MAY 2015
MEMBERS CLASSIC: 1975 FORD XB JOHN GOSS SPECIAL
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MOTOR TRADES ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND
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IN S T IT U T E O F T E C H N O L O G Y
Contents Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland
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HEAD OFFICE Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 P.O. Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Tel: 07 3237 8777 Fax: 07 3844 4488 Toll Free: 1800 177 951 Email: publications@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au EDITOR Jonathan Nash ART DIRECTOR Marco Ilinic INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Ted Kowalski Michelle Chadburn POLICY Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Barry Browne 03 9807 9154 Email: barry@barrybrownemedia.com.au Emily Metelmann 07 3237 8784 Email: emilys@mtaq.com.au
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EDITORIAL Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information telephone the Editor 07 3237 8777
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SUBSCRIPTION RATES (including GST) Australia: $72.60 annually Overseas: $110 annually MOTOR TRADER PUBLISHING POLICY Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.
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MTA QUEENSLAND ABN: 74 028 933 848
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CORPORATE PARTNERS
02 From the editor 04 Policy/Viewpoint 07 Divisional news 08 MTA Q&A GOLD COAST SUSPENSION, STEERING AND BRAKES: MAT RALSTON Feature 10 MAX IS BACK: THE NEW MAD MAX MOVIE 16 Members Classic SPECIAL EDITION: 1975 FORD XB JOHN GOSS SPECIAL
MEMBERS ESSENTIALS 19 Training matters 26 Member profiles 28 Industrial relations 29 Investment matters MARKET WRAP 32 Industry insight 5 STEPS TO BUSINESS CONFIDENCE May 2015 Motor Trader | 1
From the editor
H
JONATHAN NASH EDITOR
ELLO AND WELCOME to the May edition of Motor Trader. This month, movie-goers who like the whiff of petroleum are in for a special treat as Mad Max Fury Road opens in cinemas. Absent from the big screen for 30 years, Fury Road represents a welcome return for one of Australia's most iconic screen characters. But Max Rockatansky, made famous by Mel Gibson and now portrayed by Tom Hardy, is hardly the only star of the films. The movies' vehicles - often classic motors which have undergone some quite outlandish 'cosmetic surgery' - are as important to the movies' success as any actor and Fury Road looks to be no different. To say the film will have petrolheads, including me, drooling in anticipation is classic understatement. MT takes a look at the new movie from page 10. In our Members Classic feature this month we talk to Max and Marisa Carpenter and focus on their magnificent XB Falcon John Goss Special. A limited edition production model developed to celebrate the Bathurst-winning feats of legendary driver John Goss, the 'Special' has been somewhat overlooked by the classic car market over the years. But that looks to be changing. Take a look at page 16 and it's not hard to see why. In this month's MTA Q&A Motor Trader catches up with Mat Ralston
SAVE THE DATE THE ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S BALL IS THE HIGHLIGHT ON THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY’S SOCIAL CALENDAR THIS PRESTIGIOUS BLACK-TIE event will be marketed to all MTA Queensland members, clients and stakeholders and is expected to sell out. The evening will feature dinner, entertainment and dancing and will include an awards ceremony recognising both the best and brightest MTA Institute of Technology trainees and apprentices, as well as the most creative and generous member businesses through the Innovation Award and the Community Award. Date: Saturday 31st October 2015 Time: 6:30pm - 11pm Venue: Hilton Brisbane
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from Gold Coast Suspension, Steering and Brakes (GCSSB). Mat has overseen the development of GCSSB into a thriving mechanical workshop servicing customers from the 'mums and dads' looking for general maintenance through to the high-performance requirements of the motoring enthusiast. Busy and getting busier, GCSSB looks to be a business on the move. Read more on page 8. In Training Matters we talk to Peter Cooke, recently awarded the Ulysses Club Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year title. A mature-age apprentice, recently qualified, Peter's experience and knowledge made him the stand-out candidate for the prestigious award. As always, we will endeavour to bring you news and insight into the industry, information on the latest training opportunities and highlight members' interests. If you have a story worth telling, want to appear in a Member Profiles, or have a classic car, bike or truck you would like to see featured, then please don't hesitate to contact me.
Cheers, Jonathan Nash jonathann@mtaq.com.au
M
ER
Do you have more than
A SUP A T
20 employees? Will you be SuperStream ready...
BY JUNE 30? DID YOU KNOW THAT THE GOVERNMENT’S SUPERSTREAM REGULATIONS MEAN YOU MIGHT NEED TO CHANGE THE WAY YOU ARE PAYING EMPLOYEES’ SUPER BY JUNE 30, 2015?
An easy solution MTAA Super has introduced a clearing house solution, QuickSuper, to help employers comply with the new online data and payment standards. KEY BENEFITS • Make all your super contributions with ONE transaction • 24x7 web-based access • Free for default or registered employers* • Upload payment information directly from your payroll system or input manually • Online validation of payments to ensure accuracy • Add new employees without additional paperwork • Secure online facility TAKE THE NEXT STEP Go to the MTAA Super website mtaasuper.com.au/get-superstream-ready to find out how we can help you be SuperStream compliant by June 30. Alternatively, please contact our Customer Service Centre directly on 1300 362 415. *The MTAA Super Clearing House is accessible free of charge to default or registered employers of MTAA Super subject to application criteria. Other employers may be granted use of the service at the approval of the Trustee.
mtaasuper.com.au The MTAA Super Clearing House is a non-cash payment facility issued by Westpac Banking Corporation. MTAA Super does not issue or operate the MTAA Super Clearing House. It offers a high level of security, stability and privacy and is subject to regulation as a financial product. You should consider the terms and conditions in the Product Disclosure Statement in deciding whether to use the MTAA Super Clearing House, which is available from https://clearinghouse.mtaasuper.com.au/ApplicationIntroductionView. This document is issued by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) of Level 3, 39 Brisbane Avenue Barton ACT 2600, Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd and Members Equity Bank Pty Ltd. The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure statement (PDS), an important document containing all the information you need to make a decision about MTAA Super, can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.
Policy/Viewpoint
B
KELLIE DEWAR GENERAL MANAGER MTA QUEENSLAND
USY, THAT IS what the action has been at the Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence. It seems like only yesterday I was preparing April’s Viewpoint and now it is May. In fact, it has been busy since the beginning of the year. One reason is that some of our long-term staff left for new horizons. This meant we, including me, have had to multi-skill across various roles whilst, at the same time, perform our own duties. Over the last few weeks I’ve been interviewing applicants for several roles and we now have a full staff complement, ensuring the high quality advocacy and standard of service that we aim to provide members is achieved. Our new Divisional Executive is Colin Fitzpatrick (replacing Ben Chesterfield). Colin's responsibilities include working with members in the Tyre and Undercar, Rental Vehicles, Service Stations and Convenience Stores, National Auto Collision Alliance Queensland Farm and Industrial Machinery divisions. Colin has immersed himself into the role and is ready to be the 'go to' person for each of these divisions. Ted Kowalski has a new assistant, Paul Murray, following the departure of Michelle Chadburn. Paul has taken up the role ensuring the competent, knowledgeable and specific industrial relations advice needed by members is on tap. Member Services Administration Support has been reinforced with the addition of Sara Cameron following the departure of Katie Gould. Sara has her feet under the desk mastering the intricacies of the computer system that is essential in servicing the needs of members. I welcome Colin, Paul and Sara to the MTA Queensland team that has the priority of listening to and working in the best interests of members.
POLICY The issue of the month has been the Federal Government’s proposed policy reform of the Motor Vehicle 4 | Motor Trader May 2015
Standards Act 1989 (the Act). This measure included the proposal to reduce the restrictions on the personal importation of new vehicles (not for used vehicles) which is open to public consultation. It is the government’s response to the 2014 review and consultation of the Act to which we made a submission. We will be responding to the reform proposals to the Act and will be making further recommendations. The proposal has united the vast majority of the automotive industry to register concerns to the concept of liberalising the personal importation of motor vehicles into Australia. These include compromising existing safety and specification standards. There are unanswered questions too, as the Chairman of the Australian Automotive Dealer Association Ian Field said : “The announcement … to remove barriers to allow Australian consumers to personally import motor vehicles from overseas dealers transfers risks to the consumer with Minister Briggs acknowledging ‘there would be no warranties and the market would sort itself out.’” Other risks that the consumer would need to consider include: lack of provenance of the vehicle; no ANCAP safety rating; Australian Design Rules (ADRs) compliance; lack of manufacturer’s warranty and notification of recall; the ability to insure the vehicle; the vehicle may not be fit for purpose for Australian operating conditions; and lack of spare parts and specialised servicing and repair facilities. In addition, the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council warned of a potential upsurge in car thefts and related crimes if the reform measures were implemented. The fear was that any move to allow private imports of vehicles from overseas could place Australian consumers at risk of illegitimate car exporters in other countries, often controlled by criminal gangs. On the other hand, Choice is supportive of the proposed reform measure to deregulate the new car
market and would like it extended to the used car market. This is in line with the Competition policy draft report recommendation which supported relaxation on the import of second hand cars and light commercials. At this time, economic theory and feel good policy prevails which means that the automotive sector will have to strive to ensure that common sense, practical experience and good policy prevail in the best interest of the consumer. On another policy matter, I responded to the Exposure draft relating to the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman. Throughout the process, we have supported the initiative to establish the small business and family ombudsman. Critical was the definition of a small business/ family enterprise as being one in the current financial year with fewer than 100 employees or its revenue for the previous financial year being $5,000,000 or less. There was some good news from Minister for Small Business Bruce Billson on unfair contract term protections to apply to small business. He advised that the states and territories have agreed, as required under intergovernmental agreements, to proceed with the legislation to implement the reform. The new unfair contract term protections for small business will be available for enterprises of less than 20 employees and for transactions under $100,000 or for multi-year contracts totaling less than $250,000. The protections will allow the courts to declare void a term within a contract that is unfair. For example, a term that allows a big business to unilaterally change the price or key terms during the course of the contract could be considered unfair. Businesses that offer low value standard form contracts will have to comply with the new law.
