motor trader
motor trader queensland | vol. 83 | issue 9 | October 2012
Managing margins Self-drive technology Cloud computing Aftermarket exports
Annual Report edition
Auto industry advisers
Stationery for the automotive industry gue o l a t a ct C Produ
• General Office Stationery Supplies • Motor Vehicle Sales Stationery • Job/Time Cards • Service Station Supplies • Signage • Approved Inspection Station Signage and Decals • Accessories • MTA Queensland Member Signage • Technical Publications Our Stationery Catalogue is available online at www.mtaq.com.au Telephone: 07 3237 8777 Toll free 1800 177 951
Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland
contents
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
2. From the editor
Editor
Michael Taylor
Features
Art Director
8. Australian export opportunity:
4. Policy/Viewpoint 6. Industrial Relations Members
Marco Ilinic
Indonesian automotive
Industrial Relations
aftermarket
Ted Kowalski Michelle Chadburn
14. Volvo delves in to self-driving vehicle technologies
Policy
Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland
Advertising Enquiries
Jeff Dunlop Mobile: 0422 075 007 Facsimile: 07 3844 4488 Email: jeffd@mtaq.com.au
Editorial
Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement. For more information telephone the Editor 07 3237 8777
Subscription Rates (including GST) Australia: $72.60 annually Overseas: $110 annually Motor Trader Publishing Policy Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland. The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material. MTA Queensland ABN: 74 028 933 848
Corporate Partners
Cloud computing can provide a serious competitive advantage. Increasingly, businesses have teams on the road, in the office and working at home, p. 16
16. Cloud control: rising expectations of revenues 24. Managing margins to increase your profits
Industry Update 10. Ag Show celebrates 20 years 11. Tristin pays it forward
Electric bike to feature at Motorcycle Expo
12. The Bonnie O’Neill Appeal 13. 1936 MG Airline Coupe on show
Paperless logbooking
Automobile News 20. Citroën DS5
Mercedes-Benz SL
Lotus Elise S
21. Ferrari: Poulter style
Toyota RAV4
ZERO’D
The annual PPG National Colour Matching Competition gives apprentices from around the country the opportunity to test their colour matching skills against their fellow students, p. 22
MIT News 22. Jamie McGrogan wins colour-matching competition 23. Advisers promote auto industry as career choice
MIT student awarded trainee of the year
Health 26. How to get a good night's sleep
Sport 30. Coffs rally a tune up for 2013 WRC 31. Pizza Hut backs driver for Bathurst 32. Volvo sponsors Oz Golf Open
Ferrari gathering at Silverstone
20120027
sets record
As official car partner of the Emirates’ Australian Open Golf Tournament, Volvo Car Australia has launched its second year of partnership with a unique opportunity, p. 32
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from the editor
W
elcome to the Annual Report edition of Motor Trader, which is one-stapled in to the centre of the magazine and can be pulled out as a separate document. The Annual Report covers MTA Queensland over the 2011-2012 financial year and will give you a good overview of what has been going on with our Association.
Michael Taylor, Editor
There is a lot going on thus far in this financial year, what with new people brought on board to strengthen the MTAQ brand (Public Affairs Manager – Dani Fioretti, page 5) and broaden the awareness amongst young Queenslanders that the automotive trade is an excellent option, given the dynamic advances in technology (and subsequent opportunities) that are sweeping through the industry (Industry Advisers – James McNeil, Neville Murray and Mark Reynolds, page 23). Also in this edition both Kellie Dewar (page 4) and Ted Kowalski (page 6) touch on the topic of fuel theft – as in ‘drive offs’ – that have doubled in the past year. It’s a terrible burden
Jamie McGrogan won the MIT leg of the annual PPG National Colour Matching Competition that was held here at MIT in September (page 22). for service stations to bear and hopefully a solution will surface in the near future.
Jamie McGrogan won the MIT leg of the annual PPG National Colour Matching Competition that was held here at MIT in September (page 22). Jamie was up against four other top-notch students however she came out on top and won a SATAjet 4000 Digital Spray gun and the opportunity to compete at the national competition.
Katie Gould (MTAQ Member Services) told us about a little girl named Bonnie O’Neill who is in desperate need of help as she suffers from a rare form of cancer known as Ewing’s Sarcoma (page 12). Any contribution towards the raising of funds to get her to Germany for treatment would be greatly appreciated by her friends and family.
How have you been sleeping lately? Have a read of the article that starts on page 26 to get some tips on how to improve your life through the night if you are tossing and turning and feeling ragged the following day. Ernest Hemmingway said, “I love sleep. My life has the tendency to fall apart when I’m awake, you know?”
we come to you! In getting someone to be a qualified automotive tradesperson, MTA Institute of Technology brings innovation and inspiration to every learner through training excellence. • Government funded, on site, one on one training • Employer and Apprentice incentives • Coaching and mentoring with up to date automotive training resources • Available to school-based apprentices • Trade recognition for current mechanics • Air condition licensing
success through excellence
Free call 1800 884 137 INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
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motor trader queensland
The indusTry super fund for The auTomoTive indusTry.
www.mtaasuper.com.au motor Trades association of australia superannuation fund pty Ltd (aBn 14 008 650 628, afsL 238 718) is the Trustee of mTaa superannuation fund (aBn 74 559 365 913). you should consider whether or not mTaa super is appropriate for you. The mTaa super product disclosure statement (pds) can be obtained by calling us on 1300 362 415. you should consider the pds in making a decision.
policy/viewpoint
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day of special significance will be the official opening of our new MTA Queensland and MTA Institute of Technology headquarters on Saturday, October 13th. The Board has decided to name it the “Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence”. The name recognises Sir Jack’s long contribution to the automotive trades and reflects the state-of-art complex from which bestpractice training will be delivered. The centre will be opened by the Premier of Queensland, the Hon. Campbell Newman MP in the presence of Sir Jack and guests. Members can take pride in the Centre; it has been built as a result of careful financial and architectural planning and management by Board Members and staff over
several years. The building stands as a testament to the journey from our humble beginnings in 1929. Our organisation has since evolved through immense technological changes in the automotive value chain to become a positive and progressive industry organisation with confidence in its future and its ability to deliver for members. The MTA Institute of Technology is Queensland’s leading automotive training entity. It will facilitate the training of over 2000 automotive apprentices and trainees every year. Of these trainees, more than 90 per cent will be employed. Importantly, approximately 3500 affiliated training clients
motor trader queensland
and/or members comprising automotive enterprises across Queensland will have access to the facility for training and industry seminars. This will provide them with opportunities for up skilling in the latest technologies. A concerning issue that has occupied me and all of our Service Station & Convenience Store Members has been the issue of fuel theft. According to the latest Police statistics there were about 12,000 petrol driveoffs across Queensland in the 2011-12 financial year - up from 6000 the year before. There has been significant media interest in this issue and I have recently done several interviews on
behalf of our members on the subject. The propensity of ‘driveoffs’ is a worrying trend impacting on safety and the financial and human resources of service station operators. There have been discussions that pre-payment at the bowser may be a solution. This is not MTAQ’s preferred option as it will slow transaction times, stifle in-store sales and will be costly to implement due to the need to install the necessary pre-payment machine/s. A national petrol drive-off register of suspicious vehicles has been launched in an attempt to track petrol thieves. Speaking of fuel, I recently came across a speech
A national petrol drive-off register of suspicious vehicles has been launched in an attempt to track petrol thieves.
The incidence of fuel theft petrol drive-off’s has doubled in the past year.
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Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland
by the Chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), Rod Sims. In this speech he gave an insight into the investigations the ACCC is currently conducting. He said that the petrol and supermarket sectors were one of the “highly concentrated sectors” that had to be “watched carefully to ensure the obvious market power is not misused to prevent or damage competition”. He indicated that the ACCC had three examinations in progress. They are: • investigating the sharing of information about prices in the fuel retailing sector; • examining the longer term competition implication of the large shopper docket discounts provided between the fuel and supermarket sectors in particular; and • focusing on issues relating to the treatment of suppliers by the major
New motor vehicle sales continue to bring good results after a period of decline related to global economic turmoil. supermarket chains which include misuse of market power competition issues as well as allegations of unconscionable conduct, business-to-business. The Chairman stressed that assessments on to these matters were complex; involving extensive evidence gathering followed by much legal and economic analysis. As a result, they will take some time to complete. As I have mentioned in previous columns, some of our Service Station Members are providing data to the ACCC to assist with the ACCC’s shopper-docket analysis. As the peak body for Queensland’s automotive value chain, we have, for many years, tried to be included in the State Budget lock-up for the special pre-budget briefings by
the Premier and Treasurer. I was pleased that MTA Queensland was again invited this year for the 201213 State Budget pre-budget briefings held on September 11th 2012. Dani Fioretti, in her new role as Public Affairs Manager, attended and provided me with an assessment of the changes impacting MTAQ and its members. In regards to QFleet, a revised operating model will be implemented in 2012-13 to enhance savings, efficiency and accountability including: • a reduction of 10% of the fleet across the sector; • an aggregation of the sector’s pool vehicles and removal of underutilised vehicles; • establishing of longer term leasing arrangements
• and streamlining QFleet service delivery; and • a staged closure of the QFleet Zillmere workshop. Finally, new motor vehicle sales continue to bring good results after a period of decline related to global economic turmoil. The month of August 2012 continued the upward trend with 19,791 sales recorded. This was an increase of 1,493 or 8.2% over July 2012 figures. Yearto-date, new motor vehicle sales were 155,360. This represents an 11.3% increase on the 139,601 vehicles sold at the same time last year. We will be watching closely to see if the Reserve Bank lowers the cash rate at its October meeting. A reduction in the cash rate would be helpful for the automotive sectors as well as the wider economy and consumers.
