Ignition Magazine Australia | February 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

APPRENTICE APPRECIATION 2021 Capricorn Rising Stars nominations open

FUTURE RIDE

AUDI AI:TRAIL

WONDERFUL ESCAPADES HAVE RETURNED IN 2021 Enjoy the stunning views in beautiful Broome and Kangaroo Island

BIG FUN AND FUNCTION

Mercedes-Benz AMG A35 4MATIC review.

RIGHT TO REPAIR LEGISLATION

Service and Repair Information Sharing.

WOOLWORTHS AT WORK

Get your groceries on your Capricorn Account.

David Fraser Group CEO

CEO’s message

Hard work Hard has its work rewards. has its rewards.

Welcome to 2021. I hope you have had a wonderful Christmas and New Year period.

It is with great joy that we look forward to the fresh start 2021 will hopefully bring. And there is no better way to start the year than with our Capricorn Rising Stars competition for our apprentices. It only takes 5 minutes to nominate and is a great way to encourage your apprentice, and keep them committed to a career in auto.

For more information on Capricorn Rising Stars, see page 6.

Whilst we may have left 2020 behind, unfortunately COVID-19 is still lingering and causing issues for Australia Post. We have had reports of delivery delays throughout Australia causing some Capricorn Member statements to be delayed. To avoid any frustration and to give yourself the maximum amount of time to pay for your Preferred Supplier purchases, I would like to remind all Members that they can access their statement through their Capricorn myCap Portal from the first week of every month.

For more information, see page 4.

We may be fashionably late; however, we are very excited to say Capricorn has joined Facebook. We are looking forward to engaging with our Members and Preferred Suppliers and using this channel to support our industry to be stronger together. Come and join us, using the information on page 18.

We are also very excited to announce that we have partnered with Woolworths. Woolworths at Work brings you a new way to get your groceries and everyday essentials. Make sure to register early to begin using Woolworths at Work when it launches on February 8. For more information, see our back cover.

Also in this month’s Ignition you will find: Events are slowly returning to Capricorn in line with each state’s COVID-19 regulations. The Travel & Events team have put together wonderful Escapades in South Australia and Western Australia. More on both on pages 9 and 12.

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Finally, Jeff Smit from TatBiz investigates whether you are providing your staff access to adequate technical information. More on this on page 12.

I wish you a wonderful start to 2021 and look forward to speaking with you next month.

Yours cooperatively,

David Fraser Group CEO

2 CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021

Coming Together to Support One Another Find valuable COVID-19 resources to support your business.

Visit COVID Support at capricorn.coop/campaigns/ covid-support

CONTENTS

RECOGNISE EFFORT | REWARD HARD WORK | RETAIN FUTURE LEADERS

FEBRUARY 2021

4

Right to Repair Legislation

The intention to introduce The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme announced.

CAPRICORN

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

Stars 4

Access Your Statements Online

Give yourself more time by accessing your statement online.

6

Apprentice Appreciation

Capricorn Rising Stars nominations open, with cash and prizes up for grabs.

10

6 13

Big Fun and Function

Does the Mercedes-Benz AMG A35 4MATIC Sedan deliver on its promises?

NOMINATE YOUR APPRENTICE AT CAPRICORNRISINGSTARS.COM

AAAA highlights the importance of including telematics to the Right to Repair legislation to futureproof the new act.

$20,000 IN CASH AND PRIZES UP FOR GRABS! ENTRIES CLOSE 30 APRIL 2021

14 Future Ride

For more information visit capricorn.coop/tc and click on ‘Capricorn Rising Stars 2021 Terms and Conditions’.

Rising Stars 2021 A4 Poster.indd 1

Telematics in Legislation

18/01/2021 11:40:18 AM

Is this the future of four-wheel driving?

Audi AI:TRAIL.

22 TaT Article

Are you providing your staff with access to adequate technical information?

24

Transform Your Workplace

How creating a great culture can transform your workplace.

14 CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 3

RIGHT TO REPAIR LEGISLATION The Federal Government has announced their intention to introduce The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme to Parliament in early 2021.

The new law makes mandatory that all service and repair information car manufacturers share with their dealership networks in Australia must also be made available for independent repairers and registered trading organisations to purchase at a fair market price. The news comes after nearly a decade of campaigning by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA).

Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar said the planned reforms "establish a level playing field for all participants in the automotive service and repair sector, increasing competition and consumer choice."

There is a short consultation period. Consultation finishes at the end of January 2021 with the law expected to be introduced to Parliament soon afterwards.

For more information visit aaaa.com.au

ACCESS YOUR STATEMENTS ONLINE Give yourself more time by accessing your statement online Capricorn would like to remind all Members that their monthly statements are available from the first week of every month in their Capricorn myCap Portal.

Accessing your statements online will reduce any affects of continuing delivery delays by Australia Post due to COVID-19.

Members can access their statements by logging into Capricorn.coop with their Member number and password and visiting ‘Statements & Docs’ in the left-hand menu.

By accessing statements via the myCap Portal, Members can view and download their statement as soon as it becomes available and are less reliant on postage delivery times.

4 CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021

Access statements by logging into Capricorn.coop and visit ‘Statements & Docs’ in the left-hand menu

Before you check anything else...

SERVICE ADVISOR

New feature shows upcoming service & repair work needed.

An exclusive Member benefit.

