Motor Trader - December & January - Online Edition

motor trader

motor trader queensland | vol. 82 | issue 11 | dec 2011/jan 2012

'Drive' Car of the Year awards Business advisors Researcher funding

Salary sacrificing Public holidays 2012

Air powered motorcycle

Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

Head Office 1000 Wynnum Building 8, 2728Road, LoganCannon Road, Eight Hill, Mile Qld Plains, 4170 Qld 4113 P.O. Box 4530, 560, Morningside, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4170 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 Managing Editor Kellie Dewar

Editor in Chief Michael Taylor

Art Director

Peter Richardson

Advertising Enquiries

Jeff Dunlop Jillian Anfield Mobile: 0414 075 0422 473 007 944 Facsimile: 07 3844 4488 Email: jilliana@mtaq.com.au jeffd@mtaq.com.au

contents 2. From the editor 4. Policy/Viewpoint Industrial Relations 5. Salary Sacrifice (into a superannuation fund) Public Holidays for 2012

Features 6. What's your business worth? – it could be more than you think!

18. 10 Tips for choosing a great Business Advisor Electric cars featured at climate change 22. Drive Car of the Year conference, p.12

Industry Update

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.

10. Ferrari designer leaves lasting legacy Air powered motorcycle 11. FORCE TOOLS: Opportunity knocks 12. Electric cars featured at climate change conference Hino trucks adopt multimedia system 13. The New BMW C 600 Sport and BMW C 650 GT 14. The Honda Foundation tackles bullying 15. QUT exports drink-driving expertise to China 16. New coach meets demand 17. Funding for researchers Funding for researchers Mazda’s ‘SKYACTIV-G 1.3’ engine wins award

MTA Queensland ABN: 74 028 933 848

Health

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

Corporate Partners

BMW presents two maxi scooters, p.13

20. Nineteen relationship secrets

Sport 26. Bosch ARC expands to six rounds in 2012 27. Solid win for the Evans’ Audi backs Australian Sailing Team 28. Reed secures long-term commitments 29. Superbike Championship Awards Night 30. Australian GT Championships 2012

Husband-wife team win ARC showroom category, p.27

Automobile News 31, Pajero The MINI Roadster i-MiEV selling in Australia 32. Yeti ECOnetic VW Cabriolet Ferrari designer made cars with his eyes and hands, p.10 motor trader queensland

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from the editor

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Michael Taylor, Editor

y the time you are reading this, MTA Queensland will have moved to our new location at Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains. Officially operating as at 12 December, the lead up to the move has been an exercise in precision planning orchestrated to perfection. Hats off to everyone involved with the move, which sees our Association housed in our own purpose built, state of the art facility that sets a new benchmark for excellence in automotive training. With 28 training mechanical and vehicle body repair bays for pre-vocational training and delivery of specialist competencies not available in all workplaces, MIT is able to offer two new priority qualifications in collision repair. Industry practitioners were engaged to assist in the design and technical fit out to replicate the ‘real’ work environment, providing new entrants and school based apprentices and trainees with skills development in a realistic but safe work environment.

It is able to facilitate the training of well over 2000

The move sees our Association housed in our own purpose built, state of the art facility that sets a new benchmark for excellence in automotive training.

With 28 training mechanical and vehicle body repair bays for pre-vocational training and delivery of specialist competencies not available in all workplaces. automotive apprentices and trainees per year of which more than 90 percent will be employed.

In this edition you will find an excellent article regarding how to find a good business advisor (page 18) who can help you crystallise what is important in your business. It’s easy to get bogged down in business with everything you are responsible for. Someone who comes from the outside,

whose perspective isn’t clouded by the ‘day to day’ activities, can help you see the clear way ahead.

Another good read is the article starting on page 6, provided by Benchmark Business & Commercial Sales. If you are thinking about selling your business, the most successful way to go about it is to develop an Exit Strategy, which will expedite the process. Too often business owners just walk away from the business without realising the true value of what they have built up over the years – this article will point you in the right direction that will give you the most peace of mind when it comes to going forward with selling up.

Have a look at the Drive Car of the Year awards on page 22. This is the first time a diesel-powered car has won the top award, which is an indication of the changing technological nature of our industry. In addition, European cars won nine of the 13 categories, with the Ford Territory the only locally built winner.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Queensland’s Automotive Centre of Excellence INST IT UT E OF T ECHNOLOGY

Queensland’s Peak Automotive Industry Body

Automotive Training Specialists

One Stop Industry Support for:

Specialising in:

• Government and Media Representations

• Light Vehicle Mechanical Technicians

• Industrial Relations Advice

• Motorcycle Mechanical Technicians

• Technical Information

• Automotive Electrical Technicians

• Professional Business Conduct within a

• Parts Interpreting

Strict Code of Ethics

• Management Courses

• Consumer Assurance • Legal Advice • Industry-specific Publications and Stationery

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motor trader queensland

Free call 1800 177 951

• Specialist Automotive Technicians

Kickstart the New Year with a BBQ for your workplace

Win a Barbeque of your choice to the value of $600!* To enter sign up for an eligible Commonwealth Bank Product between 1 November and 31 January, fill out the entry form and fax or email it to MTA Queensland (see details below).

Interested?

To find out more about Commonwealth Bank products and services available to MTA Queensland members complete your details below. MTA Queensland will arrange for a Commonwealth Bank Local Business Banker to contact you and discuss your needs.

Completed forms can be sent to MTA Queensland: email: info@mtaq.com.au fax: 07 3844 4488 Business Name:

Email:

Contact:

Telephone:

Commercial Loans

Business Accounts

Business Credit Cards

Financial Planning

Risk Management

EFTPOS/Merchant Services

Investment Loans

Investments

Risk Insurance

I would like Commonwealth Bank to contact me to arrange a free business financial health check *Full terms and conditions can be viewed in full at www.mtaq.com.au

images are for illustration purposes only, BBQ utensils are not included in this offer

policy/viewpoint Australian Consumer Law (ACL) – Video Guide The Office of Fair Trading has produced a new video guide to assist businesses in understanding their rights and obligations under the new ACL. The video, consisting of eleven brief sections, discusses several important areas, including: • consumer guarantees – the basics • consumer guarantees on goods • consumer guarantees on services • warranties • unfair contract terms

Richard Payne, Principal Policy Director

• unsolicited consumer agreements • lay-bys, itemised bills, repair notices and multiple pricing We commend the video to you as a training guide for your staff, which may be viewed in its entirety or by selecting specific sections relevant to your business, via the following browser link: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=0Ls9mNhGqcg

Australian Consumer Law (ACL) – Business Signage and “Fine Print” Clauses

A sign or statement claiimg no responsibility for loss or damage to a vehicle or personal articles in the event of fire, theft is likely to breach the ACL as it implies that a consumer is not entitled to compensation under any circumstance. documents within their business to ensure that they

This is a reminder for members to review signage and clauses on printed

do not breach the provisions of the ACL. Displayed signage

AUTO CARE SOFTWARE

BUSINESS SOFTWARE FOR MECHANICAL REPAIRERS AUTO ELECTRICAL TYRE AND SPARE PARTS BUSINESSES

MAIN MODULES Sales

1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010 1010101010

Stock Control

Purchasing

Banking

Booking Diary

General Ledger

Payroll

Send & Receive SMS Messages

Special Features Vehicle Service History Automatic next service reminder letter printing Numerous vehicle registrations with one ownership ID Job Costing, Job Profitability Serviceman Productivity Reports Multi user application

For more information contact Auto Care Software or download a free test drive from our web site

www.autocaresoftware.com.au 4

motor trader queensland

Sales: 1800 15 88 75

or statements to consumers must not forfeit their rights to claim compensation under the ACL. For example, a sign or statement that says: “we accept no responsibility for loss or damage to the vehicle or personal articles in the event of fire, theft or any other cause beyond our control” is likely to breach the ACL as it implies that a consumer is not entitled to compensation under any circumstance.

For clarity please refer to the ACL website: http://www. consumerlaw.gov.au

Drivers-side floor mat precautions An unsecured drivers-side floor mat may result in it slipping and interfering with the movement of vehicle pedals, resulting in an accident. When choosing mats, or advising customers on the choice of mats, we recommend the following guidelines be observed with the driver’s side: • Use a mat of the correct size (one that matches the size and contour of the space on the vehicle) and one that can be retained by clips affixed to the original equipment carpet or floor mount.

Note: manufacturers’ genuine accessory mats are designed to conform to these requirements.

• Fit floor mat, correct side up on the vehicle’s carpet and secure with clips.

• Do not place mat on top of an existing mat.

• If there is a possibility of the drivers–side mat slipping forward then is should not be used.

Thanks are extended to Toyota Australia for the information they provided for this information.

industrial relations Salary Sacrifice (into a superannuation fund) In a recent decision of Fair Work Australia, Vice President Lawler has confirmed that employees are able to set up a salary sacrifice arrangement that takes their net pay below the award rate.

(Casey Grammar School v Independent Education Union of Australia, 25 October 2010. PR503051.)

This has been a contentious issue for quite some time and this is the first time Fair Work Australia has ruled on it. The effect of the decision is to validate arrangements, made by employees with their employer, to salary sacrifice an amount into superannuation that could take their net pay below the award rate.

Example: A tradesman being paid $900 per week

Ted Kowalski, Industrial Relations Manager

wants to salary sacrifice $300 per week into his superannuation fund. This would leave him with a net payment, before tax, of $600 - while the award rate for a tradesman is currently $686.30.