ROAD SAFETY FORUM The MTA Queensland was invited as a stakeholder to the State Government’s Safer Roads, Safer Queensland forum hosted by the Police, Fire and Emergency Services Minister Jo-Ann Miller and Main Roads and Road
Safety Minister Mark Bailey. The forum was in response to the worst Easter road toll in Queensland in more than 20 years. As President David Fraser was interstate, I attended to represent the association, presenting our views on safety on the State’s roads from the perspective of the motor trades. These were well received. Each stakeholder presented ideas and strategies which would contribute to formulating new policies and road safety initiatives. Over the coming months, it is the State Government’s intentions to release a new road safety strategy and action plan for the next two years. The forum provided the opportunity to network with other stakeholders and in the near future I will be meeting with our good friends at the RACQ to discuss policies of mutual interest.
BIOFUELS BRIEFING One of the outcomes of the recent State Election and the hung parliament is the production of ethanol from cane and a fuel mandate. With this in mind, with our Divisional Executives, I was keen to meet with the Manildra Group’s Corporate Affairs Manager Kirsty Beavon for a briefing on the biofuel industry and in particular the concept of the proposed introduction of an ethanol mandate in Queensland. She reminded us that, in 2007, the Queensland Government announced support for a 10 per cent ethanol mandate of 4 billion litres annually to the Queensland fuel market but the legislation for the mandate was not implemented. Currently, only NSW has an ethanol mandate, which was introduced in 2006. Under this mandate NSW wholesalers need to ensure that ethanol makes up the defined minimum percentage of 6 percent of the total volume of NSW fuel sales. In Queensland, recent data indicates that ethanol accounts for less than 1 per cent of total sales. In NSW it is 2.74 per cent of total fuel sales. By way of contrast, in the United States ethanol sales accounts for 11 per cent of total fuel sales and in Brazil it is approximately 20 per cent of total fuel sales.
Currently, Australian ethanol producers have sufficient ethanol in storage and can supply a further 450 million litres annually. Here in Queensland, Ingham has a trial ethanol plant and a number of sugar mills are considering the costs of conversion to produce ethanol, should a market be available. Kirsty pointed out that European Union policy is that vehicles imported into member countries must be E20 compatible and by 2020 the aim is to have 10 per cent of the transport fuel of every EU country come from renewable resources. I note the Palaszczuk Government has announced it will release a biofuels discussion paper with the aim of eventually requiring oil firms to include an ethanol blend in their fuel. I will keep an eye out for any developments and will keep members informed.
PUBLIC RELATIONS After every election, it is our policy to write to all newly elected and re-elected Members of Parliament to congratulate them on their success at the poll. The letter, whilst a congratulatory letter, informs MPs about MTA Queensland and reminds them that we have members operating diverse motor trade’s businesses that contribute to the local economy and social well-being in their electorates. Over recent weeks, I have received several replies with some indicating they would like to meet with us.
NEW MOTOR VEHICLE SALES New motor vehicle sales were excellent for March. After so much negative-to-average new motor vehicle sales data, it is special to have positive figures that say consumers are back in the market for new cars. It is good news for business and equally so for the economy. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) seasonally adjusted Queensland March data indicated there were 20,415 new motor vales sales - an increase of 652 units or +3.3 per cent - the highest of any Australian state or territory. This is a positive result as it follows a strong February increase. The change on a year-to-date basis was most positive, showing a 10.2 per cent or 1,889 rise in new motor vehicle sales. May 2015 Motor Trader | 5
Policy/Viewpoint Similar to the ABS, the respected VFacts data indicated that March new motor vehicles sales for Queensland were strong with 22,499 new unit sales, an increase of 2,426 or +12.1 per cent compared with March 2014. On a year-to-date basis, total new car sales numbered 57,282, up 3,181 or +5.9 per cent. Similar to the ABS data, VFacts indicated that Queensland led the way in new car sales. Nationally, there was ongoing buoyancy with the March new car data showing that Australians purchased 105,054, up +8 per cent, new passenger cars, SUVs and commercial vehicles the largest March sales ever recorded. The strong results coincide with the March 2015 release of CommSec’s Car Affordability Index, which found car affordability is the best it has been in the 40 years since the Index began. VFacts analysis indicates that Australian consumers continued to favour versatile vehicles such as SUVs and light commercial vehicles, with the SUV segment up +15.3 per cent on March 2014 sales and a rise of +15.4 per cent on year-to-date basis. Looking at government buyers, they purchased +4.4 per cent more passenger cars, +17.7 per cent more SUVs and +9.9 per cent more light commercial vehicles.
ECONOMY The major economic news was the Consumer Price Index, or the inflation
rate, and what it means in terms of the Reserve Bank’s Board thinking - to cut or to maintain the current rate at its May meeting. The ABS data showed that nationally, consumer prices rose by just 0.2 per cent from the December quarter. One reason for this almost benign national increase was the decrease in all fuel types. The ABS said the quarterly fall was the largest since December 2008. “Over the twelve months to March 2015, automotive fuel has decreased by 22.5 per cent … the largest yearly fall in the history of the series, beginning in September 1973.” The annual rate came in at 1.3 per cent, consumer prices rose just 0.2 per cent from the December quarter. Here in Brisbane there was no change over the quarter. Consumers, it seems, are concerned and are being cautious. The Westpac Melbourne Institute Index of Consumer Sentiment fell by 3.2 per cent, providing the insight that households are feeling less confident about the economy and their immediate future. It is worrying that consumers are less confident than they were this time last year particularly with the Federal Budget due on 12 May. Recent business surveys indicated there has been “tentative signs” of improvement in business confidence and that business conditions recording a “noticeable lift.”
FEDERAL BUDGET
Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009, will fill the positions in the state registered organisation. In the event that a casual vacancy, which must be filled by election in accordance with the registered rules, arises during the term of the positions subject to this exemption application, the Board will be making further application to the Industrial Registrar for the approval of exemption from holding an election. The members of the MTA Queensland will not be detrimentally affected as eligible members have been given the opportunity to participate in the federal counterpart body’s election.
Therefore there will be no election for positions in the MTA Queensland. Members may file a notice of objection with the Queensland State Industrial Registrar within 35 days from the publication of this notice.
The June Viewpoint will have highlights of the 2015-16 Federal Budget to be delivered on 12th May 2015. This will be in addition to the customary brief of the initiatives that apply to the motor trades which will be on our website the following morning. There is consumer concern about the forthcoming Federal Budget. CHOICE’s latest nationally representative Consumer Pulse report indicates that two-thirds of Australians are concerned at how the Federal Budget might affect them. These relate to spending on hospitals, aged pensions and schools. Interestingly, Australians recognised that the Federal Budget faces a revenue challenge but the strong sentiment was that large businesses, including mining companies and banks, have a role to play. Any increase in the GST was opposed by 60 per cent of Australians. Economic reform had support of 45 per cent of households with action required over the coming 5-10 years. This compares with 22 per cent believing that there is a ‘budget emergency' and 17 per cent wanting no action beyond business-as-usual. From this survey, it is clear that the Budget will not meet everyone’s aspirations.
NOTICE TO MEMBERS
T
HE MOTOR TRADES Association of Queensland Industrial Organisation of Employers “MTA Queensland” Board will be making an application for exemption from election with the Registry of the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission. The Board is making this application as the same persons who fill positions in the federal counterpart body, the Motor Trades Association of Queensland Industrial Organisation of Employers which is registered under the Federal legislation - the Fair
6 | Motor Trader May 2015
…………………………………… PAUL PETERSON Secretary May 2015
REGIONAL VISITS The regional visit schedule has been finalised. The plan is to be in Cairns for an evening meeting on Thursday, 4th June and Gladstone for an evening meeting on Wednesday 15th June. Cloncurry is on the schedule and the date is to be confirmed. I encourage members in the Cairns,
Gladstone and adjacent areas to put the dates in their diaries. From my perspective these are important meetings as they provide the opportunity to listen to members views first hand, enabling us with our advocacy and service delivery on your behalf. In the mean time take care and stay safe.
Divisional news Ian Cole
ERAQ I am looking forward to the next ERAQ Committee meeting on May 6, 2015. As I am now the Divisional Executive for this division I am interested in the discussion of issues which affect your industry. I look forward to meeting you and establishing a proactive working relationship.
ARD The Motor dealer and Chattel Auctioneers Act has been introduced effective from December 1, 2014. One of the main changes was the deletion of Statutory Warranty B. Whilst this has been removed some members are still unaware of their need to ensure they are complying with signage and advertising content
if they are displaying and selling unwarranted vehicles under the new act. “No Statutory Warranty” signs are available from the MTA Queensland stationery department. Although Statutory Warranty B has been removed ACL still applies to unwarranted vehicles.
AED Disposal of Uncollected Goods Act of 1967 - 1973 In my contact with AED members the subject of uncollected goods seems of late to be raised more frequently. As you are aware there is a procedure that needs to be followed for the correct disposal of uncollected goods which is covered by the Act. If you are unsure of this procedure please contact me for the appropriate information.
MTAQ WELCOMES NEW DIVISIONAL EXECUTIVE
M
TAQ HAS A new Divisional Executive in its ranks with the appointment of Colin Fitzpatrick to the position vacated at the beginning of the year by Ben Chesterfield. Colin's new role will see him take responsibility for Member issues across the south-east region and he will also be responsible for the following divisions: • • • • •
Tyre and Undercar Rental Vehicles Service Stations and Convenience Stores National Auto Collision Alliance Queensland Farm and Industrial Machinery
Colin's background includes spells as Regional Manager for Isuzu Ute - including stints looking after the dealer network in WA, SA and NT and 22 years in the motorcycle industry as a distributors representative, working variously for Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki. His experience also crosses into the tyre industry where he spent some time in the wholesale tyres sector.
FORD FANTASY AS BEN TURNS 50 FORMER MTAQ DIVISIONAL Executive Ben Chesterfield recently celebrated his 50th birthday. As many MTAQ members would know, Ben has a love of cars - and Fords in particular that only the most committed petrolhead could come close to challenging. And so it comes as no surprise to find his birthday bash was decorated not just with the bunting and the balloons that are always part of such festivities, but also with rather more expensive decoration - a number of his own, and his friends', classic Ford motors.
