.

In January last year, the unthinkable happened and Kate felt another lump. A second diagnosis of breast cancer brought with it another three surgeries, five months of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiotherapy. Kate’s ovaries have been removed and frozen and she is now on long-term drug therapy.

So when people tell Geoff that he has a hard road ahead of him, him simply tells them it is nothing

of the elements

Kate Carlyle and Geoff Wilson

compared to what Kate and all cancer patients go through after diagnosis.

“I know I can do this, I’m pig-headed, my physique is built for long, slow, grinding pain;” said Geoff.

“I’m excited about the fact that we have an opportunity to really get the message out about breast awareness and the McGrath Foundation.”

Over the next four months one of the priorities for the Pink Polar team is to find a naming sponsor for the challenge, to help get Geoff, the food, the sled and all his supplies to the Antarctic.

“We already have some great minor sponsors from Pet Barn and Green Cross Vets, so we are looking for someone who thinks they can benefit from all the coverage that is sure to come, in the lead up to, during the trek and definitely afterwards,” added Geoff.

Geoff trains in the Arctic

“I am going to do this, even if my wife Sarah and I have to self-fund it, it’s happening.”

The boobsled concept is grabbing attention around the world, the expedition was picked up in 14 different countries 24 hours after the first press release went out.

Hardly surprising when you consider it will be the longest solo journey by an Australian in a polar region, and the first crossing of Antarctica as a whole continent by an Australian.

“The record of 64 days was set in 1997 and I’m pretty keen to have a crack at that as well,” said Geoff.

“But the main thing is that I get home safe and Kate’s story gets out there and encourages more women to be breast aware and we make an incredible amount of money for the McGrath Foundation.”

Go to www.pinkpolar.com.au for more information.

July 2013 Motor Trader | 29

IN STITU TE O F TEC H N O LO G Y

Paint and Panel industry OPen day The MTA Institute of Technology is the training provider for industry, by industry.

You are invited to inspect our brand new paint and panel training facility at an industry-only open day on Saturday 17 August 2013.

Be there for: • • • •

Equipment demonstrations Facility tour Student displays Industry networking

Plus our expert trainers and staff will be on hand to chat and to answer all of your questions.

Saturday 17 August 2013 12.30 – 3.00pm The Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence Freeway Office Park Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains QLD

20130086

Register your interest today on 07 3237 8777 or by email reservations@mtaq.com.au. For catering purposes, please RSVP no later than COB Friday 26 July 2013.

Motoring

Dealer only auction house “ R oss Auto Auctions is a family owned business based at Eagle Farm.

Owners Glenn and Jodie Ross started the business in October 2012 after purchasing Schulz Motor Auctions, and after rebranding, making some changes to the business model and using their wealth of motor industry experience, the company now auctions an average of 300

The big difference between us and many other auction houses, is that we sell strictly to dealers only.”

cars a week with a high disposal rate.

“The big difference between us and many other auction houses, is that we sell strictly to dealers only,” said Mr Ross.

“There is no selling to members of the public, our business is in the business of supporting licensed motor dealers.”

The stocklist is updated daily at www.rossautoauctions.com.au and dealers are welcome to visit the premises, Monday to Friday between 7am and 4.30pm to inspect the cars and have a chat with staff to make decisions easier come auction time.

Auctions are held every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

With a team of eight representatives searching the country, Ross Auto Auctions only buy high quality, saleable and competitively priced vehicles to present to auction.

“Every vehicle goes to auction at least once,” said Mr Ross.

“That way everybody has the same opportunity and it’s an even playing field.”

Experienced auctioneers move the stock through at a fast pace and are obviously well versed in the stock and committed to being across the entire inventory.

Glenn and his team work the floor and are on hand to answer any questions regarding the stock.

Glenn and Jodie also own a vehicle transport company and Glenn has had over 25 years experience in the motor trade, working in all aspects of the industry and dealerships.

Specific vehicles are targeted on certain days, with Tuesday hosting high quality, low kilometer vehicles, Wednesday is home to more mid-range cars and Friday is the day for bargains with the cheaper stock making an appearance.

The fully undercover showroom at 53 Savage Street, Eagle Farm, also has an onsite café open from 7am to 2pm daily.

July 2013 Motor Trader | 31

Industry insight

The most important asset in your business is your people

With the release of the BDO Automotive Executive Salary Survey 2013, it is timely to consider what contributes to an effective salary and commission structure

M

ost automotive businesses rely on people interacting with each other to generate sales. Every sales dollar that comes into the business is as a result of someone selling or doing something, so how do you remunerate your people to maximise performance now and into the future?