Diploma of Management Course Objective: This qualification provides the skills and knowledge required to perform effectively as a manager, team leader or workshop manager. It will develop your skill base and knowledge and create a greater awareness of management practices.
Units of Competence • Manage quality customer service • Manage budgets and financial plans • Manage an information or knowledge management system • Develop a workplace learning environment • Manage people performance • Manage operational plan • Ensure team effectiveness • Manage personal work priorities and professional development
Fees and Charges The Australian Government is providing $3000 to the employer/business for each eligible employee to do the Diploma of Management BSB 51107 offered by MTA Institute of Technology. The course cost is $3500. The course fees are in no way related to the Australian Government incentives available to eligible individuals.
Delivery The course is delivered over a 20 week period consisting of one evening each week, supported by assignments to reinforce theoretical knowledge. Skills will be taught and practised in your workplace where learning will be placed into context. Alternatively it can be done under simulation at our facility. The Diploma of Management is also available via distance learning over a 26 week period.
Enrol
Should you wish to enrol in the above course please contact one of our friendly team using the contact details below.
MTA Institute of Technology 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
INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLO G Y
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industrial relations
Ted Kowalski, Industrial Relations Manager
Proposed changes to Public Holidays for 2013
The current Labour Day holiday in May is to be moved to October – which will put Queensland in line with most of the other States that also have their Labour Day in October.
T Service Station drive-offs – who pays?
T
he practice of motorists driving off without paying for their fuel purchase has always been a problem for service stations. Unfortunately, the incidence of this behaviour has risen dramatically with the current near records level of fuel prices and tough economic times. Media reports have indicated that some operators are demanding that their console operators bear the cost of these driveoffs. While we have great sympathy for the operators who suffer significant losses each time one of these drive-offs occur, we cannot sanction any attempt to
Media reports have indicated that some operators are demanding that their console operators bear the cost of these drive-offs.
he State government has foreshadowed some changes to the Public Holidays for 2013. The extra day we had this year for the Queen’s Birthday (on 1st October) is to be dropped for next year and we will go back to having the Queen’s birthday celebration in June. In addition, the current Labour Day holiday in May is to be moved to October – which will put Queensland in line
with most of the other States that also have their Labour Day in October. It should be noted that these proposed changes have not yet been gazetted, but, when they are, we will issue a bulletin confirming all the Public Holidays for 2013.
have staff make up the loss. Operators should have clear written instructions for staff who witness a drive-off, and, if those instructions are not followed, then disciplinary action should follow. This could include dismissal - if the process meets the requirement of the Fair Work legislation which states that, prior to any dismissal for unacceptable performance taking place, the employee must know that their job is in jeopardy.
members MTA Queensland welcomes the following new members Business Name
Principal/s
Address/Email
Huston Motors
Mark & Margaret Huston
Lot 8, Unit 1 John Lund Drive, HOPE ISLAND QLD 4212 admin@hustonmotors.com.au
MAC Clan Services
Trudy McKee
Cnr David Drive & Bruce Hwy, CURRA QLD 4570 macclan4@bigpond.com
Southeast QLD Truck & Ag
Daryl Rodgers
32 Telemon Street BEAUDESERT QLD 4285 daryl@dmcontracting.net.au
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motor trader queensland
Division AADA SSCSAQ AED
give yourself an
advantage
- a well-known identifiable brand that signifies trust The MTA Queensland logo provides an element of differentiation between you and other businesses and may just form the key point of difference for a potential customer.
• Industrial Relations As a member of MTA Queensland you have access to industry specific-industrial relations expertise for advice and legal representation
MTA Queensland actively lobbies Governments with the best interest of our members to reduce red tape and streamline process for business owners.
• Consumer Complaints MTA Queensland will assist member businesses and mediate in the event of a consumer complaint.
Being a Member gives you input in the future productivity and profitability of your industry and the opportunity to positively influence it’s future through divisional and regional committees.
• Legal Advice Members can access professional legal assistance as part of their membership of MTA Queensland – intial phone advise free
One Stop Industry Advice
• Industry Awareness Members receive regular industry specific publications keeping you abreast of changes, legislative requirements, developments and initiatives in your industry.
• Technical Information Service Ever had the situation of working on a vehicle which you don’t usually work on? You don’t need a vast technical library – all you need is MTA Queensland membership to get all the technical resources you need.
Motor Trader, the official publication of MTA Queensland is issued monthly as part of your membership.
MeMbers cAn receive A subsTAnTiAl sAvings And efficiencies viA our corporATe pArTners The capricorn society is the largest independent automotive parts buying cooperative in Australia. The Society is based on group purchasing to secure price advantage.
dun and bradstreet is the nation’s foremost credit control and debt collection agency, with an enviable record of service to the recoverables industry. Members are eligible for substantial savings on annual subscriptions.
The commonwealth bank offers members some of the lowest eftpos charges in the country. Savings in the thousands of dollars have been achieved by members who opted for the CBA deal.
MTAA superannuation, our superannuation partner has over 200,000 members who are enjoying excellent returns from the Fund.
corporate express is the leading supplier of a complete range of office consumables, bulk stationery and janitorial supplies.
nrMA insurance has vast experience in the provision of a superior level of specialist insurance services to the automotive industry, using the buying potential of the member base, can achieve pricing far more attractive than business owners are able to negotiate individually.
MTA Queensland, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road Eight Mile Plains Qld 4113 07 3237 8777 enquires@mtaq.com.au www.mtaq.com.au
Pioneering market research by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) on the automotive aftermarket in Indonesia has identified export opportunities for Australian companies.
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ustralia's northern neighbour has the fifteenth largest economy in the world with a gross domestic product expanding 6%+ annually and a growing middle class. These economic trends are expected to drive an increase in car sales of up to 50% in Indonesia in the next five years. The AAAA was commissioned by the Victorian Government Department of Business and Innovation to undertake the research to accurately gauge the potential of the Indonesian automotive aftermarket for Australian supplied products and services. The project was assisted by the Austrade Jakarta office. AAAA Senior Manager Government Relations and International Ben Bartlett
said the Indonesian automotive aftermarket is growing rapidly and still evolving.
market for aftermarket accessories, parts and repair and maintenance products and services.
"Indonesia is home to 245 million people and the car parc is about 11.25 million vehicles,” Mr. Bartlett said.
"In addition, the high percentage of the population under 35 years old will ensure keen demand for aftermarket parts and accessories to differentiate for their vehicles," he added.
“This is about 32 vehicles per 1,000 citizens, which is significantly lower than some near neighbours, such as Thailand (123), Malaysia (300) and Australia (700). "While new car sales are approaching one million a year, there is still strong incentive to keep older vehicles serviceable and on the road. “Transport hungry middle class Indonesian families are a growing
4 Wheel Drive product demand The AAAA research revealed that the Indonesian car parc is diverse, but the two main vehicle categories are: • Multi Purpose Vehicles (MPVs) for families and small businesses in urban areas. The products most in demand included in-car entertainment, wheels, window
Australian export opp
Indonesian automotive aft
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tinting, cleaning and polishing products and oils and lubricants. • 4 Wheel Drive (4WD) and Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) - vehicles used extensively in rural Indonesia's agriculture and mining industries. Among the popular products are suspension components, differential lockers, undercar protection and winches. "With ample accessible terrain available, there is also a strong off road driving culture. There are 4WD clubs in most towns. This combined business and leisure use of 4WD vehicles make this segment the most dynamic across the wider aftermarket," Mr. Bartlett explained.
Industry structure AAAA research, which included interviews with Australian manufacturers that are already successful exporters, and Indonesian businesses, found that this market
portunity:
termarket
AAAA research identified a range of opportunities for Australian aftermarket companies. Immediate business exists in the 4WD segment, particularly servicing the agricultural and mining industries. is very price sensitive. Thus the high Australian dollar may challenge would-be exporters. On average, the Indonesian government imposes a 30% tariff on aftermarket imports. Goods shipped through Singapore may avoid this impost. Mr. Bartlett said the automotive products distribution chain in Indonesia is fragmented and still evolving. "Most product moves through small independently owned retail outlets operating in 'localisation areas' - there are very few franchised operations," he said. "To reach the estimated 12,000 retailers, Australian suppliers should work though distributors and wholesalers, which operate mainly within specific geographic regions.
“For example, the 2011 INAPA exhibition in Jakarta, one of the largest in South East Asia, attracted more than 600 exhibitors from 21 countries and 37,100 trade visitors," Mr. Bartlett said.
