AAAM JUNE 2026

KEEPING YOU INFORMED

CALENDAR 2026

Automechanika Frankfurt

Frankfurt Exhibition Grounds

8 – 12 September 2026

www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

AAPEX 2026

The Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum

Las Vegas

3 – 5 November 2026 www.aapexshow.com

SEMA Show 2026

Las Vegas Convention Center 3 – 6 November 2026 www.semashow.com

Automechanika Dubai

Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC)

10 – 12 November 2026 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Automechanika Shanghai

National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai)

2 – 5 December 2026 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

PRI Show Indianapolis, IN

10 – 12 December 2026 www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow

Wayne Bryant Chairman

AJ & M Automotive

31 High Street Terang VIC 3264

NEW MEMBERS

Rapid Tune Chelsea Heights

7/227-239 Wells Road Chelsea Heights VIC 3196

E: ajmautomotivecentre@outlook.com

Bob Pattison

42 Warburton Road Canterbury VIC 3126

E: robert.pattison1952@gmail.com

Bosch Car Service Footscray (M-Tech Suspension Pty Ltd)

13 Mephan Street Footscray VIC 3011

E: danny@wgbw.com.au

Bosch Car Service Kedron

2/19 Kitchener Road Kedron QLD 4031

E: luke@retailerschoice.com.au

Dynamco

Unit 1/288 Victoria Rd Malaga WA 6090

E: sales@dynamco.com.au

EV Dealer Group Pty Ltd

402 Hoxton Park Road Prestons NSW 2170

E: philip.wong@evdealergroup-byd.com.au

Gatton Spare Parts

59 Railway Street Gatton QLD 4343

E: gsparts@bigpond.net.au

ICS Group

PO Box 782 Albany WA 6331

E: bbraun@icsgroup.com.au

Ino8 Pty Ltd

1210 Ghazeepore Road Bellbrae VIC 3228

E: info@ino8.com

Kalamunda Performance PO Box 16 Walliston DC WA 6925

E: frahnenterprises@outlook.com.au

Mazi Auto Parts

14/14 Longford Road Epping VIC 3076 E: maziautoparts@outlook.com

Nasta Auto-Tech Consulting

6 Restful Street Taigum QLD 4018 E: nastaautotech.steven@gmail.com

Quantium Technology Co., Ltd.

4th Floor, Building 3, Jicheng Industrial Park, No. 88 Luotianba

Huzhou ZJ 313012 China

E: hikaru@quantiumchain.com

CHAIRMAN

Wayne Bryant (VIC) Chief Merchandise & Growth Officer, GPC Asia Pacific Ph: 03 9566 5444

E: chelseaheights@rapidtune.com.au

Rapid Tune East Brisbane

59 Wellington Road East Brisbane QLD 4169

E: eastbrisbane@rapidtune.com.au

Rapid Tune Fawkner 1076 Sydney Road Fawkner VIC 3060 E: fawkner@rapidtune.com.au

Rapid Tune Morayfield E: morayfield@rapidtune.com.au

Rapid Tune Stafford 52 Webster Road Stafford QLD 4053 E: stafford@rapidtune.com.au

Rapid Tune Strathpine 10 Dixon Street Strathpine QLD 4500 E: strathpine@rapidtune.com.au

Rapid Tune Virginia E: virginia@rapidtune.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Berwick (Mini Fabrication & Mechanical)

1/36 Yilen Close Beresfield NSW 2322 E: shop@minifabmech.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Muswellbrook (Tradecore Industries Muswellbrook) 10 Carramere Road Muswellbrook NSW 2333 E: Procurement@tci.net.au

Repco Authorised Service Rutherford (The Hunter Valley Mechanical Company) E: admin@hvmech.com.au

Southern Cross Auto Spares

31 Conkey Drive Cootamundra NSW 2590 E: parts@scmobilemechanics.com.au

Steve Broad

100 Arthur Street Woody Point QLD 4019

E: steve-broad@bigpond.com

TP Kyneton

34 Beauchamp Street Kyneton VIC 3444 E: lauren@tpsunbury.com.au

Ultra Tune Lara 1/164 McClelland Avenue Lara VIC 3212 E: lara@ultratune.com.au

AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DEPUTY CHAIRMAN

Craig Baills (QLD)

Highfields Mechanical Ph: 07 4696 7116

DIRECTORS

Michael Carnemolla (NSW) 313 Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 02 9713 9476

Mark Pedder (VIC) Pedders Suspension Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9706 3500

SECRETARY

Dale Durden (QLD) CoolDrive Auto Parts Ph: 03 9896 7300

Adele Coswello (NSW) mycar Tyre and Auto www.mycar.com.au

Peter Rogers Repco Authorised Service repcoservice.com

TREASURER

Colette Kirby (VIC) Logicar Australia Ph: 1300 322 782

Glareh Kayhoor (VIC) HELLA Australia hella.com.au

Graeme Whickman AMOTIV amotiv.com

RECORD-BREAKING EXPO A POWERFUL DEMONSTRATION OF THE STRENGTH OF OUR INDUSTRY

Now that the doors have closed on the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo, I’ve had the chance to reflect on what was an extraordinary few days for our industry

Quite simply, this was the biggest and most successful Expo our industry has ever seen.

With 15,000 attendees across three massive days in Melbourne, the 2026 event became the largest automotive trade event ever held in the Southern Hemisphere, smashing the previous attendance record by nearly 2,000 visitors.

But beyond the record numbers, what stood out most was the energy, optimism, and confidence across the entire industry.

The show floor was buzzing from the moment the doors opened. Exhibitor displays and stands were on another level entirely, the aisles were packed, training sessions were overflowing, and everywhere you looked people were connecting, learning, doing business, and investing in their future.

This Expo reinforced something I strongly believe – our industry is healthy, resilient and evolving rapidly.

