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vehicles to supplement stock for sale. ▶ Manage complex customer issues. ▶ Apply safe working practices in an automotive workplace. ▶ Communicate effectively in an automotive workplace. ▶ Establish relations with customers. Salesperson Course $575 $460 for MTA Queensland members Dealer Course $1,030 $824 for MTA Queensland members
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Contents Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland
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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 Jonathan Nash ART DIRECTOR Marco Ilinic INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Ted Kowalski Paul Murray POLICY Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Barry Browne 03 9807 9154 Email: barry@barrybrownemedia.com.au EDITORIAL Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information telephone the Editor 07 3237 8777
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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.
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MTA QUEENSLAND ABN: 74 028 933 848
02 From the editor
CORPORATE PARTNERS
30
04 From the desk of the CEO 05 Policy/Viewpoint 08 MTA Q&A STEVE WHITE AND ADRIAN SMITH FROM BRISBANE CYLINDER HEAD SERVICE
20160414
Feature 10 SHIFTING GEAR: FORD LOOKS TO THE FUTURE AS MANUFACTURING COMES TO AN END 16 Members Classic FORD’S CONVERTIBLE CLASSIC: 1970 FORD MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE
MEMBERS ESSENTIALS 19 Training GM's Professional Circle perspective 20 Professional Circle training 22 Apprentice of the Year 27 Member profiles 28 Industrial relations 30 Concept Corner MERCEDES MAYBACH 6 33 Industry insight MAKING YOUR CASH FLOW! October 2016 Motor Trader | 1
From the editor
JONATHAN NASH EDITOR
H
SAVE THE DATE
ELLO AND WELCOME to the October 2016 edition of Motor Trader. In this month’s main feature we focus on Ford and the end of the company's manufacturing endeavours in Australia. It is three years since the company announced that it would close the doors of its Broadmeadows plant, consigning such iconic vehicles as the Falcon and the ute to the pages of history. What exactly happens from this point is uncertain, although we do know that Ford's assembly line workers will lose their jobs and component supply companies will also feel the pinch. It won't end there, of course. Ford ending its manufacturing operations is just the opening salvo in a triple barrage that will end next year with Holden and Toyota also pulling the plug.
Ford, and the other companies, won't be abandoning Australia, of course - a number of their excellent internationally-made vehicles will be sold here. However, the next 18 months is going to be an unnerving and worrying time for everyone involved in the industry. In our MTA Q&A feature this month we talk to Steve White and Adrian Smith from Brisbane Cylinder Head Service. Specialists in cylinder head reconditioning but also able to provide all aspects of engine reconditioning, the team at Brisbane Cylinder Head Service work on engines from light commercial to marine and deliver their services to customers across Queensland. In our Member's Classic feature on pages 16 and 17, we catch up with Tom Malouf, dealer principal of Malouf Auto Group in Mt Isa, to talk about his 1970 Ford Mustang convertible. A true American classic, Tom's Mustang is a stunning example of the model and is in mint condition. In Professional Circle training news this month, we once again visit John Edwards from John Edwards Automotive. In August, the business picked up the Small Employer of the Year category for the Metropolitan region at the Queensland Training Awards (QTA). A brilliant result, John followed that award with another one at the state final held in September. Being named Queensland's Small Employer of the Year came as something of a shock to John.
THE ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S BALL IS THE HIGHLIGHT ON THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY’S SOCIAL CALENDAR. THIS PRESTIGIOUS BLACK-TIE event will be marketed to all MTA Queensland members, clients and stakeholders and is expected to sell out. The evening will feature dinner, entertainment and dancing and will include an awards ceremony recognising the best and brightest trainees and apprentices at the MTA Institute. Date: Saturday 19th November 2016 Time: 6:30pm - 11pm Venue: Hilton Brisbane
2 | Motor Trader October 2016
“I am pretty surprised about it all,” he said. “There were other people there who obviously have done an amazing job so when they called my name it was a bit of a shock. There is a part of you that says ‘Wow, am I worthy of this? Have we done enough?’ but obviously the judges believed we had.” We wish John the best of luck as the focus now turns to the Australian Training awards. Talking of awards, the MTAQ President's Ball takes place on November 19 and the winner of the MTAQ Apprentice of the Year will be announced on the night. On pages 22 to 24 of this edition we take the opportunity to introduce each of our nominees. They are all outstanding candidates, all have a tremendous future in the industry and will, no doubt, be excellent ambassadors for the industry as their careers progress. Congratulations to them all. As always, we will endeavour to bring you news and insight into the industry, information on the latest training opportunities, and highlight members’ interests. If you have a story worth telling, want to appear in Member Profiles, or have a classic car, bike or truck you would like to see featured, then please contact me.
Cheers, Jonathan Nash jonathann@mtaq.com.au
A special business offer for MTA Queensland members. To help keep your business moving, Commonwealth Bank has a special offer for MTA Queensland members. Just open a new Commonwealth Bank Business Transaction Account by 31/12/2016 and link it to your existing or new Commonwealth Bank merchant facility.
To take advantage of this offer, just contact MTA Queensland on 07 3237 8777.
Important Information: Offer available to referrals made via MTA Queensland between 01/06/2016 to 31/12/2016. *This offer is applicable to existing and eligible new merchant facilities, excluding the Albert EFTPOS device. To maintain the fee waiver, you must retain the required products contained in this offer (including settling your merchant facility to your linked Commonwealth Bank Business transaction account). Otherwise the offer may be withdrawn. #To maintain the fee waiver, you must retain the required products, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn. Offer includes the monthly account maintenance fee of currently $10 on the Business Transaction Account linked to the merchant facility. Please refer to terms and conditions. ^Establishment fee waiver and two free tokens are available to new CommBiz customers only. This offer may be extended beyond the specified end date at the discretion of the Commonwealth Bank. Interest rates and fees are subject to change. Full conditions of use will be included in our Letter of Offer. Applications for finance subject to the Bank’s normal lending criteria. MTA Queensland may receive a fee from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each successful referral. Referral Fees are not payable on referrals from existing relationship managed Commonwealth Bank customers. This has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider its appropriateness to your circumstances before you act on it. Terms and conditions are available from commbank.com.au Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. Australian credit licence 234945.
From the desk of the CEO
BRETT DALE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND
I
’VE JUST RETURNED from four glorious days with the family on Kangaroo Island experiencing locally-produced fine natural foods, great beaches and fauna diversity. Of course, the long term aim is to establish a Motor Trades Association there to give the local automotive businesses a voice! There are some 4,000 families on Kangaroo Island and a similar number of motor vehicles mainly SUVs. The break was very welcome as stakeholder engagements and corporate business has been intense. Increasing the power of the MTA Queensland’s voice with stakeholders is an ongoing priority. Meetings have continued with Federal and State parliamentarians. It was a pleasure having the Member for Moreton, Graham Perrett visit us for a tour of our training facility followed by an informative discussion on policy issues. Likewise, I met with Senator Chris Ketter in our office for a broad discussion that included training. The Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills Karen Andrews has rescheduled a meeting and we have a pending meeting with the Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services Jane Prentice. As part of raising the Association’s profile and influencing policy considerations, I attend the major political party’s Corporate Observer’s programs. The Liberal National Party recently held its program in conjunction with its State Annual
4 | Motor Trader October 2016
Conference. I met Shadow Ministers with portfolios relative to the motor trades and to discuss key policies. These included transport, training and skills and biofuels. The ALP Annual Conference is at the end of October. The Queensland Minister for Small Business has advised that she will meet with us and will do so by coming to the MTA Queensland’s corporate office. I look forward to providing a tour of the training facility, introducing her to staff and discussing small business issues relative to the motor trades. I attended the Australian Automotive Dealer Association’s (AADA) national convention, providing the opportunity to engage in discussions with MTA delegates and stakeholders. A side issue for me was to progress national collaboration for the purpose of a unified voice to government. Further discussions will be held in the near future to advance the concept of a cohesive national voice for the motor trades. At a different level, the Convention provided the opportunity to negotiate an agreement with the Federated Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), AADA and State and Territory MTAs to discuss national advocacy synergies, consider parallel imports, consumer’s right of repair - data access, and Australian Consumer Law review. These concepts will be explored at a further meeting in October. To be inclusive, I attended the Australian Imported Motor Vehicle Industry Association’s Gold Coast forum. It is an association that represents businesses associated with the importation, preparation, and sale of used vehicles. It has been actively lobbying for the past 6 months for consumer choice (access to vehicles not sold in Australia and used vehicles). Its agenda is to protect the current space and create a sustainable future supported by appropriate policy. A follow up meeting was held with the Australian Council for Private Education and Training (ACPET) Chief Executive Officer Rod Camm, to discuss key issues regarding private
training providers. This included reputational threat to private providers based on government’s careless statements around ‘dodgy training providers’. The ongoing commentary puts at risk the interest of new applicants into the VET space, setting training back 15 years. The completion rate for governmentfunded programs (Certificate I and above) commencing in 2014 increased to 38 per cent, is up from 34.5 per cent for programs commenced in 2013. The subject load pass rate was 83 per cent which is in line with that of 2013 at 83.1 per cent.
