Turbo Magazine - March 2021

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/2021

March

SOUL, ELECTRIFIED Taycan Steps Into the Limelight

Robert GATTEREDER CEO, PM Group

Porsche Centre Brighton

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eaningful and positive change starts with education. It is through learning that we as human beings adapt to changes in our world while refining our skills to better serve others.

Our dealership’s dedicated technical, sales and marketing teams have been through an extensive education and training process to ready ourselves for the first customer deliveries of the all-electric Porsche Taycan.

With Porsche Cars Australia’s immensely talented, passionate and knowledgeable training team, we are now ready to confidently welcome the new Taycan – along with the subsequent generations of electric Porsche vehicles that will steadily grow into an integral branch of the Porsche product family.

Now that our team has been fully trained in the practical aspects of our electric future, we and our specialist partners are prepared to help you become an adept owner of an electric Porsche.

Robert GATTEREDER

855 Nepean Highway Brighton VIC 3186 P: 03 9536 1911 W: www.porschebrighton.com.au

The nature of our vehicles power source is only one of many profound changes we in this business are experiencing.

While the last 12 months have thrown many challenges at my Porsche Centre Brighton team, all members have been extremely proactive in ensuring that you, as Porsche owners, are fulfilled drivers of these beautiful machines.

One initiative I started within the PM Group is a constant learning culture called ‘Book of Life’. This program encourages all of our team members to continue their learning – not just technically or vocationally, but also in the wider sense of encouraging personal growth while fostering the team’s customer relationships.

Turbo magazine accurately reflects the remarkable stories and profound learning we enjoy by interacting with all of you. I know you will enjoy learning more from these unique stories.

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CONTENTS

06 Soul, electrified

Taycan Steps Into the Limelight.

08 Heart-racing excitement

Whether you race Porsches or watch Porsches racing … excitement is the outcome.

16 Taycan’s accolades roll in

Accolades for the Taycan have streamed in from the very first review, and continue.

18 What do cars and diamonds have in common?

Most cars, and most diamonds, are not genuinely ‘high performance’. However, both Porsche cars and Holloway Diamonds meet this exacting standard.

22 Training for a new chapter

Taycan’s Australian arrival loomed large on the horizon in 2020 so a new Australian training centre emerged.

26 Unquestionably perfect pre-owned Porsches

Every Porsche customer is a privilege; a Porsche pre-owned car customer is as important as a new car customer.

30 It’s always about the engineering

Goran Lukic, Pre-Owned Manager at Porsche Centre Brighton, discusses his skills and passions.

32 Spectacular road trips

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s best-known drives. Here are four more spectacular road trips that prove Victoria is well worth a visit.

38 Esport action attracts Aussie talent

Australians are taking on the best in the world, winning races and admiration.

40 Taking the plunge in the Portsea Swim Classic Six degrees of separation was apparent when Porsche Centre Brighton’s own showed his true colours in this renowned race.

42 Exciting times for Beaumaris Soccer Club

A growing club is now growing its facilities to match its talent.

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TAYCAN STEPS INTO THE LIMELIGHT Soul, Electrified

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aycan was eagerly awaited by Australia, and its stunning launch heralded the first step into a new era for Porsche Centre Brighton.

Four Taycans lit up the floor of Victoria’s superb Melbourne Museum in Carlton driving electric energy through the invited guests. Taycan’s electric energy in real terms is outstanding acceleration of 0 - 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and 100 - 200 km/h in 6.9 sec.

Rounds of applause followed the reveal, then guests walked around the four Taycan models to see what the future of Australian luxury cars looked like in the flesh.

Guests were treated to a spectacular light show with a range of sophisticated entertainment all punctuated by elegant food and wines.

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Taycan launch at the Melbourne Museum Photographer Lisa Saad Photographer Lighting Design BDESIGN

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Heart-racing excitement Whether you race Porsches or watch Porsches racing … excitement is the outcome.

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orsche’s stronger, faster new 911 GT3 Cup car will set hearts racing even faster as the world’s top-selling racing car heads to the tracks in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup races as the Formula One support race, in addition to the national Porsche Carrera Cups in Germany, France, Asia, Benelux and the US. In 1990, Porsche debuted the very first 911 Cup car based on the 964. Five generations hence, 4,251 cars have been produced – one of the world’s most popular race cars, and for good reason.

The 911 GT3 Cup car is based on the roadgoing 911.

‘The 911 made history as the baseline model for the Carrera Cups and the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup,’ says Michael Dreiser, Director Sales Porsche Motorsport. ‘No other racing car has found as many satisfied customers since 1990 as the 911.

‘The new 911 GT3 Cup starts a new chapter. Our goal is to pass the 5,000 mark in production over the coming years. Like its ancestral lineage, this model will also assist a whole new generation of talented racing drivers on their path to professional motorsport and shape the face of our customer sport commitment around the world.’

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Groundwork for the latest model was started in 2018 with the goals of improving performance while achieving a more aggressive design, better handling, and greater durability – all with less outlay in time, maintenance, and sustainability.

These things and more have been achieved in the 911 GT3 Cup car with a new wider turbo-spec body, combining a more muscular appearance with optimised aerodynamics. Its lightweight body houses a superior wheel-tyre combination with 12” rims on the front and 13” on the rear, typical for GT racing’s revolutionary effect on handling.

The front wheels are now controlled by double wishbones and Uniball bearings, ensuring more precise turn-in as with the 911 RSR, Porsche’s current top racing model. Fully electromechanical power steering has been introduced for the first time, eliminating the need for a hydraulic pump and lines.

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Porsche’s engineers have designed the body in 30 percent steel and 70 percent aluminium after increases in mandatory safety equipment added weight.

With this change in composition, the car remains within the same weight range as the previous model. Doors, engine hood and rear wing are all constructed of carbon fibre–reinforced plastic.

A spectacular rear wing generates even more aerodynamic downforce, adjustable in 11 stages and ensuring exceptional stability around fast corners.

This innovation also amplifies the 911 GT3 Cup car’s purposeful look while emphasising its wider, bolder stance.

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To give this newcomer its deserved authority, the engine of this new 911 GT3 Cup car produces around 375kW – 25kW more than its predecessor.

This should translate to a cut of around one second per lap with an engine remaining true to the marque – a four-litre water-cooled flat six with an 8,750rpm redline. Like its immediate predecessor, the engine only needs a maintenance check after 100 hours of track time. Also noteworthy is its ability to race using synthetic fuels to lower CO2 emissions.

A 72kg six-speed dog-type gearbox transmits power via a single-mass flywheel and a three-plate sintered metal racing clutch. Gear changes are made via a paddle shift on the steering wheel, with a ‘minor inspection’ of the gearbox needed after 60 hours of racing – corresponding to roughly two years in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup.