Capricorn Service Data gives you instant access to the most comprehensive range of online service information for over 34,000 vehicles.

Login to capricorn.coop/servicedata

RECOGNISE EFFORT | REWARD HARD WORK | RETAIN FUTURE LEADERS

CAPRICORN

APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR

Stars

NOMINATE YOUR APPRENTICE AT CAPRICORNRISINGSTARS.COM $20,000 IN CASH AND PRIZES UP FOR GRABS! ENTRIES CLOSE 30 APRIL 2021

For more information visit capricorn.coop/tc and click on ‘Capricorn Rising Stars 2021 Terms and Conditions’.

APPRENTICE APPRECIATION IN 2021

CAPRICORN RISING STARS NOMINATIONS OPEN, WITH CASH AND PRIZES UP FOR GRABS Capricorn Members are encouraged to show their apprentices they are appreciated by nominating them as a Capricorn Rising Star. It only takes 5 minutes to submit a nomination via capricornrisingstars.com and could keep your apprentice in your workshop for the next 5 years, as they are energised and enthused by the acknowledgement.

Capricorn Rising Stars is different to other apprentice of the year competitions. Instead of purely focusing on the technical proficiency of nominees, Capricorn Rising Stars prioritises rewarding apprentices who demonstrate a passion for auto, a positive can-do attitude and a strong commitment to forging a long career as a repairer.

This unique judging criteria creates a level field for first- to fourthyear apprentices across all disciplines to be able to compete against each other. It also means Members can nominate any of their apprentices who demonstrate outstanding character and potential as they continue to learn the ropes and further develop their skills.

Capricorn CEO Automotive and judging panel member, Brad Gannon said Capricorn Rising Stars continues to be an important initiative to help stop the loss of apprentices to other industries.

“The shortage of mechanics remains a challenge faced by our industry. We also know that completing an auto repair apprenticeship is no easy undertaking. Through Capricorn Rising Stars we are providing an opportunity for our Members to acknowledge their apprentice’s efforts and reward them for their hard work. By showing our apprentices that they have a bright future ahead of them, we can help keep them committed to their workshops and the auto repair industry more broadly.”

Every apprentice nominated will receive a certificate that is sent to their workshop. An additional $20,000 in cash and prizes will be shared by the Overall Winner, Top 5 Finalists and the workshops that nominated them.

Cash and prizes up for grabs include: Overall Winner: • $5,000 cash from Castrol • Capricorn Rising Stars trophy • Plus everything the Top 5 Finalists receive

Top 5 Finalists: • $1,000 cash from Castrol • $1,000 Repco voucher • Tickets to two Repco Masterclasses Workshops who nominate the Top 5 Finalists will also be rewarded with a 12-month Repco Autopedia subscription.

Additionally, the Overall Winner’s workshop will receive enrolment in the Workshop Whisperer’s Service Advisor Pro online program (valued at $3,000 plus GST).

Capricorn thanks long-term program sponsors Castrol, Repco and the Workshop Whisperer, who have donated these fantastic prizes.

For more information on the Capricorn Rising Stars competition including competition Terms and Conditions, visit capricornrisingstars.com.

NOMINATE YOUR APPRENTICE AT CAPRICORNRISINGSTARS.COM ENTRIES CLOSE 30 APRIL 2021

CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 7

IT’S DIFFERENT. Mutual Protection provided through Capricorn Risk Services is custom made for auto trades.

Join us!

Get the right cover for the right price.

See how you’re better off with mutual protection from Capricorn Risk Services.

1800 007 022 | info@capricornrisk.com | capricornrisk.com Products sold through Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd (ABN 93 111 632 789) are: (i) discretionary risk protection products issued by Capricorn Mutual Ltd; and (ii) general insurance products issued by a range of insurers and brokered through Capricorn Insurance Services Pty Ltd. Before deciding to acquire any product you should consider the Product Disclosure Statement available from Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd to see if the product is appropriate for you.

Capricorn Risk Services Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 460893) of Capricorn Mutual Ltd (AFSL 230038) and Capricorn Insurance Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 435197).

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Login to capricorn.coop and click on the ‘Events’ tab to register *Flights are not included. Price is per person in a twin share and is subject to availability. Contact Capricorn Travel on 1800 655 077 or email travel@capricorn.coop for full package details or to book flights. Capricorn Travel Australia Pty Ltd / ACN 008 926 645 / ATAS Accreditation No: A10552

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Big Fun and Function

THE MERCEDES-BENZ AMG A35 4MATIC SEDAN

by Paul Marinelli

T

here are cars that make all the claims and there are others that just deliver in spades. The Mercedes-Benz AMG A35 4MATIC sedan definitely fits within the second category.

Who would have thought you can own one of the worldrenowned line-up of Mercedes-Benz premium performance vehicles at under $75K, stacked with everything you need and much more?

While some may claim this first-ever A Class sedan sits at the lower end of the AMG family, there is nothing lower end about this car’s performance, nor its number of design and comfort features, particularly when you compare it against other cars within its price and performance specification range.

The A35’s AMG designed 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine is insanely powerful. It develops 225 kW of power and 400Nm of Torque, making the 0-100 kmh sprint in 4.8 seconds. Trust me, when you kick down the throttle on this car, you know about it big time.

The beauty of the entire Mercedes-Benz AMG range is if you want to drive them nice and easy, you can in Comfort mode.

