National Collision Repairer December 2022

DECEMBER 2022 – JANUARY 2023

THE

www.nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

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CollisionRepairer News, views & information for the Collision Industry Professional ACKNOWLEDGED BY THE INDUSTRY AS THE LEADING MAGAZINE

Meet Alexandra Holston, our latest Entrepreneurial Woman Read about AkzoNobel’s Car Refinishes journey in Australia Capricorn rounds out the year with the Melbourne Gala Event

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E D I T O R I A L

with Joe McFadries

2022 That was the year that was What a year it was as we all got back to doing what we do best, and the industry got back to normal – well, sort of. As this year draws to a close, we thought we would reflect on some of the great initiatives of 2022 by way of celebrating a great year.

2022 kicked off with several competitions that once again whet our appetites. Ford Trade Club members had the opportunity to win an all-new 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak, Subaru trade customers had the chance to win an all-new Subaru BRZ, and Saint Gobain ran the Norton Big Outback Adventure competition.

We also saw the return of a whole raft of events, by far the biggest of which was the Collision Repair Expo in Melbourne, which saw the industry come together for the first time in three years. In addition, Capricorn, proudly supported by the National Collision Repairer, brought Mike Anderson back to our shores with Futures Collide II in Perth and on the Gold Coast.

There was also a plethora of awards during the year, beginning with the Kangan Institute’s Industry Excellence Awards; our own Lifetime Achievement Awards returned with a formal presentation dinner in Melbourne; we introduced another five Future Leaders of the Industry; and, of course, Capricorn’s Rising Stars, which had a record number of nominations.

And, as we go to print, we attended

the 2022 Fix Auto conference in Port Douglas, which was a real celebration of success where you could really feel the camaraderie throughout the FixAuto Network.

Also back in business were the great car events, beginning with Summernats in Canberra, All Ford Day in Geelong, MotorEx in Melbourne, Rockynats in Rockhampton, Red CentreNATS in Alice Springs, and Motorclassica in Melbourne. In this issue, we report on the SEMA Show from Las Vegas, which, according to some in the industry, was one of the best shows ever.

Also, in the final issue, we bring you some great features to round out the year, with a celebration of Genuine Parts from BMW, Hyundai and Ford, “Reflections” from AkzoNobel’s journey in Australia, Capricorn’s trade show and Gala Event from Melbourne, THE

FixAuto’s “magnificent seven” franchisees, and we meet entrepreneurial woman Alexandra Holston from AMA Group.

So, as we come to the end of what certainly was a more normal year, Josephine and I, together with our team of correspondents and consultants, once again thank you all for your support in 2022. We wish everyone a safe and happy festive season and look forward to bringing you all the “news, views and information” in 2023.

Stay safe and well, and as always, happy to chat.

The National Collision Repairer magazine – Making a difference in our industry

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CollisionRepairer Latest News Local News

Special Reports 4

The latest industry news from around the country as we close out the year.

Global News

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12

Reflections

18

Hear from three stalwarts of Akzo Nobel as they reflect on the origins of the car refinish business in Australia.

44

Automechanika Shanghai Summernats 35 Motorvation.

Product Showcase

Competition Update

Regular Features

Ford Australia announces the winner of the all-new 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak.

Keep up to date with the latest industry news and information from around the world.

I-CAR Update and Training and Events

2022

The Magnificent Seven

Entrepreneurial Women

OEM Genuine Parts

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Future Leaders

Capricorn Gala Event 32 See how the Capricorn 2022 trade show and gala event roadshow concluded in Melbourne last month.

Custom Corner

EDITOR: Joe McFadries 0458 588 333 joe@nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES ENQUIRIES: Joe McFadries 0458 588 333 joe@nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

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DIGITAL EDITOR: Josephine McFadries 0406 421 902 josephine@nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

Josephine McFadries 0406 421 902 josephine@nationalcollisionrepairer.com.au

ART CONSULTANT: Chris Stone (Stone Dezine) 0407 939 668 chris@stonie.com.au

PUBLISHED BY: JMF Solutions Pty Ltd PO Box 1258, Kyneton Victoria 3444 0458 588 333

38

We induct Eli Taylor, a Gemini Townsville autobody repair apprentice, as the latest Future Leader of The Industry.

A great selection of products specifically designed to enhance your business.

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22

BMW, Hyundai and Ford highlight the benefits of always fitting genuine parts to your vehicle.

Seven Fix Auto franchisees renew their agreements for a second consecutive term.

SUB EDITOR: Joanna Dolan

14

We caught up with Alexandra Holston of AMA Group and found a young, dynamic, driven woman with a heart of gold.

40

Owen Webb brings us all the latest developments and some awesome pics from behind the scenes at the SEMA Show.

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AUTOMOTIVE R E F I N I S H E R

Collision Repair A s s o c i a t i o n the benchmark for quality

DISCLAIMER The National Collision Repairer is published by JMF Solutions Pty Ltd, PO Box 1258, Kyneton Victoria 3444. This publication is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, criticism and review under the Copyright Act (1968), no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission. Enquiries should be addressed to the publisher. The publisher believes all the information in this publication to be correct at the time of printing, however is not in a position to make a guarantee to this effect and accepts no liability in event of any information proving inaccurate. Prices, addresses and phone numbers were, after investigations and to the best of our knowledge and belief, up to date at the time of printing. It is also not feasible for the publisher to ensure that advertisements which appear in the publication comply with the Competition and Consumer Act (2010). The responsibility must therefore be on the individual, company or advertising agency submitting the advertisement for publication. Whilst every endeavour has been made to ensure complete accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Copyright © JMF Solutions Pty Ltd ACN 117 914 235

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Auto Innovation Centre awarded government ZLEV grant Australia’s cutting-edge Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) will become a new zero and low emission vehicle (ZLEV) hub, supporting the vehicle evolution within the aftermarket manufacturing, service, repair and modification sectors. The AIC was awarded a grant by the Victorian Government as part of its Zero Emission Vehicles Commercial Sector Innovation Fund.

Working closely with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the grant will allow the AIC to break down barriers for aftermarket product manufacturers to ensure modified ZLEVs remain fit for purpose and provide automotive technicians with opportunities to be upskilled on ZLEV technology. Both initiatives are designed to support consumers in accessing safe, reliable and affordable ZLEV aftermarket parts, servicing and repair.

“The AIC is a centre of excellence for the automotive industry. It is located in Mulgrave, Victoria, and is uniquely placed to support the automotive industry’s uptake of zero emission vehicles given our existing role supporting the aftermarket with

testing services, and our facility built with automotive training and development in mind,” said Luke Truskinger, AIC’s managing director.

“We will be investing in ZLEVs, charging infrastructure and specialised ZLEV tools and equipment to be at the forefront of this important evolution for the automotive industry. The AIC will become a hub for aftermarket companies wishing to develop new products for these vehicles and a key training facility for technicians to gain the specialist knowledge required to repair and maintain ZLEVs.” Stuart Charity, CEO of the AAAA,

added: “The AAAA actively monitors ZLEV take-up rates and barriers to ensure, as an industry, we can respond to the challenges of this emerging sector. It is our role to support our sector to develop and fulfil important new industry responsibilities in relation to the growing segment of ZLEVs within the automotive industry.”

The AIC’s new ZLEV capability will come online in early 2023. The AAAA will work closely with the AIC to develop and facilitate education and training programs to fast-track the support of this vehicle evolution for the automotive industry.

Skillaroo Isabella Turrise wins Medallion for Excellence As we know, WorldSkills Shanghai 2022 was cancelled in May due to the pandemic and was subsequently replaced by the WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition. At the recently held event, Skillaroo Isabella Turrise won a Medallion for Excellence in the Car Painting category.

Isabella has enjoyed the full support of her employer, the AMA Group, and BASF, the exclusive sponsor of the WorldSkills International Car Painting category. Isabella received continued support in skills development and knowledge using premium refinish brand Glasurit at BASF’s Glasurit Refinish Competence Centre, Sydney, with national head trainer James Green.

With Isabella’s commitment to self-development with BASF and building a promising career within AMA Group, her path to success is already being acknowledged throughout the industry. She was initially identified as a Future Leader of the industry in 2019. She received several industry awards in addition to winning Student of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, and Supply Chain and e-Commerce Student of the Year at the TAFE NSW 2022 Excellence Awards.

When the WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition format was announced, Isabella said: “I hope I can

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encourage other young women interested in the trade to join and go after their own aspirations with the confidence that they will be accepted.”

Suffice it to say, Isabella has excelled at the highest level and continues to inspire young women everywhere. We at the National Collision Repairer invite you to join us and congratulate Bella on this outstanding achievement.

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Car-O-Tronic communicates wirelessly with Vision2, Car-O-Liner’s state-of-the-art measuring software that guides the entire repair process and performs automatic centring, measuring and documentation.

Attention to detail with Car-O-Liner

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Car-O-Tronic Vision2 is the most powerful electronic measuring system for collision damage repair available on the market today.

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I-CAR Gold Class for Micra Accident Repair Centre Breadalbane I-CAR Australia and AMA Group are pleased to announce that Micra Accident Repair Centre Breadalbane has been awarded the prestigious I-CAR Gold Class Collision status.

As the collision repairer industry is changing at a rapid rate, especially with the technological explosion in ADAS and electric vehicles, AMA Group believes teams must be fully trained in using new technology and equipment.

The seamless learning experience and upskilling regimes provided by I-CAR Australia’s Road to Gold Program is a great solution to further the workin-progress learning culture in the business and complement existing associations with OEM partners.

“It was rewarding that Micra Accident Repair Centre Breadalbane is the first AMA Group site in Tasmania to gain the Gold Class status, which also lifts the morale of the facility,” commented John Davidson, AMA Group's area manager for Tasmania and South Australia. “Our face-to-face training was disrupted by COVID-19, but luckily the ability to access online and virtual classroom courses kept us ticking along with I-CAR’s

recommended role-relevant training plan. The online delivery options allowed the techs and estimators to complete some of the training at their own pace and convenience.”

Now that I-CAR’s welding certification and other hands-on development courses are back in motion, Micra’s technicians took part.

“It was well received by all who attended, and it allowed our technicians to mix with other technicians from other facilities as well as the trainers.”

“It was a pleasure working with AMA Group’s Scott Donnelly and the

Micra team to support their Road to Gold Program training progress,” stated Gary Wood, I-CAR Australia’s senior technical advisor. “The team took advantage of our technology, ADAS, EV, Car-O-Liner and estimator online course packages to advance their knowledge. It was also great for the site, as a BMW Accredited Bodyshop, Tesla Approved Collision Centre and a BASF patron, to make use of our Industry Training Alliance partnerships and train in I-CARaccredited ITA courses to gain points towards their Gold Class accreditation.”

I-CAR announces Gold Class for Riviera Panels I-CAR Australia is pleased to announce that Riviera Panels, located in Bairnsdale, Victoria, has been awarded the prestigious I-CAR Gold Class Collision status.

“We initially started training because we recognised I-CAR’s Road to Gold Program courses provided muchneeded training in an ever-changing automotive repair industry. Then it became compulsory for Suncorp preferred repairers, and we sped up our training regime,” commented manager Darryl Webb.

“The I-CAR courses we did were relevant to our business. We used Virtual Classroom courses to upskill older tradespeople on newer vehicle technology. I accrued points from previous Industry Training Alliance (ITA) training and found signing up for more I-CAR courses easy. The online delivery options allowed us to work around a busy schedule and get our staff to do the training. Some struggled with the computer side of the online training but have come out of it with more confidence using them.”

Riviera also uses Axalta and Car-O-Liner in their day-today operations, and some one-on-one ITA training was extremely beneficial. “I did a two-day course with Axalta on Pre-Lean and Lean Foundations, and it was very helpful for me, and the I-CAR points received towards Gold Class status

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were a definite bonus,” added Webb.

Gary Wood, I-CAR Australia’s senior technical specialist, said: “It’s worth noting that while there was a learning curve for some technicians when completing training via our online course delivery, it’s good to hear that the team’s determination to upskill resulted in this experience benefiting them for more than one aspect. This level of dedication is always inspiring, and the results speak for themselves.”

Congratulations to Riviera Panels for achieving their Gold Class accreditation.

VACC welcomes new unfair contract terms legislation Contract law can be complicated, but the principle is simple: big and powerful businesses must stop putting unfair contract terms (UCT) into their contracts with consumers and small businesses. The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) welcomes the Federal Government’s introduction of legislation to enhance protections against UCT. The Bill has passed both Houses of Parliament.

A VACC policy priority, this announcement by the Federal Government is long-awaited, given the culmination of many years of heavy advocacy on behalf of VACC and the MTAA network. For some time, VACC has complained that without the threat of penalties, too many businesses ignore the UCT regime and continue to use standard form contracts that contain unfair terms.

UCT legislation amends the following areas of the law: • Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (CCA) • Australian Consumer Law (ACL) • Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act 2001 (ASIC Act) for insurance contracts.

The legislation will: • strengthen and clarify the existing UCT provisions (first introduced in 2010 for consumer contracts and in 2016 for small business contracts) • reduce the prevalence of UCT in consumer and small

business standard form contracts • introduce a civil penalty regime prohibiting the use of and reliance on UCT in standard form contracts • expand the class of contracts covered by the UCT provisions • strengthen remedies available under the new UCT regime.

The maximum penalty a court can order for an individual will be $2.5 million, and for a company or body corporate, the maximum penalty will be $50 million.

It is anticipated that the Bill will be presented to the Governor-General for assent in the coming weeks. Businesses then have one year to review their standard form agreements and remove or amend any unfair contract terms.