Businesses are investing. Workshops are adapting. Technicians are actively seeking out new skills and knowledge. Suppliers and manufacturers are continuing to innovate at an incredible pace. Most importantly, the industry understands that keeping up to date is no longer optional.

Vehicle technology is changing faster than ever before. Software-driven systems, diagnostics, ADAS, electrification and increasingly complex repair processes are reshaping workshops and the broader automotive landscape. More business owners and technicians are recognising the need to continually learn, invest and evolve – and that is exactly why this Expo matters.

The Expo has become far more than a trade show. It is now a critical platform for industry learning, collaboration, networking, and business growth. It is where workshop owners come to understand what’s next, where technicians sharpen their skills,

and where businesses position themselves for the future.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the 2026 event was seeing thousands of technicians, mechanical, and collision repair professionals engaging so strongly with the training programs and feature zones across both Expos.

Across the Technical Training Program, Business Management Training Program, Collision Repair Training Program, ADAS Training Zone, Diagnostics Discovery Zone, I-CAR Welding Zone and Lowbake Spray Booth, attendees embraced the opportunity to learn practical skills they could immediately apply in the workshop.

Importantly, the training was built for engagement, helping attendees improve capability, efficiency, and profitability in their businesses.

We were also proud to welcome internationally recognised trainers and experts from around the world to Melbourne, alongside many of Australia’s leading industry voices. On behalf of the AAAA, thank you to every trainer and presenter who contributed to the success of the event.

The exhibitor investment this year was extraordinary. Across more than 400 leading brands, the scale and quality of the stands, live demonstrations, technology showcases, and product launches created a truly world-class event experience. The volume and diversity of products, equipment, technology and services on display highlighted just how innovative and dynamic our industry has become.

Beyond the products and technology, what I will remember most is the camaraderie.

The Expo brought the entire industry together in a way very few events can, with workshop owners, technicians, collision repairers, manufacturers, suppliers, educators, and industry leaders connecting face-to-face to share ideas and strengthen relationships.

Thousands of valuable business connections were made across the three days, culminating in the hugely successful Friday afternoon networking event.

It was also fantastic to see the return of Flying Spanners, showcasing the next generation of automotive talent in a fast-paced technical challenge environment.

The Expo also provided an important opportunity to celebrate excellence across the automotive aftermarket through the Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast and the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet. I was incredibly proud to see so many outstanding

individuals, businesses and innovators recognised for their contribution to the industry and the important role they are playing in shaping its future.

On a personal note, I was deeply humbled and honoured to receive recognition for 20 years of service to the automotive aftermarket industry through the AAAA. I sincerely thank everyone for their support, friendship, and contribution over this journey. It was a very special moment that I will never forget.

I would also like to acknowledge the official opening of the Expo by Victorian Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Defence Industry, Skills and TAFE, Colin Brooks MP, whose support reflected the growing recognition of the importance of Australia’s aftermarket industry.

Finally, I wish to thank every exhibitor, sponsor, trainer, speaker, partner, and attendee who contributed to making this event such a success. An event of this calibre couldn’t come to life without the AAAA Board, the AAAA team, who worked tirelessly toward the event’s success, and the MSE Event Group team for delivering an event our entire industry can be proud of – thank you.

The 2026 Expo was more than a successful event. It was a powerful demonstration of the confidence, professionalism and momentum that exists across the automotive aftermarket and collision repair industries.

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

CONNECTION THROUGH CHANGE

Capricorn Group CEO, Brad Gannon, reflects on AAAExpo

It was a pleasure to join the AAAA’s Stuart Charity, GPC Group’s Rob Cameron, and BAPCOR Group’s Chris Wilesmith on a panel at the recent Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) to discuss the aftermarket’s next advantage.

Brad Gannon Group CEO

Society Ltd

A clear theme emerged. As work shifts from mechanical repair to diagnostics-led service, the industry must adapt how it invests, charges for work, and builds its workforce.

I encourage all workshops to think about their people, their processes, and how they are capturing the value of their work.

Workshops should properly charge for their labour and wisely invest in their business only as needed. How prepared is your business for the shift that is already underway?

The recent AAAExpo was another great example of the industry coming together to share perspectives, challenge thinking, and focus on what matters for the future of the Aftermarket.

A huge congratulations to the whole team at the AAAA, we look forward to the next one!

As the financial year comes to a close, many businesses are balancing planning, performance, and ongoing pressure.

Global uncertainty continues to influence local conditions, reinforcing the importance of staying connected and focused on practical ways to operate efficiently and sustainably.

Capricorn plays an important role in this, offering members access to a trusted network of suppliers and support to help navigate day-today challenges.

Visit our website to find out more.

The strength of the automotive aftermarket lies in its people, and the way the industry works together to adapt, build capability and navigate change.

For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop

AAAA WELCOMES NEXT STEP IN RIGHT TO REPAIR REFORM

The Association looks forward to working closely with Treasury, government and industry stakeholders on the next steps for Right to Repair reform

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has welcomed the Albanese Government’s release of a discussion paper proposing to expand Australia’s Right to Repair framework to agricultural machinery and deliver targeted improvements to the Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme (MVIS).

AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said the release of the paper was a significant and practical next step in strengthening competition, consumer choice and productivity across repair markets.

“AAAA congratulates the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, for his continued leadership on Right to Repair and competition reform,” Stuart said.

“This is a very welcome development. It shows the Government understands that Right to Repair is not an abstract policy debate – it is about keeping vehicles, machinery, businesses and communities moving.

“For motorists, farmers and small businesses, timely and affordable access to repair is critical. Whether it is a family car, a delivery vehicle or a tractor during harvest, people need the freedom to choose where they get their vehicle or machinery repaired.”

The discussion paper proposes to extend Right to Repair principles to agricultural machinery, while also addressing a number of practical issues identified through the review of the MVIS.