Inside the cockpit, a revamp of the centrally positioned 10.3-inch colour monitor prioritises key data and information for the driver while racing.

Displayed alongside the engine revs are water and oil temperatures, the gear currently engaged, and error messages or information on important baseline settings (such as ‘Wet’ when racing in rain). The display and the computer monitors are aligned, providing the race engineers in the pits with the same information as the driver. This synchrony helps with post-session analysis.

‘With its improved performance and optimised cockpit, the new 911 GT3 is the best Cup car that Porsche has ever built,’ says Michael Dreiser, Director Sales Porsche Motorsport.

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SUPERCUP CALENDAR 2021 Eight races make up the provisional calendar of the 2021 Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. In its 29th season, the international one-make cup contested with the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup cars will again run exclusively in support of the FIA Formula One World Championship.

The season gets underway on Friday 23 May on the spectacular street circuit of Monte Carlo. New on the calendar is the Grand Prix course at the Circuit Zandvoort, which has been comprehensively modernised and redesigned. The Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup will be contested there in September as part of the Dutch F1 event.

The 911 GT3 Cup drivers will also tackle races in Le Castellet (France) for the first time, as well as Spielberg (Austria), Silverstone (England), Budapest (Hungary), and Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium), with Monza (Italy) hosting the finale.

For the first time, a brand-new Cup car will go beyond its debut in the international Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup (run as support to Formula 1).

At the same time, this most recent incarnation of the world’s bestselling racing vehicle will be entered by customer teams in national Carrera Cups in Germany, France, Asia and Benelux, as well as in North America for the first time.

Look out for the new 911 GT3 Cup car in Australia, when it makes its debut in the Porsche PAYCE Carrera Cup in 2022.

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TAYCAN’S ACCOLADES Accolades for the Taycan have streamed in from the very first review, and continue.

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ast year Taycan won two of the most prestigious awards presented to any car manufacturer when 86 international motoring journalists from around the world assessed more than 50 new cars for its World Car of the Year awards. Taycan topped the list as the World Luxury Car of the Year and World Performance Car of the Year.

‘This double win in the categories World Performance Car and World Luxury Car underlines what we wanted to achieve when we developed the Taycan,’ said Michael Steiner - Member of the Executive Board, Research and Development, Porsche AG. ‘We wanted to create a driver-focused, fully electric sports car that can take on any Performance Car.

‘At the same time, we focused on uncompromised everyday-usability and contemporary, digital luxury and comfort for four passengers. We are delighted that the WCOTY jury rewards these efforts.’

Previous to that Taycan was nominated as Car of the Year in Top Gear magazine, Game Changer of the Year (Top Gear magazine), The China Green Car of the Year (Chinese Car of the Year) and German Car of the Year, and it won the innovation prize from Connect magazine (Germany).

In Australia it quickly captured the hearts of Australian car enthusiasts who convincingly voted it their favoured vehicle when it won the Carsales People’s Choice award. It was praised as a step-change for Porsche and electric cars in general.

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ROLL IN “It is the first car to represent the fact that electric cars can be beautiful, fast, luxurious and interesting.”

“Industry leading technology from an extremely reputable brand. EVs need a variety of different levels and the higher end of the spectrum is quite limited. The Porsche offers what is considered the pinnacle of EVs, setting a benchmark for car manufacturers.”

“The Taycan will become the benchmark in technology, build quality and performance. Porsche has been around for a very long time and has no doubt done its homework prior to releasing the Taycan.”

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“[Taycan is] a great mix of performance and style… Good to see a performance car brand pushing the EV ideology.”

“Electric car done right. Makes me excited about what is coming in the future of the car industry.”

With such a fine array of wins from not only the motoring press worldwide, but also from car enthusiasts, it most definitely marks a new electric charge from Porsche.

Now that the Taycan has launched onto the Porsche Centre Brighton showroom, we’re forecasting a flurry of activity.

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What do cars and diamonds have in common?

Most cars, and most diamonds, are not genuinely ‘high performance’. However, both Porsche cars and Holloway Diamonds meet this exacting standard.

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arry Holloway, founder of Holloway Diamonds, is globally renowned for his contribution to improving the performance of every rough diamond. His inventions and tools are employed by diamond cutters and dealers the world over. He employs this unrivalled expertise in his two outlets, located in Brighton and Canterbury.

Yet the ambitions of Garry, one of Melbourne’s defining jewellers, extend far further, ‘I have a strange suggestion – I’m really two people,’ he ventures. ‘I’m a businessman, but also an inventor. As well as running two jewellery stores, I hold several patents for diamond cutting and cut quality appraisal.’

To unravel this mystery, let’s cycle back several decades to where it all began.

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Before entering the jewellery trade, Garry spent his after-school life pursuing adventure. ‘After graduating from Geology, I backpacked to London “overland” via India, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan, purchasing jewels along the way. The plan was to reach London and sell them!’

Things didn’t quite pan out that way. ‘There seemed to be an invisible forcefield at the front door of jewellery stores, which I could not enter to sell my gems! Instead, I bought the tools from London’s jewellery district, and taught myself to set them into jewellery.’

On his return to Australia, Garry established his first store in Canterbury (then called Precious Metals). Later, the opportunity arose to open in the heart of Brighton’s Church Street.

This is where the other facet of Garry’s personality comes in.

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‘For me, the science and research component of diamonds sits alongside the business component,’ Garry says. ‘While I’m sitting here now in Holloway Diamonds wearing cufflinks, white shirt, jacket, I spend most of my time on research projects improving the tools and techniques to get the most sparkle and brilliance out of diamonds.

The same year, Garry launched and was granted a US patent for the world’s first digital diamond cut grading system, Holloway Cut Adviser. ‘Ever since, I’ve been doing whatever I can to achieve perfection in diamonds globally,’ Garry says. ‘HCA, for example, is used to grade more than a billion dollars’ worth of diamonds every year.’

‘As a geologist who’s extensively studied the physics of light passing through diamonds, I’ve harnessed this knowledge to design tools like the Ideal-Scope, Holloway Cut Adviser (HCA), and ASET for cut-grading diamonds. Those tools are used around the world every day to cut, grade, buy and sell millions of dollars’ worth of diamonds.’

Garry’s technical mastery gives him a unique edge. ‘When Holloway Diamonds advertises in magazines, we justifiably title our rocks “HighPerformance Diamonds” due to the unmatched cut quality. Simply put, our diamonds look better than others.’

After completing his Gemology diploma at the GAA in 1984, Garry completed a thesis on diamond cutting in 1985 and became the diamond course’s National Convenor. That thesis led to the invention of the diamond-grading tool called the Ideal-Scope.