Ben Chesterfield with his XW GT and XW GTHO at his 50th birthday celebration
May 2015 Motor Trader | 7
MTA
QA &
Mat Ralston (second from right) and some of his team from Gold Coast Suspension, Steering and Brakes
MT: What products and services does GC Suspension provide?
MR: The core of our business is steering, suspension and brakes but we offer a bumper-to-bumper service. We do everything from minor servicing to custom modifications, to clutches, gearboxes, engine exchanges, tyres - whatever the customer needs. We have close to 100 years experience across all our staff and anything we don't do in-house we use the services of reputable local businesses.
When did you start the business?
GCSSB is regularly involved with automotive events such as the GC600
MR: I moved up from Sydney in 2008 as my family took over a pre-existing Pedder’s franchise in Southport. That shop was down a quiet little back street, so after about a year I relocated it to this site on Ferry Road. We ran the franchise until renewal and then went out on our own. That was 2013. It was a move that I thought was necessary for the business to evolve. I actually moved into half of this current site but the business got very busy and I had to expand to the other half of the site too.
What's your background in the industry? MR: I'm a front-end specialist by trade – steering, suspension and brakes – and have been in the industry since I was 16. I worked for Bob Jane T-Mart in Sydney and started as a tyre fitter initially, then a wheel-aligner, then completed my courses to become a front-end specialist before moving into sales and then management.
Mat Ralston started his career in the automotive industry as a 16-year-old tyre fitter in Sydney. Leaving NSW for Queensland after 15 years working through the ranks, Mat is now the proprietor of GC Suspension, Steering and Brakes – a thriving mechanical workshop located in the heart of the Gold Coast. Why the move to Queensland and the Gold Coast?
spectrum and service the general maintenance market too.
MR: Two things. There’s the Queensland weather - we can't ignore that! - and there's the fact that I had been doing this for 15-odd years under somebody else's roof. It was time to step out and take a leap of faith.
It is a competitive market here on the Gold Coast. To what do you attribute your success?
Who are your customers and is the performance market a focus for you? MR: Everyone from the young car enthusiast, to mum and dad who need general maintenance, all the way up to the 'grey nomads' and their caravans. In fact, we do work on quite a number of caravans and we have many loyal customers who won’t go anywhere else. The business has grown exponentially and that success is down to a combination of things. We are a local business with local customers and we offer a wide range of services and pick up clientele via word-of-mouth. And, of course, we have great staff. The performance scene is thriving on the Coast and there are other performance shops that refer customers to us - for example, ones who specialise in performance engine upgrades will send them down to us for suspension upgrades and so forth. I think by committing to one market you are really limiting yourself - and the performance market is, obviously, dependent on the economy as people spend money on toys when they have it. I want to keep the business broad
MR: Customer service is key and we will provide any service our customers want. Even if it is not a service that we provide specifically, we will find an answer for them. They can leave their keys with us and know that when they come and pick their car up later, it's done. We also do a lot of advertising through social media, radio, things like that, and we get a lot of customers who come in on the basis of our website, which is very professional. We also get involved in car events such as the GC600 and various other car shows and hot rod shows. We are actually sponsoring our own event in association with CMC (Car Mad Club). We try to have a presence at all these events, although that can be quite tough as we work six full days every week and it often means taking staff out of the workshop and working on a Sunday - which is our only day off !
How do you keep up with new vehicle technology - how important is training? MR: It's very important - the boys are always learning and if we don't have an answer for something we research it and relay the information across the team so we are across it if the issue should come in again.
I have eight staff and the team is very experienced. We have one diesel mechanic while the others are all motor mechanics apart from our junior who has just finished his Cert II in Automotive. And we are all specialists in some field in the industry too. Andy did a few years with Mercedes, Joel with Ford, Josh spent a few years building buses, Brendan's done a lot of light electrical and audio work and Luke has worked a lot with earthmoving equipment. And I am definitely hands-on. My desk is actually out in the workshop - I like to be involved and I don't see how boxing myself off in an office is going to give me the full scope of what's going on in the business.
GC Suspension, Steering and Brakes has grown remarkably. Do you have any plans for the future? MR: There are a few possibilities on the cards but I'll keep them under my hat for the moment!
What do you do with your spare time, if you have any? MR: I have a couple of dogs and I spend time with them - they get ignored enough from Monday to Saturday. And I try to enjoy what the Gold Coast has to offer. I've lived here coming up for 7 years and I probably still haven't seen enough of it to be honest! I'm that busy that people still have to tell me where to go by landmarks! May 2015 Motor Trader | 9
It’s the return of the great V8, as director George Miller propels motorhead Mad Max back onto the dusty, perilous roads of the post-apocalyptic Outback. WORDS: CAMILLA DAVIES
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6 YEARS ON from the original cult classic, Mad Max is back with a turbo charged, gasoline guzzling – and hoarding – vengeance. It’s a land where blood, petrol and now water are currency and gangs rule the roads. It’s also the film that made the world pay attention to Aussie cinema, and transformed a then unknown, leather-clad Mel Gibson into leading man material. This year, in its fourth incarnation, Mad Max: Fury Road sees British actor Tom Hardy take over the franchise in his own fight for survival. Mad Max superfans may be sceptical, but Hardy’s past roles suggest it’ll be a walk in the park for the actor. He smashed it as the rasping, deadly Bane in The Dark Knight Rises and crime drama Lawless introduced audiences to Hardy as a hard but hard-up bootlegger. The actor, who has battled addiction in his past, explains he is drawn to characters that frighten him, having experienced some wilder days himself. “Tons of them,” he confirms. “But you smarten up and realise that you might come up against someone who has skills that could really damage you...” Not Max though, whose cold fury endures as he continues to rack up mileage in his supersonic motors. Mel Gibson’s well-worn shoes must have been hard for Hardy to fill – though he’s given his all to the role. “I find it much simpler to interpret people who make me wonder what it's like to be in their skin, maybe to be tougher than I am,” he says. Just like ‘baddie’ the Nightrider, “Born with a steering wheel in his hand, and lead in his foot,” Max is a man tied to his machine – though with maybe less than 20 lines in the entire film, Hardy arguably fails to claim centre stage from the film's iconic vehicles. It's a franchise rich in automotive history, taking us from the original Max’s beloved Interceptor, a nod to classic Australian police cars. The iconic Interceptor started
life as a standard 1973 XB GT Ford Falcon Coupe, but once introduced into the franchise, quickly became a character of its own. Don't forget, in the original film mechanic Barry and Max’s MFP partner Goose use the impressive four wheeler to lure Max back into the police force: "How the hell did you get all this together?" Max asks. "It just happened Max, you know - a piece from here and a piece from there." Instantly, engine parts and body panelling become something to work for. When Mad Max 2 came to air the Interpretor was wasteland ready, presumably rejigged by Max during his years on the road. Larger fuel tanks installed in the rear suggested his dominance in the fuel race, while a hidden self-destruct device was fitted to explode in case bandits raided the tank. Just as James Bond's Aston Martin DB5 (and its countless spy mod cons) has cemented itself into nearly 50 years of movie history, Max's Falcon Coupe is still alive outside of Australia and has helped shape muscle car legacy. Mad Max: Fury Road salutes the Falcon XB once again, revamping the Road Warrior's Pursuit Special with newly modified headlights and a giant Weiand blower sticking through the hood. The new car was originally constructed in 2001 when it featured two tanks, a metal concord front end and no headlight covers. Ten years later, it was revealed with mesh style headlight covers and trimmed front bumper – in the movie, it’s been updated again, work has been done on the body panels, paint stripped off to bare metal, with black smoke from its exhaust highlighting the harsh beating given by the rough terrain. The new look Interceptor is a nod to the old, but it’s not the only car worth looking at: cleverly, each car appears to be a constructed using other bits of cars – with coilovers, chassis and rear axles all jacked together, Mad Max: Fury Road’s car catalogue will tickle any grease monkey.
May 2015 Motor Trader | 11
“WE’D LOSE HALF A VEHICLE IN SAND AND HAVE TO DIG IT OUT. “ . . . but you want to feel it like you’re really IT WAS JUST THIS UNIT IN immersed, like it’s really happening. So every THE MIDDLE OF X-MILLION car that’s smashed is smashed, every stunt is SQUARE-KILOMETRES OF a real human being . . .” DESERT, AND THEN THIS
George Miller with Tom Hardy (left) and Charlize Theron (right)
The film is at once a sequel and a reboot, designed to sit as a standalone, but chronologically between films one and two. Unsurprisingly, the exact specifications of each ride is strictly under wraps, with not only the stars but the stunt team – all ninety plus of them, included Kill Bill legend Keith Adams and Superman Returns’ Cameron Ambridge - keeping tight lipped. Director George Miller explains that "all the vehicles are kind of hybrid, cobbled together, from the wrecks of the past". Using these already beaten-up parts creates a different feel to the car blockbusters that have grown out of the original Mad Max furore. The Fast and Furious franchise replaces tough, gritty cars with the sleek racers of the 90s and 00s that came with a hefty price tag - Paul Walker and Vin Diesel test drove everything from the Toyota Supra to the Mitsubishi Eclipse, bringing luxe, sleek popping colour to the roads instead. But Mad Max: Fury Road isn't shy on Road Warrior wheels, and the producers must have spent months delving through a century's worth of mechanics. The car pieces are a jumble, but avid eyes will spot Hummers, Cadillac's, perhaps even a Holden. Spot a make from the mid 30s to the 1952 Ford Mainline Utility and chances are it'll feature somehow. 12 | Motor Trader May 2015
It's a dystopian future where today's boy racers and eco fuel engines haven't lasted the journey – but salvaged old school models have. Mad Max: Fury Road has pulled in the big guns not only with cars but the stars. Alongside Hardy is actress Charlize Theron, playing the buzz cut-sporting Imperator Furiosa. The Hollywood beauty turns Tank Girl tomboy for this movie – she battles Max in the dirt and dust before the two agree to unite on the road. "This is not just two people standing there punching each other," explained writerdirector Miller. "This is a question of which one of them is going to survive.” If Miller ever had any casting doubts, Theron’s performance during the shoot put them at rest. “I remember thinking … She IS the Imperator, and if this was a real wasteland and we were at war, I'd be really happy she's on our side." The actress’s reputation for playing troubled characters, just like Hardy’s, also precedes her. "I've played dark people in the past...and I'm nothing like that, although I can be a bitch if I need to be,” she smiles. "Most directors are constantly surprised when they meet me and get a chance to hang out with me for a while. I have a reputation for having a very raw sense of humour and I kind of use that to
(1979) It's 1979 and Hollywood is grabbed by the scruff of the neck by a low-budget Australian car flick. Supposedly about a society on the verge of breakdown, a motorcycle gang and a vengeful policeman, Mad Max is really about vehicles going very fast, bingles and a leather-clad Mel Gibson stomping about looking ridiculously cool. Made for just $400,000, Mad Max would go on to rake in more than $100million and survived being redubbed with American actors for a US film-going public who would, it was apparently thought, find it difficult to understand the Aussie accent. 36 years after it was made, Mad Max still looks the business - the audacious stunt work making sure modern-day movies are nothing but pretenders to its fast and furious crown.
