NISSAN UNWRAPS THE ALL-NEW PATROL
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER OF MTA QUEENSLAND? CLICK HERE
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
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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 September edition of Motor Trader.
It has been a busy few weeks for the auto industry, internationally and locally. Overseas, Monterey Car Week saw the reveal of some rather jaw-dropping luxury and performance cars while in Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates, the next-generation Nissan Patrol - a favourite of the off-road enthusiast - made its debut. This new Patrol, it must be said, looks pretty special and we take a look at it and some of the vehicles of Monterey Car Week inside this edition.
Locally, the past few weeks have seen MTA Queensland involved in some important developments. These include the release of new reports on
how to deal with end-of-life vehicles and the use of nongenuine parts for collision repairers; and we saw the Department of Transport and Main Roads decide to introduce three-month registration terms for motor vehicle dealerssomething for which MTA Queensland has long argued. We cover these topics too and you can read more about them from pages 20 through 25.
Also worthy of note in the past few weeks is the news that the Queensland government has ended the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Rebate Scheme - a scheme which had offered significant rebates to buyers of new EVs. The effect this will have on the EV sector will be seen over the next few months, but one suspects that even if sales continue to slow, the influx of new EV models - including, for example, the Zeekr X which you can read about on page 52 - will continue to intrigue the public.
I hope you enjoy this edition of Motor Trader.
Cheers
Jonathan Nash, Editor jonathann@mtaq.com.au
MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members
Search for MTA Queensland
POWER & PRESTIGE: NISSAN UNWRAPS THE ALL-NEW PATROL
26
DRIVING TO SUCCEED: QUEENSLAND’S AUTO INDUSTRY BATTLES IT OUT ON THE GOLF COURSE
MTA Q&A: ATHERTON MECHANICAL SERVICES
CONCEPT CORNER: ARIEL E-NOMAD CONCEPT
From the Desk of Management
ROD CAMM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
THE AUTOMOTIVE
INDUSTRY continues to develop and workloads remain high. This is pleasing but of course that does mean we are experiencing unprecedented challenges in finding the right people at the right time.
We remain committed to helping industry in this challenge and now have a range of programs designed to do just that – parachute new employees into your business. An example many of you will have noted is that we are holding career expos in partnership with Capricorn at trade shows across the state. These have proven to be a powerful and effective way of getting young people in front of employers hungry to find enthusiastic and curious potential apprentices. I encourage you to attend these events when they land in your region.
WE REMAIN COMMITTED TO HELPING INDUSTRY IN THIS CHALLENGE AND NOW
HAVE A RANGE OF PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO DO JUST THAT –
PARACHUTE NEW EMPLOYEES INTO YOUR BUSINESS.
Information on other initiatives now in place can be found on our website HERE, where you can also reach out to our hardworking Workforce Solutions team. They are here to assist you in tackling these issues so, if you do need some help, get in contact.
With the Queensland election now only a month away, next week we will release our Election Blueprint, which outlines the commitments we are seeking from both sides of politics.
We are looking for substantive change in workforce solutions and skills shortages, support for industry viability, end-of-life vehicle planning and substantive improvement to the AIS scheme and regulation of fraudulent behaviour.
All issues raised by our members drive our priorities.
KELLIE DEWAR DEPUTY CEO | GENERAL MANAGER MEMBER SERVICES
MTA QUEENSLAND is proud to represent employers in the retail, repair, and service sectors of Queensland’s automotive industry. Over the past month, we have worked alongside our national body, MTAA, to create a range of resources aimed at supporting member businesses.
SUPPORTING AUTO PARTS RECYCLERS
MTAA and FCAI recently released the Outlook for End-of-Life Vehicles in Australia report. This comprehensive study provides a pathway for boosting automotive recycling through a product stewardship scheme. It provides strategies to enhance vehicle recycling, reduce landfill, and prevent interstate leakage.
The report was launched at the 2024 APRAA Conference, a two-day national parts recyclers conference held in August. This event brought together a diverse group of automotive recycling experts who exchanged valuable insights on sales, production, and operational practices within the industry.
You can read more about that report on pages 22-23
SUPPORTING COLLISION REPAIRERS
To empower repairers in navigating the complex landscape of insurance demands, MTAA has released a guide on Using NonGenuine Parts: Legal Rights & Risks for Collision Repairers. This will be the first in a series of guides, clarifying repairer rights against unreasonable or prohibited insurer requests.
You can read more about the guide on page 24.
SUPPORTING NEW AND USED CAR DEALERSHIPS
MTA Queensland has long pushed for motor vehicle dealers to have the option of three-month registration terms. Excitingly, these changes have now been put into effect! This development is a significant win for our members, as it will offer motor dealers more flexibility and alleviate the financial strain associated with longer registration periods.
You can read more about that on page 25.
To find out how you can get involved and help shape the future of the industry, please contact MTA Queensland on info@maq.com.au
Are you getting the most out of your Membership?
MTAQ members have access to a Commonwealth Bank Relationship Manager who can arrange for you to receive information on:
• For your eftpos – a Commonwealth Bank Relationship Manager can provide information on the Least Cost Routing options.^
•
Everyday banking solutions including business accounts and eftpos terminals.
• Funding options including Business Credit Cards, Car and Equipment Finance and Business Loans.
These solutions may help you manage cash flow and expand your business.
To find out how Commonwealth Bank can help your business move forward, 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
Not so long ago, my Landcruiser was losing boost and I was in a rush. I dropped into Atherton Mechanical Services where the boss, Aaron McIlrath, sorted the big girl out in no time. I noticed the MTA Queensland membership signage in the workshop and made the time to drop by later for a chat with Aaron and his wife Tammy.
HOW LONG HAS ATHERTON MECHANICAL SERVICES BEEN OPERATIONAL?
AM: Atherton Mechanical Services first opened the roller door to the workshop in 2004. We bought the business and took over the workshop four short years ago in September of 2020. At the time we had two
small children and a big dream to build a business we can be proud of.
HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY?
AM: Growing up, I always had an interest in machinery and vehicles. At a young age I would help my dad to maintain and repair
Aaron and Tammy McIlrath, owners of Atherton Mechanical Services
WORDS & IMAGES : LARA WILDE
“WE OPENED THE ROLLER DOOR TO THE WORKSHOP FOUR SHORT YEARS AGO IN SEPTEMBER OF 2020. AT THE TIME WE HAD TWO SMALL CHILDREN AND A BIG DREAM TO BUILD A BUSINESS WE CAN BE PROUD OF.”
his backhoe. As soon as I finished school I signed up as an apprentice mechanic with a local Tablelands business. Once I completed my trade, I worked remotely managing a light vehicle mechanic workshop where I had the opportunity to service and repair all types of plant and equipment. Being away from home was hard though, so now I am the owner and operator of my own workshop, Atherton Mechanical Services.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN PRODUCTS AND SERVICES YOU OFFER AT ATHERTON MECHANICAL SERVICES?
AM: We are primarily an automotive servicing and repair workshop. We do logbook servicing of new and old vehicles, and we can write roadworthy certificates for vehicles that qualify as road worthy. We also specialise in brake and clutch servicing, and engine diagnostics using our advanced diagnostic tooling system. Locally, we have a reputation for
MTA | Q&A
suspension repairs and upgrades, and we also provide custom installed exhausts and repairs, particularly for the unique vehicles.
ARE YOU STILL HANDS ON IN THE BUSINESS TODAY?
AM: I am very hands on in the workshop and at the front service counter with customers. I like to take the time to explain any major work required and when I am carrying out repairs, I will often keep the part being repaired or replaced to show the customer, so they understand what work has taken place. I think it makes a huge difference to the customer if they meet their mechanic and have that conversation about their car. They feel safer and more understood.
WHO IS IN YOUR CURRENT ATHERTON MECHANICAL SERVICES TEAM?
AM: There is myself, the owner, operator and trade-qualified mechanic; my wife Tammy McIlrath, who is also an owner and manages the office and administration side of the business; Mihaly Boda, who is a qualified mechanic; Brooklyn Brown, our apprentice mechanic; and Chloe Barletta, who greets our customers with a smile as
“KEEP BEING INQUISITIVE AND BE CURIOUS. THERE IS ALWAYS SOMETHING NEW TO LEARN SO ASK LOTS OF QUESTIONS AND KEEP TRAINING.”
DO YOU SPONSOR ANY LOCAL MOTORSPORT?
AM: As a family and a small business, we don’t currently compete in any local motorsport. We would like to support our local community though, and we think it could be a great way to get our name out to the local car-loving community. For now, we are waiting for the right opportunity to present itself.
WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR ATHERTON MECHANICAL SERVICES IN THE NEXT FEW YEARS?
AM: It is really important that we keep up with any new technology and continue to offer a high level of expertise and service. Our MTA Queensland membership will be invaluable with staying up to date with the latest developments and training in the
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A YOUNGER YOU STARTING OUT IN THE INDUSTRY?
AM: Keep being inquisitive and be curious. There is always something new to learn so ask lots of questions and keep training.
HOW MUCH IMPORTANCE DO YOU PLACE ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
isolated, and we can reduce the time spent on the repair.
DO YOU CONSIDER THAT THE ADVANCEMENTS IN ELECTRIC VEHICLES WILL HAVE AN IMPACT ON YOUR BUSINESS?
AM: We find social media, particularly Facebook, really important for us locally. It allows our customers to feel connected and to engage with our family story. We have noticed that we get the most interactions when we post a video of custom work like an exhaust installation. Posts about customer vehicles that are a bit out of the ordinary with a bit of grunt tend to get the most views and generate the most business.
WHAT DO YOU SEE AS THE GREATEST ADVANCEMENT IN TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
AM: We own an Advanced Diagnostic Tool that uses an intelligent analysis to diagnose technical faults. It can be used on any make or model which is convenient and a quicker process so that faults can be
AM: We think it's still very early stages to have any impact on our business. Mainly because of where we are located on the Atherton Tablelands there's still a lot of people opting to keep their older vehicles. We haven’t seen a lot of electric vehicles in town yet but as the numbers increase, we will train up and be ready for them.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE GREATEST BENEFIT OF YOUR MTA QUEENSLAND MEMBERSHIP?
AM: We signed up as an MTA Queensland member when we opened the doors four years ago. Training our apprentices through MTA Queensland and the MTA Institute has been the greatest benefit from our membership because we see the trainer providing one-on-one, handson training with the individual in our workshop. That personalised service and custom delivery is vital.
The team at Atherton Mechanical Services: Chloe, Tammy and Aaron with daughter Isla, Brooklyn, and Mihaly
WHAT ARE YOUR GREATEST CHALLENGES AT ATHERTON MECHANICAL SERVICES?
AM: The greatest challenge we have is finding enthusiastic young people who are willing and wanting to learn the trade of becoming a mechanic. The nature of being a mechanic is to problem solve and look for where things might become an issue to do preventative maintenance. Solving complex problems can be intellectually challenging and carrying out the work is often very physical.
WHAT TRAINING DO YOU DO WITH STAFF?
AM: Our apprentices are trained through MTA Queensland and the MTA Institute. We also provide opportunities for staff to attend courses through other organisations to broaden their industry knowledge. This includes DPF Fault Finding, Catalytic Converter Testing, and Component and Sensor Diagnostics on vehicle fuel systems. Most importantly we are always sharing knowledge with staff from our own experience and mentoring them. WHAT VEHICLES DO YOU OWN?
AM: We have a Toyota Hilux workshop ute, and a Toyota Landcruiser as a family car and daily driver. Sitting at home is a
“OUR APPRENTICES ARE TRAINED
THROUGH
MTA QUEENSLAND AND THE MTA INSTITUTE. WE
ALSO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR STAFF TO ATTEND COURSES THROUGH OTHER ORGANISATIONS TO BROADEN THEIR INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE.”
1982 XE Ford Falcon ute that is currently undergoing a complete restoration. The XE has just been custom painted and is ready for the re-build.
WHAT DO YOU DO WITH YOUR SPARE TIME?
AM: We have a young family and a young business, so we don’t have a lot of spare time. When we do, we enjoy camping and riding the four-wheeler or motorbikes with our kids. Living in Far North Queensland on the Atherton Tablelands is as close to paradise as you can get. There are so many great locations to load up the family and the bikes and get away to relax.
Spirit Super and CareSuper intend to merge
On 1 November 2024, the merged fund will become a bigger and stronger fund to drive outstanding value and retirement confidence. With competitive fees and returns, exceptional service, and a focus on real care for our members –we’re going to be super together.
In June 2023, Spirit Super and CareSuper signed a joint agreement to merge.
Our funds share a vision to become a mid-sized industry super fund with a distinctive focus on customer experience and retirement confidence.
Our merger is on track to take effect on 1 November 2024, so you can look forward to being part of an even stronger fund that has your best interests at heart.