INDUSTRY Members' attention is drawn to online scams involving siphoning of money from bank accounts. Cybersecurity should be a priority from the smallest business to corporations. Recently, my attention was drawn to a significant Queensland statutory organisation which was within 15 minutes of being scammed for several hundred thousands of dollars.
ECONOMY Apart from surveys and statistics, the most significant event was the seamless transition of the Reserve Bank Board’s Governor from Glenn Stevens, who had been in the role for 10 years, to Dr Phillip Lowe. It was reassuring to hear Dr Lowe, before a House of Representative Standing Committee on Economics, indicate that the Reserve Bank's job was to contribute to economic growth by keeping inflation within its 2-3 per cent target over time. I liked the story that the sole item his predecessor left in the office for Dr Lowe was a coffee mug emblazoned with the words 'half full'. 'Half full' is how I view business and the economy! At the last Reserve Bank Board chaired by the former Governor Glenn Steven the cash rate was left unchanged. The reasons included that overall growth was continuing and this was despite a significant decline in business investment. There was growth in other areas of domestic
demand and exports. Labour costs continue to be subdued. The Australian Bureau of Statistic labour market indicators are mixed. The national trend unemployment rate for August remained steady at 5.7 per cent whilst in Queensland it was 6.2 per cent - the same as for the previous month. As indicated in August's From the Desk of the CEO, a concern nationally is the decrease in full-time employment and the continued growth in part-time employment. The ABS indicates that since December 2015, there are around 105,300 more persons working part-time, compared with a 21,500 decrease in those working full-time. In Queensland, for the same period, the ABS depicts a grim outlook. Persons working full-time (trend) fell by 20,700 persons whilst persons engaged in part-time employment also declined by 22,900, of which 94 per cent were female. According to the National Australia Bank monthly business survey, Queensland business conditions (three-month average April to August), were in positive territory but below that applying nationally. On the other
hand, business confidence was strong and above the national sentiment.
NEW MOTOR VEHICLE SALES New motor vehicle sales for Queensland for August remained stable with 19,419 new units on a trend basis. This was an increase of mere +17 or +0.1 per cent units on the previous month. Compared with August 2015, there was a downturn of -311 or -1.6 per cent. Nationally, there were 97,892 new motor vehicle sales in the month of August. Passenger vehicles were the dominant segment with 40,270 sales, but a decrease of -0.5 cent on the previous month. Sports utility vehicles continued to be in demand with sales increasing by +0.9 per cent to 36,844 the best result since April 2016.
ROAD SHOW Whilst General Manager Kellie Dewar is ‘glamping at Yamba’ I’ve renamed ‘visits’ to the 'Road Show'. The first for the financial year will be Toowoomba on Tuesday 11th October and the Sunshine Coast on the following day. Members in these areas will be advised of the details.
The focus of the meetings will be hearing from Members their specific needs and discussing the Association’s strategic direction. Accompanying me will be Kellie Dewar and some of our Corporate Members who are keen to engage with Members on the utility of their services and products.
AND THE LAST THING The priority for the coming month is the MTA Queensland’s Board quarterly/annual meeting at which the corporate governance arrangements will be on the agenda for approval. The draft arrangements establish the framework of rules, relationships, systems and processes in which we operate and are held to account by the Membership and stakeholders. They are critical to integrity and trust which are embedded in the Association’s philosophy. Until November, as Henry Ford, the industrialist and the founder of the Ford motor company said ‘execute ideas with enthusiasm . . . as it is the bottom of all progress.'
Policy/Viewpoint
KELLIE DEWAR GENERAL MANAGER MTA QUEENSLAND
O
NE OF THE Membership and consumer issues that arise regularly relates to used cars and repairable write-offs and annual safety inspections. Fortuitously, prior to leaving for my ‘glamping’ break with the family, a letter arrived from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) detailing the relevant
policies which I share with Members in this Viewpoint. Under the Transport Operations (Road Use Management) Act 1995 (TORUM) and the Motor Dealers and Chattel Auctioneers Act 2014 there are strong regulatory protections. It is however, the Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) that provides the specific detail of used cars and the strong advice is that before purchasing a used car it should be searched. Regardless of whether the vehicle is a statutory write-off or repairable writeoff, all vehicles placed on the written-off vehicle register can be identified. Under TORUM, there are strict criteria that determine when a vehicle has to be recorded on the written-off register, and whether it is a statutory or repairable write-off. A repairable written-off vehicle is required to pass a safety certificate which requires the vehicle to be inspected by a qualified and accredited examiner before
being presented to the Queensland Inspection Services (QIS) where it is checked. QIS is required to check that the notified damage matches the repairs to the vehicle and ensure that the validity of the Safety Certificate is established. The Queensland Government is a signatory to the national written-off related scheme and does not intend to depart from that written-off scheme consistent with other Australian jurisdictions - except New South Wales (NSW). In that State, all written-off vehicles are recorded as a statutory write off. This policy ‘was based on the high levels of vehicle re-birthing and other related organised crime’ which appears to be localised to NSW. Referring to annual safety inspections (ASI), recent studies in other jurisdictions on the effectiveness of mandatory annual inspections did not find that the benefit outweighed the costs. In Queensland, periodic October 2016 Motor Trader | 5
Policy/Viewpoint safety inspections are required for vehicle categories that present a moderate to high safety risk to the community, such as taxis, buses and heavy vehicles. Privately owned light vehicles are considered a low safety risk and, accordingly, do not require programmed inspections. Members are reminded that the Smoky Vehicle Hotline service continues in operation assisting in the management of vehicle emissions compliance. The hotline is complemented by random on-road enforcement of vehicle standards and safety by transport inspectors and police officers.
NEWLY ELECTED DIVISIONAL CHAIRS There has been a mini changing of the guard at the Divisional level. Congratulations to all continuing Divisional Chairs and welcome to three new leaders. They are Chair of the Tyre and Undercar Division of Queensland (TUDQ), Brad Collett; Chair of the Australian Automotive Dealer Council Qld (AADA Qld), James Sturges; and Chair of the National Auto Collision Alliance (NACA), Ben Chesterfield. Brad Collett is the owner/operator of Geebung Tyres and More. The business involves tyres with work that includes mechanical to suspension, servicing, wheel alignments and safety certificates. Brad commenced working in the automotive industry in 1986 as an apprentice mechanic and his business became a MTA Queensland member in 2013. Brad’s focus as TUDQ Chair will be to uphold industry standards and ensure Members having access to up-to-date industry information and advice. Paramount will be promotion of safety for all businesses in the sector. James Sturges is the current General Manager of Llewellyn Motors Ipswich where he has been for some 14 years. James’ background is technologies which enabled his first interaction with a dealership in helping to select and implement a new Dealer Management System across the group. He has been a Member of the AADA Qld (and its predecessors) for more than 10 years and believes that its challenge is to support the issues of 6 | Motor Trader October 2016
dealers at the state and national levels at a time of significant change due to technology and the cessation of vehicle manufacture in Australia. Ben Chesterfield is the current State Manager of Car-Craft Accident Repair Centres. His involvement in the automotive industry commenced in 1982 as an apprentice panel beater/ spray painter. Car-Craft’s MTA Queensland membership commenced in 2011 when it was established in the State. Ben’s sectorial outlook is for the complexity of modern motor vehicles and that the knowledge and expertise required in the repair process is recognised. A focus will be compliance with the Code of Conduct, particularly as it refers to fair and transparent working relationships between repairers and insurer. A special ‘thank-you’ is extended to former Chairs - AADA Qld Garth Madill, TUDQ John Ruddick and NACA Steve Easton for their leadership and services to their respective Divisions.
ADVOCACY Regular meetings now have been established with TMR officers, which ensure that Members transport and related issues can be raised. An example of this is the letter in response to used cars and repairable write-offs and annual safety inspections that we raised at our last meeting. I’ve finalised two submissions and these are on the website for Members to peruse. The first was the response to the Motor Accident Insurance Commission’s discussion paper relating to the Review of Queensland’s Compulsory Third Party Insurance Scheme. Our submission focused on issues relevant to Members. The view presented included that the current scheme was operating well, providing an effective level of risk cover for the motoring public in the State. In particular, the Compulsory Third Party insurance premiums are affordable to the acquisition of safe and modern motor vehicles by Queenslanders. The second submission relates to the Exposure Draft - Competition and Consumer Amendment (Competition Policy Review) Bill 2016. We have been a consistent advocate since 2008 for
the reform of Australia’s commercial statutory framework supporting the policy reinforcements to the competition and consumer regulatory framework. The initiatives detailed in the legislation that would enhance the competitive and equitable operation of markets to the benefit of the automotive chain were endorsed.
SURVEY This will be the last of the gems extracted from the December 2015 survey. In response to the question of displaying prominently in the Member’s business the MTA Queensland sign, there was a strong result. Some 80 per cent of Members indicated this was the practice. 44 per cent indicated the reason for displaying the sign was that the industry needs a strong voice and the MTA Queensland did this. Another 31 per cent stated that clients and customers know and trust the MTA Queensland sign whilst 23 per cent nominated services adding value for customers.