my advantage. I've always used humour as a refuge and as a way of overcoming or getting past a lot of the darker, sadder things that life can throw at you." Shooting in the 21st century, red tape binds the health and safety regulations of the shoot in ways it didn’t in the 70s – not that you’d notice from the driving. But it's been a slog by any count to get Max and his hybrids back on the road. The mammoth production fell into filming purgatory for the best part of three decades, and when the crew were finally ready to hit the Outback in 2011 in Broken Hill, New South Wales, down came the rains, sprinkling the supposedly barren landscape with visible green growth. Normally, that’d be a good thing, but not in Mad Max world. Instead, to capture the wasteland feel, the crew relocated to Swakopmund in the Namibian desert for a gruelling six month shoot. Being miles from anywhere only made stunt scenes harder. Dubbed "a Western on wheels," both cast and crew had an exhausting time in the desert, essentially filming in moving vehicles for the majority of the time. Miller’s grown a reputation for his crashes – urban legend dictates that a stuntman lost his life in the shooting of Mad Max, and stunt coordinator Max Aspin did actually break his leg during a stunt – but considering the 200 plus stunts involved, things could have been worse. Back in the day, directors only had one shot to get things right, but today, even with a gargantuan budget of $150 million at his disposal, Miller has tried to stick to tradition. “Mad Max is not a superhero,” Miller told Entertainment Weekly at ComicCon. “We don’t defy the laws of physics, it’s not a fantasy film. And I think if people see too much CGI, I know when I see too much CGI, that takes me out of the experience. You want to have that sort of almost, I’m not going to say ‘documentary’ experience, but you want to feel it like you’re really immersed, like it’s really happening. So every car that’s smashed is smashed, every stunt is a real human being, even the actors do a lot of their own stunts.”
(1981) The best of the early Mad Max films, Mad Max II is a classic post-apocalyptic, dystopian flick. The Ford Interceptor looks brutal; the bad guys, including the wonderfully-named 'Great Humungus', look fantastic, and the climactic chase scene/ battle is a jaw-dropping classic. Garnering positive critical reviews at the time, the film challenged the original for box office takings and it became the template for any number of post-apocalyptic movies that would follow - none of which could challenge this original. A number of now classic motors were used in the film including a Ford Landau, a Valiant Charger, Toranas and Monaros - and an awful lot of them were destroyed . . . the horror!
(1985) Max gets involved in a power struggle in a ramshackle city called Bartertown, survives exile in the desert and turns saviour to a bunch of kids living in the middle of nowhere. An interesting story, memorable chase scenes and some very 80s big hair graced the third Mad Max film. Tina Turner's character, for example, sported a hair-do so gargantuan it suggested she owned the last bottle of hairspray on the planet. Gibson's Max, meanwhile, was not left out of the follicle fun, beginning the film adorned with one of the world's grandest mullets before settling for something altogether more sensible in the film's second half. Thunderdome ends with Max a mythical figure, a hero responsible for the stuttering recovery of society. It's a satisfying ending for an iconic character. May 2015 Motor Trader | 13
“WE’D LOSE HALF A VEHICLE IN SAND AND HAVE TO DIG IT OUT. IT WAS JUST THIS UNIT IN THE MIDDLE OF X-MILLION SQUARE-KILOMETRES OF DESERT, AND THEN THIS GROUP OF LUNATICS IN LEATHERS, LIKE A REALLY WEIRD S&M PARTY, OR A HELL’S ANGELS’ CONVENTION.”
The fearless stunt department didn't balk at 180 degree turns at 150mph, and Miller, in the depths of the Namibian desert, used real men, real wheels, wherever possible. You might be surprised to discover that Miller’s directorial repertoire also includes carefree animations Happy Feet and Babe: Pig in the City. Originally a medic, a younger Miller was actually first inspired to write the Mad Max screenplay by the traumas and road accident victims he dealt with when training as a doctor in an Australian ER. But director Miller perhaps faced the toughest journey in getting to the finishing point on his latest road chase feature film - he explains that the creative mission can be the monkey on your shoulder too. “You become the prisoner of your dreams, really. You buy into the story, you start making it, and pretty soon, you’re spending over 100 days in the desert, Namibia, doing old school kind of stunts day after day after day. And thinking, oh boy, we’ve got to be really careful we don’t hurt people. But somehow, we’ve got it there, and it’s coming to the end. And we’re getting a really good response, which is always gratifying.” But however loyal Mad Max: Fury Road is to the franchise's beginnings, any amount of CGI is going to irk the 14 | Motor Trader May 2015
devotees. That said, despite the extensive safety precautions, tough-man Hardy reveals there were still a lot of accidents. “Luckily, nobody died,” he told Empire: “We were in the middle of nowhere, so far away from the studio system that [Warner Bros] couldn’t really see what was going on, and just getting things to and from the set was a nightmare. We’d lose half a vehicle in sand and have to dig it out. It was just this unit in the middle of x-million square-kilometres of desert, and then this group of lunatics in leathers, like a really weird S&M party, or a Hell’s Angels convention. It was like Cirque du Soleil meets f***king Slipknot.” The Namibian desert might be far from Max’s original Outback, but Mad Max and the evolution of its iconic cars have endured the test of time to date, inspiring Road Warriorleather touting bikers from Queensland to roads far away. Mad Max: Fury Road has been three years in filming, 30 years in anticipation, and contains too many smoking tyres to count. With automotive evolution deeply embedded in the Mad Max franchise, the latest instalment promises to be something petrol heads can unpick for decades to come. Mad Max: Fury Road is in cinemas from 14 May.
INSTITUTE OF T EC H N O L O G Y
NEW G LIMITE OVERNME D PLAC NT FUN ES APP DING LY NOW
GET YOUR TRADE SKILLS RECOGNISED
Do you have trade skills and experience but no formal qualifications?
TRADE RECOGNITION Trade skills recognition is a way of gaining formal recognition of your skills and work experience. If you have not completed an apprenticeship in Australia or you have gained trade skills overseas, you can have your skills, work experience and trade qualifications nationally recognised. Recognition of work or training (trade recognition) allows people to gain a certificate of recognition in Queensland in an apprenticeship trade, where: • A formal apprenticeship has not been completed • An apprenticeship or trade training has been completed overseas
PARTICIPANT ELIGIBILITY 1. Be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident of Australia and living in Queensland or a Refugee and Humanitarian Visa holder living in Queensland 2. Be a skilled or experienced individual without a trade qualification, whose experiences are such that it is reasonable to assume you could achieve two thirds of a qualification or more through RPL assessment processes in a priority trade 3. Be 18 years or older 4. Express a commitment to gaining the entire qualification
MTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY OFFERS TRADE RECOGNITION FOR THE FOLLOWING QUALIFICATIONS • • • • • • • •
Agricultural Mechanical Technology Automotive Electrical Technology Automotive Body Repair Technology Automotive Refinishing Technology Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology Mobile Plant Technology Motorcycle Mechanical Technology
The Queensland Government covers the majority of the cost for trade recognition other than mandatory fees determined by Government.
COURSE LENGTH Once an application has been received with all supporting documentation, MTA Institute of Technology will assess and respond within 10 working days. Evaluation can be completed at MTA Institute of Technology’s Eight Mile Plains premises or alternatively on site at the applicants workplace.