The case quoted above indicates such an arrangement is valid under the Fair Work legislation. In this example, the tradesman would be taxed by his employer on the $600, and the employer would remit the full $300 directly to the employee’s superannuation fund. (The superannuation fund is, of course, still required to deduct 15% contributions tax from all such amounts paid into the fund.) This arrangement is advantageous for the tradesman, even allowing for the contributions tax deducted by the superannuation fund, as he is only taxed by his employer on $600 rather than $900. Such an arrangement would have to be confirmed in writing and could only apply to

future earnings. The parties need to clarify that the salary sacrificed amount will not take the place of the employer’s obligation to pay 9% superannuation on the full gross amount of $900 and that annual leave, sick leave and long service leave accruals will still be paid at the full gross amount of $900/wk. By agreeing to this the employer encourages the employee to take responsibility for his retirement - and without any direct cost to the employer.

Public Holidays for 2012 The Queensland government has decided to gazette an additional Public Holiday for the Queen’s Birthday in 2012. As well as the traditional June celebration (11th June – Queen’s Diamond Jubilee), we will have an extra day to be celebrated on Monday 1st October 2012. In future years, only the October

observance will continue and the June holiday will no longer apply.

The gazetted Public Holidays for 2012 are: New Year’s Day Monday 2nd January Australia Day Thursday 26th January Good Friday Friday 6th April Easter Saturday Saturday 7th April Easter Monday Monday 9th April Anzac Day Wednesday 25th April Labour Day Monday 7th May Queens Diamond Jubilee Monday 11th June Brisbane Show Day Wednesday 15th August Queen’s Birthday Monday 1st October Christmas Day Tuesday 25th December Boxing Day Wednesday 26th December

We come to you!

Certificate IV Frontline Management (Workplace Delivery) enrolments are now open for early 2012.

An MTA Institute of Technology trainer is available to come to your workplace* on a fortnightly basis to see you through to qualification. *Areas available include Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Brisbane metro and west to Toowoomba.

Telephone Anthony Bonaccorso on 1 800 884 137 to register your interest.

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Having an exit strategy, a plan on how and when to sell your business means you can capitlise on all your effort over the years.

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id you know that many business owners don’t realise that their businesses are valuable? Often business owners simply close down and walk away from their business without ‘cashing-in’ on the goodwill that they have built up in their business. What a shame. All those years of hard work and no reward for their effort. If they had only known that there was a buyer out there for their business, they may have acted differently.

There is another group of business owners who operate their businesses every day, without planning for the day that they will sell out. Oh, they plan to sell, but they just don’t know when, or how, or who they will sell to or how much the business should sell for.

There is no plan in place,

just a vague intention that one day they will sell.

Do you fall into either of these groups or do you have a plan for how you intend to maximise the reward that you receive when you decide that it’s time to move on?

Having a plan on how and when you will sell your business is known as having an “Exit Strategy”.

What are the benefits of having an Exit Strategy?

With an Exit Strategy in place you get to sell your business on your terms, when it suits you, and when you are ready. This makes you a CONFIDENT seller. You will be confident because you will know that your business is ready to sell, and that alone makes it very attractive to potential buyers!

Without an Exit Strategy in place you will be a passive seller, waiting and hoping that a buyer will come along and solve all of your problems. That is like gambling, and that way you are simply reliant upon

often business owners simply

what's your busine – it could be

cl and

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motor trader queensland

chance, which is no way to

Having an Exit Strategy will

• Avoid “time wasters”

talk to an accountant,

run a business.

enable you to:

• Save money

business coach, lawyer

Having a proper Exit

• Get the best possible

• Achieve minimum settlement time

Business brokers work in

Strategy in place will allow you to cash-in quickly, easily and scientifically.

price • Avoid disruption to daily trading

So how do you create an Exit Strategy? You can

or a business broker. the market everyday, and they know what your unique continued on next page

close down walk away from their business without

‘cashing-in’ on the goodwill

ss worth? more than you think! motor trader queensland

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continued from previous page

business will require to be ready to sell for maximum value. They can advise on the 17 areas that you need to consider when selling, and how to implement your plans.

An Exit Strategy includes: • A target date • Preparation of a list of targeted potential buyers • Knowing what potential buyers will want and ask for • Determination of an appropriate asking price • Preparation of financial accounts and data that buyers will require • Creation of a marketing plan and tactical execution timetable Many business owners never get around to actually sitting down and planning how and when they will sell

out of their businesses.

They procrastinate and let other issues take priority.

Don’t put off this important part of business ownership, do it soon – do it today!

Business owners with an exit plan in place are often proven to be more effective business people than those who don’t.

This is because they have focus and direction. They are not aimless, because that know where the business is headed, and exactly what they have to do to achieve their goals.

Having direction provides confidence, and confidence enhances performance.

Case Study In 2005 Merv and Linda were ready to retire from their business located in a rural Queensland township.

Just like so many other small business owners they had

never set a real goal for when they would sell the business or for how much they would sell it. They had owned the business for over twenty years and had worked long and hard to survive in a difficult region.

So without much planning, they decided to put the business on the market.

Their financial advisor assisted in selling the business, and after a year, they had not sold. They hadn’t even spoken to one serious buyer.

As time went by Merv and Linda started to think about simply closing down the business, but as they owned the premises too, they felt it would be better if they could sell and find a tenant to operate the business.

In August 2006 Merv & Linda engaged a professional business broker to sell their

business, and in October 2006 the business was sold for $900,000 – plus stock! The buyer was a multinational company.

Just when they were looking to “walk away” from their business, they found the right person to sell it for them – and they are $900,000 better off as a result!

Had they been in a position to plan their sale, and prepare over time, they would have sold their business at a premium price, and they would have sold out within a defined time period.

For further information on forming an Exit Strategy or for someone to talk to regarding the sale of your business, telephone Benchmark on 1 300 366 521 – website www. benchmarkbusiness.net

Diploma of Management Earn your Diploma of Management at MTA Institute of Technology’s new, state-of-the-art facility at Eight Mile Plains!

Enrolments are now open for early 2012!

The course is delivered one night per week over a 20 week period, giving you the qualification that provides skills and knowledge required to perform effectively as a manager, team leader or workshop manager.

Alternative to College training, this course is also offered via Distance Learning, giving you the opportunity to obtain this nationally accredited Diploma wherever you live!

Telephone Anthony Bonaccorso today on 1 800 884 137 to register your interest.

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motor trader queensland

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.

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.

MTA Queensland actively lobbies Governments with the best interest of our members to reduce red tape and streamline process for business owners.

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.

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.

Corporate Express is the leading supplier of a complete range of office consumables, bulk stationery and janitorial supplies.

One Stop Industry Advice

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.

• 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.

The STAR Workplace Program recognises organisations that are committed to creating high performing and engaged workplaces. This is your opportunity to get the recognition that you and your team deserve. Stand out from the crowd and show your team, future employees and your clients that your business is a STAR.

• Industrial Relations As a member of MTA Queensland you have access to industry specific-industrial relations expertise for advice and legal representation • Consumer Complaints MTA Queensland will assist member businesses and mediate in the event of a consumer complaint.

MTAA Superannuation, our superannuation partner has over 200,000 members who are enjoying excellent returns from the Fund.

• Legal Advice Members can access professional legal assistance as part of their membership of MTA Queensland – intial phone advise free • Industry Awareness Members receive regular industry specific publications keeping you abreast of changes, legislative requirements, developments and initiatives in your industry.

Motor Trader, the official publication of MTA Queensland is issued monthly as part of your membership.

M T E L Tr i n i t y

MTEL-Trinity. Telecommunications for MTA Queensland members. Offering a complete range of very competitive products for both Business and Residential customers.

Offers include Landline, Mobile phones and ADSL plans.

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 4113 07 3237 8777 enquires@mtaq.com.au www.mtaq.com.au

industry update Ferrari designer leaves lasting legacy

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errari is mourning the death of Sergio Scaglietti, the designer who joined forces with Enzo Ferrari to produce some of the most legendary and most sought after Ferraris in the company’s history.

“Today is a sad day for Ferrari,” said Ferrari Chairman Luca di Montezemolo.

“We lost a friend, a travel companion, a man who had his name forever connected to the Prancing Horse.

“Sergio Scaglietti leaves behind the legacy of an artist who with his talent created some of the most beautiful cars of our history.

Those who had the luck to know him like I did will also remember him as a straightforward and honest man completely dedicated to his work - we will miss him,” he added.

Sergio Scaglietti, the legendary Ferrari coachbuilder, created some of the most famous Ferraris, such as the Ferrari California, the 250 Testa Rossa, the 250 GTO and the 750 Monza. Sergio Scaglietti was a real and natural talent who, as he liked to say, made cars with his hands and with his eyes.

Although the son of a carpenter, Sergio Scaglietti became known as the ‘maestro of aluminium’ and 10

motor trader queensland

1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa (Inset) Sergio Scaglietti

modern successor to the long line of Italian sculptors, such was his skill in designing and shaping metal into classic Ferraris.

His relationship with Enzo Ferrari started when the then young mechanic was asked to repair a mud flap on one of Ferrari’s cars and in 1951 he opened his own business, Carrozzeria Scaglietti, at the young age of 17. Shunning paper and pencils, Scaglietti produced cars from within his head and through his unique skill with a hammer and aluminium. The

The son of a carpenter, Sergio Scaglietti became known as the ‘maestro of aluminium’ and modern successor to the long line of Italian sculptors, such was his skill in designing and shaping metal into classic Ferraris. link continues today with all Ferrari production cars made in aluminium at Carrozzeria Scaglietti, which is now part of the Ferrari company.