But this model also features a Winter mode that enables less engine power for slippery conditions and optimum highway fuel economy. This makes the car even easier to drive for those extremely rare occasions when you may want to share the AMG driving duties.

When you want to unleash the unabated power of this incredible 2.0 Litre turbo engine, flick over to Sport mode or the animalistic Sport Plus mode and, along with a very noticeable change in exhaust noise, you have instant power coupled with a perfectly mated seven speed gearbox (with large AMG steering-mounted gear change paddles). The outstanding 4Matic all-wheel drive system shuffles power delivery to where it is most needed for remarkable torque distribution and road holding. Four pot front brake calipers and large ventilated discs all round ensure the A35 sedan stops impressively as well.

The interior reflects the sporting nature of all AMG models, with a detailed array of electronic settings to customise the driving experience, even including specific LED lighting, air conditioning and automatic seat and audio kinetics settings for relaxation or vitalisation.

Touch screen controls are detailed and easy to get your head around after a bit of practice.

The high-resolution screen (that extends from the driver’s side to the centre of the car) looks incredible with many customisation settings: engine power/consumption readings with various mode changes available that completely change the look of the screen information, including the driver’s side digital instrumentation layout. My test car also had a headsup (windscreen) display system which could also be customised to best suit.

The large screen area also allows for a large navigation screen, DAB radio station selection, and detailed phone integration. A track pad is also available to control the functions on the centre console, in tandem with touch screen operation.

If the array of features gets too much to operate manually, you simply say “Hey, Mercedes” and tell the car what to do. I found this worked well, including operating the navigation system, switching settings, making phone calls, and the best ever – being able to tell it “I’m cold” or “I’m hot” and it will adjust the internal temperature automatically.

Aesthetically, the internal LED lighting makes a major difference with its multi-coloured animation, colour selections, and relaxation or vitalisation lighting settings , the kids just loved it – as did the big kids who rode in the car.

Steering wheel mounted controls for each of the four adaptive driving modes, suspension settings, auto engine off system, plus all cruise control, telephone and verbal command settings really give it that racing car feel. This has been achieved while ensuring that it all works ergonomically as well. It is a firm and extremely accurate steering experience that adapts according to the driving mode. The drive assist/lane assist system on the freeways in cruise control is truly remarkable.

Parking is also remarkable, utilising numerous cameras around the car to provide an overhead/surround view of the front, sides and rear of the car on your large screen, making manual parking a breeze. Or if you want, you can let the car look for a spot and park itself semi-automatically.

The premium-quality leather seats are comfortable, with full electronic controls for the driver and front passenger. They feature electric kinetic movement and are heated as well.

1 0 CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021

You are getting Porschestyle performance with far greater comfort

If there was one concern with this car, it only applies if you have growing teenage children or adults to drive around, as the rear seat space is very limited in leg room, knee room and headroom.

Even though highway ride comfort was excellent in this car, (although being a high-performance car with high-performance tyres, there is some road noise at highway speeds), there is little doubt that over a long trip, sitting in the rear would become uncomfortable for taller children or adults simply due to a lack of space.

The boot space is massive for a car of its size, while the overall compact styling gives the appearance of a mere mortal sedan, that is of course until you drive, see or hear it on the road up close. With a claimed combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres, the A35 is not a big drinker when cruising smoothly. But of course once you push it, just like all high-performance cars, forget about fuel economy and enjoy the thrilling ride.

The Mercedes-Benz AMG A35 4MATIC sedan is packed with value. This review doesn’t crack the surface of all the features of this extremely well-engineered, compact highperformance sedan. It is an excellent first step for people like me who have aspired to own an AMG model before becoming too old to enjoy it!

You are getting Porsche-style performance with far greater comfort and practical use at far lower cost, coupled with a fiveyear warranty and 12-month scheduled service intervals. It’s well worth taking for a drive if you are looking for outstanding performance, good looks and an insane level of functionality at a cost that is unprecedented in this range.

CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 1 1

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A CAPRICORN DIRECTOR? •

Are you looking for personal growth and your next challenge?

•

Do you want to use your experience and industry knowledge to give back to the automotive industry?

•

Would you like to be part of the team that helps shape the future of Capricorn?

If you answered YES to those questions, then becoming a Capricorn director could be the right fit for you.

Capricorn will be looking for energetic and passionate members to join our board of directors. In 2021, director elections will be held for a director in the New South Wales/ACT zone to fill a vacant director position and one for the Victoria/Tasmania zone.

For the elections in 2021, we are introducing a couple of initiatives to provide Members with more information about what it means to be a Capricorn director.

First, we will be holding an online information session at which Russell Becker, Capricorn’s previous chairman and current NSW/ACT director will provide insights into what it means to be a Capricorn director.

These events will not take place until later this year and will be hosted at separate times, however, we wanted to flag it now so you could register your interest with us. Participation in these events is not limited to NSW/ACT and VIC/TAS Members, so even if your zone election is not soon, you might still want to attend one or both events.

If you think you might be interested, please email sarah.chamberlain@capricorn.coop and we will make sure we keep you informed.

Will Bargmann Company Secretary

Second, we will be hosting a minigovernance course so Members can learn more about the role of the board and the requirements to be a director. Again, this event will be hosted virtually.

