Motor Trader magazine, August 2016

AUG 2016

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MOTOR TRADES ASSOCIATION OF QUEENSLAND

MEMBERS CLASSIC: BRITISH MOTOR CORPORATION 1966 MGB

The benchmark of industry standards.

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vehicles to supplement stock for sale. ▶ Manage complex customer issues. ▶ Apply safe working practices in an automotive workplace. ▶ Communicate effectively in an automotive workplace. ▶ Establish relations with customers.

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Learn to: ▶ Determine used motor vehicle stock requirements. ▶ Apply sales procedures. ▶ Apply legal requirements relating to product sales.

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Contents Official Publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland

Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/MTAQueensland

HEAD OFFICE Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 P.O. Box 4530, Eight Mile Plains, Qld 4113 Tel: 07 3237 8777 Fax: 07 3844 4488 Toll Free: 1800 177 951 Email: publications@mtaq.com.au Website: www.mtaq.com.au EDITOR Jonathan Nash ART DIRECTOR Marco Ilinic INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS Ted Kowalski Paul Murray POLICY Kellie Dewar, General Manager MTA Queensland ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Barry Browne 03 9807 9154 Email: barry@barrybrownemedia.com.au EDITORIAL Editorial submissions are welcomed but cannot be guaranteed placement.

For more information telephone the Editor 07 3237 8777 SUBSCRIPTION RATES (including GST) Australia: $72.60 annually Overseas: $110 annually

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MOTOR TRADER PUBLISHING POLICY Motor Trader is the official publication of the Motor Trades Association of Queensland.

The role of Motor Trader is to inform members of current issues and legislation affecting the industry. As such it can be regarded as the business magazine for the Queensland motor industry. The role of Motor Trader is not to be in competition with the technical magazines already on the market. It will advise of new vehicles being released and of the latest technology incorporated into them; it will advise of latest technology affecting members in each of the MTA Queensland Divisions; it will keep members abreast of the latest in motor industry training and industrial affairs; and it will keep members informed of the latest technical aids available through MTA Queensland Member Services, which will assist members in staying ahead of the technological revolution presently being encountered within the motor industry.

The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.

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MTA QUEENSLAND ABN: 74 028 933 848

20160401

CORPORATE PARTNERS

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02 From the editor 04 From the desk of the CEO 05 Policy/Viewpoint 08 MTA Q&A

RICHARD POWELL FROM BRISBANE MOTOR BODIES Feature 10 BLACK GOLD: THE BUSINESS OF OIL 16 Members Classic BEST OF BRITISH: BRITISH MOTOR CORPORATION 1966 MGB

30 MEMBERS ESSENTIALS 19 Professional Circle training 27 Member profiles 28 Industrial relations 30 Concept Corner AM-RB 001 33 Industry insight

WHY DOES MY LENDER NEED A BUSINESS PLAN? August 2016 Motor Trader | 1

From the editor

JONATHAN NASH EDITOR

H

SAVE THE DATE

ELLO AND WELCOME to the August 2016 edition of Motor Trader.

As we all know, if there is one thing that we can't live without it is petrol. It's the stuff that powers our planet and is used as a means of quickly moving goods, products and, indeed, ourselves from one place to another. For most of us, that is how we think about it most of the time.

However, oil is used in the production of hundreds of items that we take for granted. Plastic, adhesives, sealants, lubricants, innumerable chemicals, cosmetic products, food additives, pharmaceutical drugs, inks and dyes . . . the list is very long!

The business of oil is, consequently, a very important one and truly massive. Some of the companies involved in the industry are the biggest and most profitable in the world.

In this month's edition we thought

we would take a look at oil - what it is, where it comes from, the companies and the costs. Take a look from page 10.

In our MTA Q&A feature this month we talk to Richard Powell, owner of smash repair business Brisbane Motor Bodies. Richard started his career as a 15-year-old apprentice in New Zealand before establishing Brisbane Motor Bodies in 1985. With his refreshing philosophy that a ‘happy shop is a productive shop’, coupled with the drive to consistently deliver quality service and quality work, Richard recently saw his business mark 30 years of trading - a significant milestone and achievement. You can read more on pages 8 and 9.

In our Member's Classic feature on pages 16 and 17, we catch up with Joanne Macdonald from Gin Gin Diesel to chat about her terrific MGB. A 30th birthday gift from her husband Jason, the little British sports car is in brilliant condition and a real headturner.

In Professional Circle training news this month, we have some great stories of achievement.

The MTA Institute's online Learning Management System (LMS) was launched earlier this year after months of development and, in July, welcomed its first graduates from the online Motor Vehicle Salesperson and Motor Vehicle Dealer courses.

The feedback from those who have completed the courses has been very positive and the LMS will be expanded

THE ANNUAL PRESIDENT’S BALL IS THE HIGHLIGHT ON THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY’S SOCIAL CALENDAR. THIS PRESTIGIOUS BLACK-TIE event will be marketed to all MTA Queensland members, clients and stakeholders and is expected to sell out.

The evening will feature dinner, entertainment and dancing and will include an awards ceremony recognising the best and brightest trainees and apprentices at the MTA Institute.

Date: Saturday 19th November 2016 Time: 6:30pm - 11pm Venue: Hilton Brisbane

2 | Motor Trader August 2016

over coming months to allow even more courses to be completed by students in their own time and at their own pace.

In other training news, one lucky MTA Institute apprentice scored the weekend of a lifetime at the recent Townsville 400 V8 Supercars event.

Jonathan Huckett, an 18-year-old, first-year light vehicle mechanical apprentice with Burdekin Motors in Ayr, spent all three days of the event with the Vortex Racing team, working side-by-side with Craig Lowndes’ elite pit crew.

It was, said Jonathan, a dream come true and he has now set his mind on a career in motorsport.

"When I finish my apprenticeship in four years’ time, working in a crew at motorsports events, well, that would be the perfect job for me," he said.

As always, we will endeavour to bring you news and insight into the industry, information on the latest training opportunities, and highlight members’ interests. If you have a story worth telling, want to appear in Member Profiles, or have a classic car, bike or truck you would like to see featured, then please contact me.

Cheers, Jonathan Nash jonathann@mtaq.com.au

As a special business offer for MTA Queensland members, you can have access to a payment terminal that can do more than take payments.

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$

The Commonwealth Bank has developed a new EFTPOS tablet called Albert that accepts card payments and also runs apps. To help keep your business moving, Commonwealth Bank has a special offer for MTA Queensland members.

Just open a new Commonwealth Bank Business Transaction Account by 31/12/2016 and link it to your existing or new Commonwealth Bank merchant facility.

terminal rental for 3 months*

$

monthly account fee on a Business Transaction Account – $10 monthly account fee waiver#

To take advantage of this offer, just contact MTA Queensland on 07 3237 8777.

Important Information: Offer available to referrals made via MTA Queensland between 01/01/2016 and 31/12/2016. *This offer is applicable to existing and eligible new merchant facilities.

To maintain the fee waiver, you must retain the required products contained in the offer (including settling your merchant facility to your linked Commonwealth Bank business transaction account). Otherwise the offer may be withdrawn. #To maintain the fee waiver, you must retain the required products, otherwise the offer may be withdrawn. Offer includes the monthly account maintenance fee of currently $10 on the Business Transaction Account linked to the merchant facility. Please refer to terms and conditions. This offer may be extended beyond the specified end date at the discretion of the Commonwealth Bank. Interest rates and fees are subject to change. Full conditions of use will be included in our Letter of Offer.

Applications for finance subject to the Bank’s normal leading criteria. MTA Queensland may receive a fee from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia for each successful referral. Referral Fees are not payable on referrals from existing relationship managed Commonwealth Bank customers. This has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, so you should consider its appropriateness to your circumstances before you act on it. Terms and conditions are available from commbank.com.au. Some of the apps shown require individual development. Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124. Australian credit licence 234945.

From the desk of the CEO

D

BRETT DALE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER MTA QUEENSLAND

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URING THE LONG federal election, I kept my eye on the ebb and flow of policy announcements important to the automotive value chain - particularly business and training. Now that the election is over and policy direction settled, I have focused attention on training. For that purpose, I initiated meetings with the vocational educational and training sectors to focus on accessibility, equity and inclusiveness for private providers such as MTA Institute.

At the national level, partly due to the VET FEE HELP scheme, significant structural and policy changes are afoot for the private industry training sector.

As indicated in July’s From the desk of the CEO, I’ve engaged in discussions for a new industry skills council.

Subsequently, on behalf of the MTA Queensland, I signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) as a member entity with the proposed new industry skills council.

In addition, I participated on July 14 in the first national meeting.

I intend to ensure that Queensland’s automotive industry has a strong voice on the council, particularly as the MTA Institute delivers high quality training programs that are valued by both students and employers.

To increase the Association’s training profile and programs, I met with officers in the new independent statutory authority Jobs Queensland.

Its role is to provide strategic industry advice to government on skills demand and future workforce planning. I discussed with the officers the future workforce needs, and existing and new policy frameworks for government investment in skills and the workforce.

At present, the Queensland Government’s vocational training strong focus is on the public sector with private providers, disappointingly, receiving little recognition. In the discussions with Jobs Queensland officers I stressed the need for industry engagement, the need for collaboration to ensure future investment considers the automotive industry, and choice for

students. Hot off the press is data from the Australian Council for Private Education and Training which indicates that nationally, private providers now account for more than three times as many student enrolments as TAFE. In July’s From the desk of the CEO, I mentioned the MoU with South Korea’s Jeollanamdo region’s Office of Education to develop a working relationship to provide students with training and other opportunities.

I have now signed, on behalf of the Association, another MoU with South Korea’s Daejeon Region to support ongoing study tours.

INDUSTRY An important component in our structure is our corporate partners who add beneficial value to the Association and to members. Over the past few weeks, there have been meetings with corporate partners and supporters to review or consider new benefits for members. To date, we’ve met with Guard Insurance, Capricorn, OurAuto and supporter, Bennett and Philp lawyers. From these meetings, numerous opportunities have been identified that have the potential to advantage our membership. When the discussions are finalised, there will be consultation with members to ensure that needs are met and there is knowledge of the benefits that may be accessed.