‘I kept the Ideal-Scope secret until 2000, when I decided I really had to do something to improve the way diamonds sparkle,’ Garry reveals. ‘We now run a global online business selling Ideal-Scopes and other tools worldwide upstairs from our Canterbury store.’

This comprehensive scientific background has given Garry an ideal footing to launch his other persona – an educator informing the public about diamond-cutting techniques … often quite irreverently.

‘As a long-time armchair physicist, I’ve developed an online personality called the “Cut Nut”,’ he says. ‘Wearing an Einstein wig and moustache, I’ve made a series of videos educating and explaining my craft to the public.’

So, why the ‘Cut Nut’?

‘That name was given to me by Martin Rappaport, collator of the Diamond Industry Price Guide, which is I guess the equivalent of the RedBook for

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cars,’ says Garry. ‘When I first met Martin 25 years ago, he challenged my diamond cut expertise. He gave me a few diamonds and asked me to tell him the crown and pavilion angles as well as the table size using only a loupe.

‘Thereafter Martin came to call me the “Cut Nut”. The YouTube videos of that name, which we started nine months ago when Covid shut down everything, demonstrate different technical aspects of the trade the way I hope Einstein and my childhood mentor Julius Sumner-Miller would simplify complex aspects of physics.’

Garry’s collaborations include other widespread technologies. ‘I’m listed on several inventions pertaining to displaying the position of inclusions (characteristics occurring inside the stone) so they can be avoided during the cutting of diamonds,’ he says. ‘The software is used by companies like GRAFF, the jeweller who cuts and sells the world’s largest diamonds.’

Garry’s long-standing commitment to precision in all its forms makes his enthusiasm for Porsche a natural fit. ‘The Macan, which I purchased last year, was my first Porsche,’ he says. ‘My wife, though, drove a Porsche 928 with a whopping V8, which was a lot of fun. That’s when I first glimpsed Porsche’s secret sauce!

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‘Porsche has always been impressively far ahead of the field in engineering and technology. For example, I believe the Porsche 928 had the first radio antenna that was built into the rear windscreen, as part of the heater element. Many Porsche innovations – including those that can’t be easily detected from outside – took the rest of the world decades to catch up to.’

Garry instinctively respects the company’s consistent dedication to excellence. ‘I haven’t used a tenth of the tech in my car,’ he says. ‘For me, the appeal is all about the marque’s combination of innovation and precision – the benefits, rather than the overt features. Life’s greatest innovations are often subtle and you don’t know exactly what you’re getting, but when you drive that rental the penny drops.’

Porsche’s philosophy, then, ties in closely with Garry’s own. ‘Porsche engineers design innovative components with high precision, and the entire driving experience flows from that commitment,’ he notes. It’s a perfect fit for a man who’s spent decades extracting every extra sparkle from rough diamonds that look like pebbles. garry@hollowaydiamonds.com.au

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TRAINING FOR A NEW CHAPTER The end goal is always to deliver a customer experience that is second to none.

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ith Taycan’s Australian arrival looming large on the horizon in 2020, Porsche Centre Brighton anticipated the beginning of a new chapter in its automotive history.

Similarly, Porsche Cars Australia (PCA) thought there was no better time to launch a new training centre to cater for this new class of motor vehicle. With the past and future equal considerations, the centre had to cater for conventional vehicles and the automotive future – Electric Vehicles (EVs).

‘We’ve known for some time that we wanted to advance our facilities for training. There’s been discussions for a number of years,’ says Heath Francis, Training Academy Manager, Porsche Cars Australia.

‘The catalyst for doing it right now was the arrival of the Taycan.

Training for an electric vehicle – especially with a product as complex and as technically advanced as a Porsche – brings different requirements than what we have traditionally delivered.

Not only in the technical space; the whole approach to the customer journey and expectation changes as well.

‘We knew we had to build a facility that was equipped for that challenge. We had to make sure we had the right space, the right tooling, and the right equipment, to make sure our staff were well-prepared for the Taycan and the future EV product we know is coming.

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‘We’re also very proud of the training we deliver at Porsche. I’d certainly like to think that the training we offer is best in class – we take a huge amount of pride in what we do, and we wanted a facility that reflected that.’

In late November 2020, the keys to the 837m2 Essendon Fields facility were handed over. Despite the tribulations caused by the Coronavirus, the purpose-built facility was ready on time.

‘What is fantastic about this facility is that it’s purpose built for Porsche,’ Heath says. ‘We’ve built it specifically to deliver our training programs, and we built flexibility into that design.’

From the very first step, the building invites you into a spacious brand lounge – a large multipurpose area where product training, skills and management training is conducted interactively.

At the back of the building sit two large divisible training rooms alongside two spacious technical workshops.

The paramount importance of flexibility in the building’s design is immediately apparent. Walls open from front to back; in fact, the building’s entire side can be opened out to create one huge space.

All the furniture is mobile, making the process of repurposing the space even easier. Every conceivable configuration has been made possible, from a traditional classroom to interactive learning spaces.

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Designed in conjunction with Porsche AG’s global architectural team, the very latest in equipment and technology were specified for the project. Instead of projectors, large portable flatscreens and electronic whiteboards enable trainers to distribute content directly to iPads or personal laptops. The workshops offer the flexibility of in-ground hoists that can be lowered below ground level to create an expansive event space when not in use for technical training.

‘We also have the latest Porsche technical and diagnostic equipment installed, including a brand-new alignment hoist to train camera and sensor alignment, as that technology is increasing in complexity every day,’ Heath says. ‘We have all the necessary charging infrastructure for the new EV product, while still making sure we are set up for our more classic vehicles.’

To deliver the training content itself, PCA employs three dedicated Training Specialists. Two focus on the delivery of technical content, while the other focuses on frontline skills and product training.

As Heath explains, outside trainers are rarely used. ‘With a brand like Porsche, that knowledge, that expertise, that passion for the brand … you can’t get that through outsourcing. We do have a couple of trusted experts that we bring in from time to time, but they have extensive Porsche experience and are very familiar with our brand.

‘It goes without saying that Porsche attracts very high-calibre talent, so the bar for our training and development activity is extremely high,’ he continues. ‘But that’s Porsche, right?

‘Our trainers are very experienced in their fields; there are also a number of internal certifications that they take part in.

‘We also draw on support from Porsche AG,’ Heath adds. ‘We head to Europe with every new car release to study every facet of the new product, and bring that knowledge back. Our team pieces together how that should translate into our region, then tailors it to meet the needs of our local market, and most importantly our customers.’