ENROL Should you wish to obtain more information regarding trade recognition, please contact one of our friendly team using the contact details below. RTO No: 31529
Address Building 8, 2728 Logan Road Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113 Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113 Tel (07) 3722 3000 Toll Free 1800 884 137 Email training@mtaq.com.au
20130128
MTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
SPECIAL EDITION
T
HE '60S AND '70s was a golden era for the Australian muscle car. The Holden Monaro, the Valiant Charger, the Ford XY GTHO, the AC Cobra, the Torana - all were conceived during the period and have become ‘classics’ much sought after by collectors. But though these names might resonate with the public, and are certainly the ‘big’ names of the era, there were other cars built during the time which were equally as potent, and rare, but which, for one reason or another, have been overshadowed by their illustrious brethren. One of those is the 1975 Ford Falcon John Goss Special (JGS). Built to celebrate motor racing legend John Goss' victory at the 1974 Bathurst 1000, the JGS was based on the XB Falcon 500 hardtop and featured a 302 cubic inch Cleveland V8. Available in two paint schemes – Apollo Blue or Emerald Green – and with an interior of white vinyl, the JGS was, and is, a very attractive beast. And it is rare. Though exact figures don’t exist on production numbers, it is believed that less than 800 were made. In short, after flying under the radar for so long, the John Goss Special is a sleeping giant of the classic car market. And one of those sleeping giants is currently relaxing in a Lockyer Valley garage, just west of Brisbane. Owned by Max and Marisa Carpenter - Ford fans and collectors of classic cars - this particular John Goss Special looks, to the untrained eye at least, as good as the day it rolled out of the factory 40 years ago. The couple were ecstatic to get their hands on the JGS, though they rather stumbled across it while searching more
16 | Motor Trader May 2015
generally on eBay for hardtop Fords. “I always wanted a hardtop,” says Marisa with a smile. “The hardtops have a lot of style about them –they have a big rear end, they look tough, have big wheels – so finding the John Goss was a real bonus. We were just browsing on eBay when we saw it and we went up to Brisbane to inspect it - to see if it was as good as it looked - made an offer, the owner said yes and we took it straight away.” That was three years ago and the car was indeed in pretty good nick. It didn’t require any major restoration work – just a tweak here and there – and the couple have no intention of making any radical changes to it, choosing to keep it close to original. “It needs a little bit of tidying up,” says Max. “There are a few little spots of rust, which you expect in a car that age. We have put a new set of wheels on, fitted an electronic distributor for an easier start, and installed some electric fans - the Cleveland’s can overheat.” “We've put power steering in it too,” adds Marisa. “Just to make it a bit easier to reverse park!” The JGS has taken its place among a very select fleet of classic motors that Marisa and Max have built up over the past few years. Its stablemates include a Valiant coupe, an XP Falcon ute, a mint condition 1982 ESP, a Falcon XY GT
MAKE: FORD MODEL: 1975 XB JOHN GOSS SPECIAL ENGINE: 302 V8 CLEVELAND OWNER: MARISA & MAX CARPENTER OWNED SINCE: 2012
and a stunning white and blue XC Cobra (badged number 399). There are a couple of younger members of this growing muscle car brood too, with a FPV 335 and a very rare Ford Shelby Cobra concept occupying more garage space. “Let's just say that in the last three-and-a-half years we've acquired quite an extensive portfolio,” says Marisa. “They are our retirement fund . . . and they’re also fun!” And that is part of the reason that the couple have kept the John Goss Special as close to original as is reasonable – collectors pay a premium for cars that haven’t been radically altered. “We like to keep them that way because they are an investment, but we like them that way too,” says Max. “Other than wheels and maybe an exhaust system, we really wouldn’t do too much to them.” It’s no surprise the couple have an interest in things automotive. Max has spent his life in the industry – starting as a trade assistant and going on to own the Carpenter Ford and Carpenter Mitsubishi dealerships in the Lockyer Valley town of Gatton. He’s also a decent drag racer, taking his AU Falcon XR8 to sub-10 second, trophy-winning runs. As for Marisa, her father raced motorcycles in Italy and she ‘grew up with motorbikes’. “I have two younger brothers who were always doing engine transplants under mum's house, so I've always had a thing for speed,” she says. Like many classic cars, the JGS isn’t a daily driver but it
DO YOU HAVE A PRIDE AND JOY IN THE GARAGE THAT YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE IN THE PAGES OF MOTOR TRADER? does get tarmac Contact Jonathan Nash at jonathann@ time - the couple mtaq.com.au or 07 3237 8721 and let’s make sure their see if we can share your classic with cars are given a other members. regular run to keep things ticking over. Not surprisingly, when the JGS is out and about, it turns a few heads. “We were at the car wash one day," says Max. "And a bloke actually followed us in and he said to me 'A mate of mine wants to buy one, name your price'.” “I said it wasn't for sale and that I was being buried in this one!” laughs Marisa. “Whichever car we take, people wave to us, give us the thumbs-up, or take photos!” Obviously then, the John Goss Special is . . . well . . . a little bit special. But, for Marisa, choosing it as ‘favourite’ from amongst the couple’s fine collection is impossible. “They are all unique,” she says. “They are all special in their own way and I appreciate each one of them.” May 2015 Motor Trader | 17
CERTIFICATE II
INSTITUTE OF T EC H N O L O G Y
AUTOMOTIVE VOCATIONAL PREPARATION The Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation is a course designed to give suitable students a comprehensive set of skills as a basic automotive introduction to the industry. This course is subsidised for eligible participants by the Queensland Government under the Certificate 3 Guarantee program. The MTA Institute of Technology has been approved as a PQS (Pre-Qualified Supplier) to deliver the Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation. The trainee undertaking this role will primarily service mechanical parts such as the engine, transmission (clutch, gear box and differential) and the suspension systems (springs, steering, brakes, wheels and tyres).
• Be an Australian citizen or Australian permanent resident residing in Queensland or a New Zealand citizen permanently residing in Queensland.
COST TO STUDENT (CONTRIBUTION FEES) $120 (for students who are eligible for Certificate 3 Guarantee subsidies and who are eligible for the concessional rate – further details on www.mtait.edu.au)
COURSE LENGTH - 5 WEEKS
$300 (for students who are eligible for Certificate 3 Guarantee subsidies and who are non-concessional)
First intake commencing Monday 18th May 2015 and finishing up on the 19th June 2015.
$2300 (for students who are not eligible for Certificate 3 Guarantee subsidies).
Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm at building 8, 2728 Logan Road Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113.
For more information and to view our refund policy please visit www.mtait.edu.au
ELIGIBILITY
MORE INFORMATION
Prospective students must meet the following criteria for eligibility for Certificate 3 Guarantee Subsidies:
For more information on the Certificate 3 Guarantee you may visit www.training.gov.au
• Not hold or currently undertaking Certificate Level III or higher qualification. This does not include certificate III level qualifications completed while at secondary school. • Be 15 years of age or older • Have finished secondary school or have left school
Please note: Prospective students are only eligible for one subsidised training place.
To assess your eligibility and to apply for enrolment please contact our training team on (07) 3722 3000 or alternatively e-mail training@mtait.edu.au
RTO No: 31529
Address Building 8, 2728 Logan Road Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113 Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113 Tel (07) 3722 3000 Toll Free 1800 884 137 Email training@mtaq.com.au
18 | Motor Trader May 2015
20130128
MTA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
MEMBERS ESSENTIALS Contents 19 Training matters 26 Member profiles
AUTO GIANT MEGA MOTORCYCLES CALOUNDRA CRASH REPAIRS
28 Industrial relations
Peter Cooke has won the Ulysses Club Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year Award
P
ETER COOKE, A mature-age student and married father of two who has just completed his apprenticeship with MTA Institute of Technology, has taken out the National 2014 Ulysses Club, Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year award. Peter, who works for Quality Bike Repairs (QBR) in northern Brisbane, was awarded the coveted trophy and a prize that included a Honda CBR500R motorbike and one year insurance cover from QBE Insurance. He also took home gift vouchers to the value of $1000 from Supercheap Auto as one of the four 'zone winners' of the national competition. It is a mighty prize package and a prestigious award and the 50-year-old industry veteran was, not surprisingly, pleased with his win. " I didn't think I would win, I was just happy to be shortlisted," he said. "But it did feel really good! I had a phone call here at work to let me know I had won but I think Mandy already knew because she had confetti and just threw it in the air!"
Mandy is Peter's boss at QBR and she couldn't be more pleased with Peter's win. "I was chuffed to bits - very proud," she said. "Peter is a family man but has real commitment to the job - if something needs to be done and it's time to go home, he'll stay. And if we're overrun with work he'll come in early. When you're young you don't have those commitments but Peter juggled things around, put in the effort, and this award is really well-deserved." The Ulysses Motorcycle Apprentice of the Year Award, known as 'Maoty', is an annual, nationwide search for the country's best motorcycle apprentice. The 28,000-member club created the award nearly a decade ago with the intention of encouraging and promoting the idea of a career in the motorcycle industry. To find the winner, the nation is carved in to four zones - QLD/NT; SA/ WA; NSW/ACT; VIC/TAS - with the winner of each zone moving on to the the national award shortlist. Those finalists are then interviewed and „ May 2015 Motor Trader | 19
E S S E N T I A L S
MTAIT APPRENTICE WINS TOP ULYSSES CLUB AWARD
M E M B E R S
Training matters
E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S
MIT TRAINER PROFILE
Training matters required to answer some tough technical questions by the Ulysses Club's national adjudicator, Graham Moore, who, after also taking feedback from the apprentice's employer and trainer, must make the tough decision of choosing a winner. "All the nominees were of a very high level. They were Peter with QBR owner Man dy Gilmour highly skilled apprentices and excellent candidates," said Graham of this year's apprentice group. national meeting in Wodonga, "But with the employer and teacher Victoria, to be formally announced as feedback, and his technical knowledge, the Apprentice of the Year. it was clear that Peter was the best He will collect his CBR500R prize apprentice." from a local dealer when one becomes For Peter, his years in the industry, available and when he does, there's as well as the study requirements of just one thing Peter will do. his apprenticeship, helped him to "I think I'll put some kilometres on secure the title. it," he said with a grin. "My experience helped, I think," he The success that has come to said. "And the resource books were Peter after deciding to take on an handy as well. Every time Ken, my apprenticeship so late in his career trainer, came out, he would have a doesn't appear to have fazed him. "It turned out alright," he said. new resource book for me to study!" "I have the trade now . . . it's been The win saw Peter and his wife good all round!" flown down to the Ulysses Club's
ROY PIETZNER
earthmoving, agriculture, tractors and harvesters. Extensive training in Hydraulic systems repairs. Two years in Yamaha and Suzuki outboard repairs.
When did you become a trainer for MTA Institute of Technology? May 2011.
What geographical area do you service? Mackay and surrounding areas.
What is your specialised area?
What is the most satisfying aspect of your role as a trainer for MTA Institute of Technology?
Cert 3: Motorcycle, Light Vehicle, Heavy Commercial Road Transport. Diesel Fitting Mobile Plant, Diesel fitting Agriculture. Cert 2: Air conditioning and Light vehicle and Heavy Vehicle tyre fitting.
Giving students the knowledge so they can be confident in their chosen qualifications.
What is your background in the automotive industry?
Earning the students respect and trust and getting them to understand that obtaining a good education is important. Having a good education gives your freedom to do whatever you want to do or be.