Why merge with CareSuper?
Like us, CareSuper is a high performing, profit-to-member industry super fund.
In 2023 we were both named in the top 10 performing funds over 10 years by the peak ratings agency SuperRatings1. This year, we’ve both been highly successful in the prestigious WeMoney 2024 superannuation awards2:
• Spirit Super – Best for Quality; runner up Superannuation Fund of the Year (Industry).
• CareSuper – Best for Flexibility; Best for Member Benefits.
Together, we’ll grow sustainably so we can keep bringing you the outstanding value and service that you’re used to.
What’s changing?
From 1 November it’s our intention to be called CareSuper. Our commitment to you won’t change and neither will our award-winning service.
So, when you visit our website and app from 1 November, you’ll still recognise our distinctive green Australia map icon, but our name will be different.
What if I need help with my superannuation?
We plan to keep and expand our award-winning customer service model and Australian contact centre.
This means when you call, email or chat with us online, we’ll be here with the information and support you need when you need it.
Spirit Super has been ranked number one for customer service in the finance sector (Customer Service Benchmarking Australia, ten consecutive wins since 2022).3
Keep an eye out for our updates as we keep you informed about the merger and what it means for you. For more details, visit spiritsuper.com.au/merger-info
1800 005 166
Awards and ratings are only one factor to be taken into account when
(SuperRatings)
(Lonsec Research) for the provision of research, reporting and marketing services,
the award methodology at superratings.com.au | Spirit Super has an agreement with WeMoney
logos, and for WeMoney to promote Spirit Super’s recognition through the WeMoney
has an agreement with Customer Service Benchmarking Australia (CSBA) (ABN 82 623 476 007) for quality assurance and staff training within our contact centre. Read about the award methodology at csba.com.au | Past performance isn’t a reliable indicator of future performance. Consider the PDS and TMD at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision. Issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (AFSL 238 718, ABN 14 008 650 628).
CAIRNS HOSTS BOARD MEETINGS AS MTA QUEENSLAND BOOSTS REGIONAL EMGAGEMENT & CONNECTION
MTA QUEENSLAND HAS been hitting the road in recent months with many of the team out across the state meeting members and attending expos, trade shows, and careers events to highlight the training options available through the MTA Institute and showcase the work of MTA Queensland in helping tackle the workforce and skills challenges the industry is currently facing.
Initiatives such as Auto School Connect, the School 2 Work program, the Opening Doors to the Automotive Industry program, and the Automotive Women in Trades Apprenticeships Mentoring Program, have seen teams from MTA Queensland in communities supporting members and engaging with school students and others interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry.
In July, MTA Queensland held its first Trackside Breakfast at the Townsville 500 Supercars event, with executives of the Association – including CEO Rod Camm, Deputy CEO Kellie Dewar, and Board Chairman Paul Peterson – attending the event and meeting members from across the city and beyond.
In August, the team headed to Cairns and held a pair of Board meetings, including one to discuss the Association’s strategic plan for the years ahead. Usually held at the MTA Queensland HQ in Brisbane, the decision to hold
“HOLDING THE MEETINGS IN CAIRNS WAS A REAL HELP IN GETTING INTELLIGENCE FROM THE COALFACE AND IMPROVING OUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH THIS IMPORTANT ELEMENT OF OUR INDUSTRY.”
the meetings in Cairns was, said Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland, a way of interacting directly with members and an invaluable way of receiving critical information and feedback from them.
“We are fundamentally committed to improving our services to members and hearing directly from them of the issues that impact their businesses,” said Mr Camm. “Our Board recognises the importance of regional members and ensuring their voice is heard in our policy deliberations. Holding the meetings in Cairns was a real help in getting intelligence from the coalface and improving our relationships with this important element of our industry.
“Outside of the formal meetings, a members’ event was held so members could meet with our Board and staff in a relaxed environment. I am pleased to say members not only turned up, but we have a great range of conversations
about the issues impacting on north Queensland.
“We received invaluable feedback and a genuine demand for more direct visits and services offered locally. As an example, we are now working with a local member who has offered their facility to run electric vehicle training. You could not achieve that through phone calls.”
The recent visits to Cairns and
Townsville will not be the last to regional centres for the MTA Queensland Board. Members can expect further meetings and visits to be held by the Association in regional Queensland.
“Both my team and the Board got a lot out of our visits, so there will be more,” said Mr Camm. “Our members are spread across Queensland, and we respect and value of their contribution.”
CAIRNS WORKSHOP SETTING THE STANDARD IN PAINT & PANEL REPAIR
WHILE IN CAIRNS, Motor Trader took the opportunity to catch up with Wes Jenkins, co-owner of Willmot Smash Repair Specialists.
An enormously successful enterprise, in the 45 years since the company was established by Alan Willmot, Willmot Smash Repair has grown from a small shop with a handful of staff to be a business that incorporates two state-of-the-art, purposebuilt workshops manned by nearly 40
highly trained staff, moves around 100 vehicles a week through its doors and has a turnover of $15 million a year.
Those numbers are truly impressive, and Wes and partner and co-owner Helena Willmot, daughter of Allan, have shepherded the business since buying it a decade ago to become an enterprise that is regarded as one of the very best in the repair industry.
For Wes, investing in the buildings, the
Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland, with members of the Board and his executive team as they discuss the Association's future strategy
equipment, and the training of his staff made sense as he and Helena looked to ensure the business was an industry leader that could adapt to the evolution of the motor vehicle, the new materials being used in their construction, and the technology – especially high-voltage electrical and battery systems – that underpins many of the vehicles coming to the market.
“I've been in the industry 28 years . . . and it is such a high-tech trade today,” said Wes. “Here we are working with laser measuring equipment, computer temperature-controlled spray booths, water-based paint, air-fed masks, and we are working in air conditioning.
“Repairing a car is nothing like it
used to be,” he added with a smile.
“Everything is high tech. From the steels that you're working with to the EVs we have to decommission to work on safely. And you go home clean as a whistle! It's a far cry from where it started, that's for sure.”
Wes’ own journey to business owner is a classic example of the journey of someone who knew the industry in which they wanted to work, could see where things could be improved, and had the ambition to be one of its leaders.
“I started when I was 15 years old,” he said. “On the way home on my last day of school I rode straight to a panel shop and asked for a job as a spray painter. They said, ‘Mate, can you start Monday?’
“Back in those days, it was a pretty crude
Wes Jenkins and partner Helena Willmot, co-owners of Willmot Smash Repair Specialists
“REPAIRING A CAR IS NOTHING LIKE IT USED TO BE . . . EVERYTHING IS HIGH TECH. FROM THE STEELS THAT YOU'RE WORKING WITH TO THE EVS WE HAVE TO DECOMMISSION TO WORK ON SAFELY.”
and dusty environment and there was not too much fancy equipment. But we repaired cars, and I loved it . . . From there, I finished my apprenticeship and moved to Brisbane to pursue a motorcross career. I bought myself a little body shop thinking I’d have more time, but it turned out I love business.
“I decided to move back to Cairns and started my career with Willmot Smash Repairs as a contractor. It was here that I really worked out where technology was heading in the industry. I worked here for around 18 years . . . bought it with Helena and we grew from eight staff to nearly 40 staff today and we’re a $15 million turnover business.
“That's not too bad for a young bloke who started out by riding into a shop on his pushbike.”
As with all other sectors within the automotive industry – and indeed most industries – the search for skilled staff and apprentices is a challenge. For some sectors, including vehicle repair, the challenge is not just about numbers but
about perception: many people see it as one that is grimy, tough, dusty and generally unpleasant for much of the time.
Add to that is the difficulty some people have in recognising just what a career in vehicle repair, or any auto industry sector, can mean. Mechanic, panel beater, painter, auto electrician – these words might describe a trade, but they do not describe a career.
The best of the modern vehicle repair sector, exemplified by businesses such as Willmot Smash Repair, are worlds away from the image of a dusty, dirty, workshop, and Wes is keen, for young people especially, to grasp that completing a panel beater or paining trade is the first step on a career that will challenge them; expose them to some truly high-tech equipment and machinery; enable them to work on, repair, and understand the cutting-edge vehicles entering the market; and give them the opportunity not only to earn extremely good money, but pursue business ownership ambitions too.
“What excites me about the industry these days is how professional it has got, how high-tech it is and what we get to work with these days,” said Wes.
“EVs are something special and that's a pretty cool sector in the industry.
Aluminium vehicles, carbon fibre vehicles, high-tech carbon steels - it's really going places, and you can see by the number of shops being built and how professional they have become that there is a bright future for our industry.
“Also cool is the career progression it can provide. You can work your way from being an apprentice all the way up to an operations manager, an estimator, a foreman, a body shop owner.
“And this industry also gives you an awesome hobby. If you're building something cool out there - a street machine or hot rod - you learn so many skills that you can adapt to that hobby.”
For those looking for that challenge, for that career that offers plenty of potential, the paint and panel industry is one that
“IT'S CHALLENGING. IT'S EXCITING. IT'S HIGH TECH. IT'S CLEAN AND IT'S EXTREMELY WELL PAID. SO REACH OUT TO YOUR LOCAL REPAIRER AND HAVE A CHAT. IF YOU TURNED UP AT MY FRONT DOOR, I'D WANT TO TALK TO YOU.”
Wes Jenkins, co-owner of Willmot Smash Repair
Toby Atkinson, dual-trade apprentice at Willmot Smash Repair
deserves a close look, said Wes.
“It's challenging. It's exciting. It's high tech. It's clean and it's extremely wellpaid,” he said. “So reach out to your local repairer, come down and have a chat. If you turned up at my front door, I'd want to talk to you. Not every shop's going to look as shiny as this one, but once you get your foot in the door, the world is your oyster.”
APPRENTICESHIP OPENS DOOR TO CAREER WITH POTENTIAL
Getting his foot in the door is exactly what happened to Toby Atkinson, an 18-year-old apprentice working at Willmots. Toby is, in fact, taking on a dual apprenticeship – both paint and panel repair – and kicked things off back in 2022 when he signed on with Willmots as a school-based panel repair apprentice.
Being a school-based apprentice was, said Toby, a terrific experience, giving him the opportunity to finish school while simultaneously learning a trade and earning some money. Working full time, meanwhile, has allowed him to fully appreciate what the trades have to offer.
“Until I finished year 12, I was at school Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, while Thursday and Friday I was at my apprenticeship. Once I got my Year 12 certificate, I walked straight into a fulltime job,” he said.
“I'm not someone who can just go to
work and go home every day without a bit of fulfillment and, for me, both of the trades are perfect for that. There are limitless opportunities . . . If you want to put in the work, you want to learn, you can do anything you want.
“. . . One of the technologies we have in the shop is electric vehicles and a couple of things we do is depowering and reinitialising them. They are going to be everywhere soon and I'm here now learning how to do it. It's an investment in yourself to learn how to work on electric vehicles because the industry's about to get so much larger . . . and you're going to be right in the centre of it as a panel beater.”
Working at Willmot is, said Toby, pretty special, and while not all shops are going to offer the range of work or access to such cutting-edge facilities, the paint and panel trades offered the chance to be creative and learn skills that would be highly valued.
“Willmots is a very high-tech workshop with super sophisticated machinery and really complex repairs get done here,” said Toby. “. . . The training here is fantastic, the support here is fantastic, and I know that the pathways for a lifelong career are wide open. I'd recommend Paint and panel for anyone who loves cars and has an eye for detail. If you're creative, then it's for you. Just do it!”
AUTO WOMEN SCHOLARSHIPS OFFER PATHWAY TO GROWTH AND ADVANCEMENT
ESTABLISHED IN 2022 by MTA
Queensland, the Auto Women initiative works to provide a supportive environment for women working across the automotive industry and deliver opportunities for them to grow and develop their careers.
Through networking and social events, connections through social media, online Auto Women Connect events, and via an ongoing scholarship program that sees candidates given the opportunity to complete professional development courses - Executive Ready and Leading Edge - with Women & Leadership Australia (WLA), Auto Women has become a powerful resource.
In August, the latest Auto Women Connect event was held, with guest speakers including award-winning Leah Cahill, owner/manager at Northside Smash Repairs, and Leah Davis, financial controller at Cricks Tweed.
Both Leahs are very accomplished women and leaders within the industry and Leah Davis recently completed the Auto Women Executive Ready program –a program that, she said, had proven to be
“THE OVERALL EXPERIENCE IS A MUST DO. I REALLY RECOMMEND THAT EVERYONE JUMP ON BOARD, AND NOT ONLY FOR THE SCHOLARSHIPS BUT FOR THE AUTO WOMEN INITIATIVE IN GENERAL.”
extremely valuable and inspiring, and had bolstered her confidence as she continued to pursue her career ambitions.