As General Manager Kellie Dewar indicates in her Viewpoint, some of our corporate partners will accompany us on the regional visits to Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast in October, and to Bundaberg and Hervey Bay in November. Kellie advises that recent visits to regional members with the corporate partners provided for interactions that were of benefit to all participants at the various meetings.

Meetings and discussions have continued with interstate motor trades associations. The purpose of these is to consider ongoing joint opportunities and currently these are being evaluated. I will keep you updated on any joint opportunities in later

editions of From the desk of the CEO. I was impressed with two unexpected and comprehensive responses received to submissions.

The first was from the State Treasurer the Hon Curtis Pitt in reply to our priorities for the State Budget.

The second was from the Australian Labor Party Campaign Headquarters Information Services Team in response to our letter detailing key policies for the motor trades for consideration in the context of the federal election.

The Deputy Chair of the Service Station and Convenience Store Association Michael Carr raised a serious concern with me on behalf of divisional Members. This referred to the publicised retail business models that incorporate underpayment of staff at fuel retail and associated convenience store outlets. This practice, anecdotally, may have the consequence of reduced bowser fuel prices. The intention is to progress meetings on this matter as it incorporates breaches of the Fair Work Act. The Commissioner of Taxation has advised that the rate for work-related motor vehicle expense deductions for the income year commencing July 1, 2016, is 66 cents per kilometre.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission released its Small Business in Focus report. In a nutshell, enquiries and complaints to it continue to grow, ‘topping more than 7,600 in the first half of 2016.’ Many

of these are from the small business sector and are particularly concerned about misleading conduct by other firms and consumer guarantees.

The Queensland Government has opened an Office of Small Business which will deliver its business services online through Business Queensland (http://www.business.qld.gov.au/) that hosts 1382 services – such as podcasts, e-learning tools and webinars.

Additionally, it will provide assistance to access the new three-year $6 million Small Business Digital Grants program. The Government is in the process of recruiting a Small Business Champion to ensure small businesses are represented and connected to the national agenda.

ECONOMY The major economic issue as I write this From the desk of the CEO is the low rise in the consumer price index (CPI) of 1.0 per cent through to the June quarter, 2016. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, this is the weakest annual rise since the June quarter, 1999. A key element in the final CPI outcome in the June quarter was the automotive value chain with a significant price rise in automotive fuel (+5.9 per cent). Price falls included motor vehicles (–1.3 per cent).

Economists are divided on whether or not the Reserve Bank Board will cut the cash rate at its August 2 meeting in response to the weak inflation.

NEW MOTOR VEHICLE SALES The national new motor vehicle market for June was characterised by end of the financial year competition, low interest, federal budget incentives and the double dissolution federal election.

The result was record industry sales. The respected VFacts data indicated buoyant national sales of 128,569 for the month, an increase of 2.2 per cent over 2015.

The national half-yearly total of 598,140 was 3.4 per cent above the same period last year setting the foundation for another industry record year. New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria contributed to the strong market.

Here in Queensland the new motor vehicle market was remarkably steady, recording 27,270 sales for both June 2016 and 2015.

Similarly, on a year-to-date basis, there was a total of 121,962 new motor vehicles sold - an increase of 0.6 per cent.

AND THE LAST THING At the top of my schedule for the coming month is continuation of the Membership growth strategy.

Until September, as Henry Ford, the industrialist and the founder of the Ford motor company said ‘execute ideas with enthusiasm . . . as it is the bottom of all progress.’

Policy/Viewpoint

I KELLIE DEWAR GENERAL MANAGER MTA QUEENSLAND

WANT TO SHARE with you two advocacy stories, both of which emphasise the importance of being able to influence policy through sound stakeholder relationships with the public.

The first relates to our improved engagement with the Department of Transport and Main Roads. In recent Viewpoints, I have referred to positive meetings that the Chair of the Motorcycle Industry Division, Paul Peterson, and I have had with TMR officers on brake testing. This centred on the requirement to test and capture

the 'Peak Deceleration' and either the 'Average Deceleration' or ' Total Stopping Distance' as part of the Safety Certificate.

TMR advised that the motorcycle industry in general did not have the adequate equipment to perform the tests and there was confusion about the historical requirement.

We viewed this as a serious issue that had to be addressed on behalf of our motorcycle members.

Discussions with the TMR focused on the testing equipment on the market, their application August 2016 Motor Trader | 5

Policy/Viewpoint for motorcycles and the cost factors.

As a secondary issue, we were concerned that the testing devices appeared to be either expensive and unsuitable or not practical for the motorcycle industry. Following consultations with TMR, and much research and extensive testing of the brake testing devices, the MTA Queensland was of the view that the VBOX sport was a cost-effective solution suitable for motorcycles to record the data required to achieve compliance.

We now are in the position for the Association to recommend members the VBox device. The company has worked to provide Industry with additional support by developing a specific set of notes for this particular application to make it as easy for the end-user. The Association acknowledges the co-operation of the TMR Officers and VBox Australia for their professionalism and cooperation in securing this sound outcome for both the Motorcycle Division’s membership and the motorcycle industry.

Paul has advised that he has other motorcycle advocacy issues on his agenda to pursue. I’ll advise these in future Viewpoints.

The second advocacy story refers to engagement with the Department of Energy and Water Supply (DEW).

MTAQ CEO Dr Brett Dale, Chair of the Service Station and Convenience Store Association (SS&CSA) Tim Kane and I and other stakeholders met with DEW officers to discuss and have input into key policy issues.

These related to the threshold for mandate liability, sustainability criteria for Queensland’s Biofuels mandate and the Biofuels exemption guideline.

This was a new experience, as our previous contributions to the biofuel mandate policy was through written responses to a discussion paper, the legislation and evidence before the associated Parliamentary Comittee.

Having this sound understanding of various aspects of the biofuel mandate policy we were able to comment on specific proposed policy issues and its consequences from the 6 | Motor Trader August 2016

“THE BIOFUELS

MANDATE IS COMPRISED OF TWO MANDATES INCLUDING AN INITIAL THREE PERCENT MANDATE FOR BIOBASED PETROL, WHICH WILL RISE TO FOUR PERCENT WITHIN 18 MONTHS OF COMMENCING; AND A 0.5 PERCENT MANDATE FOR BIOBASED DIESEL.” perspective of the MTA Queensland and the SS&CSA membership.

The biofuels mandate is comprised of two mandates including an initial three per cent mandate for biobased petrol, which will rise to four per cent within 18 months of commencing; and a 0.5 per cent mandate for biobased diesel. Both mandates are scheduled to commence on January 1, 2017. For fuel retailers it is clear there will be another regulatory layer with which they will need to comply.

We appreciated being invited to have input into policy at this level.

There is bipartisan support in the Queensland Parliaments for a biofuels mandate. CEO Dr Brett Dale and I met the Shadow Minister for Energy, Biofuels and Water Supply Michael Hart to discuss the biofuels industry and the biofuels mandate.

We raised the retail fuel industry concerns about the biofuels mandate and its financial impact on the sector, consumer choice, and emerging technology that is lessening demand for fuel.

WRITTEN SUBMISSIONS An important submission was our response to the discussion paper on Regulatory options for automated vehicles. We advocated that any automated vehicle policy framework should comprise three broad tranches of regulations - Commonwealth, States and Territories, and the community - and these should be

harmonised across all jurisdictions.

It is on the website for you to further peruse.

With the help of SS&CSA Chair Tim Kane, I responded to the Biofuel Mandate retail threshold from the perspective of the SS&CSA membership. It is on the website for you to read.

SURVEY This month, I have another gem from the Survey and it’s my favourite.

It refers to reasons for being a member of the MTA Queensland.

Almost 77 per cent indicated ‘it was the value of the MTA Queensland services in support of (their) businesses.’ Second at 56 per cent was ‘being part of the auto business, it is important to support the industry association’. Third at 34 per cent was ‘being a member of MTAQ helps present a more professional image’. Fourth at 15 per cent was ‘customers look for the MTAQ logo, which they trust’.

MEETINGS AND VISITS Divisional Annual General Meetings (AGMs) are scheduled for August. Notices to all Divisions have been distributed and I urge members to participate. If you can’t attend in person, participation can be via teleconference or skype. I look forward to members outside the south-east dialling in and being part of the process.

Visits will recommence in October. The first will be in October to Toowoomba and the Sunshine Coast and the second in November to Bundaberg and Hervey Bay. Visits will, hopefully, recommence in February 2017. Joining Dr Brett Dale and me will be our corporate partners.

FINALLY Don’t leave it too late to get your tickets or start limbering up for the President’s Ball on Saturday, November 19, at the Brisbane Hilton!

As always, take care and stay safe.

MTAQ is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Innovation Award and the Community Award - to be presented at this year’s President’s Ball on November 19.

These awards have been created to recognise the business creativity of MTAQ members and their involvement within the communities they serve.

From business methods that benefit the environment or improve productivity, to relationships with local communities through charitable works, the award judges - including MTA Queensland Chairman David Fraser and the Executive team - want to look at any and all initiatives.

Representatives of the winning businesses are

required to attend the event and will, if needed, be flown to Brisbane and provided accommodation at the Hilton Brisbane. But staying at the Hilton is not the only reward. Recipients will also receive a trophy, a $1500 travel voucher and exposure through MTAQ’s website, social media presence and Motor Trader magazine. So get involved and nominate either your own business or the business of another member who you think has excelled in either of these areas.

Let us know, via email and in 500 words or less, which business has been nominated, why they have been nominated and include either photographic or documentary evidence to support the nomination, and away we go!

INNOVATION AWARD We often think of innovation in terms of technology, but innovation comes in many forms. From engaging employees with unique incentive programs to methodologies that streamline workflows and increase production; from waste management to quality control; from new product lines to changes to old ones; from customer service programs to unique building, planning and environmental projects.

‘Innovation’ can cover any improvement or adjustment to your business.

COMMUNITY AWARD MTA Queensland knows many members are involved with their community beyond the boundary of their business - be it via charitable works, fundraising, volunteering or direct work in the community.