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Porsche’s training philosophy has always been to equip staff such as those from Porsche Centre Brighton with the necessary tools and skills to provide their customers with a peerless, all-encompassing experience. No Porsche Centre Brighton staff member is excluded. Everyone, from the front desk staff to the Service Concierge to the Service Technicians, forms an integral part of this inclusive philosophy.

‘The reason that our Training Academy exists is really to ensure that our customer experience is as individual and personalised as the cars we build,’ Mr Francis notes. ‘We talk a lot about passion – the passion that our customers already have for our brand, and ensuring we deliver that same passion at every single customer touchpoint.’

The Australian market, which Porsche Centre Brighton serves, is as distinctive and individual as its loyal customers. For Porsche Centre Brighton, it has never been and will never be a ‘one size fits all’ approach.

Heath expands on the importance of this tailored philosophy of service.

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‘This is where all the Porsche Centre Brighton dealer staff will be trained – from our Welcome to Porsche induction program for new staff, through product training, skills, management, technical and all our various certification programs.’

Training programs have already been completed at the new facility, with Porsche Centre Brighton technicians receiving the first of many training sessions on the new Taycan. Frontline Porsche Centre Brighton staff have also started their training with an initial two-day course to familiarise themselves with the Taycan, becoming conversant with its many features in a hands-on manner while building on the virtual classroom training they completed during the recent COVID lockdowns.

While Porsche has multiple training centres worldwide, the new Essendon Fields site is recognised as a leading-edge facility even by Porsche standards. A great deal of time was spent on the new facility’s design, function and equipment, with the goal of enriching every Porsche customer’s experience well into the future.

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Unquestionably perfect pre-owned Porsches Every Porsche customer is a privilege to serve – a Porsche pre-owned car customer is equally important as a new car customer.

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n most, but not all car sales areas, new car customers get the royal treatment while pre-owned car customers just get … a car. At Porsche Centre Brighton, the red carpet is laid out for new and pre-owned customers alike.

For pre-owned Porsche customers, the royal treatment begins with picking the right car to for them. It’s not just any Porsche that finds its way under Porsche Centre Brighton’s expansive pre-owned car roofed area – a rarity in itself, when many dealerships keep their pre-owned cars out in the open instead of taking the trouble to protect them.

To source the optimal pre-owned Porsches, Pre-Owned Sales Manager Goran Lukic initially considers previous Porsche Centre Brighton customers.

‘We focus on our own customers, clients and database, because we know these cars. These are cars we have originally sold, delivered, serviced and maintained, so we appreciate their quality,’ Goran explains.

Not surprisingly, many Porsche Centre Brighton customers hold on to their Porsches, making pre-owned examples hard to come by. Finding a sound, well-serviced pre-owned Porsche requires a solid understanding of the pre-owned car marketplace, including the knowledge of exactly where to look and who to ask.

Locating the right car to place in the Porsche Centre Brighton pre-owned car area is just the first of many steps, with the destination 111 ticks away. Those ‘111 ticks’ refer to the Porsche 111-point approved program check which every Porsche Centre Brighton pre-owned Porsche must pass before it can be offered to a customer For example, a pre-owned Porsche sold by Porsche Centre Brighton must exceed the standards of a roadworthy checklist by three times. In other words, if the brake disc is to be a minimum thickness for a roadworthy inspection, Porsche demands three times that thickness for a pass.

Any non-genuine Porsche parts fitted must be replaced with genuine ones. In addition, the service history must be with Porsche and if a service has been skipped or conducted by somebody else, that service must be redone.

Any minor bodywork repairs, such as scratches, must have been repaired by a Porsche authorised collision centre. This refers to minor scratches, not accident damage – which results in an automatic failure.

‘All the cars have an engine control unit (ECU) which records the engine telemetry, so we find in the computer history how the car has been treated during its lifecycle,’ says Goran. ‘If we find that, for instance, at some stage there was an engine over rev, technically that’s a fail. You can’t warranty it. It’s outside the parameters of the manufacturer.’

It’s all about reputation.

‘Getting the right cars is the hardest part. Many fail the 111point Porsche Approved Program check,’ Goran confirms.

‘Our Porsche Approved Program works very differently to other manufacturers. We tell customers to always look for the Porsche Approved Program cars, because they meet factory standards with all genuine parts and service history and come with a one-year warranty that can be extended for 15 years. We are the only manufacturer who can back up our product with a 15-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, g including on a racetrack.’

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Simply inspecting every Porsche that may be suited to Porsche Centre Brighton’s pre-owned car customers takes three days in the service area. As a precursor to the 111-point check, an initial 20-minute visual inspection is conducted to ensure the car is worth examining further.

After passing the 111-point inspection, the process continues. A written report is sent to Goran, providing him with all required details about the Porsche being reviewed. This includes any work that must be done to bring it up to Porsche’s ultra-stringent pre-owned car standards.

When the car is finally ready to be offered to a customer, Goran takes the car overnight and drives it to make sure it’s perfect. This equips him with a feel for that particular model, enabling him to effortlessly describe its features to a customer.

Customers generally know what type of Porsche they’re seeking to meet their needs – a family car like the Cayenne or Macan, a four-door saloon like the Panamera, or something personal and sporty like a 911. However, Porsche offers so many variants and options that it takes a well-versed person like Goran to explain the differences between each model and even more importantly, how these options may suit the customer.

‘I listen,’ Goran explains. ‘There is a saying that people don’t buy a Porsche because they need a car; they buy one because they want a Porsche.

‘I listen to what they are after in a car. Do they want a family car, a sports car, or a race car? What is it they need? Product knowledge is one of the most important things I can offer them.’

‘I’m continually being trained; that’s part of the Porsche brand,’ Goran adds. ’I have a passion, so I keep learning all the time. I love to see what’s coming and learn how things work.

‘I transfer my passion to my customers, getting them involved by explaining the things the car can do. I spend as long with a customer as long as they need me – there is no limit.’

Porsche introduced the Porsche Certification program a few years ago. After seven years working for Porsche, every salesperson is evaluated to ascertain if his or her customer reports are rated above the 90% mark. If so, they are enlisted into the Porsche Certification Program and attend intensive training.

After that training, they become worldwide-certified Porsche salespeople. If, like Goran, you maintain that quality level after a further two years, you become a Brand Ambassador. A Brand Ambassador is more than a title, it’s a way of life which must be carefully maintained and cultivated over time. An integral part of being a Brand Ambassador is the long-term relationship formed with every customer.

‘Once the customer takes delivery is where the relationship starts, not stops,’ Goran explains. ‘We provide concierge service to the customer for the life of the car.’

The delivery of a pre-owned Porsche is exactly the same as when you buy a new car from Porsche Centre Brighton including the delivery ceremonies and processes that ensure each customer knows they are valued and cared for.

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‘I love any type of engineering, especially mechanical but also all engineering – aeroplanes, rockets, building bridges.