LIPTEMBER Liptember was a campaign that MTA Queensland embraced with enthusiasm. Its purpose was to raise funds and awareness for woman's mental health during the month of September. This included buying the official Liptember lipsticks, seeking sponsorships from family, friends and co-workers and committing to wear the Liptember Lipstick throughout the month. It was such fun for a good cause even our male colleagues got into the spirit! The best part is that we raised $1,330, surpassing our $1,000 target. Thank you to all who bought and participated in wearing the Liptember lispsticks and to the generous sponsors and donors.
FINALLY Are you ready for the President’s Annual Ball on November 19 at the Hilton? Don’t leave it to the last minute to secure your tickets. I’ve checked and there is a small number available! Don’t miss out on an evening of camaraderie and one that celebrates achievement. As always, take care and stay safe.
MTAQ is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Innovation Award and the Community Award - to be presented at this year’s President’s Ball on November 19. These awards have been created to recognise the business creativity of MTAQ members and their involvement within the communities they serve. From business methods that benefit the environment or improve productivity, to relationships with local communities through charitable works, the award judges - including MTA Queensland Chairman David Fraser and the Executive team - want to look at any and all initiatives. Representatives of the winning businesses are
required to attend the event and will, if needed, be flown to Brisbane and provided accommodation at the Hilton Brisbane. But staying at the Hilton is not the only reward. Recipients will also receive a trophy, a $1500 travel voucher and exposure through MTAQ’s website, social media presence and Motor Trader magazine. So get involved and nominate either your own business or the business of another member who you think has excelled in either of these areas. Let us know, via email and in 500 words or less, which business has been nominated, why they have been nominated and include either photographic or documentary evidence to support the nomination, and away we go!
INNOVATION AWARD We often think of innovation in terms of technology, but innovation comes in many forms. From engaging employees with unique incentive programs to methodologies that streamline workflows and increase production; from waste management to quality control; from new product lines to changes to old ones; from customer service programs to unique building, planning and environmental projects. ‘Innovation’ can cover any improvement or adjustment to your business.
COMMUNITY AWARD MTA Queensland knows many members are involved with their community beyond the boundary of their business - be it via charitable works, fundraising, volunteering or direct work in the community. The Community Award recognises a member business which has identified how important their role can be within the community they serve and which has responded with projects, programs and initiatives reflecting that importance.
The nomination process is open now and closes at Noon on Monday, October 31
The winners will be notified by Friday, November 4
Email your nomination to info@mtaq.com.au
WINNERS RECEIVE Return flights to Brisbane A night at the Hilton Brisbane Free entry to The President’s Ball $1,500 travel voucher
2015 WINNER
Steve Hayes accepted the award on behalf of Chip Tyre
Awarded to Chip Tyre. The company is involved in the recycling of end-of-life tyres, breaking down the tyres to create rubber crumb that can be used in a wide range of applications, from tile adhesive glue to children’s playground matting. Using equipment that is capable of shredding 25 tonnes of tyres per hour, Chip Tyre is the only producer of rubber crumb in Queensland, processing in excess of 2000 tonnes per month.
2015 WINNER
Bruce Keown accepted the award on behalf of the Bruce Lynton Automotive Group
Presented to the Bruce Lynton Automotive Group, recognising the generous and ongoing support from the Group to a wide range of charities and community initiatives. Included amongst the charities the Group supports are 4 ASD Kids (a charity founded by Chloe and Mat Rogers, which focuses on caring for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)), Guide Dogs Queensland and Cancer Council Queensland.
20140186
IT’S TIME TO NOMINATE FOR THE MTAQ AWARDS
MTA
QA &
What products and services does Brisbane Cylinder Head Service provide? SW: We specialise in cylinder head reconditioning and can also provide all aspects of engine reconditioning. We work on pretty much all engines - light commercial, commercial, motorbikes, even marine engines such as Yamaha outboards. We have a cylinder head exchange exchange service too. In that instance, if there is a need for a quick turnaround, we will send an exchange head out to the customer.
r Head Service
Steve White and Adrian Smith from Brisbane Cylinde
AS: So we have the cylinder head exchange service and supply new cylinder heads as well as recondition them, but we supply other parts too including gaskets, head bolts, timing belt kits. We are kind of a one-stop shop. We have been in the industry a long time and there are certain manufacturers of parts that we trust and we know work. For petrol engines we use Dura Pro products while for diesel engines we use Diesel Power Parts.
Who are your customers? SW: 95 per cent of our business is with trade customers such as dealerships and other mechanical service facilities. Our business is quite specialised and requires specialised machining tools – equipment that, traditionally, you would not find at a dealership or mechanical workshop. AS: What happens is that a member of the public will take their vehicle to the dealer or a mechanic for repair. The dealer or mechanic then contracts
Steve White and Adrian Smith established their business, Brisbane Cylinder Head Service, in 2005, quickly establishing a reputation for excellence that has seen them expand the business to a team of six offering professional and quality services to customers from as far afield as northern NSW and north Queensland. us to do the work. We do have a small percentage of retail customers – people such as restorers or those who are keen to have a go at fixing things themselves. SW: We can offer our service throughout Queensland and northern NSW. For our more local customers we have a pick-up and delivery service.
How long has the business been operating? AS: We started in Woolloongabba 11 years ago and moved to our current premises in Tingalpa last year. We made that move for two reasons. We needed bigger premises, and being here at Tingalpa means we are out of the city and have easy access to the Pacific Highway. That makes things easier for the pick-up and delivery service.
How did the business become established? AS: We purchased a complete engine reconditioning shop from Mackay and trucked everything down to our premises in Brisbane.
What’s your background in the trade? AS: I’ve been in the trade for 21 years. When I was much younger, my older brother was doing an apprenticeship and the opportunity came up for another apprenticeship at the same business. I took the opportunity, completed my engine reconditioner apprenticeship and established Brisbane Cylinder Heads 10 years later. SW: I have 30 years in the trade. I remember I completed a couple of weeks of work experience at an engine reconditioning facility when I was in grade 10. It was quite a large business with about 20 staff and they told me after those two weeks that if I was
interested in working there I should call them at the end of the year. That was how it started for me.
Have there been many changes in the industry in that time? SW: Heaps of change. The industry is constantly changing and we are consistently getting new types of engines and cylinder heads coming into the shop. There has been a lot of technology going into cylinder head design over the years - four valves per cylinder, double overhead cams, for example – and we are constantly upgrading our machinery and tooling to be able to work with the different types of engines that are coming through.
How do you stay up to date with this technology? SW: We keep across new developments through our suppliers, through the MTAQ and other avenues and, of course, we get a lot of information through our customers, the dealerships. When a new product comes on to the market they will share information about that product with us. We do deliver a service to the dealerships so our relationship with them is rather different to, say, an independent mechanical workshop.
AS: All our staff are tradesmen and we employ two casuals because, as with any trade, there can be some inconsistency in the workload. You might think you’re going to be in for a quiet period when, all of a sudden, things pick up and you’ve got cylinder heads sitting there ready to do.
To what do you attribute your success? SW: Our slogan is ‘technical innovation and service’. Customer service and quality of work is the cornerstone of what we do and is very important to us. And we work at having a close relationship with our customers. It’s not just about business – it’s never a case of ‘here’s just another job'. We talk, communicate, share information with them and will always go that extra step to help out if the need is there.
What does the future hold for Brisbane Cylinder Head Service? SW: To continue to offer quality service to our customers, keep investing in the newest technology to make sure that quality remains, and keep expanding and getting bigger and better. We do intend to expand, employ more staff and eventually service every state in the country.
How has the evolution of new technologies such as hybrid technology affected you?
What do you do with your time off, if you have any?
AS: The engine in a hybrid is basically the same as the engine in a non-hybrid vehicle. That is the only part we focus on. We aren’t involved with the electrical systems.
SW: I enjoy the water! I have a boat and love spending time with the family out on the water. AS: Jet skiing and drag racing. I have an LJ Torana that I race. It goes well – I’ve done 8:80 seconds at 156mph. It’s an expensive hobby but a lot of fun.
How many staff do you have? SW: We have four staff plus two casuals.
October 2016 Motor Trader | 9
“THE BUSINESS CASE SIMPLY DID
NOT STACK UP, LEADING US TO THE CONCLUSION THAT MANUFACTURING IS NOT VIABLE FOR FORD IN AUSTRALIA IN THE LONG TERM.”
IN RESPONSE TO THE CLOSURE ANNOUNCEMENT AT FORD, A NUMBER OF PROGRAMS WERE CREATED TO HELP WORKERS PREPARE TO MOVE ON FROM THE COMPANY.
“. . . THE $27 MILLION GEELONG
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT CENTRE AND THE ASIA-PACIFIC ENGINEERING CENTRE IN CAMPBELLFIELD – INCLUDING THE DESIGN CENTRE – ARE INSTRUMENTAL AS PART OF FORD’S ON-GOING INVESTMENT STORY . . .”
Current Ford Australia president and CEO Graeme Whickman
“WE WILL BE INTRODUCING A
NUMBER OF EXCITING NEW VEHICLES AND TECHNOLOGIES DURING THE NEXT FEW YEARS THAT WILL EXCITE OUR AUSTRALIAN CUSTOMERS. THE BREADTH OF OUR LINE-UP WILL INCREASE BY MORE THAN 30 PER CENT . . .”
