Motor Trader e-magazine, November 2024

KIA UNWRAPS THE TASMAN UTE

+ FERRARI F80 SUPERCAR

+ MEET THE APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR FINALISTS

MTA QUEENSLAND

INDUSTRY MEETINGS

MTA QUEENSLAND hosts quarterly industry meetings for:

› AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE DEALER ASSOCIATION (NEW CAR DEALERS)

› AUTOMOTIVE ENGINEERS DIVISION (MECHANICAL REPAIRERS)

› AUTOMOTIVE PARTS RECYCLERS DIVISION (PARTS RECYCLERS)

› USED CAR DIVISION (USED CAR DEALERS)

› ENGINE RECONDITIONERS ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND (ENGINE RECONDITIONERS)

› NATIONAL AUTO COLLISION ALLIANCE (PAINT & PANEL / TOW TRUCKS)

› QUEENSLAND FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY DEALERS DIVISION (FARM & INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY)

› QUEENSLAND MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY DIVISION (MOTORCYCLES)

› RENTAL VEHICLE INDUSTRY DIVISION (RENTAL VEHICLES)

› SERVICE STATION & CONVENIENCE STORE ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND (SERVICE STATIONS)

› TYRE & UNDERCAR DIVISION OF QUEENSLAND (TYRES, BRAKES, SUSPENSIONS)

The Agenda topics include:

› robust discussions around the priorities of the Division,

› issues that need to be directly presented to government and submissions,

› skilling needs,

› membership representation,

› technical and educational updates, and

› innovation opportunities.

The industry meetings can be attended in-person at MTA Queensland or online. The meetings are open to members and non-members, but we strongly encourage membership to ensure all member benefits are available.

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Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

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

Evangeline Kannis

POLICY

Kellie Dewar, Deputy CEO MTA Queensland

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Email: jonathann@mtaq.com.au

EDITORIAL

Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information email the Editor at publications@mtaq.com.au

SUBSCRIPTION RATES

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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.

MTA QUEENSLAND ABN: 74 028 933 848

CORPORATE PARTNERS

From the Editor

JONATHAN NASH EDITOR

HELLO AND WELCOME

to the November 2024 edition of Motor Trader.

The announcement of the winners of the annual MTA Queensland Industry Awards will be made later this month.

In last month's edition of Motor Trader we took a look at the finalists across the five business award categories - the Community Award, Innovation award, Women In Industry Award, Small Business Award, and Large Business Award. This month we focus on the finalists for the Apprentice of the Year Award - 12 students, some now qualified tradespeople, from across auto industry sectors who proved to be outstanding students and employees as they worked through their apprenticeships. You can read their stories from page 56.

The announcement of all the award winners will be made at MTA Queensland's Industry

Award Dinner, to be held at the W Brisbane hotel on the evening of November 23. Also in this edition, we travel to the Gold Coast and the GC500 Supercars championship series race meeting at which MTA Queensland held the secondafter Townsville in July - of its Trackside Breakfast events. Bringing Association members together in the Pavilion x Piper-Heidsieck corporate suite overlooking the race circuit's pit lane, it was a fun morning and a time for members to relax and enjoy some good food and good company.

Later that morning, nine MTA Institute apprentices were hosted by the Gates Corporation at the Penrite Racing corporate suite and had the opportunity to take a tour around the team's racing garage and take a peek at its Ford Mustang race cars. It was quite a day and you can read more about it from page 12. Inside, as always, we also have our regular features and plenty of industry news. I hope you enjoy this month's edition.

Cheers

Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au

MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members

Search for MTA Queensland

FERRARI UNWRAPS THE F80 SUPERCAR

82

STUDENTS TACKLE VEHICLE WRAPPING AS MTAQ & AVERY DENNISON COLLABORATE ON TRAINING PROGRAM

6

MTA Q&A: DOMINIC AND PETA HOYAL, OWNERS OF DANNY WEST AUTOS AND ROB7 AUTOMOTIVE

CONCEPT CORNER: ALPINE A390_B SPORT FASTBACK

88

From the Desk of Management

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

BUILDING ON THE success of our Trackside Breakfast at the Townsville 500 earlier this year, MTA Queensland was thrilled to bring its popular event to the Gold Coast 500.

Held in the Pavilion x Piper-Heidsieck corporate suite, guests enjoyed a prime location above the team garages.

The atmosphere was electric, further energised by an engaging Q&A session featuring Penrite Racing Drivers Matt Payne and Richie Stanaway. These accomplished drivers shared thrilling insights from the track, providing attendees with a unique insider’s perspective on the world of racing. You can read more about the event from page 12.

Looking ahead, MTA Queensland is gearing up for its annual Industry Awards Gala. In just under a month, we’ll announce the 2024 award winners across various categories, celebrating the achievements of talented apprentices and successful business owners alike.

IN JUST UNDER A MONTH, WE’LL ANNOUNCE THE 2024 AWARD WINNERS ACROSS VARIOUS CATEGORIES, CELEBRATING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF TALENTED APPRENTICES AND SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS OWNERS ALIKE.

Continuing the Supercars theme, we’re excited to welcome guest speaker Will Brown, who is on the cusp of sealing a maiden Supercars championship after a remarkable performance at the Gold Coast 500. With Channel 7's Ben Davis as our MC, attendees can expect a lively Q&A session filled with insightful discussions. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic night, so grab your tickets!

We wish all finalists the best of luck and look forward to celebrating this year’s winners at the 2024 Industry Awards Gala!

KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES

THIS MONTH’S COLUMN is all about MTA Queensland’s upcoming Industry Awards Gala! Following last month’s edition of Motor Trader, which showcased the 2024 Award Finalists across various individual and business categories, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on the Apprentice of the Year category. This gala isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a celebration of the incredible new talent emerging in our industry!

APPRENTICES ARE THE FUTURE OF OUR INDUSTRY, AND MTA QUEENSLAND IS DEDICATED TO PROVIDING EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR MEMBERS WHILE ENSURING A ROBUST PIPELINE OF TALENT FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR.

This year, every finalist will receive a fantastic Repco 47-piece 3/8” Socket Set, while the lucky winner will be awarded Repco’s 27” 191 Piece Metric Tool Kit, fully equipped with all the essential tools they need to excel in their career. A heartfelt thank you to our tool sponsor, Repco, for their generous support!

But that’s not all! The winner will also enjoy an unforgettable opportunity: an all-expenses-paid trip to the Penrite Racing workshop in Melbourne, where they’ll gain invaluable hands-on experience working with one of the top Supercars teams for an entire week. This is truly a once-in-alifetime experience, made possible by Gates Australia.

Apprentices are the future of our industry, and MTA Queensland is dedicated to providing exciting opportunities for our members while ensuring a robust pipeline of talent for the automotive sector.

We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our apprentices at the gala and recognising the hard work and dedication that drives our industry forward! Don’t miss out, grab your tickets!

ROD CAMM

You could save on merchant fees^.

With Commonwealth Bank, MTAQ members can take advantage of preferential rates on credit and debit card merchant fees. Whether you’re a small or large business, the savings you could be making in merchant fees could be invested in other areas of your business, like purchasing equipment, employing staff or online marketing.

How much could you save?

When comparing credit and debit card merchant fee charges for MTAQ members versus non-members, the savings can be surprising. We have reviewed our merchant base^ for the industry and found that on average, members processing less than $500000 could save up to 23%.^

We can easily create a customised comparison for your business, by simply providing us your Merchant statement for one whole month.

With Commonwealth Bank, MTAQ can also take advantage of our latest technology with either an Essential Lite or Essential Plus device, no contracts and 24/7 support.

Here for you, for however you do business.

To find out how much you could save with Commonwealth Bank, contact MTAQ on 07 3237 8777 or email info@mtaq.com.au and they'll put you in touch with a Commonwealth Bank Relationship Manager.

MTA |Q&A

WORDS & IMAGES : LARA WILDE

Under the business banner of Lightning McQueen Services, Dominic Hoyal and wife Peta operate two workshops in Cairns - Danny West Autos in Manunda and Rob7 Automotive in Bungalow. Motor Trader took time to visit Dominic and Peta to learn about the evolution of their business.

DOMINIC WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY?

DH: I have been working on engines for well over 20 years. I started my apprenticeship with Irelands of Cairns back in 1997 and after my apprenticeship I took the opportunity to work at an approved RACQ mechanical workshop that also serviced outboards.

Taking a slightly different path, I then worked for a popular and successful motorcycle business as service manager, which I loved. In that job I learned a lot about people, team dynamics, customers and rode motorbikes on weekends. I fell in love with riding motorcross and represented Queensland at enduro events. I still haven't given up that hobby.

Dominic and Peta Hoyal, owners of Danny West Autos and Rob7 Automotive

WE OFFER ROAD WORTHY CERTIFICATE INSPECTIONS, CERTIFICATE OF INSPECTION FOR COMMERCIAL VEHICLES, AIR CONDITIONING MAINTENANCE AND

REPAIRS, TYRES, AUTO ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIRS.

For 12 years, I took a career hiatus and worked in Real Estate, which emphasised the importance of building relationships and customer service.

When I learned that Danny West was retiring in 2018, I took the plunge, bought his business, and haven't looked back. It is funny how the wheel does a full circle.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN ESTABLISHED?

DH: Although Danny West Autos was originally established in 2005, we only purchased the business six years ago when Danny retired from the industry. We are lucky to have Danny frequent the

workshops for a chat and casual work on the tools from time to time.

In March of this year, we purchased Rob7 Automotive which was established by former owners Rob and Alex. Rob7 has had a logo birthday recently and we are superpleased with the new design thanks to Rhonda and Bernard from Visual Imaging.

TELL US ABOUT THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES YOU OFFER BETWEEN THE TWO WORKSHOPS?

DH: Both workshops focus on light vehicle servicing and fleet maintenance. We offer Road Worthy Certificate inspections, Certificate of Inspection for commercial vehicles, air conditioning maintenance and repairs, tyres, auto electrical diagnosis and repairs.

ARE YOU STILL HANDS ON IN THE BUSINESS TODAY?

DH: Absolutely! But in a different capacity than on the tools. I feel it is important to be a good leader and lead by example when needed.

The team will always come to me when they have a query or need to bounce ideas.

Danny West Autos, Manunda, Cairns

make it my priority if there is an issue at any time to ensure the customer is happy and feels valued.

I do like to keep a tidy and safe workshop, so I am very hands on when it comes to that. It is important to me that both teams can function without me on a day-to-day basis. My wife and I can fit in and cover every aspect of the business should someone be on leave.

WHO IS IN YOUR CURRENT TEAM?

DH: At Danny West Autos, our team is led by Chris, who is my right-hand man and has continued to impress me with his abilities as a tradesman and is developing as a leader. He has a passion for all things Euro and is also a computer wizard.

Lovely Lyn looks after all things admin and accounts and puts up with my questions and messy handwriting. I'd be lost without her and her attention to detail.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO ME THAT BOTH TEAMS CAN FUNCTION WITHOUT ME ON A DAY-TODAY BASIS. MY WIFE AND I CAN FIT IN AND COVER EVERY ASPECT OF THE BUSINESS SHOULD SOMEONE BE ON LEAVE.

Chris C is our 4WD guru, a solid, reliable worker and all-round team player. Never does he come to work unhappy.

Heath is our pocket rocket, fourth-year apprentice with a super-charged work ethic. There's nothing he won't tackle. He also loves his fishing. Jaxon is our secondyear apprentice and is quickly absorbing all he can from the team.

Logan is our school-based apprentice and is ready to step into full-time work next year. He has such potential and a great approach to work and life. We can’t wait to

The team at Rob7 Automotive: Ralph, Jacob, Josh, Peta, Dominic, Hayden, and Gavin

see him go from good to great next year.

At Rob7, it’s run a little different. Gavin looks after the bookings, parts and customers. He is a wealth of information and loves his coffee.

Josh is our Leading Hand and has been with Rob7 for several years. He is a great tradesman, is solution focused, considerate of others and his maturity exceeds his years. Ralph has joined the Rob7 team from over at Danny West Autos and is happiest when working on old-school vehicles. Jake is our casual and brings the good tunes and extra laughs when he is back from FIFO life to join our team.

John is a fourth-year apprentice and has a contagious laugh. He is passionate about his road bike and footy, and Hayden is our school-based apprentice and ready to step into a full-time apprenticeship. He is quickly learning how to keep things super clean and tidy.

WHAT TRAINING DO YOU DO WITH STAFF?

DH: Our apprentices are continually studying, and our tradesmen engage in courses that are relevant to the changes in technology - both office software, systems and vehicles. This year our team have successfully obtained EV qualifications, a RW licence, and obtained a trade qualification - converting via Recognition of Prior Learning from Europe to Australia. Each year we host work experience students from local high schools to give them an opportunity to see if they are on the right career path.

WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGES?

DH: Quality control - making sure that the quality of our workmanship is upheld consistently, day after day, job after job.

WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE GREATEST ADVANCEMENT IN TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR BUSINESS?

The team at Danny West Autos: Lyn, Jaxon, Chris, Logan, Chris C, Heath, and Dominic

MY WIFE AND I ARE KEEN TO CONTINUOUSLY IMPROVE OUR BUSINESSES, UPSKILL OUR EMPLOYEES, AND PROVIDE A GOOD SERVICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS.

DH: One of the greatest advancements is scan tools. They are an essential tool for diagnosis.

The internet and instructional YouTube videos provide valuable insight as to what people have tried and tested. I am a believer that you will never know everything, and there is never just one way to skin a cat.

DO YOU CONSIDER THAT THE ADVANCEMENTS IN ELECTRIC VEHICLES WILL HAVE AN IMPACT ON YOUR BUSINESS?

DH: Yes, for sure in the long term, particularly for servicing. At this stage in Far North Queensland the uptake is slower than metropolitan areas, but our employees are trained in electric and hybrid vehicle systems.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST BENEFIT OF YOUR MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERSHIP?

DH: The regular updates of changes to industry and legislation, and access to the business portal.

DO YOU SPONSOR ANY LOCAL MOTORSPORT AND INDIVIDUAL COMPETITORS?

DH: We sponsor local motorcross events, and also mountain biking events, including the Cairns St Augustine's High School mountain bike team, and the Atherton Mountain Goats Elev8 mountain bike event each year.