Capitalising on opportunity The AAAA research identified a range of opportunities for Australian aftermarket companies. Immediate business exists in the 4WD segment, particularly servicing the agricultural and mining industries. There will also be good opportunities in the retail and repair and service sectors in coming years as these markets continue to develop.
“Our research found that it would be best to have a major distributor on each of the five main islands of Indonesia.
"The next steps in opening the Indonesian market to Australian automotive aftermarket suppliers include seeking government support for in-market trade and inward buyer missions linked to major events in Australia, such as the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix," said Mr. Bartlett.
"Vehicle service and repair operators range from those doing basic repairs on the roadside to others working under cover with access to more tools and equipment.
"Based on the positive findings in this report, the Victorian Government is considering initiating an export mission to Indonesia, should there be sufficient interest.
“Supply of replacement parts to these operators is currently challenging.
“At this early stage, it is suggested that the mission would run for 4-5 days during November 2012. For more information - and to express your interest in this mission - please visit Indonesia Export Mission.
"This immature retail and service repair sector also offers great opportunities to Australian chains skilled at establishing and developing outlets. “It is expected that a few major players will emerge in this sector in the next couple of years. “Interested Australian companies should carefully monitor the Indonesian retail and repair sectors to seek out partnership opportunities for the franchising business models that will come with time. "A few key trade shows can be used to reach these distribution and service businesses.
"Australian manufactured products currently exported to Asia, Europe, Middle East and the USA include engine cooling systems, superchargers, oils and lubricants, shock absorbers, springs, suspension bushes, hoses, and 4WD parts and accessories. "Indonesia offers Australian aftermarket companies a fast growing export market close to home. There will be benefits to those companies entering the market early," Mr. Bartlett concluded. motor trader queensland
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industry update
Ag Show celebrates 20 years
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fter twenty years of running the Heritage Bank Ag Show at the Toowoomba Showgrounds, retiring CEO Peter Irwin said that in this, his final year of running the Show, it was all about the farmer.
L to R: Damian Bourke, Jason Jones, David Fraser, Rob Vandersee, Rick Cuffe.
"We've had lots of machinery and tractors for them to look at," he said.
2pm as well as cooking demonstrations from noon to 2.30pm.
"But not only that, we had a full range of solar products, tools and some technology programs."
The event included stud cattle and pig sales, Queensland's premier stud bull sales, Queensland Rail's Silver Spike heats and final, Farm Inventor of the Year awards, the open cattle dog trials, the Toowoomba and District Queensland Machinery Expo and the Rural Weekly led steer competition.
He said two pavilions at the showground were filled with 200 exhibitors and their products, which were also suitable for locals. "It's certainly was a family event," he said. Mr. Erwin said the Berghofer Pavilion showcased products of women's general interest, including designer clothes and hats. A fashion parade was held daily from 1pm to 10
motor trader queensland
Queensland’s Premier, the Hon. Campbell Newman MP attended the event and viewed some of the monstrous tractors on display and announced a new ‘genetic platform’
The grain-breeding program will be supported with $500,000 from the government as well as $11.2 million over seven years from the Grains Research and Development Corporation.
program with agriculture minister John McVeigh.
in the manufacture of food and fibre," he said.
The grain-breeding program will be supported with $500,000 from the government as well as $11.2 million over seven years from the Grains Research and Development Corporation.
More than 200 people turned up to hear Roma farmer Peter Thompson talk about coexisting with coal seam gas companies.
Mr. Newman said the program would be a big win for the state with previous grain breeding capabilities going to Western Australia. "We have a goal to double our food production by 2040 and this is another step towards fulfilling that commitment and making Queensland a world leader
He was guest speaker at the Rural Press Club's ‘Where the Bush Talks Business’ breakfast where he attracted much debate over his views. "We thought, if this is going to happen, we really need to make it work," Mr. Thompson said. "Our belief is we need energy. We need a reliable food supply, water supply and energy."
Peter Erwin said the weather played a big part in another successful event. "It appears to have gone well for many of the exhibitors," Mr. Erwin said. "There was a big rush on the retail items. "The courier service was flat-out delivering and a lot of farmers were buying the smaller items too, like the tools, generators and sprayers. "Generally speaking the weather has made it a top event again," Mr. Erwin said. The 2013 Ag Show will be event managed by the RASQ management committee in cohesion with the 3 event partner directors and the partner management committee. The Queensland Farm Machinery and Industrial Dealers Division of MTAQ hold a third partner share in Heritage Bank Ag Show, and division chairman David Fraser said the QFMIDD was proud to be a partner in such a successful long running premier field day event. “I applaud the Board and Management Committee in producing such a world class machinery show,” Mr. Fraser said. “I also wish to personally thank Peter Irwin for the dedication and commitment he has shown over the past 20 years in making the Ag Show such a successful event. “I would like to wish Peter all the best in retirement,” he concluded.
Tristin pays it forward
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ristin Condon, inspirational winner of 5km Hero Time in this year’s Bridge to Brisbane, won a car for his gallant efforts and fundraising achievements and is now donating the vehicle to a charity close to his heart, Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland. Tristin was the recipient of a brand new 2012 Suzuki SX4 after winning the title of the highest fundraiser in the Bridge to Brisbane event, reaching $22,000 for Variety Queensland and growing. The proceeds made from the sale of the new Suzuki car, valued at over $22,000 - complete with navigation, Bluetooth, 12 months registration and ready to drive away, will go directly to Variety Queensland and assist in their mission to fulfill grants for children in need. While thousands of people ran or walked on the
weekend, Tristin used his “walking sticks” designed by his grandfather to complete the 5km fun run with a personal best time and in what could be his last opportunity to cross the finish line on foot. Tristin, 31 years old, suffers from Cerebral Palsy and according to doctors should be wheelchair bound. Variety – the Children’s Charity, 18 years ago, fulfilled a wish of Tristin’s to own a laptop computer to follow his educational pursuits. “When I was 18, Variety gave me the opportunity to pursue my academic dreams, increasing my confidence
Tristin used his “walking sticks” designed by his grandfather to complete the 5km fun run with a personal best time and in what could be his last opportunity to cross the finish line on foot.
and instilling an attitude of determination, which I still carry today,” Tristin said. “It’s essential Variety can continue to assist children that may be in a situation similar to mine, so they have the opportunity to achieve whatever they set their minds on and feel supported along the way. “It is amazing how one small gesture can change a person's trajectory through life,” he said. Chief Executive Officer of Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland, Les Riley, said he is honoured Tristin has decided to donate the car as well as all his time and fundraising efforts. “We’ve known Tristin for quite some time now and he continues to assist us in the most extraordinary ways, we could not be more appreciative,” Mr. Riley said. “We’d also like to thank Suzuki Auto Co in Brisbane as well as Quicksales.com.au for their support in selling this wonderful car,” he added.
Electric bike to feature at Motorcycle Expo
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high power-to-weight ratio, zero emission output and low running costs are the hallmarks of a new brand of electric bikes set to be showcased at the Australian Motorcycle Expo Melbourne, November 23-25, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Stealth Electric Bikes, an Australian engineering company based in Melbourne, enter the market continued on page 12
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industry update between a pedal-powered pushbike and a motorcycle. A 2-hour charge will allow the flagship model, the Stealth Bomber, to travel up to 80km/h over a range of 80km, with the inbuilt regenerative battery technology able to extend this range even further by converting braking energy into electricity. The one-piece monocoque frame is constructed from aircraft-certified alloys, making it light-weight yet extremely rigid under load.
By combining the very best of human and electric propulsion systems, Stealth have built the ultimate extension of the human body.
Riders can let the 4.5kw direct-drive motor do the work or boost the bike’s performance with their own pedal power using a 9-speed sequential gear box. The Stealth range takes up no more storage space than a typical mountain bike and can be charged through any 240-volt household outlet. Nicholas Morrison said the company was eagerly anticipating its first show appearance that would take place near to its Melbourne base. “Stealth Electric Bikes have created the perfect synergy between man and machine," said Morrison. “By combining the very best of human and electric propulsion systems, Stealth have built the ultimate extension of the human body. “Whether you’re conquering concrete jungles or tearing up and down the wildest trails, a Stealth Electric Bike
is the coolest and most fun way to get you there and back again. “The Australian Motorcycle Expo Melbourne will be a landmark event for the brand, and we’re excited to make our show debut so close to where the bikes are designed and engineered,” he said. Stealth Electric Bikes will join a lineup that features all major motorcycle manufacturers as well as over 100 product, accessory and service exhibitors. Floor space at the event has now completely sold out, a positive sign for the industry and those confirming their involvement.
The Bonnie O’Neill Appeal
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TA Queensland Member Services employee, Katie Gould, has brought to our attention the plight of Bonnie O’Neill of Yamba, NSW, a young girl suffering from a rare form of bone cancer known as Ewing’s Sarcoma. Ewing's Sarcoma is a malignant small, round, blue cell tumor. It is a rare disease in which cancer cells are found in bones or soft tissue. The tumor often spreads to the lungs. Nine-year-old Bonnie has struggled with the disease for the past six years. While the long term prognosis for Bonnie in Australia is bleak, there are centres in Germany which lead the world in treating this form of cancer and Bonnie's family are now trying to raise money to get her there.