1934 Ford Coupe Utility
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MAKE: FORD MODEL: 1970 MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE ENGINE: 302 V8 WINDSOR AUTO OWNER: TOM MALOUF OWNED SINCE: 2008
FORD’S CONVERTIBLE CLASSIC
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HERE’S LITTLE DOUBT that the Ford Mustang is one heck of a popular muscle car. More than 9 million have galloped along the world’s roads since the car appeared in 1964 and the current model is selling like hotcakes around the globe. In its long history, there have been many stunning looking Mustang models. Some fans point to the original car as the design standout, and it has classic styling, no doubt. Others point to the handsome 1968 Mustang GT in the movie Bullitt or to the massive and muscular 1971 Mach 1 - a car that also became something of a movie star thanks to Sean Connery, as James Bond, flinging it along the streets of Las Vegas in in the movie Diamonds Are Forever. Whatever your favourite, there is no denying that the 1970 convertible that graces these pages would sit somewhere near the top of any ‘favourite Mustang of all time’ list. This one is owned by Tom Malouf, Dealer Principal of Malouf Auto Group in Mount Isa. Tom has something of a soft spot for Ford muscle cars – as a young salesman for Ford he was selling plenty of them and he does, perhaps, see their value not only as an item to be enjoyed but as a good advertisement for his business. “I started my career in the industry in the early ‘70s when XWs, XYGTs and Mustangs were around,” he says. “I suppose that has rubbed off because this Mustang works as a pretty good marketing tool. That is one of the reasons I keep it in the used car showroom.” Tom has owned the Mustang for eight years and, he says,
16 | Motor Trader October 2016
has hardly had to do a thing to it, such was the mint condition it was in when he bought it. “I was in Townsville for a business trip and a friend of mine, who is also a motor dealer, mentioned he had some ‘toys’ he had to dispose of. One of those was this Mustang. “He had bought the vehicle some years earlier and I believe it was, at one point, owned by a company called Mustang Sally’s in Sydney – a company that hires Mustangs out as wedding cars. “The photos you see here are how the car was when I bought it! Since I’ve had it, I have not had to spend anything on panel, paint, almost anything really. The only time I have had to spend money on it is when changing a few suspension bushes, the odd battery and, of course, eight years of registration. The body and paintwork is as it was when I bought it - immaculate.” Maintaining the Mustang is pretty easy, says Tom. A popular car here and in the US, parts are reasonably priced and easy to get hold of and, if you can, why wouldn’t you want to keep such a car on the road? “The car is 46 years old and it is still a good-looker and turns heads wherever it goes,” says Tom. “There is a
place in town called The Buffs Club and each year they stage a Show and Shine event. In the first year we owned the Mustang, they asked us to put it into the show and it won Best American Car and the People’s Choice award.” Not a daily driver, the Mustang gets a run on the occasional weekend but it is about to enter a bit of busy period. In Mt Isa, as with most towns around Queensland, the school formal season is nearly upon us. “It has been used for a few school formals,” says Tom. “Toward the end of every year there is usually a young person here looking to use the car and it has done a few graduation nights now. That time is coming around again soon.” The Mustang is not used just for school formals, of course. Harking back to its days in Sydney, it has also seen service at a number of weddings. When it’s not being used for one celebration or another, a gentle drive on a Sunday is its most likely outing and even though it isn’t fitted with air conditioning it is, says Tom, a great way to get around. “They are lovely old cars,” he says. “Driving it with the roof off and hearing the sound it makes is beautiful. And being able to take the roof off is great. After all, it can get up to 44 degrees here in the summer!” Though there are a handful of Mustangs in Mt Isa, Tom’s is the only red convertible, making it unusual enough that people wave and take photos whenever it’s out and about.
DO YOU HAVE A PRIDE AND JOY IN THE GARAGE THAT YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE IN THE PAGES OF MOTOR TRADER? Contact Jonathan Nash at jonathann@ mtaq.com.au or 07 3237 8721 and let’s see if we can share your classic with other members.
However, though it is stunning car, an unusual sight and in stunning condition, it might not be gracing the roads of the town for much longer. Tom currently has the Mustang up for sale (you might still be able to get all the details at maloufautogroup.com.au). The reason? Well, although he is a little evasive on the details, Tom say he needs the space as the family has ‘some other projects in the pipeline’. “We do have some other cars,” he says with a laugh. “Just a couple! We have some Holdens, including an EH ute, an HD ute and an HR Premier that need restoring. The sale of the Mustang is really to make some room for them.” Tom, it would seem, does like the classics. “I think we always have our eye out in case something different and interesting comes along. It could be any make or model, though probably preferably Holdens these days,” he says. “Once you’re in the industry, it’s in your blood.” October 2016 Motor Trader | 17
Can you afford not to be in the circle? Advocacy
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ESSENTIALS ESSENTIALS
PAUL KULPA GENERAL MANAGER MTA INSTITUTE
Contents 19 Training GM's Professional Circle perspective 20 Professional Circle training 22 Apprentice of the Year 27 Member profiles
CANELANDERS AUTO CENTRE PAUL KING AUTO REPAIRS
28 Industrial relations
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HEY SAY A week is a long time in the training industry. A month, however, feels like a lifetime. Since my last GM’s Perspective, there has been a lot of work going on. Firstly, we have finalised the Apprentice of the Year nominations and look forward to announcing the winner at the MTAQ President’s Ball in November. I always appreciate being part of this process to recognise the best and brightest in the automotive industry. After reviewing this year’s nominees, I know the winner will represent the industry well as the apprentice of the year. The President’s Ball will be a great event so make sure, if you haven’t already, to book your tickets. Good luck to all our finalists! We have also finalised our last prevocational training program, the Auto Initiation course taking place in Mount Isa. This program has now been rolled out in most towns in Queensland and more than 260 students have been involved. The MTA Institute is very proud to have developed and delivered this program for industry. I hope employers reading this article took on a student from this program and got someone
October 2016 Motor Trader | 19
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MEMBERS MEMBERS
who will work hard for them and contribute well to their business. Obviously, if these programs are not supported by industry, they will not be around in the future. On the international front, we have a number of Korean students who have come to experience our industry and learn skills here with a view of broadening their knowledge base. These students will be placed in a number of dealerships to gain some valuable experience and I would personally like to thank the following for their help in providing that opportunity for them. These are: • Q-Ford Springwood, Michael Serek – Service Manager • Old Mac Mazda Springwood, Ray Stewart – Service Manager • Hyundai Keema Mt Gravatt, John McCreesh – Service Manager • Zupps Subaru and Kia, Matt Skennerton – Service Manager Lastly, the subsidies for traineeships has recently been cut. MTA Institute has been advised by the Department of Education and Training that under its User Choice program for automotive traineeships, it has reduced its funding under the AUR16 Qualifications. In some instances, these reductions have been up to 50 per cent. MTA Institute will continue to deliver training for traineeships in the AUR16 qualifications, however we will now be requiring employers to make a financial contribution to this traineeship training. Rest assured, MTA Institute will continue to service your trainees with the same high level of professionalism to support them through their traineeship. As always, I welcome feedback from industry so if there are any issues out there please let me know. As an organisation we are always willing to help.
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Training GM's Professional Circle perspective
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Professional Circle training
JOHN EDWARDS AUTOMOTIVE WINS STATE TRAINING AWARD
John Edwards has won Queensland's Small Employer of the Year award at the Queensland Training
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OHN EDWARDS AUTOMOTIVE has won the statewide Queensland Training Awards (QTA) Small Employer of the Year Award. Announced at a gala ceremony in Brisbane on September 9, the award recognises the business, and its owner John Edwards, for the work and dedication in ‘striving for success, best practice and innovation in training.’ The State award follows on from the regional QTA award John Edwards
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“I AM PRETTY
Awards
SURPRISED ABOUT IT ALL . . . THERE WERE OTHER PEOPLE THERE WHO OBVIOUSLY HAVE DONE AN AMAZING JOB SO WHEN THEY CALLED MY NAME IT WAS A BIT OF A SHOCK.”
Automotive picked up in August and it is further testament to the effort John Edwards has put into his own business and the understanding he has of the importance of training and its role not only for his own continued success but to the wider industry. However, though the award was certainly well-deserved, John himself was, as he was when winning the regional award, startled to win. “I am pretty surprised about it all,” he said. “There were other people there who obviously have done an amazing job so when they called my name it was a bit of a shock. There is a part of you that says ‘Wow, am I worthy of this? Have we done enough?’ but obviously the judges believed we had.” Training has been an important part of the John Edwards Automotive business evolution. Over recent years, John completed a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment to allow him to be more fully-involved with the training of his staff, and he has brought in new in-house training to complement the training of his apprentices – training that he says ‘dovetails with the Certificate III competencies’ of his apprentices. Along with technical education, there is training in first aid, management, phone skills, budgeting and other areas that, ultimately, are aimed to create a seamless experience for the customer and to produce tradespeople that are more skilled, rounded and ready for a career in the industry. John is also involved in the AccelR8 program – a program run by the Queensland government’s Department of Education and
MTAI TRAINER PROFILE
IT’S FANTASTIC TO BE RECOGNISED BUT BASICALLY IT’S ALL ABOUT KEEPING A SMALL BUSINESS UP TO DATE WITH CURRENT TRENDS AND RUNNING A BUSINESS THAT DOES THE BEST WE CAN FOR OUR CUSTOMERS.” When did you become a trainer for MTA Institute? November 2015.