We also provide a complimentary servicing for the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation vehicles in support of the Cardiac Challenge (a bike ride from Cairns to Cooktown) held each September.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE NEXT FEW YEARS?

DH: My wife and I are keen to continuously improve our businesses, upskill our employees, and provide a good service to our customers. We are keen to develop our employees through on-the-job training and any other relevant training. I am also in the process of obtaining my motorcycle mechanical licence so we can provide a comprehensive service for two-wheeled customers as well.

Being “green” and “environmentally responsible” isn’t traditionally linked to the auto industry. However, we are motivated to improve our current green credentials and practices.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A YOUNG YOU STARTING OUT IN THE INDUSTRY?

DH: Be patient and communicate well. Look after your customers, understand what motivates your staff. It is important to understand that they don't know what you do, nor do they see things through your eyes.

BACK IN JULY, MTA Queensland held its Trackside Breakfast event at the Townsville leg of the 2024 Repco Supercars Championship.

A tremendous success, the Association was back at Supercars in October with another Trackside Breakfast, this time at the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500.

HELD ON A GLORIOUSLY SUNNY FRIDAY IN THE PAVILION X PIPERHEIDSIECK CORPORATE SUITE OVERLOOKING PIT LANE – AROUND 60 MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERS AND GUESTS ATTENDED THE BREAKFAST

. . .

Held on a gloriously sunny Friday in the Pavilion x Piper-Heidsieck corporate suite overlooking pit lane – around 60 MTA Queensland members and guests attended the breakfast to meet, network, and enjoy the company of other members, industry stakeholders, and MTA Queensland representatives and executives, as well as enjoy some good food, drink and a day packed with the spectacle of support category races and Supercar practice sessions.

Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland and Paul Peterson, Chairman of the Association were in attendance, and a special treat for guests was the appearance

of Penrite Racing team drivers Matt Payne and Richie Stanaway, both of whom gave some insights into the world of Supercars and motorsport and enjoyed some fun back and forth banter with guests during a short Q&A session.

When addressing the event attendees, Paul Peterson highlighted how the Gold Coast Trackside Breakfast, and the Townsville event that preceded it, are just part of a broader effort by MTA Queensland to encourage the participation of, and engagement with, members. Those efforts included not just networking events, but new initiatives and programs to reach out to women, minority groups, and young people and encourage and support them to get involved with the automotive industry.

“The MTA Queensland Board is dedicated to enhancing the opportunities for engagement and ensuring both metropolitan and regional areas have a voice and access to valuable resources,” he said.

“Over the past year, we have launched several exciting initiatives to support our members and strengthen our industry. From workforce programs that broaden the talent pipeline to advocacy on key

VIDEO: MTA QUEENSLAND'S GC500 TRACKSIDE BREAKFAST

issues affecting . . . you, our members.

This year has also brought new opportunities with Auto Women initiatives, and the event now goes from Brisbane, Cairns, Gladstone, Mackay, Townsville and the Gold Coast. we are immensely proud of this program and we are eager to keep the momentum going.

“Additionally, we have expanded our member offerings through new partnerships provide valuable benefits for business. For instance, we now have an

“OVER THE PAST YEAR, WE HAVE LAUNCHED SEVERAL EXCITING INITIATIVES TO SUPPORT OUR MEMBERS AND STRENGTHEN OUR INDUSTRY.”

exclusive pricing deal with Officeworks . . . and an exciting opportunity for apprentices through Gates Australia. There is truly something for everyone.”

Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland

Paul Peterson, Chairman of MTA Queensland

Mr Camm added that MTA Queensland was guided by the engagement it had with its members and that the challenges being set by an industry going through such technological advances makes such engagement more crucial than ever. The Trackside Breakfasts were, he noted, a fun and important addition to the growing list of events and programs the Association had launched, or in which it was taking part.

“We are 100 per cent committed to our members . . .” said Rod Camm as he addressed guests at the Breakfast. “This is our second event, and the reason we do them is that when we talk to members, we said, ‘What do you want?’, and they said, ‘We’d like to have networking events, but at events we’d like to go to.’

“So we are trialling this sort of event, we’d love your feedback, and we think it’s really exciting.”

Penrite Racing team drivers Richie Stanaway and Matt Payne

While the Trackside Breakfast was the focus early on Friday morning, attention shifted later to the Penrite Racing/Grove Racing suite where Gates Corporation –sponsors of the Penrite team and a leading manufacturer of application-specific fluid power and power transmission solutions –was hosting some of MTA Queensland and the MTA Institute’s talented apprentices.

The nine apprentices were able to experience not only the very pleasant

“THAT WAS PRETTY INSIGHTFUL TO SEE WHAT GOES INTO THE SUPERCARS BEHIND THE SCENES . . . IT’S PRETTY STREAMLINED CONSIDERING IT TAKES THEM ONLY FOUR HOURS TO SET THE WHOLE GARAGE UP.”

surroundings of the Penrite corporate suite and its birds-eye view of pit lane, but also got to meet and chat with Oscar Targett, the 18-year-old driver for the Grove Junior Team who is one of motorsport’s rising stars and has just been crowned the series champion in the 2024 Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia. Also on the schedule was the opportunity to take a tour around the Penrite racing garage and take a peek at the awesome Ford

VIDEO: GATES APPRENTICE EXPERIENCE AT THE GC500

Grove Racing driver Oscar Targett (right) gave the MTA Queensland apprentices insights into the world of motorsport

Mustang supercars the team runs in the Supercar championship series.

For Harrison McLean, a 25-year-old light vehicle apprentice with Hammond 4WD Centre in Capalaba, attending the Gates event was pretty exciting, not least because he is a fan of the Penrite team and its drivers.

“I do actually follow Ford and Penrite racing, and I am a big fan of Richie Stanaway himself,” he said, before adding that the chance to see the team’s cars in the pit garage as they were being prepared for the track, was a proper thrill.

“That was pretty insightful to see what goes into the Supercars behind the scenes . . . it’s pretty streamlined considering it takes them only four hours to set the whole garage up.”

This is the second time that MTA Institute apprentices have had the opportunity to attend the Gold Coast Supercars event and tour the pit lane garage as guests of the Gates Corporation. MTA Queensland and Gates also partnered on organising the opportunity in 2023, and Gates also arranged the Penrite Workshop Experience – the week-long work experience that is the awesome prize for MTA Queensland’s

“THEY ARE THE BACKBONE OF OUR INDUSTRY IN THE LONG TERM, AND IT'S NICE TO GIVE THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO JUST SEE WHAT ELSE IS OUT THERE BESIDES THE DAYTO-DAY GRIND OF THE WORKSHOP.”

Apprentice of the Year winner.

Those two opportunities are part of a wider program that Gates has instigated to engage with, and encourage, young apprentices who are just beginning their automotive industry careers.

“For gates, we see them as the future of the industry,” said Priscilla Robb, Marketing Manager of Gates. “They are the backbone of our industry in the long term, and it's nice to give them the opportunity to just see what else is out there besides the day-to-day grind of the workshop.

“We really want to keep and retain apprentices in this industry,” she added. “It's really important and Gates is proud to partner with and do things with industry associations to help keep them here.”

• The Trackside Breakfast and Gates Apprentice Experience took place on the Friday before the main races of the Gold Coast 500. For the record, Cam Waters of Monster Castrol Racing was victorious in Race One, with Brodie Kostecki of Erebus Motorsport taking the honours in Race Two. The Championship leaderboard is still topped by Will Brown of Red Bull Ampol Racing with just one event - the season finale at the Adelaide 500 - left to go.

QUEENSLAND THANKS APPRENTICE EVENT SPONSOR GATES CORPORATION

WOMEN

Auto Women is a supportive group that:

Raises the profile of women in the automotive industry

Advocates for women in the automotive industry on key issues to government

Promotes career opportunities for women and the advantages of diversity to employers

Hosts virtual and in-person networking and social events that educate, connect and support women

Provides career enhancement courses and scholarships

Providing

Attracting

Auto innovation news

KIA INTRODUCES ACCESSORY MADE USING RECYCLED PLASTIC FROM OCEAN GARBAGE PATCH

KIA CORPORATION HAS developed a trunk-liner accessory made from plastic extracted from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP) – a vast collection of debris currently polluting that ocean – by The Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit environmental group dedicated to developing and scaling technologies to rid the world’s oceans of plastic.

As one of the most significant outcomes of the partnership so far, Kia will introduce the trunk liner for the new Kia EV3, The accessory will be available for EV3 in selected markets and available to order in line with the model’s market introduction.

Made with 40 per cent recycled ocean plastic, the trunk liner is, the company says, just as durable, protective and functional as a conventional trunk liner.

The Ocean Cleanup reclaims plastic from the ocean, separates the catch with fibrous material, such as fishing nets, sorted by type of plastic and colour. It is then processed using recycling technology and the material is then shredded, washed, dried and regranulated into plastic pellets. Those pellets are then delivered to Kia.

“As the first genuine Kia accessory made using reclaimed ocean plastic, we are proud to see tangible progress made toward creating a circular resource system for ocean plastic,” said Charles Ryu, Executive Vice President and Head of

MADE WITH 40 PER CENT RECYCLED OCEAN PLASTIC, THE TRUNK LINER IS, THE COMPANY SAYS, JUST AS DURABLE, PROTECTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL AS A CONVENTIONAL TRUNK LINER.

the Global Brand & CX Division, Kia. “We will leverage the lessons learned during the recycling and product development process to continue to manufacture useful and beneficial products for our customers using ocean plastic retrieved and provided by The Ocean Cleanup.”

Kia says it has pledged to increase the use of sustainable materials in its future products and raise application of recycled plastic in vehicles to more than 20 per cent by 2030.

MERCEDES AIMS TO CLOSE BATTERY LOOP WITH RECYCLING FACTORY

MERCEDES-BENZ HAS OPENED its first battery recycling plant with an integrated mechanical-hydrometallurgical process. This makes it, the company says, the first car manufacturer worldwide to close the battery recycling loop with its own inhouse facility.

The company says the expected recovery rate of the recycling plant – located in Kuppenheim, southern Germany –is more than 96 percent.

The battery recycling plant covers all steps from shredding battery modules to drying and processing active battery materials. The mechanical process sorts and separates plastics, copper, aluminium and iron. The downstream hydrometallurgical process is dedicated to the so-called black mass. These are the active materials that make up the

THE COMPANY SAYS THE EXPECTED RECOVERY RATE OF THE RECYCLING PLANT

– LOCATED IN KUPPENHEIM, SOUTHERN GERMANY – IS MORE THAN 96 PERCENT.

electrodes of the battery cells. The valuable metals cobalt, nickel and lithium are extracted individually. These are of battery quality and, the company says, are suitable for use in the production of new battery cells.

The company adds that the hydrometallurgical process is less intensive in terms of energy consumption and material waste. It is supplied with 100 per cent green electricity.

Mercedes-Benz’s technology partner for the battery recycling factory is Primobius,

a joint venture between German plant and mechanical engineering company SMS group and Australian process technology developer Neometals. The plant is receiving funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action as part of a scientific research project with three German

GM VENTURES INVESTS $10 MILLION TO PURSUE IMPROVED BATTERIES

GM VENTURES – the venture capital arm of General Motors – is to invest $10 million ($AU15.1 million) in Forge Nano, a materials science company specialising in atomic layer deposition. The companies have also entered a strategic partnership agreement to collaborate on potential applications of the technology for GM batteries.

universities. The project looks at the entire process chain for recycling, including logistics and reintegration concepts. The recycling plant has an annual capacity of 2,500 tonnes and the recovered materials feed into the production of more than 50,000 battery modules for new allelectric Mercedes-Benz models.

Atomic layer deposition is a surface engineering technique that applies thin-film coatings to battery materials

to control chemistry and structure at atomic scale. Forge Nano will develop thin-film coatings for GM to pursue battery performance enhancements and cost reductions. Forge Nano will also build prototype lithium-ion battery cells to showcase the capabilities of its tech.

Mercedes-Benz battery recycling plant, Kuppenheim, Germany

BOSTON DYNAMICS & TOYOTA RESEARCH INSTITUTE

PARTNER ON ROBOTICS

BOSTON DYNAMICS AND Toyota Research Institute (TRI) are to partner to accelerate the development of general-purpose humanoid robots using TRI’s Large Behaviour Models (LBM) and Boston Dynamics’ Atlas robot.

The is, the companies say, an ideal platform for advancing the science of AI-based manipulation skills. The project will allow research teams to deploy the robot across a range of tasks and collect data on its performance. That data will be used to support the training of advanced LBMs and demonstrate that large, pre-trained models can enable the rapid acquisition of new wholebody skills.

ABB LAUNCHES NEW & MORE EFFICIENT PAINT ATOMIZER

SWISS TECHNOLOGY COMPANY,

ABB, has launched a new paint atomizer that it say can deliver major efficiency and cost saving benefits to paint shops – a move that should appeal to manufacturers looking to reach carbon neutral status in the future.

ABB says the RB 1000i-S, when mounted on top of the ABB robot, also improves transfer efficiency by upwards of 10 per cent, and can significantly reduce paint waste by a minimum of 30 per cent along with carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, compared to its predecessor, the RB 1000i.

Cost savings can, the company claims, be significant. Where a manufacturer utilises a 2.5-litre paint solvent per car and produces 200,000 cars per factory annually, the RB 1000i-S paint atomizer can help to save 50,000 litres of paint per factory.

The joint team will also conduct research to answer fundamental training questions for humanoid robots, the ability of research models to leverage whole-body sensing, and understanding humanrobot interaction.

BENZINA ZERO SCOOTERS TO BE USED IN DISASTER ZONE RELIEF SYSTEM

BENZINA ZERO - the Brisbane-based international distributor of electric scooters, motorbikes, and bikes and member of MTA Queensland – has announced it is to partner with U.S. company Beam Global on its water desalination and e-mobility system.

The BeamWell system is selfsufficient and self-contained and is designed for use in war zones and remote or disaster areas where only salt, brackish or dirty water is available. It provides three essential services to regions in such crisis: it turns seawater into fresh water, which is then stored in an integrated 3000-litre tank that is replenished daily; it provides a source of electricity; and it charges four integrated Benzina Zero Duo electric mopeds for the rapid distribution of food, water, medications or other vital resources.

Powered by Beam Global’s EV ARC platform, the system deploys in minutes with no construction, no electrical work and no requirement for any supporting infrastructure.