BIG business LET’S TALK

Refer a new Commercial/ Heavy Vehicle business to receive

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We want more Members from the heavy diesel, bus, fleet, trucking, transport and other commercial vehicle sectors.

The more Members join Capricorn, the more Members benefit.

Contact your Area Manager to find out how you can participate.

RIGHT TO REPAIR LEGISLATION SHOULD INCLUDE TELEMATICS TO FUTUREPROOF LAW

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) says Australia should follow the lead of the US state of Massachusetts and include telematics in the draft legislation that will require car companies to share all motor vehicle service and repair information.

The CEO of the AAAA, Stuart Charity, said including telematics in the draft legislation will help futureproof the law.

“Massachusetts passed the Right to Repair Act in 2012 and had to go back and vote to include telematics.

“We believe that if our legislation doesn’t include telematics, it could be redundant by the time it passes through the Senate.

We should learn from the experience of our US colleagues and only vote once,” Mr Charity said.

The proposed Right to Repair law is designed to provide a fairer playing field for the repair and service of the 74 automotive brands available in Australia in an industry worth $25 billion annually. The law will compel car manufacturers to share all mechanical repair and service information with the independent auto repair sector on “fair and reasonable commercial terms”.

It will affect the 30,000 independent repairers and the 150,000 technicians in Australia who service vehicles.

Mr Charity said the car companies supporting the “no” vote in Massachusetts spent $26 million on a fear campaign which failed.

“This reform is about mechanical data, not personal data, and they tried to confuse the voters that their personal data will be compromised. That just isn’t the case either here or in the US.”

that despite advances in technology, owners will be able to have their repair data shared directly with their trusted independent shops. This a clear win for the Right to Repair Coalition that is comprised of thousands of shops throughout the state.

The Federal Government has announced their intention to introduce The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing S che me to Parliament in early 2021

The AAAA sits on the Global Auto R2R Coalition representing Australia. “ We congratulate our colleagues at the Auto Care Association in America, particularly the leadership of Bill Hanvey, the President and CEO, and Aaron Lowe, the senior vicepresident of government relations,” Mr Charity said.

Mr Hanvey said: “Approval of the relevant sections ensures that car owners can control the mechanical data that is being transmitted by their vehicle through telematics. This referendum also means CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 1 3

FUTURE RIDE

“

Audi plans for customers to be able to order any of their specialist vehicles ondemand from Audi to suit their requirements

“

Is THIS THE FUTUrE OF FOUr-WHEEL DRIVING? AUDI AI:TRAIL 1 4 CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021

This month we wanted to show you a four-wheel drive so futuristic it includes a good dash of artificial i nte l l i g e n ce , a n e w a p p ro a c h to interior styling and a new concept for the headlight – the Audi AI:TRAIL. From the pictures displayed of the AI:TRAIL, you may notice the panoramic glass exterior, the high ground clearance and the utility tyres.

However, in person, the first thing you will notice is the fleet of drones accompanying this car.

Instead of traditional headlights, the AI:TRAIL includes a fleet of five rotorless, triangular, electronically operated drones called Audi Light Pathfinders. These drones fly ahead of the AI:TRAIL, illuminating the path ahead or transmitting a video image to the driver’s display.

When stationary, these drones can also illuminate the surrounding area from their position on the roof or can illuminate the interior through the transparent roof. When integrated with the AI:TRAIL’s navigation system, they are even capable of projecting directional symbols and written information onto a route to help direct drivers when exploring.

The AI:TRAIL was born from Audi’s concept of personal mobility where cars no longer have to compromise between a wide range of uses. Instead, for a limited period, Audi plans for customers to be able to order any of their specialist vehicles on-demand from Audi to suit their requirements.

This means that the AI:TRAIL has been designed for the ultimate off-road experience. With four electric motors, Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive, 22-inch wheels and a ground clearance of 34 centimetres, the AI:TRAIL is ready for any futuristic AI-assisted adventure.

The dimensions of the AI:TRAIL are important both inside and outside the car, as the ground clearance allows it to ford through water more than half a meter deep, and the chassis architecture provides the vehicle with plenty of agility without compromising the battery unit which is integrated into the floor.

Passengers relax inside the vehicle with near panoramic views of their surroundings: the windows extend down between the wheels and high enough that almost the entire roof is made of glass. Therefore, there are no screens onboard for streaming. Instead, the Audi designers wanted to offer unparalleled views of nature and the car’s surroundings to its passengers.

This lack of screens means the dashboard consists of the driver’s smartphone. With their smartphone plugged into the AI:TRAIL, the driver is ready to go with all the information normally included on a traditional dashboard now fed through a smartphone.

The AI:TRAIL also has Level 4 self-driving abilities on selected sealed roads, and Level 3 self-driving on roads and tracks that have been well mapped. However, this isn’t the only AI abilities included on the AI:TRAIL. Optical sensors and electronic stability control detect the condition of the road surface and adjust the air pressure in the tires accordingly.

The sensor system for the ESP also assists the driver when the vehicle is in a tilted position or on a challenging incline. These systems also deliver warnings to the driver when critical limits are about to be exceeded, such as ground clearance or angles of incidence.

Finally, a large draw for the AI:TRAIL is its range.