VACC will provide a further update with explanatory material once the Bill becomes an Act of Parliament.

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Ford Australia unveils its national distribution centre When the Blue Oval undertakes a project, it makes sure it’s done right.

Comprising 820 tonnes of steel, 19,500 m3 of concrete, almost 8,000 m2 of translucent roof sheets and 8,500 m2 of wall cladding, you know the national distribution centre is Built Ford Tough!

Warehouse manager John Powell hosted the media at the new facility in Mickleham, north of Melbourne, in November, and it was clear it was his pride and joy. As much as he discussed the engineering and operational aspects of the facility, time and again, he would return to Ford’s primary priority – workplace health and safety.

There is a clear separation of “man and machine”, not only in the warehouse aisles and associated areas but also in the self-contained electric forklift fast charging area.

The loading dock safety control system caught my eye, with warehouse staff “locked out” of the area until inbound trucks are completely parked. There are lights to enhance visibility and even cooling fans to improve operator comfort when unloading a semi-trailer in the height of Melbourne’s summer – yes, we do have a summer!

Not surprisingly, this interlocking loading dock system won a President’s Health and Safety Award in recognition of employee engagement, innovation, and proactive risk reduction strategies, all contributing to Ford’s world-class safety culture.

The layout of the facility is state of the art, with narrow one-way aisles that allow picking without leaving the forklift, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of operator injury.

There are also interlocking gates throughout the warehouse, ensuring

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the abovementioned separation is maintained at all times.

Powell reminded us that Ford maintains stock of every part of every model released in Australia for 10 years, highlighting the challenges of stock control and forecasting. This means that a Ford Dealer can order any one of 100,000 current SKUs at any time. However, because of the impact of the 10-year policy, there can be approximately 250,000 available from the national facility.

Finally, we got a close-up of the fully integrated, fully tracked inventory management system, which, once again, is designed for optimal efficiency to ensure the dealer is supplied with the required parts on time, every time.

The warehouse is almost 50,000 m2 and sits on an 88,000 m2 site that includes canopies, a hardstand and 195 car park spaces. Ford’s investment in such an amazing facility further reinforces its commitment to its dealership network, industry

stakeholders and the millions of Ford customers around Australia.

Tim Bill, Ford’s national parts marketing manager, said: “Our employees, Ford dealers, Ford owners and the collision repair industry are all critically important to Ford in Australia.

Establishing this state-of-the-art facility has enabled us to improve quality, safety, efficiency and customer service for all of them with a focus on the maintenance and repair needs of our current and future vehicles.”

The site also features a 5-Star Green Energy rating, a super awning and a 14.6 m clearance height. With direct access to key rail, road and airport infrastructure, the Ford Customer Service Division has an ideal base to service and support its national clientele.

Editor: This is not just another warehouse. This is a state-of-the-art logistic hub that has been designed and constructed with efficiency, effectiveness and workplace health and safety at front of mind.

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PPG’s digital revolution After helping to finetune PPG’s gamechanging DigiMatch and VisualizID technologies, the local development team couldn’t be more excited about what this combination means for customers across the region.

New technology doesn’t always live up to the hype, but when members of PPG’s local development team first saw the next-generation DigiMatch spectrophotometer and the innovative VisualizID colour visualisation software in action, they knew this was something very special. In early 2022, they were given the crucial task of thoroughly testing the technologies under local conditions and providing feedback to the global team as they prepared to launch this incredible double act.

Although DigiMatch and VisualizID are outstanding technologies in their own right, when put together, the potential was obvious from day one, according to Richard Jeffs, PPG New Zealand’s territory manager. “Back then, I trialled the initial version ‘live’ in a shop for a week, and it was just amazing. Now the launch version is even better – it’s a real game changer!”

It’s a similar story with Trevor Duke, PPG NSW’s training manager. “It was a very impressive concept to begin with, but now it’s ‘next level’. This digital method of colour matching is easy to use and provides massive benefits.”

PPG’s ground-breaking colour

matching concept starts with the marketleading DigiMatch spectro. Thanks to an inbuilt digital colour camera, this compact, lightweight device actually takes readings from six angles of reflectance and six camera angles. In particular, the six colour camera images provide crucial data on texture, pigment particle size, etc. Once the target vehicle has been measured, the highly detailed colour and texture information is seamlessly transferred to the VisualizID function in PaintManager XI. After performing a search against the target vehicle’s colour code, it’s just a matter of utilising the digital tools within VisualizID to choose the best colour formulation match. And it doesn’t use a drop of tinter, says Richard Jeffs. “I refer to it as a digital spray out process. During the trials, the painters found the process very easy to learn. Instead of all the traditional manual steps, they could just skip straight to going through the digitally rendered spray outs on screen and comparing the different variant options to find the correct one.”

When today’s OEM colours can have 200 or more variant formulations listed against them, the combination of DigiMatch and VisualizID takes colour matching to a whole new dimension, says Duke. “You have a 3D digital spray out on screen and, just like a manual spray out, you can do comparisons using different light sources and at different

angles to check the face, flop and flip, etc. You can also zoom in to see how the colour and texture of the pigment particles compare. It’s like having your own spray out cards on a screen. The customers we trialled it with loved the concept and quickly became confident in choosing the right colour formulation and moving onto the next step.”

Jeffs added: “After taking a couple of days to familiarise themselves with the technology, the painters quickly realised the accuracy is excellent, and that made it easy to trust. It not only saves them the labour time of going through a manual spray out process, but it also saves times in avoiding rework.”

For more information or to join the list to have DigiMatch and VisualizID installed, contact your PPG Territory Manager or the PPG Customer Service Hotline (Aust 13 24 24 or NZ 0800 320 320).

Start the new year with new floors!

The lead-up to the festive season break is a great time for collision repairers to schedule in a major workshop clean and tidy, and PPG is making it easy to add the perfect finishing touch.

Thanks to PPG’s special “New Year – new floors” promotion, you can purchase tough, hard-wearing Epoxy Topcoat from the Commercial Performance Coatings range at special pricing between 5 December 2022 and 27 January 2023. This easy-to-use protective coating is ideal for workshop floors, producing a high gloss, easily maintained surface that can withstand plenty of physical abuse. While it’s commonly used in grey, it can also be mixed in handy colours, such as yellow to define walking lanes or red for fire

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hydrant areas, or your choice of almost 10,000 different colours, thanks to the SELEMIX universal tinter system.

As you and your team enjoy a wellearned break, your new floor coatings will have plenty of time to dry thoroughly, and you can kick off the

2023 working year with nice, fresh, easyto-clean floors – what could be better!

For more information, go to www.ppgcpc.com.au, contact your nearest distributor, or call 1300 305 699, where you can also place a phone order.

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C O M P E T I T I O N

U P D A T E

with Garry Maher – I-CAR Australia

Ford Australia announces the winner of the next-gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak Since April this year, Ford Trade Club mMembers have had the opportunity to win an all-new 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak. Tough, smart and versatile, the Next-Gen Ranger is the perfect partner for work, family and play. It’s packed with new features and technology to get the most out of your Ranger life.

In mid-November, representatives from Metro Ford in Brisbane visited of InnoV8 Race Engines in Staplyton, Southeast Queensland, to surprise owner Roger Higgins, the winner of the all-new 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak in the national Ford Trade Club competition.

“I thought it was a bit unusual when the dealer turned up out of the blue.

They reminded me about the Ford Trade Club competition and then said I had won the grand prize., Iit really took me by surprise,” said Roger. “It didn’t quite register at first, but when it began to sink in, I must admit I was in shock – I think I even shed a tear. We can finally get rid of our old FG ute, and, of course, I would like to thank Ford Australia for making this possible.”

The “Win a Ford” Ford Trade Club program has been running for five years., and Iits objective is to encourage the use of new genuine Ford parts sourced from authorised Australian Ford Dealers. Ford

The next-gen Ford Ranger Wildtrak

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reminds us that new genuine Ford parts have been used to build your car and have been made or selected by Ford and rigorously tested as an integral component of the vehicle to meet high quality, safety and performance standards. This ensures that your Ford will drive, function and protect you the way it was intended. And they the parts fit right first time, ensuring installation time is optimised.

With the new connected experience enabled by an embedded modem, the Wildtrak is packed with smart functionality that can be controlled by your voice, phone or central touchscreen, and the wireless charging avoids the hassle of having to plug in your phone!

Ford’s most versatile Ranger ever allows you to better balance work, play and family with the one truck. It’s versatile enough to fit your imagination and tough enough to flex it. The flexible seating includes fold-flat rear seats and fully reclining front seats that provide flexibility in the cabin. You can carry larger items inside or relax in the cabin in greater comfort. It also has a wider track, providing more room between the wheel arches – now you can load a standard-sized “Euro” pallet into the bed.

One thing hasn’t changed. Built Ford

Tough DNA flows through every inch of the Next-Gen Ranger, designed and engineered to be the one truck that can take on anything. The Ultimate Towing Experience provides a 3,500 kg max towing capacity and is loaded with features and tech to help make towing easier and safer. Depending on the variant, the optional integrated trailer brake controller is compatible across different trailer setups, helping to deliver smooth and effective trailer braking.

And finally, visually integrated into the doors on each side, the new dash enhances the sense of cabin width with simple and clean lines. The coast-tocoast instrument panel features a large integrated LCD touchscreen.

It’s no wonder Roger was so impressed!

To learn more about this impressive vehicle, visit the Ford website: https://www.ford.com.au/showroom/ future-vehicle/next-gen-ranger

Editor: In addition to the all-new 2022 Ford Ranger Wildtrak first prize, there were also three runner-up cash prizes of $4,500, $2,500 and $1,000 per region, so look out for the full story, all the winners and lots of pics from the official presentation in the new year.

One of InnoV8's Ford Race Engines.

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Alexandra Holston Director, Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs, AMA Group WE CAUGHT UP WITH ALIX HOLSTON AND FOUND A YOUNG, DYNAMIC AND DRIVEN WOMAN WITH A HEART OF GOLD. ALIX DISPLAYS A LEVEL OF ENTHUSIASM AND COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE IN EVERYTHING SHE DOES. We begin with Alix providing some background: who she is, where she’s come from, and how her career began.

She came through the university system, where she completed a double degree in commerce and science. She initially thought she would work in Alexandra Holston.

chemistry, but she decided that was not for her and converted to a psychology major in addition to finance.

“After uni, I moved to Sydney, where I started my career in investment banking, which is a brutal industry, or at least it was back then. I did learn a lot in my years there, even if it was tough at the time. The person I had been dating at uni also got a role in Sydney, so that worked out well, given we are now married with two wild kids, an elderly greyhound and a puppy.”

Alix says she evolved into investor relations from working with one of her investment banking clients, Davina Gunn. She also saw an opportunity to bring some balance back to her hectic lifestyle. “I always wanted to have kids, but I didn’t think banking was the right environment for me personally to do that. I started in an investor

Alix with AMA Group CEO, Carl Bizon.

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relations consulting firm, but it’s not quite the same as working in the business day-to-day, so I took an in-house job at Village Roadshow, which owns theme parks and cinemas.

About five years later, the company was taken over by private equity, which meant my position was made redundant. I took a less demanding role in the infrastructure sector, thinking it would be great for family life … that lasted about six weeks before the opportunity at AMA Group came up.”

Alix’s introduction to working in the collision repair sector followed an approach “about a role with a company that the recruiter assumed she would never have heard of – AMA Group”. She says they were unaware of her family’s connection to the industry. Her dad, Robin Taylor, has

spent his career in this industry, so growing up, she lived it by osmosis.

“When I met Carl [Bizon], I could see his vision and the challenges and opportunities for the industry and the company. I’ve been here since mid2021, and we have been running at pace since. We’ve made so much progress as a group in the past 17 months, with plenty more to do.”

Regarding the transition, Alix said she quickly realised that, unlike many businesses she’s previously worked in, our industry requires a great deal of skill, talent and passion for ensuring a safe and proper repair and delivering true customer satisfaction. She also joined AMA Group at a time when it was undergoing significant change.

“It was a great opportunity for me to sit at the executive level of a listed company, hopefully make a real contribution and be part of something that will have a positive impact on the business and the people within and around it.”

Although she had previous exposure to the industry, her role does not require her to fundamentally understand how to repair cars or run a panel shop. Instead, she draws on her previous corporate experience, commercial knowledge and her inherent communication skills to ensure she is effective in what she does for the organisation and its stakeholders.

This led our discussion nicely into exploring the breadth and depth of her role, which, as she says, is a functional support role with two

key components.

The first component involves communication with financial stakeholders, including the Australian Stock Exchange and the financial press. “I prepare all the wordy documents and presentations that are submitted to the Stock Exchange, so I have to understand our reporting obligations. I am usually the first port of call for shareholders and the financial press.”

SHE ALSO SAW AN OPPORTUNITY TO BRING SOME BALANCE BACK TO HER HECTIC LIFESTYLE. “I ALWAYS WANTED TO HAVE KIDS, BUT I DIDN’T THINK BANKING WAS THE RIGHT ENVIRONMENT FOR ME PERSONALLY TO DO THAT.” The other part of the role is the connection to the industry – within and outside of AMA Group, the trade press, industry associations and other stakeholders that are more operational in nature. “I also help facilitate communication with our own team by supporting other functions.” She says that ensuring they communicate effectivity with their people, many of whom are on the tools and can’t easily access email, is important, as is finding the right content that adds value. “I love talking to people, and if I can feed back

Alix created her dad Robin's 60th birthday cake.

anything useful into the exec that I’ve picked up from talking to people around the network, that’s great too.”