The proposals include reforms to improve access to electronic logbook information, recognise the critical role of intermediaries such as data aggregators and tool manufacturers, improve transparency around scheme pricing, reduce regulatory burdens around safety information, and streamline access to security-related repair information.

The paper also proposes improvements to scheme governance, reporting and enforcement arrangements.

Stuart said the detail of the paper was encouraging because it focused on the real-world barriers that determine whether independent repairers can genuinely compete.

“The success of Right to Repair depends on practical access,” Stuart said.

“It is not enough for repair information to exist somewhere in theory. Independent repairers need timely, affordable and workable access through

the tools, systems and workflows they actually use every day.

“That is why proposals dealing with electronic logbooks, intermediaries, scheme pricing, safety information and security information are so important. These are the issues that determine whether the scheme works on the workshop floor.”

The Government has noted that the existing motor vehicle scheme has been broadly successful, supporting growth in independent repair workshops, greater consumer choice and a $2.4 billion expansion in annual sector turnover.

The Government is now seeking feedback on extending the framework to agricultural machinery and improving the operation of the existing motor vehicle scheme.

Stuart said AAAA strongly supported the Government’s recognition that Right to Repair reforms should continue to evolve as vehicles, machinery and repair markets become more digital and data-driven.

“Modern repair is increasingly shaped by access to data, software, diagnostic tools, electronic service histories and security-related information,” Stuart said.

“If independent repairers are locked out of those systems, consumers lose choice and competition is weakened. The proposals in this paper go directly to those practical competition issues.”

Stuart said AAAA would engage constructively through the consultation process.

“AAAA has long championed the right of consumers to choose who repairs and services their vehicle,” Stuart said.

“We welcome this discussion paper and congratulate the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP and the Government for taking the next step.

“These reforms are about fairness, competition and productivity. They are about backing skilled independent repairers, many of them small businesses, who keep Australians moving every day.

“We look forward to working closely with Treasury, government and industry stakeholders to ensure the next stage of Right to Repair reform is practical, effective and delivers real benefits for consumers, farmers, repairers and the broader economy.”

For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au

A MOMENT FOR WOMEN, AND A MILESTONE FOR THE INDUSTRY

There are moments in industry life that feel bigger than the event itself. For me, one of those moments happened at this year’s Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo

Yes, the show floor was full. Yes, the stands looked fantastic. Yes, the technology, training, equipment, and innovation on display reminded us once again why this industry is so capable, resilient and forward-looking.

But there was something else happening too.

Women were not just present at Expo. Women were visible. Women were connected. Women were being celebrated. And, importantly, women were being integrated into the mainstream story of the automotive aftermarket. That matters.

Of course, women have always been part of Expo. They have always been part of our businesses, our workshops, our supply chains, our customer service teams, our management teams, and our industry networks.

But historically, the presence of women in automotive has too often been treated as something adjacent to the “real” industry story. This year felt different.

The AAAAWomen networking drinks were not a side conversation. They were part of the fabric of Expo. They created a space for women and allies to meet, connect, encourage each other, and recognise that our industry is changing – not because someone has imposed change on us, but because our own people are stepping forward and building it.

Around 100 people came together for the networking drinks, and the energy in the room was genuinely wonderful. It was warm, generous, and practical.

There was none of the stiffness that can sometimes come with formal industry events. It felt like people were ready for this. Ready to connect. Ready to be visible. Ready to support one another. And that is really what AAAAWomen is about.

AAAAWomen is not about separating women from the industry. It is about ensuring women are properly included in it. It is about visibility, leadership, and connection. It is about creating

pathways for women who are already working in automotive, whether they are on the tools, in parts, in management, in sales, in manufacturing, in distribution, in technical roles or in family businesses.

It is also about making sure women entering the industry can see a future for themselves here. Because you cannot be what you cannot see.

The aftermarket has always been an industry built on relationships, trust, capability, and practical problem-solving. Those are exactly the strengths that make AAAAWomen so important. It gives people a way to find each other, learn from each other, and build confidence across the sector. It also sends a very clear message: women are not guests in this industry. We are part of its future. That message was reinforced beautifully through the Women at the Wheel Award, and I want to warmly congratulate Chelsea Lawson, the 2026 award winner.

Chelsea represents so much of what is exciting about the next generation of automotive talent. As an auto technician, she brings technical skill, credibility and enthusiasm to the trade. She has also been a visible and positive advocate for the value of coming together as an industry – for training, networking, learning and sharing ideas. That combination matters.

Awards like Women at the Wheel are not simply about recognising individual achievement, although Chelsea absolutely deserves that recognition. They are also about showing the broader industry what leadership looks like in many different forms. Sometimes leadership is standing on a stage. Sometimes it is mentoring a colleague. Sometimes it is showing up, doing excellent work and encouraging others to believe they belong here too. Chelsea’s recognition is a reminder that the future of automotive will be shaped by people with skill, curiosity, generosity, and courage. And that future will include more women – not as an exception, but as an expectation.

This is why the Expo moment felt so important. The automotive aftermarket is facing enormous change. New technology, new skills, new customer expectations and new regulatory pressures are reshaping the way we work. If we are serious about building a strong future, then we need every part of our talent pool engaged.

We need women in workshops. We need women in leadership. We need women in technical training, product development, manufacturing, sales, business ownership, policy and advocacy. We need

Lesley Yates, AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy info@aaaa.com.au

women who are new to the industry, women who have been quietly holding businesses together for decades, and women who are ready to lead the next chapter.

And we need the industry to see that inclusion is not a “nice to have.” It is part of workforce development. It is part of business resilience. It is part of attracting talent. It is part of keeping good people in our sector.

That is why AAAAWomen matters. It gives structure and momentum to something that has been building for a long time.

The networking drinks at Expo were a milestone, but they were not the destination. They were a signal. A signal that the industry is ready for more connection, more visibility and more deliberate support for women across the aftermarket.