“He was one of my father’s (Enzo) best friends,” said Piero Ferrari.

“He was next to me with Marco Piccinini also the day my father died and stayed with me the whole night until the funeral.

“I loved him and he was a

very important part of my life and my life will be emptier without Sergio,” he said.

Air powered motorcycle

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motorcycle powered purely by compressed air was displayed at the 2011 Sydney Motorcycle & Scooter Show at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre at the end of November.

RMIT Industrial Design student Dean Benstead has designed and developed the ’02 Pursuit’, a working prototype of a motocross bike that gives value to air as an alternate source of ‘fuel’ with the use of the DiPietro air engine developed by Angelo DiPietro of Engineair Australia.

Based on the geometry of a current-spec 250cc motocrosser, the project’s

initial focus was on the design and product development processes over performance engineering, but Benstead said he could see a future for a marketable model based on the air-powered prototype.

If petrol power was past and electric power was present, Benstead said he believed that with further development there was a place for compressed air in the future as an economical and environmentally-friendly option.

“The concept evolved from research to sketches to computer modeling before the chassis and bodywork was built and fabrication at local manufacturer, Rinlatech Engineering, began,” explained Mr. Benstead.

“I wanted to explore the viability of compressed air as an alternative fuel, and my childhood experiences riding dirt bikes led me to design the motocross bike based around the Engineair engine.

“I’ve worked closely with project partners including Engineair, Yamaha Australia, who donated the running gear from a WR250F to power the bike, as well as various design

staff, Simon Curlis and Automotive designer Marcus Hotblack at RMIT. “The stationary test runs we’ve run have been very positive – the bike can hit speeds in excess of 100km/h in its current build, and with more development we can see the range of the bike doubling or tripling.

“The next prototype would involve a total re-style, different material choices over the current steel tube chassis, such as aluminum or even a futuristic printed titanium, reducing the weight comparable to a heavy-duty mountain bike.

“I’m excited to be able to reveal the bike in front of an audience at the Sydney Motorcycle & Scooter Show and am very much looking forward to any feedback from visitors and industry,” he added.

The ’02 Pursuit’ was unveiled in a working demonstration and was displayed on the Two Wheels exhibit for the duration of the three-day show.

The Sydney Motorcycle & Scooter Show is Australia’s largest showcase of everything on two wheels, featuring a comprehensive display of bikes from all major manufacturers and products and services from a range of industry specialists.

FORCE TOOLS: Opportunity knocks FORCE TOOLS AUSTRALIA, the sponsor of MIT’s Student of the Month and other MIT training programs that provides tool kits and tool accessories to stand out students, is seeking expressions of interest from those that would like to join the FORCE TOOLS Distributorship.

Owner Derek Hermann said that the company acknowledges and appreciates that for most people, establishing a new business is a life changing decision and accordingly, FORCE TOOLS has sought to provide a detailed and thorough analysis to ensure accurate understanding of all aspects of the business opportunity.

“We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated people to support and grow our expanding network, to benefit from partnering with our team to enjoy new found freedom and success,” said Mr. Hermann.

“To assist anyone in making an informed decision of the suitability of the FORCE TOOLS Distributorship, we would be pleased to meet with them, answer their questions and provide valuable guidance and insight for their consideration,” he added.

Mr Hermann said that market research had indicated that the most significant aspects when contemplating the purchase of a new business prospect are a strong brand, high quality products, comprehensive backup and support and value.

“These are all key elements of the proven Force Tools Distribution Program,” he said.

“We would love the opportunity to explain FORCE TOOLS’ unique and exciting offer – a simple, compact, flexible business combined with huge financial reward potential and remarkable affordability.

“A Force Tools Distributor has the freedom to take the ‘shop’ mobile, be their own boss, enjoy flexible hours and possesses the ability to vary income without the restrictions of a permanent location, associated rent and expensive outgoings.

“There can be significant taxation advantages in utilising your place of residence as your base and home office but we recommend you seek professional advice regarding specific aspects,” Mr Hermann said.

Force Tools Australia enjoys a strong affiliation with the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC),offering substantial credibility to our Force Tools Distributors.

“VACC and Force Tools have partnered to support and supply the apprenticeship programs, seeking to encourage and sponsor education and greater professional skill,” said Mr Hermann.

He explained that initial outlay and cost is always a major consideration when venturing into business and that the company is able to offer a new and lucrative business opportunity concurrent with lifestyle benefit to aspiring individuals and families, at an affordable and low-entry level investment. www.Forcetools.com.au motor trader queensland

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industry update

Electric cars featured at climate change conference

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or the first time ever, a fleet of mass-produced, zero-emission vehicles took to the streets of Africa.

A dozen electric cars from the Renault-Nissan Alliance highlighted the benefits of green transportation and provided zero-emission shuttle services for delegates at the 2011 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Durban, South Africa, in November. The 17th annual Conference of Parties (COP17) purpose was to “stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations at a level that will prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system.”

Electric vehicles, which can be charged from purely renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, play a critical role in achieving COP17’s goals and reducing the impact of climate change.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance is the world leader in electric-vehicle technology and the only car group worldwide offering a range of vehicles that consume no petroleum whatsoever.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance plans to sell 1.5 million zeroemission cars by 2016.

Nissan has already sold more than 20,000 LEAFs on three continents, making it the most popular EV in the world. Renault just began selling Kangoo Z.E., a light commercial vehicle. The Fluence Z.E. family sedan will go on sale shortly followed by Twizy, an urban 2-seater, and ZOE, a compact hatchback, next year.

At COP17, the Alliance offered test-drives in the Renault Twizy, a fun-to-drive commuter vehicle that can be plugged into many conventional wall sockets.

COP17 marked one of the first public test-drive opportunities for the Twizy, an antidote to the air and noise pollution plaguing some of the world’s biggest cities. Twizy test drives took place at South Africa’s landmark

Moses Mabhida Stadium throughout the conference.

COP17 also offered a sneak peek of the highly acclaimed Nissan LEAF, named World Car of the Year 2011, and Renault Fluence Z.E., a luxury sedan. Both cars were on the streets as shuttles for COP17 delegates. They were also available for test drives.

South Africa aims to become the continent’s leader in clean-energy generation. The country hopes to build one of the world’s biggest solar power plants – an ambitious effort that would increase access to electricity while simultaneously reducing the region’s dependence on fossil fuels. Giant mirrors and solar panels would dot the Northern Cape province, which ranks in the sunniest 3 percent of regions worldwide.

“The Renault-Nissan Alliance applauds what South Africa and all the nations represented at COP17 are doing to reduce the threat to our environment and standard of living due to global warming,” said Hideaki Watanabe, Corporate Vice President of the Zero Emission Business Unit at Nissan.

“The Alliance wants to be part of the solution for a sustainable society. Our electric

vehicles – which consume no gasoline whatsoever offer a real and affordable solution to drastically reducing CO2 emissions,” he added.

Nissan has announced plans to launch Nissan LEAF to South Africa in 2013, subject to the successful conclusion of discussions between the government and the motoring industry on the establishment of a charging infrastructure and the introduction of customer incentives.

Hino trucks adopt multimedia system

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ino Australia has become the first truck manufacturer in the world to include a digital audio broadcast (DAB+) multimedia unit as standard equipment across its range of trucks.

The state-of-the-art multimedia unit features a large 6.1 inch high-definition touch-screen, DAB+ digital and conventional AM/FM radio receivers, CD and DVD player, USB and SD input, and is Bluetooth™ enabled.

All Hino 300, 500 and 700 Series trucks manufactured from September 2011 feature the all-new Australian-designed multimedia unit as factoryfitted standard equipment.

According to Hino Australia product planning manager, Daniel Petrovski, the new Hino multimedia unit was designed and engineered in Australia to suit the needs of local owners and operators.

“Hino is very proud of this outstanding new feature,” Mr. Petrovski said.

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The New BMW C 600 Sport and BMW C 650 GT

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MW Motorrad is expanding its business activities to include urban mobility. The company will be presenting two premium vehicles on the maxi scooter segment. The BMW C 600 Sport and the BMW C 650 GT combine the outstanding riding properties of a motorcycle with the specific agility and conceptual comfort of a scooter for a new kind of dynamic riding experience.

“Not only is this the most advanced multimedia unit ever fitted to a truck, the new Hino unit shames those fitted to the majority of luxury cars.”

“A truck’s cabin is the primary office for many of our customers, so we began looking for ways to improve the efficiency and safety of their working day.

“Our all-new in-dash double-din multimedia unit is designed to be user-friendly, features the latest technology and contributes to vehicle safety with the adoption

of rear-view sound-enabled infrared cameras and Bluetooth™ technology.

“Not only is this the most advanced multimedia unit ever fitted to a truck, the new Hino unit shames those fitted to the majority of luxury cars,” he added.

Up to three Hino rear-vision cameras can be installed and viewed on the screen in a variety of configurations - including viewing all three simultaneously in a splitscreen arrangement.

The differing characteristics of the concepts behind these two maxi scooters appeal to a wide target group: the C 600 Sport for the riders with sports ambitions, and the C 650 GT for customers attaching greater importance to comfort and touring ability.

Irrespectively of their differing concepts, the bikes set new standards in modernity and dynamics.

The 2-cylinder inline engine of the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT is an all-new development

by BMW Motorrad with a displacement of 647 cc. In both models, its rated power output is 44 kW (60 hp) at 7500 rpm, and its max torque of 66 Nm is available at 6000 rpm. The power is transferred via a directly integrated CVT, or continuously variable transmission.