“Now that I have completed the course, it is a real head start towards being a dealer principal, which is my next goal,” said Leah. “I am currently the financial controller but my next step and my vision . . . is to be the dealer principal. This course has been amazing to give me the confidence to do that.”
The course itself, Leah added, runs for seven months, is online, and made up of 90 minute sessions every fortnight and has three full-day sessions to be completed as well.
“They are super interactive,” Leah said
vent, have a laugh, and talk about how it's affected us in our workplace.
And if we need help, we just ask each other. It's been amazing.”
of the sessions. “There were about 30 other ladies doing the course with me and you get into breakout rooms, have discussions and, over the course, you get divided into coaching groups. I have a group of three, and it's just amazing. We catch up between the sessions . . . and we learn about each other, coach each other, and talk about what we're learning.
“I have finished the course, but I made such a great connection with these girls that we continue monthly catch ups, just to see where we're at and how we're going, have a
Beyond the Executive Ready course itself, Leah said that the Auto Women initiative had provided other valuable avenues for growth too, including connecting with women representing other areas and sectors of the industry.
“It's just so good,” she said. “There are so many other like-minded people like me, and then others as well, coming from different aspects, that I can learn from. There are ladies that are apprentice mechanics - that is different from my world so it's amazing to talk to them.
“They have connect sessions where you can join up with the network of ladies and chat and where they have guest speakers. And we had a social last month that we went to and it was just so nice to meet all the other people and just chat.
“The overall experience is a must do.
I really recommend that everyone jump on board, and not only for the scholarships but for the auto women initiative in general. It's just so good.”
VIDEO: LEAH'S JOURNEY THROUGH THE EXECUTIVE READY PROGRAM | AUTO WOMEN SCHOLARSHIPS
Leah Davis, financial controller at Cricks Tweed
AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLERS GATHER ON THE GOLD COAST FOR APRAA CONFERENCE
AUSTRALIA’S AUTOMOTIVE
RECYCLING industry gathered on the Gold Coast in August for a twoday conference held under the theme of ‘Driving Innovation: The Road to Tomorrow.’
The conference, hosted by the Auto Parts Recyclers Association of Australia (APRAA) and the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), in collaboration with Auto PARTnered Solutions (APS), enabled attendees to gather insights on a range of issues affecting the sector. Sessions included those focusing on trends and building strategic alliances, working with and selling on ebay, and ways to increase sales and profits, while panel discussions and Q&A sessions tackled subjects such as inter-trading, marketing, training, and digital transformation.
Welcoming addresses were given by Kellie Dewar, Deputy CEO of MTA Queensland, and Chris Daglis of Auto PARTnered Solutions, and of particular interest during the conference was the release of a new study from the MTAA
“THE APRAA CONFERENCE WAS A FANTASTIC EXPERIENCE, DELIVERING TWO DAYS PACKED WITH INFORMATIVE SESSIONS COVERING EVERYTHING THAT AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLERS NEED TO CONSIDER, AS WELL AS OFFERING THOSE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES,”
and Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) that focused on end-oflive vehicles and options to deal with them. You can read more on that report on pages 22 & 23.
Attendees were given insights into the work of state motor trade associations as well as the national association during a CEO Panel Discussion held on the afternoon of the first day of the conference. That panel included Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland; Geoff Gwilym of the VACC; and Matt Hobbs from the MTAA.
Chris Daglis, Ben Chesterfield and Sarfraz Ali Kyani
The MTA Queensland team at the conference
MTA Queensland was involved in another session on Day Two, during a discussion and presentation on Sustainable Auto Recycling. Sarfraz Ali Kyani, a researcher in automotive recycling who was supported through the completion of his PhD into the
technology enables the recycling of almost all elements of a motor vehicle, including the traditionally difficult features such as bumper bars.
While the conference delivered on its promise to provide invaluable and informative sessions and a broad range of recycling industry-related topics, there was also the chance for attendees to do a bit of networking. Organisers laid on a welcome cocktail party to kick off the conference and there was also a gala dinner, plus other occasions, that enabled attendees to meet and network with others.
subject by MTA Queensland, was joined by Ben Chesterfield of Car Craft to discuss the challenges and opportunities for sustainable automotive recycling. There was a pretty robust discussion with attendees around the relationship between automotive recyclers, vehicle repairers, and insurers, while Sarfraz also highlighted the opportunities for recyclers to consider new avenues of income as
“The APRAA Conference was a fantastic experience, delivering two days packed with informative sessions covering everything that automotive recyclers need to consider, as well as offering those networking opportunities,” said Kellie Dewar from MTA Queensland.
“Attendees had the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, explore the latest innovations, and discuss sustainable practices that are shaping the future of automotive recycling. The announcement of the end-of-life vehicle report and study from the MTAA and FCAI at the conference shows how important the event is and how vital the recycling sector is to the automotive industry as a whole as we continue to move toward a more sustainable future.”
Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland and Kellie Dewar, Deputy CEO of MTA Queensland
conference Matt Hobbs (MTAA), Rod Camm (MTA Queensland) & Geoff Gwilym (VACC)
MTAA UNVEILS PLAN TO PROGRESS END-OF-LIFE VEHICLE MANAGEMENT
THE APRAA CONFERENCE was the venue for the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) to release a comprehensive study regarding end-of-life vehicles.
Undertaken by the MTAA in partnership with the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), The Outlook for End-ofLife Vehicles in Australia report draws on research delivered under a $1 million grant received from the Australian Government’s Project Stewardship Innovation Fund. One of the largest motor vehicle studies of its type undertaken in Australia, the research identified options to enhance end-of-life vehicle (ELV) material recovery rates, avoid inter-state leakage of end-of-life vehicles and, importantly, reduce vehicle waste destined for landfill.
The report says that approximately 850,000 motor vehicles reach the end of
“THIS IS A PIVOTAL MOMENT FOR US TO ENHANCE RECOVERY EFFORTS AND REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AS THE INDUSTRY MOVES TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE."
their life each year in Australia, generating around 1.36 million tonnes of waste. Currently, the industry recovers about 70 per cent of this waste, leaving a substantial amount destined for landfill. Australia's automotive manufacturers and retailers are committed to improving these statistics and enhancing end-of-life vehicle material recovery and reducing landfill waste.
The study highlights several challenges facing the industry, including a fragmented
OUTLOOK FOR END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES IN AUSTRALIA
recycling sector, a diverse vehicle fleet, and insufficient processing options for non-metal materials. The absence of a domestic vehicle manufacturing base further complicates material reuse efforts. While international schemes offer insights, no single global model fits Australia’s unique context without significant adaptation.
The FCAI and MTAA say they will work together to explore a co-regulatory product stewardship scheme that incorporates successful elements from global models and adapts them to Australia’s needs. This would include investigating initiatives such as:
• Authorised collection and treatment facilities – Establishing standardised facilities with rigorous operating and environmental standards
• Certificates of Destruction (COD)
– Implementing CODs to enhance vehicle tracking and support higher recovery standards
• National consistency – Developing a nationally consistent approach to vehicle recycling that aligns with best practices while addressing local challenges
To advance this initiative, the FCAI and MTAA will collaborate with industry and government to address key issues, including standardisation, material recovery targets, funding models and a stewardship organisation.
"Our research reveals the necessity of modernising Australia’s vehicle dismantling and recycling processes,” said Matt Hobbs, CEO, MTAA. “The proposed stewardship scheme will not only streamline operations across the industry but also address the unique challenges we face.
“This is a pivotal moment for us to enhance recovery efforts and reduce environmental impact as the industry moves towards a more sustainable future."
RIGHTS & RISKS FOR COLLISION REPAIRERS CLARIFIED IN NEW GUIDE SERIES
MTA QUEENSLAND
HAS released its latest industry guide – Using Non-Genuine Parts: Legal Rights & Risks for Collision Repairers.
This will be the first in a series of guides to be released that will be aimed at empowering repairers to navigate the complex landscape of insurance demands and clarify repairers’ legal rights against unreasonable or prohibited insurer requests, and it arrives after the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA) and the Australian Motor Body Repairers Association (AMBRA) joined forces with HWLE Lawyers to address this critical issue facing collision repair businesses across the country.
reviewing agreements and Product Disclosure Statements, assessing safety and quality risks, and considering legal and financial implications.
3. Communication Strategies: The guide emphasises the importance of clear communication with insurers and customers, including obtaining informed consent and proper documentation
Industry Standards: It reinforces the commitment to maintaining high ethical standards in the collision repair industry and the importance of upholding manufacturer specifications.
This first guide will outline legal rights and risks for collision repairers using non-genuine parts and key highlights of the Guide include:
1. Legal Rights and Risks: The guide outlines the legal rights and potential risks for collision repairers when using non-genuine parts, providing a comprehensive framework for decision-making.
2. Step-by-Step Approach: Repairers are advised to follow a structured process, including
5. Dispute Resolution: Information on how to handle disputes with insurers, including reference to the Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct.
“This guide is a crucial resource for collision repairers facing pressure from insurers to use non-genuine parts,” said Matt Hobbs, MTAA CEO. “We aim to empower repairers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions that protect their businesses, and their customers, and maintain the highest standards of vehicle safety and performance.”
MTA QUEENSLAND SECURES WIN FOR MOTOR DEALERS ON THREE-MONTH REGISTRATION TERMS
AFTER SEVERAL YEARS of advocacy and a parliamentary e-petition in 2020, MTA Queensland has gained a major win for its motor dealer members with the Department of Transport and Main Roads deciding to introduce three-month registration terms for motor vehicle dealers.
The reason for the change, the Government said, is that it now recognises that some motor dealers cannot access direct debit for vehicle registration and that motor dealers also have a need for flexibility due to the varied nature of the industry with high and low sales periods.
Rod Camm, CEO of MTA Queensland, said the new terms are expected to bring substantial advantages to motor dealers, offering greater flexibility and alleviating financial strain for small businesses, linked to extended registration periods.
“This has been a long-standing issue for our members, and we are pleased to see the Department acting on our advice. By offering a shorter registration term, dealers can better align their expenses with their sales cycles, potentially leading to increased profitability and sustainability within the
“BY OFFERING A SHORTER REGISTRATION TERM, DEALERS CAN BETTER ALIGN THEIR EXPENSES WITH THEIR SALES CYCLES, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO INCREASED PROFITABILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY WITHIN THE INDUSTRY.”
industry,” said Rod. “MTA Queensland remains committed to working closely with government bodies and industry stakeholders to advocate for continued improvements and innovations that promote a thriving automotive sector in Queensland.”
DRIVING TO SUCCEED: QUEENSLAND’S AUTO INDUSTRY BATTLES IT OUT ON THE GOLF COURSE
ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 6, 72 of the Queensland Automotive Industry’s most enthusiastic golfers rolled into Virginia Golf Club in Brisbane to take part in the 74th Motor Trades Golf Day.
Those 72 players made up 18 teams and swung into action early on a fantastic morning to play for the Motor Trades Golf trophy, some tasty prizes and, most importantly, bragging rights for the next 12 months.
Played under Ambrose rules - in which the location of the single best shot from a team is then used by all team members for their subsequent shot - the standard of play varied, as it does every year, from the casual player happy to hit (or nearly hit) a ball, to the near semi-pro.
The result saw the team from Bridgestone Albany Creek – Tom Sparks, Paul Graham, Peter Kennedy and Josh Graham – walk away with victory with a score of 56. That’s a top result for the team that were runners-up in 2023.
The team from CoolDrive Auto Parts –
72 PLAYERS MADE UP 18 TEAMS AND SWUNG INTO ACTION EARLY ON A FANTASTIC MORNING TO PLAY FOR THE MOTOR TRADES GOLF DAY TROPHY, SOME TASTY PRIZES AND, MOST IMPORTANTLY, BRAGGING RIGHTS FOR THE NEXT 12 MONTHS.
Steve Kennedy, Chris Nicol, Michael Holt and Scott Brereton – took second place with a score of 57.
While claiming overall victory was the main aim for all, there were other competitions that ran throughout the day in which players could grasp some individual glory.
Dan Blinkhorn from East Coast Customs took out the Nearest the Pin competition; Rob Pilgrim from Capricorn Society came up trumps in the Straightest Drive
contest; and Riki Pawai from East Coast Customs proved unstoppable in the battle to record the day’s Longest Drive.
MTA Queensland’s charity partner – Youngcare – which works to ensure young people with physical disabilities can live a life of choice, independence, and dignity – was also out on the course raising money and hosting a fun game of ‘Hit a marshmallow as far as possible.’ MTA Queensland’s Kym Woodley showed the skills to win that particular contest.