Generally an effective salary and commission structure is one that aligns the goals of the employees with those of the business. This is somewhat complicated when we consider the different personalities and skill sets required to be successful. Some may assume people are entirely motivated by money; however, most are also motivated by non-monetary factors such as culture, work/life balance and working conditions. Another obstacle is that the goals of the business need to have some consistency with those of external stakeholders (e.g. manufacturers and franchisors), however these are often competing.

While the strategic goals of each business owner will vary, high on everyone’s agenda will be the goal to generate acceptable financial returns. For that reason, key drivers for profitability are what your people should be rewarded to achieve, not only for the business, but for themselves.

The challenge here is that increased profitability is achieved through increasing sales while decreasing expenses, so how do you motivate your people to increase sales volume at the same time as containing employee 32 | Motor Trader July 2013

costs? An effective way to do this is to achieve the right balance between the employee’s base wage, or retainer, and the commission component. The commission component is the ‘at risk’ component and should be structured to reward your people for achieving results that are consistent with the strategic (i.e. long term) goals of the business.

It is our view that the retainer is compensation for the process (e.g. completing paper work, introductions, tidiness, personal presentation, etc) and the commission is the reward for the result (e.g. the number of new and used sales, labour sales, CSI score, etc). Often we see employees being commissioned for process. Businesses with strong leadership and culture don’t provide incentives to their people for process, or for doing their job, they reward people for achieving outstanding results. They train their people to appreciate that the process is the best way for them and the business to achieve results.

The balance between the retainer and commission will be dependent on the business’s circumstances, such as geographic location, franchises and labour market forces; however, the ‘at risk’ component should reflect these circumstances. It is essential that the commission component has the right balance in rewarding both sales volume and gross profitability, and also incorporates the strategic goals for the business. For example, it would be easy to incentivise service advisers to increase sales and gross profit, yet this may promote behaviour that erodes

customer satisfaction and retention.

While there is no ‘one size fits all’ salary package, listed below are common themes in all effective remuneration packages: • The right balance between the retainer and commission component • The right balance in rewarding sales volume and gross profit • The ‘at risk’ component rewards the result not the process • Considers strategic goals (e.g. CSI, Factory Targets, Retention and Business Growth) • Is easily understood and measured • Has employee buy-in • Is achievable with the right amount of effort.

Employee costs are typically the most significant costs in an automotive business, so it is important that these costs are controlled but effective.

A successful salary and commission structure serves to motivate employees towards greater financial returns for themselves and the business.

There is no ideal remuneration package template suitable for application across all businesses. While the goal of maximising financial returns is consistent, the focus points to achieve this will vary to some extent, and the salary and commission structure should reflect that.

By: Randall Bryson, BDO, Associate Director, Automotive For further information regarding the BDO Automotive Executive Salary Survey 2013 please contact your local Automotive adviser on (07) 3237 5999.

The indusTry super fund for The auTomoTive indusTry.

www.mtaasuper.com.au motor Trades association of australia superannuation fund pty Ltd (aBn 14 008 650 628, afsL 238 718) is the Trustee of mTaa superannuation fund (aBn 74 559 365 913). you should consider whether or not mTaa super is appropriate for you. The mTaa super product disclosure statement (pds) can be obtained by calling us on 1300 362 415. you should consider the pds in making a decision.

sensiBle solUtions neW FinanCial year, neW solUtions BDO’s Automotive specialists provide a wide range of financial and consulting services to the automotive sector throughout Australia. When it comes to choosing your advisers, BDO knows that both experience and accessibility is important. The BDO Automotive team provide sensible options and alternatives for continuing the growth of your business. The following is a summary of our services.

• • • • • • •

Tax advice and compliance services Audit and assurance services Strategic planning Family business and succession planning Fixed operations training Leadership and development training Tax and financial accounting training

• • • • • •

Business valuations and due diligence services Buy/sells Profitability enhancement and benchmarking services Specialised budgeting programmes Superannuation planning Salary reviews and recruitment services.

For more information please contact your local Automotive adviser.

Mark WarD Partner Tel: +61 7 3237 5744 mark.ward@bdo.com.au

Darren Crothers Partner Tel: +61 7 3237 5990 darren.crothers@bdo.com.au

Distinctively different – it’s how we see you Audit • tAx • Advisory

DaMian Wright Partner Tel: +61 7 3237 5750 damian.wright@bdo.com.au

ranDall Bryson Associate Director Tel: +61 7 3237 5792 randall.bryson@bdo.com.au