And if the response at Expo is anything to go by, we are only just getting started.

To everyone who came along, thank you. To the AAAAWomen Steering Group, thank you for shaping something meaningful. And to Chelsea Lawson, congratulations on being named the 2026 Women at the Wheel Award winner.

It was a proud moment for Chelsea, a proud moment for AAAAWomen, and a proud moment for the industry.

To learn more about AAAAWomen, please email Lesley Yates on advocacy@aaaa.com.au

$5,250 PRIZE FOR REDARC YOUNG TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR

REDARC have announced an exciting prize package for the winner of the 2026 award

Leading Australian electronic equipment manufacturer REDARC is offering a $5,250 prize for the 2026 REDARC Young Technician of the Year Award, to be announced at Wire & Gas in Brisbane.

The winner will receive $5,250 retail value of REDARC items of their choosing, while also receiving a fully funded ticket to Wire & Gas – to be staged by VASA and The Automotive Technician in Brisbane across 31 July – 2 August – including accommodation and travel to and from the event.

The award (for which nominations are now closed) is open to VASA members (or those working in VASA member businesses) under 30 years of age, to celebrate their contributions in the automotive industry.

Wire & Gas is organised by VASA, Australasia’s peak body for auto air-conditioning, electrical and thermal management specialists, in partnership with The Automotive Technician.

Those behind the event say it is renowned for attracting the best brains in the business, delivering knowledge and skills to navigate the rapid technological change facing the sector.

REDARC has more than 45 years’ experience in the research, design, and manufacturing of power and safety solutions for 4x4s, RVs and trailers, and operates across the globe including in Australia, New Zealand, North America, and Europe.

VASA President Brett Meads said the award reflected VASA’s and REDARC’s shared belief in nurturing and empowering the next generation of automotive professionals, and fostering innovation, leadership and excellence.

DAYCO’S CRAIG FROHOCK NAMED AS ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR FINALIST

Regional winners will be announced in June before being considered by the national judges Dayco Inc Chief Executive Officer, Craig Frohock, was recently named as a finalist for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Michigan and Northwest Ohio Award by Ernst & Young LLP (EY US).

Now in its 41st year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates the bold leaders who disrupt markets through the world’s most groundbreaking companies, revolutionising industries and uplifting communities.

The program honors entrepreneurs whose innovations drive economic growth and help shape the future of business.

An independent panel of judges selected Craig Frohock among 34 finalists representing 31 companies based on their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, company growth and lasting impact in building long-term value.

“Being named a finalist for the Entrepreneur of The Year 2026 Michigan and Northwest Ohio award is a great honour,” Craig said.

“For me, this recognition reflects not only a personal journey, but above all the passion, commitment, and purpose that drive our company every day.

“Our mission has always been to deliver innovative

products and services to the market that move the world forward – creating long term value through innovation, integrity, and strong partnerships, and this distinction reinforces our belief that doing business the right way truly matters.

“I am deeply grateful to our customers, partners, and all our stakeholders for their continued trust, as well as to the Dayco team, whose dedication and entrepreneurial spirit make achievements like this possible.”

Regional award winners will be announced on June 17 during a special celebration in Detroit and will become lifetime members of an esteemed community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni from around the world.

The winners will then be considered by the national judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum.

Founded in 1905, Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacture, and distribution of essential engine drive systems and aftermarket solutions for automotive, truck, construction, agriculture, and industrial applications.

With more than 120 years of engineering heritage, Dayco says it has built a strong reputation for

REDARC Managing Director Anthony Kittel said his company’s promotion of the industry through this award helped young people to see there’s a career path, and it recognised their great efforts and the knowledge and experience they had learned.

The 2024 inaugural winner, Dion Carle from Voltaic Auto Electrical in Perth, said it was not only an honour to win but also a great opportunity to learn from industry experts at Wire & Gas. Tickets and accommodation for Wire & Gas 2026 can be booked at www.wireandgas.com

delivering reliable, efficient, and high performance drive systems that help customers worldwide meet the most demanding application requirements. Deep technical expertise and a continuous commitment to innovation enable the company to deliver advanced system solutions tailored to the evolving needs of global markets.

Today, Dayco operates in more than 30 locations across 20 countries and employs over 1,900 associates worldwide.

Under CEO Craig Frohock’s leadership, the company says it has achieved key milestones by reorganising its operations to focus on the core aftermarket and belt business to accelerate growth in both the Aftermarket and OE markets.

To learn more about Dayco, visit www.dayco.com

TERRAIN TAMER LAUNCHES NEW TVC

The latest TVC takes viewers from Finland to the Aussie outback

As Terrain Tamer continues to strengthen its global footprint, the iconic Australian 4WD parts brand has launched a brand-new television commercial.

The new TVC takes viewers from the frozen landscapes of Finland back to the unmistakable red dirt of the Australian outback.

Following on from last year’s much-loved “Perfecto” campaign filmed in Chile, the latest TVC heads to the snowy region of Juuka in Finland, showcasing yet another environment where Terrain Tamer products are put to the test in extreme conditions.

Featuring local stockist Timo, the ad highlights the company’s growing international presence while reinforcing the durability and reliability that Terrain Tamer’s 4WD Parts have become known for worldwide.

Set amongst icy roads, snow-covered forests and harsh winter terrain, the campaign demonstrates that no matter the climate or conditions, Terrain Tamer’s fortified 4WD parts are designed to perform. Yet despite the global backdrop, the campaign always finds its way home, returning to the vast

landscapes and rugged beauty of Australia that inspired the brand from the very beginning.

The new campaign will reach audiences across Australia and beyond.

Both the 30-second and 15-second versions will air from May through to September during AFL and NRL broadcasts across stations such as Kayo, Foxtel, Channel 7, Imparja, and WIN.