While there is a competitive edge to the Motor Trades Golf Day, the event is much more than about who gets to win the big trophy. It is also about getting members of the automotive industry out of the workshop, the showroom, the paint room, the office, and bringing them together to have some good food, plenty of drinks and have some fun.
That being said, the next Motor Trades Golf Day, to be held around the same time
THE
RESULT SAW THE TEAM FROM BRIDGESTONE ALBANY CREEK – TOM SPARKS, PAUL GRAHAM, PETER KENNEDY AND JOSH GRAHAM – WALK AWAY WITH VICTORY WITH A SCORE OF 56.
in 2025, will be the 75th and will be a bigger event as we celebrate that milestone.
So, to members of Queensland’s auto industry who fancy themselves pretty handy with a golf club, start practising and preparing for what will be an outstandingly fun day next year.
MTA Queensland would like to thank our event sponsors for their support:
• Hole Sponsors: BUSY At Work, Capricorn, and Youngcare
• Prize Sponsors: CoolDrive Auto Parts, Virginia Golf Club, and Deep Grey.
DATA REVEALS EV UPTAKE ACROSS THE STATE AS QUEENSLAND GOV’T CLOSES ZERO EMISSION VEHICLE REBATE SCHEME
QUEENSLAND’S $45 MILLION
Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV)
Rebate Scheme, announced in 2022 and designed to assist EV uptake in the state by offering rebates for eligible individuals to buy EVs, has now closed. The scheme, which originally offered $3000 on the purchase of EVs with a price threshold of $58,000 and had increased in 2023 to $6000 on a $68,000 price threshold, officially ended on September 3.
Initially planned to run for three years, the scheme has closed in just over two, with the funds exhausted and with more than 10,000 Queensland individuals and businesses having benefitted from it. In a statement regarding the closing of the scheme, the Government notes that ‘the pace of change in the EV market has seen significant decreases in the price of new cars with the price of popular models dropping from between as much as 10- 30 per cent since the end of 2023.’
It also claims the rebate scheme’s success in helping ‘to increase EV uptake in Queensland, with EV car registrations rising fourfold since the start of the scheme, to over 46,000 as of 31 July 2024. EV cars now make up 1 per cent of the total car fleet in Queensland, up from only 0.2 per cent two years ago.’
“The success of the scheme
demonstrates Queensland Government’s commitment towards encouraging cleaner, greener transport modes and supporting the transition to EVs, while assisting Queenslanders with cost-of-living pressures by reducing the upfront costs of purchasing a new eligible EV,” said the Honourable Bart Mellish, Minister for Transport and Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services.
Along with the news of the ending of the rebate scheme, the Queensland Government released some data regarding how the EV sector has grown across the state, including numbers of batteryelectric and hybrid vehicles, where they are most popular, where they can be publicly charged, and the government’s continuing work on supporting the community’s transition to EVs.
There are, the government says, now more than 46,200 all-electric vehicles registered across the state as at July 2024 – well up on the 12,928 in September 2022. In addition, Queensland has more than 6400 plug-in hybrid vehicles, up from 3870 at June 2023.
According to the data, and probably to no great surprise, most EVs – numbering 1369 - have been registered in the 4000 postcode of inner Brisbane. It’s followed by: • 4069 (Kenmore, Chapel Hill, Brookfield, 912);
THERE ARE, THE GOVERNMENT SAYS, NOW MORE THAN 46,200 ALL-ELECTRIC VEHICLES REGISTERED ACROSS THE
STATE AS AT JULY 2024 – WELL UP ON THE 12,928 IN SEPTEMBER 2022.
• 4301 (Redbank, Collingwood Park, 814);
• 4300 (Goodna, Springfield, Springfield Lakes, 778);
• 4152 (Camp Hill, Carina, Carindale, 777);
• 4212 (Helensvale, Hope Island, Sanctuary Cove, 711);
• 4217 (Benowa, Bundall, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise, 700);
• 4209 (Coomera, Pimpama, Upper Coomera, 680);
• 4006 (Bowen Hills, Fortitude Valley, Newstead, 610),and;
• 4101 (Highgate Hill, South Brisbane, West End, 602).
Postcodes outside South East Queensland with the most EVs include:
• 4350 (Toowoomba, 545);
• 4870 (Cairns, 395);
• 4670 (Bundaberg, 208);
• 4655 (Hervey Bay, 203) and;
• 4740 (Mackay, 190).
The government says the Metropolitan area accounts for more than 27,000 of all
battery EV registrations in the state. The area includes Brisbane, Ipswich through to Lockyer Valley, Redlands and Logan.
The South Coast region, which takes in Gold Coast and Scenic Rim, is next with more than 7300 registrations, followed by the North Coast (Sunshine Coast from Moreton Bay) with 7000.
Registration numbers in other locations include:
• 970 Far North (Cardwell to Cape York);
• 840 North (Ingham, Townsville, Charters Towers);
• 830 Darling Downs and South West (Toowoomba, Gatton, Chinchilla, Warwick, Stanthorpe, Goondiwindi, St George, Charleville, Cunnamulla);
• 710 Wide Bay Burnett (Gympie, Hervey Bay, Maryborough and Kingaroy);
• 510 Central and West Queensland (Gladstone, Rockhampton, Emerald, Agnes Water, Yeppoon, Longreach, Barcaldine);
• 290 Mackay and Whitsundays; and;
• 9 North West (Hughenden, Mount Isa, Cloncurry).
On the issue of charging, the government highlights the Queensland Electric Super Highway (QESH) – the 5,386km route that stretches from Coolangatta in the south to Port Douglas in the north, extends inland as far west as Mount Isa, Longreach,
Charleville and Cunnamulla, and also links inland communities including Emerald, Roma, Miles, St George and Goondiwindi.
The Super Highway and Co-Fund scheme (which sees the government work with private entities to develop charging infrastructure) will, the government says, see public fast-chargers at convenient locations near cafes, restaurants and shops every 150km on major highways.
In addition, around 2500 chargers are expected to be installed at government buildings by 2026, up to 500 of which will be available for public use at locations such as hospitals, theatres and convention centres. Park ’n’ Plug EV chargers will also be trialled at commuter carparks at Eight Mile Plains bus station and Coomera train station in South East Queensland.
The government says that since the first Queensland Electric Super Highway (QESH) site opened in 2017 there have been more than 201,000 charging sessions (at 30 April 2024).
While the ZEV rebate scheme is now over, the Queensland Government is looking at supporting EV uptake in other ways. It says it is investing $42 million to integrate ZEVs through the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan: $30 million has been allocated for ZEV-ready Government buildings and $12
WHILE THE ZEV REBATE SCHEME IS NOW OVER, THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT IS LOOKING AT SUPPORTING EV UPTAKE IN OTHER WAYS.
million for a public charging program. Meanwhile, Queensland’s Zero Emissions Vehicle Strategy includes the following targets:
• 50% of new passenger vehicle sales to be zero emission by 2030, moving to 100% by 2036;
• 100% of eligible Queensland Government fleet passenger vehicles to be zero emission by 2026;
• every new TransLink funded bus added to the fleet to be a zero-emission bus from 2025 in South East Queensland and from 2025-2030 across regional Queensland.
Also, the Queensland Government’s fleet manager QFleet will replace all eligible government passenger vehicles with electric vehicles by 2026. Once the QFleet EV vehicles reach the end of their leases, they are sold via public auction – a move that will, the government says, help to create a viable second-hand market for EVs.
Auto innovation news
BMW TEST HUMANOID ROBOTS AT U.S. PLANT
THE USE OF humanoid robots may seem like something one might see only in science fiction, but technology can move at quite a clip and last month the BMW Group revealed it is exploring the use of humanoid robots in production for the first time.
Together with Figure – a Californiabased robotics company – the BMW Group is evaluating how such robots can be used safely in vehicle production.
During a trial run lasting several weeks at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in the U.S., the company says the latest humanoid robot from Figure – called the Figure 02 – successfully inserted sheet metal parts into specific fixtures which were then assembled as part of a chassis.
According to Figure, the combination of two-legged mobility and advanced dexterity means that the Figure 02 is ideally suited for use in areas with physically demanding, unsafe, or repetitive processes. The company says the robot is capable of fully autonomous execution of human-like and two-handed tasks requiring varied and dynamic manipulation, complex grasping, and coordination of both hands in unison.
“The developments in the field of
“THE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE FIELD OF ROBOTICS ARE VERY PROMISING. WITH AN EARLY TEST OPERATION, WE ARE NOW DETERMINING POSSIBLE APPLICATIONS FOR HUMANOID ROBOTS IN PRODUCTION.”
robotics are very promising. With an early test operation, we are now determining possible applications for humanoid robots in production. We want to accompany
VIDEO: HUMANOID FIGURE 02 ROBOTS TESTED AT BMW GROUP PLANT SPARTANBURG
this technology from development to industrialisation,” said Milan Nedeljkovi, Member of the Board of Management for Production at BMW AG, in a media release.
During the trial, the BMW Group says it gained valuable knowledge of what requirements must be met in order to be able to integrate so-called multi-purpose robots in an existing production system. The company said it will continue to collaborate with Figure on future applications in production and development of the robots, and work with Figure for data capturing and training capabilities for the Figure 02 robots.
GPC ASIA PACIFIC ACQUIRES APG
GENUINE PARTS COMPANY (GPC) has announced it has acquired Australian automotive collision repair parts company Auto Parts Group (APG), a leading independent supplier of genuine, certified and aftermarket automotive collision repair parts.
GPC made the acquisition via its Australia-based subsidiary GPC Asia Pacific. Melbourne-based GPC Asia Pacific will now operate APG as a dedicated Collision Repair division alongside its existing automotive parts businesses, which include Repco, NAPA, Rare Spares, Sparesbox, and AMX Super Stores.
The deal sees GPC Asia Pacific acquire 100 percent ownership of APG from the company’s founder, Stephen Campbell.
GPC Asia Pacific’s acquisition took effect on 2 September 2024.
APG currently operates five distribution centres across Australia. At present, they supply more than 47,000 different product lines to around 3,500 collision repairers.
GPC said in a media release that APG’s operations will continue unchanged under GPC’s ownership and will now enjoy the advantages of GPC Asia Pacific’s investment strength and global supply chain.
Humanoid robot, the Figure 02
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
NISSAN TRIAL COOLPAINT TECHNOLOGY
NISSAN HAS BEEN trialling an automotive paint aimed at helping lower a vehicle's ambient cabin temperature in summer and reduce the energy usage of the air-conditioning system.
Developed in partnership with Radi-Cool, a specialist in radiative cooling products, the paint could be very useful during Australian summer months, especially as electric vehicles (EV) become more common and owners work to squeeze every bit of life and kilometre of range from their batteries. After all, a cooler cabin requires less air-conditioning run-time to reach a comfortable temperature and helps reduce the effort required of an engine, or the draw on a battery.
Nissan says the new paint ‘incorporates metamaterial, synthetic composite materials with structures that exhibit properties not usually found in nature.’
The cool paint features two microstructure particles that react to light, reflecting and counteracting sunlight and the sun’s rays. Combined, the particles reduce the transfer of heat into surfaces such as the roof, hood, doors and panels.
A feasibility trial was begun in November 2023 at Tokyo International Air Terminal at Haneda, applying the paint to a service vehicle. Although still in the testing phase, Nissan says the results have been impressive. Parked side-by-side under the sun, a vehicle treated in Nissan's cool paint showed up to a 12-degree Celsius reduction in exterior surface temperatures and up to 5-degree Celsius cooler interior, compared to a vehicle featuring traditional automotive paint.
Nissan says that while radiant cooling
paint isn't new, it is typically used for buildings and structures and is often very thick, requiring application by a paint roller. Devoid of any clear topcoat, it can leave a chalky residue when touched.
The aim, then, is to develop a cooling paint that incorporates a clear topcoat, can be applied via a spray gun, and meets rigorous quality standards. Nissan says it has tested over 100 samples and has reached a point where it is currently evaluating a thickness of 120 microns. Development will continue as the company looks to explore thinner options that deliver the same level of cooling performance.
VIDEO: NISSAN COOL PAINT TECHNOLOGY
Auto innovation news
BMW GROUP TRIALS WIND ENERGY SYSTEM IN UK
BMW GROUP IN the UK has installed a “motionless” wind energy system at its MINI manufacturing plant in Oxford. The system, from Aeromine Technologies, harnesses wind power to produce clean energy without visible moving parts. The Oxford plant will serve as a testbed for the technology, assessing its potential for energy efficiencies across BMW Group sites globally, as well as commercial buildings in the UK.