We moved on to discuss the key challenges of the role. Alix does not shy away from the elephant in the room: reputation. “When I joined the business, I was very aware of the Group’s reputation. I had obviously met Carl before joining the company, so I had no doubt about his motives, values and ethics, and I trusted that he would be building an executive team that shared those. As a business, we have worked really hard to show what we are about and instil the simple philosophy of “Together, we do it right”. This encompasses all our activities from how we treat each other to how we repair cars and service our customers.”

We then discussed Alix’s achievements as a professional businesswoman. Her response was somewhat surprising but gave an even greater insight into the woman she has become.

“In 2011, after spending time volunteering at an orphanage in Ghana, West Africa, I co-founded a charity to fund the construction of a new orphanage building. I went back to visit the community and saw firsthand the impact that we had, which triggered a second project where we established a new well to provide onsite access to water. I am immensely proud of everything that we achieved.”

More recently, Alix joined the board of MiLife-Victoria. This small

The latest addition to the household.

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not-for-profit community service provider builds partnerships so that people of all abilities have all their needs met and can live their best life for their whole life. This is a cause that is dear to her heart as her younger brother, Nicholas, was born with a profound disability. Alix served as president of the board from late 2021 through to stepping back to a general board member role in November 2022.

“It’s been a tough time for the disability sector with the introduction of the NDIS and its well-documented challenges. We had a retiring CEO and had to deal with the pandemic. It was a really challenging time for the organisation, and I was worried it might be the shortest board stint in history if we couldn’t navigate our way through COVID. However, it was, and continues to be, an extremely rewarding role of which I am particularly proud – both of my contribution and the whole organisation.”

Over the years, Alix has drawn support from several people throughout her journey, beginning in her early years when she enjoyed the love and support of a family that has afforded her every opportunity possible. “I went to a great nurturing school with a culture that suited my personality and was encouraged to engage in as many extra-curricular activities as I wanted. My grandparents and parents made it clear they wanted me to do whatever I wanted to do and pursue my dreams.”

Alix adds that all this support and encouragement has allowed her to become the person she is today. Her dad, Robin, instilled his work ethic and passion, and her mum, Naomi, passed on her compassion and literacy skills.

“Both Mum and Dad have an incredibly strong sense of right and wrong, which I think has really shaped who I am.” As a mum of two young children, Alix also considers herself very lucky to have the support of her husband, who also works full time in a demanding job, though she’s quick to point out that “he knew who he was marrying!”

In the career space, her previously mentioned friend and mentor, Davina Gunn, has been there for her since the early days of her investor relations

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SHE ASSURES US THAT THE GROUP WILL CONTINUE TO TAKE AN ACTIVE ROLE IN SUPPORTING VARIOUS INDUSTRY INITIATIVES, INTERACT CONSTRUCTIVELY WITH THE VARIOUS INDUSTRY STAKEHOLDERS AND TAKE A SUPPORTING ROLE IN THE YET-TO-BE-NAMED NOT-FOR-PROFIT INDUSTRY-LED INITIATIVE.

Indulging her passion.

career. She learned everything she knows about her trade from Rowena Causley, currently at Dexus. Alix is also keen to make mention of Carl Bizon, who she says saw something in her that has allowed her to do what she does to the best of her ability.

Alix has some poignant advice for young women considering a career in our industry, and she also points out the plethora of opportunities right throughout the industry.

“Opportunities abound in our industry for young women and anyone else who cares to take a crack at it. There are many opportunities to develop a fulfilling career as a technician, as well as roles in running facilities or parts or admin. Of course,

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a business like AMA Group also has an enormous range of corporate opportunities, including sales, operations and distribution. The nature of our industry is that most highly experienced technicians are men, but I have seen a real passion – both inside AMA Group and in the broader industry – to bring greater diversity to the industry. The next wave of talent could look quite different to our current generation.”

With such a busy lifestyle, I hesitantly ask what Alix does when she is not working or contributing to MiLifeVictoria. “Parenting two young boys can be all-consuming – but a lot of fun!

I also try to keep physically active and balance that around the kids.”

She adds that she also loves live theatre and has a passion for decorating overly complicated cakes.

To get away from it all, the extended family also goes camping to get some fresh air and cook marshmallows over an open fire.

We return to her role at AMA Group and ask if the organisation will continue to engage with the industry and what we can expect in 2023. She assures us that the Group will continue to take an active role in supporting various industry initiatives, interact constructively with the various industry stakeholders and take a supporting role in the yet-to-be-named not-for-profit industry-led initiative. “It is important that, as the largest company in the industry, we continue to listen to our industry stakeholders and support their efforts to improve the industry and ensure its longterm viability and technical excellence.”

“As a listed company, we are focused on generating a return for our shareholders. We can only do this with the efforts of our people, so we will continue initiatives within our Take the LEAD health, safety and environment program, as well as continue to build the workforce of the future through international and apprentice recruitment.”

“In closing, we will continue to progress the initiatives we have laid out to the market, further engage with the industry and build our reputation as an organisation that goes beyond simply complying with requirements to one that is contributing to the industry in every way.”

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Reflections Akzo Nobel Car Refinishes Australia comes of age AS THE BUSINESS FORGES AHEAD INTO ITS THIRD DECADE, WE GO BACK TO THE BEGINNING AND HEAR FROM THREE STALWARTS OF THE AKZO NOBEL BUSINESS WHO REFLECT ON THEIR COMBINED 57 YEARS WITHIN THE ORGANISATION. How it all began AkzoNobel Car Refinishes Australia was established in 1999 following the dissolution of a long-standing importer-distributor relationship with Wattyl Australia, which, at the time, was an ASX-listed company. The inaugural general manager, Tim Loden, embarked upon building a sustainable team, a supply chain and a distributor network to establish the company’s market share.

Coincidentally, in 1998, on the other side of the world, John Bermingham had just kicked off his career with AkzoNobel Ireland as commercial vehicles manager, which he says was a very exciting time to join the company following the acquisition of Mason Coatings in the UK. In 2001, John was promoted to national sales manager and became responsible for the overall business in Ireland. He, his wife Sharon and his two young boys emigrated to Australia in 2010. He joined AkzoNobel Car Refinishes Australia, where he has worked ever since – but more about that later.

Asia regional technical services manager Stephen Read began his career in the coatings industry in 1985 with another paint company, during which time he had several roles over 15 years. However, in 2000 he decided to complement his chemistry degree with a graduate diploma in IT and e-commerce with a view to embarking on an IT career. “Before I could even kick-start my new career, I received a call from a former colleague who suggested I meet with Tim Loden, and we really

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connected well. Although the company was in an embryonic stage, I saw the opportunity to be part of something really special and joined the company in 2001 as the logistics manager.”

Meanwhile, technical services and training specialist Paul Horvath, a spray painter by trade, had honed his skills at several automotive businesses in the 1990s and was well settled at Wattyl. He also received a call that led to a discussion with Tim Loden, and he was invited to join the new company in a technical training role. “With hindsight, this was a huge leap of faith because the company had yet to build its training centre.”

The 2000s Stephen remembers that Tim was really good at aligning the team to the common vision, and they had early success in growing both the customer base and the volume. The training centre, with the addition of a colour lab, was put in place right at the start as it was seen as an essential facility to be able to grow locally and build a team of talented individuals to secure the foundations for future success.

“There was great support from the global business and the other local AkzoNobel business units, and we had a real sense that we were the true pioneers of the business. One of my primary functions was to fine-tune the supply chain and the distribution

footprint, and as it was a time of transition, we faced and overcame challenges on a daily basis. We were also strongly supported by many of our distributors through these formative years.”

Paul also recalls that the early focus was to build market share, which required a huge team effort, and the small team pulled together to get the business up and running and operational.

“In the early years, we travelled the country doing technical trade nights. We undertook technical training in temporary facilities in Port Melbourne and on a client’s site in Abbotsford. The company even sent me to its operation in Atlanta to really understand the finer points of the technology.” Following several years in a technical training role, Paul became involved in an IT project to harmonise the various websites, provided local IT support to the business, and then supported the rollout of the CRM system.

Stephen highlights that a key expansion strategy was to grow the

branch network by acquiring distributors in South Australia, Western Australia and New Zealand, although the business model is quite different today. There were also a couple of key turning points as technology evolved.

“We moved from Sikkens Autobase to Sikkens Autobase Plus, from Lesonal to Lesonal SB, and then we introduced a waterborne basecoat, Sikkens Autowave. These milestones meant that Akzo Nobel was now supplying the latest European technology into the Australia and New Zealand market as some of the industry’s firsts.”

The 2010s Now, John had only just arrived in the country. He recalled the various roles he has since filled from his initial appointment as South Australia’s regional manager. “I assumed the additional responsibility for Western Australia and then relocated to Victoria. The bigger roles really helped me understand the industry, working with a broad crosssection of repairers, distributors, and other key stakeholders.” In 2014, John became national sales manager and was appointed to his current role leading the business as ANZ sales director in 2016.

By 2011, Stephen had become the Asia colour and technical support manager, based in Australia. However, in 2014 he was offered a role in the Netherlands as the global colour support manager, which very quickly became the global colour and

John Bermingham.

technical support manager. “My time in Amsterdam was a great experience, personally and professionally, and being based at head office had both its challenges and its rewards.”

The 2010s were also a time of transition for Paul with the introduction of the Automatchic 3 spectrophotometer, and he became the colour IT support resource to enduser customers. “I assisted with the transition to Mixit Pro and Automatchic 3, and for several years filled both IT and colour IT roles as the company embarked on its initial digital transition. However, in 2014, I came full circle and returned to ‘my roots’ in a technical capacity as the local technical manager/technical trainer.”

John adds that one of the defining moments of the decade was the complete change in the structure of the business in 2016 and its impact on the go-to-market strategy, which he said became a real game-changer as they built new and stronger partnerships with major players in the industry, consequently making a huge impact.

The early 2020s John reflected on how he has navigated the challenges since taking up the mantle of leadership. He said his core belief is “leadership by example”, so he has developed and nurtured an inclusive culture throughout the organisation and created a very resilient team with a positive work ethic

that is both supportive and very rewarding. “I demand a lot from myself and from my team, and it’s a testament to the ANZ business that the majority of my colleagues at AkzoNobel have been with me since I took up my current role – some even longer.”

Stephen recalls that when the pandemic hit Europe, the lockdown in Amsterdam was difficult, and the joys of travelling around Europe were seriously curtailed. It was fortuitous timing when the opportunity arose to return to Australia in early 2021 to take up his current role.

“Some things have changed significantly since I first went to Amsterdam. With the move to centralised support functions, the VR business is a more focused sales organisation. This really allows us to be a more customer-centric business. The market has also evolved with insurers, OEMs, and MSOs becoming much more engaged and therefore more influential, and our streamlined organisation is well suited to these changes.”

Paul also reflected on how his role has evolved over the past two decades, from his early years in a technical training role to his involvement in information technology as it applies to our industry and to AkzoNobel’s products and systems.

He volunteered why he has been so engaged for such a long time. “I work for a great company, have had some fantastic challenges and opportunities, and I get to use some fantastic products. Things are always evolving

Stephen Read

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in our organisation, so there is no end to the learning opportunities.”

Stephen also highlights that a significant change is the industry’s recognition of technology, with the largest proportion of their sales volume now fully European compliant. Although the OEMs have often driven this, he says it is also well-recognised across the independent body shop network.

“Sustainability has never been more important, which is reflected in our products, systems and customer support programs. There is also a greater appreciation that paint isn’t what makes a body shop profitable but that it’s about growth, managing the business and how efficiently it sells labour rather than solely focusing on reducing input costs. Our role is to help our customers recognise this and ultimately make more profit.”

John summed up the impact of the pandemic, saying that it tested everyone’s resilience on so many levels as it was a time of great uncertainty and anxiety. “Although the effects are still prevalent around the globe, our business has bounced back and is now stronger than ever.”

Where to from here?

AkzoNobel has experienced some significant changes and challenges, both in the company and in the Australian market, over the last decade and has always been ready

Paul Horvath.

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to meet them head-on. John outlined what their customers and business partners can expect as AkzoNobel aims to be the number one supplier of choice in the coatings business.

“I know that we are well on our way but still have some work to do. We have many long-term customers who have supported us over the years and have attracted some great new customers in recent years. In addition, we have grown our distribution footprint with great partners, who I believe are among the best in Australasia.”

Stephen added that “the next big thing” for AkzoNobel will be the focus on delivering the 50% reduction in CO2 by 2030 across the whole value chain.

Ironically, most of this will be in vehicle refinishes and, therefore, at the enduser. The task will be to help customers understand that their choices related to technology, process selection and energy source are inextricably linked to reducing carbon emissions. This, in turn, will allow them to make the transition. “While UV-cured clear coats will continue to have a place in the portfolio, new technology in the pipeline includes ‘ambient dry’, which are effectively no-energy coatings that further support CO2 reduction. In addition, growing vehicle autonomy, increasing electrification and repair complexity have implications for both OEM and refinish coatings. We look

UV curing technology.

forward to playing an active role in helping our customers navigate these challenges and identifying the opportunities for their businesses.”

Paul reinforces his passion for all things AkzoNobel as he says he just loves his current role and those he works with every day. “My current focus is on identifying and engaging with the next generation of technicians. We are in a war for talent, so we need to find ways to attract – and then retain – those who are considering their career choices. My current project is to demonstrate what we do and how we do it, using both virtual reality and actual spray painting in our training centre and in our customers’ body shops.”

John brought it all into focus, adding that moving forward, AkzoNobel will continue to strengthen its partnerships and be at the forefront of new sustainable technologies, coatings, colour tools and, of course, digital training and reporting.