The commercial will also feature during Rugby broadcasts throughout Papua New Guinea, Fiji, and New Zealand, further expanding the brand’s reach across key international markets.

In addition to television broadcasts, the campaign will also appear across YouTube and Facebook globally, ensuring fans of the brand and four-wheel drive enthusiasts around the world can experience the latest Terrain Tamer adventure.

Terrain Tamer says the campaign reflects its continued investment in storytelling that resonates with its audience – celebrating not only the capability of its products, but also the relationships, environments and communities that make up the global Terrain Tamer network.

From the scorching heat of the Australian outback to the frozen roads of Finland, Terrain Tamer’s latest TVC is a celebration of adventure, endurance and international connection.

Terrain Tamer states it proves once again that wherever the road leads, Terrain Tamer is built to handle it.

With more than 55 years of experience in researching, developing, testing and perfecting solutions for 4WD operators, Terrain Tamer has built a reputation for producing high-quality 4WD parts.

Its catalogue now includes more than 60,000 parts, almost all of which are designed to meet or exceed original equipment (OE) standards. For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com

AUSTRALIA’S FIRST FEMALE GARAGE OWNER HONOURED IN LANDMARK MELBOURNE TRIBUTE

VACC backs Alice Anderson Public Art Project with $100,000 donation

The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has announced a $100,000 donation to support the Alice Anderson Public Art Project, recognising one of Australia’s earliest automotive trailblazers and reinforcing the industry’s commitment to championing women in the automotive sector.

The contribution will support the creation of a life-sized bronze statue in Kew, celebrating Alice Anderson’s legacy as Australia’s first female motor garage owner and a pioneer who trained and employed women in the automotive sector at a time when opportunities were scarce.

VACC Chief Executive Officer, Peter Jones, said the donation reflects the strong alignment between the Chamber’s purpose and the values embodied by Alice Anderson.

“She was not only an innovator and entrepreneur, but a champion for women in the automotive industry – creating opportunities, building skills, and challenging what was possible. That legacy continues to resonate strongly with our work today,” Peter said.

“Supporting initiatives like this is about more than history, it is about recognising the people

who have shaped our industry and inspiring the communities we serve.

“We are proud to stand alongside The Alice Anderson Memorial Project and help bring this important piece of history to life.”

Founded in 1919, Alice’s all-women motor garage in Kew broke new ground, employing and training women as mechanics, chauffeurs and drivers – an extraordinary achievement that continues to inspire in what remains a male-dominated industry.

The project is being delivered in a partnership between The Alice Anderson Memorial Project association and the City of Boroondara, which has committed funding toward both the statue and associated site works.

“This generous contribution from VACC is a powerful endorsement from the automotive industry itself,” the Alice Anderson Memorial Project Co-Founder, Samantha Lovrich, said.

“This project has been driven by a passionate team of volunteers all committed to ensuring Alice Anderson’s legacy is celebrated by way of a statue in the place where she lived and worked. Support like this brings us significantly closer to making that vision a reality.”

Mayor of the City of Boroondara,

said the project is an important cultural and community milestone.

“Alice Anderson was a true pioneer, and this statue will commemorate her life and impact here in Boroondara,” Cr Gault said.

“This project not only honours a woman who led an extraordinary and inspiring life but also helps address the under-representation of women in public monuments, ensuring their contributions are visible and celebrated in our shared history.”

For more information, visit www.vacc.com.au or www.thealiceandersonmemorialproject.au

NAPD ACQUIRES SPECO THOMAS

The acquisition, excluding VHT, strengthens NAPD’s product range and market presence

National Auto Parts Depot (NAPD) recently announced the acquisition of Speco Thomas (Speco), a respected and long-standing brand within the automotive aftermarket industry.

Managing Director Damian Michel expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to continue building on Speco’s strong legacy.

“Speco has earned an excellent reputation over many years, and we are committed to honouring that history while supporting the brand’s next chapter under the NAPD umbrella,” Damian said.

Speco Director Brendan Jones shared his confidence in the transition.

“We are pleased that we are able to pass on the Speco business and trademark to Damian and the team at NAPD,” Brendan said.

“We believe they are the right partner to continue to build on our legacy for years to come.”

The acquisition is a strategic step for National Auto Parts Depot, with Speco’s product offering seen as highly complementary to NAPD’s existing range.

The addition of Speco Meter gauges and its extensive wheel nut product lines will broaden NAPD’s market reach and enhance value for customers across Australia.

The Speco product range is now available for orders and resumed supply to all existing customers. All invoicing and account management has also now transitioned to the NAPD business. An integration plan is already underway, with an anticipated timeline of approximately six months (from March 2026) to bring all operations fully under the NAPD banner.

Throughout this period, both companies say they are committed to ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruption to customers and suppliers.

For more information, visit www.naparts.com.au

AMR 2026 CLOSES SUCCESSFULLY WITH A ROADMAP FOR INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Industry trends were highlighted through an expanded showcase and varied fringe events

The 74th edition of Auto Maintenance and Repair Expo (AMR) concluded at the Capital International Exhibition and Convention Center (CIECC) on 15 April 2026.

With a core purpose of leveraging its legacy within the industry to advance a sustainable future, the three-day show delivered a platform combining trade, information exchange, industry services and talent development.

Through its comprehensive coverage and extensive fringe programme, organisers say the show addressed evolving industry needs on the path of innovation, creating a platform that encourages dialogue and exchange for a more integrated value chain spanning from OEMs to aftermarket service centres and maintenance shops.

Across the show, 49,634 visits were recorded from 68 countries and regions – representing a 19 percent increase – with the top ten overseas visiting countries and regions (in descending order) being Russia, South Korea, Brazil, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Mongolia, India, Kazakhstan and Mexico. AMR also attracted professional visitor delegations from a total of 58 industry associations.