I love all types of engineering. But beyond the cars, it’s the technology. And that’s what the Porsche brand is all about.’

Goran’s current role as Pre-Owned Manager for Porsche Centre Brighton was not on the horizon for a young man growing up in what was then Yugoslavia.

However, a series of ethnic conflicts, insurgencies, and finally war shifted his focus overseas.

After landing in Australia over two decades ago, Goran started again. As with many migrants, he faced the task of learning a new language, understanding different ways of doing business, and most importantly, finding his first job.

Goran Lukic

It’s always about the engineering

‘I came to Australia in 1988 and pretty much started from the ground up; all the way from car detailing to motor shows, presentations, VIP events, and then into sales. The background for the past 20 years has been the automotive industry, recalls Goran.

Goran’s detailing was hardly your typical car washing and vacuuming – he was employed by Rolls Royce and Bentley.

‘I was in sales in Europe,’ he recalls. ‘When I came to Australia, I had to learn the language, so I started as a car detailer. Someone recognised my skills and asked if I wanted to work on the car shows on the stand with Bentley, then I started in sales. It was a natural progression to get back to sales,’ Goran says.

When the Rolls Royce and Bentley brands separated in 2000, Goran was asked to work with Lance Dixon, holder of the Ferrari and Maserati franchises. This was followed by a stint with Lamborghini. After more than 15 years working in various roles involving high-end luxury cars, he turned his attention to the other end of the market to broaden his understanding of the car sales spectrum.

Goran spent roughly seven years with Ford in Brighton as the company’s Car Sales Manager, building up not only a peerless reputation and a detailed knowledge base but also a thorough understanding of the local scene.

‘I went to the Ford dealership to get more experience in volume sales,’ Goran explains.

Pre-Owned Manager Porsche Centre Brighton

Yet the pull of working with refined engineering was strong. When Porsche Centre Brighton opened, Goran was drawn to the marque.

Having commenced there 11 years ago, he has no intention of making any move away from the brand he loves.

‘We didn’t have used cars when I started, we started to grow into them later,’ he says. ‘When I started, we had just 10 new cars on the showroom floor and no used cars at all. It was a small franchise. Porsche approached me to come and work here; there was only two of us in sales then.’

Today Porsche Centre Brighton employs four Senior Managers (of which Goran is one), five Sales Executives, and more than 13 other front office staff covering the whole gamut from finance to marketing - and that doesn’t even include the workshop and detailing team.

As the company grew, Goran’s understanding of, passion for and commitment to the brand quickly became recognised as an extremely valuable asset for Porsche Centre Brighton.

‘Robert (Gattereder), the current CEO, said to me: ‘You have experience, knowledge, passion for Porsche, so now it’s not enough sitting in the back seat – you’re going to be running the used car department.’ That’s when we started a dedicated used car department just for the Porsche Approved Program,’ Goran remembers. ‘I’ve been the Pre-Owned Manager for the past three years and have been growing that part of the business ever since.’

As a sign of Goran’s talent and leadership in this area, last year he was honoured by Porsche and invited to become a Porsche Brand Ambassador.

‘They flew me to Germany where they took me to the factories; it was fascinating,’ Goran recalls. ‘As kids, we all grew up with Porsche posters on the walls dreaming about those cars.’

When Goran was asked what his favourite Porsche was, he answered in typical Goran fashion. ‘The best Porsche is always the next one – it’s the engineering that fascinates me. I’m always excited about a new model.’

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SPECTACULAR ROAD TRIPS

The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s bestknown drives. Here we have highlights you may not have discovered – four more spectacular road trips proving our State is well worth exploring.

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BEYOND THE 12 APOSTLES, THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD DRIVE

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he Great Ocean Road, which celebrated its centenary last year, is one of world’s most famous drives for a reason. The 243km road was built by ex-servicemen following their return from World War 1, forming the world’s largest war memorial. It takes in a region rich in diversity with contrasting natural beauty, with hinterland waterfall walks traversing lush forests and lively salt-washed villages serving tantalising gourmet fare.

Head inland after Geelong to allow yourself plenty of time to savour Dan Hunter’s Brae, awarded Regional Restaurant of the Year 2020 in the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards.

Set on a hillside in Birregurra, Victoria, Brae is a contemporary restaurant set on a working organic farm – a place to be immersed in nature and savour the land’s bounty.

An ever-changing set menu incorporates produce from Brae Farm, coupled with its surrounding land and local, ethical producers to showcase a unique Australian cuisine built around an immense respect for nature and seasonality. After your meal, there’s the option to spend the night in one of six spacious, eco-friendly guest suites reflecting Brae’s gorgeous natural surrounds.

Visitors can break up one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives by embracing the lush greenery and getting up close and personal with the region’s thriving flora, fauna, and habitat on one of many wildlife walks. Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve offers visitors a naturally diverse experience of the Australian bush, home to some of the country’s iconic native birds and animals including emus, koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas.

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Take one of five self-guided walks and learn about the area’s Aboriginal Heritage at the Worn Gundidj Visitor Centre.

After venturing to the Twelve Apostles, top off the day with dinner in nearby Port Fairy. Dine in the historic dining room at the Merrijig Inn (Victoria’s oldest), where you can book an overnight stay in country-style comfort. Or make the short journey back to Warrnambool for seafood chowder and a drink or two with stunning bay views at Simon’s Waterfront, staying overlooking the beach in coastal luxury at the Lady Bay Resort.

Extend this road trip by taking an exclusive guided tour through south-west Victoria’s Budj Bim National Heritage Landscape.

Budj Bim Tours operate out of Heywood, Victoria, with itineraries ranging from two hours to a fullday journey.

You will learn about the Gunditjmara people’s history and culture from a Gunditjmara guide.

During your tour, you will see stone house sites, reconstructed stone houses and stone aquaculture systems over 6,000 years old.

Learn about native food plants, as well as how the Gunditjmara people engineered the landscape to ensure they could live a settled rather than nomadic lifestyle.

Even a journey as spectacular as this one must come to an end, so take the inland route back along the Princes Highway and discover welcoming inland villages. (You’ll just have to return at another time to get to know them g better.)

Road trippers can combine the spectacular scenery of the rugged Grampians mountain range with western Victoria’s rich pastoral heritage, beautiful nature reserves and sublime food and wine experiences on this inspiring touring route.

Amid some of Australia’s most aweinspiring wilderness, from gentle walks to multi-day adventures, visitors can test their stamina with a hike through the Grand Canyon up to The Pinnacle.

For something a bit less strenuous, wander out to spectacular Mackenzie Falls. The Balconies, located just 30 minutes from Reed Lookout, is a mustvisit for sweeping views of the region.