41 years in vehicle repairs ranging from light vehicle, heavy road transport,
20 | Motor Trader May 2015
What do you believe is the most important aspect of training?
LUKE SCOOPS ANOTHER AWARD IT HAS BEEN a rewarding year for MTAIT autoelectrical apprentice Luke Smith. The 20-yearold, who works at Brisbane City Council's Toowong Bus workshop, won the Council's top award for second year apprentices back in November and has now taken out the Apprentice of the Year award from the Queensland Bus Industry Association. Luke was awarded the trophy in April at the Association's Gala Dinner & Awards night held at the Shangri-La Resort in Cairns. "It was a big night," said Luke. "Once I got there I wasn't confident that I would win so when they called me up I was very shocked. "It has been a good few months!"
Why should someone consider a career in the automotive industry? The automotive industry is not going to go away anytime soon. Vehicles are forever changing with new technology and you must keep learning all the time. The automotive industry has 'whole of life' employment opportunities.
What is the best piece of advice you can give to an apprentice just starting out? Make sure the job you choose to do in life is one that you are passionate about and enjoy what you do every day.
When you’re not training, what do you like to do? I like to read and update my knowledge and skills in my chosen trade and do things to keep my brain active as I think it promotes good health. I restore old machinery and love to go spearfishing as much as I can. Also visiting my family as they are the most important thing to me.
A special business offer for MTA Queensland members. To help keep your business moving, Commonwealth Bank has a special offer for MTA Queensland members. Just open a new Commonwealth Bank Business Transaction Account by 29/05/2015 and link it to your existing or new Commonwealth Bank merchant facility.
To take advantage of this offer, just contact MTA Queensland on 07 3237 8777 .
Important Information: Offer available to referrals made via MTA Queensland between 01/01/2015 and 29/05/2015. *This offer is applicable to existing and eligible new merchant facilities, excluding the Albert EFTPOS device. To maintain the fee waiver, you must retain the required products contained in this offer (including settling your merchant facility to your linked Commonwealth Bank Business transaction account). Otherwise the offer may be withdrawn. #To maintain the fee waiver, you must retain the required products, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn. Offer includes the monthly account maintenance fee of currently $10 on the Business Transaction Account linked to the merchant facility. Please refer to terms and conditions. ^Establishment fee waiver and two free tokens are available to new CommBiz customers only. This offer may be extended beyond the specified end date at the discretion of the Commonwealth Bank. Interest rates and fees are subject to change. Full conditions of use will be included in our Letter of Offer. Applications for finance subject to the Bank’s normal lending criteria. MTA Queensland may receive a fee from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each successful referral. Referral Fees are not payable on referrals from existing relationship managed Commonwealth Bank customers. This has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider its appropriateness to your circumstances before you act on it. Terms and conditions are available from commbank.com.au Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. Australian credit licence 234945.
E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S
Training matters
KEMPPI SPARKS INTEREST IN WELDING PRODUCTS T HE MTA INSTITUTE of Technology (MTAIT) recently hosted a two-day event for Finnish welding equipment manufacturer Kemppi as it came to Queensland to present its range of welding equipment to sales and service personnel from the state. “We are holding a series of roadshows across Australia and New Zealand," said Kemppi Australia Managing Director David Green. "The aim is to re-engage with our dealers to give them suitable product training and give our independent service agents service training so they are able to give aftermarket support to products in the field." The event was also an opportunity for MTAIT trainers to sit in on demonstrations and view just what one of the world's leading welding equipment companies had to offer. Kemppi was keen to show the abilities of its Kempact RA model - a model designed for professional automotive repair shops and light-tomedium fabrication workshops. "This particular machine, which is a MIG welder available in both single and three-phase, was introduced about three years ago and was driven very much from discussions and collaboration with BMW," said Mr Green. "Essentially, it was designed for a typical workshop and bodyshop. "We have had to keep up with the changes in the car industry - with materials and crash safety considerations, for example - and the Kempact RA certainly caters for all the modern-day car body materials. "I think the automotive industry has been in need of something like this and among its benefits is space – rather than having a traditional configuration this can be wheeled and put against a wall, out of the way - and the refined but simple controls which 22 | Motor Trader May 2015
Kemppi welding equipment was demonstrated to the company's sales and service staff as well as MTAIT trainers during the two-day event
MTAIT trainer Jeff Mann (right) gets an up close look at the Kemppi RA
are at waist level. "And there are two models - the Kempact R version or A version. The 'A' stands for adaptive – which means that all the customer has to do is indicate the material and the material's thickness, and the settings are automatically generated. "The 'R', or Regular version, is for when you have people who really know how to fine tune a MIG machine and know exactly where they want to be in terms of the welding. "The RA is an Inverter-based system
too, so it’s extremely efficient from a power point of view." Having the right equipment to do the job is important in any industry and in return for hosting the Kemppi event, MTAIT received one of the company's TIG welders from the MasterTig ACDC series. "It will comed in very useful," said MTAIT Senior Trainer Marcello Riotto. "It'll be good to have that addition to our inventory of training products." For more information about Kemppi products, go to www.kemppi.com
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E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S
Training matters
NADA COURSES HIGHLIGHT POTENTIAL FOR PROFITS
Ray Stewart, Jennish Gaundar and Andrew Kempers from Oldmac Mazda study the numbers under the gaze of NADA-accredited facilitator Kim Haywood
T
HE ROLL-OUT OF the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) University courses is continuing apace with dealerships signing up to take advantage of the specially-designed educational programs. Following the delivery of the first Service Department Operations Management Course held in March in Tasmania, focus switched to Brisbane and delivery of the second Service Department Operations Management course, this time held at the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTAQ) offices at The Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence. The course, designed to show how dealerships can maximise customer retention, maximise profits and secure business back from independents, was delivered to staff from Oldmac Mazda Group, based in Queensland's capital. And the small group of participants was as enthusiastic about the course and its comprehensive look at the workings of the Service department - including analysis of financial statements, sales, expense, forecasting, pay plans - as were their Tasmanian colleagues.
24 | Motor Trader May 2015
“IT’S ONE OF THE
FEW COURSES I HAVE DONE, AND OVER THE YEARS I HAVE DONE MANY, WHERE I WILL GO BACK THROUGH THE PARTICIPANT’S WORKBOOK AND KEEP GOING OVER IT – IT’S REALLY RELEVANT.”
“I really gained a lot from the course," said Ray Stewart, a 32-year veteran of the industry who has been a Service Manager with Oldmac Mazda for 14 years. "I’ve come back with at least halfa-dozen ideas about what I would like to change. For example, the benefits of upselling - of adding just 0.1 of an hour to an RO. It seems like a minor item but when you sit down and do the numbers, at the end of the year it is a lot of money! "And the course covered more than I expected – it’s one of the few courses I have done, and over the years I have done many, where I will go back
through the participant’s workbook and keep going over it again and again – it’s really relevant." For Ray's Service Manager colleague at Oldmac, Andrew Kempers, the course was just as positive. “It really opens your eyes to different ways to look at your business and get down to the nuts and bolts of everything," said Andrew. "With the training being over three days it allowed us to take the time to really stop and look at the business. To get out of the dealership for three days and take a look at the business – that in itself is invaluable." "And a lot of the things we looked at - such as workshop capacity, staffing capacity, service advisor capacity – we now have the skills to look at in a different light. In fact, on each of the three days there was something new that I took away that I think will help us to improve our business." The third member of the group was Jennish Gaundar, Financial Controller for Oldmac Mazda, and having Jennish participate in the course was something all three found very useful. “It was very interesting," she said.
ate of Achievement
"There were a number of things I learned that showed a different way of looking at the figures. And to get the Service Managers’ point of view, as well as help them to understand their numbers . . . that was really good. “It was very useful to use our own figures. Using them meant you could see what your actual results were and could then compare and discuss why you might have a good or bad result. The opportunity was there to discuss it and really understand what the numbers mean.” According to Andrew, the trio were keen to immediately take what they had learned back to their business. "We were talking in the car park as we left and have already planned a meeting to run future figures through what we have learned," he said. "Now we have this extra information, this extra knowledge, we'll use it!
The Service Department Operations Management course was specially tailored by industry experts from the Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), the NADA, and the course provider in Australia, the MTA Institute of Technology, and was delivered by NADA-accredited consultant Kim Haywood. "The course went really well," said Kim. "As a small group, it was a very conversational environment and from day one to day three something seemed to grab them - what we might call 'light bulb' moments. For instance we saw how small changes, as with adding to an RO, could make a big difference to the bottom line. "Most businesses do things very well, but the course allows them to focus and see things that can lift them up a notch - shows how you can make incrememental changes that can make a big difference to the business."
“NOW WE HAVE THIS
The Service Department Operations Management course and the Sales Operation Management I and Sales Operation Management II courses are now available through the AADA.
EXTRA INFORMATION, THIS EXTRA KNOWLEDGE, WE'LL USE IT!”
Call 07 3237 8777, email courses@aada.asn.au or go to www.aada.asn.au for more information.
James wins a $50 SuperCheap Auto gift card.
James Harre
May 2015 Motor Trader | 25
E S S E N T I A L S
Kim Haywood presenting the trio with their Certific
JAMES HARRE, a second year automotive electrical technology apprentice with Williams Auto Electricians in Cairns, is MTA Institute of Technology's student of the month for April. The talented 19-year-old has made a lasting impression with his willingness and desire to learn. "James is well-suited for his chosen field," said his MTAIT trainer Ted O'Brien. "You could say that he is a sponge for knowledge. The more you show him the more he wants to know. I am never left wondering if he understands the current topic of study as he is very willing to ask questions until satisfied." This positive assessment is mirrored by that of James' employer, Don Wilesmith, who is equally satisfied by the progress of his young charge. "Within the probation period it was obvious his enthusiasm and aptitude for the trade would exceed any apprentice I had trained in the last 30 years. "In the two years he has been with me he has been a pleasure to train and I am sure his knowledge and application to the trade will stay with him for many years to come."