“AkzoNobel is well known in the Australasian market as a company at the forefront of innovation, but it’s our people and the support they give our customers that makes all the difference.

Our focus within our chosen market will see us continuing to build partnerships across all areas of our business and ensuring that we are ready for anything that comes our way. It will be a very exciting future for everyone involved.”

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BMW Group Australia Leading technology and safety systems earn BMW X1 top marks in Euro NCAP testing The European consumer protection institute's independent safety experts at Euro NCAP recently awarded the BMW X1 – launched in Australia in November 2022 – the highest rating of five stars thanks to its extensive suite of safety technology and driver assistance systems.

The latest generation of front collision warning with braking function provides an increased level of safety in urban traffic. It can now also detect pedestrians and cyclists approaching parallel to the lane from behind or in front when turning right, effectively helping to avoid a collision.

The BMW X1 features a centre airbag between the driver and front passenger seats as a standard specification element. This system, used for the first time in BMW models in the compact segment, was rated as extremely effective in the test. It is the latest component of the BMW integrated safety concept, which is constantly evolving to offer the most comprehensive level of safety.

In addition, the BMW X1 integrates highly resilient support structures, precisely designed deformation paths and a model-specific combination of coordinated restraint systems.

The new BMW X1 also includes an active engine compartment lid – an additional measure to prevent injury to both pedestrians and cyclists. In the event of an impact, the engine compartment lid is raised by means of pyrotechnic actuators to create additional deformation space between them and the hard components underneath. The system proved reliable and effective at different speeds in the Euro NCAP safety test.

The advanced collision and driver assistance safety systems that are now standard in the BMW X1 demonstrate how technology previously reserved for flagship models has filtered down to the entry-level compact segment.

The advanced interplay of such cutting-edge technologies and driver support systems also underlines the importance of using genuine BMW parts

2 2 – O E M G E N U I N E PA R T S F E AT U R E

to ensure optimum safety performance and correct vehicle functionality.

In addition to ongoing advanced education to understand the critical role these genuine parts play, technicians and panel repairers of the future will require knowledge of body materials and repair techniques to successfully deliver a repair of “beyond OEM” factory standard with the highest levels of integrity.

In the past two years, BMW Group Australia has significantly expanded its accredited national vehicle repair capability for professionals, underpinned by a new globally certified training program.

This initiative encompasses a focus on the use of genuine parts and their pivotal interaction with BMW’s safety systems, as well as the provision of knowledge and expertise to repair advanced components, such as carbon fibre and the space-age structural elements involved in the construction of BMW models, including electric vehicles.

W I L L KO M M E N TO

O U R W O R L D. WIN A TRIP OF A LIFETIME TO BMW WELT, GERMANY.

tradepartner.bmw.com.au

FINAL WEEKS.

The BMW & MINI Trade Partner Programme member­only competition to win a trip of a lifetime to BMW Welt in Munich, Germany, closes on the 31st December 2022.

Act now to be in with a chance to win.

For full details about how to enter and more information about this amazing prize visit the BMW & MINI Trade Partner Programme website or speak to your local BMW & MINI Dealer.

Conditions apply, see tradepartner.bmw.com.au. Open to AU bodyshops & mechanical repairers who are BMW & MINI Trade Partner Programme members. Starts: 1/3/22. Ends: 11:59PM AEDST on 31/12/22.

Max 100 entries p/Period Draw. Period Draws (1 per Group) on 7/7/22; 6/10/22 & 19/1/23. Annual Draws (1 per Group) on 19/1/23. All draws at 5/210 Central Coast Hwy Erina NSW 2250 at 1PM AEDST. Period Prizes (1 per draw): $1.5K BMW Driving Experience voucher. Annual Prize (1 per draw): 1st prize – trip for 1 adult to Munich valued at up to $25.5K; 2nd prize – $1.5K BMW Driving Experience voucher; & 3rd prize – $1K BMW or MINI dealership voucher. Winners at tradepartner.bmw.com.au from 14/7/22. Promoter: BMW Australia Ltd (ABN 11 004 675 129) of 783 Springvale Road, Mulgrave VIC 3170.

NSW Permit No. TP/ 01661. ACT Permit No. TP22/ 00257. SA Permit No. T22/ 173.

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Hyundai Motor Company Australia Recommends the use of Hyundai Genuine Parts Give yourself and your customer’s peace of mind by only using new Hyundai Genuine Parts.

With a 12-month warranty+, Hyundai Genuine Parts are designed and manufactured to meet Hyundai’s exacting engineering specifications and to help protect vehicle occupants in collisions.

Hyundai Genuine Parts, including all elements of Hyundai’s occupant restraint system, are installed on Hyundai vehicles when they are tested to ensure they meet the Australian Design Rule (ADR) safety and crash protection standards.

Hyundai Genuine Parts help to ensure driver and passenger protection and vehicle integrity.

The use of imitation, aftermarket, alternative or other non-original equipment for the repair of any collision

damaged vehicle may negatively affect vehicle crashworthiness and occupant safety during a collision and is not recommended by Hyundai Motor Company Australia.

Additionally, Hyundai Motor Company Australia does not recommend the use or re-use of components removed or recycled from an existing collision-damaged vehicle. It may be difficult to tell if recycled parts are non-original equipment parts, or if the parts have been damaged because of prior collision or exposure to the elements.

To ensure your customer’s safety and the integrity of the Hyundai vehicle you are repairing, Hyundai Motor Company Australia recommends the use of new, Hyundai Genuine Parts as they are designed specifically for the vehicle and assist with optimum safety and reliability.

Contact your local Hyundai dealer today to find out more.

Hyundai.com.au/en

Genuine Parts + All Hyundai Genuine Parts purchased from Hyundai dealers come with a 12-month unlimited kilometre warranty from time of fitment. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply, see www.hyundai.com/au/en/owning/icare/warranty for details. The warranty does not limit and may not necessarily exceed your rights under the consumer guarantees in the Australian consumer law.

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Not all Parts are equal.

Get Hyundai Genuine Parts and enjoy the reassurance of a 12 month manufacturer warranty+, not all Parts are equal. Our comprehensive range of Genuine Parts are manufactured and tested to meet Australian standards, contact your local Hyundai dealer today to find out more.

Hyundai.com.au/en

Genuine Parts +All Hyundai Genuine Parts purchased from Hyundai dealers come with a 12-month unlimited kilometre warranty from time of fitment. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply, see www.hyundai.com/au/en/

owning/icare/warranty for details. The warranty does not limit and may not necessarily exceed your rights under the consumer guarantees in the Australian consumer law.

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Ford Australia Genuine parts and genuine insurance When is genuine not genuine?

Let’s ask another question first. Have you ever received a Ford part in an original Ford box that doesn’t fit? And a bonus question: have you ever scratched your head on that one?

Just because a part comes in a Ford box from a Ford factory, it doesn’t mean it’s suitable for use in every country.

Seemingly identical vehicles between countries can have subtle differences in measurements, shape and materials in response to local preferences or regulations. As a result, parts are supplied for each country through approved distribution channels to match the vehicles sold in that country.

Take, for example, a bumper bar intended for supply to one country but fitted to a vehicle supplied to a different country. If the design or construction of the bumper bar is different in those two countries, it could result in a response during a collision that was only hundredths of a second different. But that splitsecond difference in response may result in airbag deployment not occurring as designed, putting the safety of occupants at risk.

If you’ve seen the dramatic “watermelon test” Honda created to show the effects of a mistimed airbag deployment that was out by just 7/100ths of a second, you might want to question the choice of the part source. www.youtube.com/watch?v=QS6yw FGcLSk The only official distribution channel for Ford parts in Australia is Ford Australia’s Authorised Australian Dealer Network. Other sellers, known as Parallel Parts Importers, source their selective range of parts from wherever they can get them around the world without understanding which parts are suitable for which markets. Parts purchased through authorised channels have stickers that

include identifying information on the source of the part. This means they can be traced back with confidence.

On parallel parts, you may notice that these stickers are usually removed, so there is no way of knowing exactly what you are getting. This should ring alarm bells!

Identifying a part that is not for Australian specifications is easy if it does not fit (for example, lugs not in the right place). Still, there is no simple way to identify those with different materials.

Compounding this, counterfeit parts have been found in shipments of parallel imported parts, as reported by the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries on 19 February 2021. www.fcai.com.au/news/index/view/ news/702 Ford Parts that have not been sourced through the authorised supply channel will not be covered by the Ford Express Parts and Accessories warranty. Should the unauthorised part cause or contribute to any issues with the vehicle, Ford will not be held responsible.

This is why it is important to source your parts through the official channels (Australian Authorised Ford Dealers) as it’s the only way you can be sure that you are getting the appropriate Ford genuine part with its performance guaranteed by Ford Australia. Is it worth the risk?

What’s a great way to ensure the use of genuine parts in Collision Repairs?

The answer is Ford Premier Motor Insurance.

Are you aware that Ford offers a branded insurance product? One of the key benefits is the guaranteed use of genuine parts for the life of the policy, regardless of the age of the vehicle (while parts are available1). No questions asked. Couple this with Choice of

2 6 – O E M G E N U I N E PA R T S F E AT U R E

Repairer2 (at no extra cost), and you can see that this insurance looks after both the customer and the repairer.

A few other great benefits to call out as standard are: • Three years new for old replacement if the vehicle is written off.3 • Monthly payments available at no extra cost.4 We encourage you to consider these insurance features for your personal and business Ford vehicles and to promote them to your customers. Not all car insurance offers as many benefits as Ford Premier Motor Insurance, so when you compare policies, look at the detail in the PDS to truly compare like for like.

We are confident the benefits of Ford insurance speak for themselves.

There’s more Ford is also pleased to announce that, as of November 2022, Ford Premier Motor Insurance can be purchased online by visiting www.ford.com.au/owners/insurance For peace of mind with genuine parts1 and choice of repairer,2 Ford has you covered.

To learn more, visit the website, call 1300 203 090 to speak to a Ford insurance specialist, or ask a participating Ford Dealer.

See facing page for disclaimers and conditions

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FixAuto Australia Seven franchisees double down FIX AUTO AUSTRALIA HAS ROUNDED OFF ANOTHER STRONG YEAR FOR ITS NETWORK BY RENEWING FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE TERMS FOR SEVEN OF ITS FRANCHISE LOCATIONS. Having been in Australia for just over five years, 2022 saw the franchise agreements for Fix Auto’s pioneering “first locations” come to an end. Such is the value of being in the network; it should come as no surprise that all seven of the shops ending their first five-year term have renewed their agreements and remain committed to the vision of the rapidly expanding global brand.

Stuart Faid, Vice President – Asia for Fix Network and Head of the Fix Auto Australian business, commented on the renewals and said: “This is the litmus test of whether we are doing things right by our network’s standards. Joining our network provides franchisees with access to our tools and resources, as well as our

Stuart Faid.

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commitment to driving their business to its full potential. This is the promise we make to our shops, which in turn hold us to account to ensure we are focused on delivering on it, all day, every day. When a shop has the opportunity to consider the value we have added to their business and decide whether to go back to how it was or renew and remain in the family, this decision is made based on whether we lived up to our promises.

I cannot stress how important this one measure of success is to the whole team. I am beyond delighted that everyone has renewed.”

When asked about their decision to renew their partnership with Fix Auto, the franchisees were more than willing to explain their rationale. Here’s what they had to say.

Travis Arnold – Fix Auto Morley and Malaga City “I realised early on that the business I owned and operated was a tiny fish in a massive ocean when you compare a small body shop that has five full-time staff to the likes of a national insurer that services millions of policyholders.

I needed to become relevant.

Joining the largest network of independent body repairers in the world gave me that relevancy. Since joining, my business has experienced positive growth in all areas, and I have now bolstered my position with the acquisition of a second location. Renewing with the network was a simple decision for me. In 2016, I was at risk of becoming an irrelevant body shop in WA. Fast forward to 2022, and I am at the start of my MSO strategy with multiple insurer relationships, employing 36 staff and growing year on year. I’m looking forward to the next renewal.”

Travis Arnold.

Steve Lopresti – Fix Auto Osborne Park “I joined when I saw the industry starting to change for independent shops.

Knowing that hundreds of other repairers worldwide had joined Fix Auto to be part of a single group but remained in control of their business felt like a great way to face those changes. Now we leverage the buying power and negotiating power of over 800 shops worldwide with global pricing and support. We could never do that on our own. I also really value being part of a group and meeting, sharing, and solving problems with other shop owners going through the same challenges. They are not competing with you; they are part of the same network, so we support each other and work together. Renewing our agreement means we stay connected to those benefits and continue to work with a bunch of really great people.”

Steve Lopresti.

Andy Allen – Fix Auto Wangara “We became part of the Fix Auto family a little over five years ago because we wanted to have the backing and support of the world’s largest repair network and the advantage of still being owner operated. Having the support of the team in helping us grow has meant that in the last two years, we relocated and more than doubled the size of our business. When the time came to renew, it was a simple decision; how could we not? With the increase in work from the insurance companies through the Fix Auto relationships and the operational support from the team at Fix Auto, our business can only continue to go from strength to strength.”

Rodney Tannous – Fix Auto Wollongong “Being part of the Fix Auto family has provided strength and support to my business in ways that are not possible as a stand-alone shop. The corporate team has built strong relationships with work providers and industry stakeholders, which has grown my business exponentially while allowing me to concentrate on just running the business. The structured approach to business improvement reporting and benchmarking within the group and industry to help me achieve my full potential has ensured I have thrived, even during COVID. The customer satisfaction NPS process is far superior to any individual shop’s ability to track and respond to customer feedback. The list goes on, but in summary, Fix Auto is a strong, respected network that delivers real value to both members and our insurance partners.”