The wind energy unit, which is installed on the edge of a building, is oriented towards the prevailing wind and features wing-like vertical airfoils that create a vacuum effect, drawing air behind an internal propeller to generate clean electricity. Unlike traditional wind
turbines, Aeromine says its bladeless design minimises noise and vibrations, ensuring no disturbance to buildings or the surrounding environment and with minimal impact on birds. Additionally, the unit is constructed from durable, recyclable materials. This energy project is part of the BMW Startup Garage, a business unit dedicated to supporting early-stage startups working on cutting-edge technologies. It focuses on testing a functional product, at least in the form of a prototype, during a pilot project and commissioning the startup as a supplier at an early stage. Rather than acting as an investor through venture capital, the BMW Startup Garage is taking on the role of a customer, a “venture client.”
VW WORKING ON MATERIAL MADE FROM INDUSTRIAL HEMP FOR FUTURE CAR INTERIORS
VOLKSWAGEN HAS ENTERED into a cooperation with the German start-up Revoltech GmbH to research and develop sustainable materials based on industrial hemp. Together with Revoltech, VW said its pre-development team is working on a material as a substitute for leather. The material, made from industrial hemp cultivated for the food industry, is an allnatural, 100 per cent biological single-layer surface material called LOVRTM (Leather-free, Oil-free, Vegan and
Residue-based) that is being developed specifically with the automotive industry in mind.
The hemp fibres and a fully bio-based adhesive are combined and processed to become a surface material. The material is fully recyclable or compostable once it has reached the end of its service life and it is, said VW, produced from residues of the hemp industry that have no further use. Possible use in vehicle projects from 2028 is envisaged.
IT’S THAT TIME of year again when the eyes of many car enthusiasts turn to the picturesque region of California known as the Monterey Peninsula. It’s here each year that many car companies – particularly those who create luxury and performance models – appear to take part in one of the many events that
make up Monterey Car Week and take the opportunity to unwrap some of their newest creations, be they vehicles on the cusp of production or some truly wonderful concepts.
Here are just a few of the new vehicles unwrapped at this year’s Monterey Car Week. And they are beauties.
PININFARINA B95 GOTHAM
AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA IS well known for its beautifully stylish cars, and perhaps it is no surprise to see the company behind the wonderful Battista electric hypercar take its sleek and futuristic talents and pair them with film company Warner Bros. and superhero folklore to create a vehicle inspired by the comic book world of Batman.
The result of this collaboration is the B95 Gotham – an open-top, two-seat one-off creation ‘inspired by the luxury lifestyle of billionaire Bruce Wayne’ (aka Batman).
The B95 Gotham is, apparently, slated to be one of four unique cars inspired by the Bruce Wayne/Batman, with this model reflecting, according to Pininfarina, ‘Bruce Wayne’s passion for cutting-edge innovation and sustainable technology, as well as his elegant and refined taste . . .’.
Inside, that B95 Gotham is upholstered in tan leather, and it features a bespoke Wayne Enterprises-inspired HMI (Human Machine Interface) display with a virtual assistant voice inspired by Alfred Pennyworth, the Wayne family’s butler.
The bodywork is finished in Argento Vittoria gloss black paint, with wheels featuring a matt black inner and gloss black outer ring. There are two electronically adjustable aero screens to deflect air over the open cabin.
The car is completed with a bespoke driver’s side door plate, which it laserengraved with the words, ‘All men have limits. I ignore mine.’
As with all four of the Bruce Wayneinspired editions, the B95 Gotham sits on the quad-motor Battista set-up which generates 1900hp (1415kW), powering the car from 0-100km/h in less than two seconds.
VIDEO: BATTISTA AND B95 DARK KNIGHT AND GOTHAM: INSPIRED BY WAYNE ENTERPRISES
LAMBORGHINI TEMERARIO
HYBRID HYPERCAR
LAMBORGHINI TOOK THE wraps off its newest creation at Monterey – a twinturbo V8 hybrid-powered hypercar called the Temerario that will be the successor to the brand’s iconic Huracan model.
The Temerario’s hybrid powertrain combines an entirely new 4-litre twinturbo V8 engine – capable of reaching 10,000rpm – with three electric motors. There’s an electric motor integrated between the V8 engine and the 8-speed automatic gearbox working as a ‘torque gap filler’, while propulsion is supported
by two electric motors on the front axle. Those two electric motors offer a total peak output of 220kW and up to 2150Nm of torque and drive the front axle when required to achieve all-wheel drive.
Total power output is 677kW and the Temerario’s performance is suitably stellar. Top speed is 343km/h with the 0 to 100 km/h sprint completed in 2.7 seconds.
The Temerario’s battery has a capacity of 3.8kWh and is located in the central tunnel. When the charge drops down to zero it can be recharged using AC up to 7kW and completely recharges in just 30 minutes. It can also be recharged under regenerative braking from the front wheels or directly from the V8 engine.
Along with the new powertrain, the Temerario has a new aluminium chassis. Lamborghini says this chassis, thanks to the use of a cutting-edge high-strength, ultra-light alloy, significantly increases torsional rigidity and contributes to excellent driving dynamics. It sits on 20-
inch Bridgestone Potenza Sport tyres up front and 21-inch Potenza Sports at the rear. Carbon Ceramic brakes deliver the stopping power with 10-piston calipers at the front and four-piston calipers at the rear.
As is the norm with cars from Lamborghini, the Temerario has styling and design that makes it look as though it could reach warp speed, while the interior, using a mix of top-quality materials, follows a ‘feel like a pilot’ philosophy and includes a newly developed steering wheel which allows the driver to control all main driving functions including the selection of driving modes.
There’s an 8.4-inch display mounted on the centre console while the driver receives information on the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Data for the front passenger is shown simultaneously on a 9.1-inch screen in front of them.
The Temerario is launched with two new dedicated colours - Blu Marinus (blue) and Verde Mercurius (green). Over 400 body colours and special liveries will be available. It will also be available with the ‘Alleggerita’ (lightweight) package for customers more oriented towards track driving.
The Temerario is another stop along the electrification journey for Lamborghini and follows the Revuelto and Urus SE SUV into the brand’s hybrid line-up.
VIDEO: LAMBORGHINI TEMERARIO: YOU CAN'T HIDE WHO YOU ARE
HENNESSEY VENOM F5 STEALTH
HENNESSEY SPECIAL VEHICLES, the Texas-based hypercar maker, has made a name for itself by producing some truly mind-bogglingly powerful machines.
At Monterey this year, the company debuted the ‘Stealth Series’ – limited-edition versions of its Venom 1355kW, F5 hypercar.
Just three models – based on the trackfocused ‘Revolution’ variant - are to be built of the Stealth Series. All have been sold and there are plenty of unique and personalised touches available to the customer.
Hennessey says each model requires around 2,350 man-hours to create the carbon fibre body and chassis, with a further 650 to 750 man-hours to complete each paint treatment. Craftsmen hand lay the cosmetic carbon fiber, hand-paint every exterior panel, upholster every piece of
the dash, seats, and doors, embroider the ‘Hennessey’ script, and include personalised ‘easter eggs’ – unique to each customer.
The Stealth Series, like all Venom F5 models, is powered by a twinturbocharged, 6.6-litre V8 ‘Fury’ engine.
Engineered to exceed 480km/h, the F5 line-up includes Coupe and Roadster body styles – each available in track-focused ‘Revolution’ form.
VIDEO: HENNESSEY VENOM F5 STEALTH SERIES
ACURA PERFORMANCE EV CONCEPT
ACURA – THE LUXURY and performance division of Honda – debuted the Acura Performance EV Concept at Monterey, previewing the brand’s next generation all-electric model.
The performance model based on this Concept is scheduled to go into production in late 2025 and will be the first model engineered on a new Hondadeveloped EV platform.
The Acura Performance EV Concept showcases the performance brand’s vision for its all-electric vehicles, with a vented hood that stretches forward from the A-pillars and prominent side vents carved into its sculpted side surfaces. The aggressive front end draws inspiration, the company says, from the form and function of hydrofoil superyachts.
The athletic stance and proportion of the Concept is paired with a long wheelbase, short overhangs and muscular wheel arches covering 23-inch wheels wrapped in 295/35R23 performance tyres. The Concept features drilled high-performance brakes with paint-matched Moonlit White
four-piston calipers. There’s neon-green Acura scripting on each brake caliper. No word as yet on the powertrain, but given the brand - and expectations around the brand - one can assume a production version will be suitably potent.
VIDEO: ACURA PERFORMANCE EV CONCEPT.
PORSCHE 911 TURBO 50 YEARS
PORSCHE IS MARKING the 50th anniversary of the 911 Turbo this year, and the company commemorated the landmark at Monterey by unveiling an exclusive special edition of the sports car icon.
The ‘911 Turbo 50 Years’ is based on the current 2025 911 Turbo S and combines performance and luxurious materials with exclusive styling elements, including interior and exterior elements that adopt design touches from historic 911 Turbo models. An optional Heritage Design Package enriches that look further.
Porsche is limiting the 911 Turbo 50 Years to 1,974 units globally, paying tribute to the year the 911 Turbo was first shown.
The new anniversary model is adorned with Turbonite - a colour exclusive to Porsche Turbo models. The inlays in the rear decklid, the fuel cap and the Porsche crest are also painted in Turbonite. The special shade is also used as a contrast colour and in the ‘turbo 50’ model designation.
Paying tribute to historic Turbo models, the rear wing, lower rear fascia, exterior mirror base and air intake grilles are painted in Anthracite Grey. A badge on the rear decklid grille shows a turbocharger icon and the years ‘1974-2024’.
The interior of the 911 Turbo 50 Years also pays tribute to historic Turbo models.
The seat centres and inner door panels are upholstered in ‘MacKenzie’ tartan. The door sill guards in brushed aluminium feature an illuminated ‘turbo 50’ model designation, which is also stitched into the headrests of the standard Adaptive Sport Seats Plus. Above the glove compartment, an anniversary plaque made of aluminium is mounted, showing ‘turbo 50’ and the individual limited number of each model. The A-pillars, sun visors and roof liner are upholstered in perforated Race-Tex. The dashboard features a Porsche Design
clock in a specific ‘turbo 50’ design.
The optionally available Heritage Design Package ‘50 Years Turbo’ includes a number of additional exclusive design and equipment features inspired by 911 Turbo models of the 1970s.
Based as it is on the current 2025 911 Turbo S, the 50th anniversary model has a twin-turbo, 3.7-litre boxer engine producing 477kW and 800Nm. An 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK), the Porsche Traction Management (PTM)
Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) are standard equipment.
Additional standard equipment beyond the regular 911 Turbo S includes a sport exhaust system with black tailpipes, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) sport suspension with a 10mm lower ride height, a front-axle lift system, tinted LED Matrix design headlights with Dynamic Light System Plus and black brake calipers.
The limited-production anniversary model 911 Turbo 50 Years has an MSRP in
MASERATI GT2 STRADALE
MASERATI CHOSE MONTEREY
Car Week to unveil its latest sports car, the GT2 Stradale.
A sportscar riff on the beautiful MC20 supercar that Maserati launched in 2020, as well as its GT2 race car, the GT2 Stradale straddles both sectors and is, the company says, ‘a road-legal track car that combines the best of the MC20 and GT2’.
That means its Nettuno engine – which also is at the heart of the MC20 – has been tweaked to deliver more power and performance. The 3-litre twin-turbo V6 now pumps out 471kW and 720Nm delivering a top speed of 324km/h and driving the rear-wheel driver GT2 Stradale from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds.
Performance is enhanced thanks to the GT2 Stradale inheriting some of the aerodynamics and design from its trackracing sibling, including a revamped front, a revised carbon-fibre spoiler with increased surface area, and a wing with a boomerang design and built-in endplates. At the rear, a large extractor is there to facilitate the extraction of air from the underbody and generate downforce. There are plenty
of other tweaks too, including a weight reduction of some 19kg over the MC20.
The interior has been given a workover too, with the cabin given a more racing car-like treatment over the MC20. All the interiors are upholstered in anti-glare Alcantara with contrasting blue stitching, whereas the carbon-fibre monocoque has been left exposed.
The GT2 Stradale has the latest generation Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) infotainment system which utilises two screens - a 10.25-inch fully digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch central display for infotainment.
A drive mode digital selector is prominent on the centre tunnel, enbling the driver to easily select one of the GT2 Stradale’s drive modes.
VIDEO: MASERATI GT2 STRADALE. RACING IS LIFE
MERCEDES-MAYBACH SL MONOGRAM SERIES
THE NAME MERCEDES-BENZ likely makes you think of luxurious, beautifully appointed, tastefully styled cars that grace the driveways of Fortune 500 CEOs, major celebrities and members of royal families from across the globe. Stick the word ‘Maybach’ in there and things get turned up a notch with the Mercedes-Maybach brand arguably occupying the same ultra-luxury, rarified air as Rolls-Royce and Bentley.
At Monterey, Mercedes-Maybach unveiled its first two-seater – the SL 680 Monogram Series. Taking the AMG SL and spicing things up makes for a powerful sports car as well as something luxurious in which to linger.