The engine owes its low position and therefore low centre of gravity to its cylinder bank, which is inclined to the front through 70°. The characteristic sound and low vibration levels are the result of the 90° crank pin offset, 270° ignition motor trader queensland

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industry update spacing, and two balancer shafts driven by spur gears.

An electronic fuel injection system supplies the four valves under the two overhead camshafts. Oil is supplied from a dry sump with double oil pump, and an efficient cooling concept optimises the thermal equilibrium in the 2-cylinder engine.

The exhaust system is made completely of stainless steel and fitted with a closed loop catalytic converter and an oxygen sensor, the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT fulfill today the Euro-4 emission limits of tomorrow.

The design of the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT suspension features a torsionally rigid hybrid interconnection of a tubular steel bridge frame and a diecast aluminium unit at the swingarm bearing. In addition, the 2-cylinder

are aligned to motorcycle dimensions.

can be used e.g. to hold two helmets.

The new C 600 Sport and C 650 GT are fitted with abraking system consisting of a two-rotor disc brake at the front and a single disc brake at the rear, each 270 mm in diameter. At the same time, the BMW Motorrad ABS fitted as standard ensures maximum possible safety.

The sporty, dynamic scooter BMW C 600 Sport is characterised by a seat positioned for extremely active riding. This was made possible by the arrangement of the footboards, seat, and handlebar in an ergonomic triangle. More fastidious needs for touring and long distance capabilities are fulfilled by the luxurious C 650 GT. The rider and passenger can adopt a more relaxed sitting posture that will be appreciated over long stretches. The ergonomics designed for even greater passenger capability and comfort can be felt in particular on a more comfortable seat with adjustable backrest for the rider in conjunction with a higher handlebar and comfortable floorboards in lieu of separate footrests for the passenger. In addition, the C 650 GT presents a larger, powered windscreen for even better protection against wind and weather.

The instrument cluster of the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT presents a large, easily readable LCD display with integrated engine speed readout and an analogue speedometer. .

For the first time, BMW Motorrad is also offering an LED daytime running light as an optional equipment feature on its C 600 Sport and C 650 GT. The FlexCase for the C 600 Sport is an innovative stowage space concept. A flap in the tail base under the seat enlarges the stowage space on the stationary vehicle. This

The Honda Foundation tackles bullying

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he Honda Foundation and Yarra Honda have made a generous $10,000 donation to The Alannah and Madeline Foundation, to assist with the production of the ‘Bullying Hurts’ brochure.

Designed to tackle bullying in schools and community groups, the brochure provides advice to both parents and children on how best to respond to bullying, and where to seek further advice.

The donated funds will help translate this well distributed brochure into a number of languages, making it available to the wider community.

“Bullying affects many people,” said Lindsay Smalley, Chairman of The Honda Foundation.

“We are fortunate enough to live in a time where resources are available through community groups and new technology.

the Honda Foundation aims to provide assistance

inline engine functions as a stressed element, presenting a particularly rigid construction for stable and high precision response.

Also the suspension elements fulfill more fastidious needs for sporting character and comfort. At the front, an upside down fork presents a generous fork diameter of 40 mm. The tail presents a reclining spring strut on the left side. The spring travels are each 115 mm, as they also occur quite commonly on the motorcycle sector. The tyre widths and cross sections of the C 600 Sport and the C 650 GT 14

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to local communities

“The brochure is accessible online, and will now be available to families from non-English speaking backgrounds, acknowledging our multicultural society,” he said.

The Alannah and Madeline Foundation was set up in memory of Alannah and Madeline Mikac, aged 6 and 3, who were tragically killed with their mother and 32 others at Port Arthur on 28 April 1996. The Foundation is a national charity with a vision to keep children safe from violence.

Buddy programs, emergency care buddy backpacks, cyber-safety programs and the National Centre Against Bullying, are some of The Alannah and Madeline Foundation’s initiatives.

When The Honda Foundation received an application for funding to translate the brochure into a diverse range of languages, they were delighted to assist with such a valuable project. Translating the brochure into Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, Turkish, Vietnamese and Somali, drives home the message that bullying affects everyone and is everyone’s responsibility and helps valuable information reach every home.

The brochure design is attention grabbing, and easy for both children and adults to read. Useful strategies to combat bullying, and a list of resources for further information and help, make up the content of this easy-tonavigate brochure.

“Public demand for bullying resources was a key reason we developed the ‘Bullying Hurts’ brochure,” said Dr Judith Slocombe, CEO of The Alannah and Madeline Foundation.

“It aims to raise awareness of bullying, give practical

As the country’s economy prospers the number of cars on the road is increasing and so too is the number of people who drive while under the influence of alcohol. strategies to parents, children and teachers, and encourage positive behavioural change.

“We are extremely thankful for The Honda Foundation’s support in seeing our Bullying Hurts brochure translated into several different languages.

“It will help to make a real difference in the community,” she added.

The Honda Foundation aims to provide assistance to local communities and foster goodwill among Honda Australia, Honda Motor Vehicle Dealers and the public. It draws funding from Honda Dealers and Honda Australia who donate $15 ($5 and $10 respectively) for every Honda car sold.

For more information on The Honda Foundation and the organisations it supports, please visit www. hondafoundation.org.au

QUT exports drink-driving expertise to China

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ueensland’s premier road accident and safety research body will lend its considerable expertise to China to try to determine why the nation has so many drink driving related road crashes.

Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety - Queensland (CARRS-Q) researcher George Jia said while China owned just three per cent of the world’s vehicles, it accounted for approximately 15 per cent or 100,000 of the world’s annual fatal road accidents.

That’s according to official Chinese figures, although the

World Health Organisation estimates the true figure is more than twice as high.

Mr Jia said in 2009 Chinese police caught 313,000 drink drivers while nearly 6000 drink driving related accidents resulted in 2,665 deaths.

“Not only is drink driving a significant contributor to car crashes in China but as the country’s economy prospers the number of cars on the road is increasing and so too is the number of people who drive while under the influence of alcohol,” he said.

“I’ll look at people’s attitudes and beliefs about drink driving to try to find out whether social and cultural factors are at work here, and whether police enforcement has an impact.

“Culturally, the Chinese motor trader queensland

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industry update like to celebrate, but there appears to be a lack of information on the causes and impact of drink driving,” he added.

Mr Jia, who won a Prime Minister’s Australia Asia Post Graduate Award to undertake the research, will conduct studies in the cities of Yinchuan and Guangzhou.

He will investigate the attitudes of general drivers and drink driving offenders, police perceptions and experiences of random breath testing, and the impacts of other drink driving sanctions including fines.

Once the Chinese data is collected, Mr Jia will compare drink-driving legislation between Australia and China with the aim of providing practical suggestions to policy makers in China on how to reduce the rate of alcohol-related road deaths and accidents in the country.

Mr Jia has had a long interest in road safety having known people in his home city of Yinchuan who’d been involved in accidents.

His decision to undertake serious study stemmed from seeing television footage of a road accident in China in which five people, including a pregnant woman, were killed and four injured. The 2009 accident triggered a crackdown on drink driving and the subsequent amendment of legislation in May this year to make drink driving a criminal offence.

Based at the Queensland University of Technology, CARRS-Q is dedicated to research, education and outreach activities and is a vital player in the international pursuit of road safety.

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New coach meets demand

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ustralian bus and coach company Higer has launched a new RoadBoss 12 metre coach that answers the market’s demand, according to Jason Pecotic, CEO of WMC, the Higer distributor for Australia and New Zealand.

“Higer customers have been asking us for a 12 metre coach for some time and we have been working with Higer to develop the model for the specific demands and needs of Australian operations,” said Mr. Pecotic.

“We have fielded strong interest in the RoadBoss from customers all around the country and customers at the Sydney Bus show were very impressed with the quality and detail in the new coach.

“WMC has worked closely with Higer in China to ensure we had the right specification and equipment to answer the needs and demands of Australian coach operators and the result is a superior 12 metre coach with very

“WMC has worked closely with Higer in China to ensure we had the right specification and equipment to answer the needs and demands of Australian coach operators and the result is a superior 12 metre coach with very high equipment levels and an International and well proven driveline.” high equipment levels and an International and well proven driveline,” he added.

The new RoadBoss 12metre coach is powered by Cummins Euro 5 ISL in line six-cylinder, turbo charged, intercooled, direct injection 8.9-litre diesel engine, which produces maximum power of 320hp and 1300Nm of torque and is mated to the ZF Ecolife six-speed automatic with electronic push button gear selector.

The Cummins engine and ZF configuration delivers superb performance with a maximum speed of 100km/h and grade ability of 30 percent.

It has seating for up to 57 passengers (depending on seat configuration) plus the driver. There is also the option of a mid door and toilet which only sacrifices four seats from total capacity.

The new RoadBoss 12 metre may be a full size coach but it still delivers a highly manoeuvrable package with a tight turning circle thanks to its ZF (ZF8098) integral recirculating ball power steering and Wabco ECAS suspension featuring air bag suspension with double acting Sachs shock absorbers and dual Firestone airbags at the front as well as Neway air bag suspension with double acting Sachs shock absorbers dual Firestone airbags at the rear.

Complementing the International drive line are tried and proven Meritor forged steel I beam design front axles with Meritor fully floating axles at the rear supporting a hypoid differential featuring a final drive ratio 5.63 to 1.

Safety is a high priority with

Funding for researchers The Australian Government is investing over $248 million in funding for 480 talented researchers through the Australian Research Council’s Future Fellowships and Discovery Early Career Researcher Awards (DECRA) schemes.