Stealth Bomber.
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Bonnie O’Neill.
Renee Fox, an organiser of the Bonnie O'Neill Appeal,
Renee Fox, an organiser of the Bonnie O'Neill Appeal, said so far they had raised about $20,000 towards a target of $100,000, through a campaign of money raising events all over the Clarence Valley. said so far they had raised about $20,000 towards a target of $100,000, through a campaign of money raising events all over the Clarence Valley. If you would like to participate in assisting with Bonnie’s hopeful eradication of this disease, please make cheques payable to ‘Bonnie O’Neill’ – or – via direct deposit ANZ Bank BSB No. 012 889, Account No. 45445 1869. Cheques should be posted to MTA Queensland, Attn: Katie Gould, PO Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains QLD 4113.
1936 MG Airline Coupe on show
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ueensland man Colin Schiller will be hoping that his exotic and rare 1936 MG will be in with the chance of being given the coveted title of 'Best in Show' at this year's RACV Motorclassica. Colin's treasured vehicle has been selected by a panel from 100’s of hopefuls to be part of this year's Australian International Concours d'Elegance at the show. Once again, almost $100 million worth of rare, collectable and desirable classic, vintage and veteran cars will descend on Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building on October 26-28, for the three day awardwinning celebration.
Affectionately known as ‘Grace’, the Airline won its class in the New England MG T Register's 'Gathering of the Faithful' event in 1975.
When Mr. Schiller browsed www.prewarcar.com.au last November he never expected to find the 1936 MG up for sale. Previously owned by famous movie producer Martin Shantz who featured the car in his documentary The Great Classic Cars, the 1936 MG is likely to be the last survivor of its type with its special Airline coupe body. Unsurprisingly, Schiller and co-owner Tony Slattery had a tough time negotiating a suitable price for the star car. Affectionately known as ‘Grace’, the Airline won its class in the New England MG T Register's 'Gathering of the Faithful' event in 1975. Despite its long life spanned across the US, Europe and now Australia, the Airline still doesn't fail to impress. Since its arrival in the country, the Airline has attended the National MG Rally in Hobart, the Victorian MG Concourse at Flemington race track and the Queensland MG Concourse at St Lucia.
Paperless logbooking
W
ith Australians racking up over 227 billion kilometres on the road each year, life for the hundreds of thousands of Australian drivers of company cars just got easier with the launch of Fleetcare's new ‘Logit’ - the first free, ATO compliant app which uniquely allows them to record and then submit fringe benefit tax (FBT) information directly to the ATO. The new eagerly awaited app alleviates the need for stressed drivers to collect paper scraps detailing their company road trips, which must then be laboriously entered into a large logbook. Logit records trips using an owner's Smartphone's GPS functionality, logs all relevant data, and publishes a log book and travel expense report in ATO compliant format. Guidelines are built into the app so users can be sure of not making any non-compliant errors for more accurate tax reporting. Conceived by Fleetcare, Australia's leading fleet management company, the easy-to-use app may be downloaded free from The App Store and Google Play. “Logit will change the way drivers record and manage their company data,” said Nigel Malcolm, CEO of Fleetcare. “Many still have glove boxes overflowing with scribbled trip details. “Now it¹s as simple as clicking start trip-end trip on their Smartphone and it¹s all done for them.
Colin Schiller with his 1936 MG.
“ATO guidelines are built into the app, so the stress of remembering and recording
With Australia recently revealed as the world’s second highest Smartphone penetration, storing data electronically and intuitively, is the optimal solution. their company trips is gone, along with the enormous margin for error, making the dreaded FBT deadline a no-brainer,” Mr. Malcolm explained. With Australia recently revealed as the world’s second highest Smartphone penetration, storing data electronically and intuitively, is the optimal solution. Other Logit features include recording of journey dates, odometer readings, kms travelled and journey purpose with intuitive recall requiring minimal re-entry; viewing and editing past trips; and the ability to add multiple vehicles and manage more than one log book. Logit also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by keeping factual records. motor trader queensland
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Volvo delves in to self-driving vehicle technologies
Entering the field of autonomous driving – self-driving vehicles – is the next giant leap in Volvo Car Corporation's development of the world's safest cars.
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utonomous driving paves the way for more freedom behind the wheel. It creates the possibility to safely do something else, such as sending text messages or reading a book while the car is driven autonomously. The first focus areas in Volvo Car Corporation's technology development are autonomous driving in slow-moving queues and, longer term, road trains on motorways. "Our aim is to gain leadership in the field of autonomous driving by moving beyond concepts and pioneering technologies that will reach the customers,” said Marcus Rothoff, Product Attribute Manager, Driver Assistance at Volvo Car Corporation. “Making these features reliable enough to use on public roads is crucial to boosting customer confidence in self-driving cars," he said.
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Autonomous driving – with steering, acceleration and/or braking automatically controlled by a vehicle that requires very little human interaction – is already highly present in the modern transport society. "Hardly anyone thinks twice about being in an airplane that flies on autopilot,” said Mr. Rothoff. “But being in a car that drives by itself while the driver reads a book is still quite a revolutionary thought for many people," he added.
Positive customer feedback Of course Volvo Car Corporation's firm focus on designing cars around people includes investigating the consumer attitude towards self-driving cars. Recent studies show that almost half of the respondents would be comfortable using a self-driving car
(Accenture 2011). Almost 50 percent of driver’s aged 18-37 would definitely or probably buy a vehicle capable of fully autonomous driving (JD Power 2012). In 2011, Volvo Car Corporation invited a number of premium car owners to evaluate future driver support technologies at the company's test track. One of the German guests said that what was demonstrated was a "perfect support for driving on the Autobahn - If anything is going to encourage me to text in my car, it is this”. One of the research conclusions is that younger consumers in particular are willing to pay for technology that can help manage distractions created by the urge to be constantly connected in the car too. Autonomous driving would create the desired possibility to safely send text messages, update Facebook status or read a book while driving.
A necessity to attract young buyers The necessity for a successful carmaker to please the next generation of consumers was the main topic for Volvo Car Corporation President and CEO Stefan Jacoby's presentation at the 2012 Automotive News Europe Conference in Monaco. He said that teenagers look at cars with different, less traditional eyes than their parents do. “When we regard the driver's seat as a symbol for freedom and mobility, they see the only place where they can't be constantly connected,” Mr. Jacoby said. “And many of them think that this constant connectivity is more important than having a driver's license and a car. "This view is an exciting challenge for Volvo Car Corporation. “We must design intelligent cars that take over the driving while you focus on something else, such as sending a text or communicating on Facebook. "Personally, I am convinced that the majority of tomorrow's car owners will not even dream of buying a car without autonomous driving possibilities," he added.
Several other advantages The possibility for a driver to focus on something other than driving offers a number of other advantages as well: • There is a potential for zero accidents and injuries during autonomous driving • Autonomous driving can cut fuel consumption by up to 50 percent in certain situations
Autonomous driving can cut fuel consumption by up to 50 percent in certain situations. “Now, we are moving towards technologies with a higher degree of autonomous driving in normal traffic situations," he explained.
Autonomous driving in traffic queues One of several ongoing autonomous driving projects at Volvo Car Corporation is a support system that automatically follows the vehicle in front in slow-moving queues. Mr. Rothoff said that this has considerable scope for making the driver's life easier. “Our first generation of this advanced technology focuses on driving in queues at low speeds,” he said. “The car follows the vehicle in front in the same lane. “However, it is always the driver who is in charge - he or she can take back control of the car at any time," he added.
• It also has the potential for shortening travel times by improving traffic flow
Join the road train on motorways
"Allowing the car to act automatically is crucial when moving toward the vision that future cars will not crash at all,” said Volvo’s Product Attribute Manager, Marcus Rothoff.
The European SARTRE (Safe Road Trains for the Environment) project has focused on the attractive possibility of taking your hands off the wheel and your eyes off the road in your own car on long motorway trips.
“Our present systems for auto braking, lane keeping, aid and adaptive cruise control could be described as the first steps towards autonomous driving.
Volvo Car Corporation is the only participating car manufacturer in the project, which has been successfully completed in 2012.
The SARTRE platoon included a lead truck followed by four vehicles driven autonomously at speeds of up to 90km/h – in some cases with no more than a four-metre gap between the vehicles. Erik Coelingh, Technical Specialist at Volvo Car Corporation, said the road train is the better of two worlds. “You can enjoy all the multi-tasking possibilities of public transportation behind the wheel of your own car," he said.
The self-parking car Volvo Car Corporation also evaluates other autonomous driving possibilities: how about walking away from your car at the entrance to an airport parking lot and letting it find a vacant spot by itself? Or maybe you would enjoy a fully automated drive in an enclosed area such as a safari park – allowing you to focus on getting great snapshots of the lions instead of driving? "The successful implementation of autonomous driving in enclosed areas or on public roads requires partnerships with other stakeholders,” said Mr. Rothoff. “Certain legal issues must also be resolved but we are convinced that autonomous driving will take car driving into a whole new dimension. “And we intend to lead the way when it comes to bringing these new technologies beyond concepts, all the way to the customers," he concluded. motor trader queensland
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New SME (small to medium enterprises) research from MYOB has revealed small and medium businesses using the cloud are much more likely to experience positive financial and operational results. They are also more likely to expect such results in future.