Power comes from a 430kW, 4-litre, bi-turbo engine paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive ensures there’s plenty of traction available. There’s rear axle steering too.
A couple of two-tone paint finishes are available for the first models off the production line – with the Red Ambience variant getting Obsidian Black Metallic over Garnet Red Metallic, while a White Ambience version sees Obsidian Black Metallic contrast with Moonlight White Magno. The interior features sustainably tanned, Crystal White Exclusive Nappa
leather and silver chrome accents.
There are plenty of Maybach-specific touches – including the Obsidian Black Metallic hood being available with the Maybach pattern incorporated in Graphite Grey, and exclusive 21-inch Maybach forged wheels in a 5-hole Monoblock or multi-spoke design.
The rear of the vehicle sees taillights with the Maybach light signature, brand-specific rear fascia with chrome accents, unique diffuser panel and tailpipe trims with a signature horizontal bar. Inside, the digital driver display and electrically adjustable centre multimedia display feature Maybachspecific start-up animations and display styles. Further brand hallmarks in the interior include the steering wheel, stainless steel pedals and stainless-steel door sills.
LDV UPGRADES DELIVER 9 VAN AND BUS MODELS
THE NEXT GENERATION LDV
Deliver 9 van and bus have arrived in the local market bringing with them a host of updates and upgrades.
Amongst the headline changes is the adoption of a Euro 6 compliant diesel engine. This engine also delivers more power and torque, with the new marks of 128kW and 420Nm an increase of 20kW in power and 45Nm in torque compared to the previous Deliver 9.
New Deliver 9 van and bus models standard safety features include Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Door Opening Warning, Emergency Lane Keeping, Electronic Park Brake, and front parking sensors. There’s also a new adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality.
A new 12.3-inch infotainment system (up from 10.1-inch on MY23 vehicles) comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital radio and a high-definition rearview camera (not available in the cab chassis variant).
Long wheelbase medium and high roof vans also feature 236-degree opening cargo doors as standard.
Pricing for the MY24 Deliver 9 models sees the range start at $48,990 (Driveaway ABN pricing) for the MWB Mid Roof Auto model to $64,990 (Driveaway ABN pricing) for the LWB H/R Auto 14-seat bus.
LDV Deliver 9
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ZEEKR UNVEILS AUSTRALIA-BOUND ZEEKR X SUV
ZEEKR, THE PREMIUM electric vehicle company that is part of China’s Geely Automotive, has previewed the Zeekr X compact SUV at a media event held in Sydney last month. It will be the brand’s first vehicle available in Australia and will be followed by the Zeekr 009, an electric luxury MPV, by the end of this year.
Built on the company’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), the Zeekr X uses the brand’s proprietary electric motor and battery technology to deliver what it calls ‘an ideal balance of long-range, high efficiency, and excellent performance.’
BUILT ON THE COMPANY’S SUSTAINABLE EXPERIENCE ARCHITECTURE (SEA), THE ZEEKR X USES THE BRAND’S PROPRIETARY ELECTRIC MOTOR AND BATTERY TECHNOLOGY . . .
Two models, A Rear-Wheel-Drive (RWD) and All-Wheel-Drive (AWD), are available. Both have a 66kWh battery with the RWD offering 200kW/343Nm and up to 540km of range while the AWD serves up
315kW/543Nm and up to 470km of range.
150kW DC charging is available, replenishing the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes. A standard 7.2kW AC on-board charger on the RWD model can charge the battery from 0 to 100 per cent in 11.5 hours. An 11kW charger on the AWD model offers 0 to 100 per cent recharging in 7.5 hours.
A 5G-enabled digital cockpit offers an array of connected features and intuitive controls in the Zeekr X and delivers fast processing power. Over-the-air software updates are available, as is Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality.
There’s an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch central touchscreen, while features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, dual zone climate control, and options include a 24.3-inch Augmented Reality Head-Up Display, 6-way power front passenger seat, 4-way power lumbar support for front seats,
heated steering wheel, and more.
The infotainment system has Zeekr Voice Assistant, enabling control of numerous vehicle features including navigation, climate control, and media playback.
Some interesting features include some pre-defined convenience modes. These include Theatre Mode which adjusts seats automatically 'into the ideal position for enjoying music.' Pet Mode, meanwhile, maintains the cabin at an optimal temperature and the touchscreen displays a message to reassure passers-by the pets locked inside are comfortable and safe.
A security feature known as Sentry Mode is also offered. When the Zeekr X is parked and locked, it will create a video of the area around the vehicle if suspicious activity is detected. Only the driver can access the recordings, which are stored in the car’s built-in storage or on a USB flash drive plugged into the USB interface.
Safety and driver assistance features are plentiful and include Automated Parking Assist, Around View Monitor, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Lane Change, Blind Spot Detection, Collision Mitigation Support Front and Rear, Driver Performance Monitor, Front Cross Traffic Assist, Lane Centering Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and much more.
The Zeekr X is available for pre-order from this month, and the company has been collecting expressions of interest from Australian customers via its official website.
FORD EVEREST GETS TREMOR UPGRADE TREATMENT
AFTER THE ARRIVAL in recent weeks of the Tremor variant of Ford’s big-selling Ranger ute, the company's Everest SUV is now getting the same upgrade treatment.
The Tremor upgrades will, Ford says, make the Everest even more capable off-road while keeping its on-road performance.
THE EVEREST TREMOR HAS A MANUFACTURER’S LIST PRICE OF $76,590 (INCL. GST). CUSTOMERS CAN FURTHER PERSONALISE THEIR TREMOR WITH A RANGE OF FACTORY-FIT OPTIONS . . .
Powered by the 3-litre V6 turbo diesel delivering 184kW and 600Nm, the Everest Tremor gets Enhanced Suspension and Tyres including Bilstein Position-Sensitive Dampers, new springs, and General Grabber AT3 All-Terrain Tyres providing 26mm of additional ground clearance compared to the standard Everest. Also here is Rock Crawl Drive Mode which is designed to optimise traction and momentum on loose and rocky surfaces. Design tweaks and extra features include a honeycomb grille design with auxiliary LED lamps, a steel bash plate, heavy-duty side steps, and signature Tremor badging. The interior carries Tremor-embossed leather accented seats, ebony-coloured interior accents, and all-weather floor mats.
The Everest Tremor has a manufacturer’s list price of $76,590 (incl. GST). Customers can further personalise their Tremor with a range of factory-fit options, including the Rough Terrain Pack featuring ARB accessories, a Touring Pack, a Premium Seat Pack, and a Towing Pack. It will be available in the exclusive Command Grey exterior colour.
Production of the Everest Tremor is expected to commence in November.
Everest Tremor
Providing
Attracting
CHERY REVEALS SPECS FOR OMODA E5 EV & NEW ADDITION TO MODEL LINE-UP
CHERY AUSTRALIA HAS confirmed specifications for its first all-electric model, the Omoda E5.
The Omoda E5 crossover SUV is powered by a single electric motor that produces 150kW and 340Nm and drives the front wheels. A 61kWh battery delivers a driving range of up to 430km (WLTP) and acceleration sees the E5 sprint from 0 to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds.
Fast DC charging up to 80kW sees a 30 to 80 per cent recharge take under 30 minutes.
Two variants of the Omoda E5 will be available in the local market – an entrylevel BX priced from $42,990 and the EX which boasts some extras over what is a pretty impressive list of standard features and functions and is priced from $45,990.
The entry-level BX is equipped coming
with dual 12.3-inch screens (instrument cluster and infotainment), 18-inch alloy wheels, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 50W wireless phone charger. Also available is built-in sat-nav, three drive modes, intelligent voice command, 6-speaker Sony sound system, and DAB+ radio.
Advanced driver assistance system features are comprehensive, and amongst the include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Emergency Lane Keeping, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention,
THE TIGGO 4 WILL ARRIVE IN TWO GRADES – THE TIGGO 4 PRO URBAN AND THE TIGGO 4 PRO ULTIMATE.
Omoda E5
THE OMODA E5 CROSSOVER SUV IS POWERED BY A SINGLE ELECTRIC MOTOR THAT PRODUCES 150KW AND 340NM AND DRIVES THE FRONT WHEELS.
Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Braking, Rear Collision Warning, and Driver Monitoring System. There are also seven airbags that include driver, passenger, centre, front side and side curtain.
The EX gets a few extras, including a power tailgate, a power sunroof, puddle lamps, an 8-speaker sound system, 6-way power driver’s seat, heated steering wheel and more.
5 distinct colours are offered: Titan Green, Lunar White, Saturn Silver, Space Black and Martain Red. There’s also the option of a black roof on EX model Titan Green and Lunar White models.
The Omoda E5 battery is covered by an 8-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, while the vehicle is backed-up by Chery’s 7-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, 7-year capped price servicing and up to 7 years of roadside assistance.
Along with the announcement of the Omoda E5 specs, Chery also announced that its model line-up would expand in Australia with the Tiggo 4 Pro – a compact SUV that is due to arrive in October.
The Tiggo 4 will arrive in two grades –the Tiggo 4 Pro Urban and the Tiggo 4 Pro Ultimate.
Both will be powered by Chery’s 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine offering 108kW/210Nm.
Other features include a 10.25-inch infotainment dual screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 7 airbags, heated front seats and a comprehensive list of driver assistance features.
Chery says the new model will be available to order from the 16th of September, with vehicles in Chery showrooms from October.
The company says it will be available with a driveaway price from under $24,000, which makes it a very intriguing option.
Tiggo 4 Pro
NEW MG HS SUV LANDS IN AUSTRALIAN SHOWROOMS
THE ALL-NEW MG HS SUV has arrived.
Complete with a sleek new design, the front-wheel-drive HS offers two powertrains. A turbocharged 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 125kW and 275Nm is backed by a 7-speed, dualclutch transmission. This model hits showrooms this month with a Plug-in Hybrid to follow soon.
MG says the petrol HS offers combined CO2 emissions of 156g/km and a combined fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km.
Three variants - Vibe, Excite, and Essence – are available and all boast that sophisticated new look, along with an equally tasty interior.
That interior includes a new dual-screen set-up. Two 12.3-inch screens greet the driver – the central infotainment screen provides smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with built-in live navigation (on Excite and Essence models), and a 360-degree camera (Excite and Essence models). The driver’s
THREE VARIANTS - VIBE, EXCITE, AND ESSENCE – ARE AVAILABLE AND ALL BOAST THAT SOPHISTICATED NEW LOOK, ALONG WITH AN EQUALLY TASTY INTERIOR.
display offers a variety of layouts, featuring a real-time visualisation of the vehicle and its surroundings while ensuring driving information remains prominent.
The Vibe grade has automatic LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 12.3inch Dual Screen Entertainment System which features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity in the centre console. Upgrade to the Excite grade means more advanced features are available, including 19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera, and remote control of the air conditioner or heater via the MG iSmart app. The
Essence grade offers a panoramic sunroof, an 8-speaker audio system, and wireless smartphone charging. All models get USB ports (two up front and two at the back), bluetooth connections and DAB radio.
The MG Pilot safety suite delivers plenty of safety assistance feature. The HS is equipped with adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot detection, among a vast array of other driver assistance system features.
Colour choices include Cashmere Silver Metallic, Lunar Grey Metallic, Arctic Blue Metallic, Diamond Red Metallic, Black Pearl Metallic, and Pearl White Metallic. Pricing for the MG HS (petrol) see the Vibe come in at $33,990, the Excite at $36,990 and the Essence at $40,990.
CITROEN SET TO LEAVE AUSTRALIAN MARKET
CITROEN IS LEAVING the Australian market, with the move revealed in mid-August.
Citroen Australia revealed that new vehicle orders placed by customers before 1st November 2024 will be fulfilled and delivered to Australian customers. It will continue to support the vehicle maintenance and servicing requirements of Australian customers - via 35 authorised Service Centres - following the end of local new vehicle sales.
The decision to cease new vehicle sales, the company said, ‘followed consultation with the retailer network, careful consideration of the current and future Citroen product available for the Australian market, and how this aligns with the evolving consumer demands and local market requirements.’
"Whilst we acknowledge and celebrate Citroen's rich history in the Australian market, we must look to the future and consider the rapidly evolving, dynamic, and competitive nature of the industry and local market, alongside changing consumer demands,” said David Owen, General Manager Citroen Australia, in a media release.