Announcing the 2011 Future Fellows and the inaugural DECRAs in Parliament House in November, Innovation Minister Senator Kim Carr said the funding was helping Australia grow its vital research workforce and keep Australia’s researchers on the path to discovery.

“Over $144 million is being awarded to 203 talented mid-career researchers under the Future Fellowships scheme, which promotes research in areas of critical national importance by giving outstanding researchers incentives to conduct their research in Australia and to attract and retain the best and brightest mid-career researchers,” Senator Carr said.

“Almost $104 million is being awarded to 277 stand-out early-career researchers under the DECRA scheme, which specifically supports and provides opportunities for promising earlycareer researchers,” he added.

This DECRA funding brings the total of ARC Discovery projects front and rear disc brakes using dual circuit air and WABCO ABS & ASR auto adjusting while traction control is also fitted for sure footed running in marginal traction areas.

Passenger safety is also a major feature with ADR68 fixed seats throughout using three-point safety belts.

Side load through luggage bins are standard as are electric heated mirrors, a full CD/ Radio stereo system, dark tinted saloon glass windows, PA system, cruise control, curtains, luggage

funding announced this year to over $344 million, an increase of around $20 million from last year.

utilising world’s best technology and components, including Cummins engines, Allison and ZF transmissions, Meritor Axles and European designed chassis.

“This support for our researchers is crucial if we want to keep Australia ‘the clever country’, one which continues to come up with solutions to the big problems and issues facing Australians and the world every day,” the Senator said. Senator Carr said some of the benefits that could flow from the support being provided to the 480 researchers include better approaches to mental health, robotic wall-climbing lizards and a new way to mend the heart.

“Dr Kazu Kikuchi from the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute will receive a $673,728 Future Fellowship to study how the zebra fish’s extraordinary ability to regenerate damaged heart tissue might provide insights into the repair of human hearts after injury,” Senator Carr said.

“Professor Robyn Langdon from Macquarie University will receive $674,019 to learn more about life-long social disability in cases of schizophrenia.

The company’s product line up starts at six metre buses and ranges up to full 18 metre vehicles catering to a variety of applications and specific requirements from high-end tourist coaches to high capacity city commuter route buses.

“Dr Christofer Clemente from the University of Queensland will receive a DECRA grant of $375,000 to challenge the current limitations of robotic design by creating a robotic lizard actually capable of climbing and running up and down walls,” the Senator concluded.

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racks and Thermoking air conditioning all standard.

DVD and 3TV are also standard. Reverse camera also standard.

An array of optional equipment is available including a variety of fixed and reclining coach seats in a range of seat trims (cloth, vinyl or leather), various, water coolers, toilet and middle doors (depending on configuration), metallic Paint and a range of paint graphics.

Higer buses are manufactured in China

Higer was awarded the Asia BAAV Bus Expo Bus Coach Builder of the Year for 2007, 2008 and 2009. It also won the Equipment award and the Safest Brand of Choice award in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009.

Mazda’s ‘SKYACTIV-G 1.3’ engine wins award azda Motor Corporation today announced that its newly developed ‘SKYACTIV-G 1.3’ engine has

been named the 2012 Automotive Researchers’ and Journalists’ Conference of Japan (RJC) Technology of the Year. The SKYACTIV-G 1.3 engine is available in the new Mazda Demio (known overseas as the Mazda2) in the Japanese market. RJC chairman, Hiroshi Fukunaga, announced the award after the final round of balloting.

The breakthrough SKYACTIV-G 1.3 achieves a record high compression ratio of 14.0:1 for a regular petrol mass production automobile engine.

It also exhibits outstanding efficiency, especially under high load at low rpm. In order to avoid knocking - an unavoidable issue with conventional highcompression engines - the SKYACTIV-G 1.3 features a number of new technologies, such as piston cavities that are specially designed to support ideal combustion, and multi-hole injectors that enable precise fuel injection control.

The Mazda Demio 13-SKYACTIV model grade combines the SKYACTIV-G 1.3 engine with Mazda’s unique idling stop

system, i-stop, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to deliver high fuel economy of 30.0km/L (under Japan’s 10-15 mode test cycle) or 25.0km/L (JC08 mode). motor trader queensland

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here are literally thousands of people offering business advice. They can be fantastic or they can be dreadful. Here are some tips on how to find the best and how to work with them: 1. Find someone who has passion to work with you to achieve your goals and delivering more value than they cost. A good advisor should be able to help you create improvements, that deliver several times their cost onto your bottom line and add to cash flow as well as create efficiency. They should also be able to quantify the value outcome of your work together.

2. Work with someone who doesn’t just give

you loads more work to do. You need someone who is ‘hands-on’ who will actively participate in the implementation of strategies with you and your team. They should also be clear about how you can implement actions and not leave you to figure it out for yourself.

3. Someone who speaks your language i.e. ‘plain English’ rather than jargon. Don’t feel stupid if you don’t understand what they’re saying – if you’re paying the bill you’ve a right to understand.

4. Someone who understands the ‘Key Drivers’ of your business is a must.

Key Performance

It can be extremely valuable for a

business owner to have someone from outside their business, help them to

work on the business, as well as in it.

Indicators (KPIs) are a fantastic way to measure improvements in all areas of business. Most businesses can be segmented into five main areas: a. Product and Service Development b. Marketing and Sales c. Operations and Finance d. Human Resources e. Customer Service 5. Someone who is prepared to learn about your industry but not charge you for their learning. They don’t necessarily already need to have knowledge, as a good advisor can be a generalist in all types of businesses.

6. Seek someone who has good credentials and a proven track record.

Ask about what they’ve helped other clients to achieve and how they did it and ask for references.

7. Look for someone who ‘walks the talk’ and demonstrates what

they are advising you to do. Have a look at how they present their service, how they market themselves and handle sales, how they operate and handle the financial side, how they work with their own staff and how they handle customer service.

8. Make sure they are accessible and available for you. If you’re working together as a team with them, you need to be able to communicate effectively and you need to bounce ideas off them readily. Having said that, it’s best to be organised about communication and plan for meetings, but occasional ‘ad hoc’ calls shouldn’t be a problem.

9. Someone who doesn’t just push their own ‘hobby horse’. It could be that their area of interest is not your problem, yet this is what they want to focus on, because it’s what they know best. An all-round focus is vital as key areas

10 tips But there are traps for the unwary!

for choosing a

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reciprocate as follows: • Schedule set times to meet with your advisor with no interruptions or distractions.

• Prepare for meetings with notes of what you wish to discuss with them.

• Perform any agreed actions by the agreed time and provide information required by them.

• Be accountable to them – as a business owner it’s easy to get away with not doing things, but it’s far more profitable to stick to the arrangement.

• Treat them as part of your team and introduce them to all staff and stakeholders.

• Pay them on time – it’s very hard for advisors to keep motivated if they aren’t being paid, unless there is a specific reason not to.

needing attention can be overlooked at high cost…but 10. Someone who understands the impact on all areas of business especially the financial side. Getting your financials right helps you understand the impact of changes in other business areas, such as sales and marketing.

Top sales are great, but

the cash flow at the right time to fund them is critical to success.

Once you find the right advisor you will never want to let them go, because they can help you take your business from strength to strength. The fees charged should pale into insignificance when compared to the results achieved. A monthly retainer of two thousand

dollars can work out to be a bargain when compared to the cost of employing such a person who may command a salary of several hundred thousand dollars. Don’t fall into the high up-front fees trap. Agree on a ‘trial period’ to minimise your risk if they turn out to be no good.

As well as expecting professionalism of an advisor, you should

I can highly recommend working with a ‘Trusted Advisor’, I do! It can really help you to crystalise what’s important in your business. It’s easy to get ‘bogged down’ in business with everything you’re responsible for. Someone who comes from the outside, whose perspective isn’t clouded by the ‘day to day’ activities, can help you to see the clear way ahead.

CAD Partners CFO OnCall Advisors 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 1300 36 24 36 or visit our website www.CFOonCall. com.au

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health Nineteen relationship secrets A Caring Guy Is a Hot Guy What do women want? For those who’ve ever pondered this question, WebMD offers 19 relationship secrets.

They’re based on the study of healthy, happy couples and our changing gender roles. Secret No. 1: Women appreciate a guy with a sensitive side, especially when they’re upset. Put your arm around her and hand her a tissue. Nurturing is a powerful way to connect.

Chivalry Still Has a Place When it comes to romance, many women do like men to take a traditional masculine role. This is especially true in the wooing stage of a relationship, according to psychologist Diana Kirschner, PhD, who’s written several books about love.

She’s perfectly capable of pulling out her own chair or opening a door, but if you see her hesitate, she might just be waiting for you to be the gentleman.

Dress to Impress Styles come and go, but a man’s attention to his grooming and clothing should be long lasting. It’s important to women from the first flirtation through the honeymoon and beyond.

“You’ve got to figure out if there’s a certain look that she likes,” says Kirschner. “If she likes a guy in tight jeans, you wear tight jeans.”

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Guy Wears Red, Guy Gets Girl OK, this tip doesn’t come from women, but from clever testing by psychologists of women’s subconscious preferences. One intriguing study found that the color red made men seem more powerful, attractive, and sexually desirable to women.

There’s a caveat, though.

Red doesn’t make guys appear nicer or kinder. That part is up to you.

Don’t Hide Your Flaws Nothing captures a woman’s heart quite like a good man who wants to be a better man, according to love guru Kirschner. “Women love personal growth, they love a man who is thoughtful and sensitive.” She likes it when her man recognizes a flaw -a short temper, for example, or a regularly sullen mood after work -- and loves it when he makes an effort to address it.