What geographical area do you service? Townsville and surrounding areas including Ingham to the north and Ayr to the south.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your role as a trainer for MTA Institute? Meeting new people and seeing keen students signing up for their future career.
What do you believe is the most important aspect of training? What is your specialised area? Light vehicles.
What is your background in the automotive industry? 28 years in the automotive industry in Townsville including 5 years as a Queensland Transport/ Main Roads inspector, 12 years self-employed in small business mechanical repairs and servicing, 18 months with RACQ as a vehicle inspector.
I believe structuring the training to suit the needs of the workplace, the supervisors and the student is a very important aspect of training. If the training is delivered without interrupting the business's day-to-day activities or minimising the inconvenience, then all parties can go about making the business a success.
Why should someone consider a career in the automotive industry? There will always be a requirement, no
matter the changes and advancements in technology, for qualified tradespeople. Vehicles will always have serviceable or replaceable components requiring attention.
What is the best piece of advice you can give to an apprentice starting out in the industry? Don't give up, look to the future and think about your end goal. There will be times when you think 'Why am I doing this?'. It's hard work but can be very rewarding in the long run. There are varied opportunities in the automotive industry and specialised areas that you may wish to move into upon completion of the apprenticeship.
When you’re not training, what do you like to do? Car racing of course. I have a 1979 Series 1 RX7, Group C touring car replica Slick 50 which I drive in timed events including sprint series and hill climbs. I love all forms of motorsports, be it two or four wheels, dirt or tarmac. I also enjoy weight training and watching UFC.
October 2016 Motor Trader | 21
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GUY MCKENZIE
“I’M EXCITED AND
shortlist of just three after officials from the Australian Training Awards review every submission and any further developments in each winning business. “If we’re not shortlisted then that will be where our journey ends, but if we are shortlisted then that will be something,” said John. “It’s a national award and not something that comes along everyday. If we are deemed worthy enough that’s great but I take my hat off to everyone who is involved. “It’s a bit hard for it all to sink in. The awards are not something we have chased – winning them is a by-product of us trying to run a good business. I’m excited and it’s fantastic to be recognised but basically it’s all about keeping a small business up to date with current trends and running a business that does the best we can for our customers.” The Australian Training Awards winners will be announced on November 17.
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Training and designed to prepare Year 12 students for the move to full-time automotive industry employment. He currently has two students training with him under that program. John is keen to point out that although it is his name that is called out on awards night, the push for training and improvement within the business and his small team of three is a John Edwards collaborative one. “We do sit down as a team and discuss what training needs we require,” he said. “We have a look at our skill set and decide where we might, as a group, have a skills gap and then source training that will help us fill that skills gap. It is a collaboration.” Attention now turns to the Australian Training Awards to be held in Darwin in November. Although John and his team have the state QTA award in the bag, there is still the small matter of being shortlisted for the national awards - the names of the winners from the other states and territories will be cut down to a
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Apprentice of the Year
2016 MTAQ APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR NOMINEES T O BECOME A tradesperson in the automotive industry means taking on an apprenticeship that demands dedication, hard work, patience and skill. It isn't an easy path to take and every apprentice deserves recognition for the tough but rewarding road they have chosen to travel. However, each year the MTAQ searches for one apprentice amongst the many to become Apprentice of the Year.
It is a fiendishly difficult task and this year the shortlist of nominees comes down to these eight outstanding students, all of whom were named as an Apprentice of the Month during the past year. Each of them has proven to have the 'right stuff' - the passion and drive to carve out a career in our industry. The nominees are all winners, of course, and each receives a double pass to the Gold Coast 600 V8 Supercars
event which includes, thanks to MTAQ's partners at MTAA Super, a tour of the Triple Eight Race Engineering garage. But for the Apprentice of the Year, who will be announced at the MTAQ President's Ball on November 19, he or she will receive not only the title but $2000 in prize money and a special surprise to be announced on the night. Congratulations to all the nominees. We'll see you at the President's Ball!
CALEB FERGUSON APPRENTICESHIP: MOTORCYCLE MECHANICAL TECHNOLOGY EMPLOYER: PRO HONDA MOTORCYCLES 19-YEAR-OLD CALEB FERGUSON has a passion for motorcycles. The first-year motorcycle mechanic apprentice with Pro Honda Motorcycles has been riding, racing and maintaining bikes for years and with two younger brother who compete in motocross at a national standard, that is likely to continue. An enthusiastic and hard-working apprentice, Caleb gets plenty of practice at Pro Honda. “I work on services, tyre changes and sometimes do deliveries – pretty much whatever needs to be done," he says. "We do it all here – road bikes, cruisers, scooters and so on. We work on all types of
manufacturers' bikes so I get to work on everything. That’s the best part about working here – I’m not stuck on the one thing because I’m an apprentice.” Caleb has an infectious enthusiasm for his chosen career. He likes to keep busy, to keep learning and he knows that to be successful, and to make a mark in the racing world where he would one day like to work, that is exactly what he will have to do. “The electronics in bikes is getting pretty advanced,” he says. “A lot of the work we do on new bikes revolves around serious electronics. “Eventually, I want to go in the racing direction
and work in motocross or supercross, so it’s important to be across suspension and engine performance – areas that make a bike reliable and competitive.” The nomination for MTAQ Apprentice of the Year has, says Caleb, given him even more motivation to succeed and reach his goals. “When I was told I had been nominated I was surprised and excited all at once – it was awesome,” he says. “My colleagues and my family are all proud and it makes me feel great about what I am doing and what I am learning and that the track I am on is the right one. It makes me want to do even better!”
REYD NICHOLSON APPRENTICESHIP: AUTO ELECTRICAL EMPLOYER: NERANG AUTO ELECTRICAL REYD NICHOLSON COMPLETED his auto electrical apprenticeship in December 2015 and his time as an apprentice was marked by a determination to succeed and to learn – an attitude that saw him pick up not only the MTAQ Apprentice of the Month award in September of 2015 but also a silver medal at last year’s regional Worldskills competition. The 21-year-old auto electrician works for Nerang Auto Electrical – a busy firm that deals with heavy vehicle, machinery and agricultural work, as well as light vehicle and air conditioning - and he has proved to be a real asset to his employer. 22 | Motor Trader October 2016
A year on from qualifying, Reyd is fully immersed in the trade, working not only in the shop but also on call-out jobs for businesses across the southeast and even on sand-pumping barges off the Gold Coast. It is, says Reyd, a job he truly enjoys and a career in which he will continue to learn. “You need to have a passion for the work, and have the patience to work things out properly,” he says. “It can be incredibly rewarding - when you get something difficult to fix and you fix it, it’s a great feeling. “I am very happy where I am, I really enjoy my job and will look to continue to develop my skills through
training in other areas such as welding.” The hard graft of the past few years has been recognised with the nomination for the MTAQ Apprentice of the Year award – a result that has made him extremely proud of the work he has put into his career thus far. “My colleagues, friends and family are all very proud and happy,” he says. “It is very rewarding. I work hard and I stick to that work ethic – without that I don’t think I would have been nominated. It goes to show that when you work hard it can pay off and does get noticed.”
APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL EMPLOYER: HANSEN FORD/MAREEBA TOYOTA that I haven’t seen before, defines a good day to me.” A career in automotive was always on the cards for Jamahl. He has always been interested in cars and recently completed, with his father, a two-year restoration project on a 1966 Mustang. His experience has shown him how much the industry has changed and the need to keep up to date with the evolving technology. “You really have to understand things such as the electronics systems and be able to go through, step-bystep, how everything works," he says. "Because I have worked on old cars and can compare them to cars today, it is a bit of a shock. The industry is very dynamic.” For Jamahl, continuing to learn and train is an
important part of his career and he plans to qualify as a master technician for both Ford and Toyota. “I definitely want to be a master technician,” he says. “In terms of other training, I will definitely look into areas such as road worthies and air conditioning. Ultimately, I’d like to look at a training role as a job – a role in which I could help train apprentices and other technicians.” Though clearly an outstanding student, Jamahl was surprised to be nominated for Apprentice of the Year. “I was shocked,” he says. “I think everyone was surprised but very proud. It is great to be recognised for the hard work that I’ve put in.”
DANE TURNBULL APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL EMPLOYER: PEDDERS SUSPENSION SLACKS CREEK DANE TURNBULL IS a third-year mechanical apprentice working with Pedders Suspension in Slacks Creek, south of Brisbane. The 28-year-old came late to the automotive trade, spending some years in other professions. “I’ve always loved cars and have been tinkering on them for years,” he says. “I grew up working on Commodores – I had six of them – and I always wanted a job as a mechanic. However, circumstances didn’t permit that when I was younger and it was only recently that I was able to move into automotive.” Dane completed a Certificate I in Vehicle Mechanical Engineering before taking on an apprenticeship, and is now putting his knowledge and
skills - and a passion for speed and drag racing - to good use, including in building, tuning, refining and racing a VT Commodore. At work, Dane covers the mechanical and suspension side of the business and it’s a job he relishes. “I love just about everything about the job,” he says. “I’ve always been passionate about cars so it is easy for me to enjoy what I do. As an apprentice you need to be dedicated and ask a lot of questions. It’s good to be curious and not be afraid to ask for help.” That curiosity, paired with his passion for the trade, is likely to set Dane up for a long career. “Ultimately, I would like to open my own
workshop for dyno-tuning, engine building and the elements of the trade that I really love. However, it is important to keep learning and to get more experience.” Being nominated for the MTAQ Apprentice of the Year award is, says Dane, a real honour and one that left him somewhat surprised. “My reaction when I found out was one of disbelief!” he says. “My friends and family were overwhelmed and it was a proud moment. “The biggest thing I take away from it is the recognition of all the hard work and effort that we put in. It does make it seem even more worth it.”