NISSAN UNWRAPS THE ALL-NEW PATROL
NISSAN HAS UNVEILED the seventh generation of the venerable Patrol, the company’s big and iconic 4WD that has been around in one form or
Revealed at an event in Abu Dhabi, the new model is a banger. It looks big and powerful and luxurious, and is indeed all those things. In fact, Nissan says that thanks to the new 3.5-litre V6 twin turbo
Nissan Patrol
REVEALED AT AN EVENT IN ABU DHABI, THE NEW MODEL IS A BANGER. IT LOOKS BIG AND POWERFUL AND LUXURIOUS, AND IS INDEED ALL THOSE THINGS.
engine that sits under that commanding exterior, the new, top-variant Patrol is the most powerful to date. That engine delivers 317kW and 700Nm and achieves, the company says, a 7 per cent increase in power, a 25 per cent increase in torque, and enhances fuel efficiency by 24 per cent, over
the outgoing V8 engine. Power is sent to the wheels via a 9-speed auto transmission.
While this monster twin-turbo is the big boy of the powertrain options, there is a 3.8-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine option, producing 236kW and 386Nm of torque.
Nissan says enhancements to the new V6 twin-turbo motor include improved throttle response, high combustion efficiency to maximise power output, and mirror bore coating to enhance thermal efficiency. The high heat-resistant turbocharger maintains peak performance
lubrication on slopes and inclines.
Also featured on the new Patrol is a new adaptive air suspension system available as standard, and drivers can continue to tailor their drive via a selection of six drive modes – standard, sand, rock, mud, eco and sport. Introduced here also is a 4WD transfer mode interlock system, a first for Nissan, which offers 'intuitive handling across various terrains, allowing drivers to seamlessly switch between modes.'
Underlying all this is a range of advanced chassis systems and electronic aids, including Vehicle Dynamic Control,
Traction Control and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
Inside, the new Patrol brings a premium luxury touch. The interior features quilted leather seats that have massage functionality and eight-way adjustment. There’s a standard panoramic sunroof and second-row seats are equipped with ‘NASA-inspired spinal support technology.’ Additionally, there's a horizontal ‘Piano Button’ E-shifter for gear selection introduced for the first time in the Patrol. There’s a 28.6-inch horizontal Monolith display, featuring twin 14.3-inch displays
NISSAN SAYS THE NEW PATROL OFFERS UP
TO
30
PER
CENT MORE ROOM
COMPARED TO PREVIOUS MODELS, AS WELL AS A COMBINED 9-LITER STORAGE ACROSS THE GLOVE AND CONSOLE BOX.
that provide navigation, entertainment, and vehicle information. Rear-seat passengers get dual 12.8-inch screens. There’s also a 64-colour ambient lighting system in the cabin along with a 12-speaker Klipsch Premium Audio system.
A particular high-tech feature available in select grades is Biometric Cooling technology which Nissan says uses a built-in infrared sensor to detect the body temperature of front and second row passengers, and automatically adjusts air flow settings for cooling.
Nissan says the new Patrol offers up to 30 per cent more room compared to previous models, as well as a combined 9-litre storage across the glove and console box.
Technology includes built-in Google and NissanConnect 2.0 that integrates navigation, security and entertainment into a unified platform. A MyNISSAN app serves as a central hub for remote access and personalisation.
There’s a head-up display and Nissan’s
ProPILOT technology makes its debut in the new Patrol too. Also here is Panorama View, featuring ‘Ultra-Wide View’ and ‘Invisible Hood View’, with Invisible-toVisible technology projecting real-time images of obstacles and navigation cues on the horizontal monolith screen. The Ultra-Wide View expands the field of vision to 170 degrees, while the Invisible Hood provides a clear view of the area directly beneath the vehicle.
The Patrol is also equipped with a 3D Around View Monitor which offers a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Additional safety features include the Smart Rear View Mirror and Rear Zoom View, as well as Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Predictive Forward Collision Warning and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking.
The new body structure, constructed with increased use of high-strength steel, improves frontal crash and pedestrian protection and there are seven airbags as well as knee airbags designed to enhance the driver’s safety.
There’s also an updated power lift gate, as well as USB Type-C ports in every row and a wireless phone charger pad in the front centre console.
Reports suggest that the new Nissan Patrol will be available to order in Australia from late 2026. Pricing and specifications for the local market are to come.
New vehicle sales
NEW-VEHICLE SALES STAY STRONG IN AUGUST
ANOTHER STRONG MONTH saw Australia record 98,328 new vehicle sales in August 2024 making it the second-best August result on record.
The number, recorded by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) and VFACTS, looks good but it represents a 10.6 per cent drop compared to August 2023 when 109,966 vehicles were sold.
All local markets registered a decrease in sales compared to the same month last year, with Queensland down 7.5 per cent to 21,310 sales. The ACT was down 21.9 per cent on August 2023 to 1,338; NSW was down 13.9 per cent to 29,831; Northern Territory was down 8.1 per cent to 911; South Australia also decreased by 2 per cent to 6,813; Tasmania had a decrease of 13 per cent to 1,604; Victoria decreased 10.6 per cent to 26,039 and Western Australia decreased 9.9 per cent to 10,482.
Toyota was market leader with sales of 21,490 in August, followed by Ford (8,890), Mazda (8,263), Kia (6,903) and Hyundai (6,211). The Toyota RAV4 was Australia’s top selling vehicle with sales of 6,712 in August followed by Ford Ranger (5,431), Toyota HiLux (4,496), Isuzu Ute D-Max (2,548) and Toyota Landcruiser (2,504).
“This is a positive result in historic terms with this being the second highest August ever in Australia. The outlier in the data is the 2023 number which broke the previous best August result (2017) by 13.8 per cent. Year to date the market is up by 5.3 per cent," said Tony Weber, FCAI Chief Executive.
Of particular interest in the sales data was that hybrid vehicle sales have
“THIS IS A POSITIVE RESULT IN HISTORIC TERMS WITH THIS BEING THE SECOND HIGHEST AUGUST EVER IN AUSTRALIA . . . ”
rocketed, while battery-electric vehicle sales have slowed. In August 2024, sales for hybrids hit 16,664 and plug-in hybrids reached 2644. That compares to 11,500 and 1203 respectively in August 2023. Batteryelectric vehicles, meanwhile, registered 3,434 sales in August 2024 against 6,984 in the same month last year.
“Consumers continue to embrace low emission vehicles with hybrid sales up 44.9 per cent on August 2023 while sales of plug-in hybrid vehicles are up 119.8 per cent. However, in line with the experience in many global markets, sales of battery electric vehicles are disappointing. This is despite the supply of battery electric vehicles increasing significantly with more brands and EV models having entered the Australian market,” he said.
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Workplace relations
REN LEE SENIOR WORKPLACE RELATIONS ADVISOR
NAVIGATING THE 26
AUGUST 2024 CLOSING THE LOOPHOLES CHANGES
AS PART OF the Closing the Loopholes reform, several changes to workplace laws have now come into effect as of 26 August 2024.
All businesses are reminded to stay aware of the changes to ensure compliance.
Some of the key changes are briefly outlined below.
NEW RIGHT TO DISCONNECT
From 26 August 2024 (with a small business exemption until 26 August 2025), employees will have the right to refuse contact from their employer and other third parties outside their working hours unless such refusals would be ‘unreasonable’. However, this does not prevent messages being sent after hours.
CASUAL EMPLOYMENT CHANGES
Casual employment rules have now changed, including how casual work is defined, pathways to permanency, employer and employee responsibilities in regard to casual employment, and changes to resolving disputes about changes to casual employment.
NEW JURISDICTION FOR INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AND UNFAIR CONTRACT TERMS
The new laws also update the definitions and regulations concerning independent contractors. These changes aim to provide greater clarity on the nature of independent contractor relationships and distinguish them from traditional employment. The Fair Work Commission can also now amend, vary, or set
ALL BUSINESSES ARE REMINDED TO STAY AWARE OF THE CHANGES TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE.
aside “services contracts” which include one or more unfair contract terms relating to a workplace relations matter.
NEW DEFINITION OF EMPLOYER AND EMPLOYEE
A new employer and employee definition, which places primacy on the substance of the employment relationship rather than written contract.
This is to provide greater clarity to the true nature of the employment relationship, especially in determining employee vs independent contractor.
An ‘opt out’ provision is also introduced for contractors earning above the contractor high income threshold to effectively opt out of the new law.
CHANGES TO GIG ECONOMY/ REGULATED WORKERS
In addition to updating contractor and employer and employee definitions, the new laws introduce enhanced minimum standards for gig economy and road transport workers. These standards stand to address the unique challenges faced by workers in these sectors, such as irregular working hours and safety concerns.
The information in this article is general and does not constitute legal advice. As these and other changes continue to roll out, MTAQ will continue to provide regular updates. For further information and advice about workplace relations matters, please contact MTAQ.
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MTA Institute News
THE
AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR
continues to exhibit a robust fascination, successfully attracting a significant number of school leavers. While this is positive, there remains a pressing need to enhance efforts aimed at drawing in the most suitable candidates.
The primary goal is to bolster the influx of new entrants into automotive careers, yet it is equally essential to address and refine the perceptions held by school communities - which include students, parents, and educational coordinatorsregarding the diverse opportunities that the industry offers. This alignment is crucial for ensuring that potential candidates are well-informed about the various pathways available within the sector.
Establishing a strong connection between educational institutions and the automotive industry is vital for providing clear guidance on job opportunities and the various entry points and career pathways that are evolving in response to the industry's rapidly changing skill requirements. Such engagement not only facilitates a better understanding of the career landscape but also helps to bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that students are adequately prepared to meet the demands of the automotive workforce.
MTA Queensland is actively fostering school-industry partnerships throughout the region, effectively linking students with local employers to enhance employment prospects.
Currently, the MTA Institute offers five Vocational Education and Training in
MTA QUEENSLAND IS ACTIVELY FOSTERING SCHOOL-INDUSTRY
PARTNERSHIPS THROUGHOUT THE REGION, EFFECTIVELY LINKING STUDENTS WITH LOCAL EMPLOYERS TO ENHANCE EMPLOYMENT PROSPECTS.
Schools (VETiS) programs, with plans to expand by adding two more schools in 2025, alongside a promising initiative in Cairns.
In addition to these programs, MTA Queensland is set to conduct an unprecedented number of Auto Ready programs during the upcoming school holidays, providing students with a five-day immersive experience in the automotive industry.
Unlike other program providers, MTA Queensland is uniquely positioned to facilitate genuine connections between students and employers, creating valuable opportunities for work experience and future employment.
Please do not hesitate in contacting us for further information on these programs or if you'd like to participate in facilitating work experience or have employment opportunities for our enthusiastic, job-ready participants.
MARCELLO RIOTTO DIRECTOR, MTA INSTITUTE
Apprentice of the Month: August 2024
APPRENTICE: TRENT JONES
WORKPLACE:
BOB PARKES AUTOMOTIVE
APPRENTICESHIP: LIGHT VEHICLE MECHANICAL
TRENT JONES IS the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for August 2024. The 34-year-old has 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 bespoke exhaust work as well as general maintenance and repair services.
An outstanding member of the team and a diligent student, 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.”
become a mechanic was strong enough 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 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 as 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.
One thing that anyone working in the automotive industry will know is that no matter which sector you are in, you never stop learning. With the transition to electrification underway, even a dualqualified tradesman such as Trent recognises that he’ll be back in training mode soon.
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 mechanical 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
“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 jumpstart 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.
“I’m not looking too far ahead but keeping it in the now with my young kids. Future-wise I'd like to stay in the business - maybe get to the point where I’m in a foreman role or something like that. That’s where I am looking.”
VIDEO: INTERVIEW WITH ROBERT PARKES
• 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 THE MTA INSTITUTE’S LATEST GRADUATES
THE MTA INSTITUTE is the largest independent provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland and it is always a proud moment when its
APPRENTICE
Bryce Titmarsh
Jett Sherry
Lachlan Bagley
Lance Maguire
Hannah Walden
James Baretta
Matthew Bayliss
Baqer Muhammadi
Justin Piccini
Brendan Bryers
Michelle Lisciandro
Sean Woolley
David Hunt
Clayton Buckton
Callum Crosthwaite
Jack McMullen
Ryan McCowan
Blake Peagham
Martin Cason
Jarrod Hawkes
Craig McGahey
Trey Mitchell
Liam Hosie
Jayson Thompson
Damien Baker
Jackson McCurdy
Tyler Wilkinson-Clarke
Caleb Perry
students complete their trade qualification. Congratulations to everyone who was issued a qualification in August 2024. It's a fantastic achievement!