For an unforgettable hiking experience, the first stage of the Grampians Peaks Trail has opened with a three-day, twonight trek through some of the park’s most popular scenery. Rugged mountain peaks, rocky gullies and breathtaking panoramic views dominate this route.

Make the most of what the region has to offer and book at least a few nights’ stay.

Experience ‘glamping’ under the endless stars at Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park or stay at Aquila Eco Lodges. Perfect for couples, this secluded destination is completely surrounded by dense bushland and wildlife.

THE GRAMPIANS

Begin the trip in picturesque Dunkeld and revel in the stunning views of the Grampians’ Piccaninny, Mount Sturgeon and Mount Abrupt. Spend the night at Royal Mail Hotel and indulge the senses with dinner at its two-hatted restaurant, Wickens, before journeying the following day to Halls Gap to discover the ancient history of the area traditionally known as Gariwerd. Delve into the dreamtime stories of the local indigenous people and see enthralling displays of art and artefacts at the architecturally fascinating Brambuk, the National Park and Cultural Centre. Join a tour with Aboriginal guides to visit rock art sites and learn about local Aboriginal culture, including the land’s spiritual significance.

As visitors explore the Grampians region, there is plenty to discover. The shiraz at Mount Langi Ghiran is iconic, as are the drops of Halls Gap Estate and Pomonal Estate. No visit to the region is complete without swiping your finger along the dusty barrels in the hand-dug 1860s cellars at Seppelt Great Western, then step back in time underground with a tour of the heritage-listed – and longest – cellar in the Southern Hemisphere.

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THE GREAT ALPINE ROAD – HIGH COUNTRY Head to the High Country, where stunning mountains, valleys, rivers, and lakes offer perfect locales for year-round adventure and relaxation. Recharge at renowned restaurants and wineries, discover the vibrant craft brewery scene, or fill your basket at provedores and farm gates brimming with local delights.

Visit boutique wineries before stocking up on stunning produce and taste local ingredients in village cafes and restaurants. Visitors can get their caffeine fix at the family-owned small-batch coffee roaster and café, Sixpence Coffee. Go for coffee in the morning and stay for an afternoon drink, when the shared space becomes Reed & Co Distillery. Those with a sense of adventure can take their lunch to the extreme with Bright Adventure Company’s Cliff Picnics, a private dining experience suspended 300 metres above the valley floor.

Victoria’s High Country is one of Australia’s premier cycling destinations. Cyclists can go it alone or book in for one of the region’s newest cycling tours. The new self-guided twilight tour, Sunsets & Sombreros, kicks off at Bright Electric Bikes where visitors can collect their eBike before cycling to Porepunkah for a Mexican Meal at the Rail Trail Cafe, trading a mini-sombrero for a life-size one on arrival.

The neighbouring village of Beechworth possesses an acclaimed food and wine scene set amid stunning gold rush architecture.

A stop at Feathertop Winery on the drive from Bright to Beechworth is a must for visitors to pick up a Sparkling Shiraz or a bite to eat on the stunning lawn terrace. Stroll through this picturesque township, filled with lush green trees, boutiques and renowned restaurants and cafes. Stop at the famous Beechworth Honey, combining retail with a fascinating honeybee encounter and a tempting honey-tasting station with more than 30 Australian varieties to enjoy. Popping in to the iconic Bridge Road Brewers or Billson’s Brewery is also a must, with both offering unique craft beers in refurbished historic buildings. For the ultimate indulgent weekend, visitors should book to stay onsite in a luxury suite located in the private courtyard garden at the back of the twohatted Provenance, or at boutique wellness accommodation The Spa Beechworth.

Live la dolce vita with fine food, wine, and accommodation, where genuine Italian hospitality lies at the heart of the King Valley experience. Prosecco Road is one of Australia’s oldest gourmet regions, famous for its world-class Prosecco. This exciting food and wine trail will see visitors enjoy intimate tastings with the makers. Dal Zotto were the region’s pioneers of Prosecco when they planted the first Prosecco vines in 1999. It didn’t take long for the variety to sparkle, with Brown Brothers, Chrismont, Pizzini and Sam Miranda following suit.

Stay a few nights among the vines at Lancemore Milawa or close to nature at Valley View Glamping. Book in a pasta-cooking class with Katrina Pizzini, who runs a school at Pizzini, or Politini for cannoli or salami-making classes. Alternatively, grab a map, hop on a bike, and pedal between small producers and wineries, filling g basket with cheeses, nuts, honey, wine and olives.

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SOUTH GIPPSLAND COASTAL DRIVE

The South Gippsland coastal drive provides the opportunity to discover the lush hills of the hinterland through to dreamy coastline, offering gourmet eats and incredible wine along the way.

En route from Melbourne, visitors should make their way towards the small village of Loch. Set among the verdant hills of the Strzelecki Ranges, the picture-perfect town resembles something out of a fairy-tale. The 20th century buildings make for a stunning streetscape as you wander the cafes and boutique stores in this disarmingly charming town.

Meeniyan has seen foodies, cafe owners and restaurateurs flock to the area over the past few years, marking the town a worthwhile base for exploring the South Gippsland region.

Check into the stunning property known as Ross Farm, overlooking two acres of open space with uninterrupted views across the Tarwin Valley.

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CEVA GOLD CLASS SERVICE FOR CAR TRANSPORT If you’re looking for local or interstate car transport, CEVA Car Carrying offers a range of vehicle relocation solutions to suit your vehicle transportation needs.

CEVA provides safe and effective interstate transport for customers across Australia. With an extensive fleet of modern transporters and specialised equipment suited to the movement of all vehicles, the company can provide a tailored solution to suit any requirement.

Originally a small dairy farm, the property has been sensitively transformed into beautifully designed modern accommodation, perfect for a break in South Gippsland.

Wilsons Promontory National Park, known as ‘The Prom’, is one of Victoria’s best-loved national parks and the State’s largest coastal wilderness area. Head to Tidal River for the award-winning Pennicott Wilderness Journeys’ yellow amphibious boat ecotour. Witness iconic South Point, the southernmost tip of mainland Australia, and discover a rugged and raw coast like no other.

For prestige vehicles, the CEVA Premium Enclosed service offers fully enclosed car transport services providing the ultimate protection and security for your valuable vehicle. CEVA’s service team are true automobile enthusiasts as well as expert car transporters.

CEVA understands cars, and the people who own them. That’s how they deliver the service you want. Anything less is unacceptable.

CEVA also transports bikes, boats and caravans interstate, so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any vehicle transport requirements.