The Benzina Zero Duo models are to be supplied via the Australian company’s Italian arm, and in its basic variant has a 60v 42Ah (2.52kWh) battery offering a range of 105km. Energy runs to a Bosch motor and top speed is 50km/h.

“Not only is the Duo highly versatile and configurable but is incredibly

“WE ARE HUMBLED TO BE ABLE TO ASSIST BEAMWELL TO SUPPORT THE REGIONS THAT ARE SUFFERING THROUGH NATURAL DISASTERS AND CONFLICTS.”

robust, extremely energy efficient and perfect for the most challenging delivery environments,” said Joe D'Ercole, Benzina Zero’s Chief Battery Charger. “We are humbled to be able to assist BeamWell to support the regions that are suffering through natural disasters and conflicts. Being able to leverage our European headquarters in Italy and our global distributor network allows us to deploy Benzina Zero Duo units rapidly."

A rendering of the Beamwell system with Benzina Zero Duo e-scooters

Auto news KIA UNWRAPS THE TASMAN UTE

AFTER WHAT SEEMED to be a very long tease, Kia has finally taken the wraps off its first pickup ute – the Tasman – and is ready to take on the big boys of Toyota and Ford in what is Australia’s most popular new-vehicle segment.

It’s an intriguing debut from Kia, not least because of the Tasman’s looks, which seem like wild departure from what has emerged from other manufacturers.

But while its styling may evoke admiration or frowns – beauty is, after all, in the eye of the beholder - Kia is a major player and the fundamentals of the Tasman are bound to be rock solid.

In the Australian market, the Tasman will feature a 155kW/441Nm, 2.2-litre diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Kia says this will get the Tasman from 0-100km/h in 10.4 seconds, while top speed peaks at 185km/h.

In other regions, customers will be

able to choose between the 2.2-litre diesel with either an 8-speed auto or 6-speed manual transmission (depending on the market), and a 2.5-litre petrol engine equipped with an eightspeed automatic transmission.

Kia says that using an optimised composite bush structure to mount the Tasman’s body to the ladder-frame chassis ensures improved rigidity, body control, stability and comfort. The company adds that the double wishbone front suspension units have been developed to improve ride and handling in all conditions. The rear features a rigid axle

Kia Tasman

with leaf springs, incorporating vertically mounted shock absorbers. Kia’s frequency selective Sensitive Damper Control (SDC) and Hydraulic Rebound Stop technology is included here.

At the ute’s global launch, Kia revealed the Tasman is available as a double-cab Base model, or in X-Line and X-Pro trim models.

The Base model will be available in 4x2 or 4x4 variants while the X-Line and X-Pro will be 4x4 only.

Kia says the AWD system switches automatically to the configuration required to provide optimum traction on different road surfaces and offers three driving modes – ECO, Smart and Sport – with various terrain modes available within these settings.

The X-Pro model provides an additional Rock mode, specifically designed to enhance performance on challenging mountainous terrains. In Australia, AWD variants will be equipped with Sand, Mud, Snow and Rock modes. IN THE AUSTRALIAN MARKET, THE TASMAN WILL FEATURE A 155KW/441NM, 2.2-LITRE

Auto news

Further enhancements to the X-Pro variant include an automatically engaging rear Electronic Locking Differential (e-LD) and X-Trek mode. X-Trek mode enables the vehicle to maintain a low speed off-road without the need for manual acceleration or braking.

A Ground View Monitor (GVM), which uses the Tasman’s camera and infotainment screens, shows what is going on at ground level.

The X-Pro provides gets 28mm higher ground clearance over the Base and X-Line variants and is equipped with 17-inch gloss-black wheels and all-terrain tyres. The X-Line features 18-inch alloy wheels paired with highway and terrain tyres.

Kia says it will provide customisable chassis cab variants to meet specific business needs, along with single cab options that optimise bed space by reconfiguring the passenger compartment into a single row layout.

The Kia Tasman will be offered with four bed accessory configurations: Single Decker, Double Decker, Sports Bar and Ladder Rack, with the first three available immediately from launch. In addition, there will be a total of 13 accessory products offered , including two types of side steps and beadlock-style wheels.

All Kia Tasman variants can ford water

THAT INCORPORATES 12.3-INCH INFOTAINMENT DISPLAY, A 5-INCH CLIMATE CONTROL PANEL, AND A 12.3-INCH DRIVER INFO DISPLAY.

up to 800mm deep at a speed of 7km/h.

Since utes are used as much for business as for charging around the outback, Kia says there are plenty of features here for the tradesperson.

The load bed is 1512 mm long, 1572 mm wide (1,186 mm between the wheels), and 540 mm deep, which Kia says provides best-in-class cargo capability of 1173 litres. Maximum payload is 1195kg in 2WD mode, in addition to a 3,500kg towing capacity.

A power outlet for hand tools or laptops, and a sliding cargo floor are offered as optional features. Inside, there’s a folding console table.

As can be expected in any new vehicle, safety and driver assistance features are plentiful. The Tasman’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) offer features such as lane keeping assist, blind spot collision warning and remote

be incorporated into the pickup’s ADAS, which then automatically optimises driving characteristics accordingly.

In the cabin, there’s a wide display that incorporates 12.3-inch infotainment display, a 5-inch climate control panel, and a 12.3inch driver info display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is standard.

There are dual wireless charging pads and hidden storage bins concealed beneath the rear seats offering storage capacity of 33 litres. The rear seats are able to recline between 22 and 30 degrees.

The Tasman is available in nine colours: Clear White, Snow Pearl White, Steel Gray, Interstellar Gray, Cityscape Green, Runway Red, Aurora Black Pearl, Tan Beige, and Denim Blue.

Interior trim is available in five colorways: Onyx Black/Medium Gray, Espresso Brown/ Onyx Black, and Deep Green/Medium Gray. X-Line and X-Pro model customers can choose two-tone colour options, including Onyx Black/Medium Gray and Deep Green/ Terracotta Brown.

The Kia Tasman will initially launch in the Korean domestic market during the first half of 2025 before arriving in Australia, Africa and the Middle East.

HYUNDAI TO OFFER THE MORE RUGGED INSTER CROSS EV

HYUNDAI HAS ANNOUNCED

that the Inster Cross, a new variant of the Inster – a small, electric SUV already announced to be heading Australia’s way soon – will be available in the first quarter of 2025.

The Inster Cross will feature more outdoor-focused exterior and interior design elements, and will come with wide, rectangular front and rear bumpers as well as embossed black claddings. The front and rear skid plates, coupled with the side rocker panels with complimentary 17-inch alloy wheels, provide extra protection when driving over rough roads. Roof racks will be standard with the option to add a roof basket.

The crossover variant will be offered in an exclusive exterior colour - Amazonas Green Matte - as well as the five colours available for the Inster.

Inside, the Inster Cross will offer a special colour and trim combination: grey cloth with lime-yellow accents, and limeyellow accents on the dashboard.

Hyundai announced a few months ago that the Inster would be available with either a 42kWh or 49kWh Long Range battery set-up and will offer a projected range of 355km (WLTP) on a single charge for the Long Range variant. Both models are powered by a single motor delivering 71.1kW in the base variant and 84.5kW in the Long-Range. Both versions deliver 147Nm of torque.

When using a 120kW DC charging

station, Inster can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes. It comes equipped with an 11kW onboard charger as standard. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality is available.

The Inster also offers an ADAS package that includes Highway Driving Assist 1.5, Smart Cruise Control, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5. All seats in the Inster can be folded flat, and there is walk-through access in the front row, and 50/50 split second-row seats that can slide and recline.

Hyundai Inster Cross

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JAECOO TO LAUNCH WITH J7 SUV IN EARLY 2025

JAECOO, A PREMIUM sub-brand of Chery, will launch into Australia in early 2025 with its debut model the J7, a mid-sized SUV.

The J7 will be available in 2WD and AWD variants with power coming from a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine producing 137kW/275Nm. Power runs through a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard.

Jaecoo says the J7 will have power-adjustable front seats; an electric tailgate; a 14.8-inch LCD touchscreen; a 360-degree panoramic camera system; wireless smartphone charging; 19inch alloy wheels; LED headlamps; 8 airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag); and several advanced safety features.

Jaecoo also announced the J5 will be headed to the local market.

A compact SUV, the J5 will offer plenty of features, including a 13.2-inch touchscreen with integrated entertainment applications and smart navigation. A large panoramic sunroof will be available.

Jaecoo will reveal additional J7 details related to specification and pricing closer to the on-sale date in the first quarter of 2025. Local specification for the J5 has yet to be finalised.

Jaecoo J7

UNWRAPS THE FERRARI

FERRARI CALLS IT a Supercar, but its appearance, styling and, crucially, its performance, would appear to place it firmly in the realm of the Hypercar. What else to call the F80, a new performance monster from the Italian manufacturer that, with an 800-volt V6 hybrid powertrain, pumps out 883kW and 850Nm, can sprint to 100km/h in 2.15 seconds, and can stretch its legs to reach a top speed of 350km/h.

To be produced in a limited run of 799 examples, the all-wheel-drive F80 is a bit special, even for Ferrari.

There’s technology here that is peeled from Formula One. Power comes from a 3-litre twin-turbo V6, which itself produces 671kW, paired with an electric front axle (e-4WD) and rear motor that add another 221kW. The turbos are e-turbos which allow for the elimination of turbo lag. The front

F80 SUPERCAR FERRARI

AERODYNAMICS PLAY A KEY ROLE ON THE F80. THERE’S AN ACTIVE REAR WING, REAR DIFFUSER, FLAT UNDERBODY, FRONT TRIPLANE WING AND S-DUCT WORKING IN CONCERT TO GENERATE 1000KG OF DOWNFORCE AT 250 KM/H.

axle includes two e-motors and there’s that e-motor at the rear. These motors boost the power output of the V6 and recharge the 2.28kWh battery.

The hybrid powertrain of the F80 offers three different driving modes - Hybrid, Performance and Qualify. There is no eDrive – electric-only – mode.

Aerodynamics play a key role on the F80. There’s an active rear wing, rear diffuser,

Ferrari F80

flat underbody, front triplane wing and S-Duct working in concert to generate 1000kg of downforce at 250 km/h. There’s also active suspension, which contributes directly to generating ground effect.

The system features independent suspension all round actuated by four 48V electric motors, a double wishbone layout, active inboard dampers and upper wishbones created with 3D printing and additive manufacturing tech - used here for the first time on a Ferrari road car.

The tub and other elements of the chassis of the F80 were developed using a multi-material approach. The cell and roof are made of carbon fibre and other composites, while the front and rear

BUTTERFLY DOORS ARE USED AND THE SUBSTRUCTURE OF THE DOORS, A STRUCTURAL ELEMENT ALSO TASKED WITH ABSORBING DYNAMIC LOADS IN THE EVENT OF LATERAL IMPACT, IS CONSTRUCTED FROM SPECIAL HIGHPERFORMANCE CARBON FIBRE.

subframes are made of aluminium and are fastened to the tub with titanium screws. At the rear there is an additional aluminium subframe, fastened to the main rear subframe with screws, for carrying the

battery. The bodyshell is fabricated from pre-preg carbon fibre.

Butterfly doors are used and the substructure of the doors, a structural element also tasked with absorbing dynamic loads in the event of lateral impact, is constructed from special high-

performance carbon fibre.

There’s interesting stuff going inside the F80, with the cockpit inspired by a single-seat racer and resulting in a creative seating concept. Then passenger seat is set farther back than the driver’s seat, and the driver’s seat gets more space.

The F80 boasts a new steering wheel developed specifically for this car. Slightly smaller than its predecessor and with flattened top and bottom rims, there are physical buttons on the right- and left-hand spokes, replacing the full-digital layout used by Ferrari in recent years.

The F80 is equipped as standard with all the main ADAS driver assist functions currently available including Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go function; Automatic Emergency Brake; Lane Departure Warning; Lane Keeping Assist; Automatic High Beam; Traffic Sign Recognition; and Driver Drowsiness and Attention Warning.

A Ferrari of any sort is going to carry a hefty price tag, and for something special like the F80, things go up a notch. Reports from Europe suggest a price tag of around $AU6 million. That might seem like a lot (and it is!) but, apparently, all 799 examples already have buyers.

VIDEO: INTRODUCING THE FERRARI F80

LIMITED-EDITION TOYOTA GR86 TO HIT DEALERS BY END OF 2024

TOYOTA’S UPGRADED GR86 twodoor sports car range will arrive in Australian showrooms in December, headlined by the new GR86 Limited Edition.

Limited to a run of 86 units, the GR86 Limited Edition is based on the top-of-therange GTS with Dynamic Performance Pack and stands out with a unique Forest Shadow exterior colour.

The Forest Shadow colour is paired with bronze 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels and inside there’s combination leather and black Ultrasuede upholstery. There’s tan seat accents and tan-coloured stitching on the seats, shift lever, handbrake, steering wheel and door trims.

The Limited Edition also gets the GTS Dynamic Performance Pack, which offers ZF Sachs sports dampers. Stopping power is bolstered by red-painted Brembo brakes.

Like the GT and GTS, the GR86 Limited Edition is available with the choice of either a six-speed manual or sixspeed torque-converter automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Toyota says all new

GR86 variants get multiple engineering upgrades, with the changes spurred by feedback from professional racing drivers.

The 2.4-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder petrol engine that powers all GR86 variants has been revised to offer greater throttle response. Shock reduction has also been achieved by eliminating the engine’s ignition delay control. Automatic variants are now able to manually downshift at a higher rpm.

The 2.4-litre engine develops 174kW and 250Nm, with power running through the

rear wheels with the assistance of a standard limited-slip differential. Toyota says the shock absorbers and electric power steering have also been returned to improve handling response.

• Pricing for the updated GR86 variants see the GT come in at $43,240, the GTS at $45,390, and the Limited Edition from $49,600. Options include a Dynamic Performance Pack (GTS only) for $2200, and Premium paint for $575.

RAM TRUCKS HEMI V8 ERA DRAWING TO A CLOSE

THE 5.7-LITRE HEMI V8 is now officially in run-out across the RAM Trucks Australia range.

With HEMI V8 engine production ending in the U.S. for RAM 1500 DT trucks, it marks the end of a production run that can trace its roots back to 1951.