The Community Award recognises a member business which has identified how important their role can be within the community they serve and which has responded with projects, programs and initiatives reflecting that importance.

The nomination process is open now and closes at Noon on Monday, October 31

The winners will be notified by Friday, November 4

Email your nomination to info@mtaq.com.au

WINNERS RECEIVE Return flights to Brisbane A night at the Hilton Brisbane Free entry to The President’s Ball $1,500 travel voucher

2015 WINNER

Steve Hayes accepted the award on behalf of Chip Tyre

Awarded to Chip Tyre. The company is involved in the recycling of end-of-life tyres, breaking down the tyres to create rubber crumb that can be used in a wide range of applications, from tile adhesive glue to children’s playground matting. Using equipment that is capable of shredding 25 tonnes of tyres per hour, Chip Tyre is the only producer of rubber crumb in Queensland, processing in excess of 2000 tonnes per month.

2015 WINNER

Bruce Keown accepted the award on behalf of the Bruce Lynton Automotive Group

Presented to the Bruce Lynton Automotive Group, recognising the generous and ongoing support from the Group to a wide range of charities and community initiatives. Included amongst the charities the Group supports are 4 ASD Kids (a charity founded by Chloe and Mat Rogers, which focuses on caring for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)), Guide Dogs Queensland and Cancer Council Queensland.

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IT’S TIME TO NOMINATE FOR THE MTAQ AWARDS

MTA

QA &

What products and service does Brisbane Motor Bodies provide?

RP: We predominantly do smash repairs.

We specialise in the paint and panel work but much of the other work we can get done on-site too. For instance, we have an excellent auto-electrician who works with us when we need him, and we also have a mechanic who comes out to work with us too. We work with really great contractors. So, we mostly do smash repairs but can organise for the completion of anything that needs doing to the vehicle.

Who are your customers?

RP: We do a lot of fleet work. I’ve been working with a major fleet and others for 20 years and fleet work probably counts for about 60 per cent of what we do. We do a lot of private jobs too and do get work from most of the insurance companies. It’s a bit of a mix.

We’ve been around a while and some customers do specifically ask for us. Over the years we have had customers who we’ve helped and whose kids now use our services.

You recently celebrated 30 years in business. That is quite a milestone.

What is your background in the industry and how was Brisbane Motor Bodies established?

Richard Powell, owner of Brisbane Motor Bodies, with Kristen, his daughter and office manager.

RP: I did my apprenticeship in New Zealand and have been in the industry for 45 years now. I came to Australia in 1978 and worked at Ron Kenyon’s panel shop in Coorparoo in Brisbane. I was a contractor there and ended up working between four different panel shops in Coorparoo and West End. By then, I had started

Richard Powell has spent a lifetime in the smash repair business. The owner of Brisbane Motor Bodies started his career as a 15-year-old apprentice in New Zealand before establishing his business in Brisbane in 1985, and his refreshing philosophy that a ‘happy shop is a productive shop’, coupled with the drive to consistently deliver quality service and quality work, has seen his business recently reach the major milestone of 30 years of trading. to get my own customers and while I was contracting at West End I had my own phone line and the owner let me run my own business within his shop.

Then, on December 2, 1985, I opened my own business in the building next door to this one. I opened up on my own and in those first three weeks I did 21 jobs. At the beginning of the next year, I brought in a panel beater, then a painter, and it went from there.

Why start up on your own?

RP: I always wanted to. My dad had always worked for himself and I had always intended to do the same.

I opened Brisbane Motor Bodies when I was 29 and never looked back.

We’ve always been located on Burke Street and, over the years, I have had three landlords in the street.

The building next door to us now was our first location. Then, in the mid90s, we got pretty busy and I rented another shop across the street which became my panel shop and office.

We were there for two years and we expanded to 11 staff but things started to get a little unwieldy. There was a fellow called John Lyons who had a big panel shop in town and I remember he told me ‘Don’t get too big because you don’t make that much more money.

Stay at a size that is comfortable.’

So I had 11 staff, then went down to seven staff and moved back into the one shop. I actually made more money that year with seven staff and increased my turnover significantly.

We did get busy enough again at one point that I rented another shop down the road before, eventually, the building we are in now became available. So now we have the paint

shop next door and the panel shop in here and we have been like that for about nine years.

How many staff do you have?

RP: I have five on the floor – two panel beaters, two painters and another guy who moves between both and works where he is needed. I also have two office staff.

Have you seen a lot of changes in the industry during your 30 years running Brisbane Motor Bodies?

hands. My wife also helps out by picking up and delivering cars to customers.

My manager Chris is like the son I never had - we drive each other mad at times but I couldn't do it without him!

As for me, it’s hard for me to get into the shop. I usually start something and the boys have to finish it for me!

I never hear the end of it when that happens! Much of my time is involved in running the business and, because we do fleet work, I spend a lot of time going all over Brisbane doing quotes and pick-ups and so on.

RP: There have been many changes.

When I started my apprenticeship in 1971 we used to use lead on everything.

Anything we couldn’t file finish we’d use lead. If we wanted to use plastic filler, we had to ask the boss and he’d usually say no!

Another change is in working with insurance companies. These days you get report cards from them and you can get reprimanded if you don’t tick all the boxes. The last time I did a report card was when I was at school and I don’t want to do it again! That’s one reason we don’t do a lot of work with insurance companies. It has always been my thing that we do the job right. When I hand the keys back to the customer I know in my heart we have done right by the customer.

To what can you attribute your success?

The business is family-owned and run.

Who else from the family is involved in the business?

RP: I have dabbled in classic American cars, which I really like, but at the moment I have a Harley and I like to go for a ride when I can. I used to enjoy shooting and taking part in ‘western action’ competitions in which you use single-action revolvers, lever-action carbines and so on. However, I haven’t done that for a while. It’s a lot of fun though!

RP: My daughter Kristen works for me and runs the office, and my mum comes in every Friday morning, as she has for 25 years, and cleans the office, cleans out the fridge and polishes the taps out the back where the guys wash their

RP: We have always delivered quality work and quality service. We’re a friendly shop – my philosophy is ‘Happy shop, productive shop’ – and always try to do the best we can for the customer. And we do get excellent feedback from our customers.

What does the future hold for Brisbane Motor Bodies?

RP: We will keep moving along as we have been. What we are doing is working and working well. To continue to deliver great service and great quality, that is the key.

What do you do with your spare time, if you have any?

August 2016 Motor Trader | 9

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M

ONEY MAKES THE world go round. So goes the saying. And, in a manner of speaking, that is true.

After all, the earning and spending of money powers our economy and keeps the lifeblood of capital flowing through the veins of our financial system.

However, there is something else that is equally important to our way of life - a substance that has immeasurably advanced our society's development and is so valuable that wars have been fought by those looking to control its production.

That substance is oil . . . a tiny word for a resource that plays such a giganticly important role in our lives.

Without oil, literally hundreds of everyday items we take for granted would not exist. Plastic, adhesives, sealants, lubricants, innumerable chemicals, cosmetic products, food additives, pharmaceutical drugs, inks and dyes, paint, detergents . . . the list of things made using oil seems endless.

Of course, for most of us, we think about oil mostly in terms of its ability to fuel our vehicles and move us from one place to another. And even then, we probably don't think about it that often – at least not until the price of fuel at the bowser hits $1.40 and more.

In fact, apart from knowing that it is pumped from the ground, is the main component of the occasional environmental disaster and, from time to time, causes conflict involving countries in the Middle East, we probably don’t know too much about it.

So here is some background on oil – the stuff that really makes the world go round.

WHAT IS IT? Oil is a fossil fuel – a yellow-to-black liquid created over millions of years after once-living organisms became buried beneath the earth and were subjected to immense heat and pressure.

It is composed of hydrocarbons – an organic compound made up of hydrogen and carbon – and the type of hydrocarbons in its make-up, along with the amount of sulphur it contains, determines what type of oil it is.

For example, a certain mix of hydrocarbons, together with a low level of sulphur is called ‘light sweet’ crude.

This oil is easier to refine into the useful substances we can use - such as the petrol in our cars. Oil with a greater sulphur content is known as ‘heavy sour’ crude which is more expensive to refine.

The refining process itself is relatively simple. The oil is heated and distilled to allow the different hydrocarbon molecules to separate from each other and be collected.

In this way, light materials, such as propane and butane are separated from medium weight materials such as petrol and diesel and heavy materials such as asphalt.

BIG BUSINESS Although oil has been known about and used for centuries, it is only over the past 160 years that it has become this incredibly important resource.

It was in 1859, at the rather appropriately named Oil

Creek in the US state of Pennsylvania, that the first oil well was drilled. Back then, the invention of the automobile was still a few decades away but it was realised that oil could be used for heating, lighting and as a lubricant for new and complex industrial machinery. Once the car came along in the 1880s, and with the development of petrol as the means of powering the new-fangled contraption, then the fate of oil as the most valuable commodity on the planet was sealed.

Today, the work of drilling for, refining, and transporting oil is done on a gargantuan scale and the numbers that swirl around the business are quite staggering.

Thousands of wells feed hundreds of refineries across the world that work endlessly to refine the millions of barrels of oil (a barrel is, by the way, about 160 litres) they receive every day. And the companies that do this work are some of the world’s biggest enterprises.

For example, ExxonMobil, by some accounts the largest of the publicly-owned oil companies, has a market capitalisation (value) of nearly US$350 billion, employs more than 75,000 people and, in 2015, reported earnings of US$16 billion. That’s a huge sum, although nowhere near its record year of 2008 when it earned a quite astounding US$45 billion – the largest sum ever reported by a company at the time, and still a record for the sector.

However, though ExxonMobil is huge and is part of the group of companies - including BP, Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron and Total - that is collectively known as ‘Big Oil’ or ‘Supermajors’, it is the companies owned or controlled by national governments that are the truly big players.

While ExxonMobil pumps out 4.7 million barrels of oil per day, Gazprom (controlled by the Russian government) can produce more than 8 million per day while the world’s biggest producer, Saudi Aramco, siphons 12 million barrels per day from beneath the sands of the Middle East.