Rodney Tannous.

Jason Whittaker – Fix Auto Lake Macquarie “We initially signed up to the Fix Auto group five years ago because of the changes we saw happening with consolidation. We wanted to stay visible and relevant and knew that as a single shop, this was going to be difficult against the large national groups. Since joining Fix, they have supported us operationally, and with securing work and have relationships in the industry at a level we cannot get. We signed up for another five years because the support we get with securing more customers and the performance management of our business has been invaluable and would be very difficult for us to do on our own. They have the people, processes and systems that mean we can focus on repairing cars and making our customers happy.”

Jason Whittaker.

Gail and Andy Allen.

The National Collision Repairer – 2 9

5

Minutes with ...

Scott Wiseman Key Account & OEM Manager, Axalta Coating Systems When did you join the industry?

I have been in and around the industry since I could walk, but full-time in 1990.

What was your first job in the industry?

I remember working in my father’s panel shop in the 1980s during school holidays, doing various things and getting a little yellow pay-packet with my name on it at the end of each week with $5 in it.

I guess that was the beginning …

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Lana Pagiamtzis – Fix Auto Mulgrave and Clayton “I was originally attracted to the Fix Auto network because I could see how consolidators were impacting the industry. Fix Auto gave me the opportunity to stay independent but compete like a consolidator. This decision has really paid off for me.

The support that Fix Auto provides is amazing; honestly speaking, we could not accomplish many of the things we have done without them. They really do a lot of the heavy lifting for our business. I can concentrate on running my business, and they support us by liaising with insurers and with policies, procedures and the analysis of our business data. Then they help us improve by acting on that level of understanding of our performance.

Fast forward five years, and I have purchased a second Fix Auto location

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and was delighted to commit for another five years with the brand.

Since joining Fix, my turnover has tripled! I am super excited to see what the next five years bring.”

Ron Mcguire – Fix Auto Shoalhaven “After 30 years as Mcguires Smash Repairs, I decided to join the Fix Auto Group back in 2017 and have not looked back. From going it alone to joining a group, the difference to my shop is huge.

The backup and knowledge available to me is amazing. Whatever the problem, there is someone that can help you solve it, plus the extra set of eyes on your business, helping you perform better, really keeps you on your toes. Renewing for another term was an obvious decision. It has been great for me. After all those years, I was becoming complacent. Ultimately, joining Fix Auto proved to be necessary for my continued success in the industry.”

What do you like about the industry?

Like most, the camaraderie. I’ve always been amazed at the willingness of most sections of the industry to help and learn from each other.

What do you dislike about the industry?

Nothing. If you dislike something about your job or career, why keep doing it?

What keeps you awake at night?

If I had to choose one thing, it would be wondering about the future and what it holds.

Who is your biggest inspiration?

Family - hands down.

If you could change one thing, what would it be?

For all stakeholders to spend more time at the table together understanding each other’s challenges, to then be able to then collaborate more effectively to create solutions that will help make the industry sustainable.

What do you do when you’re not working?

Spend time with family and friends, exercise, watch any type of sport, and some volunteering.

Who in the world would you most like to meet?

Paul Kelly (the musician), and anyone who has turned their willingness or passion to help others less fortunate into something bigger.

Lana Pagiamtzis.

Ron Mcguire.

In summary, Faid added: “Our mission remains fixed, and what we do is evidenced by our network renewing their commitment to Fix Auto. Moreover, we are the only option in the industry that helps an independent shop owner protect their business while maintaining ownership and control in a rapidly contracting marketplace. Our industry is driving consolidation as a way of achieving economies of scale, efficiencies and productivity gains. Lone, independent shops are at increasing risk of being ‘consolidated out’. Our model gives those shops the ability to retain ownership and control while delivering those consolidated benefits to our customers. The team and I are passionate about protecting and futureproofing those independent businesses, and we are excited to welcome them into our network in the coming year and beyond.”

3 0 – SPECIAL REPORT

&)'%97) 8,) 2)<8 +)2)6%8-32 1%88)67 FIX AUTO. IT’S A FAMILY THING At Fix Auto, we are committed to helping ensure your hard work can be passed on. Our training, systems, technology and support give your business the tools it needs to stand the test of time.

With over 730 locations in 12 countries, Fix Auto is the world’s largest network of independent repairers.

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Powering ahead for its members CAPRICORN’S 2022 TRADE SHOW AND GALA EVENT ROADSHOW CONCLUDED IN MELBOURNE LAST MONTH, AND WITH CHRISTMAS ONLY WEEKS AWAY, MELBOURNIANS CAME OUT IN STYLE. The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre once again hosted the trade show, with 70 Preferred Suppliers showcasing their special offers and displaying their support for the extraordinary number of Members who visited throughout the afternoon.

It was clear that the Capricorn team was out in force for their Members and Preferred Suppliers to ensure everyone had everything they needed. David Fraser (Group CEO), Bradley Gannon (CEO Automotive), Steve Brown (Head of Supply) and

Capricorn Chair Mark Cooper.

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Cameron Thorpe (Head of Sales) all found their way onto the floor, chatting with suppliers and members alike.

There was a real sense of belonging and mutual commitment to the greater good throughout the room. The Capricorn business model exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between suppliers, members and, of course, the Capricorn Group – it really is a win-win-win!

Of course, there was the semicompetitive side to the trade show as the much-coveted Best Booth Award was up

for grabs. This year the team from OzWide Tools took the honours, winning a free booth for next year’s event.

With the trade show wrapped up, we moved to Melbourne’s premier venue, the Crown Palladium, for the gala dinner.

The MC for the evening was actor, TV personality and stand-up comedian Peter Rowsthorn, who kept the evening moving along. He got the formalities underway by introducing Capricorn Chair and Victoria/Tasmania Director Mark Cooper, who outlined the performance for the year ended June 2022.

Capricorn Group CEO David Fraser.

Results summary: • Group purchases were $2.93 billion from in excess of 25,000 members, a year-on-year increase of 13% • Total member returns of $43.35 million in reward points • Fully franked dividend of 5 cents per share • A trade volume rebate of $15 million • $72.5 million total returns for the financial year, inclusive of Reward Points and franking tax benefits.

Divisional highlights included: • Capricorn Risk: $99.59 million in gross protection and provided a $4 million Loyalty Rebate to eligible Mutual Members.

• Capricorn Finance: $33.01 million in finance loans.

• Capricorn Travel: $2.78 million in travel sales as borders reopened.

Cooper concluded by acknowledging the efforts of CEO David Fraser and thanked him and his leadership team for their tireless work throughout the year, ensuring that Capricorn, its Members and Suppliers all continue to thrive.

“I would also like to thank our Preferred Suppliers and extend a huge

thanks to you, our Members, for your continuing support of our Cooperative.

You don’t just own Capricorn; you are Capricorn. So it is with great satisfaction that I see the power of cooperation returning such great results,” said Cooper. “I wish you all a fantastic evening and another prosperous year ahead as a Capricorn Member.”

Rowsthorn then introduced Group CEO David Fraser to a rousing reception as he highlighted the achievements of FY22. “I’m pleased to say Capricorn has welcomed 2,681 new Members this financial year.

That’s thousands of automotive businesses across Australia and New Zealand now leveraging the power of our cooperative to benefit their workshops, their staff and their customers. We welcome them and our new Preferred Suppliers into the Capricorn community. Our new Members took our membership past the 25,000 mark – making us Australia’s third largest cooperative.”

Fraser went on to say that FY22 also marked 25 years since Capricorn began operating across the Tasman – starting in 1997 with one team

member, one Member and four Preferred Suppliers. “We now have 4,800 New Zealand Members and 420 Preferred Suppliers. It’s been an absolute privilege to support each business owner who has embraced the power of the cooperative in the intervening years.”

Capricorn has come a long way in the 48 years since 17 Golden Fleece service station operators decided to create a buying group to leverage their purchasing power. “Steady growth over the past five decades has been a hallmark of Capricorn’s success, and we couldn’t do it without you, so thank you for being a valued Member of the cooperative,” added Fraser.

With Australia and New Zealand finally opening their borders after two years, the mood in the automotive industry by the end of the 2022 financial year was buoyant. “Certainly, that’s the impression I got at our Hayman Island Convention in June, which was the first in-person convention we’ve been able to hold since Spain in 2018. It was fantastic to see so many Members and Suppliers together in one place again.”

The National Collision Repairer – 3 3

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Fraser went on to say: “Supporting our members’ businesses and helping to make them stronger is fundamental to ensuring a positive and sustainable future. Making your business ‘Stronger with Capricorn’ is, without a doubt, the major advantage of being a Capricorn Member.”

There were 341 nominations for Capricorn Rising Stars, with Members putting their best young talent forward for recognition. Fraser added that this was great to see, especially as our industry and government are having important conversations about apprentices and their vital role as a pipeline of future talent for our industry. Fraser congratulated Marama Thompson of Auto Shoppe Eurotech in New Zealand, who was named Capricorn’s 2022 Rising Star.

Fraser concluded by acknowledging and thanking all the Capricorn staff for their contribution and commitment to Capricorn Members and Preferred Suppliers, saying that without their people, there really would be no Capricorn.

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“To you, our Members – thank you again. I firmly believe in the value of the cooperative model and believe the success of Capricorn is a testament to our community and the ecosystem we’ve all created. No matter the size of your business – large, medium or small – together, we can achieve more than we can alone. For me, it’s all about driving value and benefits to Members.”

Rowsthorn returned to announce the 14 new Victoria/Tasmania Suppliers of Capricorn’s “Million Dollar Club” who, for the first time, have processed more than $1 million in Capricorn Member purchases in the past financial year: • Hobart Dealership • 3 Point Motors • Active Power Steering • Alan Mance Motors • Berwick Motor Group • Brighton Mazda • Daimler Trucks Somerton • Dandenong Mitsubishi • Deltone Solutions • Eastern Honda

• Ferntree Gully Volkswagen • Max Kirwan Motorland • Mercedes-Benz Toorak • RSP Automotive & Industrial Rowsthorn then smoothly rolled into his own routine, using all his experience from his early days with the Comedy Company and Hey Hey It’s Saturday and, of course, his iconic role as Brett Craig on Kath and Kim. With almost 40 years in the entertainment industry, Rowsthorn showed he was still as good as ever.

His final task for the evening was to introduce the band, Chunky Jam, who played to a crowded dance floor long into the night as Suppliers and Victorian and Tasmanian Members celebrated another great year with Capricorn.

Editor: In a year of such significant transition, Capricorn has delivered for its members yet again, and with a real sense of camaraderie in the room, David Fraser and Bradley Gannon can once again be truly proud of their achievements.

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AkzoNobel named global refinish partner for EV manufacturer BYD AkzoNobel recently announced it had become the global refinish partner for new energy vehicle manufacturer BYD Auto Sales Company Ltd, the world’s leading seller of electric vehicles.

The company has been a recommended supplier of vehicle refinish products and services to BYD in China since 2017. The new deal means the agreement will continue while extending the partnership to serve BYD’s body shops and approved repairer networks worldwide.

Originally a battery maker, BYD now has more than 1,180,000 new energy vehicles in operation, having been ranked first in China’s electric vehicle sales for six consecutive years from 2014 to 2019.

“We’re delighted to broaden our partnership with BYD globally and together push ahead with our shared ambition of reducing carbon emissions,” says Patrick Bourguignon, director of AkzoNobel’s Automotive and Specialty Coatings business. “Making transport more sustainable is a major driving force behind our innovation, and BYD will benefit from a host of digital tools and cutting-edge services, as well as our class-leading vehicle refinish systems.”

One of these tools will include the recently launched CO2eRepairCalculator, designed to measure, manage and reduce carbon emissions. It’s part of a new initiative that aims to encourage body shops to become more sustainable.

Other digital solutions include MIXIT, AkzoNobel’s digital

colour identification and retrieval application. Meanwhile, the company’s Wanda brand will continue to be supplied in China, with plans to supply Sikkens and Lesonal globally.

Bourguignon concluded: “We look forward to supporting BYD with its pioneering work in the eMobility space while underlining our own commitment to halving our carbon emissions across the full value chain by 2030.”

This article courtesy of Russell Thrall III, publisher CollisionWeek. Check out the website at: www.collisionweek.com

BMW to utilise Alexa for next-gen voice assistance At Amazon’s annual Devices and Services launch event, the Munich-based OEM announced that the next-generation BMW voice assistant will be built on Alexa technology.

“The Alexa technology will enable an even more natural dialogue between driver and vehicle so drivers can stay focused on the road. This will bring the digital experience to an entirely new level,” said Stephan Durach, senior vice president of Connected Company and Development Technical Operations at BMW Group.

Dave Limp, Amazon’s senior vice president of Devices and Services, added: “This cooperation with BMW is a great example of what Alexa Custom Assistant was designed for – to make it faster and easier for companies to develop custom intelligent assistants for virtually any device without the cost and complexity of building from the ground up.”

Since the first BMW voice assistant (BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant) was introduced in 2018, voice

interaction has become an increasingly important part of BMW iDrive. The new BMW voice assistant will work in cooperation with Alexa, providing customers with the benefits of an intelligent assistant that is the vehicle and services expert. Alexa provides the familiar experience many customers are already using today, such as the ability to control music, remotely manage a smart home, add items to a shopping list, or check the weather for

the day. Customers can still choose to use either the BMW voice assistant and Alexa individually or have both assistants work alongside each other.

The first vehicles with the new generation of BMW’s voice assistant will launch within the next two years.

The BMW Group and Amazon share a strong commitment to maintaining customers’ trust and protecting their privacy, including giving them control over their data.