A HEMI V8 engine is so called thanks to the shape of the cylinder head’s combustion chamber – a scooped out half circle or hemisphere – which allowed the spark plugs to be positioned closer to shorten the burn distance of the air/fuel mixture. This unique hemisphere shape meant domed pistons were used to produce sufficient compression, which allowed for an increase in engine power.

The third generation HEMI V8 first saw action in pick-up trucks in 2003.

“While we have exciting news ahead for what will power future RAM Trucks, once these history-making HEMI V8s are gone, they’re gone,” said Jeff Barber, General Manager, RAM Trucks Australia.

The RAM 1500 HEMI V8 Runout is on now while stocks last. Check the Ram Trucks website for more.

RAM 1500 HEMI V8 Runout

ZEEKR LAUNCHES THE MIX PEOPLE MOVER

THE NEWS FROM Zeekr keeps on coming. The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer- that recently launched into the Australian market with the very smart-looking Zeekr X SUV - has now launched the MIX into the China market. It's a five-seat peoplemover that, not surprisingly, is brimming with futuristic touches and top-notch technology, including a sensor suite of lidar, high-definition cameras and radars.

The company says it is the first familyoriented product built on its SEA-M architecture and it certainly does seem

to be built around the idea of family and interaction between those in the cabin. The front-row seats can swivel 270 degrees, and there’s a movable central console, meaning the Zeekr MIX can transform into a lounge-like area.

The double sliding doors provide a 1.48-metre-wide entrance, and a vehicle floor height of 390mm ensures easy access. The vehicle’s damper structure design and suspension space optimisation allow the front wheels to turn more than 50 degrees, allowing for a 5-metre turning circle.

The Zeekr MIX features a hidden

Zeekr MIX

THE COMPANY SAYS IT IS THE FIRST FAMILY-ORIENTED PRODUCT BUILT ON ITS SEA-M ARCHITECTURE AND IT CERTAINLY DOES SEEM TO BE BUILT AROUND THE IDEA OF FAMILY AND INTERACTION BETWEEN THOSE IN THE CABIN.

dual B-pillar design, with two ultrahigh-strength steel pillars embedded within each door. The company says this structure, crafted from 2000 megapascal hot-formed steel and fortified by a unique thickening process, offers over 30 per cent more strength than conventional hotformed steel. The one-piece

die-casted rear body further enhances the vehicle's resilience, Zeekr says.

The Zeekr MIX comes with a 800V system. Two battery options are available: a 76kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack offering a range of 550km (CLTC) of range, and a 102kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack offering a range of over 700km (CLTC). Reportedly, power is delivered from a 310kW/440Nm electric motor.

Zeekr says the LFP batteries developed by Zeekr engineers boast 5.5C ultra-fast charging, allowing vehicles to charge from 10 to 80 per cent SoC in 10.5 minutes.

The flurry of activity from Zeekr as it launches into the Australian market will, hopefully, see the MIX land here too in the near future.

LEAPMOTOR DEBUTS B10 MODEL & REVEALS LOCAL DEALER NETWORK

BACK IN SEPTEMBER,

Leapmotor, the Chinese manufacturer of electric vehicles which is now . . . , revealed it would enter the local market in November with its mid-size SUV, the C10.

More models from the company will likely be headed our way and, in October at the Paris Motor Show, the company unveiled one that will reportedly be doing just that – the B10 compact SUV.

Built on Leapmotor’s LEAP 3.5 architecture - an integrated platform that provides features like ADAS, a customisable digital cockpit, and intelligent driving capabilities – the company says the B10 represents the first of many upcoming models that will be launched as part of the company’s B-series, designed specifically for global markets.

Leapmotor dealership and test drive the all-new C10 from mid-November.

Initial dealership locations are:

• Adelaide City Leapmotor

Leapmotor says the new C-SUV is targeted at younger consumers seeking a vehicle that offers advanced technology and connectivity as well as environmental credentials at a competitive price.

More details on the B10 are to come, but it is mooted that the model will come in at a very reasonable price.

The company has also revealed details of its dedicated dealer network that will serve customers across major cities in Australia including Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Canberra.

Customers will be able to visit any

• McCarroll's Artarmon Leapmotor

• Barbagallo Leapmotor

• Brighton Leapmotor

• Brisbane Leapmotor

• Gold Coast Leapmotor

• Gulson Canberra Leapmotor

• Nunawading Leapmotor

• Parramatta Leapmotor

The company says customers can expect to see more Leapmotor dealers across Australia in the near future, with Leapmotor Australia planning on expanding their network in 2025 to support more models expected to arrive next year.

HYUNDAI INTRODUCES OFF-ROAD XRT OPTION PACKS FOR SANTA FE HYBRID

THE HYUNDAI

SANTA Fe Hybrid is getting a couple of option packs – packs that can be added to the SUV to enhance its off-road capabilities.

Available for the recently released model Santa Fe are two of these XRT Option Packs – the XRT Peak and XRT Adventure. They are a collaborative effort between Hyundai Motor Company Australia (HMCA) and Hyundai America Technical Centre and offer enhancements including exclusive wheel and all-terrain tyre combination, specially tuned Mando dampers in conjunction with XRT suspension knuckles and stabiliser bars.

in California to test existing North American Santa Fe XRT components in varied on- and off-road conditions. Those conditions included steep unsealed climbs and descents with rocks and sand, heavy duty towing, damper tuning and Motor Drive Power Steering (MDPS) assessment.

The XRT suspension package, combined with XRT exclusive 17-inch wheel and allterrain tyre combination gives the Santa Fe a 30mm lift resulting in greater approach and departure angles, and improved overall ground clearance.

Scorpion All Terrain+ tyres are here too, developed in conjunction with Pirelli and providing, Hyundai says, the optimum balance of excellent off-road capability and on-road grip and quietness.

Hyundai says an Australian team travelled to the Technical Centre (HATCI)

The XRT Option Packs are available now for new and existing Santa Fe Hybrid customers and are covered by Hyundai’s 5 Year, Unlimited Kilometre Warranty when fitted by a Hyundai Dealership at newvehicle purchase.

MAZDA BT-50 GETS STYLE & TECH UPDATES FOR 2025

THE MAZDA BT-50 has received a raft of design changes, safety upgrades, added functionality and new accessories for 2025.

Exterior updates see LED headlamps framed by a new radiator grille and bumper. The bumper also features an ‘air curtain’. At the rear, the tailgate integrates a ridged design along the bottom edge of the panel and there are new LED tail-lamps and a larger Mazda logo too. New alloy wheels complete the look.

Inside, there’s a new infotainment system and the Human Machine Interface (HMI) works from a 9-inch central touchscreen that integrates touch switches below the display. A new MultiInformation Display (MID) of up to 7 inches offers instrument info, has added content and is user customisable.

As well as access to the on/off ADAS settings, the centre display now also shows information previously contained in the MID, such as real-time vehicle steering and tilt angles, TPMS status, drive mode/diff lock status and Rough Terrain Mode.

Wireless Android Auto integration joins the existing wireless Apple CarPlay functionality and there are now USB-C sockets. The door trims, console lid and mid-dashboard trim get material updates including black leather trim (dependent on grade). A leather seat trim finished in black and terracotta Maztex with synthetic suede is an option on flagship models.

The Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) has been upgraded, starting with new front stereo cameras that double the vehicle’s field of view.

Traffic Jam Assist is a new feature, as is Rear Cross Traffic Brake and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control. The AEB system also now features motorcycle detection and pedestrian detection at intersections.

Full pricing and specification details will be revealed early next year, ahead of the new model’s launch in the first quarter of 2025.

VIDEO: BOLD NEW MAZDA BT-50 - ARRIVING 2025

MTAQ MEMBER SIGNAGE

New vehicle sales

NEW VEHICLE SALES REACH ONE MILLION IN 2024 EVEN AS MARKET EASES

WITH 98,375 SALES recorded in October, new vehicle sales for 2024 in Australia have stretched beyond the one million sales mark.

The October result, revealed by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) and VFACTS, is 7.9 per cent down on the same month last year and continues the easing of the market during the second half of 2024. However, it is the secondbest October result on record and brings the year-to-date sales total to 1,025,621.

Sales in Queensland were down 1.7 per cent on October 2023 to 21,557. Sales in the Australian Capital Territory were down 16.4 per cent to 1,298; NSW was down 12.1 per cent to 29,014; Northern Territory was up 15.3 per cent to 853; South Australia decreased by 7.1 per cent to 6,205; Tasmania had a decrease of 20.1 per cent to 1,594; Victoria decreased 14.4 per cent to 26,317 and Western Australia increased by 13.5 to 11,537.

Toyota was the market leader with sales of 18,471 in October, followed by Ford (8,581), Mazda (7,656), Hyundai (7,086) and Kia (6,602). The Toyota RAV4 was Australia’s top selling vehicle with sales of 4,841 followed by Ford Ranger (4,757), Toyota HiLux (4,523), Ford Everest (2,668) and Isuzu Ute D-Max (2,295).

The Passenger Vehicle Market is down by

2,089 vehicle sales (-11.9 per cent) over the same month last year; the Sports Utility Market is down by 3,107 vehicle sales (-5.2 per cent); the Light Commercial Market is down by 3,510 vehicle sales (-13.7 per cent) and the Heavy Commercial Vehicle Market is up by 272 vehicle sales (6.4 per cent) versus October 2023.

“While not at the record levels of 2023, the October result is solid,” said Tony Weber, CEO of the FCAI. "However, we remain concerned about the continuing performance of the private buyers segment which was down 14.2 per cent this month following a reduction of 17.2 per cent in September. This does indicate that economic pressures are a concern for families across the country.”.

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Workplace relations

REN LEE SENIOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS ADVISOR

EMPLOYERS RESPONSIBILITIES TO CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS/END OF YEAR WORKPLACE FESTIVITIES SAFELY

AS THE FESTIVE season fast approaches, workplaces are gearing up for Christmas and end-of-year celebrations. These events foster camaraderie and team spirit but also raise important considerations regarding employee conduct. Understanding the expectations surrounding behaviour during such occasions is crucial for both employer and employee alike.

Initially, employers must communicate clear expectations regarding conduct at these celebrations. It is important to remind employees that the workplace code of conduct remains applicable outside the office space. This includes workplace policies on harassment, discrimination, and alcohol consumption. A well-structured communication plan can help set the tone for acceptable behaviors, ensuring that all employees are aware of the requirements and boundaries.

Secondly, alcohol often plays a significant role in workplace celebrations, which can increase the risk of inappropriate or unsafe behaviors. Employers are urged to consider implementing strategies to mitigate these risks. Having available non-alcoholic food and drink options, offering transportation services, and moderating alcohol consumption, such as responsible service of alcohol are vital in creating a safe and inclusive environment.

Additionally, setting a clear start and finish time for the event can help employees maintain professionalism. Employees must adhere to company policies, do not engage in excessive alcohol consumption, and respect colleagues’ boundaries to encourage a safe and inclusive environment for all. It is reminded that any misconduct by employees at these parties may involve disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Finally, it is essential that employers lead by example. Demonstrating appropriate behavior sets a standard for employees to follow. Encouraging positive interactions and showing appreciation for everyone’s hard work can increase goodwill and strengthen bonds at the workplace.

. . . WHILE THE END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS CAN BE ENJOYABLE, EMPLOYERS MUST STILL ACTIVELY MANAGE THE ENVIRONMENT TO UPHOLD PROFESSIONALISM AND INCLUSIVITY.

In summary, while the end of year celebrations can be enjoyable, employers must still actively manage the environment to uphold professionalism and inclusivity. By clearly communicating expectations and implementing reasonable and responsible practices, employers and employees can then ensure successful and memorable celebrations to finish off the year of hard work.

The information in this article is general and does not constitute legal advice. For assistance or further information please contact the MTA Queensland Workplace Relations Advisors.

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MTA Institute News

WHILE THIS YEAR

rapidly slips away, we have had the privilege this month of engaging with some of the promising leaders of tomorrow during the interviews for the 2024 MTA Institute’s Apprentice of the Year Award. The announcement of the winner of this prestigious award is set to take place on the 23rd of November at the MTA Queensland 2024 Industry Award Gala, an event that celebrates excellence within the automotive sector.

FOR THOSE UNFAMILIAR WITH THE PROCESS, THE MTA INSTITUTE CONDUCTS MONTHLY AWARDS FOR APPRENTICES, WHICH CULMINATE IN THE SELECTION OF 12 FINALISTS FOR THE ANNUAL ACCOLADE.

The quality of this year's nominees is nothing short of remarkable. For those unfamiliar with the process, the MTA Institute conducts monthly awards for apprentices, which culminate in the selection of 12 finalists for the annual accolade.

Candidates for the monthly awards are typically put forward by their employers or their MTA trainers for a variety of commendable reasons. These reasons may include exceptional performance that exceeds expectations, unwavering commitment, the ability to navigate and overcome personal challenges, effective teamwork, and a host of other admirable qualities that highlight their dedication and resilience.

Upon receiving the nominations, a diverse panel of judges meticulously evaluates and scores each application,

leading to the announcement of a monthly winner. To ultimately identify the Apprentice of the Year, the same panel conducts interviews with all monthly winners, ensuring a consistent and equitable process for all candidates.

Each interview follows a standardised format, where participants respond to a series of open-ended questions while being assessed by three judges. The scoring reflects the candidates' confidence, enthusiasm, and depth of thought, with an emphasis on their passion for the automotive industry and their long-term career aspirations.

We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to meet the finalists in person at the gala and extend our best wishes to all participants, as they are already regarded as winners in our eyes.

MARCELLO RIOTTO DIRECTOR, MTA INSTITUTE

2024 APPRENTICE YEAR AWARD

MTA QUEENSLAND WILL be hosting its Industry Awards Gala Dinner at the W Hotel in Brisbane on the evening of Saturday, 23 November. The awards bring together all sectors of the automotive industry to celebrate the achievements of MTA Queensland members, MTA Institute apprentices, and the industry as a whole.

The evening will be hosted by Ben Davis from Channel Seven, who will be joined by special guest Will Brown, the Supercars championship series driver for the Triple Eight Race Engineering team.

Will has connections with MTA Queensland. The Cars Galore used-car dealership in Toowoomba is owned by his parents Shane and Leanne, and Motor

Trader highlighted the potential of a young and prodigiously talented Will way back in August of 2015 when it ran an article on the then 17-year-old who had just secured victory in the very first race of Australia’s inaugural open-wheel Formula 4 Championship.