These visitors were able to connect with 1,385 exhibitors – a 20 percent increase – across 80,000sqm of exhibition space, while also being treated to 49 fringe programme events.

Organisers state the show also reached an even wider audience by featuring its highlights and exhibits through livestreams by partnering with some mainstream and trade media outlets in China, reportedly garnering over three million views as of 16 April.

This edition of AMR converged the latest products and solutions from sectors like Diagnostics and Repair, a core sector of the show which saw exhibitor numbers increase by more than 30

percent; Body and Paint; Car Wash and Care; Tyres and Wheels; Parts and Components; and more. AMR also expanded two special zones to bring forward the latest developments: the AMR Training Workshop Zone addressed emerging topics in the transition to intelligent technologies, electrification and digitalisation through product demos; while the Commercial Vehicle and Road Transport Equipment Zone was highly praised as it brought together leading OEMs and exhibitors to present innovations across the value chain, creating a hub to explore the future of smart road transportation. The 49 concurrent events covered commercial vehicles and road transport equipment, advanced maintenance and repair solutions, and talent competitions, creating a platform for exchange across the industry that organisers state transcended both brands and borders.

Notably, AMR’s flagship event, the Automotive Aftermarket Conference, held its eighth instalment on 12 April, bringing together specialists and senior executives from leading companies to explore topics like AI-driven innovation and opportunities in emerging markets, helping companies identify new paths for growth.

There were also three competitions: the third Automobile Paint Finishing Vocational Skills Competition, Automobile Wrapping Film Creative Skills Competition 2026, and the second Automotive Maintenance Case Competition Grand Finals and Automotive Maintenance Digital Exchange Forum.

The Auto Maintenance and Repair Expo (AMR) is co-organised by China Automotive Maintenance Equipment Industry Association (CAMEIA), China Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association (CAMRA), Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd and China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd (Sinomachint).

The next edition of AMR will be held in 2027, with details to be announced in due course.

For more information, visit www.amr-china.cn or email amr@china.messefrankfurt.com

AUTOMOTIVE WORKFORCE REPORT REINFORCES NEED FOR PRACTICAL, COMMON-SENSE EV LICENSING

The AAAA says AUSMASA’s Workforce Insights Report 2026 has come at exactly the right moment

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) says the release of AUSMASA’s Workforce Insights Report 2026 reinforces the need for practical, risk-based approaches to electric vehicle skills and licensing, at a critical time for the future automotive workforce.

The report highlights the major transition underway across the automotive sector, with electrification, digital diagnostics, advanced driver assistance systems and changing consumer expectations reshaping the skills needed in modern workshops.

AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, said the report provides a useful evidence base for policy discussions at a critical time for the industry.

“This report comes at exactly the right moment,” Lesley said.

“Safety matters, and technicians need the right skills to work on modern vehicles. But the policy response must be sensible, proportionate, and grounded in the actual tasks being performed in workshops.

“The worst outcome would be a blanket licensing model that treats all EV work as carrying the same level of risk.

“That would not improve safety – it would simply make it harder for skilled automotive technicians to do their work, harder for workshops to invest, and harder for consumers to access affordable service and repair.”

The report notes that EV licensing can either become a productivity enabler or a skills bottleneck, depending on how it is designed.

AAAA supports a nationally consistent, task-based approach that distinguishes routine service work and high-risk, high-voltage battery work.

“Most work on an EV does not involve direct contact with high-voltage components,” Lesley said.

“A technician changing tyres, servicing brakes, replacing suspension components or carrying out routine diagnostic tasks should not be captured by the same licensing requirements as someone opening or repairing a high-voltage battery pack.

“We need regulation that protects safety without locking capable technicians out of work they are already trained and competent to perform.”

Lesley said poorly designed licensing would disproportionately affect smaller independent workshops, where technicians often perform a broader range of tasks.

“Large businesses may have the scale to allocate EV work to specialist streams, but smaller workshops need practical pathways that reflect real workshop conditions,” Lesley said.

“If licensing is too broad or inconsistent across jurisdictions, it will create unnecessary costs, reduce repair capacity and undermine consumer choice.”

AAAA said the report also highlights the importance of Recognition of Prior Learning as part of the workforce solution.

“There is a lot of existing capability in this industry – we have experienced technicians, mature-age workers, skilled migrants, semi-skilled workers and people returning to the workforce who may already have valuable practical skills,” Lesley said.

“A better, more consistent approach to Recognition of Prior Learning would help bring those people through the system faster and more fairly.

“Apprenticeships remain essential, but they are not the only answer. The industry needs multiple entry points and flexible pathways if we are serious about building the workforce Australia needs.”

AAAA also welcomed the report’s focus on workforce participation, including the need to improve gender diversity across the automotive sector.

“Women remain under-represented in automotive, particularly in repair and maintenance,” Lesley said.

“That is not just a diversity issue – it is a workforce issue. At a time when the industry needs more skilled people, we cannot afford to overlook half the population.

“Improving pathways for women, supporting career changers, recognising existing skills and making technical roles more visible and accessible must all be part of the solution.”

Lesley said the transition to EVs and new vehicle technologies should be seen as an opportunity for

the aftermarket, provided policy settings support rather than restrict industry capability.

“The independent aftermarket has adapted to every major technology shift in the vehicle parc,” Lesley said.

“But we need governments to work with industry on practical, evidence-based policy that supports safety, productivity and consumer choice.

“The key message from this report is clear: the workforce system must keep pace with changing vehicle technology.

“That means common-sense EV licensing, better recognition of existing skills, more inclusive workforce pathways and regulation that reflects how modern workshops actually operate.”

AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said governments must ensure new licensing frameworks support both safety and industry capability.

“Other governments should examine this report closely and ensure their approaches are practical, proportionate and nationally consistent,” Stuart said.