Instead of building the AI:TRAIL for speed, Audi focused its efforts on making sure the vehicle could get you where you need to go, in areas without charging infrastructure. The lithiumion battery included in the AI:TRAIL provides it with a range of 400 to 500 kilometres on roads or easy terrain. On rough ground the AI:TRAIL’s range it still 250 kilometres.

In a time when we are spending our free time exploring our own backyards, Audi may have delivered what the future of four-wheel driving could look like.

CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 1 5

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Flights and airport transfers not included. *Price is per person in a twin share and is subject to availability. **Weight restrictions of 170kg per couple. ***Cruise includes cocktail style canapes. Bar onboard at delegates own cost (drinks not included in cruise package). Contact Capricorn Travel on 1800 655 077 or email events@capricorn.coop for details or to book flights. Capricorn Travel Australia Pty Ltd / ACN 008 926 645 / ATAS Accreditation No: A10552

Capricorn Preferred Suppliers are an integral part of our cooperative model. We recognise the achievements of our high performing Capricorn Preferred Suppliers through our Million Dollar Preferred Supplier Awards.

These awards are presented to Preferred Suppliers who reach million dollar milestones in total Capricorn Member sales. It is great to see Capricorn Preferred Suppliers reaching these outstanding milestones. Congratulations to the following Preferred Suppliers.

TVH Australia TVH Australia is part of TVH Parts Holding NV, a worldwide supplier with customers in over 170 countries. As a one-stop shop they offer quality parts and accessories for material handling, industrial vehicles and agricultural equipment.

$3m

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Congratulations to TVH Australia on achieving $3 million in sales to Capricorn Members. Accepting the award is TVH Australia General Manager Daniel Brownlie who was thrilled to have achieved this milestone and is looking forward reaching many more milestones with Capricorn.

Sunshine Coast 4WD Wreckers Sunshine Coast 4WD Wreckers is situated at Yandina in the QLD Sunshine Coast Hinterland. They have been with Capricorn since 2012, growing from a small wrecking yard to a $1m Preferred Supplier.

$1m

Preferred Supplier Award

Sunshine Coast 4WD Wreckers offers a huge range of late model and older secondhand 4WD parts & panels.

Mark Adams accepted the $1m Preferred Supplier award from Capricorn Area Manager Peter Peachey.

ETP Engine Parts ETP Engine Parts are a family Business that have been a Capricorn Preferred Supplier for almost 20 years.

Bryan Steel is Ross Steel’s son, together they have consistently grown their Capricorn Sales. He happily accepted their recent $1m Preferred Supplier award.

$1m

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1 8 CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021

Family business with a decadeslong history.

Andrew and the team work on all makes and models, young and old, specialising in four-wheel drive repairs. They also make steel, rubber, or braided brake lines in-store.

Like many new business owners, Andrew was struggling to keep up with the organisation required, calling it a full-time job. “The struggle of keeping invoices and purchases in order was a nightmare,” he said. With the help of Capricorn keeping all the invoices in one place, they can now focus on the larger, greater goals.

As a family owned, independent mechanical workshop, FNQ Brake & Service Centre prides themselves on their attention to detail, meticulous care, and trustworthy advice. When Andrew bought the business in 2014, it was important to him to preserve the reputation that FNQ Brake & Service Centre had created and maintained over its decades-long history.

Located in Atherton, Queensland, FNQ Brake & Service Centre has now been a Member for over 5 years, after the previous owner recommended Capricorn to them.

When asked how Capricorn had benefited their business, Andrew wrote, “As a Capricorn Member we have found so much more time available for other aspects of business, as Capricorn takes care of so much.”

Recently their apprentice finished his training and signed the final paperwork for the completion of his trade. They are now just waiting for the final sign-off date, and the team cannot wait to celebrate this achievement!

Andrew would like other Members to know, “whether it is personal or business-related, growth is growth and Capricorn is here to help us achieve that.”

Award winning ... Fraser Automotive & Diagnostic Repairs Fraser Automotive & Diagnostic Repairs recently reached a business milestone when Daryl and the team moved into a larger workshop. This was required due to their rapidly expanding business and customer base.

They were also recently named the 'Best Mechanic’ for the Mareeba and Atherton Tableland regions by newspaper The Express. This award was earned through a popular vote of readers, which left Daryl humbled.

In his interview with The Express, Darryl said, “It’s very humbling. We’ve only been in business for seven years, so it really means a lot. We rely on word-of-mouth a lot for business and, well, it’s nice to see so many people talking about us.”

Fraser Automotive & Diagnostic Repairs is a locally owned and operated general automotive service centre. Owner Daryl’s main aim is to assist their customers to maintain safe vehicles, and to grow and maintain the trust of those customers.

Daryl would like other Capricorn Members to know that “Gone are the days where we would call ourselves just a ‘mechanic’ or ‘grease monkey’.” He notes that all Members should be confidently referring to themselves as Automotive Technicians due to the knowledge and experience required to successfully diagnose and repair modern vehicles.

CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 1 9

Capricorn Member Profiles

FNQ Brake & Service Centre

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2 0 CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021

Leadar Fire & Electrical’s focus is on ensuring your business has all compliance documentation encompassing inspection testing of all installed fire service equipment including, but not limited to, fire extinguishers, fire hose reels, fire hydrant systems, fire pumps, emergency and exit lighting and more.

SUPPLIERS Hydrosteer Pty Ltd Zone - VIC & TAS

In June 1981, a garage in East Burwood Victoria housed the humble beginnings of what would ultimately become Australia’s premier heavy vehicle power steering specialist, Hydrosteer.