It is just as well that so much oil is being produced, because the world has an unquenchable thirst for the stuff.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), oil companies were collectively producing 96.49 million barrels per day in the first quarter of 2016, just about on a par with global demand which reached 95.17 million barrels per day for the same period. Most of that demand comes from the oil-thirsty countries of the US (20 million barrels per day) and China (10 million barrels per day). For the record, Australia consumes about 1 million barrels of oil per day.

And the industry is likely to continue to grow. According to forecasts from the IEA, global demand for oil is expected to reach nearly 105 million barrels per day by 2040.

WHAT IS THE COST OF OIL? That’s a loaded question.

There is, of course, a cost in terms of environmental health.

Burning fossil fuels is not great for the environment, and when accidents involving oil do happen the results can be catastrophic - the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster in the Gulf of Mexico not only killed 11 rig workers but also led to nearly 5 million barrels of oil being spilled into the ocean.

In financial terms, the cost of oil is obvious to us every time we go to a service station.

August 2016 Motor Trader | 11

Singapore is the major Asia-Pacific hub for refining crude oil

Australia imports about a quarter of its petrol needs, much of it from Singapore - one of the world's largest refining hubs - and the price of petrol at the servo is most closely linked to Singapore benchmark prices for refined fuel known as Singapore MOPS95 (unleaded) and Singapore Gasoil (diesel). The fact that Australian prices are linked to this refined fuel benchmark, rather than crude oil prices, means factors such as refinery shutdowns can come into play and affect the price at the bowser.

However, the price of crude is still crucial, of course, and different types of oil have different values. For example, the price of major classifications such as Brent crude (North Sea oil), Tapis ( from South China Sea oilfields near Malaysia) and West Texas Intermediate (mainly US oilfields) vary, with Tapis, a sweet light crude, considered particularly high quality and commanding a premium price.

Whatever the source and classification, the price of crude can be very volatile. In 2008, when the cost of fuel at some service stations was nudging $1.60 a litre, the price for Brent crude was at a record high of US$147 per barrel. Fast forward to January of this year and Brent was selling at $28 a barrel, helping the bowser price to fall below $1 per litre.

The fall of the price of crude oil in January was due in large part to over-production and nations carrying large stocks. A change in strategy from OPEC also came into play.

OPEC - the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries - consists of 14 major oil producing nations, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Venezuela and, as a group, have

KING OF CRUDE: JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER

used their oil production strength to stabilise crude prices by increasing or decreasing production. This time around, OPEC refused to restrict production to prop up the price.

Whatever the reasons for the price volatility, the cost of petrol at the service station always comes under close scrutiny. The fall in the price of oil was fairly dramatic over the back end of 2015 into 2016 and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) decided to investigate why that fall was not, in its opinion, passed on at the bowser.

The ACCC released its quarterly report suggesting the retail price – an average of 124.4 cent per litre - in the nation’s five largest cities was too high and pointed to the Gross Indicative Retail Differences (GIRD) which are indicative of the margins achieved by retailers on the sale of fuel, and may reflect overall retail profits. The ACCC said that the quarterly average petrol GIRDs in those five cities was 12.4 cents per litre – the highest level since they had begun monitoring in 2002.

“The ACCC believes that retail prices have been unreasonably high in the second half of 2015 and in early February 2016 wrote to the major petrol retailers seeking an explanation for the high retail margins. I expect to receive their responses shortly,” said Rod Sims, ACCC Chairman.

However, does 12.4 cents per litre seem an unreasonable margin? An ACCC breakdown of just what expenses are involved in supplying a litre of petrol at 124.4 cents makes for interesting reading. The largest component of the price is the refined fuel itself at 51.9 cents. Add on the

Through aggressive business tactics, Rockefeller worked Standard Oil into a commanding JOHN DAVISON ROCKEFELLER position in the industry and by was one of the most influential 1904, the company was in control and richest men to have of more than 90 per cent of oil ever lived. At the time of his production in the US. death, aged 97, in 1937, his Within ten years, such was wealth was estimated to be the demand for oil and Standard’s somewhere north of US$300 perceived monopoly, that the billion (in today's dollars).

John D. Rockefeller company was ordered to be His was a life of dismantled by the US Supreme quite astonishing wealth Court as it was in violation of the Sherman Antitrust accumulation, and it was all thanks to oil.

Act. Standard Oil was subsequently broken up into Rockefeller began his careers as a bookkeeper smaller companies, but such was the size of the in a shipping company but became interested in oil company that many of these subsequent ‘baby in the 1850s. By 1863, Rockefeller and his business partner had invested in a Cleveland oil refinery and, Standards’ went on to become major players in the industry. They include: two years later, formed, together with others, the Standard Oil Company.

• Standard Oil of New Jersey – renamed Esso,

12 | Motor Trader August 2016

now part of ExxonMobil.

• Standard Oil of New York – renamed Mobil, now part of ExxonMobil • Standard Oil of California – renamed Chevron • Standard Oil of Indiana – renamed Amoco and now part of ConocoPhillips.

The break up of Standard Oil didn’t affect Rockefeller in the slightest. He was still a major shareholder in all the smaller companies and, in 1916, he became the first US dollar billionaire.

The Rockefeller name has been influential over the years. Powerful politicians, including Nelson Rockefeller, US Vice-President in the 1970s, have come from the family, as have powerful bankers and philanthropists.

Though the family has lost its place amongst the world's mega-rich to the titans of new technologies, the name Rockefeller is still synonymous with power and wealth.

LEVIATHANS OF THE SEA TRANSPORTING OIL AROUND the globe involves the use of the largest machines ever created by humanity – the oil tanker.

Truly gigantic, the largest of the Ultra Large Crude Carriers was the Seawise Giant. Built in 1979, Seawise Giant weighed in at 82,000 tons unladen but could carry an astonishing 560,000 tons of crude – more than 4 million barrels of oil. That’s

enough to keep Australia going for nearly four days.

At nearly 650,000 tons when full, Seawise Giant was more than six times heavier than the nuclearpowered aircraft carriers of the US Navy and, at 458 metres, if she were stood on end she would have been taller than the Empire State Building. She had 31,500 square metres of deck space - the equivalent to nearly five full-size soccer pitches.

In fact, so massive was Seawise Giant it took

government fuel excise and wholesale GST at 49.4 cents, the wholesale margin at 10.7 cents and that leaves 12.4 cents for the retailer. When you consider the costs of transportation, marketing, administration, utilities and wages etc, there is little wonder that service station owners invest in a retail store or similar facility on-site to help make a living.

Perhaps it's a little bit harsh to suggest retailers cut their margin when the government is taking such a big chunk.

While some of us might think we pay a lot for petrol, compared to some advanced nations, a price of 124.4 cents per litre doesn’t look so bad. In the UK, consumers are paying 112p per litre (AUD$1.97), in France it’s €1.28 (AUD$1.88) while in the Netherlands it’s €1.56 ($2.29).

Interestingly, there are some further changes coming to the Queensland bowser following the passing of the Liquid Fuel Supply (Ethanol and Other Biofuels Mandate) Amendment Act 2015 – an Act that requires 3 per cent of the total volume of regular unleaded petrol sales and r .* au . ou r a ER r y er fo FF om e t sh c O . s i r S g e a Re rtW ONU ash ay! a d B Sm nty artwm to a m lai r r s c a W crc to

it vis

9km for the ship to come to a complete stop from her top speed of 16 knots and she had a turning circle of 3km.

In 1988, during the Iran-Iraq war, the ship was damaged and sunk by the Iraqi Air Force in the Persian Gulf. She was subsequently repaired and passed through the hands of several owners before seeing out her years as a moored storage tanker.

She was sold off and scrapped in 2010.

ethanol blended fuel sales be bio-based (ethanol) and which the Minister for Energy and Water Supply Mark Bailey said would help Queensland transition to a clean energy economy, grow the biofuels and bio-manufacturing sectors and boost jobs across that industry, especially in regional Queensland.

The Act's requirements could demand a fairly hefty infrastructure investment on the part of service station owners and the government is working with stakeholders to find the appropriate solution.

While the Queensland petrol retailers may have a tough time of it in the coming months, it is unlikely that biofuels, or any other type of fuel will replace oil any time soon. Though automotive technologies such as hybrid and all-electric continue to develop, the numbers aren’t there yet to make a dent in petrol as the car driver’s fuel of choice (of the 70 million cars sold in 2015, just 500,000 were hybrid or all-electric).

For now, it will be oil that will continue to power our cars, fuel our economy and make the world go round.

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SOUTH KOREAN STUDENTS ON TRACK FOR MTAI TRAINING

The South Korean delegation met with MTAQ CEO Dr Brett Dale (third from left), and Business Development Manager Anthony Bonaccorso (far left)

M

TA QUEENSLAND’S PARTNERSHIP with the Daejeon region of South Korea continues to grow with another group of students due to arrive in September to commence training with the MTA Institute (MTAI) to achieve a Certificate I in Automotive Vocational Preparation in Light Vehicle Automotive.

The five young students will be the third group from the region to travel to Queensland to take part in the specially-designed course developed by MTAI. The Certificate I course consists of a four-week intensive English language training program, followed by four weeks of training at MTAI's state-of-the-art workshop facility.

That training includes units on environmental, health and The world’s largest multi-manufacturer accident repair safety, and the database is now available in Australia and New Zealand. use of tools, cooling systems, New local content suspension and An extensive research program developing escribe for the brakes. Following local markets is now well underway. the successful With $3.5M being invested, completion of that new vehicles are added part of the course, every month, significantly increasing market the students coverage. will go on to Extra information work experience In addition to repair methods, escribe supplies times and technical data, offering operational efficiencies and competitive training with advantage.

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14 | Motor Trader August 2016

John McCreesh from Keema Hyundai with Dr DongHo Sul

Australia (SETA), a leading education and training consultancy based in Brisbane, which assists international students planning to study in Australia.

In July, delegates from Daejeon visited MTAQ to meet with CEO Dr Brett Dale and Business Development Manager Anthony Bonaccorso before going on to visit Keema Hyundai where the delegation, led by Dr DongHo Sul, the Superintendent of the Daejeon Metropolitan Office of Education, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with regard to the ongoing work experience aspect of the student program.