Cloud control:
rising expectatio C
loud computing is the use of computing resources (hardware and software) that are delivered as a service over a network (typically the Internet). The name comes from the use of a cloud-shaped symbol as an abstraction for the complex infrastructure it contains in system diagrams. Cloud computing entrusts remote services with a user's data, software and computation. One key finding was that those using cloud technologies for business were 53% more likely to see a revenue rise in the past year, indicating the rewards are waiting for those who are ready to embrace cloud computing. MYOB, which offers the MYOB Live suite of cloud solutions, commissioned independent market research firm Colmar Brunton to conduct a nationally representative survey of 1,000+ SMEs. Only 14% said they used the cloud for business. 79% said they did not use it and 8% did not know.
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Respondents’ gap in understanding of the cloud-computing concept brings into question whether their sector’s information needs are aligned with the technology industry’s educational desires. MYOB CEO Tim Reed says, “Despite the technology industry’s best efforts to teach others about the concept of cloud computing, our research shows a disconnect between SME cloud usage and their understanding of it. I question whether we need to rethink our educational direction when encouraging their move to the cloud. “Four in five say they don’t use the cloud for business. This is surprising given the prolific use of Internet banking and email, to give straightforward examples. Many more business operators leverage cloud technology than give themselves credit for, they just don’t realise.” “The key to encouraging mass adoption of newer and more advanced cloud products and services is to advocate
the productivity and financial benefits to a much greater extent than the technology behind it. Put simply, the cloud is already changing business for the better – it has been doing so for years – and is now providing access to even more powerful business tools that improve the way we work. “It is really encouraging to see our research uncover the significant business performance results of those using cloud technologies in business. The mobility, flexibility and scalability benefits are life changing for some people. “Technology innovators and early adopters already get it; but cloud solutions are now ready for the mass market. Our clients and partners, many of whom already use cloud solutions, often tell me their main concern is how a technology will help them be more competitive and help make business life easier. I liken it to smartphones. Do most people care about how they work, or do they care about the business benefits a smartphone brings?”
ons of revenues Financial benefits of cloud usage Mr. Reed says, “The advantages of using cloud computing for business came through loud and clear in MYOB’s research. We found those doing so were 53% more likely to see a revenue rise last year. 26% of respondents who said they were using the cloud saw a revenue rise, compared to 17% of those who said they were not using it.” There were numerous financial and operational result wins for cloud users. They were also more likely to: • Have more sales/work than usual in their 3-month pipeline: 55% versus 25% of those not using the cloud • Intend to grow their number/range of products or services in the next year: 48% versus 24% • Expect their revenue to rise in the next year: 44% versus 26% • Intend to increase their prices and margins on products/services sold this year: 37% versus 25%
Cloud usage can provide a serious competitive advantage. Increasingly, businesses have teams on the road, in the office and working at home. • Intend to increase staff numbers this year: 35% versus 15% • Expect the economy to improve within 12 months: 34% versus 18% • Record revenue increases in the last 12 months: 26% versus 17%.
Key draw cards of the cloud The most popular reason for respondents using cloud computing was the ability to access data from whatever location they wanted (42%) followed by being able to have their team members work remotely (28%). 26% said a major reason for their cloud usage was to reduce the number/range of IT issues they have to deal with personally, while 23% also said they used it because their data was better protected and safer online on external servers.
Mr. Reed asserts, “Cloud usage can provide a serious competitive advantage. Increasingly, businesses have teams on the road, in the office and working at home. The power of the cloud provides the freedom to work anywhere at any time, to be with your customers, partners and suppliers while still enjoying a connection to the office.” “Plus, the secure gateway offered by trustworthy cloud providers means you can authorise others to access your business data as you access it. This eliminates the need to transmit data in physical forms to, say, your accountant or book keeper via CD, USB, email and other less secure means.” continued on page 18
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Key barriers to cloud usage SMEs not using cloud computing for business were asked why not, uncovering these top five mental hurdles: 1. 27% said they did not know enough about the issues to make the right decision 2. 26% were unsure of the safety in storing their data in servers overseas 3. 22% said it is of interest, but there are more important other business priorities to take care of first 4. 21% were unsure their data would be as secure on servers other than their own 5. 7% said they were not tech-savvy enough to feel confident to even start looking at the issue. Mr. Reed said, “Next generation cloud technology - cloud-enabled software can make it easier for SMEs to embrace the cloud. It not only enables you to access your business data online, you can access the same file offline because the cloud and local files are synced. You get the benefits of cloud with that of a desktop application - the best of both worlds. And with a product like AccountRight Live, where we’re cloud-enabling our flagship accounting software, clients don’t need to learn a new system. They work with a solution they know to leverage the benefits of the cloud.”
Potential cost benefits to customers To find out whether potential cloudrelated business cost savings could flow to consumers, MYOB asked, “If you could reduce your business administration costs in any way, how likely would you be to pass on the savings to customers?” – One third (33%) said they were quite likely (27%) or very likely (6%) to pass on savings.
Businesses most likely to use cloud Across the survey’s many cross-breaks, business operators most likely to say they used cloud computing included:
On average, 80% of small and medium operators across the mainland states reported not using cloud for business. • Those running start-up businesses (23%) • Those in business, professional & property services businesses (22%) • Metropolitan-based businesses (21%) • Businesses whose revenue had increased in the last 12 months (20%) • Sole traders (15%).
Cloud computing usage across the states On average, 80% of small and medium operators across the mainland states reported not using cloud for business.
New South Wales had the highest proportion of users (15%) while Western Australia had the lowest (9%). In terms of the top drivers nationally, the ability to work on data from any location appealed to Victorians the most. Enabling staff to work remotely was most appealing in New South Wales. With the top barriers, New South Wales had the highest proportion of respondents who said they did not know enough about the issues to make the right decision and they were also the most concerned about the safety in storing data in servers overseas.
Full results across the state for cloud computing usage were: NSW
VIC
QLD
SA
WA
Yes
15%
14%
13%
11%
9%
• Generation Y (28%)
No
76%
78%
80%
81%
85%
• Businesses with a website (23%)
Don't know
9%
8%
7%
9%
5%
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motor trader queensland
I NST I T UT E OF T E CHNOL OGY
Automotive Prevocational Training Program The Queensland Government’s Strategic Investment Fund has approved MTA Institute of Technology in conjunction with Automotive Skills Queensland to deliver a prevocational model of training to assist eligible candidates into the workforce. This program is specifically designed for people who may be having some difficulty securing an apprenticeship in the automotive industry. This program will prepare candidates for employment opportunities in the automotive industry. The course will provide full time training that gives participants an introduction to the automotive trade and provide them with basic skills suitable for employment.
The Automotive Prevocational Training Program (APTRAP) This course involves inspect and service, tool equipment and service operations on various types of vehicles such as cars, trucks and vans, tractors and other machinery.
Course Objective APTRAP will be utilised as a stepping stone into the automotive trades. Successful completion of this course will greatly improve the skills base and employability of prospective apprentices and trainees to ensure that they have improved chances of securing employment through the apprenticeship pathway.
Fees and Charges The course is fully funded by the Queensland Government.
Course Length 9 weeks
Enquiries Should you wish to express interest in the APTRAP course please contact Leoni Murphy on 3722 3000 or email leonim@mtaq.com.au
Address Building 8, 2728 Logan Road Eight Mile Plains 4113 Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains QLD 4113 Tel (07) 3722 3000 Toll Free 1800 884 137 Email training@mtaq.com.au
20120001
MTA Institute of Technology
automobile news CitroĂŤn DS5 The new CitroĂŤn DS5 is the epitome of innovation with an audacious approach to design, comfort and refinement; the Power comes from a sophisticated 1.6 litre turbocharged engine developed in conjunction with BMW which produces 115 kW and 240 Nm of torque at just 1400 rpm, which, matched to an electronically controlled six speed automatic gearbox provides the DS5 with a 0-100 kmh time of 9.7 seconds and a combined fuel consumption figure of 7.3 l/100km. It is priced at $47,990 excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and delivery.
Mercedes-Benz SL The new Mercedes-Benz SL has been produced for the first time almost entirely from aluminium and weighs up to 140 kilograms less than its predecessor. Its highly rigid all-aluminium bodyshell provides the basis for agile, sporty handling that has been taken to an entirely new level, coupled with exemplary roll characteristics and ride comfort. Even better driving dynamics come courtesy of the new BlueDIRECT engines; they are more powerful yet at the same time more economical when compared to the outgoing generation.