Almost 40 years later Hydrosteer has earned its reputation as the vital link between Australia’s heavy vehicle manufacturing and maintenance industries after having grown to service a national distribution network.

Hydrosteer carries Australia’s largest range of heavy vehicle power steering products. This stock offering is complemented by an extensive range of mitre gears, steering wheels and oil coolers to ensure you can always achieve a smooth drive.

Hydrosteer’s drag links and slip shafts are assembled/manufactured to stringent OE quality specifications at their Bayswater manufacturing facility – where one-off production is always welcome if required.

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YEARS PREFERRED SUPPLIER

hydrosteer.com.au BENEFITS TO CAPRICORN MEMBERS • 12 Month – unlimited KM “No Argument” warranty on parts and labour • Servicing all brands of power steering equipment.

• Competitive pricing with stock availability

Mullins Wheels Zone - National

Mullins Wheels is an Australian-owned family business and leading importer, manufacturer, and wholesaler of automotive products.

Mullins Wheels was founded in Adelaide in 1905 and has grown to be a leader in the Australian wheel industry. With branches in five states and a massive range of products to suit most vehicles, Mullins Wheels is a one-stop-shop for all your wheel and rim requirements. Mullins Wheels’ brands include CSA Alloy and Steel Wheels; Globe Wheels;, Konig Wheels; Mullins Trailer Parts – MTP; RoadKing Truck Wheels and Rims; and Mullins Earthmover, Agricultural, Industrial and Mining Wheels.

• Highest quality wheel products and a website fitment guide CSA Direct • A comprehensive range of trailer parts – MTP website • Fast, efficient delivery to all metro & country locations • Friendly, local state staff & quality customer service If it moves, Mullins Wheels has a wheel to suit it.

20+

YEARS PREFERRED SUPPLIER

csadirect.com.au BENEFITS TO CAPRICORN MEMBERS • Open up new & existing sales opportunities for your business • A specialised wheel repair workshop offering repair & testing services • Competitive pricing so you can compete locally

CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 2 1

Are you providing your staff with access to adequate technical information?

- by Jeff Smit

Anyone with a few years under their belt will argue that the modern aftermarket workshop is very different to those of our apprenticeship years.

The vehicles are different and the equipment we use is different, and very high tech.

But the biggest difference is the amount of information that has to be accessed so that we can undertake repairs and diagnostics, and sometimes even for basic servicing, for late model vehicles.

The range of information is very broad, from what type of oil goes into a vehicle (which these days is critical), the torque setting for a drive shaft, the engine control unit pin out, frequency of gear oil change, where to find the multi-function control module live, how to reset service lights, how to update digital service records, and the time it should take to do a timing belt. The list is absolutely endless.

Everything mentioned above covers the straightforward data and information needed daily in all workshops. But what about the more practical help and information that needs to be instantly accessed to help us do our job, like how to use a particular function on a scan tool, what a P2096 code means on a Mazda or how to get the EGR off a VW Amarok. And the best information of all – has anyone had this issue on a Ford Ranger or Holden Captiva, and how did they fix it?

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Given that the range and depth of technical information required is huge, we have to accept that there is no single source, no one-stop provider that can meet this challenge.

So it follows that what is needed is broad access to a number of data and information providers and networks.

There are many such networks in Australia and around the world that are free to join, and these can be great information sources. But many are limited by the number of active users who subscribe to the service, and by their individual capabilities and experience.

The industry is well served by a number of quality data providers, but with the sole exception of Capricorn Service Data which Members can access free of charge, these come at a cost. However, this should not be regarded as an impediment to workshop skills, or to profitability.

All costs related to scan tools, updates and data providers should be passed on to customers. If any form of information has to be sourced to undertake a repair, it is quite legitimate for a technical or data fee to be added to the invoice.

Having access to data and information is one thing – allowing your technicians the time to use and apply this valuable well of information requires a rejig of the actual process of undertaking a service or diagnosing a problem. Two new key functions must be added to the service or repair process, and they are what we call PR – preparation and research.

Time must be allowed to prepare and research any job that needs a gathering of information and perhaps some practical advice that can speed up or ease the process – a win-win for workshop and customer. The more time a technician spends on PR, the the more accurate and quicker they will be on the job. And just like data, this time should be charged out as labour.

The best thing you can do for your workshop and your customers in 2021 is to ensure that you and your technicians have access to good data and information and address every job with a new approach to the service and repair process, to include a healthy amount of time for PR.

Many workshops have been doing this for years with no customer complaints. Information and data must be treated like oil and filters. They are essential supplies required to complete the job, so should be invoiced.

CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 2 3

How creating a great culture can transform your workplace What’s the secret to great customer service in any garage or automotive workshop?

Culture.

Actually, culture is the secret to success in any number of key performance indicators in your business – from productivity to staff retention.

Get culture right and you’re in the fast lane towards achieving your business goals.

In this article we’ll share with you some tips and advice on achieving and maintaining a great culture in your business.

What is culture?

Culture is a bit like your business’s personality. It includes the accepted behaviours, expectations, attitudes, values, ethics, and goals of not just management but everyone in the team.

Culture matters because it dictates what it feels like to work in your company, and to be your customer.