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PPG highlights sustainability in Milan As part of a special “European Researchers’ Night” event, a team of PPG experts has taken the opportunity to highlight the sustainability benefits of the company’s advanced coatings. Held at the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum of Science and Technology in Milan, the Europe-wide public event showcased the diversity of science and how it impacts citizens’ daily lives in inspiring ways.

Utilising the museum’s interactive chemistry laboratory – an educational resource developed in partnership with PPG – the PPG team carried out experiments to demonstrate the properties of PPG’s automotive and heatreflecting coatings. One of the night’s highlights was a coating inspired by the heat-reflective properties of an eggplant! This first-to-market PPG heat-management exterior coating keeps aircraft cool and reduces related air conditioning and energy use – the exterior remains up to 14° C cooler, and interior cabin temperatures are reduced by 3° C to 4° C. The same technology is also used to help reduce temperatures inside buildings.

The PPG demonstration team was led by Federico Menta, PPG Automotive Customer Development’s global technical director. “At PPG, we are committed to innovating

sustainable products that enable our customers’ sustainability. We promote sustainability along the entire supply chain, from raw materials through manufacturing to the finished product. This applies across all our end-use markets. In the automotive industry, for example, our industry-leading electrocoat technology helps customers reduce their waste and energy use. We have developed a range of coatings and related products that support the transformation to electric vehicles.”

PPG has also committed to reducing its carbon footprint via energy projects at various coatings plants.

PPG’s Federico Menta

Hyundai’s mass-market brand value continues to rise Hyundai Motor Company has announced that its Interbrand global brand value rose 14% year-on-year to $17.3 billion in 2022, placing it 35th for the second straight year and marking its 8th consecutive year among the top 40 brands. This also marked the fastest growth among automotive mass-market brands, excluding luxury/premium.

The key factors in Interbrand’s positive appraisal of Hyundai Motor include the company’s strategic focus on EVs, expansion of its future mobility vision into “Metamobility”, and its proactive ESG management, all underlining its future-proof business feasibility and competitiveness compared to other automotive brands during a major paradigm shift in the industry.

Leading the EV market Hyundai’s growing IONIQ line-up is widely acknowledged for bringing innovative technologies and exciting designs to the increasingly competitive EV segment. IONIQ 5 established Hyundai Motor’s design and technology direction for future EVs, winning numerous awards. The recently released IONIQ 6 “Electrified Streamliner” is attracting the keen interest of consumers and critics alike, and the company will leverage its industry-leading manufacturing know-how to add the IONIQ 7 all-electric SUV in 2024.

Expanding future mobility vision At the Consumer Electronics Show this year, Hyundai Motor showed how its robotics business will drive the paradigm shift towards future mobility, going beyond the traditional means of transportation to fulfil unlimited freedom of movement for humankind. In support of this mobility vision,

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the company revealed its Metamobility concept. This concept aims to pioneer a smart device–metaverse connection that will expand the role of mobility to virtual reality, ultimately allowing people to overcome physical limitations.

Proactive ESG management In addition to the realisation of eco-friendly and future-centric technologies, Hyundai is enhancing its brand credibility and empathy through proactive environmental, social and governance initiatives, such as reinforcing guidelines for improving the working environment in the supply chain. The company was included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) World Index for the first time last year.

“As the automotive industry continues to go through a major paradigm shift, Hyundai Motor will continue striving to transform into a smart mobility leader that not only secures technological prowess through bold investments in the future mobility industry but also fulfils its responsibilities for a better tomorrow for all mankind,” said Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company.

Hyundai Ioniq 6.

WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition Winners of the WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition for Car Painting raised the bar in skill and sustainable practices. The event was held from 18 to 22 October in Silkeborg, Denmark.

This event was the official replacement for the 46th edition WorldSkills competition that would have been held in Shanghai in May but was cancelled due to the pandemic. In its place, 62 skill competitions were conducted in 15 countries and regions between October and the end of November.

Thirteen of the world’s best painters competed during four intensive days, with each completing specific tasks. “We were very proud to have the most skilled young car painters in the world here with us in Silkeborg. Having witnessed their spirit and sheer determination has set an example for us all,” said Simon Neergaard-Holm, CEO of WorldSkills Denmark. “WorldSkills Denmark celebrates all our finalists, especially the winners, and their achievements and enthusiasm. They represent an outstanding generation of young painters for the industry.”

The winners Car Painting Skills Champions: • Victor Berthelier from France – joint Gold Medallist • Jongyun Kim from Korea – joint Gold Medallist • Craig Kennedy from the United Kingdom – Bronze Medallist For the first time, three Medallion for Excellence Awards were presented for outstanding scores in individual tasks: • Johannes Brandl from Germany • Dorien Lozeau from Canada • Isabella Turrise from Australia Sustainable Practice Awards highlighting eco-effectiveness: • Dorien Lozeau from Canada – First Place • Craig Kennedy from the United Kingdom – Second Place

• Hazza Almansouri from the United Arab Emirates – Third Place.

Tailored webinars about using refinish products, processes and colour retrieval solutions from Glasurit, BASF’s premium refinish brand were made available to all painters and country experts at the competition. The finalists were trained in a hybrid format using Glasurit trainers in the countries with all product and process information available on Glasurit Know-how, one of the most extensive refinish information platforms in the industry, which offers e-books and video training.

“As the official Global Industry Partner of WorldSkills, Glasurit is proud to be part of the WorldSkills Special Edition in Denmark, where we wholeheartedly support passionate young talent to realise their professional ambitions,” said Roar Solberg, BASF’s vice president of Automotive Refinish Coatings Solutions, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “Our training programs ensure young painters can deliver outstanding results most sustainably. The industry is working toward reducing emissions, protecting the environment, using fewer resources, and managing waste.

We witnessed how mindful and skilled these young painters are, especially when considering the outstanding quality they produced while finding efficiencies for materials, water and energy savings in the painting process. At Glasurit, we call that eco-effectiveness.”

In March 2022, BASF signed a multi-year global industry partnership as the exclusive sponsor of the Car Painting category of WorldSkills International, including the sponsorship rights to the next WorldSkills event to be held in Lyon, France, in 2024. Celebrating diversity and inclusion is an integral part of BASF’s DNA, and the company continues to welcome painters from all over the world and from all backgrounds.

The National Collision Repairer – 3 7

F U T U R E

L E A D E R S

Proudly sponsored by IAG

Eli Taylor AMA Group THE LATEST FUTURE LEADER OF THE INDUSTRY PRESENTATION WAS MADE TO ELI TAYLOR, A GEMINI TOWNSVILLE AUTOBODY REPAIR APPRENTICE, AT AMA GROUP HEAD OFFICE IN MELBOURNE IN THE PRESENCE OF HIS PROUD MUM, ROSIE. Following a brief introduction, MC for the occasion, George Manos, IAG’s industry risk and governance manager, welcomed the guests and thanked Carl Bizon and the AMA team for hosting the event. He then invited AMA Group’s COO, Mathew Cooper, to say a few words.

“Eli’s rise from a shy, work experience student to a highly motivated apprentice has led to an even greater interest in our industry and our company in Townsville. He leads by example, which is a credit to his own dedication and the values instilled in him by his parents,” said Cooper.

Cowboys Community Foundation’s Catherine Spencer added: “Eli has developed since he first came to us in 2019 and has become a role model for the next intake of Indigenous students. I am sure he will go on to bigger and better things.”

Jason Trewin, I-CAR Australia’s COO, added: “You are a very impressive young man and a true inspiration to your community. I encourage you to continue learning, and I have no doubt that you will go on and fulfil your potential.”

Trewin then presented two I-CAR training vouchers to recognise Eli’s award.

Manos returned to “the podium” and invited Eli to come forward for an impromptu interview.

GM: Where did you grow up, and what got you interested in cars?

ET: I was born and raised in Doomadgee in the Gulf of Carpentaria, a very remote location in northwest Queensland. Our family has always had a passion for cars – it was part of our growing up.

GM: Tell us about your experience at Cowboys House.

ET: I moved to Cowboys House in Townsville to advance my education and found a really supportive environment, which was very important, being so far from home.

GM: So, how did you find your way into the Gemini organisation?

ET: With the help of Cowboys House, I joined Gemini as a Year 11 school-based apprentice, and when I completed Year 12, I became a full-time apprentice. It is a very supportive culture at Gemini Townsville, and it’s so great to be part of the national organisation.

GM: And you’re inspiring your family and friends back home in Doomadgee.

ET: I tell others that when you go to work, the best way to learn is “heads up, ears out”. My younger brother is also at Cowboys House, which is really great.

GM: And what is your long-term career goal?

ET: It would be fantastic to be able to work overseas and then return to Doomadgee and start my own repair business in the local community.

GM: And finally, what is your dream car?

ET: I’ve always wanted a Nissan Skyline – what an awesome car!

Manos then congratulated Eli on his achievements and presented the Future Leader of the Industry certificate. He concluded: “IAG is proud to continue its partnership with the National Collision Repairer on this great initiative, particularly with such a strong alignment with IAG’s own values.”

On receiving his award, Eli said: “I cannot speak more highly of the support I’ve had from AMA Group, Gemini Townsville and NRL Cowboys House. I also want to thank I-CAR Australia and IAG for their support of this award – I am blown away.”

Editor: We congratulate Eli and wish him every success in his career.

IAG's George Manos presents Eli with his certificate.

3 8 – FUTURE LEADERS

IAG’s ongoing support and sponsorship of these awards is greatly appreciated, as is the support from I-CAR Australia, who donates two training courses valued at over $500 to each Future Leader of the Industry.

to the 2022 Future Leaders of the Industry ...

Eli Taylor

Elizabeth Borg

Paul Rubino

… and to WorldSkills International 2022 Special Edition Medallion of Excellence recipient, Isabella Turrise Isabella Turrise

C U S T O M

C O R N E R

with Owen Webb

2022 Back in all its glory

Let the show begin.

WITH INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL BACK ON THE AGENDA, WE BRING YOU SEMA 2022 FROM LAS VEGAS, WITH SPECIAL COMMENTS FROM PERENNIAL ATTENDEES OWEN WEBB AND AARON SCHULENBURG. THE SHOW WAS AS SPECTACULAR AS EVER! There is no mistaking the buzz around Las Vegas during “SEMA Week”. Even before the doors of the Las Vegas Convention Center opened, there was that real sense of excitement as the

anticipation grew leading up to the biggest show since 2019.

SCRS executive director Aaron Schulenburg said that the SEMA Show is always an amazing event. However,

this year there was an extra spark of energy that everyone could feel throughout the show. “The industry found an amazing new home in the upper south hall, and it was buzzing

2022 Ridler winner '32 Chev coupe.

EV Mustang SUV with Borla active sound.

'56 Chev truck - Owen's favourite EV of the show.

RX7 with a V12 Zonda engine.

4 0 – C U S TO M C O R N E R

with business. The crowded aisles felt pre-pandemic, and exhibitors, buyers and speakers all made remarks about this feeling like one of their favourite years of all time.”

Once again, Owen made the trek to find out what has changed in the industry over the three-year hiatus.

One of the first things he noticed was the absence of some long-time SEMA participants. Ford, Chevrolet, Wheel Pro’s, Axalta and Sherwin Williams had all made strategic decisions not to attend, although the show still had a great atmosphere and a really good vibe over the full five days.

This year, there were also over 50 new exhibitors from all industry segments as the new West Hall was opened and filled with car care, off-road, and a full overland experience. Anyone who is “anyone” in the automotive industry was at SEMA – but as always, “the cars are the stars”. Muscle cars, custom cars, street cars, and some of the best designers and builders in the industry were strategically positioned throughout the complex.

The “Battle of the Builders” shootout is one of Owen’s favourite parts of SEMA. Builders submit their entries in the six months leading up to the event.

They are assessed by a judging panel that chooses 10 vehicles from each

attracting plenty of attention. There was no real overriding trend this year, but still plenty of grey pastel-coloured paint, satin and matt finishes and printed wraps from graphics and multicolour through to patina finishes.

Once again, vehicle electrification was a key feature, with a great selection of EV-related seminars, programs and activities designed to highlight the opportunities that this technology offers the automotive aftermarket. With hardly a Tesla in sight, many early vehicles were modified to full electric. SEMA Electrified led the charge, and, although they are still a small proportion of the car parc, electric vehicles clearly represent a rapidly growing market with huge potential.

Unlike Australia, the US has the suppliers and infrastructure to support these builds, and some interesting vehicles were on show. There were over 300 EVs displayed throughout the show, from a ’56 Chev pickup to Dave Kindig’s elite show CF1 Roadster.

Owen checked out the Borla stand.

Borla now has a program where you can retrofit your EV and give it a “normal” car sound. We heard it on a Mustang, which was just like the real thing going through the gears. There was even a Supercar on display, which

category (Hot Rod, Truck, Off Road and Young Gun). These Top 40 cars are judged on the floor at SEMA, with the winner from each category announced on the Thursday afternoon. The winners then drive onto a stage, and all the builders from the competition judge the overall winner. This year’s Young Gun was Josh Michels with his ’66 Chevrolet Corvette, and the overall winner was yet another incredible build from the Ring Brothers, Mike and Jim, with their Formula 1-inspired ’48 Chev pickup. Ring Brothers unveiled four cars this year, two of which made the Top 4 – what an effort!

Central Hall was still the performance booth and Hot Rod alley.

There were plenty of new outstanding builds displayed on these booths, with Meguiars having a top C10 Truck and the new build from comedian Kevin Hart with his Black Plymouth Roadrunner.