Don’t Try to Fix Her World When something’s bothering her, she wants your ear, not your advice. “Men feel the need to fix things because they are solution-oriented,” says Kirschner. “But to a woman, really listening is a wonderful, wonderful thing that deepens the relationship.”

Nodding Is Not Enough Listening is important, but she also wants to know that she is being heard.

Nodding along won’t cut it. When she pauses, she’s giving you a cue to respond in a compassionate, caring way, says Kirschner. If she tells you that she is upset

because her boss gave her a tough time, she wants to hear you say “I’m sorry that work was such a drag for you today.” And remember: Resist the urge to offer solutions.

Date No. 3 Is Not a Bedroom Key

nothing c woman’s

The three dates before sex rule is an urban legend.

Women don’t set a timeline on when they’ll invite a potential partner into the bedroom. Some women will want to have many dates before sex. A good rule of thumb is to give the relationship at least two months to grow before entering the sexual arena.

Women Like the Slow Lane Guys often want to take the quickest path to sex.

But many women prefer the scenic route. “Women want sex but they get to it in a different way,” says psychologist Kirschner, who has helped hundreds of couples achieve a more rewarding relationship. “They want to feel connected and understood, they want to be romanced.” That means time and talking and touching -- in other words, foreplay.

Safe Sex Is a Turn-On This is something both of you need to focus on, but Kirschner says that women appreciate it and feel more protected when the guy makes clear that it’s a concern to him -- and then shows her that he practices what he preaches.

Learn What She Wants in Bed Women do like to talk to

about what’s going on in the sack, and they want to please their man -- and a tactful approach is often best. Ask her what she likes.

Be sure to ask for what you want in a positive and validating way. Kirschner advises saying something along the lines of, “I would really love if you [fill in the blanks].”

Performance Anxiety Is Shared When you have an off night and can’t perform, she feels bad, too. She might worry

captures a heart

quite like a good man who wants to be a better man

Don’t Fear the Relationship Talk When your woman wants to talk about the relationship, it doesn’t mean you did something wrong (well, not necessarily). Kirschner says that many women like to talk about the “state of the union” -- what’s going right, what’s going wrong, or simply what’s going on. This is a good thing.

An honest, wide-ranging talk can bring couples closer.

Look Your Partner in the Eye You may feel more comfortable sitting side by side, but many women prefer face time -- and we don’t mean the latest mobile video chat technology.

Kirschner says that women prefer their men to make eye contact with them as they’re talking. And looking her in the eye during sex will deepen the relationship outside the bedroom.

Don’t Miss the Moment

that she no longer turns you on and she will want assurance that that is not true. She will want to talk about what’s going on and what you are doing about it, especially if it’s a recurring problem. “It’s a touchy thing for both of you,” says Kirschner, “but talking about it is a plus.”

Mirroring Is a Barometer of Love Remember the saying “imitation is the highest form of flattery”? A woman often

conveys how she feels about you by mirroring your moods and moves. She may order a meal that pairs with yours, wear your favorite color, or smile or cross her arms when you do. Mimicking is her way of putting you at ease and letting you know she is charmed.

Your Shirt May Be a Love Magnet Does your partner curl up in your sweater or sneak into your work shirt? Some researchers have found that the scent of a man’s

perspiration has a relaxing effect on women.

Say It, Again and Again Women like to be told they look nice, and they like a man who notices without being told. When she’s wearing a sexy new dress, for example, she’ll give you major points for saying how hot she looks, especially if you mention the dress before she does. If she’s looking particularly attractive, if she has a new haircut, if she’s looking more fit -- let her hear about it.

How do you know if she is ready to commit? She’ll say so. This is something that women are often quite upfront about. But they don’t want to have “the talk” too often. If she’s ready and she’s given you time, the next time the subject comes up, be prepared to step up or step off.

Romance Is Simple; Keep It Coming Romance is something she will always want, whether you’ve been together two months or 20 years. Flowers, an intimate dinner, a few lines of love poetry -- don’t worry, they don’t have to be your own -- might sound cliché, but Kirschner insists that most women appreciate such simple romantic gestures and often show their appreciation after the lights go down. motor trader queensland

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Drive Car o T The Mercedes-

Benz C250 CDI

BlueEfficiency has beaten a field of 45 other cars to

win the prestigious 2011 Drive Car of the Year.

he car was also named the Best Luxury Car Under $80,000, spearheading a strong showing at the awards for European cars.

It is the first time a dieselpowered car has won the Drive Car of the Year award.

The Mercedes-Benz sedan also gets an advanced stopstart system to save fuel when the car is stationary.

The expert judging panel took part in the biggest vehicle test of its kind in Australia, which covered more than 20,000km in a range of driving conditions, from freeway and stopstart suburban driving to dynamic exercises in a controlled environment.

Each contender was assessed on value, quality, safety, comfort, practicality, performance and handling.

Head judge and National Drive Editor Toby Hagon said the C250 CDI

Skoda Yeti 103TDI

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BlueEfficiency stood out for its frugal four-cylinder diesel and advanced fuel saving and safety technology. The winner of Car of the Year and 13 category winners was announced at a breakfast hosted by Tim Webster in Sydney in late November.

“The C-Class has always been a great car, but the addition of a punchy, fuel efficient new diesel engine in the C250 CDI combined with additional standard equipment make it a standout in a hotly contested part of the luxury car market,” Mr. Hagon said.

“The C250 diesel is loaded with technology, including an engine stop-start system and various optional safety features.

“It’s the first time a diesel-powered car has won Drive Car of the Year, which is indicative of the shift towards more fuel efficient vehicles as diesel has come a long way and is no longer just a truck fuel.”

category winners, including the Car of the Year and the Best Luxury Over $80,000, the Audi A6 3.0 TDI, run on diesel.

“At less than $70,000 it shows how quickly some of the most advanced safety and fuel-saving technology is working its way into more mainstream cars.

“It’s the first time a dieselpowered car has won Drive Car of the Year, which is indicative of the shift towards more fuel efficient vehicles as diesel has come a long way and is no longer just a truck fuel,” Mr. Hagon said.

“It won’t be long until these sorts of technologies become commonplace on everyday cars,” he added.

European cars won nine of the 13 categories, with the Ford Territory the only locally built winner.

The Mazda BT-50 Dual Cab and the Ford Ranger Double Cab shared victory in the Safety Innovation Award for bringing passenger car-levels of safety to the increasingly popular dual cab ute segment. With six airbags and stability control the Ranger and BT-50 lead their class for occupant protection. Showing a move towards greater fuel efficiency, six of the 13

Mazda3 SP20 won the Green Innovation Award for its advanced new engine that brings fuel-saving stop-start technology to a mainstream small car that sells for less than $30,000.

The annual Drive Car of the Year Awards provide the ultimate consumer guide to the best cars in Australia, awarding winners across 13 major vehicle categories.

of the Year Drive Car of the Year 2011 winners Car of the Year: Mercedes-Benz C250 CDI BlueEfficiency Best City Car: Volkswagen Polo 77TSI (for the second consecutive year) Best Small Car: Ford Focus Trend hatch Best Family Car: Ford Mondeo Zetec EcoBoost Best SUV Under $40,000: Skoda Yeti 103TDI Best SUV Over $40,000: Ford Territory TS RWD

Mercedes-Benz C250 CDI BlueEfficiency

Best 4WD: Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo diesel Best Ute: Mazda BT-50 XT 4x4 Dual Cab Best Luxury Under $80,000: Mercedes-Benz C250 CDI BlueEfficiency Best Luxury Over $80,000: Audi A6 3.0 TDI Best Performance Under $60,000: Megane Renault Sport 250 Cup Trophee

Volkswagen Polo 77TSI

Ford Focus Trend hatch

Best Performance Over $60,000: Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe Best Convertible: Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet Best People Mover: Honda Odyssey Safety Innovation Award: Mazda BT-50 Dual Cab and Ford Ranger Double Cab Green Innovation Award: Mazda3 SP20

Ford Mondeo Zetec EcoBoost

Audi A6 3.0 TDI

People’s Choice Award: Audi A6 3.0 TDI motor trader queensland

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Superannuation Fraud: Identity Theft

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dentity theft is an increasingly popular crime - there’s a new victim almost every minute. It’s important to take steps to protect yourself otherwise critical information about you could be stolen- including your super account details. If your identity is stolen, you could spend months or even years cleaning up the mess.

Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to better protect your account against fraud.

• Check your MTAA Super account online regularly (like you would for your bank accounts) - Check that all the transactions match what you believe should be occurring

- Check the address and other personal details are correct • Check your Annual Superannuation Statement - Make sure it shows only the transactions you have authorised on your account - Securely store personal information at home.

You should destroy any personal information by first tearing, cutting or shredding anything that you don’t want to keep.

• Lock your letterbox - If you are away from home for an extended time, have your mail held at the Post Office.

Stolen mail is an easy way to access information about you.

A missing letter could indicate it was taken from your letterbox or your billing address has been changed. Please call us on 1300 362 415 if you stop receiving your statements.

• If any of your personal details change please let us know so we can continue to send you regular updates • Be wary about giving your personal or financial information to anybody with whom you have not initiated contact.

- Anybody contacting you out of the blue and asking for your superannuation details is most probably

attempting a scam. Your super fund may contact you if there is suspected fraudulent activity with your accounts, but they do not ask you to give them details that they already hold.

• Be wary of offers to release superannuation benefits to you before retirement. These offers could be illegal and you may end up having to pay heavy tax and legal penalties.

For more information about MTAA Super please contact us on 1300 362 415 or visit our website www. mtaasuper.com.au .