In that article, Motor Trader told readers to remember Will’s name because ‘. . . when driving on a racetrack, he is fast as lightning and could well be Australia’s next motor racing superstar.’ In the nine years since then, that is exactly what Will has become, and the conversation between Will and Ben at the Awards Gala is sure to be a highlight of the night.

Another highlight will be the announcement of the winners of the

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MTA Queensland awards. In last month’s edition of Motor Trader, we published the details of the amazing individuals and businesses that are finalists in the Community award, the Innovation award, the Women In Industry award, the Small Business award, and the Large Business award categories.

In this month’s edition we focus on the incredibly talented group of finalists in the running for the MTA Queensland Apprentice of the Year award.

Over the past year, each of these finalists appeared in Motor Trader as winners of the Apprentice of the Month award. In this edition, we re-run their stories.

These apprentices – some of them now qualified - are the future of the industry.

They are excelling in their chosen fields and proved through their enthusiasm, talent, and dedication to training that the industry has some excellent future leaders working in shops across the state.

While there can be only one winner of the Apprentice of the Year award, it is a wonderful achievement to be part of this group of 12 finalists. The MTA Institute (RTO No. 31529) trains around 2,600 apprentices across Queensland, and to be judged as one of the best amongst so many is remarkable.

Across the next few pages you can read more on each of our finalists. We offer out congratulations to them all on their achievements so far, and wish them all good luck at the awards night!

Terri Butler, Chair of the MTA Institute; Melissa Smith, 2023 Apprentice of the Year; and Marcello Riotto, Director of the MTA Institute

KAYDO WIRIHANA

APPRENTICESHIP: AUTO REFINISHING EMPLOYER: FIX AUTO GLADSTONE

KAYDO WIRIHANA was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for September 2023.

The New Zealand-born 20-year-old is about to finish the third year of his auto refinishing (spray painting) apprenticeship and has impressed both his employer and MTA Institute trainer with his ability, work ethic, and passion for the work. He is, his employer said, reliable, enthusiastic, skilled, takes pride in his job, and is a natural talent.

Just a few years ago, however, being an automotive painter was not something that Kaydo was thinking about as a career. While he was still a student at school, Kaydo's mum suggested he look for work and reached out to Lowry’s Auto Body Repairs – now known as Fix Auto – to set up a bit of work experience.

“I thought it looked pretty cool and tried it out,” said Kaydo when speaking with Motor Trader last year. “They’re all really friendly here, and I did one week of work experience, and when the week ended they asked me to come back the next week. I kept on going and before you know it, I was working here.”

Kaydo hasn’t looked back, proving to be a gifted painter and helping the Fix Auto team repair a diverse range of vehicles that come through the workshop.

“We do a lot of insurance work, and we work on any make or model apart from motorbikes and trucks,” said Kaydo.

The work, and the team with whom he does that work, makes the job of painting a

“. . . IT IS PRETTY COOL TO SEE A BUSHBASHED HILUX GO OUT LOOKING LIKE NEW! WE GET A FEW OF THOSE.”

really enjoyable experience he added. And seeing the finished product – a damaged vehicle returned to pristine condition – is really satisfying.

“The blokes I work with are heaps of fun, and we get a lot of work done,” he said.

“And It is pretty cool to see a bush-bashed HiLux go out looking like new! We get a few of those.”

From the beginning of his apprenticeship, Kaydon has been doing his training with the MTA Institute. He has, said his trainer, Keiran Charters, been exceling.

“He is a good listener, and when I am teaching him something he listens intently, asks questions, and shows a passion for the trade,” said Keiran. “He always completes his work for when I get there and, all-in-all, he’s a great bloke and it’s a pleasure to go and visit and work with him.”

While just 20, and with a while still to go until he has completed his qualification, Kaydo’s ambition is simple and direct – to be good at his job, be successful and, perhaps, to one day run his own shop.

We are sure he’ll make it.

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BRADLEY BULL

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: BNT AUTO, BOWEN. FORMERLY AT BOWEN MAZDA

BRADLEY BULL was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for October 2023.

The 32-year-old completed his apprenticeship in May, and since speaking with Motor Trader back in October last year, he has moved from his job with Bowen Mazda to take a new role with BNT Auto, also in Bowen, north Queensland.

Bradley proved to be an outstanding apprentice, overcoming a troubled past to become a valued member of the workshop team and someone who has, his employer said when he won the Apprentice of the Month award, ‘the required skillset to liaise with customers well, actively provide input on best practice ideas for the workshop, and enjoys mentoring and helping the junior apprentices in our team.’

It says much about Bradley that he has overcome a history that has seen him spend time incarcerated only to come out the other side, draw a line under that past, and grasp the opportunity offered to him. The road to his apprenticeship was a rocky one.

“When I first left school, I went to the mines but was hurt in a motorbike accident and couldn’t pay my bills,” said Bradley. “I turned to selling drugs, was caught, and got five years in prison. When I got out, I worked at Hamilton Island for a while as a plasterer but then the pandemic happened and things shut down.”

Out of work and back in Bowen, Bradley saw a Facebook post advertising for an

apprentice at Bowen Mazda. Encouraged to apply for the job by his partner, that post signalled the beginning of a journey to a career that had been a long-held dream.

“When I was a little kid, I always wanted to be a mechanic – it was a dream,” said Bradley. “I grew up around Speedway – my nanna and pop were involved with the Collinsville Speedway track back in the day – and my dad is a motor trimmer, and I spent a lot of time around cars, pulling them apart to see how they worked.”

Taking the chance to apply for the apprentice spot, Bradley would successfully complete a two-week trial, and was fortunate to find himself in the hands of a business ready to take a chance on him.

“I did my two weeks, gave it my best, and they came to me and said, ‘We’ve been told that you’ve got a bit of history.’ I told them I had been incarcerated but that I wanted to do the right thing, and they said, ‘We are all about second chances.’ I am blessed with the opportunity I have been given.”

He enjoys every moment of the job heb has and the satisfaction that comes from doing it well and seeing customers drive home happy.

“I love it all,” he said. “People need their cars to go to work to pay their bills. It’s the biggest investment they’ll make other than their house, so I take my time and take pride in what I do.

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BUSY AT WORK, AND GATES FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE INDUSTRY AWARDS GALA

As the industry moves towards electrification, Bradley said he was keen to gain the skills to work on electric vehicles (EVs) and that more training is likely to be on the cards as his career progresses.

Reflecting on his training with the MTA Insitute, Bradley said it had been a great experience, with the one-on-one, in-theworkshop training delivery helping him tremendously.

“Because I do lack a bit in reading and writing, if something is worded a certain way, sometimes it can be confusing,” he said when Motor Trader spoke to him back in 2023. “That’s when my trainer Gareth

“WHEN I WAS A LITTLE KID I ALWAYS WANTED TO BE A MECHANICIT WAS A DREAM . . . I SPENT A LOT OF TIME AROUND CARS, PULLING THEM APART TO HOW THEY WORKED. ”

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THE BNT AUTO FACEBOOK PAGE

really helps, because he might say it another way and then I get it.

“And when it is just me and him, it also means there are no interruptions and you don’t have other people judging you. That training does work well for me.”

DAMON DODD

APPRENTICESHIP: AUTO REFINISHING

EMPLOYER: MOTORONE AUTOBODY. FORMERLY AT GEMINI ROCKHAMPTON

DAMON DODD was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for November 2023.

The 21-year-old is in the fourth year of his auto refinishing (spray painting) apprenticeship and works for MotorOne Autobody in Gracemere, near Rockhampton. He joined MotorOne earlier this year, but when Motor Trader spoke to Damon in November of 2023 when he won the Apprentice of the Month award, he was working for, and had done all of his apprenticeship to that point, at Gemini Rockhampton, part of the AMA Group.

Gemini Rockhampton said at the time that Damon had ‘. . . exceeded all

expectations’ and become a vital member of the team and a lead painter within the workshop.

Go back four years, however, and Damon was working at McDonald’s and becoming a spray painter was not on his radar. However, a friend came to see him and advised him to take a look at the automotive industry and the panel beating and spray painting trades. That conversation that would lead Damon to go and see the team at Gemini Rockhampton.

“My mate thought I would love it, and he was right,” said Damon. “When I came to see the Gemini people, they asked whether I wanted to try being a panel

MTA QUEENSLAND THANKS PLATINUM SPONSORS CAPRICORN, SPIRIT SUPER, BUSY

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beater or spray painter and I thought that I would give spray painting a go. It sounded interesting.”

For the next three weeks, Damon worked with a tradesperson and his performance was monitored. Impressing the Gemini management, and discovering that he really enjoyed the work and picked things up quickly, he was signed up for a spray painting apprenticeship.

Damon works on just about any job, and his enthusiasm for the work is clear, as his passion to see the end result be the best it can be for the vehicle owner.

“Usually, as an apprentice you stick with things like one bumper bar and that will be a solid colour so it’s nice and easy, but once you get into your third and fourth year you start to use and experience more of the difficult colours,” he said when speaking to Motor Trader last year.

“We always make sure the customer gets the correct colour,” he added. “We never just check the colour off profile chips and say ‘that’ll be OK’ – we always do a spray out to

CLCIK TO VISIT THE MOTORONE AUTOBODY WEBSITE

“YOU PUT SO MUCH HARD WORK INTO EVERY STEP - FROM SANDING TO WIPING DOWN, THEN SPRAYING, THEN CLEAR COATING AND LETTING IT SET - AND THERE IS A GREAT SENSE OF SATSFACTION SEEING THE FINISHED JOB.”

make sure the colour is 100 per cent.

And if I am happy and my tradesman is happy, then we go ahead and spray.

“You put so much hard work into every step – from sanding, to wiping down, then spraying, then clear coating and letting it set – and there is a great sense of satisfaction seeing the finished job.

“Sometimes I’ll see a car I recognise coming down the road and I think, ‘Oh yeah, I painted that, and it looks good!’ Those are good days.”

CONNOR MCMAHON

APPRENTICESHIP: HEAVY COMMERCIAL

EMPLOYER: C2C MINE MAINTENANCE

CONNOR MCMAHON was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for December 2023.

Currently working for C2C Mine Maintenance in Mackay, 18-year-old Connor is nearing the end of the third year of his

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heavy commercial vehicle apprenticeship and has drawn praise from his employer and MTA Institute trainer for his strong work ethic, developing skills and enthusiasm.

“He consistently goes above and beyond, showcasing the qualities that embody

BUSY AT WORK, AND GATES FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE INDUSTRY AWARDS GALA

an outstanding apprentice,” said C2C Director Robert Bryan in nominating Connor for the Apprentice of the Month award. “He shows a level of mechanical knowledge and maturity usually found at tradesman level.”

At C2C Mine Maintenance - which is part of a group that includes C2C Site Services and C2C Hire and Haulage –Connor works as part of a team that repairs and maintains a wide range of equipment, machinery and vehicles used on mine sites, including cars, trucks, diggers, and generators. As a third-year apprentice, he is able to work on just about any job that comes into the shop, and he enjoys the work immensely.

Connor caught the automotive mechanical bug while at school, when work experience at another automotive business in Mackay exposed him to the workshop environment.

“I had thought about being a boilermaker or something like that, but when I did the work experience, I realised that was what I wanted to do,” he said when speaking with Motor Trader a few months ago. “I didn’t necessarily think I would work in a mining-related industry, but there’s a lot of that around here, so that sort of just happened. But it has been great.

“Initially, my work experience was for two weeks. Then I did more over the holidays, then one day a week for a while, and then took on the apprenticeship – I think that was after I had finished Grade 10.”

Connor moved to work at C2C and, at the same time, changed his apprenticeship training provider to the MTA Institute and trainer Gareth Hartley.

“I moved to C2C really because there were more opportunities to work on a

“I DIDN'T NECESSARILY THINK I WOULD WORK IN A MINING-RELATED INDUSTRY, BUT THERE'S A LOT OFTHAT AROUND HERE SO THAT SORT OF JUST HAPPENED. BUT IT HAS BEEN GREAT.”

wider range of equipment. I thought it would be beneficial,” said Connor. “And the training with Gareth has been really great. It’s practical, hands on, and because it is just me and him in the workshop, it is like doing tutoring at school – it’s much better one-on-one than it is with a whole group of people. It’s way easier and I’d definitely recommend it.”

Like every other sector of the automotive industry, electrification - battery electric, hybrid, perhaps hydrogen fuel cell - is something that those working within mining, and mining-related sectors, should consider as being part of their future.

While it may take time for such technology to make big inroads into the mining sector generally, C2C Mine Maintenance has seen some electrified vehicles come through the shop and Connor is mindful that some training may be required down the track.

“While we do mine work, we do work on ordinary cars too and we have seen some hybrids come in,” he said.

“I do think about doing the training on them at some point – in the coming years they will become more common. So, yes, I will consider the training.”

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CHELSEA WADDINGTON

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: DOYLE’S GARAGE, GYMPIE

CHELSEA WADDINGTON was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for January 2024.

The 21-year-old had just completed her light vehicle apprenticeship when Motor Trader spoke with her back in January and she is now a qualified tech at Doyle’s Garage in Gympie – an independent workshop offering maintenance and repair services on a wide range of makes and models of cars, trucks, 4WDs, and trailers.

According to her employer, during her apprenticeship Chelsea had shown ‘. . . an outstanding work ethic and high attention to detail’ and is someone who ‘. . . has a very bright and promising future ahead of her in the industry.’

Chelsea knew early on that she wanted to pursue a career in automotive, finding that passion thanks to the support and encouragement of family and friends.

“Our neighbour at the time owned a mechanic shop in town and I did some work experience there on school holidays and so on,” said Chelsea. “He would throw me into the deep end a bit, showed me what it was like and didn’t just let me sit back and watch. That was really good and really got me interested in pursuing it as a career.

“When I was 16, I started my schoolbased apprenticeship and then went full time quite quickly,” she added. “I was doing one day a week, then went to two days a week, and I left school after Grade 10 to go full time.”

Beginning her apprenticeship with another shop in Gympie, Chelsea would move to Doyle’s Garage in 2022 to complete her training and to get more experience on the wide range of jobs the business has running through the workshop.

“We work on just about every make and model and do just about everythingservicing, suspension upgrades, clutches, cylinder heads - anything you can think of I have done or at least learned how to do.