QUALIFICATION TRAINER
Certificate III in Agricultural Mechanical 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
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)
Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)
Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting)
Michael De Waard
Shane Palmer
Gavin Jacobs
Wayne Fitzgerald
Keith Minchin
Gareth Hartley
Keiran Charters
Alfio Rotolone
Alfio Rotolone
Steve Cameron
Colin Crichton
Scott Buckley
Certificate III in Automotive Sales (Parts Interpreting) Antony Joslin
Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Michael De Waard
Steve Adams
Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Frank Crause
Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology
Gareth Hartley
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Antony Joslin
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
Jason McCann
Lloyd Cross
Frank Crause
Andrew Keys
Damien O'Connor
Don Lerm
Simon Verkroost
Derrick Pratt
Dennis Shaw
Samuel Lawson
Nathan Von Deest
Trent Jones
Natalie Schulte-Duffey
Joshua Baptie
Bradley Sauer
Cooper Riley
Daniel Hampton
Nicholas Wilks
Scott Young
Zachary Bentley
Luke Byrne
Caleb Stiles
Connor McLeod
Harry Bulat
Jaiden Morgan
Joshua Nolan
Benjamin Rea
Nathan Proctor
Morgan Byrne
Nikolas Hine
James Bramich
Isaak Proposch
Dominick Roberts
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 Motorcycle Mechanical Technology
Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology
Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology
Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology
Certificate III in Motorcycle Mechanical Technology
Ross Wilson
Jason McCann
Terry Palfrey
Colin Crichton
Colin Crichton
Colin Crichton
Scott Buckley
Antony Joslin
Damien O'Connor
Simon Verkroost
Samuel Lawson
Derrick Pratt
James Dixon
Stuart Davies
Jens Puder
Stuart Davies
Stuart Davies
Stephen Blaauw
Sol Layland
Ivan Aird
Jason McCann
Lloyd Cross
Scott Buckley
TO MORE THAN 17,000 PEOPLE DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN THE MOTORING INDUSTRY (WEBSITE OR E-MAGAZINE OPTIONS)
GEAR UP FOR SUCCESS: AUTOMOTIVE CAREER PREPARATION SESSIONS BY MTA QUEENSLAND
IN TODAY’S FAST-EVOLVING job market, it’s crucial that jobseekers looking to enter the workforce possess not only foundational skills but also the ability to adapt to new challenges. At MTA Queensland, our workforce projects provide job-ready candidates who are prepared to transition into entry-level jobs in the automotive industry.
Through the Opening Doors to the Automotive Industry project, our workforce team is delivering Automotive Career Preparation sessions, which are designed to equip job seekers with the practical workshop skills and insights so they can be well prepared and make a strong impression in the job market. By incorporating real-world scenarios and hands-on projects, we ensure candidates gain practical experience before they arrive at an interview.
Through each session, jobseekers engage in tasks such as changing a tyre, examining vehicle components, and observing a car's underbody on a hoist. This hands-on experience ensures that jobseekers are not only familiar with automotive vehicles but also understand the basic operations that occur in workplaces. Each participant also receives a general safety induction, which is crucial for ensuring they can work in a safe manner when placed in an automotive workshop environment.
Another key focus of these sessions is targeted training on how jobseekers conduct themselves in interviews, including body language dos and don’ts, preparation techniques, and effective responses to common interview questions. Jobseekers can also practice their skills through engaging in mock interviews. By preparing candidates in this way, they will be better prepared for an interview with an automotive industry employer.
MTA Queensland’s sessions cater to a wide range of individuals, including people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds, First Nations People, women, people with disabilities, and those affected by long-term unemployment. Feedback from participants highlights that by engaging in the session they feel better
MTA QUEENSLAND
COLLABORATES
CLOSELY WITH EMPLOYMENT PROVIDERS AND COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS TO CONNECT WITH INDIVIDUALS WHO WILL BENEFIT MOST FROM OUR SESSIONS.
prepared to start their career in the automotive industry.
MTA Queensland collaborates closely with employment providers and community organisations to connect with individuals who will benefit most from our sessions. This process not only enhances our candidates' employability but also provides employers with a pool of well-prepared, job-ready candidates ready to begin work in the many entry-level roles available in the industry.
If you would like more information on gaining access to the pool of available labour we have for entry-level roles in the industry, get in touch with the workforce team at MTA Queensland.
• The Opening Doors to the Automotive project is funded by the Queensland Government through its Workforce Connect Program, a key initiative from the Good people. Good jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy, 2022-2032.
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EXPLORE OUR FULL RANGE OF MEMBER BENEFITS HERE.
CORPORATE PARTNERS
KELVIN MILLAR INDUSTRY WORKFORCE ADVISOR
INDUSTRY WORKFORCE ADVISOR UPDATE
IHAVE HAD A busy time lately connecting with automotive businesses in regional Queensland and the southeast corner, discussing workforce challenges and potential solutions. Recently, I have been on the Sunshine Coast and in Cairns, and also the metropolitan region hearing firsthand from business owners about the challenges they are facing in finding skilled and unskilled labour.
The feedback I get in the regions is the same as what I hear in the southeast - there are shortages everywhere. One thing I have seen though is that connecting people looking for work with employers looking for new talent works!
At the recent MTA Queensland/Capricorn Careers Expo on the Sunshine Coast, it was pleasing to see three young people get snapped up by local employers looking for talent. We have also seen at other events across Queensland young people connecting with employers and finding school-based apprenticeship, full-time apprenticeship, and work experience opportunities. Getting to your local MTA Queensland/Capricorn Career Expo event and meeting jobseekers is highly effective. Keep an eye on our Weekly Bulletin for upcoming events.
We are also holding another event this month in Cairns, focusing on local jobseekers looking for an opportunity to work in the automotive industry. The feedback on the ground from the engagement already undertaken by the MTA Queensland team has been strong from both employers and jobseekers. So far, I have connected with over 40 businesses in Cairns, with many very interested. We expect that this event, which is being held at the Bungalow Hotel, will produce positive outcomes.
Since the inception of the Industry Workforce Advisor project, MTA Queensland has engaged with 189 automotive businesses and helped 104 businesses complete a workforce plan. The project has also supported 26 businesses connect with Queensland Government human resource management grants, which has proven to be very beneficial in assisting automotive businesses implement improved human resource management practices. The Queensland Government are continuing to invest in this strategy, so if you are looking for advice on improving your human resource management framework, get in touch
. . . THERE ARE SHORTAGES EVERYWHERE. ONE THING I HAVE SEEN THOUGH IS THAT CONNECTING PEOPLE LOOKING FOR WORK WITH EMPLOYERS LOOKING FOR NEW TALENT WORKS!
with me and I will help you with your application.
Further, over the past two months, I have conducted two lunchtime webinars. The first webinar focused on accessing and recruiting skilled migrants to assist businesses fill the current skills gaps. The second webinar was on ‘supporting your diverse workforce’, aimed at helping automotive businesses retain skilled migrants after they have been introduced into the workplace. Both webinars were highly successful and well attended, so I will keep delivering webinars based on the topics that you, automotive businesses owners, want me to focus on. The next topic will be on how automotive business owners can improve their engagement and communication with young people in their businesses. This is in response to direct feedback I have heard from many business owners from across Queensland.
Future webinars will be conducted at lunchtime and will last for no longer than 40 minutes. Please keep an eye out for updates regarding them in the Weekly Bulletin, and feel free to offer any feedback on topics that you would like to hear more about. I will find the experts that can offer an informed view on each topic, providing tools and resources, and helping you build your workforce recruitment and retention capability.
Finally, if you have any questions related to workforce planning or Queensland Government grants, or if you are looking for entry level staff, please get in touch. I am very happy to help.
• The Industry Workforce Advisor program is funded by the Queensland Government as part of the Good People, Good Jobs: Queensland Workforce Strategy 2022-2032.
MTAQ MEMBER SIGNAGE
AUTO READY TRAINING PROGRAM EXPANDS TO REGIONAL QUEENSLAND
THE MTA INSTITUTE (RTO No. 31529), the leading industryowned provider of automotive apprenticeships and training in Queensland, is to expand its Auto Ready program to the regions.
High school students from across Cairns, Rockhampton, and Townsville will have the opportunity to get handson experience working with real vehicles while exploring the many exciting and prosperous career pathways available in the automotive industry.
The five-day program offers students the opportunity to learn a range of tasks relating to using and maintaining tools and equipment, as well as identifying and inspecting the mechanical and electrical components and systems of light vehicles, all while under the guidance of MTA Institute’s highly skilled and qualified Technical Trainers.
Ready course expanded its reach in 2022 to regional Queensland. Courses were held in Mackay and Dysart, and a partnership was formed with Glenmore State High School in Rockhampton to offer the program at the school's trade training facility. Locations and dates for Auto Ready’s September intake include:
• Rockhampton | 16 – 20 Sept 2024 and 23 – 27 Sept 2024
• Townsville | 16 – 20 Sept 2024
• Cairns | 23 – 27 Sept 2024
This nationally accredited program contributes three units of competency towards an AUR20720 – Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation qualification, while also earning participants 1 QCE point.
Not only this, but the program is subsidised through the Queensland Government under the Certificate 3 Guarantee program. Training is provided fee-free for VET in School students.
Initially held at the MTA Institute's state-of-the-art workshop in Brisbane, the Auto
“Given the vastness of the automotive industry, many school students are unaware of the diverse and exciting career paths it offers. From light and heavy vehicles to auto electrical work, motorcycle maintenance, parts interpretation, body repair, refinishing, mobile plant operation, agricultural machinery, and beyond, the automotive sector offers a wide array of rewarding roles,” said Marcello Riotto, Director of the MTA Institute.
“This program intends to provide a glimpse into the industry's work environment, helping students make informed career decisions.
“The MTA Institute is committed to supporting and building our future workforce. By offering handson training and real-world experience, we aim to inspire young minds and equip them with the skills necessary to jump-start their career in the automotive industry.”
ARIEL E-NOMAD
E-NOMAD CONCEPT
Concept corner
ARIEL MOTOR COMPANY, the UK-based manufacturer of ultralightweight road, track, and off-road vehicles (including the famous Atom) has unveiled the E-Nomad concept – a fully-electric version of its on/off-roader sportscar.
Based on the Ariel Nomad 2, the new model is powered by a 41kWh, 450-volt battery that feeds power to a rear integrated motor, gearbox, and inverter unit producing a maximum power output of 210kW.
Delivered through a single speed gearbox, this power, along with 490Nm of torque, sees the e-Nomad hit 60mph (96.5km/h) in 3.4 seconds. Ariel says the electric model retains the Nomad 2's all-terrain highperformance capabilities. The E-Nomad weighs in at 896kg, features all-new natural fibre bio-composite bodywork that is recyclable and has a range of up to 240km.
The 450-volt E-Nomad battery pack was developed specifically for the car by Rockfort Engineering. Weighing under 300kg, the battery unit features integrated
. . . THE NEW MODEL IS POWERED BY A 41KWH 450-VOLT BATTERY THAT FEEDS POWER TO A REAR INTEGRATED MOTOR, GEARBOX, AND INVERTER UNIT PRODUCING A MAXIMUM POWER OUTPUT OF 210KW.
cooling and heating systems to extend battery life, and there’s a split-circuit radiator providing independent cooling to the battery. A 5kW internal high-voltage heater can also pre-warm the battery in cold conditions to establish and maintain the most efficient working temperature.
The single battery pack is capable of AC (Type 2) and DC (CCS2) fast charging. This enables the E-Nomad to be charged, or via a dedicated fast charger, in under 25 minutes from 20 to 80 per cent.
The E-Nomad uses a Cascadia Motion
IDM90 combined motor, gearbox, and DX inverter drive unit weighing 92kg. The unit features a Borg Warner eDM motor spinning to 12,000rpm and single speed transmission with reduction gearing of 8.28:1. A limited slip differential and parking lock are also part of the E-Nomad specification. The drive unit is water cooled via a secondary system, independent of the battery, from the front mounted, split-circuit radiator.
The lightweight bodywork is made from natural flax fibres. Ariel says the material is made with northern European flax fibres. To give additional strength and further weight saving, the panels are backed by reinforcing ‘Power Ribs’ made from more bio-composite natural fibre. The company says the manufacture of the material represents a 73 per cent saving in CO2 when compared to carbon fibre and is 9 per cent lighter than the
equivalent carbon material.
The E-Nomad is fitted with Ariel’s new ABS system with driver selectable on- and off-road modes and has regenerative braking that allows for allowing one-pedal driving. Two drive modes are available, ECO and Sport.
A central switch panel allows selection of drive, neutral, reverse, and park settings with secondary functions to activate battery heater, charge system and switch between driving modes. In addition to displaying speed and air temperature, the instrumentation incorporates EV specific
WEIGHING UNDER 300KG, THE BATTERY UNIT FEATURES INTEGRATED COOLING AND HEATING SYSTEMS TO EXTEND BATTERY LIFE, AND THERE’S A SPLIT-CIRCUIT RADIATOR PROVIDING INDEPENDENT COOLING TO THE BATTERY.
data including battery and inverter information, powertrain temperatures; drive mode; and battery charge status.