Lotus Elise S The Lotus Elise, the epitome of a light weight, compact high performance mid-engined sports car, has received a major performance and economy boost with the arrival of a new range topping variant, the Lotus Elise S, which is now available in Australia. It can blast to 100 kmh in 4.6 seconds and, where law permits, on to 160 kmh in 10.8 seconds, while also be able to boast a 10 per cent improvement in fuel consumption with a new combined fuel figure of 7.5 l/100 km and a CO2 figure of just 180 g/km. The Elise S enters the market with a recommended retail price of $79,990 excluding statutory charges, delivery and dealer costs. 20
motor trader queensland
Ferrari: Poulter style Ferrari Tailor Made, the ultimate automotive personalization programme, has made its first delivery in North America with leading British golfer Ian Poulter taking delivery of a unique Ferrari FF that reflects his personality and design skills. Poulter, who is renowned in golf circles for his unique personal dress sense and who has his own clothing company, IJP Design, chose a triple layer paint for the exterior in ‘Sabbia’, a pearlescent white. Inside the Ferrari FF is trimmed in black Poltrona Frau Leather with highlights trimmed in the Tartan cloths that the golfer has made a personal trademark in his own fashion lines. Red highlights are also used on the dashboard and instruments. The boot is lined with carbon fibre and a unique sports fabric that also reflects golf design and style.
Toyota RAV4 Toyota has released a special edition RAV4 ‘Altitude’ with over $3,500 worth of extra-value features. It is based on the 2WD and AWD RAV4 four-cylinder CV models, with a list of nine added features: satellite navigation, five 17-inch alloy wheels, two reverse parking sonar sensors, silver roof rails, front fog lamps, rear-quarter, rear-door and rear privacy glass, and an ‘Altitude’ exterior badge. The recommended retail price for the 2WD manual Altitude is $29,990, just $1000 more than the 2WD manual CV grade on which it is based. Only 2000 of this special edition RAV4 are being built in Japan through November.
ZERO’D The world’s first elite eco-friendly custom-built muscle car - ZERO’D is being shown at the 2012 Australian International Motor Show. ZERO’D is the brainchild of Mick Fabar, owner of Green Homes Australia, whose primary goal when creating the muscle car was to achieve a zero carbon footprint, by focusing on ‘recycling’ and ‘bio technology’. The 600 horsepower, turbocharged, biodiesel, V8-powered muscle car is based on a 1967 Ford XR Falcon sedan but utilised numerous waste materials and recycled components in its construction. motor trader queensland
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MIT news Mr. Gehrke said that PPG fly Jamie to Melbourne to compete in the national competition. “Jamie will compete against other apprentices from around Australia who won their state and territory competitions,” he said. Mr. Gherke said that MIT utilizes PPG’s Deltron Solvent based paint system and the Envirobase HP Waterbourne paint system.
Jamie McGrogan wins colourmatching competition
D
espite all the latest colour tools available, the ability to colour match is still one of the most vital skills a painter can have. Indeed, colour matching is a skill set that’s very much in demand from industry employers. For well over a decade, the annual PPG National Colour Matching Competition has been promoting the essential technique of colour matching. Each year it gives apprentices from around the country the opportunity to test their colour matching skills against their fellow students. There’s also the possibility of advancing to the national final where great prizes can be won. According to PPG, there are many reasons to compete. It can be a fun way to gain valuable experience in colour matching under
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pressure – a common situation in a fast-paced, modern paint shop. It also gives all competitors extra colour theory and practice that helps build their colour matching knowledge. Five MIT (MTA Institute of Technology) trained students were selected to compete in the local leg of the competition in early September, chosen by MIT Residential Trainers Scott Gehrke and Warren Archer. “As the spray painting trainers, Warren and I discussed who would be suitable candidates when assessing tasks related to their apprenticeship training, which includes colour matching practical exercises,” said Scott Gehrke. “The competitors were not only chosen because of ability, but also work ethic, attitude etc., plus, they need to have a desire to compete,” he added. The five students - Jamie McGrogan, Emma Louise
Jamie will compete against other apprentices from around Australia who won their state and territory competitions. Berwick, Matthew Lucht, Sam Sillars and Kristy Lee Thomas – were supplied with all the equipment and tinters they needed. “They were asked to match two colours, generally, one solid and one metallic pearl in a set period of time,” said Mr. Gehrke. “As well as colour matching, contestants were also judged on safety, cleanliness and work practices,” he explained. With all scores calculated, Jamie McGrogan of McCormack’s Auto Service came away with first place, winning a SATAjet 4000 Digital Spray gun. Second spot went to EmmaLouise Berwick with Matthew Lucht taking out third place.
“PPG supports us trainers keeping by keeping us up to date with new refinish technologies, latest repair techniques and procedures within the crash repair industry,” he said. “Thatchamnet, which provides detail repair methods for damaged vehicles, is available in Australia and New Zealand via the PPG Access web site. “All this information gives us, the trainers, the knowledge and skills we need so new technologies can be forwarded to students. “On occasions, if there is a specialised product PPG technical training staff feels students should know about, they are more than happy to come to the MIT campus, or invite us to their training centre, and have a training session with students. “PPG has introduced, for apprentices only, discount pricing on some equipment like spray guns and sanders and PPE, or air-feed respiration, so they can afford to purchase correct PPE and quality spray guns with their tool allowances,” Mr. Gehrke concluded.
Advisers promote auto industry as career choice
The AMIF is a federation of the state and territory motor trades associations and automobile chambers of commerce.
TA Queensland has recently appointed three Automotive Industry Advisers to provide specific information to potential automotive apprenticeship candidates to help them make informed decisions in choosing an industry pathway.
MTA Institute of Technology Operations Manager, Paul Kulpa, said that the program was approximately a year and a half in the making.
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James McNeil, Neville Murray and Mark Reynolds will be promoting automotive careers through schools and other stakeholder affiliations over an initial 18-month program that is funded by the Commonwealth, which was negotiated by Automotive Skills Australia Ltd (ASA) and secured by the Australian Motor Industry Federation (AMIF). One of the key roles of ASA is to support skills training and employee retention in the automotive industry. It advocates to Government the need for the automotive industry to receive dedicated Commonwealth funding to support skills training and apprentice retention strategies for the industry.
“Under the Building Australia’s Future Workforce packages, ASA has a subcontracted funding agreement with the AMIF to deliver the Commonwealth’s national automotive industry adviser project,” said Mr. Kulpa. “The project supports Australian apprenticeship advisers who primarily targets school leavers.
Our new advisers James, Neville and Mark - will be in contact with schools, VET coordinators, careers counselors, apprenticeship centres, group training organisations and RTO’s.
“In addition, the adviser project also provides information and resources to potential and existing employers of apprentices to support effective recruitment. “Our new advisers - James, Neville and Mark - will be in contact with schools, VET coordinators, careers counselors, apprenticeship centres, group training organisations and RTO’s. “They will also provide direct advice to individual apprentices, participate in enterprise engagements, keep in contact with key stakeholders, liaise with the national automotive adviser network and develop information resources. “All three are qualified automotive mechanics, they have been in the industry for many years and they have vast experience in dealing with apprentices and industry education,” Mr. Kulpa concluded. James McNeil’s territory is Southeast Queensland; Neville Murray will also cover Southeast Queensland as well as Central Queensland; and Mark Reynolds will cover North and Far North Queensland.
(From left) Peter Gostelow, National Project Manager, Auto Skills Australia; with MTA Queensland Automotive Industry Advisers, Neville Murray, James McNeil and Mark Reynolds.
MIT student awarded trainee of the year
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otorcycle Mechanic Sharine Milne of R.H.D. Classic Supplies & Services in Aitkenvale (Townsville) recently won the Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year Award in the Queensland Training Awards.
Since completing her studies, she is employed as the workshop manager of R.H.D. Classic Supplies. Sharine works in the male dominated world of motorcycle mechanics. Having already completed an automotive apprenticeship in 2007, Sharine undertook MIT’s Diploma of Management course to really understand how a business should run. Since completing her studies, she is employed as the workshop manager of R.H.D. Classic Supplies — a personal goal of hers. As the mother of a teenage daughter, she is already a leader and a role model, illustrating that anything is possible for women in the workplace as long as they have a dream. Well done, Sharine! motor trader queensland
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Managing margins
to increase your profits Sue Hirst – CAD Partners CFO On-Call
Today I’m sharing some insights into better business management with the managing director of Business Building Mentors, Tim Stokes.
T
im’s company offers a unique management training program called ‘Business Freedom Workshop Series’. I recently interviewed Tim and here’s the conversation: Sue: Tim, I’ve attended a business and management training night and listened to your audio CD. You have some unique philosophies about business management, can you expand on them? Tim: My experience has taught me management is about making business run smoothly, increasing margins and giving business owners a better quality of life with both time and money. With that in mind, there are three subjects to learn and master in management, which are people, measuring and systems. When you learn and synergise all three, fantastic outcomes are achieved.
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motor trader queensland
I see measuring being like a three legged stool. The business is balancing on the three legs and each leg represents a dollar value and an area of business being measured. Sue: Tim I love the subject of measuring, so can you talk a bit about that? Tim: I see measuring being like a three legged stool. The business is balancing on the three legs and each leg represents a dollar value and an area of business being measured. In business you need to generate sales, so that’s one leg, you need to perform the outcome of the sale, let’s call that production and you need to be paid, let’s call that finance, or cash flow.