Although focusing on technical training, the course is also designed to expose the students to a little of the Australian way of life.

“During the program we will take them out on excursions so they can engage with the industry on a social level and also show them some Australian heritage and culture along the way,” said Mr Bonaccorso. “These elements are an important part of the program too.

“We have run this program for two years and this new group of students will be our third intake from South Korea. The course has proven to be very successful and the feedback from the students, the trainers – everyone involved in the program - has been been very positive. The relationship we have with the Daejeon region, and indeed other regions of South Korea, is exciting and one that we intend to continue to develop.”

2017 Retail Motor Trade Diary THIS QUALITY DIARY FEATURES: ✷ Professional design complete with gold corners and stitched spine backing ✷ Important telephone numbers and contact details ✷ 30 minute per day time slots ✷ Day by day planning

Member’s price $22 (GST inclusive) plus postage and handling.

Non Member’s price $25 (GST inclusive) plus postage and handling.

ORDER NOW TO SECURE YOUR COPY and avoid disappointment.

(Due for delivery mid-November) Just fax this completed form back to MTA-Q on (07) 3844 4488, OR email stationery@mtaq.com.au Please supply: ____ copies of the 2017 Motor Trade’s Diary at TOTAL $

(Plus postage and handling)

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MTA-Q Member: Membership number/Account number: Capricorn Account number: Please bill to my account OR see payment details below Method of Payment: Cheque (Payable to MTAQ) / MasterCard / Visa Card Number: __ __ __ __/ __ __ __ __/ __ __ __ __/ __ __ __ __/

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MAKE: BRITISH MOTOR CORPORATION MODEL: 1966 MGB ENGINE: 1.8-LITRE, 4-CYLINDER OWNER: JOANNE MACDONALD OWNED SINCE: 2009

B E S T

O F

Joanne Macdonald with her MGB

B

ACK IN THE swingin’ sixties, Britain was the place to be. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and The Who were ruling the airwaves; the fashion world seemed to revolve around Carnaby Street and the King’s Road in London and made stars of Twiggy, Jean Shrimpton and Mary Quandt; England did something surprising in the sporting world and won the 1966 soccer World Cup while, on TV, the suave John Steed and the stunning Emma Peel were sorting out global problems in The Avengers.

On the road, Britain was producing some pretty remarkable cars too. The Mini, the E-type Jag, the Lotus Elan, the Austin-Healey 3000, the Triumph Spitfire and TR4A and the Morgan Plus 8 all made a splash during the sixties and are now regarded as classics of their time.

What stands out about all these cars, apart from the Mini that is, is that they are all two-seater sports cars. For some reason, the sixties in Britain was a particularly fertile period for the creation of this type of car and one of the most

16 | Motor Trader August 2016

recognisable of this type, and certainly the best selling of all of them, was the MG MGB. A two-door sports car manufactured by the British Motor Corporation (BMC), the MGB emerged in 1962 as a replacement for the very pretty MGA, and the affordable, and exceptionally good-looking, two-seater was a big hit more than 500,000 of the various versions of the MGB were built over the 18 years of its production life.

This rather splendid version rolled off the production line in 1966 and is now owned by Joanne Macdonald who, with husband Jason, runs Gin Gin Diesel in the small country town of Gin Gin, 50kms west of Bundaberg.

Joanne came to own the car in a rather unusual fashion – it was a gift to her from Jason. With the assistance of one the business's mechanics, Jason worked out of sight in Bundaberg on restoring the MG before presenting it to Joanne on her 30th birthday.

“Jason drove it to my birthday party and I was astounded,” says Joanne. “I couldn’t believe it. It was absolutely fantastic. He worked with one of our mechanics to get it done and they managed to keep it a secret from me.”

The car was in fairly good condition when Jason began the restoration with perhaps the biggest job being changing the car's colour.

“They changed the wheels to spoke rims and did a fair bit of work to the motor to get it up to standard,” says Joanne. “And it was repainted too. It was originally blue but red is the classic colour.”

Joanne hasn’t always been a car fan, having caught the classic car bug after meeting her husband. However, once she was hooked, she soon narrowed in on the style of car that really appealed to her, and particularly the MGB. “I got into cars because of Jason and I did, many years ago, see an MGB for sale. I went and had a look at it and that was what really spurred my interest in that type of car. It’s one of those cars that, when I first saw it, I just really liked the look and shape of it. Some things you like, some things you don’t and I do like the European-style car, that’s for sure. I’m not so much a fan of Australian muscle cars – Jason is, but not me.

I prefer the more ‘girly’ cars!”

Joanne says the MGB is reliable, fun to drive and doesn’t require a lot of time spent on keeping it running. She does, though, admit she doesn’t take it out for a spin as much as she would like.

“It is easy to maintain,” she says. “The most trouble I have is getting the battery to kick in so I can drive it. However, I really haven’t had to do anything to it in the years I have had it. But I don’t drive it as much as I should. I take it out for a drive on a Sunday afternoon, that’s about it!

DO YOU HAVE A PRIDE AND JOY IN THE GARAGE THAT YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE IN THE PAGES OF MOTOR TRADER? Contact Jonathan Nash at jonathann@

‘I used to be in mtaq.com.au or 07 3237 8721 and let’s the MG club in see if we can share your classic Bundaberg, and I with other members. did a few trips with them, but we are in Gin Gin now and Bundaberg is 50kms away. It’s just a bit hard to get over there, especially as we have kids and the MGB has only two seats!”

In a small country town like Gin Gin, it’s likely there aren’t many mint condition, two-seater, 50-year-old British sports cars, and there is little doubt that this prime MGB is a real head-turner. Joanne, however, says she’s not sure what her neighbours’ think when they see the car – she’s enjoying it too much to notice.

“There aren’t many cars like this in the area – there are a couple in Bundaberg that we see from time to time, but no one I know out here has one. And, to be honest, I don’t know how people react to it as I’m too busy driving it!

“It’s actually a really nice drive. The steering can be a bit rough perhaps, but it’s fine. And up here I can keep the soft-top down all the time. It’s lovely.”

August 2016 Motor Trader | 17

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From legal advice to business support, from highlighting industry issues to facilitating networking events, the MTAQ is here to support you.

MTA Queensland Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence Address Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113 Training +61 7 3722 3000 Fax +61 7 3844 4488 Email info@mtaq.com.au Website www.mtaq.com.au Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113

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Save with our Corporate Partners

Contents 19 Professional Circle training 27 Member profiles

BOB GEARS WHEEL ALIGNMENT BUNDABERG OUTDOOR POWER CENTRE

28 Industrial relations

“My role with the MTAQ represents an exciting challenge. It’s exciting to meet members and to highlight to the industry not only the benefits that being a member of the MTAQ can bring to their business but also the training opportunities available through the John Robinson MTA Institute.”

For Andrew, a career that involved the automotive industry was similarly inevitable.

His father owned a small workshop and Andrew completed his light vehicle apprenticeship at that shop before working in the dealership environment for a number of years as foreman, workshop controller and service advisor. Combined with his position at Burson Auto Parts, Andrew said it is that experience that helps him understand the broad range of issues confronting MTAQ’s membership base.

“The combination of experience that both John and I have means we understand the issues facing business and, consequently, we know where we can assist and how the MTAQ can give support,” he said.

“The MTAQ offers great support that really does benefit business.

Take industrial relations, for example.

The fact that a member business can make just one phone call and get the support and advice they need on important employment issues, is tremendous.

“The MTAQ is a highly respected organisation that is here to help and it is exciting to be a part of the team.”

August 2016 Motor Trader | 19

E S S E N T I A L S

ESSENTIALS ESSENTIALS

S THE MTA Queensland (MTAQ) continues to expand its services to members through initiatives such as the Professional Circle, a new team has been assembled to engage with industry and promote the invaluable benefits Andrew Bear that come with being a member of the MTAQ. John Robinson and Andrew Bear have joined the Association and will work closely with senior Business Development Manager Anthony Bonaccorso to develop ever-closer ties with the automotive business community throughout the state.

Both John and Andrew bring a great deal of experience and enthusiasm to the Association and are already engaging with industry since starting their roles in July. And they make a formidable team, having previously worked together at Burson Auto Parts.

John, 26, started his career as a 15-year-old, school-based mechanical apprentice and has worked as a dealership service advisor and in sales for Valvoline, Burson Auto Parts and Blackwoods.

A motorsport fan, he said it was always likely that he would find a career in the automotive industry and is excited about the challenges and opportunities of working with the MTAQ. “My dad used to do a bit of drag racing when I was a kid, and a couple of my uncles are car enthusiasts,” he said. “It was inevitable really – I don’t think I ever had a choice!

M E M B E R S

NEW TEAM TO DEVELOP MTAQ BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT MEMBERS A MEMBERS

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Professional Circle training

FIRST STUDENTS GRADUATE FROM MTAI ONLINE COURSES

T

HE MTA INSTITUTE has welcomed the first graduates from its new online sales and dealer courses. The courses utilise the recently launched Learning Management System (LMS), developed by the MTAI over the past year, which offers training to students via an online portal.

Designed to enable the MTAI to offer programs in both metropolitan and regional Queensland, the platform is proving advantageous to student’s who are considering making a career transition into car dealership sales, or who are looking to sharpen their skills.

Ross Renall is the first student to complete the Motor Vehicle Dealer’s course (which automatically includes the Salesperson’s course). A mining company trainer and assessor who has been based on Groote Island in the Gulf of Carpentaria for the past 12 months, Ross is also the owner of Silver Fox Tyre Centre in Redcliffe.

He employs a full-time manager and several other staff at his workshop whilst he remains committed to his

20 | Motor Trader August 2016

mining contracts in the Northern Territory and is looking to expand his interests by moving in to vehicle sales.

After completing the Dealer course, Ross is now planning to enrol his workshop manager into the online

salesperson’s course to ensure business continuity, compliance with vehicle sales regulations, and for peace of mind in his absence.