THERESA KERR APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL EMPLOYER: BP THE GAP THERESA KERR completed her light vehicle apprenticeship in October 2015 and is now working as a mechanic with BP The Gap in Brisbane. Theresa, 30, began working at the business 10 years ago, initially behind the service counter. The story of her move from shop to workshop is unusual. “I had a big job to do on my car, not for the first time,” she says. “I asked if I could learn how to do these things myself and that’s how it happened.” Theresa says she loves the work and has been made to feel truly welcome in what is still a male-dominated industry. “I have never met another female mechanic, but I
know they exist!” she says. “It is fantastic here I have a great boss and I work with good people.” Theresa takes on many roles within the business. As well as her mechanical duties - which include servicing, repairs and tyre fitment - she fills in when required in the office. “I like doing a bit of everything but one of the best parts of the job is when you get a ‘win’ – when you diagnose a fault and fix it,” she says. “That’s when you can do a ‘happy dance'!” Theresa clearly enjoys her work and recognises the industry is one where ongoing training is required. For Theresa, this means expanding her management skills.
“I’d like to stay on the tools for a while and then think about progressing to workshop advisor, management or owning my own business,” she says. “I know it is tough work but I do want to be in the industry for the rest of my life.” Theresa’s life is a pretty full one these days and the nomination for MTAQ Apprentice of the Year came as a very pleasant shock. “Although I had received the Apprentice of the Month award, I certainly didn’t expect this call,” she says. “To receive the Apprentice of the Year nomination is one of the biggest things I have ever achieved. I am very proud of that.” October 2016 Motor Trader | 23
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JAMAHL BYRNE WAS the MTAQ Apprentice of the Month for October 2015. As a fourth-year light vehicle apprentice with Mareeba Toyota and Hansen Ford, he impressed everyone with his enthusiasm and dedication to his work and training. That enthusiasm and dedication has followed Jamahl into his job as a mechanic and the 20-year-old is already a technical advisor, combining servicing and repair work with diagnostic and computer work. It’s a combination of roles that Jamahl relishes. “I enjoy everything. I get to work on cars all day!” he says. “I like to learn new things. Any day that I get to work on a repair that is different, or a diagnostic
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JAMAHL BYRNE
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Apprentice of the Year TRENT HARPER APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL EMPLOYER: ACDC MECHANICAL 20-YEAR-OLD Trent Harper is a second-year mechanical apprentice working with ACDC Mechanical in Runcorn. He started his career straight after school - a period of work experience confirming that automotive was the industry for him. “I was always interested in cars but didn’t know much about them,” he says. “I did some work experience and, after two weeks, I didn’t want to do anything else! Once I finished school, ACDC took me on and I’ve been here ever since.” Trent’s job covers servicing, mechanical and some auto electrical work and he has impressed both his
colleagues and his MTAI trainer with his attention to detail and willingness to learn. “There are a lot of things I enjoy but the main thing is learning from my trainer and my colleagues,” he says. “I couldn’t ask for a better team.” Trent’s enthusiasm is obvious and he has ambitions to continue his training into other areas and to one day owning his own business. “It’s a great trade to get into. It offers a great learning experience and it’s a trade you can use through your life. I wouldn’t give it up for anything.” His career has got off to a good start. Trent was
named Apprentice of the Month in June this year and is now nominated for Apprentice of the Year. “I don’t know that I am anything special,” he says. “I am just doing the best job I can. I was honoured to have won the Apprentice of the Month, and to be nominated for Apprentice of the Year, well, I couldn’t ask for anything more. “It’s great to be acknowledged for the work I have put in but I think this also means that I am receiving the best training. I am looking forward to bettering myself in any way I can knowing I have the right tools and the right people around me to get me there.”
JACOB GONZALEZ APPRENTICESHIP: AUTO ELECTRICAL EMPLOYER: GREENSLOPES AUTO ELECTRICS 22-YEAR-OLD Jacob is a second-year auto electrical apprentice with Greenslopes Auto Electrics in Brisbane. He has built up a solid set of skills during his apprenticeship – skills that have led his boss, Michael Dilkes, to place a great deal of trust in the young man. “There is just the two of us here,” says Jacob. “When Michael is out of the workshop, I am acting manager and do a fair bit of the business side of things – interacting with customers, ordering parts, organising the bills. It is a full-on experience.” It’s an experience Jacob nearly didn’t have as he originally started his automotive career by
undertaking a light vehicle apprenticeship. He says that having had that experience before switching worked to his advantage in the auto electrical field. “Starting in mechanics was definitely my gateway to being an auto electrician. Some people think auto electricians just mess about with wiring looms but there is a lot more to it than that! Having a mechanical background has definitely helped.” Having made strong progress during his apprenticeship thus far, and clearly appreciating the possibilities offered by the industry, Jacob has set himself some ambitious goals.
“After I qualify I’d like to start my own business and I am looking at completing the Cert III in Light Vehicle. That way I can have a full-service offering in my business.” While that may be a little while away, Jacob’s nomination for the MTAQ Apprentice of the Year Award is a clear indication he has the skills and determination to be successful. “When I was told I had been nominated for Apprentice of the Year I was pretty excited,” he says. “Being nominated is a huge achievement and shows that I can really achieve things when I put my head down. It means a great deal to me.”
ZANE LORD-MILLER APPRENTICESHIP: HEAVY COMMERCIAL VEHICLE EMPLOYER: M&H OAKEY ZANE LORD-MILLER completed his Heavy Commercial Vehicle apprenticeship in March this year and has become a valued member of the M&H Oakey team, helping to deliver what is a very comprehensive list of services offered by the company. “I handle a bit of everything,” says Zane. “We do RACQ roadside assistance and fit tyres, work on trucks and tractors, and service and maintain air conditioning and hydraulics. We also work on agricultural equipment and I do a fair bit of work for New Hope Mines, working on hydraulic hoses and air conditioning.” 24 | Motor Trader October 2016
While Zane’s days are always busy, he wouldn’t have it any other way. “I like to keep busy,” he says. “There’s always something different happening. We have a job board for the day and we could have services, air con services, hydraulics and whatever comes in off the street. It’s a bit unpredictable!” That unpredictability, and to be able to diagnose and fix any problems that come along, requires flexibility, confidence and common sense – strengths that, together with his desire to keep learning, highlights why Zane is an MTAQ Apprentice of the Year nominee.
“I have considered training in auto electrical, and there are other areas where I could do extra courses,” he says. “If, in the future, I want to spread my wings and perhaps start a business, it’s important to get as much knowledge and experience as possible.” Zane says being a nominee for MTAQ Apprentice of the Year is a great honour. “I was pretty stoked when I found out," he says. "Everybody is very proud - everyone at work, my family and friends - and it is great to be recognised for the hard work that I've put in so far."
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Automotive information at your fingertips
Times Guide For Mechanical Repairs
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Times Guide
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eventh Edition Mechanical Repairs Eleventh Edition was shed by the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce
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“Tech-Centre is not only able to help you with your technical repair issues but is able to provide the most relevant and accurate information every single time.” Mark Purnell M & J Auto Electrics Merrylands, NSW
For Mechanical Repairs Eleventh Edition
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Stuart Hunter Stuart Hunter Motors Moorabbin VIC
T
HERE’S JUST A couple of months to go until Christmas is once more upon us and, as always, we are certain that there a plenty of you out there who have yet to
M E M B E R S
E S S E N T I A L S
MT’s Christmas gift guide turn your mind to the thought of what gifts to get the family. So here are a few automotive-related gifts we’ve found from around the internet that might help out.