Creating a great culture isn’t about introducing a few perks, like Pizza Fridays (although that kind of thing is great). It’s about a shared mission and purpose.

Improving culture requires leadership In a recent article customer service expert Shep Hyken explained that creating a culture that sticks – where everyone on the team has bought in ¬– is really about people.

“Get the right people on the metaphorical bus, all happy to be going in the same direction, and you’re on the way to creating the culture you want,” he said.

“Leadership must decide what they want the company to be. That’s where the culture begins. It needs to be clearly articulated.”

Shep said management must create a defining statement about their service culture.

“Keep it short – one sentence or less,” he said. “Once you define it, you must live it, hire for it, train to it, and constantly remind people about it.”

Here are some tips for creating and maintaining a winning culture in your workshop.

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Tips for improving culture in your workshop Have a shared mission

Feedback is a dual-lane carriageway

Be the driver of change

Act on feedback

Bring the team along on any changes

Don’t forget to celebrate!

The highest-performing companies all have one thing in common: they each have a shared mission and purpose. That’s what Shep was talking about above. Perhaps a good one for a workshop could be “servicing our customers’ vehicles like they’re our own”? Whatever it is, define it and live by it!

Change doesn’t just happen. You need to be driving it every day. Lead by example.

Choose your language carefully when introducing changes and think carefully about the method you use to communicate them. Don’t get off to a bad start unnecessarily.

Feedback is the secret to constant improvement – and it works best when it’s encouraged both top down and bottom up. A little praise or word of encouragement can create a sense of belonging and pride, and lead to greater productivity.

Constructive feedback should be a training opportunity and a positive experience.

When feedback does come up to you from the team, listen and act on it. That way your team knows they’re valued and they have the power to bring about change.

If you have a huge and profitable week, if you achieve a business goal, if the apprentice has finally qualified – celebrate. Nothing makes a team feel like a team more than a celebration.

Hire people who fit the culture

The people on your team have a huge influence on culture. Hiring (or retaining) the wrong employee can be hugely detrimental. When you’re hiring, don’t just look for skills; look for personality and attitude.

For more articles like this one, check out Capricorn’s CapHub for exclusive articles, interviews, industry analysis and more at capricorn.coop/caphub

CAPRICORN IGNITION FEBRUARY 2021 2 5

CAPRICORN CLASSIFIEDS Classifieds Advertising Guidelines Do you have a business for sale, have equipment that you need to get rid of, or are you just looking for a part that you haven’t been able to find? If the answer is yes, then you should advertise in the Capricorn Classifieds; it’s FREE to do so. See below for details.

• The Capricorn Classifieds are for Capricorn Members only to advertise. Payment is to be organised between advertiser and purchaser.

• Parts or equipment that relate to your business only may be advertised.

• Businesses for sale may be advertised.

• Cars for sale cannot be advertised.

Truck Wheel Alignment & Mechanical Brisbane North Trading for over 46 years this fully quip 725 m² workshop situated in a high exposure position on Brisbane North. Full mechanical & wheel alignment for cars 4WD trucks buses & trailers $342,000 + SAV. Ph.0450 484 008 Premier Automotive Repairs business, Berry NSW. Established for over 20 years with loyal customers and continuous repeat business.

Great location, strong returns, this is an Ideal lifestyle business. Price on Application.

Call Steve 02 4464 3999 or 0417 251 205.

VAC Jet n Truck Services, Whyalla SA Fast growing mechanical business, Truck wheel alignment station, Air conditioning services, We are offering a full-time diesel mechanical role. Call Shayne 0476248540.

Mechanical Automotive Workshop, Gladstone QLD Well established. Owner retiring. Strong customer base. Always busy. Well equipped with plenty of room. $110,000 ONO. Ph: Michael Carr 0401 828 615.

Antique Block Boring machine,circa 1915 “Improved Universal Cylinder Reboring Tool – USA”. In very good condition. Packed in original wooden box with instructions. $1000.00.

Contact owner 07 4630 7001 Mechanical Workshop, Port Macquarie NSW. Town is booming and this great earner could be yours! Prime location, large loyal customer base, excellent google reviews. 4 hoists, wheel aligner, injector bench, scan tool etc. Price/ lease negotiable. Call Maca on 0414 850 365

• Classifieds are on a first come, first served basis. Depending on the number received, your classified may not appear immediately.

• No positions vacant.

• No pictures to be submitted.

• By submitting the Online Capricorn Classifieds Ad Form, you acknowledge that the price of any goods or services shown is inclusive of GST.

Brake, Mechanical Workshop., Port Lincoln SA Well Established for 28 years. 5 Bays. 2x Molnar Hoists. Large pit. Fully equipped large block.

WIWO. Freehold, equipment & stock. Owner needs to retire. Contact 08 86830779 or 0428113242.

Automotive workshop, Tauranga CBD, NZ. WoF AVIC. Spacious. 2 hoists, tyre machine, balancer etc. courtesy car. Reasonable rent, good lease/landlord. Good returns & potential to increase turnover, inquire today $200,000.