M E M B E R S
STUDENT OF THE MONTH
E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S
Member profiles
Auto Giant
Mega Motorcycles Location: 37 Takalvan St, Bundaberg Type of business: Motorcycle/ ATV shop Number of employees: 8 Trading since: 2005 MTAQ member since: 2014
How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland? (MTAQ)
business to suit today’s economy and changes.
Brisbane Head Office store – Springwood Suzuki. Industry knowledge.
What is the best thing about working in your industry?
How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business? Tech support is great. Helps us keep up to date with compliance on consumer and legislative changes.
What has been your proudest business achievement to date? Growing and restructuring the
Caloundra Crash Repairs
26 | Motor Trader May 2015
Sharing the passion with customers.
What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given? Treat the customer the way you would wish to be treated.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ? MTAQ would be a valuable asset to your business.
Type of business: Automotive sales, service and repairs Number of employees: 5 Trading since: 1998
What is the best thing about working in your industry?
Industry awareness.
The passion for automotive and the reward of seeing a customer walking out the door with a car that you know is safe and reliable.
How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business? In a lot of ways - from HR advice to awards and also business courses. It’s a great organisation.
What has been your proudest business achievement to date? The Auto Giant company expansion and where we are going to be in the next 5 years. Very exciting.
What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given? Don’t resist change (just do it). Stay focused on the goal ahead and plan for the future.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ? Great idea, great organisation to with and a name that you can rely on.
Mega Motorcycles
Caloundra Crash Repairs Location: 18 Daniel Street, Caloundra, Qld 4551 Type of business: Paint and Panel Shop Number of employees: 7 Trading since: 2005
How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland? From previous ownership.
How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business? Thier knowledge of IR matters and they are always willing to help.
What has been your proudest business achievement to date? Growing the business every year for the last 10 years.
What is the best thing about working in your industry?
customer picks up their car and are really happy with the job we have done.
What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given? Try to make every customer a customer for life. Customer satisfaction is very big for us.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ? They are always there to help when you need them.
The satisfaction that we get when a
May 2015 Motor Trader | 27
E S S E N T I A L S
Location: 37 Southpine Rd, Brendale
How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland (MTAQ)?
M E M B E R S
Auto Giant
E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S
Industrial relations General protections claims involving a dismissal - beware
T TED KOWALSKI INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS MANAGER
HE FAIR WORK Act has provisions dealing with unfair dismissals and what are known as “general protections”. A breach of a general protection occurs when an employee is treated less favourably or dismissed because they have claimed or exercised a workplace right such as;• Questioning or claiming an employment entitlement - such as payment for overtime; payment of an allowance; payment for personal leave etc. • Lodging a complaint about a Workplace Health and Safety issue. • Making a complaint or enquiry in relation to their employment. • Acting as a union representative, being a union member or taking part in a strike. General Protections also include protection from discrimination on the basis of age, sex, marital status, race, sexual preference, religion, political opinion, family or carer’s responsibilities, pregnancy and temporary absence due to illness or injury. (A “temporary absence” is anything less than 3 months of unpaid sick leave in a 12 month period.) An employee who feels that adverse action – including but not restricted to dismissal - has been taken against him/her based on one of the grounds listed above, has 21 days in which to lodge an application with the Fair Work Commission. Generally, such
an application is dealt with by an initial conference involving the parties before a Commissioner/Mediator to try to resolve the issue without it going on to a formal court hearing. At such a conference, the onus is on the employer to show that the dismissal or alleged adverse action was not due to the employee claiming cover of one of the listed general protections. Employees and their advisors are becoming increasingly adept at using the general protections of the Fair Work legislation to get around the normal time limitation on an unfair dismissal claim. Normally, an employee in a firm having less than 15 employees is not protected by the unfair dismissal provisions in their first 12 months of employment, and, in a firm of 15 or more, for the first six months. By alleging a breach of one of the general protections, an employee can make the claim at any point in their employment – including while on probation. Anytime you have a situation where one of the general protections issues has arisen with an employee, at, or around the time you are considering dismissal, you need to be very sure you carefully document all performance issues you intend to use as justification for the dismissal. This will assist in showing that reason for dismissal was not based on the employee exercising a general protections right.
MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS Business Name
Principal/s
Highland Motors
Division
Luke & Peta Thompson & Stephen Masters 50 McDonalds Flat Road, Clermont Q 4721
peta@highlandmotors.com.au
AED
Innisfail Promotors
Allan Jones & Brett Saunders
25 Cassowary Street, Innisfail Q 4860
promotor@myacn.net.au
AED
Motor Vehicle Warehouse Pty Ltd
Bill Burai
43 Robinson Road, Virginia Q 4014
bill@mvw.net.au
ARD
Right Price Autoparts QLD
David Cue
1/40 Randall St, Slacks Creek Q 4127
Rightprice17@gmail.com
APRD
Smash Repair Solutions
Paul Anthony & Chris Beatty
7 Pendrey Court, Woodridge Q 4114
accounts@srsaus.com.au
NACA
The Caravan Repair Company
Jamie McHugh
10 Greg Chappell Drive, Burleigh Heads Q 4220
manager@caravanrepaircompany.com.au
NACA
28 | Motor Trader May 2015
Address
Investment matters
MARKET WRAP
M
ARKETS HAVE BEEN steady over the past month consolidating gains earlier in the year. The key focus for the market remains the direction of interest rates both domestically and in the US. This is understandable as low interest rates have been such an important catalyst for markets in the past couple of years. In addition, commodity prices remain soft and continue to impact the currency and the outlook for a range of companies in Australia. The focus remains on the timing of the Federal Reserve’s next interest rate rise. Recent economic data has been a little soft suggesting they will have more room to move regarding the timing of the interest rate rise. The question the market is asking is whether this softness reflects a seasonal slowdown due to poor weather and the cycling of stronger data or if the recent strength in currency is causing growth to slow. We think a combination of the weather and the rapid shutdown of oil-related spending is the likely culprit as we continue to see improvements in unemployment and the consumer as signalling a strong economy. Additionally, we continue to expect the US economy to perform solidly this year but the impact of higher interest rates and cost inflation might crimp profit margins and stock market performance in the US. Following years of poor performance, Europe has started to look a little better, its equity markets remain relatively cheap and are attracting significant capital flows. We see three factors positively impacting the outlook for Europe: Low oil prices with Europe largely an importer; Fiscal constraints are no longer a headwind with budgets significantly improved; and ECB purchasing €60b in assets per
“WE CONTINUE TO SEE LOWER OIL PRICES AND INTEREST RATES BOOSTING CONSUMER AND OFFSHORE STOCKS (VIA LOWER A$).” month is supporting asset prices. The main risk factor remains the unstable political environment which is likely to cause some volatility as Europe tries to navigate its way around the disfunctional currency. However there is some cause for optimism for the first time in many years. Recent Chinese data remains soft as highlighted by the leading indicators and the manufacturing data below. As a consequence, China continues to loosen its economic policies with interest rates cut twice in three months and Loan to Value ratios dropped for borrowing on new houses. While policymakers have shown willingness to respond through monetary policy and regulatory changes, high levels of debt and a lack of export response remains a constraint. Emerging markets have struggled in recent years with the capital outflow towards the US and slowing economy contributing. A bounce-back in emerging markets would be a surprise should it occur later in the year and we are looking to see if evidence emerges to support such an outcome. It would likely be helpful for resources (although we doubt it will have a meaningful impact on the demand supply equation playing out in iron ore and oil) and other companies with operations in the Asian region. The RBA is trying to stimulate
the non-resources segment of the economy. However, there is a large headwind from a drop in spending on major projects and the fall in national income. The currency looks set to fall further as do interest rates in response to this adjustment that is occurring. Recent confidence levels remain soft, as do employment levels, so more needs to be done. We would like to think infrastructure spending could accelerate but politics remains a major headwind with a change in Government in Queensland and Victoria and a reluctance to embrace cheap long term debt to finance projects. A strong first quarter leaves valuation’s looking high but still cheap relative to interest rates. We remain overweight cash at present using volatility and capital raisings to add to portfolio. We continue to see lower oil prices and interest rates boosting consumer and offshore stocks (via lower A$). Further we see growth stocks as undervalued given the compression of PE’s in the market. DISCLAIMER This document provides general information only and is not intended to be a recommendation to invest in any product or financial service mentioned above. Investment in a Dalton Nicol Reid individually managed account can only be made on completion of all the required documentation. Whilst Dalton Nicol Reid has used its best endeavours to ensure the information within this document is accurate it cannot be relied upon in any way and recipients must make their own enquiries concerning the accuracy of the information within.
May 2015 Motor Trader | 29
Motor Trades Association of Queensland
ELECTION NOTICE Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act 2009
NOMINATIONS ARE CALLED FOR: Division Committee Membersas follows: Automotive Remarketing Division (ARD) (5) Engine Re-Conditioners Association of QLD (ERAQ) (5) Service Station and Convenience Store Association of QLD (SSCSAQ) (7) Rental Vehicle Industry Division (RVID) (5) Auto Parts Recyclers Division (APRD) (5) District Representative Far North Queensland (1) District Representative Central Queensland (1) Written Nominations which comply with the Organisations registered rules, may be made at any time from 12:00 midday Friday 1st May 2015. They must reach my office or postal address not later than 12:00 midday on Monday 1st June 2015. Nominations may be withdrawn by written notification received by the Returning Officer not later than 5.00 pm on Wednesday 10th June 2015. Nomination Forms are available from me or the registered office of the Organisation. The use of these forms is not compulsory provided that nominations comply with the rules. Note: Candidates may include with their nomination form, a statement expressing their views, to be sent with the ballot material to eligible voters. Candidate's statements must be submitted by 12:00 noon on 1st June 2015.