“As the vehicle fleet changes, governments must work with industry to build skills and maintain safe repair pathways — not rush into regulatory models that may unintentionally make the problem worse.”

For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au

TAIPEI SUMMIT CHARTS DESTINY

The 13th Annual Forum for International Green and Smart Mobility has highlighted Asia-Pacific’s momentum around intelligent transport

Held as a flagship feature of the 360° Mobility Mega Shows in Taipei in April, the 13th Annual Forum for International Green and Smart Mobility, jointly staged with the 1st Asia-Pacific Road User Charging (RUC) Summit, brought together government leaders, transport agencies, and industry innovators from across the region.

While the broader show spotlighted Taiwan’s strength in EVs, connected systems, and nextgeneration components, the forum served as a policy and thought-leadership centre for the event, where mobility strategy, carbon governance, and the future of road-use funding took the stage.

With delegations from the United States, New Zealand, India, Japan, Thailand, Southeast Asia, and Taiwan, the summit reflected the Asia-Pacific region’s growing coordination on intelligent mobility and climate-aligned transport planning.

The forum’s agenda focused on the intertwined challenges of AI-enabled traffic management, decarbonisation, and sustainable infrastructure financing.

Keynote sessions included ITS America’s Bobby McCurdy outlining a measurement framework for reconstructing road-network value through carbon reduction, while Far EasTone’s Philip Tseng detailed how AI-driven ITS data can deliver verified emissions reductions, positioning road systems as measurable contributors to national climate goals.

As part of the 360° Mobility Mega Shows and supported by Taiwan’s strong mobility ecosystem, TAITRA says the summit reinforced the region’s collaborative trajectory toward cleaner, smarter, and financially resilient transport systems.

To learn more about the shows, visit www.taipeiampa.com.tw/en/

360° MOBILITY MEGA SHOWS DISPLAY

TAIWAN’S AUTO FUTURE

As Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine’s Dale Nugent discovered, Taiwan’s 360° Mobility Mega Shows highlight a rapidly evolving automotive ecosystem

The Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA)’s 2026 360° Mobility Mega Shows have underlined the rapid scale at which Taiwan’s position in the global automotive supply chain is shifting.

The April 14-17 event brought together Taipei AMPA, E-Mobility Taiwan, and Autotronics Taipei, attracting visitors from 90 countries and reinforcing Taiwan’s growing role in next-generation mobility.

According to event organisers, the 2026 event hosted more than 800 one-on-one procurement meetings, with follow-on business opportunities expected to exceed US$338 million, while providing important opportunities for collaboration. But beyond the numbers, TAITRA says the real story was the breadth of technology on display.

From hydrogen-powered buses and electric three-wheelers to AI-driven cockpit systems and advanced automotive electronics, the exhibition floor demonstrated how Taiwan is evolving from a traditional parts supplier into a key partner in software-defined vehicles.

As industry speakers noted, mobility is no longer simply about transportation: vehicles are becoming intelligent platforms which integrate connectivity, energy management, data, and user experience into a single ecosystem.

That shift, which has significant implications for the automotive aftermarket, was evident across the show’s themed zones, including AI CAR, Vehicle Connectivity, and Hydrogen Applications, each highlighting different elements of the future mobility landscape.

Taiwan’s long-established strength in components manufacturing remained a major drawcard, with companies such as Eagle Eyes, NHC Group, and Hushan Autoparts showcasing lighting, friction materials, and hardware solutions to global buyers. To learn more about the shows, visit www.taipeiampa.com.tw/en/

GLOBAL PARTNERS TAKE STAGE

International collaboration is emerging as a critical driver of automotive innovation, with supply chain partnerships taking centre stage in Taiwan recently

A key focus of the 2026 360° Mobility Mega Shows, organised by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), was the growing importance of global cooperation in shaping the future of mobility.

That message was reinforced during a keynote presentation from representatives of Canada’s Ontario region, which highlighted how integrated supply chains are becoming essential to industry growth.

Ontario’s automotive sector alone produces more than 1.3 million vehicles annually and is supported by over 700 parts suppliers, forming a highly developed manufacturing ecosystem.

But what makes the region particularly relevant to the future of mobility is its ability to combine traditional manufacturing with advanced technologies.

Significant investment – more than $46 billion in recent years – has been directed toward electric vehicle production and battery development, with the goal of creating a complete end-to-end EV supply chain.

According to TAITRA, Taiwan has a critical role in this network.

With strengths in semiconductors, electronics, and flexible manufacturing, the country is well positioned to support the development of softwaredefined vehicles and advanced mobility systems.

The organisation, through its initiatives such as the 360° Mobility Mega Shows, international forums, procurement programs and market exchange events, works to strengthen these connections by creating opportunities for collaboration between Taiwanese companies and global industry players. Through its global engagement efforts, TAITRA seeks to give aftermarket businesses a direct pathway to participate in that evolution.

For more from the 360° Mobility Mega Shows, visit www.taipeiampa.com.tw/en/

CAPRICORN ANNOUNCES INTERIM TRADE REBATE

The rebate of up to $15.7m is designed to support members

Capricorn has announced an interim trade rebate of up to $15.7 million, to be issued to eligible Members as Capricorn Rewards Points, as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting Capricorn Members in times of need.

The interim rebate has been made in recognition of the pressures many small businesses have been experiencing across the automotive sector over the last few months.

Capricorn says it reflects its commitment to providing practical support where it can and when it matters.

The rebate will be allocated to eligible Member accounts in proportion to purchases made through Capricorn for the period 1 July 2025 to 31 March 2026.

Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, Brad Gannon, said the decision was guided by Capricorn’s cooperative values and its responsibility to support Members through all stages of the business lifecycle.

“We know many of our Members and Preferred Supplier partners are operating in a tough environment, managing rising costs and ongoing uncertainty,” Brad said.