Mothers Polishers always have great cars, and this year was no exception, with the Ring Brothers ’48 Pickup and the current Ridler winner from Detroit.

Out front, there were hundreds of high lift trucks and race-inspired JDM style Supras, Toyota 86s, Skylines and so on. eBay Motors teamed up with Hoonigan to sponsor the drifting and “Burnyard”, which is always exciting, with driving skills, noise and smoke

The Ring Brothers' Bronco, which also made the Final 4 of Battle of the Builders.

The 3M media event.

The US$1 million GTR Skyline.

The Ring Brothers' F1-inspired ’48 Chev pickup.

The National Collision Repairer – 4 1

C U S T O M

had been in the making for over 10 years, with 350 engineers and scientists working on it. While this isn’t necessarily in our future, there is no doubt EVs will be an integral part of the industry, as will fuel cell electric vehicles powered by hydrogen.

Other SEMA highlights included a new advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) showcase where people could network with industry experts and learn how vehicle modifications impact ADAS functionality. It was also a great opportunity to see firsthand where a vehicle’s ADAS sensors are located, how they work, and how vehicle modifications impact them.

For the first time ever, Chip Foose provided the official art for the 2022 SEMA Show, and some of the automotive industry's premier artists also exhibited their creations in the SEMA Show Art Walk. What a great array of talent.

European and Japanese vehicles were well represented, with a GTR Skyline flown in from Japan. It had a full carbon fibre body, a new HKS engine, fabrication inside and out, and was definitely in Owen’s Top 5 vehicles at the show. The owner said he was happy to leave it in the US provided he got “around US$1 million”! There were also two RX7s, one with a V12 Zonda engine, the other highly engineered with the biggest turbo I’ve ever seen. These cars attracted so much attention at the event, but it’s not unusual for these owners to have millions of views and followers on all the socials, which is a huge part of the scene now.

After three days of looking at all the new cars and products, Owen made his way to the upper south hall and checked out the collision section. Most of the previous manufacturers and suppliers were there, with 3M, AkzoNobel, BASF, Mirka, the key SAPE brands Cellette and Gys, SATA, sia Abrasives, Snap On and Roberlo all doing great business with a great variety of booths and demonstration areas. Once again, the collision repair sector was well represented, attracting a lot of industry and public interest.

3M has always been a big drawcard at SEMA, and this year was no exception. The team presented

4 2 – C U S TO M C O R N E R

C O R N E R

3M’s Body Shop of the Future, highlighting that it is omnipresent throughout the entire repair process.

From tear down to refinishing, 3M has touchpoints at every stage, and, to reinforce the point, the company released the following: • The new 3M RepairStack Performance Solutions is revolutionising the connected body shop by layering material management, invoicing and analytics for greater shop performance and efficiency.

• Its new paint finishing system, 3M Perfect-It Random Orbital Polishing System, making swirl marks a thing of the past as technicians of all skill levels can get a show car shine with the new system.

• The 3M Performance Spray Gun delivers increased transfer efficiency, resulting in up to 26% less material waste.

The team at 3M was thrilled with the response to these three great products and systems that reinforce their market-leading position.

Repairer Driven Education SEMA would not be SEMA without education and training. The SCRS and their Repairer Driven Education program nailed it! There were over 23 seminars across the four days, plus the three great OEM Technology Summit sessions.

Schulenburg said: “The collision industry conference [CIC] meeting on Tuesday really set the pace for the

The halls were packed – yet again.

week, and we were thrilled to be able to share the results of our Blend Study (www.scrs.com/blendstudy.) It sparked interest and conversation throughout the week as attendees sought out the SCRS booth to discuss the study and to find out more about our recently launched healthcare program.”

In addition, the SCRS presented its highly anticipated showcase event, IDEAS Collide, the one-of-a-kind event featuring 10 fast-paced, thoughtprovoking presentations designed to stimulate ideas and challenge the status quo. Here are just a few presenters who drew the most attention.

Dave Gruskos, the president of Reliable Automotive Equipment Inc., touched on how to find the right people for your business against the perennial backdrop of talent shortage. He suggested expanding the search to other service-oriented businesses and focusing on the right attitude and approach, with the recognition that we can develop skills. Gruskos highlighted a growing list of businesses that have successfully hired employees into the collision industry by prioritising key attributes and traits that can be built upon. It certainly got people thinking.

Mike Anderson, CollisionAdvice.com president, pointed out that most, if not all, OEMs have safety inspections that

need to be performed when a vehicle is in a collision – whether the airbags deploy or not. He discussed these safety inspections, what is involved, and which components need to be inspected. He also illustrated how to educate consumers and insurers about why these inspections are a nonnegotiable item in a way that educates, not alienates, the stakeholders. Anderson made an impassioned plea to the claims and repair industries to place consumer safety at the forefront by performing critical steps to ensure safety.

Greg Peeters, the CEO of Car ADAS Solutions, stated that calibrations might well be one of the most critical elements of the modern repair process. He pointed out that while many repair facilities look for assistance on performing calibrations correctly, others wonder if there was a viable business opportunity opening in a dedicated calibration centre. Peeters discussed defining the opportunity and determining the return on investment in an in-house and stand-alone model. The sheer scope of the various considerations, based on OEM procedures and specifications, was a real eye-opener for many in the room.

Schulenburg summed it up: “The RDE sessions were packed, and we actually surpassed registrations from our best year ever by nearly 20%.

I think the industry is still feeling the

overwhelmingly positive experience, and I’m thrilled to say, ‘we are back!’ on the heels of what marks the largest trade show in the US for the year!”

In summary On the eve of this great event winding up, SEMA chairman James Lawrence and SEMA president and CEO Mike Spagnola announced a five-year plan to expand the SEMA Show into an “all-city” experience. Officially called SEMA Week, the expansion will create the most passionate and exciting automotive event in the world, and it will kick off in 2023 with new concepts, activities and events.

On the Friday night, the SEMA Show closed with the traditional SEMA Ignited, incorporating SEMA Cruise on the streets of Las Vegas and, once again, it was an awesome finale. The deep-throated rumble of the engines and the “intoxicating aroma” of burning fuel all seemed to hang in the Las Vegas air. SEMA Cruise, as always, exceeded all expectations.

5

Minutes with ...

Peter Peachey Capricorn

SEMA is well and truly back!

Photos compliments of Jack Rindfleish, Out There Productions.

Owen is a leading figure within the auto re-styling and vehicle modification industry and a Lifetime Achievement Award inductee. He is Technical and Training Manager at Concept Paints.

When did you join the industry? 1972 What was your first job in the industry?

Apprentice Mechanic What do you do now?

Capricorn Sales Manager QLD Northern Region What do you like about the industry?

Motor vehicles and meeting people associated with the industry.

What don’t you like about the industry?

Modern technology in the modern vehicle.

What music do you like?

50’s and 60’s, as well as country music Your Favourite Artist?

No one really stand out.

Your favourite food?

I like most foods.

Your favourite drink?

Coffee and Beer, separate of course Your hobbies?

Fishing, Camping, Yard work/ gardening Who in the world would you most like to meet?

I’m happy with whoever I meet.

The SCRS Team.

The National Collision Repairer – 4 3

I N D U S T R Y

T R A I N I N G

A N D

E V E N T S

proudly

The evolution of workplace safety Upon entering a collision repair work floor, it’s hard to miss the many signs and imagery notifying all personnel about the importance of safety. The industry has progressed over the years to place the welfare of the drivers, passengers and collision repair technicians in a priority position. The tools and equipment used when repairing vehicles, including repair processes and procedures, are no exception.

The automotive industry is driven by the implementation of technology in every new vehicle. The flow-on effect can be seen in the collision repair sector when a damaged vehicle is presented for repair. The tools and equipment used to repair a modern motor vehicle must also keep pace with the advancements in automotive design and construction.

Without this, it becomes increasingly difficult to perform a complete, safe and quality repair that will ultimately benefit the consumer.

Such advancements in the equipment and processes used during collision repair have ensured the wellbeing of technicians both during the repair itself and when off duty. Items such as personal protective equipment (PPE) worn when sanding a vehicle or mixing paint have assisted in negating long-term effects on a technician’s hands and skin, combating further risk to health, including the potential of respiratory inflammation or disease and, in more serious cases, organ failure.

As the automotive business strives for environmental sustainability in an ever-challenging industry, the growth of cordless power tools available to collision repair businesses may assist in reducing power generation by reducing the size of large-scale air compressors that were once required to run air tooling. Airpowered tooling still has a place

within this industry; however, now there is an alternative that may offer process and procedural improvements that were once not even considered.

There are several appealing advantages in switching to batterypowered tools in a facility or on a job site, with the underpinning mission to improve workplace safety. From reducing tripping hazards to lessening the impact of demanding labour on the human body, cordless power tools are here to help technicians work smarter and safer.

Beyond reducing worker fatigue by being easier to carry and less jarring for the body, cordless power tools deliver convenience and thoughtful ergonomics in many other ways. In some cases, battery-powered cordless tools deliver 50% more power than a conventional tool, even while running cooler, presenting a lower risk of burns and other injuries.

But their dedication to ergonomics doesn’t end there. Stroll down the cordless drill aisle at a local home improvement warehouse and an assortment of appealing colours, thoughtfully moulded rubber grips and, in general, an obvious appreciation for tradespeople and the real-world applications of these tools can be found.

When technicians find themselves bending, crouching, reaching into corners and generally putting their body in weird positions to get the job done just right, they will find benefit in having a compact, lightweight

4 4 – INDUSTRY T R A I N I N G A N D E V E N T S

cordless tool to reach for that fits nicely in the hand and helps get the work done, even in uncomfortable or inconvenient surroundings.

A partner and supplier to I-CAR Australia, Milwaukee Tools Australia has demonstrated its commitment to safety for technicians in both the mechanical and collision repair space with its release of cordless power tools. Using battery-powered equipment reduces the risk of injury from dangling air hoses and power cords, and technicians can efficiently perform and complete repairs.

The I-CAR Training Academy in Melbourne houses a range of products that students use during the hands-on components of their courses, allowing technicians to familiarise themselves with different tools and how they have been designed to keep them safe.

Some I-CAR courses require technicians to work on vehicle body frames and within welding booths, these setups ensure that all students are trained to perform complete, safe, and quality repairs.

Explore I-CAR Australia courses, engage with instructors and interact with equipment and tool suppliers such as Milwaukee Tools Australia at I-CAR Australia’s Open Day on 3 February 2023.

For more information, visit: https://i-car.com.au/events/

brought to you by

Calendar of events

Course Spotlight

KNOWING WHAT’S COMING UP AND WHEN IT’S ON

Automechanika Shanghai 20 to 23 December 2022 – Shanghai Summernats 5 to 8 January 2023 – Canberra Motorvation 3 to 5 February 2023 – Perth

Training contacts 3M Australia George Di Scala Tel: 0400 382 649 AkzoNobel Paul Horvath Tel: (03) 9644 1711

PPG Australia Pty Ltd www.ppgrefinish.com.au/training VIC/TAS: (03) 8586 0000 NSW/ACT:(02) 9854 6600 QLD/NT: (07) 3823 8000 SA: 0412 832 919 WA: 0437 902 125

Axalta Coating Systems Product training Axalta services Tel: 1800 292 582

Protec Tel: 1800 076 466

BASF Australia Ltd James Green Tel: 0402 110 378

Saint Gobain Customer Service - 1300 007 650 Michelle Morgan - 0425 516 894

Dents R Us Training Academy Laury Chibnall Tel: 0438 383 555

SAPE Automotive Training Academy Tel: (02) 9772 9000

iBodyshop E: seminars@ibodyshop.com Tel: 1300 361 541

sia Abrasives Tel: 1300 742 123

I-CAR Australia Brisbane Office Admin Tel: (07) 3219 9088

Thatcham-Escribe www.thatchamescribe.com.au 1300 769 348

STORKAWD Pty Ltd (Fusor and Farecla) Tel: (03) 9560 6060

U-POL Tel: 0400 366 483

Mipa Australia Pty Ltd Tel: (03) 9739 8800

Sherwin Williams Tel: (02) 4368 4054

Honda HR-V 2022 Collision Repair Overview Honda HR-V 2022 Collision Repair is a one-hour online course that provides an overview of vehicle design and construction materials.

Course material and videos describe unique aspects of service parts and procedures on this vehicle as well as considerations for sectioning, attachment methods, and specific part removal and installation for repair on the Honda HR-V. Course Code VT610E01 Course Format Online training with post-test I-CAR Credit Hours 1 Hour I-CAR Points 0.25 Pro Level Role Relevancy Structural Technician Non-structural Technician Assessor Estimator

The National Collision Repairer – 4 5

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Set the perfect tone with SATA Precision application and a first-class sound experience come together thanks to the special promotional offer of a SATA Bluetooth Speaker by JBL with every SATAjet X 5500 purchased.

With SATA’s latest promotional offer, you will have everything you need to always set just the right tone.

In the spray booth, the Germanengineered craftsmanship and performance of the premium SATAjet X 5500 will help you set the perfect colour tone, while everywhere else, you can enjoy the high-quality sound tones from the

SATA Bluetooth Speaker by respected audio equipment brand JBL. Compact and stylish, the SATA Speaker offers up to five hours of continuous JBL sound quality.

Simply Bluetooth to your mobile device and listen to your favourite tune wherever you like. Thanks to an integrated noise-cancelling microphone, the SATA Speaker also operates as a speaker phone with clear call quality. A waterproof housing makes it the perfect companion, even at the pool or the beach.