BLUEDRIVER BLUETOOTH PROFESSIONAL OBDII SCAN TOOL FOR IPHONE, IPAD & ANDROID ONCE UPON A time, popping the hood would divulge all the engine issues but nowadays it’s a little more involved than that. Just like mechanics use a scan tool to diagnose issues, you can now get a reliable, professional-quality scan tool to use at home. The device will read and clear trouble codes and comes with definitions, possible causes and fixes for each code. Simply attach the BlueDriver sensor to the car and use a smart device to get the readout. Price $100 plus $5.50 shipping. Available from www.amazon.com
KOGAN CAR DASH CAMERA VIDEO RECORDER (HD) UNFORTUNATELY, IT IS becoming more and more important to capture footage of vehicles, drivers and road conditions. This can be for many reasons but most commonly in the instance of an accident. The Dash Video Recorder is the perfect tool for protecting yourself from costly legal disputes if an incident occurs. The device records high definition video and audio, has night-vision infra-red technology and three power source options. Price: $49.00 plus free shipping to most areas in Australia. Available from www.kogan.com
MUSCLE CAR COUCHES A FANTASTIC AUSTRALIAN-made Christmas present from the muscle car era, these unique couches are made to the highest quality, using a hand-laid fiberglass process that ensures true body characteristics and originality as well as consistency. The assembly involves a rigorous and strict process to produce an impeccable finish which ensures long-term durability. The couch is also fitted with a low voltage lighting system to give it an authentic car look and will be the envy of all who visit! Price: from $3,500 plus shipping. Available from www.musclecarcouches.com.au
26 | Motor Trader October 2016
MOTORSPORT SHIRTS AND T-SHIRTS WITH A HUGE variety of styles and colours to choose from for women, men, children and infants, these t-shirts, collared shirts, long sleeve t-shirts and jumpers make a terrific set of gifts for a family of petrolheads. There is a vast selection of prints available including retro t-shirts and themed shirts featuring Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, Albert Park Legends Race, Australian Grand Prix Circuit Stats, Australian Grand Prix winners, Ayrton Senna, BMW, Cal Crutchlow, Casey Stoner, Dani Pedrosa, Dick Johnson, Ducati, Alex Marquez, Red Bull, Jack Daniels and heaps more. Price: range from $30-$150 plus shipping (free shipping on domestic orders over $99.99). Available from www.motorsportsuperstore.com.au
AUTO TIMING CHAIN AND GEARS WALL CLOCK HANDCRAFTED TIMEPIECES MADE in California, these industrial clocks are repurposed from an engine’s timing gear and chains. The creative designer, Steven Shaver, crafts home decor from salvaged gears, chains and more, for art and conversation. The clock features part numbers cast in the metal and industrial details unique to each piece. Price $180 + shipping costs to Australia. Available from www.uncommongoods.com
What has been your proudest business achievement to date? What is the best thing about working in your industry? The satisfaction of helping customers when needed.
What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given? Be honest with your customers and treat your staff with respect.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ?
Canelanders Auto Centre Location: Bundaberg Type of business: Mechanical Workshop/RACQ Breakdown Service Number of employees: 18 Trading since: 1975 MTAQ member since: 1975
Best money you can spend.
How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland? (MTAQ) Member of interstate association.
How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business? Availability of industry information, particularly industrial relations.
What has been your proudest business achievement to date? Taking over the business approximately 2 years ago and building the business with new customers.
What is the best thing about working in your industry? Being able to advise customers and keeping them safe on the roads.
What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given? Be honest with your customers and inform them as much as you can.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ?
Paul King Auto Repairs
Good for advice and support - just join. Location: Gympie Type of business: Mechanical Workshop Number of employees: 4
How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland? (MTAQ) The business has been a member for approximately 25 years.
Trading since: 1986
How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business?
MTAQ member since: 1991
Availability of industry information.
October 2016 Motor Trader | 27
E S S E N T I A L S
Being in business for 40 years.
M E M B E R S
Member profiles
E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S
Industrial relations “MEMBERS CAN REST
TED KOWALSKI INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS MANAGER
ABANDONMENT OF EMPLOYMENT We regularly hear from members who have had an employee go missing for a period of time without any indication from the employee that they intend to return. This can come about as a result of an altercation at the workplace or even following a performance management review. You cannot simply assume that the employee has abandoned their employment and must be pro-active in trying to verify their intentions. Attempts should be made via phone, text or email to confirm the employee’s
ASSURED THAT OUR REPRESENTATION OF THEIR INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS CONCERNS WILL CONTINUE UNCHANGED VIA OUR ALREADY ESTABLISHED AND CONTINUED REGISTRATION AS AN EMPLOYER ORGANISATION UNDER THE FEDERAL FAIR WORK SYSTEM.” intentions. If that fails, you should send the employee a registered letter indicating that unless you hear from them within, say, five days, you will assume they have no intention of returning and will treat the issue as an abandonment. For a confirmed abandonment, the employee has effectively left their employment without giving the required notice and hence this leaves them open to having the notice period deducted from their final pay.
UPDATE ON PROGRESS OF DEREGISTRATION PROCEEDINGS FOR OUR STATE REGISTERED ORGANISATION Over the last few months we have been seeking the views of members regarding our intention to have the State registered arm of the MTAQ deregistered. The continued existence of our State body became unnecessary when the industrial relations system covering the private sector was brought into the Federal arena under the Fair Work Act. The majority of members have indicated their support for this move and we will seek the final approval for our application to the State Industrial Relations Commission to achieve the deregistration at our Annual General meeting in October. Members can rest assured that our representation of their industrial relations concerns will continue unchanged via our already established and continued registration as an employer organisation under the Federal Fair Work system. Our ability to lobby government over industry employment related issues and to represent members in unfair dismissal matters, general protections claims, wage and discrimination/harassment/bullying claims will remain unaffected.
MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS Business Name
Principal/s
Address
Division
Albany Creek Auto Centre AOK Automotive Repairs Ascot Automotive Auto Service Plus Charleville Auto Care Pty Ltd Choice Barcaldine EVZ Spray Painting Harvey’s Mechanical & Welding Kratzmann Motors Kustom Specialty Car Services Paradise Auto Care Perry Autos Peugeotech Pty Ltd Red Dog Petroleum SRID Automotive Service Townsville Custom Cycles Ultra Tune Cairns
David McInnes Shane Schultz Les Maddison Rex Willis Matthew Elliot Stephen White Evandro Caprioli Bridie Andrishe Tana Palmer David Hall Yanki Zhu Anthony Perry Matthew Middleton Dianne Yorston Sripathy Kathiresan Leeroy Donovan Teresa Jacobsen
229 Leitchs Road, BRENDALE Q 4500 37 Randall Street, SLACKS CREEK Q 4127 Cnr Oriel & Kitchener Roads, ASCOT Q 4007 Unit 10/82 Redland Bay Road, CAPALABA Q 4157 Lot 2 Cadagi street, CHARLEVILLE Q 4470 2 Box Street, BARCALDINE Q 4725 5 Schmid Street, GARBUTT Q 4814 3820 Mount Lindsay Hwy, PARK RIDGE SOUTH Q 4125 Unit 2C/88 Lever Street, ALBION Q 4010 Shed 3/110 Raglan Street, ROMA Q 4455 3/7 Olympic Circuit, SOUTHPORT Q 4215 117-119 Edith Street, INNISFAIL Q 4860 Unit 1/14 Holland Street, NORTHGATE Q 4013 1256 Anzac Avenue, KALLANGUR Q 4503 10/47 Overload Place, ACACIA RIDGE Q 4110 88 Duckworth Street, GARBUTT Q 4814 55B Mulgrave Road, PARRAMATTA PARK Q 4870
admin@albanycreekauto.com.au Aokauto2@optusnet.com.au ascotautomotive@bigpond.com autoserviceplus@bigpond.com reception@crecharleville.com.au covenblue@yahoo.com.au evzspray@bigpond.net.au admin@harveysmechanical.com.au service@kratzmannmotors.com.au admin@kustomscs.net Paradiseautocare88@gmail.com tonyp@perryautos.com.au peugeotech@peugeotech.com.au Reddogpetroleum@gmail.com sridauto.serv@gmail.com Leeroy@townsvillecustomcycles.com.au teresa@aoc.net.au
AED AED AED AED AED SSCSAQ NACA AED AED AED AED QMDC AED SSCSAQ AED QMID AED
28 | Motor Trader October 2016
Investment matters
MARKET WRAP
G
LOBAL MARKETS WERE mixed throughout August, being dragged lower late in the month by US weakness given concerns around a rate rise from the Federal Reserve. US equities were flat (S&P 500 +0.1%) but European markets still finished higher, led by Germany (DAX +2.5%). Asia was strong with Hong Kong and China rising +5.0% and +3.6% respectively. The A$ finished the month flat against the US$ but dropped nearly 2c from its intra-month high following the Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen’s comments on potential US rate hike timing. This also weighed on commodity prices and they drifted lower toward the end of the month. The ASX 200 Accumulation Index closed down 1.6% for the month. Performance was dragged down by Telecommunications, Utilities and Industrials. Reporting season was the main focus with companies posting slightly better than expected earnings. Early in the month, the RBA cut its cash rate target by 25 basis points to 1.50%. This decision was supported by further downward revisions to the RBA’s inflation forecasts.. The market has enjoyed a good bounce since the Brexit low. We are seeing a range of mixed signals in markets and, in an uncertain world, it is likely that we will see an event to cause the market’s perception of risk to rise. However, given that the recession risk seems low and limited investment alternatives, we think any pullback will be shallow and present a buying opportunity. The reporting season was mixed this year with FY16 largely in line with expectations, but FY17 being
“THE MARKET HAS
ENJOYED A GOOD BOUNCE SINCE THE BREXIT LOW. WE ARE SEEING A RANGE OF MIXED SIGNALS IN MARKETS AND IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD, IT IS LIKELY THAT WE WILL SEE AN EVENT TO CAUSE THE MARKET’S PERCEPTION OF RISK TO RISE.” downgraded by 1.7%. The confession season in May had been unusually quiet with fewer negative surprises, which lured the market into a false sense of security heading into the reporting season. The actual results produced a similar number of disappointments as per usual but fewer positive surprises which left the market a little underwhelmed. Key observations from reporting season were:
• Large companies look notionally cheap and offer good yields but, in our view, reporting season didn’t suggest much in the way of improvement in earnings growth. • Banks are under margin pressure as competition and political scrutiny increases. • General insurers are facing competition from new entrants and the cycle remains challenging. • Telstra faces an earnings hole and is reinvesting to improve its competitive position. • Food retailers continue to have a competitive market with price deflation. • The outlook for resources looks a little better with costs coming out and improved balance sheets. • The domestic economy has held up well. The consumer environment has been reasonable (unemployment and interest rates are low) although some players experienced a slowdown late in the year during the election cycle. • Despite fears on the housing market, the sentiment was generally positive with defaults on settlements lower than expected. DISCLAIMER This document provides general information only and is not intended to be a recommendation to invest in any product or financial service mentioned above. Investment in a DNR Capital individually managed account can only be made on completion of all the required documentation. Whilst DNR Capital has used its best endeavours to ensure the information within this document is accurate it cannot be relied upon in any way and recipients must make their own enquiries concerning the accuracy of the information within.