“You pick things up pretty quick when all sorts of work comes through the shop.”

Chelsea said she enjoys every aspect of the job and feels plenty of pride in seeing a job done well and customers happy.

“I love what I do, and I get a lot of satisfaction seeing something that has come in broken, turned around and sent out in good shape. It is very rewarding.”

Having done all her training with the MTA Institute, Chelsea said that the Institute’s method of delivering that training –learning with a trainer one-on-one in the student’s workplace – was one that worked very well for her. She added that even though she is qualified, the electrification of the industry meant there will be more training for her in the near future.

“I think doing the courses will be rewarding because electric vehicles will be a part of the industry and I want to understand them fully,” she said. “They are certainly a cool bit of machinery, and I will do the training to be able to work on them. I don’t

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really have a choice! It’s the way things are going, and you’ve got to keep up with things. So I am keen to do it and I have spoken with my trainer Terry, who has already pointed me in the direction for training.”

While it is still unusual to see women on the tools in a workshop, Chelsea said she received total support in her quest to join the industry.

“Everywhere I have been has been great,” she said. “Even customers make comments about how awesome it is to see a female mechanic. That is a good feeling, especially coming from the older generation who might once have frowned upon it. The industry has been great to get into. I would

certainly recommend to others. Do work experience first, so you get a feel of what it is like, and then 100 per cent go for that career!”

Of her own career, Chelsea said running her own business might be one path she may take, but learning more and getting more experience was the way forward for now.

“The future means training for EVs, perhaps becoming a workshop manager and maybe starting my own business one day,” she said.

“But for now, I am happy building up my skills and maybe helping to train and mentor others.”

KYE ROBINSON

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: BMAS BILOELA

KYE ROBINSON was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for February 2024.

The 21-year-old is near to finishing the third year of his light vehicle apprenticeship and works at BMAS Biloela, a business that delivers a wide range of services – including mobile repair and maintenance, parts and machinery supplies – to the many agricultural businesses in the central Queensland farming region, as well as regular light vehicle servicing and maintenance.

There’s little that BMAS Biloela doesn’t do, and that is reflected in the skilled staff that work there – two previous apprentice of the month winners have come from the BMAS workshop.

Kye joins that duo in making his mark, demonstrating, his employers said, ‘a level

of commitment, technical expertise and passion that sets him apart . . .’

It is perhaps not surprising Kye is excelling in his apprenticeship. His grandfather built engines for speedboat racing and Kye, like his father before him, was always interested in that work and serviced and maintained his own cars. And while he entertained the idea of becoming a boilermaker or a fitter and turner, a mechanical apprenticeship was always Kye’s most likely career destination.

After moving to Biloela three years ago, Kye had concrete plans to pursue an apprenticeship after finishing Grade 12 at school. Speaking with Motor Trader at the time of his Apprentice of the Month win, Kye said things had moved pretty quickly.

“About midway through Grade 12, I

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did a week of work experience at BMAS and then about two weeks prior to the following school holidays, BMAS asked if I wanted to come back for another week,” said Kye. “My ears sort of perked up at that and after I did that week, they offered me the light vehicle apprenticeship. I finished Grade 12 and about three days after finishing school I went straight to work.”

Working at BMAS Biloela sees Kye getting to work on a wide range of vehicles and machinery and given plenty of responsibility both at the workshop and out on the road delivering mobile servicing and maintenance. Those on-site visits can be rather epic - a 500km round trip to Rolleston is the farthest trip on Kye’s books!

“We are a tractor dealership - Massey Ferguson, Duetz-Fahr, AGCO and others – as well as a general maintenance centre, so we do everything from tractor transmissions to clutches – anything agricultural – as well as light vehicle work, a bit of plant, and trucks,” he said. “. . . I have my own work ute and do a lot of field maintenance and repairs for the agricultural side of things.”

Kye has been training with the MTA Institute, but other training opportunities have been plentiful as BMAS works to

upskill its staff to offer its customers the best quality service.

“There are lots of learning opportunities at BMAS,” said Kye. “For example, next week I am going down to the Gold Coast for a week of Deutz-Fahr training, then I am back home for a week before going to do some Trimble training – learning the precision ag side, autosteer, GPS and so on for tractors. I can’t speak highly enough of my employers as they are paying for me to do that training. It’s fantastic.”

With electrification now a part of the agricultural sector, training to be able to work on battery electric and hybrid vehicles will be part of Kye’s training too.

“That is something we all have to embrace,” he said. “There is no denying that electrification is the future.”

As for Kye’s future once he completes his apprenticeship, his enthusiasm to keep learning, and do so with BMAS, seems clear.

“I’m still young, want to pile in as much knowledge as I can and be as good at my job as I can be,” he said. “And then whatever happens, happens.”

PETER SLAPE

APPRENTICESHIP: AUTO ELECTRICAL EMPLOYER: CAIRNS AUTO SPARK & MECHANICAL

PETER SLAPE was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for March 2024.

The 39-year-old had recently completed his Cert III in Automotive Electrical Technology at Cairns Auto Spark & Mechanical, and he had done did so quickly, with his hard work and aptitude seeing him finish in a little over three years.

This may be partly due to the fact that Peter has been a ‘car nut’ since he was at

2024 APPRENTICE OF THE

school and had already clocked up more than 15 years in the industry by the time he started his apprenticeship.

“For 13 years I worked for a vehicle wholesaler, so I used to do a lot of buying of cars and attending auctions and so on,” Peter told Motor Trader when he spoke with the magazine earlier this year. “I would have easily fixed 200 to 300 power windows before I worked here and did lots of other basic stuff like stereos and so on.

“When my old boss wrapped things up, my current employer, who also owns a car dealership, said there was a job with him if I wanted. So, I went over to his caryard doing similar work reconditioning used cars and getting them roadworthy and so on. One day he asked how I’d feel about doing an apprenticeship. I had always thought it would be good if I could do a trade before I turned 40, and I started in October of 2020.”

Working at Cairns Auto Spark and Mechanical means Peter gets to work on all manner of jobs, though he does have his favourites.

“If it fits in out driveway, we will work on it,” he said. “We’ve worked on skid-steer bobcats, trucks, buses, motorhomes and we do a lot of air conditioning. We also do a lot of dual-battery systems as well as custom canopies, fridges, stoves, and solar panels, and we work with customers on full fit-out quotes. It has been a really great place to learn.

“We’ve got three workshops and an outside hoist area,” he added. “One workshop is all mechanical jobs; another is a smaller air-conditioned workshop where we do longer jobs; and then there’s the main workshop. We are primarily auto electrical so there’s me and another qualified auto electrician

plus two apprentices, and we have a mechanic and an apprentice mechanic as well.

“I do enjoy the fit-out work,” he said. “For a couple of days, you don’t worry about anything else - you’ve just got a canopy, putting in switches and lights and running cables - and when you’re finished and it’s nice and neat, you can stand back and be proud of your work. That’s a great feeling.”

Peter did his entire apprenticeship with the MTA Institute, and it has, he said, been a great experience, especially working with his last trainer, Antony Joslin.

“There were things we might get stuck on, and we would say, ‘Antony will be here tomorrow, let’s pick his brain’, and he wouldn’t just throw the answer at you but run through it and get hands on,” said Peter. “All the trainers really knew their stuff. They had excellent knowledge and we always looked forward to seeing them because they made things easy to understand.”

Peter had recently become a father for the first time when he spoke with Motor Trader in March and had already been promoted to electrical supervisor. It had been a busy few months, both personally and professionally! His efforts made him stand out during his apprenticeship as does his enthusiasm for the job, and that should be a great positive for the apprentice he now mentors at the shop. As his trainer Antony said as he guided Peter through his apprenticeship, “. . . the results he has been achieving with training and work have been outstanding and worthy of recognition . . . he is an inspiration to younger trainees.”

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EMMA WARD

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: MERCEDES-BENZ SUNSHINE COAST

EMMA WARD was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for April 2024.

The 20-year-old recently completed her light vehicle apprenticeship and works at Mercedes-Benz Sunshine Coast.

Emma’s interest in pursuing a career in the automotive industry began while she was at school. When she was just 15, and with no particular interest in automotive at the time, Emma completed a week of work experience at the Mercedes-Benz Sunshine Coast dealership. It was a lifechanging few days.

“It was really something I stumbled upon,” Emma told Motor Trader earlier this year. “I never really thought about being in the trade, but I also didn’t know what I wanted to do after school. The opportunity came up to apply for the work experience and I really enjoyed it. I finished Year 10 then left school and went straight into the apprenticeship.”

Working at a Mercedes-Benz dealership does mean that Emma is working on some of the most sophisticated and technologically advanced vehicles currently available. As an apprentice, she was also partnered up with one of workshop’s master technicians, meaning she got some time on the really detailed, complex jobs that are now to become part of her regular work.

“I do a lot of repairs and services and am starting to lean into the more diagnostic scene at the moment,” she said when talking

“THE OPPORTUNITY CAME UP TO APPLY FOR THE WORK EXPERIENCE, AND I REALLY ENJOYED IT.”

to Motor Trader in April. “And working with one of our master techs means when he does big jobs - like quotes for engines, diagnosis and compression testing, and all the stuff to do with engine replacements – I help out. He goes through it all with me and that is pretty cool.”

Mercedes-Benz is a leader in the electrification of the automotive industry and working at a Mercedes dealership means Emma is getting exposed to this technology. While she has worked on some EV components, she is keen to learn more. Happily, Mercedes-Benz does offer detailed training for its technicians and, now that she is qualified, she aims to do that training. She has also done an EV course through MTA Queensland.

At 20-years-old, Emma has a long career ahead of her. She hasn’t yet given too much thought as to direction it may take, but there is plenty of time, and where she is now with Mercedes is an excellent foundation.

“I haven’t really thought too far down the track,” she said. “Working on a race team would be cool, but I love working in the workshop I am currently in, and doing the job I am doing.”

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MATTHEW BOTTOMLEY

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: WESTPOINT AUTOS, HILLCREST

MATTHEW BOTTOMLEY was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for May 2024. The 21-year-old is in the third year of his light vehicle apprenticeship and works at the Westpoint Autos Hillcrest dealership, located just south of Brisbane.

According to both his employer and MTA Institute trainer Jens Puder, Matthew has proven to be an outstanding apprentice. He reached the final of the Technician Guild skills competition as a second-year apprentice in 2023 and, in a dealership that has a number of brands offering the latest technological advances, Matthew’s skills in diagnostics have proven very valuable. He is diagnosing complex issues in engine management systems, A/C systems, ADAS systems, electric vehicles and more.

“Matthew is not just a very good apprentice, he is an outstanding technician,” said Jens. “Not even the sky is the limit for this guy, and he is just at the beginning of an exceptional career.”

While he is kicking goals now as a

“I DO ENJOY TRYING TO WORK OUT WHAT IS GOING ON, AND THERE IS A LOT OF SATISFACTION IN FINDING THE PROBLEM AND WORKING OUT WHY IT IS DOING WHAT IT IS DOING.”

light vehicle apprentice, a career in the automotive industry was not actually something Matthew had given much thought to until relatively recently.

“I wasn’t really interested in cars until I got to the later years of high school,” Matthew told Motor Trader in May this year. “I did always like working with my hands though, and so I did do some work experience here at Westpoint Autos Hillcrest.”

That work experience was a turning point. Matthew enjoyed it immensely and approached his manager about getting a job with Westpoint.

“He said, ‘We’d love to have you, when can you start?’ and I pretty much started the first working day available,” said Matthew.

From that point on, Matthew flourished, swiftly building an impressive set of skills – including high-voltage, battery-electric vehicle skills – no doubt in part due to his exposure to the wide range of makes and models that come through the Westpoint Autos workshop.

“We get anything and everything here and I have been able to do some EV training through the different brands,” said Matthew. “I’ve done a course over a few days with Hyundai for de-energising and repowering, and done some with other brands too, but Hyundai is probably the main one I have worked on.

“And I am comfortable working on them,” he added. “Because I am not a qualified tech I am not ‘qualified’ to work on them,

THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS

so I still need to be supervised, but I am relatively confident working on them now.”

Of all the work he now does with Westpoint Autos, it is diagnostics that has proved to be of most interest to Matthew. In an industry where technology is always changing, it’s a terrific skill to have.

“I definitely favour diagnostics,” he said. “They are many different systems and even the smallest thing can cause all sorts of problems. I do enjoy trying to work out what is going on, and there is a lot of satisfaction in finding the problem and working out why it is doing what it is doing.”

As he edges closer to completing his

apprenticeship, Matthew said he had given a bit of thought to where his career might be headed. For Matthew, it involves sticking with Westpoint Autos and putting his hand up for even more training.

“I haven’t thought about having my own business, but I have definitely looked at Master Tech training,” he said. “We have six or seven brands here, and I am hoping to work towards being a Master Tech for all the brands I can. So there’s plenty of training for me down the track.”

BLAKE PEAGHAM

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: CAM DUFFY AUTOS, ATHERTON

BLAKE PEAGHAM was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the month for June 2024.

The 39-year-old recently completed his light vehicle apprentice at Cam Duffy Autos in Atherton, and impressed both his employer and MTA Institute trainer with his ability, positive attitude, attention to detail, and professionalism.

This is not the first go at a light vehicle apprenticeship for Blake. After finishing high school some 20 years ago, he got a couple of years into an apprenticeship - coincidently also at Cam Duffy Autos - before deciding to go a different route, working in transportation and starting his own business in that sector.

A couple of decades on and the idea took shape to return to the workshop environment and potentially complete that apprenticeship.

"It is what I wanted to do when I left school," said Blake when speaking with Motor Trader in June. "I did a prevocational course and then 'job-jumped' around a bit between three different places. The last place I worked back then, when I was 20, was Cam Duffy Autos, so I did actually do a portion of my apprenticeship.

"However, I was a young man and I went out and had a fantastic adventure for 20 years. I spent a long time in transport and drove trucks all over Australia. It was a really well-paid holiday to be honest with you!"

Blake said it was partly due to 'being ready to settle down', getting 'stabilised' and, perhaps, acknowledging how tough running a business can be that played a role in him looking to return to the workshop and an apprenticeship.

2024 APPRENTICE OF THE

Keen to find out the lay of the land in the auto industry, Blake called his one-time employer Cam Duffy top see what was happening.