The SATA Bluetooth Speaker is

a strictly limited-edition offer. While stocks last, you can get yours with the purchase of a SATAjet X 5500 spray gun – in HVLP or RP technology and DIGITAL and non-digital versions – from a participating SATA distributor.

finish and is used as a one-step product on white gel coats and as the first stage of a two-part compounding process where higher gloss and lower swirl is required.

• Very effective on dark GRP surfaces.

• Can also be used on painted surfaces to restore colour.

2. Shake the bottle well before use.

3. Apply a small amount of product to the applicator.

4. Spread over the surface and polish (speed depends on the applicator used).

5. Work in small areas at a time, keeping the applicator flat to the surface.

6. Wipe clean and repeat if necessary.

Farécla is pleased to announce that, after painstaking customer research and consequent product development, a number of changes have been made to the labelling of the Farécla Profile range that offer significantly enhanced clarity and information to assist everyone.

Farécla eliminates P1200 Saint-Gobain provides application solutions from Norton and Farécla for manufacturing, repairing, maintaining and renovating composite, metal and timber boats.

Farécla Profile 350 Premium Liquid GRP (glass reinforced plastics) Fast Medium Cut Liquid Compound is a high-performance, water-based cutting compound that removes P1200 or finer sanding marks from production gel coats and painted finishes and is the perfect solution for restoring oxidised and weathered gel coat surfaces.

Great on dark colours, Profile 350 Premium Liquid delivers a high gloss

Top technical tip If needed, before polishing, sand up to: • P1200 or finer (paint or lacquer) • P1500 or finer (aerospace paint or lacquer) • P1000 or finer (polyester resin or gelcoat) • P1000 or finer (vinylester resin or gelcoat) • P1500 or finer (Epoxy resin or gelcoat) 1. Ensure the surface is clean, dry and cool to the touch.

For more information and process steps, please visit www.Farecla.com

3M introduces a new paint finishing system at SEMA Making swirl marks a thing of the past Technicians of all skill levels can get a show car shine with the new 3M Perfect-It Random Orbital Polishing System, the company’s newest paint finishing solution for automotive repair. Any paint finishing process aims to restore panels to their proper state – free of defects and with a highquality finish. This professional grade set of tools, pads, and polishes from 3M can help any technician achieve sleek, consistent results.

With decades of innovation under 3M’s belt, the company is aiming to change the mindset of how technicians approach paint finishing by introducing a random orbital polisher into the mix.

Typically associated with detailing but

4 6 – P R O D U C T S H OW C A S E

redesigned for the collision repair industry, the 3M Perfect-It Random Orbital Polishing System can help eliminate the dreaded swirl marks and other defects common with traditional rotary tools.

Time and again, there can be a fear factor at play, which makes avoiding burn-through and costly rework imperative. While this system may feel different in the technician’s hands, they can be confident that their paint job won’t be ruined in the final stages of repair.

“Every technician wants their final finish to look as if the car had never been touched,” said Jenny Thill, global marketing manager at 3M. “The polishing tool is easy to use along with our liquids and pads that make up the

complete system. We’re excited to bring this swirl-free solution to the collision and detailing markets.”

Achieving a premium finish has never been easier. 3M is redefining the way paint finishing is done for better and safer repairs.

To learn more about the 3M PerfectIt Random Orbital Polishing System, visit: www.3mcollision.com

Car-O-Tronic Vision2 X3 The latest high-tech, precision electronic measuring system for upper and lower body measuring, now with support for EVO anchoring and holding.

Experience Car-O-Tronic Vision2 X3 – the fastest, most accurate and easiest to use electronic measuring system on the market today! The sensor-equipped measuring slide with a built-in versatile remote control and protective rubber “bumper-zones” delivers real-time data three times per second to the advanced and easy-to-use software.

Photo-based, and backed up by Car-O-Data, the world’s most comprehensive vehicle database, it allows you to accurately and quickly target measuring points.

Measuring slide with remote control The measuring slide communicates wirelessly with the CarO-Tronic Vision2 X3 software: no cords or cables to get in your way! The built-in, versatile remote control lets the operator manage the entire measuring process without having to be at the computer. The unit is easy to use, with one button to enter commands such as automatic measurement of the entire vehicle and another select button to browse through monitor menus. The entire repair process can be documented in pictures with text and e-mail files to customers and insurance companies directly from within the software.

The Car-O-Tronic Vision2 X3 measuring system also offers multimedia instructions and support for our EVO 1-2-3 anchoring and holding systems.

Measuring is fast and easy with Car-O-Tronic Vision2 X3 • Register the work order and enter car make and model.

• Conduct measurement aided by the unique ASP function (automatic search point). Advanced automation allows the system to always select the right point.

• Print out the results and you are done!

Features and benefits • Compatible with nearly any frame system • Wireless – no targets, sensors or lasers • Real-time data delivered three times/second • Precise measurements for all under- and upper-body locations • Photo-based images offer easy identification • Compatible with the Car-O-Data measurement database • Contains information on EVO 1-2-3 anchoring and holding systems • InfoCentre for online software and data updates, news, support and interactive training • Import/export of work order • Suspension check diagnosis For more information, contact www.car-o-liner.com.au or call Car-O-Liner Australia on Tel: (02) 4271 6287.

Car-O-Data • Vehicle database with measurement info on over 16,000 vehicles • First year included • Available by subscription • Updates continuously via Internet.

Sagola Black is back!

Axalta Coating Systems, the Sagola importer for Australia, is pleased to release the new Sagola “Black Racing” Limited Edition 3300 GTO spray gun.

This latest 3300 black model features a new soft flow air valve, boasting maximum softness in the trigger. It works like lightning, with high transfer efficiency and application speed.

What’s more, there is the option of either a TECH Aircap for basecoat and clearcoat finishes or an EVO Aircap for wet-onwet primers, both available in 1.3 and 1.4 nozzle sizes.

The 3300 GTO is a high-quality spray gun without the high price tag – a truly universal spray gun that can be used with a range of products due to its flexibility with aircaps and nozzle choice. Designed for the best response at any pressure, you can’t go wrong with the 3300 GTO. Just like its big brother, the Xtreme 4600, the 3300 GTO uses “metal to metal” technology, so there is no need to worry about gaskets or O-rings. Beautifully finished and with a 3-year warranty, it is easy and light to handle and boasts outstanding value at less than $500 trade price!

All Sagola products are tested with paint material (not just water or solvent) to check the spray pattern and fan before leaving the factory in Spain.

They come with a 3-year warranty.

To see the Black Racing limited edition gun in action, scan the QR code or order yours today from your local Axalta distributor.

Visit www.axalta.com.au/sagola or call 1800 292 582 for more information.

The National Collision Repairer – 4 7

P R O D U C T

S H O W C A S E

Need for speed?

Choose the Milwaukee M12 FUEL 3/8" High Speed Ratchet The Milwaukee M12 FUEL 3/8" High Speed Ratchet (M12FHIR38-0) puts the fast in fastening. With 450 RPM and up to 47 Nm of maximum torque, this ratchet is perfect for low-torque, high-speed applications.

As with all M12 FUEL solutions, the M12 FUEL 3/8" High Speed Ratchet features three exclusive Milwaukee technologies. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor supports the tool in delivering powerful and long-lasting performance.

REDLINK PLUS Intelligence hardware and software help to prevent damage to the tool and battery caused by overloading and overheating. You can get the most out of the tool when paired with M12 REDLITHIUM-ION batteries (not included) that are forward- and backward-compatible with more than 90 solutions.

With a compact head size and a recessed shift knob, the M12 FUEL 3/8" High Speed Ratchet provides access to small spaces and hard-toreach areas. It has a balanced, ergonomic design that supports use in tight spaces. A steel yoke housing and premium rubber over-mould deliver superior durability to withstand harsh workshop and garage environments.

The variable speed metal trigger gives you complete control of the tool.

The ratchets can also be used manually without engaging the motor, allowing you to install and remove loose or snug-tight fasteners that require more torque.

The M12 FUEL 3/8" High Speed Ratchet offers pneumatic performance without the hassle of hoses, cords or routine tool maintenance. It’s the perfect addition to any automotive technician’s tool chest. It will help you stay productive throughout the day

when working on interior cabs, engine swaps, suspension and handling spark plugs, breaks and hose clamps.

For more information on the M12 FUEL 3/8" High Speed Ratchet, visit: www.milwaukeetool.com.au/, call Tel: 1300 645 928, or book a visit with a Milwaukee Transportation Specialist to try their full range of ratchets for yourself.

• The portability function allows the user’s JOBS and machine configuration to be saved/loaded/ transported using a USB stick.

Ergonomic • Reinforced wheels for stability and manoeuvrability.

• Support for a gas bottle – 1 x 4m3 (20L).

• Hatch and storage space for accessories.

For further information, contact the team at SAPE on (02) 9772 9097 or visit sapegroup.com.au

GYS E1 AUTO from SAPE The E1 AUTO from GYS is a 200 amp single-phase synergic MIG/MAG welding machine specially designed for body shops. Equipped with an intuitive full-colour interface, it delivers excellent welding performance on steel and aluminium, even on thin materials.

Its synergies also include brazing with CuSi3 and CuAl8 wires.

MIG/MAG welding • Steel and stainless steel wire: Ø 0.6 to 1.0 mm.

• Aluminium wire: Ø 0.8 to 1.2 mm (Ø 1.2 mm, non-intensive welding).

• CuSi and CuAl wire: Ø 0.8 and 1.0mm.

Intelligent • Specific synergies: steel, AlSi, AlMg, CuSi3, CuAl8, CrNi. • After entering three pieces of data (Easy mode) – wire diameter, material/gas combination and workpiece thickness – the product automatically determines the optimal welding conditions.

• New simplified 3.5" HMI designed for body shops.

• Full machine and synergy updates via USB stick.

• Storage of up to 200 welding programs (Jobs) for recurring tasks.

4 8 – P R O D U C T S H OW C A S E

Integrated wire feeder • 4 roller feed motor for smooth and efficient feeding.

• Compatible with spool sizes Ø 200 / 300 mm.

• European torch connection for quick torch fitting/removal.

Two display modes • Easy – simplified display mode suitable for most users while still producing excellent weld quality.

• 2 welding modes: Weld and Stitch Welding.

• 4 settings: welding material (synergies), wire diameter, thickness, and arc length.

Expert-full display mode suitable for experienced welders • Welding modes: Synergic or Manual.

• Trigger behaviour: 2T and 4T. • Tack modes: Spot and Spot-Delay.

• Selection of the main settings to be displayed on the screen.

• Full weld cycle adjustment: Arc length, Choke, Pre-gas, etc.

L I F E T I M E

A C H I E V E M E N T

The National Collision Repairer Lifetime Achievement ‘Honour Roll’

The National Collision Repairer Lifetime Achievement Awards, which began in 2007, was created to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of the men and women who have contributed to the collision repair industry over and above their “day job” and which extends beyond the scope of their local area.

There are now 54 inductees on the Honour Roll, of

which there are five international recipients, from the New Zealand, United States and Sweden, who have all not only contributed to the development of the industry in their own countries, but also left an indelible mark on the Australian collision repair landscape.

These are the change-agents of our industry who have shaped, built, developed, influenced and, more recently, disrupted the industry, in many cases in the face of adversity and against staunch opposition. This award recognises the recipients’ perseverance, contribution and experience, which in total amounts to 1,900 years!

Importantly, we continue to attract sponsorship that is a veritable who’s who of the collision repair industry, many of whom have been with us since the inaugural awards.

So, once again, we take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the individuals and their organisations who support this initiative that truly does “honour the past”.

Richard Nathan 2007 ....................................

John Zulian 2012 ....................................

Garry Clear 2018 ....................................

David Weatherall

2007 ....................................

Tom Vukelic

2013 ....................................

Cec Simpson 2018 ....................................

Terry Flanagan OAM

2008 ....................................

Robin Taylor

2013 ....................................

Michael Wilkinson 2018 ....................................

Marshall Duncan 2008 ....................................

Ray McMartin 2013 ....................................

Mark Czvitkovits 2019 ....................................

Graham Winter

2008 ....................................

Colin Edwards

2013 ....................................

Martin Stone AM 2019 ....................................

Jeff Hendler (Int)

2008 ....................................

Ian Wilkinson

2014 ....................................

Julie Wadley 2019 ....................................

Max Chanter 2009 ....................................

Julie Thomas 2014 ....................................

Walter Zuber (Int) 2019 ....................................

John Howes

2009 ....................................

Brian Johnson

2014 ....................................

Brad Franklin 2020 ....................................

Robert Renwick (Int)

2009 ....................................

Terry Feehan

2014 ....................................

Jim Vais 2020 ....................................

David Newton-Ross

2009 ....................................

Owen Webb OAM

2015 ....................................

Jeff Williams 2020 ....................................

Wayne Phipps 2010 ....................................

Phil Nixon 2015 ....................................

Steve Economidis 2021 ....................................

Richard Pratt

2010 ....................................

Trevor Parkes

2015 ....................................

Garry Maher 2021 ....................................

Bob Rees

2010 ....................................

Tony Warrener OAM

2016 ....................................

Peter McMahon 2021 ....................................

Lance Weiss 2011 ....................................

Brenton Abbott 2016 ....................................

Rob Mildenhall 2021 ....................................

Mark Brady

2011 ....................................

Michael Killen

2017 ....................................

Tony Cafasso 2022 ....................................

Don Wait OAM

Carl Tinsley

2011 ....................................

2017 ....................................

Michelle Morgan 2022 ....................................

Tony Farrugia 2012 ....................................

Per Madsen (Int) 2017 ....................................

Peter Ruggeri 2022 ....................................

Bob Christie

Rex Crowther (Int)

Darren Wales

2012

2017

2022

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