Marvel at the prehistoric boulders of Mount Oberon situated behind the white quartz sands of Norman Beach before uncovering the iconic granite monolith that is Skull Rock. Sculpted by waves and surrounded by crystal blue waters, Skull Rock’s eerie facade becomes even more mysterious as more skull shapes reveal themselves the closer you get.

Visitors can enjoy water-based activities year-round with recreational boating, fishing, sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving and windsurfing. Take the time to enjoy walks and see a variety of wildlife including kangaroos, wombats and emus set against the backdrop of stunning beaches. A longstanding favourite is the 6.9km Squeaky Beach Track. Starting at the Tidal River footbridge, the walk offers spectacular coastal views as it climbs up and over the headland separating Norman and Leonard Bays before descending to Squeaky Beach – don’t forget to take your shoes off and hear the squeak as you walk across the pristine sand.

Be ready for delicious discoveries from the cafes and restaurants across the region that use fresh local food and visit boutique wineries and breweries who create their magic from the crystalclear water of nearby mountain streams.

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You can get a quote and make a booking online at cevacarcarrying.com.au using the ‘Quote and Book’ page.

You can also call Customer Care Centre on 13 CARS (13 22 77) and one of the friendly staff will be happy to provide a quote and answer any questions you may have.

Esport Action Attracts Au AUSSIE TAYLOR SMITH WINS ESPORTS 2020 FORZA CUP The first regional Esports tournament, presented by Porsche Asia Pacific and Porsche Australia in partnership with Forza Motorsport 7, saw nearly 400 virtual drivers from 14 countries putting their racing skills to the test.

Three iconic Porsche race cars, the 918 Spyder, 919 Hybrid, and 911 GT3 RS, tackled three of the world’s most challenging tracks – Bathurst, the Nürburgring, and Le Mans.

Australian Taylor Smith, AKA LagALot IG, joined racers from Brunei, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand in the ultimate battle for glory in a Cayman GT4 Clubsport at the Pacific Forza Cup Grand Finals, broadcasted live from Singapore on Saturday 31 October 2020.

‘The Porsche Asia Pacific Forza Cup has been relentlessly action-packed right from the start, and the two races from the Grand Finals were even more intense than I’d imagined,’ Taylor says.

‘Not only is it an incredible honour to be the first titleholder of the tournament, it’s also particularly meaningful as it’s my very first win as well. I can’t wait to test myself in an actual Porsche cockpit.’

After conquering five virtual tracks in 2020, Taylor also won the coveted opportunity to race on Germany’s iconic Hockenheimring behind the wheel of a real Porsche.

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AUSSIES LEAD IN 2021 SUPERCUP On the digital version of Brazil’s Autódromo José Carlos Pace, Australia’s Joshua Rogers from the VRS Coanda Simsport team dominated the sprint race over 10 laps at the wheel of his virtual Porsche 911 GT3 Cup in the Porsche TAG Heuer Esports Supercup (PESC).

Joshua showed his top form in qualifying and was rewarded with the best time and pole position for the first race of the season. Fellow Australian Dayne Warren turned in the second-fastest lap, putting the front grid row firmly in Australian hands.

Joshua won the sprint to the first corner, settled in at the front of the pack, and proceeded to control the race. Dayne Warren stayed within striking distance, making several attempts to overtake the 2019 PESC champion. When the virtual flag fell, Joshua calmly brought home a convincing lights-to-flag victory with Dayne close behind.

Due to a reverse grid line-up in the main race, as stipulated by the regulations, Joshua was forced to launch a furious pursuit from eighth place. The Australian gained several positions early on and was running in fourth after four laps.

The fierce duel between Joshua and Spaniard Alejandro Sánchez ended in a collision three laps later, with both drivers falling hopelessly behind.

Round Two was held virtually on Saturday 16 January in Barcelona, Spain.

Joshua once again underlined his qualifying talent as he posted pole position for an impressive 18th time.

ussie Talent

Joshua kept his cool and snatched the lead at the start of the sprint race, followed by Mitchell DeJong (USA, Virtual Racing School), Dayne Warren (Australia, DirectForce Pro), and Charlie Collins (Great Britain, Virtual Racing School). This quartet led the field over the next nine laps, with the four separated for the most part by mere fractions of a second.

The order remained unchanged. As in Brazil, Joshua clinched the first race of the day at Barcelona.

Joshua had a fight on his hands with the second race another reverse grid, but he broke through the pack to finish second. Battling defending champion Sebastian Job (GB/Red Bull Racing Esports) for the top tier spot, Joshua was ultimately forced to accept second after a spirited charge through the field.

‘Turn 1 after the start in the main race was a little hairy,’ he recounts.

‘I had to choose my line carefully – otherwise, you end up upside down on the track instead of earning critical points. I was particularly careful with my tyres and I’m very pleased with my performance and the result.

The fight with Charlie Collins and Dayne Warren was great fun.’

During a brilliant race at Italy’s virtual Imola track, Joshua moved into the lead of the Porsche TAG Heuer Esports Supercup (PESC) after winning the main race. He pulled out all stops during the race, driving door-todoor in the final laps with Alejandro Sanchez before sealing the win.

‘In the beginning, I tried to catch the leading group,’ Joshua said. ‘I probably should’ve been more careful with my tyres because, in the final laps, the rear tyres deteriorated noticeably. All in all, it was a great race and I’m thrilled with the result. I knew this race would be critical for the championship – especially when Sebastian Job got caught up in a collision at the start. On a circuit like Imola, it’s not actually advantageous to lead the field because your rivals can stick to you in your slipstream.’

In the sprint race on the virtual version of the Italian Grand Prix circuit, the 2019 PESC champion was narrowly beaten to the flag by arch-rival Sebastian Job. Points’ standings after 3 of 10 championship rounds 1. Joshua Rogers (AUS/Virtual Racing School), 198 points 2. Mitchell deJong (USA/Virtual Racing School), 161 points 3. Dayne Warren (AUS/DirectForce Pro), 145 points Fans can watch the events live on Porsche’s YouTube and Twitch channels. The races are also streamed on these two video platforms via iRacing.

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Taking Portsea As they say, there’s never more than six degrees of separation. That’s vividly illustrated by the connection between Porsche Centre Brighton and the Portsea Surf Life Saving Club, especially now that one of Porsche Centre Brighton’s own staff members has won two races at the recent Portsea Swim Classic.

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orsche Centre Brighton has been sponsoring the Portsea Surf Life Saving Club for many years, but this is the first time one of Porsche Centre Brighton’s staff has taken the plunge … and come out on top.

First held in 1987, the Portsea Swim Classic is one of Victoria’s most popular open water swimming events with 1800 competitors. (More would attend, but the club puts a cap on the event for the sake of competitors’ safety.

This year’s youngest competitor was just seven; the oldest was 87-year-old swimmer Patrick Galvin, who received a round of applause from the crowd after completing his 1.5-kilometre swim.