"He said he had plenty of work and actually had a spot for me," said Blake. "When I mentioned I was interested he said they'd help me finish my apprenticeship."

Although Blake had completed those couple of years of training 20 years ago, he effectively had to start again from scratch.

"It was too long ago, and I was very grateful to be able to go back and do that training again as I have taken quite a bit out of it," he said.

While Blake has now completed his training, he recognises that continual learning, especially in the age of electrification, is a feature of the auto industry.

"They are going to be a part of the industry," he said of electrified vehicles. "And I have already spoken to my MTA Institute trainer about it."

Having once been a business owner, it might be natural to think that Blake might complete his apprenticeship and look to branch out and flex his business muscles once again. However, while he said running a business can be rewarding, it can also take the emphasis away from the work and the satisfaction to be drawn from it.

"I had my own business, and I didn't really get out of that what I thought I would," he said. "Being in a workshop with other guys means you're working with other people and you're part of a team. And that is really good.”

BRYDON DENNIS

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: AUTO GIANT, BRENDALE

BRYDON DENNIS was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the month for July 2024.

The 26-year-old is set to complete his light vehicle apprenticeship in the next few weeks, having powered through his training while working for Tony Fasano at the modern, advanced Auto Giant workshop in Brendale, north Brisbane. Finishing his training early is a result of his ability, enthusiasm, dedication to pursue an automotive career and to learn as much as he can on that journey.

While he came a little late to the trade, Brydon always had an interest and passion for cars and harboured an ambition to work in the automotive industry from early on. However, the opportunity to pursue that ambition took a while to arrive, and he worked a number of jobs prior to being taken on by Auto Giant. Those jobs did, however, provide a good grounding when the move to the workshop came.

“I'd always worked in factories before working here, and in those factories I had the opportunity to work on a lot of different machines and mechanical and electrical hydraulics, and got a taste of working on motors,” said Brydon when

THE YEAR AWARD FINALISTS

talking with Motor Trader earlier this year.

“I worked on my own car too, including rebuilding the motor, and that also helped to get me in the door here at Auto Giant. Tony looked at all that and saw something in me and took me on.”

Leaving one career to start again as an apprentice in another is a big step but, when the chance comes, said Brydon, you have to take it. Given a tip by a friend of the opportunity at Auto Giant, he reached out to Tony to see if he could take that step.

“One of my friends used to work here, and he sort of gave me a heads-up and said to send through my resume. And then I kept pestering Tony until he got back to me with the sign-up papers,” said Brydon.

“At the time, I realised that I wasn't going to get another opportunity to get into something like this. You just have to jump on the opportunity sometimes.”

With Auto Giant offering services for all makes and models of vehicle, Brydon has been able to learn in a first-class workshop environment, and he likes to push and challenge himself to get everything out of the experience.

“I enjoy pretty much everything that we do here, but I do prefer doing big engine jobs and getting into the nitty gritty stuff. The diagnostic work really interests me

as well,” he said. “The only way to get the knowledge under your belt is to work on everything. I always try and take the bigger jobs, if I can, to learn more and more.”

While he has moved swiftly through his training, Brydon recognises that the automotive industry is evolving in such a way that training will be a major feature of his career moving forward, including when it comes to electrified vehicles.

So, more training is definitely on the cards. Beyond that, there’s the potential to establish a really successful career with Auto Giant as it too evolves and expands.

“Tony wants to have more shops, so there are opportunities there and that would be a great future,” said Brydon.

“In the meantime, I'm looking at doing an introductory course into hybrid and electric vehicles with MTAQ once I've finished my apprenticeship. I need to get my head around that because we're not going have a choice in 10 years or so. Also, as soon as I finish this apprenticeship, hopefully I can start the sign-up process to do my heavy vehicle apprenticeship, and I’d also look at doing auto electrical as well.”

TRENT JONES

APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE

EMPLOYER: BOB PARKES AUTOMOTIVE, TOWNSVILLE

TRENT JONES was the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for August 2024. When speaking with Motor Trader at the time, the 34-year-old had just completed his light vehicle apprenticeship at Bob Parkes Automotive in Townsville - a business owned by Robert Parkes that offers specialist services in fabrication and

CLICK TO VISIT THE AUTO GIANT WEBSITE

bespoke exhaust work as well as general maintenance and repair services.

An outstanding member of the team and a diligent student during his apprenticeship, Trent is currently in his second stint as an employee at the business, having initially joined straight out of school in 2008.

The chance to take on a Boilermaker apprenticeship would subsequently present itself and see Trent leave Bob Parkes, establish himself in that trade and gain significant experience in it.

“I was here at Bob Parkes for about four-and-a-half years from 2008, and I was doing exhaust fitting and stuff like that as a trades assistant,” said Trent. “I left to go and work at Rydweld - which manufactures trays, bull-bars, and truck bodies - and I did my boilermaker apprenticeship there. I was there for about 8 years.”

While Trent enjoyed the work of a boilermaker, he had always been interested in cars and the mechanical side of things, and the call of the workshop was always there. When the opportunity arose to take the step back into it, he took it.

It was not the easiest decision to make, however. It was a big call financially to go from being an experienced worker in one trade to drop back and be an apprentice in another. And to add to the complexity of that decision was that Trent is married with a young family. The desire to become a mechanic was strong enough though that with the support of his family and Rob Parkes, he was able to make the move.

“Me and my wife had lots of conversations over what we could do and what we could afford to do,” said Trent. “So, I had a few good chats with her and a few chats with Rob and we came to an agreement. It was still quite a substantial pay gap from what I was on, but we got through it and came out

“I FEEL THAT IF YOU DON'T DO THAT EXTRA BIT OF TRAINING NOW, IT'S GOING TO COME BACK ON YOU LATER. YOU'LL NEED TO DO IT ANYWAY, SO BETTER TO GET A JUMP-START ON IT.”

on the good side of it now.”

Bob Parkes Automotive has been around for more than 50 years and its reputation for excellence extends to the custom design and fitting of exhaust systems. The skills Trent built over his years as a boilermaker have proven very useful and he now finds himself a dual-qualified tradesman able to do a vast variety of jobs that come through the shop.

“Part of my role here is to do all the custom exhaust systems and stuff like that,” he said.

With the transition to electrification underway, even a dual-qualified tradesman such as Trent recognises that he’ll be back in training mode soon.

“We see quite a lot of the hybrids but not many fully electric cars. It would be nice to get involved in the training and be qualified to do that,” he said. “I feel that if you don't do that extra bit of training now it's going to come back on you later. You’ll need to do it anyway so better to get a jump-start on it.”

That training lies sometime in the near future and, along with it, Trent said he would be looking to cement himself in his new career, work hard and provide for his family.

MTA QUEENSLAND THANKS PLATINUM SPONSORS CAPRICORN, SPIRIT SUPER, BUSY AT WORK, AND GATES FOR THEIR SUPPORT OF THE INDUSTRY AWARDS GALA

MTA QUEENSLAND’S

2024 INDUSTRY AWARDS GALA TICKETS

Put on your finest black-tie attire and join us for an unforgettable evening filled with entertainment, a three-course meal, drinks, live music, and dancing, as we unveil the 2024 MTA Queensland Industry Award winners!

Special Guest Speaker: WILL BROWN

V8 Supercars Driver, Red Bull Ampol Racing

Join us as Will shares his inspiring journey from Toowoomba to the racetrack with Red Bull Ampol Racing. With multiple wins and podium finishes, including the Australian Formula 4, Australian Toyota 86 Series, and TCR Australia, his story is one of talent, determination, and a passion for motorsport.

Master of Ceremonies: BEN DAVIS

Host of Channel 7News Sport Brisbane & SEN Radio

As the Head of Sport for 7News Brisbane and one of Brisbane’s most experienced media all-rounders, Ben brings decades of experience covering the biggest stories in sport and current affairs. Get ready for an engaging evening with our esteemed MC!

Entertainment by: PHAT SAUCE

Get ready to groove with Brisbane’s sensational music group! Known for their electrifying performances, Phat Sauce will keep the energy high and the dance floor alive throughout the night!

DON’T MISS OUT!

Be part of an evening filled with recognition, inspiration, and entertainment. Gather your colleagues and friends to celebrate excellence in our industry!

Date: Sat, 23 November 2024

Time: 6:00pm – 11:00pm Venue: W Hotel, Brisbane

Apprentice of the Month: October 2024

The MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month is proudly sponsored by CareSuper

APPRENTICE:

WADE BURGESS

WORKPLACE:

CPV LIFTS TECH, TARA

APPRENTICESHIP:

LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL

WADE BURGESS IS the MTA

Institute Apprentice of the Month for October 2024.

The 31-year-old has just begun the fourth year of his light vehicle apprentice and works at CPV Lifts Tech, an independent workshop and RACQ contractor in Tara, four hours west of Brisbane. He is, according to his MTA Institute trainer Andrew Elson, ‘an excellent asset to the workplace and operates at a far higher level than most of his peers.’

apprenticeship.

“I was super-keen for that because I was already doing the work and, as Danny said, why not have a qualification to go along with it? So, I got signed up and got cracking,” said Wade.

That was in August 2022 and the couple of years since then have been very busy.

Clearly, Wade is not afraid of hard work. For one thing, working at CPV Lifts Tech means working on a wide variety of vehicles.

“It's really interesting out here . . . one minute you'll be working on an old ’cruiser or Ford, and the next you're working on a new hybrid RAV4,” said Wade. “We are the RACQ contractor for this area, so we see a lot of stuff with breakdowns. What we work on is very diverse”

At 31, Wade may be a latecomer to an automotive apprenticeship, but he has worked with engines and mechanical equipment for most of his life. Upon finishing school, he did that kind of hands-on work on rural properties then in the mining industry. He would eventually return to the Tara region to again work in the rural sector, now as his own boss.

“I’ve always been mechanically minded,” said Wade. “We didn't always have access to mechanics when I was on properties, so we had to fix our own stuff.

“MECHANICS ARE QUITE HARD TO COME BY AND WITH TECHNOLOGY SCREAMING FORWARD IN LEAPS AND BOUNDS, WE NEED TO KEEP UP WITH IT.”

“When I went back to agriculture, we were rural contracting – doing everything from fencing, pipelines, land clearing, maintaining dozers and that sort of stuff – and I had my own business offering those services. I had machinery such as trucks, bobcat excavators and so on and I did that for quite a while.

“I then decided to sell up and went back working for wages so I could be at home more. I got married, had a son who is now six years old, and then started here at CPV Lifts Tech in 2021.”

Wade started working at CPV Lifts Tech, with business owner Danny Russell, on days off from his regular job. Eventually, he proposed to work at the workshop on a more formal basis. Danny accepted and suggested Wade take on an

Along with the automotive work and training Wade is, as is his wife, a firefighter for the Queensland Fire Department and also a business owner. In November 2022, the couple established Tara Saws and Mowers, a Stihl outdoor power equipment shop, and that enterprise is successful enough that they are to open another in Taroom in January.

Completing a light vehicle apprenticeship, establishing a new business, and having the responsibility of being a firefighter seems like an incredible amount to take on. Wade seems unfazed, and said he was looking forward to doing more training once he had completed his current apprenticeship. The advances in the auto industry, and the auto environment of Tara demanded it.

“We are out in the sticks, but we do have two Tesla Model 3s getting around town,” said Wade. “We haven't seen EVs in the workshop yet, but it's only a matter of time and I am going to do some EV training later this month in St George with MTA Queensland.

“I will also look at doing my EV apprenticeship later, as well as the small motor apprenticeship. My plan is to continue with training and get as much knowledge under my belt as I can. Mechanics are quite hard to come by and with technology screaming forward in leaps and bounds, we need to keep up with it.”

• Are you employing an apprentice who is excelling in the workplace?

• Do you have a high-achieving apprentice colleague?

If the answer is ‘yes’, then nominate them for the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month Award.

• Are they training with MTA Institute? CLICK HERE FOR

MTA Institute Graduates

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF THE MTA INSTITUTE GRADUATES WHO WERE ISSUED A QUALIFICATION IN OCTOBER 2024!

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Mace Davis

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Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Body Repair Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology

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Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Refinishing Technology

Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)

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Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology (Mobile Plant Equipment)

Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

Certificate III in Outdoor Power Equipment Technology

Certificate III in Outdoor Power Equipment Technology

Keiran Charters

Keiran Charters

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INDUSTRY WORKING TOGETHER TO TACKLE WORKFORCE CHALLENGES

CONNECTING AUTOMOTIVE

BUSINESSES with the enthusiastic young people who will become the future leaders and skilled workers within the industry is one part of MTA Queensland’s strategy to help tackle the workforce challenge many businesses face.

The most obvious example of the Association’s work in this area is in its relationship with Capricorn, which has seen it run careers expos in parallel to the frequently held Capricorn trade shows, shepherding hundreds of school students and young people through the events to meet the many businesses that attend.

However, MTA Queensland works closely with other organisations as well to provide businesses with workforce assistance, including Busy At Work which, amongst other avenues, works with MTA Queensland to deliver the Automotive Women in Trades Apprenticeship Mentoring Program.

One instance of the successful collaboration between these two leading organisations is 17-year-old Ripley Lewis, who recently started a school-based light vehicle apprenticeship with Fulcrum Suspensions at Arundel on the Gold Coast.

“I started my apprenticeship in August, and I have been doing lift kits on different types of 4WD drives of late, but also little bits and bobs on other different types of cars, and also learning about wheel aligning,” said Ripley. “And I am really enjoying it.”

It was back in 2023 that Ripley attended a Women on Tools event hosted by NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) at which she

“WHAT I REALLY LIKED ABOUT RIPLEY WHEN I MET HER WAS THAT SHE HAD A GREAT ENTHUSIASM FOR THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY, AND CARS IN PARTICULAR...”

connected with Kate Shapiro, a Women in Trades Specialist Support Officer with Busy At Work.

That meeting would lead to Ripley completing a Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation and, ultimately, with her resumé reaching Tegan Crossman, the Automotive Schools Program Coordinator at MTA Queensland. Tegan then worked with Leanne McKay from Fulcrum Suspensions to find Ripley a spot with the company – a spot that started with a trial day, but which soon led to an apprenticeship position.

“My trial day went really well,” said Ripley. “A little while later I was offered the apprenticeship and that has been going really well. It is exactly what I expected and hoped for. It’s definitely hard work, but it’s also very enjoyable. I love my job!”