October 2016 Motor Trader | 29
Concept corner
Maybach 6
MAYBACH’S LUXURY MONSTER
M
ERCEDES HAVE MADE some beautiful concept cars over the years but every now and again they can unveil a concept that is truly a showstopper. A case in point is this fantastic creation, the Maybach 6 - a concept which sports some of the most graceful lines ever. At six metres long, the Maybach is gigantic and with its long front-end, gullwing doors and ‘boat tail’ rear, has a brilliant mix of modern and retro styling. Designed as an all-electric vehicle with a drive system that produces 750hp, the company says it has a range of more than 500kms. Power comes from four electric motors at each wheel and the battery system allows for performance figures of 0-100km/h in under four seconds and a top speed of 250km/h. Inside, the Maybach has a truly futuristic feel and is loaded with 30 | Motor Trader October 2016
cutting edge digital features - the front windscreen, for example, serves as a transparent display with drivingrelated data and other info shown across its full width.
Though it's unlikely that the Maybach 6 will appear as a production model, we can always hope that this magnificent creation might one day prowl our roads.
AT SIX METRES LONG, THE MAYBACH IS GIGANTIC AND WITH ITS LONG FRONT-END, GULLWING DOORS AND ‘BOAT TAIL’ REAR, HAS A BRILLIANT MIX OF MODERN AND RETRO STYLING
October 2016 Motor Trader | 31
Auto news Volkswagen I.D.
VW REVEALS I.D. ELECTRIC CONCEPT I Website and marketing solutions
“I would recommend OurAuto to all automotive businesses that are looking for a professional service, a website that looks great and achieves solid results.” Stuart Hunter Stuart Hunter Motors, Moorabbin VIC
At OurAuto, we protect, inform and help automotive businesses around Australia grow, by providing trusted, tailored products and services.
1300 687 288 ourauto.com.au 32 | Motor Trader October 2016
T HASN'T BEEN a good year for Volkswagen. The emissions scandal put a mark against the company's good name and the turbulence from that scandal has still not settled. However, while that story rumbles on, VW has turned its considerable resources to a technology where emissions won't be an issue - all-electric cars. At the Paris Motor Show this month, the company unveiled the I.D. electric concept, a car that, VW says, can cover 400 to 600 kms on a single battery charge and will go into production in 2020 with an autonomous version to follow in 2025. The I.D. will be VW’s first compact concept car based on its new MEB, or Modular Electric Drive kit, that is designed as a purely electric vehicle architecture.
Its zero-emissions drive system consists of the electric motor, power electronics and transmission integrated in the rear axle, a highvoltage battery in the floor of the car and ancillary
equipment integrated in the front. The electric motor has a power output of 168 hp meaning the I.D. can reach 100 km/h in less than 8 seconds and reach a top speed of 160 km/h.
Industry insight
MAKING YOUR CASH FLOW! Y OU’VE PROBABLY HEARD the saying ‘Cash is King’ in the past. Cash is not King anymore… ‘Cash is now the whole Royal Family!’ We are hearing about businesses big and small struggling with cash flow and business insolvency on the rise. Business has had the benefit of good times in the past, with many saying they didn’t need to worry about profitability and managing cash flow. Now good times are not always certain for many business sectors, we need to focus more attention on tighter management of cash and profit. Cash flow problems often arise due to lack of understanding of how cash moves through a business and the difference between profit and cash flow. Here’s the difference between profit and Cash Flow:
such as bank borrowing, lending the business money, selling shares in the business to introduce more cash and so on. Alternatively you can better manage the factors affecting the shortfall.
THE FACTORS AFFECTING CASH These are sometimes referred to as ‘Drivers of Cash Flow’ and they are: • Revenue Growth – as you can see from the diagram, sales creates a need for cash . . . so it follows that the more sales you make the more cash you will need. This is an often misunderstood concept. Lots of sales are being made, but cash is getting tighter. Interestingly, a drop in revenue can
PROFIT VS CASH FLOW Aug 2016 Income
$1,000.00
Pay for Cost of Sales
Jul 2016
$500.00
$500.00
Cost of Sales $500.00
Pay for Overheads
Aug 2016
$300.00
$800.00
Gross Profit
$500.00
Receive Payment from Client Sep 2016
$1,000.00
$200.00
Overheads
$300.00
Net Profit
$200.00
PROFIT You can see on the left that the Income, Costs and Overheads are all accounted for in the same month and we show a nice profit of $200.
CASH FLOW On the right we can see that we had to pay for the costs before we actually made the sale. Costs might be products or labour and materials on a job. We also paid for the overheads in the month that we made the sale. Overheads are things like rent, admin wages, postage etc. We then had to wait until the month after we made the sale to get paid by the customer. Up to the month we made the sale we had paid $800 in costs and overheads before we had received a cent from our customer. We had to find $800 from somewhere to fund this sale. This is where many businesses get into trouble with cash flow. They don’t allow enough cash to cover the costs and overheads until the time they get paid by customers.
MANAGING CASH FLOW This demonstrates there is a need to handle the shortfall of $800. You can do this by various means
sometimes cause a short term improvement in cash, because less costs are being incurred to make the sales or inventory is being used up. • Costs and Overheads Percentage – the percentage of costs and overheads is important to know as well as the dollar value. This is because a percentage indicates how the costs and overheads are moving relative to the revenue. If you are selling more, but your costs and overheads are growing by more relatively, you aren’t really getting ahead. If your revenue is growing by 5%, but your costs and overheads are growing by 10% you are missing out on vital profits. • Price Change – if you don’t do regular small price increases, your margins are being eroded. Markets often influence pricing, but you need to find ways to increase the perceived value of your product or service to justify charging more. Regular small price increases are much easier to achieve than irregular big ones. Discounting is a hot topic at the moment, with many businesses offering them to retain business. Have you ever calculated how much more volume you need to sell to compensate for discounting? If you have gross profit of 60% and you offer a 10% discount, you need to sell 20% more volume
to maintain your 60% gross profit. It might be better to find a low cost addition to the sale with a higher perceived value than slashing your gross profit. • Accounts Receivable Days – this is the number of days ‘on average’ that customers are taking to pay you. This is quite different to the credit terms you offer. Anything you can do to reduce the number of days that customers are taking to pay you puts that cash into your bank account for longer. • Accounts Payable Days – this is the number of days ‘on average’ that you are taking to pay your suppliers. Anything you can do to lengthen the number of days you are taking to pay suppliers puts that cash into your bank account for longer. Obviously you need to manage this against the level of service you receive. Some suppliers are quite prepared to offer better terms to keep your business. • Inventory and Work in Progress Days – this is the number of days ‘on average’ that stock sits in store or jobs are in progress prior to invoicing. Try to think of stock as dollar bills piled up on the store room floor and ‘Work in Progress’ as dollar bills piled up on the work room floor. Anything you can do to shorten the time stock sits in store and jobs are able to be invoiced will put cash back into your bank account. If you can focus attention on better managing the above ‘Drivers’ of cash flow you may not have to borrow or sell shares in your business. Another really important aspect of cash flow management is forecasting. We often hear the question “How can I predict when I will receive cash from customers?” This is a common issue in small business, however you can start by plotting your costs and overheads in a spreadsheet and using that knowledge to calculate what cash you need to cover them. You can use prior knowledge of customer payment habits as well as making follow ups to get the money in quicker. If you forecast a shortfall in your cash position i.e. an overdraft or exceeding an overdraft, at least you are forewarned and can take action to avoid it. You can focus on selling more or collecting more quickly from customers. You can look at your purchasing of goods and services and time them to fit in better with your future cash position. It can be very tempting if a lump of money comes in to spend it on items that you feel are needed, but a forecast can often demonstrate a need down the track for the funds spent. For more information, go to businessnumbersmadeeasy.com
October 2016 Motor Trader | 33
Craig Lowndes, TeamVortex
The # 1 choice of TeamVortex and 40,000 other businesses Make it Yours
08/16
1300 362 415 mtaasuper.com.au
This document is issued by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) of Level 3, 39 Brisbane Avenue Barton ACT 2600, Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd and Members Equity Bank Limited. The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), an important document containing all the information you need to make a decision about MTAA Super, can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415 or visiting mtaasuper.com.au/handbooks. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.