If a business were turning over $1Million, then the legs, which ideally should be measured weekly, would be $20,000 each. When legs aren’t equal for a period of time, this can cause issues and stress for the business owner. Sue: So why weekly and not monthly, when it comes to measuring the three legs? Tim: The challenge in the majority of businesses is that there’s a lot of activity
as far as winning sales, answering enquiries, doing the work and chasing money. A month is too long to review the outcomes of these activities. If sales income was down 20%, or enquiries were down 20%, then we need to do something about it after 1 to 2 weeks, not wait a month. When businesses are only measuring finances monthly, changes here could be seen months after sales have dropped and it’s often too late to react to the needs of the business, hence why we need to measure the dollar activity weekly in all three legs. Sue: That’s interesting, so what else do you measure with the three legged stool? Tim: The Gross Margins for production and finance are very important and where you see what makes you profit and what doesn’t – the old 80:20 Rule. Sue: At CFO On Call our Partners talk to their clients about Profit and Loss Statements and Gross Margins. It’s a great subject to discuss with business owners, because many don’t understand the subject of Cost of Sales in their business. Tim: I agree. In ‘Business Freedom’ we spend a lot of time educating business owners about what is best to consider as a Cost of Sale. For example production staff, like tradespeople, often aren’t considered as a Cost of Sale, and yet what they’re selling in service and manufacturing businesses is the time of their production staff, which costs money. Sue: What else do you talk about with Profit & Loss Statements? Tim: I love to simplify ways of doing anything in business and it’s the same with Profit & Loss Statements. The Gross Margin is the percentage of Gross Profit made. We teach our clients that the Expenses can be considered as a percentage of turnover as well. Then the Net Profit Margin is the Gross Margin (percentage) minus the Expenses percentage. For example, if the Gross Margin was 45% and the Expenses 35% the Net Margin is 10%. This is a bit too simple,
The Gross Margins for production and finance are very important and where you see what makes you profit and what doesn’t – the old 80:20 Rule. as we haven’t allowed for Other Income and Other Expenses on a P & L, however it’s still a good analogy. Sue: Can you share the example you told me about the other day? Tim: It was a building industry client. By looking at their P & L their Gross Margin (with consideration of their production labour as a Cost of Sale) was 27%. Their turnover was $3.7Million, their Expenses were 20% (of the Turnover) and their Net Margin was 7%. I looked at their complicated costing schedule spreadsheet and how they priced (and completed) a recent job for $350,000. I totalled their costs, subtracted it from the sale price to calculate the Gross Profit, and then divided it into the sale price to calculate the gross margin. By summing up and calculation, it showed a Gross Margin of 16%. By realising the Expenses on the P & L were 20%, it simply showed they
made a minus 4% Net Margin on that $350,000 job. By sharing this insight with the business owner they were quite shocked, but the numbers and calculations are valid. Sue: That’s a very interesting way of looking at it. Thanks for sharing your insights today. Tim: Thank you. It’s been great sharing a small snippet of Business Freedom with you. Tim has made a great offer to readers of a FREE CD expanding on these concepts. To receive a CD simply call 1300 778 377. CAD Partners 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 help call us on AU 1300 36 24 36 / NZ 0800 180 400 or visit our website www.CFOonCall.com.au / www.cfooncall.co.nz. motor trader queensland
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health Ban Blue Light in the Bedroom
How to get a
good night’s
Insomnia feeds on the minor details of modern life, like the soft blue glow from a cell phone, PDA, or digital clock resting on your bedside table. The short waves of blue light may interfere with sleep. Tip: Turn off TVs, computers, and other blue light producers an hour before sleep. Cover any blue displays you can't shut off.
Avoid Naps Napping makes matters worse if you have trouble falling asleep. But if you must nap, keep it brief, 20 minutes or less - and do it early in the day. Any shuteye within eight hours of your bedtime can sabotage a good night's sleep. Tip: When an afternoon slump hits, go for a short walk, drink a glass of ice water, or phone a friend.
Seal the Mattress The sneezing, sniffling, and itching of allergies can cause fragmented sleep - and your mattress may be to blame. Over time, it can fill with mold, dust mite droppings, and other allergy triggers. Avoid these sleep wreckers by sealing your mattress, box springs, and pillow. Tip: Airtight, plastic, dust proof covers work best.
Try a Leg Pillow for Back Pain Mild low back pain may not wake you, but it can disrupt the deep, restful stages of sleep. A cushy solution is to place a pillow between the legs for better alignment of 26
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If you wake tired with a stiff neck, blame your pillow. Your pillow should be just the right size to support your neck in a neutral position. the hips and reduced stress on the low back. Tip: Back sleepers can tuck a pillow under their knees to help ease pain at night.
Put Your Neck in Neutral If you wake tired with a stiff neck, blame your pillow.
Block the Clock When you glance at the clock in the wee hours of the night, your sleep will suffer. You worry about how few hours are left before your busy day begins. Clock watchers should put their alarm in a drawer, under the bed, or turn it away from view. Tip: Use black tape for the blue LED digital clocks on the bedroom DVR.
Pillows that are too fat or too flat cause problems. Your pillow should be just the right size to support your neck in a neutral position. For side sleepers, the nose should align with the center of the body. Stomach sleeping twists the neck and is best avoided.
Tip: Keep your neck neutral before bed, too. Don't crane your neck to watch TV.
Reserve the Bed for Sleep and Sex Experts say sleep and sex should be the only pastimes pursued in the
sleep
Exercise Right, Time It Right Regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, as long as you don't work out too close to bedtime. A post-workout burst of energy can keep you awake. Aim to finish any vigorous exercise 3 to 4 hours before you hit the hay. Tip: Gentle mind/body exercises are fine just before sleep. Yoga, tai chi, and similar routines are a perfect, sleep-inducing nightcap. with the deeper stages of sleep, so even small amounts found in chocolate and decaffeinated coffee may impact your rest.
bedroom. Don't balance the chequebook, talk on the phone, or watch TV. Everything about the room should be associated with rest and relaxation. Tip: The best sleep temperature for most people is between 20-22 degrees Celsius.
Set Your Body Clock Go to sleep and wake up at about the same time every day -- including weekends. This routine will put your brain and body on a healthy sleep-wake cycle. In time, you'll be able to fall asleep quickly and sleep soundly through the night. Tip: Get out in bright light for 5 to 30 minutes as soon as you rise. Light is the most powerful regulator of the biological clock.
Cut the Caffeine Coffee in the morning is fine for most people, but as soon as the clock strikes noon, avoid caffeine in foods and drinks. Caffeine interferes
Tip: Read labels: Some pain relievers and weight loss pills contain caffeine.
Rethink Your Drink Although the tranquilizing effects of alcohol may make you sleepy at bedtime, beware -- after the initial effects wear off, alcohol
actually causes more frequent awakenings at night and less restful sleep. Tip: Warm milk or chamomile tea are better beverage choices in the evening.
Stop Sipping After 8pm Treat yourself like a child: Nothing to drink within two hours of bedtime. It'll help prevent those sleepwrecking middle-of-the-night bathroom trips. And it can be difficult to get back to
sleep quickly after hitting the cold bathroom floor. Tip: Keep a nightlight in the bathroom to avoid bright light at night.
Lower the Lights Starting two to three hours before bedtime, dim the lights around the house and put aside any work, arguments, or complicated decisions. It takes time to continued on page 28
Starting two to three hours before bedtime, dim the lights around the house and put aside any work, arguments, or complicated decisions. Eat Right at Night Avoid heavy foods and big meals late in the day; they tax the digestive system and make it hard to get high-quality sleep. Some people do well with a light evening snack of sleepinducing foods. Complex carbs and dairy foods fill the bill, such as cereal with milk or crackers and cheese. Tip: Finish any snack at least an hour before bed.
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health turn off the emotional and intellectual noise of the day. Lowering the lights signals your brain to produce melatonin, the hormone that brings on sleep. Tip: Use a 15-watt bulb when reading in the last hour before bed.
Skip the Smoke Need another reason to quit smoking? Nicotine is a stimulant, just like caffeine. Smoking can keep you from falling asleep and worsen insomnia. Tip: While you're planning your quit strategy, you may sleep a little better if you smoke fewer cigarettes in the four hours before bed.
Neutralize Noise A dripping faucet, a child's cough, or a barking dog can add up to big-time sleep loss. And parents may be hypersensitive to noises in the night long after children outgrow the baby stage. Tip: Soothing ‘white noise’ covers up bumps in the night. You can use a fan, an air-conditioner, or a white noise generator available in shops. Earplugs also work.
Free Your Mind at Bedtime Establish a winding down period in the evenings about an hour before bedtime. Read something calm, meditate, listen to music, or take a warm bath. Try
Establish a winding down period in the evenings about an hour before bedtime. Read something calm, meditate, listen to music, or take a warm bath. making a list of any worries, along with a plan to deal with them, to bring closure to your day. Tip: Even a 10-minute pre-sleep ritual may help when time is short.
Use Caution with Sleeping Pills Sleeping pills may be tempting on those nights when sleep just isn't coming, but exercise caution. Some sleep medicines can be
habit forming and may have bothersome side effects. Ideally, they should be used as a very short-term solution, while other lifestyle and behavior changes are put in place.