Ph: Andrew on 022 6469334 & 07 5788110

Mechanical Workshop, Calliope QLD Empty Workshop with washbay & land for sale. Calliope Qld, leased on a monthly basic to mechanical business now. Buy, move in or keep leased. PH Susan 0491038142 email bellindarabit@gmail.com

Mechanical Workshop, Munruben, QLD Running for 26 years , reluctant sale due to health. Hundreds of customers & trade contacts. Incl. tools, stock & truck ready to go. $18000 ono. Ph: Shane 0407 722 152

Mechanical/Tyre Workshop, Collie WA Est 20yrs, current owner for 7yrs, long lease offered, located in centre of town, fully equipped large workshop & showroom, potential to grow business. Ph (08) 9734 1992 or accounts@collietyre.com.au Automotive Mechanical & Transmission Workshop, Eurobodalla Coast, NSW. Business operating in this location for 25 years.

4 bays, 2 x 2 post hoist, all plant equipment & stock. Busy industrial area, long lease & regular clientele. Email: aquarius2536@hotmail.com Automotive Mechanical Repair Workshop, Huskisson, NSW. Brilliant business opportunity for a qualified automotive mechanic in beautiful coastal town. Well-established client base. WIWO incl. plant, equipment (5 hoists) and stock.

Ph: Warwick on (02) 4441 8449.

Automotive Mechanical & Suspension Business for EOI/SALE, Myaree WA. Est. 1974, huge client base, excellent reputation, 3 units on long lease, 4 hoists incl. wheel aligning hoist, all equipment & stock, office manager & mechanic happy to stay.

Contact: Graeme (08) 9330 3231 or graeme@g-mac.com.au

Mechanical Workshop, Bibra Lake, WA Est.1991. Well equipped, including truck pit & 4 hoists. Loyal customer base & room for expansion. Turn key operation. All stock & workshop equip included. Secure stand alone building. Long lease avail. $240K + GST. Ph:0408 098 800.

Mechanical Workshop, Whetherill Park, NSW Established 20 years with loyal clientele, workshop is fully equipped, owner is retiring, all stock and equipment $36,000 - long lease available. Contact: Ray 0410425477 Automotive Service Workshop, Bega NSW Established 40 years, 23 years in its current fast-growing CBD location. Strong & loyal customer base. Two adjoining leased fully equipped workshops with attached office.

WIWO incl. brake lathe, injector test bench, diagnostic scan tool, wheel aligner, & 2x hoists. $120K. Contact owner on 02 6492 2767.

Mechanical/Tyre Workshop, Collie WA Est 20yrs, current owner for 7yrs, long lease offered, located in centre of town, fully equipped large workshop & showroom, potential to grow business. Ph (08) 9734 1992 or accounts@collietyre.com.au

How to Advertise in the Capricorn Classifieds 1. Send an email to ignition@capricorn.coop with the following details: your Member number, business name, contact details and details of your advert (no more than 30 words).

2. Capricorn must receive your classified advert by the 16th of the month preceding the publication month. If we have not received your classified advert by this date it will be published in the following month depending on the number of adverts received.

3. Check out your advert and fellow Members’ classifieds in the next edition of Ignition.

Email: ignition@capricorn.coop Publisher's General Disclaimer All information, material and content contained in this edition of Ignition is provided or sourced by Capricorn Society Limited (“Capricorn”) for general information only and is not intended to be advice or comment on any particular matter or subject. Before acting on any information you should consider the relevance of it to your own circumstances and, if necessary, take professional advice.

Capricorn makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of any material (including, without limitation, any third party supplier advertisement in respect of which Capricorn merely acts as a conduit) included in this edition of Ignition. To the fullest extent permitted by law Capricorn, its officers, employees, agents and representatives disclaim any and all liability to you or any other person for any loss or damage whatsoever connected with: (i) reliance on material in Ignition; or (ii) inaccuracy, error or omission in material in Ignition.

Capricorn, Stronger With Capricorn, Ignition, Capricorn Travel, Capricorn Mutual and the boomerangs device are trademarks or registered trademarks of Capricorn.

If you have any news or information that you think would be of interest to your fellow members, please send the information to Capricorn via email ignition@capricorn.coop.

Capricorn Society Limited ACN 008 347 313 Postal Address: Locked Bag 3003, West Perth WA 6872 Registered Office Australia: 28 Troode Street, West Perth WA 6005 Phone (08) 6250 9500 General Enquiries 1800 999 233 Members 1800 327 437 Suppliers 1800 005 322

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Spot the Difference

LAST MONTH'S WINNERS

LAST MONTH'S ANSWERS

1st Prize - 4,000 points

Find them all and win!

1st Prize: 4,000 points 2nd Prize: 2,000 points

2nd Prize - 2,000 points

Email your answers to ignition@capricorn.coop before 21 February 2020. Winners will be selected by a lucky hat draw of correct entries. Please ensure you include your Member number and email address when submitting your entry.

WORD Hunter

Find the 16 words hidden in the jumble. They could be horizontal, vertical, diagonal or backwards. See if you can find them all!

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Easier.

Smarter.

Healthier.

8t Av h ail Fe ab br le ua fr ry om 20 21

Woolworths at Work is the new way to get all your groceries and everyday essentials.

Easier. One trusted supplier for all your groceries, and free next day delivery on orders over $99.* Smarter. Your grocery shopping earns 1 x Capricorn Rewards point on every $1 spent.

Healthier. Our specially curated range gives you healthier choices, for a healthier workforce.

Sign up through Capricorn today: capricorn.coop/woolworthsatwork *Only applicable in non-remote areas where delivery is available; and for an 8 hour window.