“When the workshop and staff are having a quiet week, it’s a good opportunity to focus on getting them the training they need to gain more knowledge,” he said. “So the idea is to start purchasing vehicles from dealer-only auctions, fix them up, and re-sell them to try and generate extra revenue when the workshop is quiet.

“I previously completed my certificate III and IV Trainer/Assessor course in a classroom, so completing a qualification entirely online was a new experience. I’ve now completed both courses, and while it took a bit to get my head around it, I really enjoyed it and it was a very positive experience.

“Anytime I needed help it was there, and the real bonus is being able to complete your course work remotely. I am looking forward to getting my manager to complete the course which will ultimately help the business.”

30 year-old Matthew Tahir, from John Cole Toyota in Atherton, is the first student to graduate from the Salesperson’s course. Having previously worked in real estate, Matthew made the transition into vehicle sales eight months ago and found the online course to be particularly useful as it enabled him to learn all the intricacies of vehicle sales from home and in his own time.

“It was really interesting learning

MTAI TRAINER PROFILE

What geographical area do you service?

My areas of service are from Morayfield to Yandina and out to Bribie Island.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your role as a trainer for MTA Institute?

I get great satisfaction from watching young people who have little self-confidence and limited skill, or even ambition, become qualified tradespeople with clear direction and purpose in their future.

What is your specialised area?

What do you believe is the most important aspect of training?

I completed my qualification in 1990.

I spent several years working in dealerships and small workshops before going into business myself, running a small automotive/auto electrical business on the Northside of Brisbane.

I feel that giving practical examples of the trade and applying this in a one-on-one environment is what resonates with young people. They want to know that you’ve been there and done that and are speaking from first-hand experience.

I pride myself on being approachable and non-judgmental. My students know that they can approach me with any issue/ concern and we’ll work it out together.

When did you become a trainer for MTA Institute of Technology?

Why should someone consider a career in the automotive industry?

I commenced at MTAQ in 2007.

Finding the right trade can be tricky so

Light Vehicle, Heavy Vehicle and Motorcycle.

What is your background in the automotive industry?

my advice to future students is that you need to choose the industry that you are passionate about. If you can work all day on someone else’s car and then go home to tinker with your own ‘project’ because you love the feeling of making that diagnosis or hearing that engine finally ‘purr’, then the automotive industry is for you!

What is the best piece of advice you can give to an apprentice starting out in the industry?

It’s not going to be easy and, yes, the pay isn’t the best for the first few years, but understand that this is a right of passage that will eventually give you the opportunity to be a qualified tradesperson, give you avenues into other careers, and one day even be your own boss. You might even decide to be a trainer yourself one day!

When you’re not training, what do you like to do?

Camping, fishing, trail riding with my family, never-ending projects (cars, motorbikes, and home).

August 2016 Motor Trader | 21

E S S E N T I A L S

DARRYL SHIELS

role is a role in which you’re never sitting around. It’s intense but I enjoy it.

“One of my colleagues has been in the car sales industry for 30 years, and it has been really good to learn the theory and also have their experience of the practical side of things on-hand.”

The MTA Institute’s Learning Management System will, over the coming months, be expanded to include other courses, allowing students from across the state to access more of MTAI’s course portfolio.

“The Learning Management System

is about giving us greater reach to students in regional and remote areas,” said Paul Kulpa, General Manager of MTA Institute when the LMS was first launched.

“The benefits are substantial.

In terms of the Sales and Dealer courses, it allows students to enrol at any time and complete the course at their own pace. Any other documentation can also be uploaded through the system and be checked by the trainer.

“A licence application still has to be placed with the Office of Fair Trading, but all the training required to get the Statement of Attainment that will enable them to gain that licence can be done through the LMS.” To find out more about the online Motor Vehicle Salesperson course and Motor Vehicles Dealer course call 1800 884 137 or email: training@mtai.edu.au

M E M B E R S

about how to manage stamp duties, how to handle deposits, including the legal side of things such as contracts, a lot of things that I previously did not know,” he said.

“I found the LMS easy to use, and I completed most of the modules at home, at night, during my own time. Up here at Atherton, it can be difficult getting to Brisbane or other cities where I could get my licence, so I found the remote learning aspect of the course was really handy.”

Already looking at moving into management, Matthew said he enjoys every aspect of the sales process and learning the theory side of the business through the course was a very useful experience.

“Negotiating with customers can be pretty tough, but it’s very rewarding when you see the satisfaction they get from a sales process handled properly from start to finish. The salesperson’s

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Professional Circle training

MTAI STUDENT IN TOWNSVILLE’S FAST LANE WITH V8 SUPERCARS’ TEAM VORTEX J ONATHAN HUCKETT, AN MTA Institute student and massive motorsport fan, recently realised a longtime ambition – an ambition that would surely make many a petrol-head green with envy.

The 18-year-old, first-year light vehicle mechanical apprentice with Burdekin Motors in Ayr, spent three days with V8 Supercars’ Vortex Racing team at the Townsville 400 event, working side-by-side with Craig Lowndes’ elite pit crew.

The chance to work in the pits was a childhood dream for Jonathan, who has attended the Townsville V8 event every year since he was 11. And, by all accounts, the event went extremely well, with the young apprentice impressing the team's seasoned professionals.

The opportunity to join the crack Vortex crew was organised by team sponsor and MTA Queensland

22 | Motor Trader August 2016

Jonathan works on the Team Vortex car

“WHEN I FIRST GOT

THE CALL FROM MARCELLO SAYING I HAD BEEN NOMINATED AND WON THE OPPORTUNITY, I COULD NOT BELIEVE IT. IT WAS A DREAM COME TRUE.”

corporate partner MTAA Super and Jonathan discovered he had been chosen for the event when Marcello Riotto, MTA Institute Operations Manager, got in touch.

“When I first got the call from Marcello saying I had been nominated and won the opportunity, I could not believe it. It was a dream come true,” said Jonathan.

As for the work itself, it was exciting, thrilling and a real challenge.

“I worked on Team Vortex’s Holden Commodore VF, driven by Craig Lowndes. I was an extra set of hands, helping out the pros and the panel guys throughout the day.

“The first race got very aggressive and we had a lot of panels to repair and replace, including rebuilding everything around the car. I did a lot of helping out with the tyres, but mostly extra-hand work.”

M E M B E R S E S S E N T I A L S

Like many of his peers studying automotive, Jonathan is passionate about motorsport and cars and, in particular, Holden.

“I have always loved cars - people call me ‘nuts’ because I am that dedicated to them. I love Holdens, old-school Monaros and H-series – nothing comes close to beating them in terms of street appeal.”

Exposed to the industry through

“I HAVE HAD MY FIRST PROPER EXPERIENCE WORKING IN THE PITS OUTSIDE OF DRAG RACING, AND BEING EMPLOYED THERE IS THE NEXT STEP.”

Jonathan Huckett and Craig Lowndes

his father - who competes in drag racing - Jonathan understands the high-pressure environment of the pits and enjoys the challenge of keeping a high performance racing vehicle in peak condition. Having now worked on his ultimate racing car, Jonathan has his eyes firmly set on a career in motorsport.

And things have got off to a pretty good start – his experience working with his dad, along with his mechanical skills, impressed the Vortex crew enough that they have

invited him to return to work with them in future years.

“I have had my first proper experience working in the pits outside of drag racing, and being employed there is the next step,” said Jonathan. “They’ve invited me back next year which is exciting, and I am already counting down towards that date!

“When I finish my apprenticeship in four years’ time, working in a crew at motorsports events, well, that would be the perfect job for me.”

August 2016 Motor Trader | 23

Hybrid Electric Vehicle Introductory Course Right training.

Right place.

Right way.

Course Overview Lucrative opportunities exist for businesses willing to adapt to new market trends.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) have arrived and new models are on the way.

In just a few years, HEVs will become one of the biggest automotive growth areas in Australia. Mastering the latest technology takes time; it’s complicated and dangerous.

Therefore ‘learning on the job’ isn’t an option - leave it to the experts.

Delivered by industry professionals, the Hybrid Electric Vehicle Course is designed specifically for automotive repairers wanting to familiarise themselves on HEVs. All the information you need to understand hybrid technology and associated safe working practices will be covered in this basic introductory session.

1. Understand principles of HEV vehicle technology 2. Tools, usage and safety requirements 3. Component identification and location 4. S kills and knowledge required to deactivate and isolate the high voltage supply system in HEV Time:

6:00pm to 9:00pm (light refreshments provided from 5:30pm)

Location: MTA Institute, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains QLD Cost:

$330 per person (Inc GST)

Learner Requirements Automotive trade knowledge is desirable but not mandatory. Tools and relevent equipment will be provided. Standard workshop attire required.

Enrol Should you wish to enrol, or require further information, please contact one of our friendly staff on 3722 3000.

Address Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113 Tel (07) 3722 3000 Toll Free 1800 884 137 Email courses@mtai.edu.au Website mtai.edu.au Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113

20150292

MTA Institute Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence

Student of the Month

ACOB GONZALEZ IS MTAQ’s Student of the Month for July.

The 22-year-old, second-year auto electrical apprentice, working with Greenslopes Auto Electrical in Brisbane, has overcome significant adversity throughout his apprenticeship.

However, despite a tough personal battle with anxiety and depression that has been so severe that he was, at one time, unable to leave his home, he has battled through and is now enjoying considerable success, proving to be a truly outstanding apprentice and highly-valued employee.

“Jacob has to overcome a disability that would see most people just give up and stay in bed,” said MTA Institute trainer Paul Tugwell.

“I have trained Jacob for just a year and in that time I have seen a marked improvement in him. He has not only overcome this disabling condition, but has proven to be an exceptional student with the knowledge of a 4th-year apprentice.

“His dedication to his employer and their customers is top-notch.

All his work is completed to a very professional standard and he always has a great attitude.”

Initially commencing his mechanical apprenticeship with Holden, Jacob obtained employment with Greenslopes Auto Electrical after being given the task of delivering parts

It’s not going to be a huge leap taking over, except for learning how to invoice and manage bills and cash-flow.

“I am really excited to give it a go once I am done, and my apprenticeship and training through MTA Institute is setting me up for that.”