Even this year with a looming COVID-19 presence, entries for the events filled fast.

One of those entrants was Rhys Mainstone, Service Advisor at Porsche Centre Brighton.

It’s not his work there that has made Rhys a household name in swim circles – it’s his equally outstanding achievements in the water.

‘I made the Australian national swim team in 2009 and raced all around the world doing marathon swimming, which was events from 5km to 25km,’ says Rhys.

‘My speciality was the 10km distance.

I won a World Championship Silver in the 5km teams event in Shanghai in 2011, four National 10km titles, and five World Cup 10km events and in 2015, I came third in the World Championship Series for World Cup swimming.’

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the plunge in the a Swim Classic Rhys retired from professional swimming after 10 years on the Australian national swim team, but understandably found it impossible to stay out of the water.

This year, Rhys wrested the title from Sam and won the 2.5km Portsea Gold event outright as well as the 1.5km Portsea Classic for his age group (30–39).

‘I’d always heard such great things about the Portsea Swim Classic event, I had to do it,’ Rhys confirms. ‘One of my good friends is Sam Sheppard – he’s won the event a few times and he’s always said I should come over and do the event.

Not one to lie low, Rhys has already entered the Wreck to Reef event on 13 February 2021 and is looking to enter the Williamstown Open Water event in the 5km section.

‘I moved over from WA in February 2020, so I’d heard about the event for many years but was never able to swim it. This year was my first event.’

Sam Sheppard, also a very well-known Australian swimmer, won the Portsea Gold event in 2016, 2017, 2019, and 2020.

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Perhaps she will join the Portsea Nippers program when she’s old enough, an extremely popular event run by the Portsea SLSC. The program is for those from under seven up to 13 years of age. The program has been fully booked each year (including 2021), with a cap of 600 and an eager waitlist of kids hoping to get in.

Rhys made the move with his young family from Perth in WA where he was Warranty Manager at Porsche Perth after being approached by Porsche Centre Brighton to work in Melbourne.

The program started on Sunday 27 December 2020 and finished on Friday 8 January 2021 after participants completed seven sessions.

Most sessions ran for two hours, while the under sevens complete an age-appropriate 90-minute program.

According to Rhys, his young daughter, three-year-old Isla, seems to really like the water and he hopes that she may follow in her father’s footsteps.

Email nippers@portseasurf.com.au for more about the Nippers program, or email contact@portseasurf.com.au for further information about Portsea SLSC.

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Exciting Times for Beau Porsche Centre Brighton is focused on our customers’ diverse communities.

Encouragingly, many of our clients and staff participate in community sport to keep fit while staying connected as a local family.

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ne currently booming community sport is soccer (or football, for those who play the game!). With the FIFA Women’s World Cup to be hosted in Australia in 2023, our local club, Beaumaris, has recently had some great news – a new sports pavilion will be constructed to meet its growing membership needs.

Understandably, the news has been met with widespread elation and encouragement from the wider Beaumaris community.

‘We’d lobbied Council for 11 years,’ explains VP and Cayman GTS driver David Richards. ‘Finally, Council confirmed that the build commences shortly, to be completed by year’s end.

‘This is wonderful news for our 240+ women and girls who have been so patient in extending facilities well beyond their useful life,’ he continues. ‘Of course, all 650+ players, their parents and families will get to enjoy the new pavilion, which will include social meeting spaces, decent food and beverage facilities, and four large unisex changing rooms.

‘We’re also working with local conservation groups to ensure we achieve a reinvigorated landscape that will ensure the beauty of the Reserve is preserved for all.’

Others involved in the club share this enthusiasm. ‘Our youngest registered member is five, and our oldest is 64 – I know who moves the quickest!’ says registrar Maxine Thomson. ‘Our membership for the 2021 season closed in February, so with the existing superb FIFA Grade 1 facilities leased from the MCC Academy at Beaumaris College and the news about the pavilion, we’ve had a surge of new members.

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855 Nepean Highway Brighton VIC 3186 P: 03 9536 1911 W: www.porschebrighton.com.au TURBO Magazine is published by Jill Johnson Media Contributors Mandy PARRY-JONES Tim ROBERTS Jill JOHNSON Design Brigid FRASER Photography

umaris Soccer Club ‘It’s very possible that our facilities could be used by one of the competing nations in the World Cup, so we’re working with the ‘powers that be’ to make that a reality.’

Richards. ‘It’s heart-warming to see the men and women walk on to the field holding the hands of seven-year-olds dressed in their kits who literally look up to their role models.

‘Even more pleasingly, the mums of Beaumaris formed a new team three years ago – the ‘Beauy Bubbles’ (something to do with their choice of refreshment),’ says Sponsorships Director Marc Gibson. ‘We now have three women’s teams to supplement the five dedicated girls’ teams we had in 2020.

‘Beauy is a family club through and through. We aspire to excellence in the way we play, our on and off-field conduct, and the facilities and friendship we can offer to families. It is quite remarkable that we have players travelling from Middle Park and Mornington to play at the club, so genuinely being part of a community has never been more meaningful,’ David says.

‘And with travel plans on hold for a while yet, and missing out on playing last year, there is a real hunger to get the blue and yellow shirts on again and enjoy the camaraderie and team spirit of being together.

‘We have really appreciated the support of all our local sponsors in what has been a tough year, when many expenses continued but all subscriptions were refunded.

Local business is at the heart of our community, as is the club, and missing out has really emphasised how we enjoy playing the beautiful game.’

Beauy’s senior women’s and men’s teams are now flying high, playing Victoria’s highest standard of community football. ‘They offer excellent pathways for our girls and boys to achieve their dreams and are very much connected to all we do,’ says David

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Even with these positive recent developments, the work continues. ‘We have much still to do,’ notes David. ‘Investing in the development of our coaches and players is the key to our success, so we’re going to make a six-figure contribution to the new pavilion’s fit-out.’

The club’s proactive approach to participation and success is greatly appreciated by its enthusiastic local members. ‘It only makes the club a better place to be,’ says Maxine. ‘That must be why I live here from February to September!’

If you’re interested in putting on your boots or finding out more about the club, visit www.beaumarissc.com.au.

Lisa SAAD Courtesy of Porsche AG Spectacular Road Trips - Visit Victoria Artra SARTRACOM Photographer Robert BLACKBURN Marcus THOMSON Photography Roberto SEBA

Taycan Launch - Melbourne Museum Lighting Designer - Craig BOYES Event Designer - Veasna LOR Photographer - Lisa SAAD

Advertising Enquiries Jill JOHNSON P: 0409 217 624 E: jj@jilljohnsonmedia.com.au

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