To find out more about MTAA Super, you can contact your local representative: • Peter 0419 655 254 • Diedre 0407 732 660 • Lynne 0409 995 868 Email: mtaasuper@mtaasuper.com.au Phone: 1300 362 415 Visit: www.mtaasuper.com.au.

Lynne Wilkinson

Diedre Bell

Peter Jones

This documenthas is issued by thebyMotor Trades Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Limited (ABN 14 008 650FSEL0001069), 628, AFSL 238 718) of Trustee Level company 3, 39 Brisbane This information been prepared the Motor TradesAssociation Association ofofAustralia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (ABN 14 008 650 628,AFSL 238718, an Approved engaged Avenue Barton ACT Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund 74 559 365information 913, SPINcontained MTA0100AU).

Motor Trades Association Australiahowever, Superannuation solely in managing MTAA2600, Super for the benefit of its members.

All care has been taken(ABN to ensure that the in this article is correct at the time of thisof publication, neither the Fund Limited has interests in Industry Super Pty ME Bank PtyonLtd Superpartners Pty(ABN Ltd.74559365913, RSER10004373) TrusteePty of MTAA Super norownership its advisors accept responsibility for any errorHoldings or misprint, norLtd, for anyone acting thisand information.

MTAA Super The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific financial needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), an important document containing all the information you need to make a decision about MTAA Super, can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.

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motor trader queensland

Does your super fund tick all the right boxes?

Low fees No commissions Run only to benefit members

MTAA Super is the Industry SuperFund for the Motor Industry and anyone can join.

For more information visit 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 motor trader queensland 25 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.

sport Bosch ARC expands to six rounds in 2012

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he Bosch Australian Rally Championship has announced its calendar for 2012 with six events scheduled, starting with the revolutionary new Rally Calder in March and finishing in Victoria in November.

The 2012 Bosch ARC will usher in a new era with the introduction of an SUV series alongside separate championships for both twowheel drive and four-wheel drive cars.

The 2012 series will mark the last year four wheel drive turbo rally cars will be able to score points, with the 2013 Championship to be open only to two wheel drive machines.

2012 bosch australian rally championship Calendar* Round 1.

Calder Park, Vic: 2-4 March Round 2.

Quit Forest Rally, WA: 31 March-1 April Round 3.

Iroq, Qld: 26-27 May (Aprc) Round 4.

Scouts Rally, SA: 28-29 July Round 5.

Coffs Harbour, nsw: 13-14 October Round 6.

Victoria: 9-10 November * subject to final approval by cams

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The all new ‘stadium’ event at Rally Calder opens the 2012 Bosch ARC on the first weekend in March (1- 4) before the Championship moves across the continent to Western Australia for the Quit Forest Rally in Busselton from 30 March to 1 April, with round three the International Rally of Queensland in Caloundra from 25-27 May; round four will be the Scouts Rally SA in the Adelaide Hills on 27-29 July ahead of round five; the Coffs Forest Rally on the NSW Coffs Coast on 12-14 October with the final round, Rally Victoria in the WarrigalMt Baw Baw region of Victoria, east of Melbourne on 9-10 November.

According to Scott Pedder, the calendar reflects the desire for the Championship to grow at a sustainable rate ensuring interest in the

“We could have scheduled seven or eight events next year, however that would have taxed resources and the commitment of competitors at this stage in the expansion of the series." series expands in a way that will guarantee a healthy future with more participants, sponsors and spectators.

“The Bosch ARC is taking a cautious approach despite the very encouraging growth we have had this year and will add one new event in 2012 although that new event, Rally Calder, is a pretty radical and out there concept,” said Mr. Pedder.

“We could have scheduled seven or eight events next year, however that would have taxed resources and the commitment of competitors at this stage in the expansion of the series.

“I was very conscious of being able to walk before we try to run because the reality is that the Bosch ARC is in a very strong rebuilding phase and it would be easy to overload and create problems that would be counter productive to our longer term goals.

“Growth has been phenomenal this year with entries across the five round series up by better than 70 percent compared with the 2010 Championship, despite the fact that last year’s series ran over six rounds.

“Every rally in the series has

registered strong growth this year with an average of 46 entries on every round of the Bosch ARC this year, up by more than 100 percent on the average of 22 entries on 2010 ARC rounds.

“This has been on the back of initiatives such as the Rallyschool.com.au Australian Junior Challenge and the inclusion of strong fields from the crowd pleasing Classic Rally Cars.

“With the new SUV series and the prospect of new teams entering the 2012 Bosch ARC, we are looking to further expand the fields in the coming year, particularly with the new format at Rally Calder,” he concluded.

Solid win for the Evans’

M

azda Australia’s rallybred Mazda3 MPS, piloted by champion driver Simon Evans, has taken out the showroom category in the 2011 Targa High Country held in Victoria’s alpine region.

A consistent drive from Evans and his co-driving wife

Sue saw the couple dominate the hotly contested showroom field straight off the line and finish the two day, 217 kilometre rally an impressive three minutes and seven seconds ahead of their closest rival.

This is a result made even more impressive given it was the couple’s debut outing in the potent, yet ever-reliable Mazda3 MPS. “We just couldn’t be happier,” said Simon Evans.

“The Mazda3 MPS handles like an absolute dream.

“It’s really stable on the road, which makes it easy to drive quickly, and by the end of the event we felt really at home in the car.

“Towards the end our tyres were looking pretty shabby but the Mazda3 MPS let us keep pushing until we made it back up the mountain” he added.

The four-time Australian Rally Champion duo were not to be deterred, rising to the challenge of Victoria’s open and flowing alpine roads spanning Mt Buller to King Valley

The second running of Targa High Country presented many challenges for the event’s 150 plus competitors who were faced with unseasonably hot weather and road surfaces on the eight stages and 90 competitive kilometres making up day one.

But the four-time Australian Rally Champion duo were not to be deterred, rising to the challenge of Victoria’s open and flowing alpine roads spanning Mt Buller to King Valley - finishing day one with a lead of one minute and 19 seconds.

Day two played into the hands of the nimble Mazda3 MPS with the hot hatch best suited to the day’s eight tight and twisting stages totaling 129 kilometres.

Taking competitors from Mt Buller to Eildon return, the technical course saw the Evans’ further consolidate their showroom domination and literally finish on a high atop of Mt Buller.

Audi backs Australian Sailing Team

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he Australian Sailing Team is pleased to announce that long-time sponsor, Audi Australia, will continue to support the team through until the end of 2012.

Audi’s support of the Australian Sailing Team stretches back to 2006 when the team was created, with the past five years being incredibly successful for both parties.

Since the relationship began the team has continued to perform at the highest level, winning 10 World Championships across a range of classes, two Olympic Gold medals and a Silver medal.

The newly-signed agreement will see Audi continue as a major co-sponsor of the Australian Sailing Team, providing support for the sailors across the country, including providing a number of A6s, Q7s and A4 Avants, with Audi also continued on next page

motor trader queensland

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sport continued from previous page

assisting in with vehicles for use in Europe.

Audi’s Managing Director, Uwe Hagen, says the premium brand welcomes the chance to work with Australia’s high performance sailors to support their path to success.

“The Australian Sailing Team has proven that they have the ability and the desire to win at any level, with several Olympic medals and World Championships under the team’s collective belt,” he said.

“With such a strong focus on sailing in Australia, it was an easy decision for Audi to continue this support of high level competitive sailing.

“We’re looking forward to following the team’s success,” Mr. Hagen added.

The next 12 months will be busy for Australia’s sailors, with major international events being held both at home and abroad. In December the eyes of the sailing world will turn to Western Australia for the Perth 2011 ISAF Sailing World Championship, with the Australian Sailing Team keen to put in a good performance on home waters.

The team will then head overseas with a number of ISAF Sailing World Cup and World Championship regattas taking place in early 2012, before heading to Weymouth in England for a shot at Gold in August 2012.

For more information on the Australian Sailing Team visit www.australiansailingteam. com.au and follow the team on Twitter at www.twitter. com/AusSailingTeam.

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never before has a rider

Reed secures long-term commitments

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woTwo Motorsports’ Chad Reed has hit the ground running since returning to the USA, announcing one of the most important partnerships of his career.

Just hours after arriving in California, Reed put pen to paper, cementing his team’s future, with increased support from American Honda for 2012 and beyond.

The Australian, who started TwoTwo Motorsports from scratch just 12 months ago is excited to be expanding his relationship with American Honda and welcomed the consistency that would come from multiple years with the manufacturer.

TwoTwo Motorsports will now have access to a myriad of resources, from design to

started a team with

such success

manufacturing, with the team to be housed at American Honda’s Californian Racing facility, directly next door to the Factory Motocross team.

Honda’s multi year commitment to the team show they have confidence that the team’s success will continue.

“In some ways this feels like redemption,” Reed said.

“We are very excited to have TwoTwo Motorsports continue with Honda for 2012 and 2013,” said American Honda Race Team Director Ray Conway.

“In the beginning the support from American Honda was limited, which was completely understandable given we were a new team without any runs on the board.

“Our new relationship with American Honda holds so much potential and for me it is a money can’t buy partnership to be associated with a manufacturer that is as equally committed to winning as we are,” he said.

Never before has a rider started a team with such success and American

“Chad enjoyed a tremendous level of success in 2011, his first year ever on Honda CFR450R racing machines.

“We are all anticipating that his level of success will only increase during the coming year as he and his team continue to build on the great foundation they’ve already established,” Conway said.

Whilst fans and industry insiders were expecting the

announcement of a second rider Reed opted to recruit two key personnel to TwoTwo Motorsports for 2012.