When Insomnia Means Something More Sleep tips are nice when your insomnia is fleeting. But if your sleeplessness persists for at least a month, it’s time to delve deeper into what's going on.
Sleeping pills may be tempting on those nights when sleep just isn't coming, but exercise caution, they can be habit forming and may have bothersome side effects. Keep Pets Off the Bed A cat or dog's night moves can prevent you from settling into the deep sleep you crave. They can also bring fleas, fur, dander, and pollen to your bed, triggering sleep-wrecking allergies. Tip: Ask your vet or animal trainer how to recondition your pet to sleep, happily, in its own bed.
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Insomnia may be a symptom of an underlying problem. Depression is notorious for causing insomnia, as are other medical conditions, such as acid reflux, asthma, arthritis, and some medications. Chronic insomnia deserves a closer look and evaluation by a GP.
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sport
CEO of the Bosch ARC Scott Pedder (left) with NSW Forestry's Dave Wilson at the launch of the Snake Racing Coff Coast Rally on the foreshore at Coffs Harbour.
Coffs rally a tune up for 2013 WRC
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offs Harbour is set to play host to the penultimate round of this year's Bosch Australian Rally Championship in a rally which is shaping as an exciting battle between some of Australia's best rally drivers across both the two wheel drive and four wheel drive titles. The Snake Racing Coffs Coast Rally will be run on 12-14th October on the challenging and highly regarded forestry roads around the coastal city and organisers are expecting more than 80 cars to face the starter. The rally will use many of the roads used in the World Championship Rally Australia, which was run
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in the region last year and which will return in 2013. According to the CEO of the Bosch Australian Rally Championship, Scott Pedder, the Snake Racing Coffs Coast Rally will be one of the highlights of the 2012 Championship with fantastic roads, a magnificent backdrop and competitive battles across several categories.
All three stages run on Sunday are on roads used in Rally Australia, providing some of the best rally roads in the country and a great test for competitors.
"Being the home of Rally Australia means this Coffs event is really like a mini round of the WRC, using many of the same roads and giving local organisers and volunteers the chance for a full dress rehearsal prior to the World Championship's return in 2013," said Mr. Pedder.
the Snake Racing Coffs Coast Rally will also play host to the final of the Rallyschool Australian Junior Challenge, the Australian Side by Side Rally Challenge, the East Coast Classic Rally Challenge as well as being round three and four of the 2012 NSW State Rally Championship, with the two day rally being split into two rounds for State competitors.
Along with the Bosch Australian Rally Championship competition,
In a first for the Championship and in recognition of the excitement
they have generated in season 2012, the Side by Sides will head the field and will be the first vehicles through the stages at Snake Racing Coffs Coast Rally. This also recognises the great input from the event naming rights sponsor, Snake Racing, which has played a key role in promoting and growing the Side-by-Side category in Australian rallying. "We are truly thankful for the backing and support Ryan Flanagan and his team at Snake Racing has given to not only the Coffs Coast Rally but also the entire Bosch ARC this year," said Scott Pedder In addition the rally will host an All-comers event on the first day of the event on Saturday 13th October, allowing non-homologated
cars to enjoy the challenging and exciting Coffs forestry roads. The Snake Racing Coffs Coast Rally will be based at Coffs Harbour Airport using the same central service Park as Rally Australia and the field will be flagged away on Friday evening in a ceremonial start in the Coffs Harbour Mall. Competitors will face two runs over four separate stages for a total of eight special stages totalling 126 km of competitive running on Saturday 13 October with a remote service point in Woolgoolga. On day two of the rally on Sunday 14 October there will be a remote service at Ulong with crews tackling two runs each over three separate stages for a total of six special stages with108 km of competitive running before a ceremonial finish near the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club on Sunday afternoon. Rally clerk of course Adrian Dudok says the rally will provide some challenging roads and some great spectator viewing across both days of the event. 'We have tried to use as many WRC roads as we can in a compressed two day format and I am sure both drivers and spectators will have a fantastic time on this rally," said Adrian.
"Snake Racing Coffs Coast Rally will have a total of eight hours of national TV coverage on the Ten Network providing a great platform to not only showcase Australian rallying but also the fabulous Coffs Coast region which is a strong boost for local tourism and promotion," said Scott Pedder.
Pizza Hut backs driver for Bathurst
I
n conjunction with the launch of its supersized pizza offering, The Plank, Pizza Hut Australia has announced the company’s first-ever sponsorship within the motorsport industry, backing 2011 NSW Formula Ford Champion and rookie V8 Ute driver Steve Charman at the Bathurst 1000 race. This is Pizza Hut Australia’s first major sporting sponsorship and the investment is valued at $200,000, including TV advertising and Facebook promotions. Pizza Hut Australia’s general manager Graeme Houston said that Pizza Hut is thrilled to be involved in one of the country’s most well regarded motorsport events.
“In particular, we’re proud to support Steve as he works to build on last year’s success and take the next leap in his career,” Mr. Houston said. “Pizza Hut is the world’s largest pizza chain but selling pizzas isn’t the only thing we do. “We love getting behind Australian talent and can’t wait to see how Steve performs in his debut at Bathurst,” he added. Steve Charman has been racing since 2009 and started his career in the Formula Ford open-wheeler category. Last year, he took out the NSW Formula Ford Championship with Anglo Motorsport, and saw the V8 Utes as a great opportunity to further his motorsport career. “Pizza Hut has given me an amazing opportunity and support for my debut at Bathurst in a FG Ford V8 Ute for the 50th Anniversary Bathurst race weekend in October,” said Mr. Charman.
We’re proud to support Steve as he works to build on last year’s success and take the next leap in his career.
“My debut in V8 Ute Racing will be my first National Championship event, first big race in a race car with a roof, and definitely a good step on the way to every Australian driver’s dream of racing in the V8 Supercars in the future. “I am looking forward to working with Pizza Hut - it’s going to be an exciting event,” he added. The key components of the sponsorship include naming rights and full car livery, as well as a major prize package to be won at Bathurst 1000 for four friends to score a VIP trip to the Gold Coast round of the V8 Ute Series, in which Charman will also be competing this year. His V8 Ute also features in Pizza Hut’s latest TV commercial for The Plank. Anup Jain, head of marketing and food innovation at Pizza Hut, said “It’s widely understood that blokes love fast cars and pizza so we’ve combined both to produce the ideal partnership. “We’re very excited to get behind Steve and provide him with our full support as he debuts at Bathurst 1000”.
"All three stages run on Sunday are on roads used in Rally Australia, providing some of the best rally roads in the country and a great test for competitors," he said. "We are very fortunate in Coffs to have such fabulous stages so close to town which will also allow spectators to catch action at a number of points at no cost," he added. motor trader queensland
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Volvo sponsors Oz Golf Open
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s official car partner of the Emirates’ Australian Open Golf Tournament, Volvo Car Australia has launched its second year of partnership with a unique opportunity. With the event due to take place on 6-9 December 2012 at the Lakes Golf Club in Sydney, Volvo Cars and the PGA of Australia (PGA) have commenced a preevent activation programme. In addition to a range of innovative on-site events, Volvo Cars and the PGA are offering exclusive access to the official pro-am tournament just days before the Emirates Australian Open.
By utilising the PGA and Volvo databases, anyone who books and completes a test drive of a Volvo by 31 October automatically goes into the draw to win one of two spots in two four-balls in the official pro-am of Australia's most prestigious golf tournament. Moreover, should any of this same test drive group buy
With 67,321 spectators attending the 2011 event, and a domestic television audience of over 3.86 million viewers, the Emirates Australian Open is one of the most popular sporting events on the Aussie calendar.
a Volvo during this period, they will be invited to the official PGA Volvo Golf Day on Sunday 2 December at The Lakes to play a round in tournament conditions at a day hosted by Australian golfer Peter O'Malley. During the day, these guests will also be measured up by TaylorMade for a custom built set of R11 golf clubs. With 67,321 spectators attending the 2011 event, and a domestic television audience of over 3.86 million viewers, the Emirates Australian Open is one of the most popular sporting events on the Aussie calendar. In addition, a brand new Volvo will be available to any Tour Professional who secures a hole-in-one during the event.
Ferrari gathering at Silverstone sets record
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world record was established in mid September for the biggest parade of
Ferraris ever organised. In total, 964 Ferraris took to the Silverstone circuit to beat the previous record of 490 cars dating back to 2008 at Japan’s Fuji Speedway Circuit. Felipe Massa was the guest of honour, leading the parade at the wheel of a 458 Spider. “It was a really unforgettable experience,” said the Scuderia Ferrari race driver, against a backdrop of the hundreds of cars. “It’s a great honour for me to be here for such a special event, with so many cars all brought together on one race track, which produced an unprecedented spectacle for all Prancing Horse fans,” he added. It was a truly memorable scene with over 900 Ferraris from all over the UK and further afield at Silverstone circuit as part of the Ferrari Racing Days. This ambitious attempt was successful in no small part thanks to the cooperation of the British Ferrari Owners Club and it was all in a good cause, as Ferrari donated 5 British Pounds (AUD $7.78) for every car in the parade to BEN, a British charity that supports employees from the motor industry and their families.
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