A passionate young apprentice is exactly what Wade Butt, Manager of the Fulcrum Gold Coast shop, was looking for.

“What I really liked about Ripley when I met her was that she had a great enthusiasm for the automotive industry, and cars in particular, which is getting harder and harder to find,” he said. “That’s what drew me to her and what made me want to give her a chance.

“. . . And she is going really well. Very enthusiastic. I don’t have to

ask her to do things around the shop . . . she’s happy to get in there and give it a go.”

Like many businesses in the automotive industry, including other major players, Fulcrum Suspensions recognises how important it is to encourage and support the next generation of apprentices and technicians. It likely helps that as vehicle manufacturers make ever more interesting and technologically advanced cars, Fulcrum is doing the same with its own products and services – a move that should be compelling to the younger generation.

“For young people, this is an area of growth . . . We are unique in that we design and manufacture a lot of the equipment that we install, and our apprentices get access to our research and development team,” said Leanne McKay from Fulcrum. “They can talk

to the engineers that are designing these components, and they can see how we’ve developed strategies to adapt to changing technologies, the new vehicles coming in and changing demands of our customers.

“For those who are passionate, it’s a really interesting and intriguing industry to be part of.”

For Ripley, her interest in cars and her enjoyment of the work should see her launch what will become a long and successful career in the industry. However, there is support out there for her, should she require it.

Recognising that apprentices can find the early months and years quite tough and can sometimes fall by the wayside and leave the industry before completion, organisations such as MTA Queensland and Busy At Work, as well as the businesses

VIDEO: RIPLEY LEWIS: FULCRUM SUSPENSIONS APPRENTICE

CLICK FOR MORE ON BUSY SISTERS

Apprentice Ripley Lewis with Fulcrum Suspensions Gold Coast workshop manager Wade Butt

for which the apprentices work, are putting in the effort to support them.

MTA Queensland and Busy At Work, through its Busy Sisters program, have partnered to deliver the Automotive Women in Trades Apprenticeship Mentoring Program which offers support to female apprentices through the first couple of years of their training. Other initiatives and programs, including the School to Work program, are available through MTA Queensland’s Workforce Solutions team and offer apprentices and businesses the support they may need.

Ripley has recently joined that Automotive Women in Trades Apprenticeship Mentoring Program but has already enjoyed some support in her quest to join the industry.

“Busy Sisters has supported me along the way since I first started . . .,” she said. “They have helped from the beginning in terms of even getting my apprenticeship and giving me the courage to sign up.”

That support would be ongoing, said Kate Shapiro, and was a sign of the strong and meaningful relationships being built between key industry organisations, businesses and stakeholders.

“Busy at Work is connected with MTA Queensland’s School to Work program,” she said.

“Specifically with Ripley, we have worked together not only to

“THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEEDS SKILLED WORKERS AND MTA QUEENSLAND, THROUGH THESE PROGRAMS, IS THERE TO HELP.”

find the right candidate but, along with the incredible employer here at Fulcrum Suspensions are working together in creating Ripley’s apprenticeship and supporting her throughout that process.”

MTA Queensland will continue to work on creating the best opportunities for young people to get into the automotive industry and to help businesses secure the talent they need to tackle their workforce challenges.

“MTA Queensland has a number of initiatives now in place that are designed to put young people in contact with automotive businesses and help them secure schoolbased apprenticeships and work experience and help guide and assist them through their training as well,” said Tegan Crossman. “The automotive industry needs skilled workers and MTA Queensland, through these programs, is there to help.

School to Work Transitions is part of the Queensland Government's Good people.

Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.

Kate Shapiro from Busy At Work, Wade and RIpley from Fulcrum Suspensions, and Tegan Crossman from MTA Queensland

STUDENTS TACKLE VEHICLE WRAPPING AS MTAQ & AVERY DENNISON COLLABORATE ON TRAINING PROGRAM

CAR WRAPPING IS becoming an increasingly popular way for enthusiasts to personalise and customise their vehicles. And, like spray painting, when it’s done by a skilled practitioner, wrapping can result in personalised designs, vibrant colours, and high-quality finishes that can be quite stunning.

However, wrapping is not only about unique and jaw-dropping aesthetics on any single, individual car. Wrapping materials are used for fleet graphics too, adorning all manner of commercial vehicles, and can also provide a protective shield, preserving a car’s original paintwork from the wear and tear of daily driving.

One of the vehicle-wrapping sector's biggest players is Avery Dennison - a global materials science and manufacturing company known for its adhesive technologies, labelling, and graphics

“THE IDEA WITH THIS COURSE WAS TO TAKE PEOPLE FROM OUTSIDE OF THE INDUSTRY THAT HAD NO EXPERIENCE WITH SIGNAGE, FILMS OR ANY OF THE EQUIPMENT AT ALL, AND GIVE THEM EVERYTHING THEY NEED TO KNOW IN THAT ONE-WEEK PERIOD TO BE ABLE TO GO INTO THE WORKFORCE.”

materials. The company’s car wrap products include a wide variety of films offering different finishes - such as gloss, matte, satin, and metallic - as well as textured wraps and specialty films that mimic carbon fibre or brushed metals. It also supplies material with air-release technology, which helps eliminate

bubbles during application.

For those with a bit of knowledge about wrapping, the image of someone using a heat gun to adhere the wrap material to a vehicle panel’s surface may be vaguely familiar thanks to an abundance of YouTube videos on the subject. Avery Dennison certainly manufactures that type of material, but it also produces wrap materials that can be placed, adjusted, removed, and placed again with no heat applied at all. Now that is clever stuff.

The wrapping sector is one that is predicted to expand, with reports suggesting significant growth over the next few years. This is due in part to the interest in

personalisation and customisation, but also because of fleet vehicle wrapping and using vehicles as mobile adverts. Knowing how to wrap is a skill worth having and cultivating, and last month saw a group of seven students attend a week-long introductory wrapping course developed by Avery Dennison.

Those students were brought together by MTA Queensland and its Workforce Solutions team through the Opening Doors to the Automotive Industry program, which sees MTA Queensland work with partners to develop pathways to employment for non-traditional cohorts and prepare them to work in the automotive industry.

The aim of the introductory course was to impart to the students an understanding of the wrapping process and enough skills that immediate entry-level positions within the sector can be attainable.

Developed by Vaughan Philip, Avery Dennison’s Technical Services Manager, the course focused primarily on fleet wrapping – advertising branding rather than changing the colour of a vehicle - and was delivered by Vaughan and Technical

VIDEO: AVERY DENNISON & MTAQ WRAPPING TRAINING

Services Specialist Todd Hapgood at the company’s purpose-built Training and Innovation Centre in Brisbane.

While there was plenty of handson, practical training involved in the course, the fundamentals regarding tools, film and material types, printing graphics, and material selection were also covered. Even the business side of wrapping was considered with, amongst others, presentations delivered on how to quote, picking the right products for the job, working out install times, and understanding warranties and more.

To wrap things up, the students were introduced to some of Avery Dennison’s customers on the last day of the course as the focus swung from training to finding potential employers and jobs in the sector.

Talking to Motor Trader as the course neared its completion, Vaughan said it had been a successful inaugural program – one that could both provide a sector looking for installers with suitably trained workers while also providing another avenue and potential career pathway for people interested in working in the automotive industry.

“The idea with this course was to take people from outside of the industry that

had no experience with signage, films or any of the equipment at all, and give them everything they need to know in that one-week period to be able to go into the workforce,” said Vaughan.

“. . . There's a lot going on in the course. A lot to learn. They’re picking it up really well.

“After day one, we had them applying graphics to cars, and now we've spent a couple of days of just making sure the quality is very high . . . We're working on some of the finer details and I would say, at this level right now, they're probably capable enough to go into the workforce and start wrapping cars. We're going to spend the next couple of days just making sure that their skill levels are very high.”

For Harper Atwal, one fo the students attending the course, the opportunity to experience what was involved in an automotive-related sector offered a new career option was one he appreciated and enjoyed immensely.

Vaughan Philip (front left) and Todd Hapgood (left, back row) with the students who successfully completed the Avery Dennison vehicle wrapping course.

“AVERY DENNISON, LIKE OTHER MAJOR COMPANIES INVOLVED WITH THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY, REALISE HOW IMPORTANT IT IS TO ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT THE NEXT GENERATION WHO WILL CONTINUE TO ADVANCE AND GROW THE INDUSTRY.”

“I found out about this course through my job service provider, and then I went to MTAQ for the introduction day, which was really good. I liked that and I didn't want to let the opportunity go because I really like working with cars,” he said.

“The course has been really fun . . . I have watched a few videos on wrapping in the past and thought I'd enjoy it,” added Harper. “I really enjoy working with cars - I did car detailing before this – and wrapping is sort of the next step to detailing . . . I really hope to get a job doing car wrapping in the future because I really enjoy it.”

For MTA Queensland, this course, the collaboration with Avery Dennison, and the meet-and-greet with potential employers highlights how stakeholder partnerships are crucial in tackling workforce and skills challenges within the automotive industry.

“Partnering with Avery Dennison to provide young people with the opportunity

to learn new skills and be exposed to the workings, technology, and business of the vehicle wrapping sector is just the sort of program and engagement that MTA Queensland and the Workforce Solutions team aims to foster and promote,” said Bob Grierson, Industry Workforce Mentor with MTA Queensland. “The students loved learning the skills needed to be able to work in the sector, and they will receive support from us to find jobs and pursue that career should they wish to do so.

“Avery Dennison, like other major companies involved with the automotive industry, realise how important it is to encourage and support the next generation who will continue to advance and grow the industry. We look forward to working with their team on future courses and programs, while also building relationships with other companies to provide similar pathways for those looking to join the automotive industry.”

The Opening Doors to the Automotive Industry program is funded through the Workforce Connect Fund, powered by the Queensland Government's Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.

Motor Trader’s Christmas Gift Guide

❶ BMW GROUP: 100 MASTERPIECES

Something for the BMW enthusiasts, this publication celebrates 100 years of the brand from its founding in 1916. Text and images explain the innovations featured in each vehicle and a special section is devoted to BMW motorcycles. Other chapters focus on BMW motorsport, the high-end engineering process and the brand itself.

PRICE: $77.70 (at time of writing)

Available from Sweetpea & Willow

❷ MONACO GRAND PRIX POSTER

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most famous and prestigious of all Formula One races. Held in the glorious location since 1929, the race is glamorised here by a poster depicting the 1933 Grand Prix. Different sizes are available with the largest at 50cm x 70cm.

PRICES: from $10.17 to $23.97 (at time of writing & depending on poster size) Available from Desenio

❸ GENTLEMEN’S HARDWARE CAMPING CUTLERY MULTI-TOOL

Strictly speaking not that car related – but we know a lot of our readers like to jump into the 4WD for a bit of outback camping, so we thought this tool might come in handy. Not your average utensil, the tool has everything you’ll need. It consists of fork, knife, spoon, corkscrew, bottle, can opener and short blade, is made

of stainless steel and has wooden handles. Dimensions are 12cm x 5cm x 2.5cm.

PRICE: $29.90 (at time of writing)

Available from The Design Gift Shop

❹ AIDEN SORTER TRUCK by Kid’s Concept

Something for the little ones –a truck that serves as both toy truck and shape-sorting cube. The truck comes with six blocks in different shapes and colours. Playing with shape-sorting cubes helps your child to develop their logical thinking and fine motor skills and recognise different geometric shapes.

• Rec. Age: 1 year

• Dimensions: 30cm x 13cm x 14cm

PRICE: $77.80 (at time of writing)

Available from Pocketkids.co.uk

❺ MERCEDES BENZ 300SL KEYRING & WODDEN GARAGE by Corpus Delicti

A bit of fun for Merc owners and Enthusiasts – an elegant, red Mercedes-Benz 300SL (the Gullwing) as a keyring with its own wooden garage for storage. The garage can be installed on the wall with the included mounting accessories.

• The length of the car is approximately 50mm and is at 1/87 scale.

PRICE: $79.90 (at time of writing)

Available from The Design Gift Shop

Concept corner

ALPINE A390 BETA

BETA SPORT FASTBACK

Concept corner

ALPINE, THE PERFORMANCE

brand of Renault, took the wraps off a new electric vehicle (EV) concept last month.

The ‘sport fastback’ A390_ß (with ß the symbol for Beta) has plenty of flair and style and Alpine says it will form part of the trio of sports cars – that includes the A290 hot hatch and future electric A110 – that will mark the brand’s electric transition.

Alpine says the show car is 85 per cent true to that of a future production model. If that is so, then there’s some nice features awaiting owners.

There’s the design, of course, which is very tasty and includes features such as a swarm of illuminated triangles called “Cosmic Dust” under the front and rear

ALPINE SAYS THE SHOW CAR IS 85 PER CENT TRUE TO THAT OF A FUTURE PRODUCTION MODEL. IF THAT IS SO, THEN THERE’S SOME NICE FEATURES AWAITING OWNERS.

lighting strip. Also up front, a “flying bridge” enhances airflow over the upper part of the vehicle, and the rear end includes a shark fin - a reference to the Alpine brand’s racing history and its cars racing at Le Mans.

Clever aerodynamic tech includes an illuminated strip at the rear that works in harmony with the rear diffuser and

can be extended or retracted by 80mm, enabling the A390_ß to transform from a 'short-tail' to a 'long-tail' design and enable the enhancing of the vehicle’s aerodynamic drag coefficient. There’s a snowflake design to the spectacular 22-inch front wheels and 23-inch rear wheels.

There’s a conceptual flavour to the interior, with features that include the use of an ice crystal as a key, with it placed at the centre of the steering wheel to bring the vehicle to life.

Derived from Formula One, there’s an OV, or 'overtake' button, that allows full power to be delivered instantly, while further buttons allow for modifying the hydraulic suspension, metering the regenerative braking and adapting the multimedia modes.

ALPINE SAYS THE FUTURE SPORT FASTBACK WILL FEATURE THREE ELECTRIC MOTORS - ONE AT THE FRONT AND TWO AT THE REAR.

Alpine says the future sport fastback will feature three electric motors - one at the front and two at the rear. It will also feature an AWD (all-wheel drive) system.

Axle drive and active torque vectoring will be managed by an intelligent torque management system.

Alpine says the production version of the A390 will be manufactured from 2025.