Renowned motorcycle engineer Mike Gosselaar has joined the team as Technical Director and Sergio Avento has taken up the role of Research and Development Manager.

“As a rider, I am responsible for my own performance and I expect to go out there and win, anything else is second best,” Reed said.

“With a team situation there are so many other things that can affect an outcome, but it was the sheer hard work and dedication of my crew this year that ensured none of those factors influenced our performance.

“Recruiting Goose & Sergio will further strengthen that dynamic and provide the additional resources we need to continue building a solid infrastructure around the team,” Reed said.

After working with Reed in 2009 Gosselaar said he was looking forward to teaming up with the Australian again.

“It’s a great feeling to be part of this program knowing we’re growing into becoming one of the top premier teams,” Gosselaar said.

Superbike Championship Awards Night

The Judd Greedy Memorial Award for Privateer Supersport, presented by Julie Greedy and Tracy Osterfield, was awarded to Aaron Gobert.

he 2011 national road racing champions were crowned as a tight-knit community of riders, teams, sponsors and media gathered at the QBE Australian Superbike Championships’ presentation at Melbourne’s Crown Casino on 21st November.

The Kirk McCarthy Memorial Award, presented

by Phil Tainton, was awarded to Nicholas Waters while the Reece Bancell Memorial Award presented by Jill and David Bancell was awarded to Michael Lockhart.

T

The ‘Night of Champions’ was a chance to reflect upon the competition and more importantly, the camaraderie that the industry enjoys.

The gala evening opened with a special performance

by Shannon Noll before the accolades flowed for each individual class.

Australian Motorcycle World Champion Wayne Gardner and late motorcycle journalist Ken Wootton were honoured with lifetime achievement awards for their services to the sport.

This year three memorial awards were presented in honour of the sport’s fallen heroes.

For the second year, Hidden Valley Raceway won the Event of the Year Award, and the award for Best Presented Team was won by the i-Style Natural Aprilia Team.

Josh Waters received the inaugural Australian Motorcycle News Ken Wootton Rider of the Year,

with the Suzuki rider acknowledging he was honoured to be the first person to win the award.

QBE Australian Superbike Champion Glenn Allerton was officially crowned and was also the deserving winner of Australian Motorcycle News Australian Superbike Privateer Cup. “I am really happy to take out the championship for the BMW Procon Maxima team,” said Allerton.

While many of the award recipients are rising stars of the sport, the series also bid farewell to retiring racer Craig Coxhell who finished runner-up in the Australian Motorcycle News Australian Superbike Privateer Cup. “It was a really good night and had such a good turnout,” Coxhell said.

“Everyone at GAS Honda had a great time and I was over the moon that I was able to speak onstage and have the opportunity to say goodbye to continued on next page

Glenn Allerton and the Procon Maxima BMW team

“It’s also awesome to be back working with American Honda again and great to be supported 100% by them.

“Bring on 2012,” Gosselaar added.

Reed will spend the coming months in California testing with his TwoTwo Motorsports team as they prepare for the opening round of the 2012 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship, which will be held at Anaheim’s Angel Stadium on Saturday January 7, 2012. motor trader queensland

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sport continued from previous page

everyone,” he added.

Linden Magee swept the Australian Prostock awards finishing 1st in the Dunlop Australian Prostock C&D Championship, 1st in the Honda Australian Prostock Challenge and 2nd in Honda Australian Prostock Championship.

“It was a really successful night and I had a great time,” said Magee.

“It was pretty good to receive awards for all three classes as I exceeded my expectations.

“Thanks to IEG for putting together such a great night and a great year,” Magee added.

Yarrive Konsky, Managing Director of the International Entertainment Group, promoters of the Australian Superbike Championship, congratulated the attending community on a successful year on and off the track.

“2011 saw the Australian Superbike Championships take another step forward and we were privileged to be able to witness our world-class racers do battle,” said Konsky.

“Our riders and teams have shown skill and professionalism, while retaining that Aussie brand of sportsmanship that endears us to so many.

“We recognise the efforts of all involved, and particularly thank the partners as without them this year would not have been possible.

“Planning is underway to make 2012 an even bigger and better year for the Australian Superbike Championships,” Konsky concluded.

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Australian GT Championships 2012

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he Australian GT Championship is set to fire in 2012 with a seven round series that will feature three of the key V8 Supercar events and four of the Shannon’s National rounds.

Round one of the championship will kick off at the Clipsal 500 in March, with a 60 minute twilight race, and a 30 minute sprint race. The following four rounds will be mini - enduro events, with 2 x one hour races on the Shannon’s Series, featuring optional driver changes, and compulsory timed pit stops. The Championship will then move to the Gold Coast for the Armor All 600, wrapping up at Homebush in Sydney with the Telstra 500 for the final round, both events featuring races with pit stops.

“We are extremely excited about the 2012 season,” said SPHERIX’S Craig Nayda, the category administrator.

Australian GT Championships 2012 Calendar March 1-4, Adelaide, V8 Supercar, Clipsal 500, 1 x 1hr & 1 x 30min May 25-27, Phillip Island, Shannons Nationals, 2 x 1hr June 22-24, Winton, Shannons Nationals, 2 x 1hr July 13-15, Eastern Creek, Shannons Nationals, 2 x 1hr Sept 21-23, Phillip Island, Shannons Nationals, 2 x 1hr Oct 19-21, Surfers Paradise, V8 Supercar, Gold Coast 600, 2 x 40 mins Nov 30–Dec 2, Homebush, V8 Supercar, Sydney 500, 2 x 40 mins “The calendar delivers what the competitors have been asking for in longer race formats, while also featuring on three of the marquee V8 Supercar events,” he added.

All rounds will be televised through the free to air SPEED Channel and internationally through Motor World.

The four mini-enduro rounds will also count towards the

CAMS Tourist Trophy, a prestigious Australian Sports Car trophy previously won by Sir Stirling Moss and a host of international sports car drivers.

New cars for 2012 include the Ford GT40 of Adelaide’s Kevin Weeks, Roger Lago’s Lamborghini LP600, Peter Edwards Ferrari 458 Italia GT3, and a second Mercedes - Benz SLS AMG GT3 to be driven by James Brock for Erebus Racing. Newly crowned 2011 Champ Mark Eddy is also rumoured to be shopping for a 2011 spec Audi R8 to defend his title next year.

The Australian GT Championship is a National motor racing series pitting some of the world’s most exotic and exciting race cars against each other in a mix of sprint and endurance race formats on some of Australia’s most challenging circuits including the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit and the street circuits of Adelaide Parklands and the Gold Coast.

automobile news Pajero Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) has announced increased safety and luxury appointments to the legendary Pajero range as part of the model year 2012 updates. With reversing cameras now available on most variants and a number of exterior and interior changes, the 2012 Pajero family boasts functionality, safety and style. Outside, Mitsubishi’s popular Pajero receives an updated look for model year 2012 with the addition of a stylish new front bumper and radiator grille to all variants along with new design 18-inch alloys on the VRX and Exceed models to complement the sleek fresh-look Pajero front.

The MINI Roadster The MINI Roadster, the sixth model in the British premium carmaker’s current lineup, gives the small car segment another innovative shot in the arm. The typically MINI interpretation of a compact roadster embodies unadulterated sportiness and spontaneous urban driving fun under the open sky. Powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology with model-specific tuning see to it that the characteristic MINI go-kart feeling is always on tap. And the MINI Roadster’s classical soft-top roof, which can be easily opened and closed manually, ensures open-top driving pleasure can be lapped up at every opportunity.

i-MiEV selling in Australia Mitsubishi’s all-electric i-MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle) city car is now on sale to the Australian public. The car first arrived in Australia in July last year, when 110 were leased to local, state and federal governments and selected innovative organisations. The i-MiEV went on sale to individuals in September this year, making it the first volume-produced, fully electric vehicle for sale in Australia.

MMAL’s president and CEO, Genichiro Nishina, said the recommended retail price of $48,800 gives Australian consumers the opportunity to own the latest EV technology while reducing their carbon footprint at an affordable price. motor trader queensland

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Yeti Yeti – the fifth and newest member of the ŠKODA family – is finally coming in from the cold. Combining all the rugged strengths of a traditional 4x4 with the practicality and running costs of a hatchback, Yeti is a true crossover vehicle. Its mix of two and four-wheel drive, diesel and petrol engines, flexible seating arrangements, high driving position and bold styling mean that, unlike its legendary namesake, Yeti is as at home conquering the urban jungle as it is in the wilderness.

ECOnetic The Ford Fiesta ECOnetic, is now even more fuel efficient courtesy of the latest refinements to its unique package of fuel-saving ‘ECOnetic’ technologies. With a new combined fuel consumption rating of just 3.6 litres per 100 kilometres – an improvement of 2.7 per cent – it also produces a new official CO2 emission rating of 95 grams per kilometre – an improvement of 3.1 per cent. To achieve its ultra-low CO2 emissions, the Fiesta ECOnetic has incorporated a range of simple modifications that include low rolling resistance tyres, improved aerodynamics and a modified engine calibration.

VW Cabriolet Volkswagen is introducing a new generation of its open-air bestseller to the cities, streets and beaches. It offers all the advantages of a Golf – one of the most awarded cars in the world. And one more advantage as well: the soft top opens fully automatically in just 9.0 seconds, and this can be done while driving up to 30 km/h. And what happens in autumn when the Golf top is closed and summer is over? The answer is clear: the four-seat Volkswagen is a versatile, year-round cabriolet thanks to its practical traits and the sophisticated design of its soft top.

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