Jacob Gonzalez and Michael Dilkes When asked about what he enjoys most about to the business. It was through this his auto-electrical apprenticeship, arrangement that Jacob was able to Jacob highlighted his training sessions build good rapport with workshop with Paul as well as the challenges owner Michael Dilkes – a relationship he faces with every different job that that has blossomed and seen Jacob comes into the shop. become a most trusted work colleague “Paul has taught me a lot since who has been earmarked to take over I started here, and he’s the master the business at some point in the future. when it comes to anything related to “I suffer really quite badly from electric vehicles and diagnostics. This anxiety and depression, and for a is an industry that’s going to be pretty long time I was too afraid to leave the big in the future as more cars become house,” said Jacob. “I was unemployed, electric or hybrid, so I am lucky to alone, and completely unsure of what have access to his expertise.” my future held at one point.

With his practical studies “Taking a bit of down-time, and making steady progress, Jacob is confidently getting back into the confident that he is on the right work I love has been beneficial in path to overcoming his anxiety and overcoming some of my setbacks. depression and says he is ready to “My work has always stood by and assume ownership of the business supported me and, once I am qualified once he completes his apprenticeship. in two years, if everything goes to plan, “I can’t wait to get qualified, and set Michael wants me to take over the myself up as the foreman and owner business. of an established business,” he said.

“I practically run the place half the “The automotive industry is tough time,” he added. “Michael is always but rewarding and you’ve always got in-and-out, so I run the shop, take all to make sure the work you’re doing is the calls and set appointments, handle the business and sort everything out. done properly.”

August 2016 Motor Trader | 25

E S S E N T I A L S

JACOB BATTLES THROUGH ADVERSITY TO FIND APPRENTICESHIP SUCCESS J

M E M B E R S

Professional Circle training

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Professional Circle training

GAMBLE PAYS OFF FOR GEN Y ENTREPRENEUR J ED SHERIDAN OF Diesel Performance and Mechanical in Gympie exemplifies all that is promising about the next generation of automotive industry professionals.

Articulate, digitally savvy, technically gifted and ambitious, the MTA Institute graduate, at just 24 years of age, already operates his own workshop — built from the ground up on the foundations of his hard work and dedication.

There’s been a lot of debate about the perceived lax work ethic of members of ‘Generation Y’, often referred to as ‘Generation Now’. For those out of the millennial lingo loop, ‘Generation Now’ refers to today’s young ‘self-empowered, digitally connected and self-confident rule-breakers’ who, thanks to the internet, expect everything handed to them on-demand.

Jed Sheridan, however, is challenging this stereotype. He has spent the past few years with his eyes on the self-employment prize, learning and perfecting his trade with reputable employers in some of the most isolated parts of the country.

Originally from a small mining town in South Australia, Jed was exposed to diesel mechanics by his tradesman father at an early age and commenced his Certificate III in

Jed Sheridan

26 | Motor Trader August 2016

Automotive Mechanical Technology apprenticeship straight after graduating high school.

After moving to central Queensland in search of new opportunity, he worked for a number of workshops and, like many of his peers living in the region, did a stint working in the coal mines to complete part of his apprenticeship.

It was the mining industry and his passion for diesel mechanics and electrics that enabled Jed to establish some serious connections and he eventually secured a contracting gig with Hancock Prospecting’s Roy Hill mine in the Pilbara. Returning with a wealth of technical knowledge, he decided to strike out on his own and establish Diesel Performance and Mechanical.

“Work just started flowing in when I got back from Roy Hill,” he said. “I had a lot of people asking me to work on their 4WD’s and I spent six months doing mobile work whilst deciding where to set up my workshop in Gympie. When I bit the bullet, I trusted my instincts, took a gamble and assumed all the risk myself, and never looked back.”

Jed credits his recent success in part to the training he received from MTA Institute trainer Terry Palfrey, saying the one-on-one mentorship

was of immense value.

“Terry had come straight out of the garage as a mechanic, went straight into training, and really knows his stuff.

We got along straight away,” he said.

Already investing in new equipment such as a hoist and planning to purchase a dyno, Jed said he is in the process of signing a lease for an adjacent workshop as he expands his in-demand business.

“I’m looking to take someone on over the coming months, but I’m still working out whether it’s going to be a parts person in the office or an apprentice,” he said. “Eventually, we will offer more performance and modification work, including diagnostics, because that’s where the industry is heading. We’re going to see a lot more electric vehicles and alternative fuels come into the picture soon.”

To have established a business and be so successful at such a young age shows a remarkable amount of maturity and confidence, traits that Jed’s former trainer Terry Palfrey saw in him early in his apprenticeship.

“I knew from day one that starting his own business was the right way for Jed,” said Terry. “He’s courteous, has a great attitude, excellent workmanship, and he will go far.”

all aspects of business.

Surviving the highs and lows of the heavy vehicle business.

What is the best thing about working in your industry?

The satisfaction that comes from doing a good job and getting repeat business.

What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given?

Don’t bury your head in the sand and think you know everything.

Bob Gears Wheel Alignment Location: Kunda Park Type of business: Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Number of employees: 5

How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland?

From industry contacts.

Trading since: 1999

How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business?

MTAQ member since: 1999

Helpful with industry advice for

What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ? Do it. You won’t be sorry. It’s money well spent.

Availability of industry information.

What has been your proudest business achievement to date?

Relocating business to current premises after 2011 and 2013 floods.

What is the best thing about working in your industry?

The variety of customers we see and the work we receive.

What is the best piece of business advice you have ever given or been given?

Give customers the best service possible and treat them with respect.

Bundaberg Outdoor Power Centre Location: Bundaberg Type of business: Motorcycle and power equipment dealership Number of employees: 5 Trading since: 2007 MTAQ member since: 2013

What would you say to someone thinking about joining MTAQ? Good value for money. Do it.

How did you hear about the Motor Trades Association of Queensland?

MTA Queensland representative called on the business.

How has being an MTAQ member benefited your business?

August 2016 Motor Trader | 27

E S S E N T I A L S

What has been your proudest business achievement to date?

M E M B E R S

Member profiles

E S S E N T I A L S M E M B E R S

Industrial relations IMPORTANCE OF MEETING ALL AWARD OBLIGATIONS TO EMPLOYEES Recent, very significant penalties that have been imposed by the Fair Work Commission on businesses found to be underpaying staff have highlighted how important it is to be aware of all award obligations to employees. The primary obligation is, obviously, to pay no less than award rates. MTAQ publishes and makes available to all members an award wages guide which shows all current award rates and allowances.

Furthermore, advice can be sought over the phone, via email or by accessing the members only portion of our web site. Members should be very attentive to all email advices sent out by MTAQ because ignorance of current rates would not be accepted in a prosecution for underpayment by a Fair Work inspector.

With the increasing dependence on email as the most efficient method of member contact, it’s important that members provide MTAQ with current email contact details and update those details if there are staff changes. We strive to provide timely and accurate advice but, if the right person at your firm does not see the information we send out, the system breaks down.

TED KOWALSKI INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS MANAGER

ASSISTANCE WITH DISMISSAL MATTERS Any member considering dismissing an employee should always seek the advice of our industrial

“ANY MEMBER

CONSIDERING DISMISSING AN EMPLOYEE SHOULD ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF OUR INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS EXPERTS BEFORE MAKING ANY DECISION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE CORRECT PROCEDURE CAN LEAVE YOUR BUSINESS EXPOSED TO AN UNFAIR DISMISSAL CLAIM.”

relations experts before making any decision. Failure to follow the correct procedure can leave your business exposed to an unfair dismissal claim.

If you do find yourself confronted with such a claim, you can also seek our assistance in managing the process towards settlement.

A fee is charged for this assistance because of the amount of time that can go into handling these matters, but the fee is considerably less than you could expect to pay if you sought legal advice. Having expert assistance on hand can mean that the claim is handled with the minimum of stress on the business and that any settlement agreed to is minimised.

Similar assistance can be provided for wage claims and discrimination, bullying or harassment matters.

MTA QUEENSLAND WELCOMES THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS Business Name

Principal/s

Address

Email

Division

Autosports Brisbane Bridgestone Select Ipswich Car Choice Pty Ltd Elite Automotive Fixit Autocare Orix Australia Corporation Limited Power Curve Performance Samford Automotive Mobile Services Pty Ltd Williams Auto Wreckers & Mechanical

Justin Trivett Michael Pesselato John Gierke Paul Koutsouhos Sage Teng Grant Harrison Emma Powter Mark Collis Tanya Williams

134 Wecker Road MANSFIELD, Q 4122 5-11 Downs Street, IPSWICH, Q 4305 809 Fairfield Road, YEERONGPILLY, Q 4105 Unit 4/166 Beatty Road, ARCHERFIELD, Q 4108 2/31 Boyland Avenue, COOPERS PLAINS, Q 4108 779 Kingsford Smith Drive, EAGLE FARM, Q 4009 1/19 Windsor Road, BURNSIDE, Q 4560 2/1147 South Pine Road, ARANA HILLS, Q 4054 1519 Raglan Station Road, RAGLAN, Q 4697

accounts@autosportsbrisbane.com.au Pesselato@bigpond.com carchoiceptyltd@bigpond.com sales@eliteauto.com.au info@fixitautocare.com.au Grant.harrison@orix.com.au info@powercurveqld.com.au service@samfordautomotive.com.au williamsautowreckers@yahoo.com

QMDC TIDQ ARD AED AED RVID AED AED APRD

28 | Motor Trader August 2016

Investment matters

MARKET WRAP

G

LOBAL EQUITY MARKETS suffered falls in response to the unexpected outcome of the Brexit vote, which will see the United Kingdom withdraw from the European Union. The majority of the falls were recovered towards the end of the month as the impact of the decision on global growth is unlikely to be material.

The US Federal Reserve opted to keep rates unchanged. Although they signalled that there could be two rate hikes later in the year, this would seem less likely given the result of the British referendum.

The S&P/ASX 200 Accumulation Index returned -2.5% for the month, ending the 2016 financial year up a modest +0.6%. The sectors that made a positive contribution to the index were Utilities (+5.0%), Materials (+0.6%) and Consumer Discretionary (-0.2%).