HOW TO LODGE NOMINATIONS By Hand: AEC, North Lakes Area Office, Level 1, 12 Endeavour Blvd, North Lakes QLD 4509 By Post: Australian Electoral Commission, PO Box 1205, North Lakes QLD 4509 By Fax: (07) 3049 2120 By Email: kerri.dowsett@aec.gov.au and send a copy to qldelections@aec.gov.au Ballot: If a ballot is necessary, voting material will be posted on Wednesday 24th June 2015, to eligible members at the address shown in the Organisation’s records. Any such ballot will close at 12:00 midday on Thursday 16th July 2015. Changed Address? Advise the Organisation now. Note: A copy of the AEC’s election report can be obtained from the organisation or from me after the completion of the election. Kerri Dowsett Returning Officer Phone: 3049 2109 16 April 2015
Motor Trades Association of Queensland
NOMINATION FORM Note: 1. Nominations open at 12:00 noon on 1 May 2015 and must reach the Returning Officer at her office, postal address or by email, as shown below, not later than 12:00 noon on Monday 1 June 2015. Nominations cannot be withdrawn after 5.00 pm on Wednesday 10th June 2015. 2. To be eligible to be a Candidate you must have been a financial member for a period of thirty (30) days prior to 1 May 2015. 3. P rospective candidates and nominators should verify their financial status and any other qualifications required by the Organisation’s rules before lodging nominations. 4. Candidates may submit a statement to be included with ballot material. Only statements which comply with the Organisation’s rules and are received by 12:00 noon on 1 June 2015 will be published.
CANDIDATE: Full Name (block letters):
I/we, the undersigned financial member/s of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland, nominate:
For the Office of: E
NOMINATORS: Full Name (block letters) Signature Date
E E
_____/ _____/ 2015 _____/ _____/ 2015
Note: * The rules of your Organisation require that a candidate be nominated by a financial member of the Division ( for Division positions) or Region ( for Regional positions). * Candidates may self-nominate.
CANDIDATE’S CONSENT
I,
(Print your name as you wish it Consent to nomination for the above office for which I am eligible under the rules. to appear on the ballot paper)
POSTAL ADDRESS E TELEPHONE E EMAIL SIGNATURE AND DATE
Postcode: Work :
Home :
Mobile : Email: Signed :
_____/ _____/ 2015
Note: • As a candidate you will be sent an acknowledgment by return mail or email. • It is your responsibility to ensure that your nomination is received by the Returning Officer BEFORE nominations close. • If a ballot is required under Rule 13.8 the opening date for the ballot will be 25 June 2015 and the closing date will be Midday 16 July 2015 • The ballot will be decided by a first-past-the-post (simple majority) system of voting.
OFFICE ADDRESS :
POSTAL ADDRESS :
AEC, Level 1, 12 Endeavour Blvd NORTH LAKES QLD 4509 Telephone: 07 3049 2109 Facsimile: 07 3049 2120 EMAIL: kerri.dowsett@aec.gov.au & qldelections@aec.gov.au
Australian Electoral Commission Kerri Dowsett Returning Officer PO Box 1205 NORTH LAKES QLD 4509
Industry insight
5 STEPS TO BUSINESS CONFIDENCE B EING IN BUSINESS is tough and it takes a lot of guts to stick it out. I have the utmost respect and admiration for anyone who can start a business, survive and thrive. One word sums up those who can make it work ‘CONFIDENCE’. Not to be confused with blind confidence or bravado, confidence is a key factor in business success. There are many aspects of running a business and successful business owners need to have confidence in all of them. You need to be confident in your: • Product or service • Marketing and sales • Operations and Finance • Human Resources • Customer Service What I would like to focus on here is ‘Finance’. In my experience this is the one that underpins everything else, because if you don’t have financial confidence it makes it very hard to achieve much else. 1. Profit has to come first - if your business isn’t profitable it will only be a matter of time before it fails or you run out of energy to keep treading water. In order to be profitable you need to: a. Have a plentiful and reliable sales pipeline b. Charge the right price for your product or service c. Understand and closely manage the ‘true cost’ of your offering d. Closely manage your overheads through budgeting and reporting
2. C ash Flow is the lifeblood of your business. To have good cash flow you need to: a. Have a good understanding of what impacts cash flow e.g. i. Time customers take to pay you ii. Time you take to pay suppliers iii. Time stocks sits in store waiting to be sold iv. Time jobs are in progress prior to being invoiced 32 | Motor Trader May 2015
v. The way assets are purchased e.g. with cash or borrowings vi. Borrowings and interest vii. Shareholder funds b. Closely manage cash flow through forecasting, to ensure you won’t run out of cash to continue. Constant cash flow problems are probably the biggest killer of business confidence. You’re never sure if you can take advantage of opportunities. You may not know of a looming cash flow problem and take actions that make it worse, such as spending cash on items that aren’t in the budget or could have been leased or hired.
3. Time Management, because time is money. If you aren’t doing things in the most efficient way, this can have a big impact on all aspects of business. This includes having the right people doing the right things. Particularly business owners who find themselves doing loads of stuff they probably shouldn’t be. The ‘opportunity cost’ of a business owner’s time is a big consideration here. i.e. what else could you be doing with the time you are spending on low value work e.g. bookkeeping instead of speaking with customers and staff to improve things. Some people will say “but I enjoy the bookkeeping” or “I prefer to do it myself so I know it’s right”. If this is the case it’s vital to have someone else to do jobs like sales, marketing and HR management. Systems are the best solution to time management issues. They create an environment where others can perform tasks in a way that they can see and understand, rather than having to be ‘micro managed’. Systems help to eliminate mistakes and allow for constant improvement. Now is the easiest time ever to implement cost effective systems into just about any business, due to ‘cloud commerce’ delivery. If your competitor has systems and you don’t, you can
guarantee they are able to deliver more cost effectively and efficiently. 4. Growth Opportunities and being able to take advantage of them is vital if you want to build a business that is worth something now and in the future. Many business owners have aspirations to grow a business, but fail to get the basics right, such as ensuring it’s profitable, has good cash flow and systems to cope with growth. Trying to grow a business that is unstable and not systemised is doomed to failure. 5. Exit Options, whilst they may seem a long way off to younger business owners, are worth considering well before exit date. Depending on how you want to exit your business, you will need to consider if it’s able to be handed over to others to run. 6. Irrespective of whether you sell or hand a business over to a successor, you will need to get the knowledge out of your head and into a system. Businesses that aren’t systemised are generally worth less than those that are. Purchasers will perform ‘Due Diligence’, which is an investigation into a business prior to buying. They will look into all aspects of the business to ensure it is a good investment and the business has a solid future and financial footing. One of the biggest issues affecting a business value is the ability of the owner to eventually ‘walk away’ and this is impacted by systems that can be implemented by a new owner. To learn more about improving your business, download the 7 Key Numbers eBook at http://info. cfooncall.com.au/7k-numbers-ebook CFO On-Call is a team of Financial and Business Advisors, who work with open-minded people committed to business growth and achieving success. For a no obligation FREE chat about your profit growth opportunities please call us on 1300 36 24 36 or visit www.CFOonCall.com.au
Honda Genuine Plus A Trade Loyalty Program presented by Honda honda.com.au/hgp
Genuinely Rewarding YOU With $50,000 worth of Prizes PLUS Great Monthly Giveaways 10 x $500 Coles Group and Myer Gift Cards Each Month
Win Incredible Prizes! At the end of the 6-month period all eligible entries will go into the major prize draw for: 1st Prize – 2015 Honda HR-V VTi-S 2nd Prize – 2015 Honda CBR1000RR 3rd Prize – Saeco Xelsis Coffee Machine 4th Prize – Samsung Series 9 65 inch Curved UHD TV 5th Prize – BOSE Cinemate 130 Home Theatre System
Visit honda.com.au/hgp to discover how simple it is! Entry to the Competition constitutes acceptance of the Terms & Conditions. The promoter is Honda Australia Pty Ltd, ABN 66 004 759 611, of 95 Sharps Rd Tullamarine VIC 3043. Telephone: (03) 9285 5555. Competition opens at 9am 1/05/2015 and closes at 5:00pm on 31/10/2015. Entry is restricted to registered trade customers who purchase Honda Genuine Parts from authorised Honda dealers in Australia.Entry is based on the purchase values (ex-GST) of Honda Genuine Parts which will be accumulated within 1-month period (in May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct 2015) for the monthly prize draws and within 6-month period (between May and Oct 2015) for the major prize draw. The major prize draw will be at 2:00pm on 25/11/2015 at 95 Sharps Rd, Tullamarine VIC 3043 Australia. Winners published on www.honda.com.au/hgp.10 monthly winners each receive a $500 Coles Myer Gift Card. See T&C’s for dates. Major Prizes 2015 1 x Honda HR-V VTi-S Metallic $31,766.00 1 x 2015 Honda CBR1000RR $15,899.00 1 x Samsung Series 9 65 inch curved UHD TV $3,289.00 1 x Saeco Xelsis Coffee Machine $2,198.90 1 x BOSE Cinemate 130 home theatre system $1,499.00. Monthly Prizes - 60 gift cards ($500 each) with a total value of $30,000.00 Total Prize Pool Value $84,651.90 Full T&C’s available from the Promoter or www.honda.com.au/hgp
HP1554/MTQ
Authorised under permit numbers: VIC Permit Number 15/760, SA Licence Number T15/582, NSW Permit Number LTPS/15/03050, ACT Permit NumberTP 15/05503
M
ER
A SUP A T
The industry super fund for the automotive industry
Low fees*. Run only to benefit members. A range of investment options Award winning industry leadership SECURE, ONE TRANSACTION CLEARING HOUSE Manage employee super contributions to multiple funds
$
FIND YOUR LOST SUPER We’ll help you consolidate and boost your super balance
SUPER ON THE GO Check your balance and investment choices
mtaasuper.com.au Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) is the Trustee of MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). You should consider whether or not MTAA Super is appropriate for you. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) can be obtained by calling us on 1300 362 415. You should consider the PDS in making a decision. The MTAA Super clearing house service is provided by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 (“Westpac”) at the request of MTAA Super. You should consider the terms and conditions in the Product Disclosure Statement in deciding whether to use the MTAA Super Clearing House, which is available from https://clearinghouse.mtaasuper.com.au/ApplicationIntroductionView. * All fees are below the Industry Average and received a “Leading” trend assessment. Source: 2015 SuperRatings Benchmark Report