Key sectors that underperformed were Information Technology (-7.6%), Financials (-4.2%) and Consumer Staples (-4.0%).

BREXIT The outcome of the Brexit vote has clearly come as a shock to global markets, which had been following polls and betting markets that indicated the United Kingdom would remain in the European Union.

The impact on the global economy will depend on the deal negotiated by the UK with Europe. In some respects, globalisation is in retreat, which is a negative from a global growth perspective. Nonetheless, early comments from European leaders suggest that a rational course of action will be followed, and we think that self-interest will drive a rational outcome (which would have a modest impact on global growth).

Given the shock of the vote it is not surprising to see markets react violently in the short term. Despite the direct trade, investment and earnings, consequences for Australia of Brexit are likely to be relatively modest (3.5% of Australian exports are to the UK) and the immediate moves in the local equity, bond and currency markets have not been dissimilar to those offshore.

Clearly companies exposed to the British pound will suffer from a translation impact of the currency.

In addition, there is some risk to stocks exposed to Europe should the economy suffer from a downturn.

Of greater uncertainty is the broader impact on global growth and global credit markets. We tend to think that the market is likely to overreact on the broader implications, which is likely to create some interesting opportunities.

The greater impact on markets can come from a permanent de-rate to accommodate heightened geopolitical risk. However, with interest rates likely to be moved lower, this will provide support for the market. Ultimately this type of volatility can create significant stock opportunities and we will remain alert to these.

DISCLAIMER This document provides general information only and is not intended to be a recommendation to invest in any product or financial service mentioned above. Investment in a DNR Capital individually managed account can only be made on completion of all the required documentation.

Whilst DNR Capital has used its best endeavours to ensure the information within this document is accurate it cannot be relied upon in any way and recipients must make their own enquiries concerning the accuracy of the information within.

August 2016 Motor Trader | 29

Concept corner

AM-RB 001

ASTON MARTIN AND RED BULL RACING DELIVER THUNDEROUS HYPERCAR

T

HIS IS THE AM-RB 001 – a stunning, concept hypercar born from the partnership of Aston Martin and Red Bull Racing.

It goes without saying that a collaboration between the British luxury brand and a top Formula One team would result in the creation of something truly stunning and the AM-RB 001 is certainly that.

Created by the combination of talents of Adrian Newey, Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer, and Marek Reichman, Aston Martin EVP and Chief Creative Officer, the AM-RB 001 is built around a lightweight carbon fibre structure, and boasts radical underfloor aerodynamics, designed by Newey, that deliver, says Aston Martin, ‘unprecedented levels of 30 | Motor Trader August 2016

downforce in a road-legal car’.

At the heart of this stunning beast is a new, mid-mounted, naturallyaspirated V12 engine with the power to achieve a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio; 1 bhp per kilo of weight which, if rumours are true, will mean power in the region of 1000bhp.

“I’ve long harboured the desire to design a road car,” said Newey.

“The formation of Red Bull Advanced Technologies brought me a step closer to realising that ambition, but I believed we should work with an automotive manufacturer. Aston Martin was at the top of my list.

The synergy between Red Bull Racing and Aston Martin is clear. I knew Red Bull Racing had the ability to handle the pure performance aspects, but

Aston Martin’s experience of making beautiful, fast and comfortable GT cars is of great benefit to the project.”

“Working so closely alongside Adrian and an organisation like Red Bull Racing is a fabulous experience,” said Marek Reichman.

“The objectives we’ve set for the car ensures there has never been an Aston Martin - or any car, actually quite like the AM-RB 001.”

Production of the car will take place at Aston Martin’s facility at Gaydon in the UK. Total volume will be between 99 and 150 road cars and 25 track-only versions, with first deliveries commencing in 2018.

Pricing will, say reports, likely nudge somewhere over $5million.

“T HE OBJECTIVES WE’VE SET FOR THE CAR ENSURES THERE HAS NEVER BEEN AN ASTON MARTIN - OR ANY CAR, ACTUALLY QUITE LIKE THE AM-RB 001.”

MAREK REICHMAN, ASTON MARTIN EVP AND CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER

August 2016 Motor Trader | 31

Paintless Dent Repair Introductory Course Right training.

Course Overview

Right place.

Paintless Dent Repair, or PDR, is the method by which dents can be removed from the bodywork of a vehicle leaving the original finish and paintwork intact.

Right way.

A wide range of imperfections can be corrected using PDR techniques, though it is most famously used for the repair of hail damaged vehicles.

MTA Institute is running a two-day Fundamentals of Paintless Dent Repair course.

The PDR technician uses special tools, glues and tabs to either push out dents from the underside of the bodywork or pull them out from the exterior of the panel. Specialist lighting and reflection boards and ‘tapping down’ techniques are used to ensure a perfect finish.

The PDR industry is experiencing a massive upturn. It is a fast and efficient method for the repair of many imperfections, and skilled technicians are much sought-after in the body repair industry.

MTA Institute has partnered with industry-leading company PDR President to offer this course in the fundamentals of Paintless Dent Repair.

In this course you will be taught the basic tips and techniques behind the successful practice of paintless dent repair. These include: 1. Metal movements and theory 2. Lighting (fog and line boards) 3. Tool selection 4. Access and leverage 5. Glue pulling Time:

9am to 4pm, lunch included

Location: MTA Institute, Eight Mile Plains Cost:

$1650 per person (Inc GST)

Enrol Should you wish to enrol, or require further information, please contact one of our friendly staff on 3722 3000.

Address Freeway Office Park, Building 8, 2728 Logan Road, Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113 Tel (07) 3722 3000 Toll Free 1800 884 137 Email courses@mtai.edu.au Website mtai.edu.au Postal PO Box 4530 Eight Mile Plains, Queensland, Australia 4113

20150268

MTA Institute Sir Jack Brabham Automotive Centre of Excellence

Industry insight

WHY DOES MY LENDER NEED A BUSINESS PLAN? “ Y OU MAY THINK to yourself, “I know my business and its potential – why do I need to have a business plan? It won’t make any difference to write it down!”

The problem with this thinking is that a lender can’t get inside your head and have a full understanding of all your ideas and thoughts. They need to be confident you’ve thought of everything and have a clear picture of your goals, aspirations and potential pitfalls.

This is why you need to get it out of your head and down on paper.

In the process of putting together a Business Plan you will smooth out the process of building your business and engaging others to help you build it.

BENEFITS OF A BUSINESS PLAN 1. Provides a clear roadmap for business development and growth for you and your team (which might currently be just you, but think of the future).

2. Helps you to secure finance to grow.

3. Creates strategies to achieve your goals.

4. Helps you to avoid pitfalls you may not have considered.

5. Helps you to prioritise actions for maximum efficiency.

WHAT A BUSINESS PLAN SHOULD INCLUDE 1. Details about the business such as name, structure, ABN, ACN, location, date started, owner experience.

2. Information about your products and services, market position, unique selling proposition, anticipated demand, pricing strategy, value proposition, growth potential, R&D plans, intellectual property strategy.

PRODUCING A PLAN IS A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO WORK WITH OTHERS TO HELP YOU DEVELOP YOUR IDEAS AND BOUNCE IDEAS OFF EACH OTHER. THEY COULD BE YOUR CURRENT TEAM OR A BUSINESS ADVISOR.”

3. Research of the market for your product/service, your marketing strategy, customer demographics, key customers, customer management, competitors, advertising, sales.

4. Your Vision, goals and mission.

5. Finances, insurances, risk management, legal considerations, payment methods, credit policy, finance required, start up costs, budgets for Profit and Loss and Balance Sheet, Cash flow forecast, Break-even analysis.

6. Operational plans e.g. production, suppliers, plant and equipment, inventory, technology, communications, quality control, affiliations, environmental impacts, community impact and engagement, distribution etc.

7. SWOT Analysis i.e. your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

8. Staff plans including Organisation Chart, recruitment plans, training programs and skills retention strategies.

Producing a Plan is a great opportunity to work with others to help you develop your ideas and bounce ideas off each other. They could be your current team or a Business Advisor. If you want to grow

your business this is a great time to start building a trusted team around you for the future.

Once your Plan is done you also need an implementation program for the strategies in your plan. This will mean prioritising the tasks e.g. you may need to do some market research before heading off and developing a product that you’re not sure anyone will buy. Once you’re confident there’s a market, you need to work out what it will cost to deliver the product/ service before setting a price, as well as researching competitors’ pricing and so on.

Whilst a Business Plan is needed for a loan application, it also serves as a source of inspiration for yourself and your team to build a picture in your minds of the type of business you want to build into the future.

As well as an exciting vision of the future for you and your team, a Business Plan needs to be used as a current working document and visited regularly as an overarching ‘Action Plan’ for your business.

The business growth side may seem like the best part for you … but financial side of things is the most important for lenders and investors.

Profit and Cash flow are the lifeblood flowing through the veins of the business and if they dry up it won’t be able to survive and reach your goals and aspirations. This is often overlooked in the excitement of getting a new project off the ground.

It pays big dividends to get some help with this aspect from someone who really understands the ‘big picture’ financial issues surrounding business start up and ongoing management.

For more information, go to businessnumbersmadeeasy.com August 2016 Motor Trader | 33

Driving your future 1300 362 415 mtaasuper.com.au

08/16

SuperRatings does not issue, sell, guarantee or underwrite this product. Go to superratings.com.au for details of its ratings criteria. This document is issued by Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238 718) of Level 3, 39 Brisbane Avenue Barton ACT 2600, Trustee of the MTAA Superannuation Fund (ABN 74 559 365 913). Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty. Limited has ownership interests in Industry Super Holdings Pty Ltd and Members Equity Bank Limited. The information provided is of a general nature and does not take into account your specific needs or personal situation. You should assess your financial position and personal objectives before making any decision based on this information. We also recommend that you seek advice from a licensed financial adviser. The MTAA Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), an important document containing all the information you need to make a decision about MTAA Super, can be obtained by calling MTAA Super on 1300 362 415 or visiting mtaasuper.com.au/handbooks. You should consider the PDS in making a decision.