“As a cooperative, we’re here to support our Members and Preferred Supplier partners.

“This interim trade rebate is one meaningful way we can help ease pressure and return value directly to our Members and help our broader Community.

“Our focus has always been on doing what’s right for Members. Our Trade Rebates are a way we reward our Members for being part of our Community, and by paying it now, we hope to provide some cost-of-living relief when they need it most.”

For more information, visit www.capricorn.coop

AAAA RESEARCH REVEALS THE CUSTOMER LOYALTY GAP HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT

Independent automotive workshops may be losing customers – not because the quality of their work is falling short, but because customers do not always see, understand or trust the value of the work being done

New research commissioned by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association and delivered by specialist research agency Fifth Quadrant, Car Owners’ Needs and Workshop Delivery Alignment 2026, reveals an opportunity for workshops to improve retention through communication, transparency, and post-service follow-up.

The project forms part of AAAA’s Market Intelligence Program. Fifth Quadrant worked with AAAA to examine what car owners value from their workshop experience, how workshops are delivering against those expectations, and where small changes in customer communication can affect loyalty.

The research found that six in ten Australian car owners are Committed customers, meaning they always use the same workshop or mechanic. A further 27 percent are Regulars, who mostly use the same workshop but may go elsewhere if their preferred provider is unavailable. The remaining 13 percent are Undecided – customers who shop around, use different workshops, or are still looking for their go-to provider.

For independent workshops, the Undecided group represents a recoverable opportunity. These customers are not necessarily lost to dealerships or competitors forever. In many cases, they are simply looking for a clearer, more reassuring experience.

Customers want to understand what was done, why it mattered, what needs to happen next and whether they can trust the advice they have been given. That is not a technical problem. It is a customer experience problem.

The report found that trust and reputation are the dominant drivers of workshop selection, while price is less decisive than many operators may believe. Seven in ten Australians say they are willing to pay more for a workshop they trust, and even Undecided customers require a significant discount before considering switching.

Customers do not leave simply because a cheaper option appears. They are more likely to leave when trust breaks down, communication is unclear, or they do not feel confident about what has happened to their car.

The research also highlights an ongoing challenge around warranty servicing. With 46 percent of car owners currently having a vehicle under warranty, many still incorrectly believe they must return to a franchised dealership to protect that warranty. This misconception is costing independent workshops work they are entitled to compete for. Workshops need to confidently explain that customers can choose where their car is serviced without automatically voiding their warranty, provided the work is done properly and in accordance with the required standards.

The research identifies three practical, lowcost behaviours that support retention: clear explanations at handover, proactive updates during the service, and a post-service check-in within 48 hours.

These are retention tools. Written quotes, service updates, photos, or videos where appropriate, clear explanations and consistent follow-up all help customers feel informed and reassured. They also make the quality of the workshop’s work more visible.

While overall satisfaction with workshop service is high, the loyalty gap widens at key human touchpoints, including booking, drop-off, pickup and post-service care. Customers are forming their view at the front counter, in the phone call, in the quote, in the explanation, and in whether anyone follows up afterwards.

The message from the research is positive. Workshops do not need to reinvent themselves. In many cases, the work is good, and the skill is already there. The opportunity is to make that value clearer to customers.

The full report is available exclusively to AAAA members as part of AAAA’s Market Intelligence Program.

For more information or to request a copy of the report, email info@aaaa.com.au

CASTROL BACKS GEARUP AUTO CAREERS

Australia’s automotive industry is facing one of its biggest long-term challenges: attracting and retaining the next generation of skilled technicians

As vehicle technology continues to evolve and experienced tradespeople retire from the workforce, the industry’s future depends on creating stronger pathways for young people to discover the opportunities that exist within automotive.

GearUP Auto Careers is an industry initiative powered by Mechanic.com.au, which has been designed to help connect students, career seekers, and future technicians with the automotive industry through engaging, real-world experiences, and industry collaboration.

Through careers expos, digital media, workshop engagement, industry storytelling, and hands-on activations, GearUP Auto Careers aims to reshape perceptions around automotive careers and showcase the modern opportunities available across the sector.

The program has already engaged thousands of young Australians across multiple states, giving them direct access to workshops, brands, technicians, apprentices, and industry leaders. Importantly, initiatives like GearUP are only possible through collaboration across the broader automotive industry.

Castrol says this is just part of the reason why it has been an active supporter of Mechanic.com.au and the GearUP Auto Careers initiative, helping to

drive industry engagement and awareness around the importance of investing in future talent.

“The automotive industry is one of the most dynamic industries in Australia, with an incredible variety of opportunities available,”

Castrol Automotive Marketing Manager, Jan Willink, said.

“But unfortunately, the skills shortage we’ve seen within automotive in Australia means more work is needed to showcase these opportunities to the next generation of professionals.”

As one of the industry’s most recognised lubricant brands, Castrol understands that the future of the automotive aftermarket relies not only on advancing vehicle technology but also on ensuring there is a strong pipeline of skilled people entering and staying within the trade.

“Castrol is proud to stand behind and support the amazing work being done by the Mechanic. com.au team through the GearUP Auto Careers initiative,” Jan said.

“The automotive industry has long been built on mentorship, shared knowledge and community. Programs like GearUP Auto Careers are designed to strengthen that connection between today’s industry and the next generation that will carry it forward.”

Castrol, one of the world’s leading lubricant

brands, has a proud heritage of innovation and fuelling the dreams of pioneers.

It says its passion for performance, combined with a philosophy of working in partnership, has enabled Castrol to develop lubricants, coolants and greases that have been at the heart of numerous technological feats on land, air, sea and in space for over 125 years.

Castrol serves customers and consumers in the automotive, marine, industrial and energy sectors. Its branded products are recognised globally for innovation and high performance through its commitment to premium quality and cutting-edge technology.

To learn more about GearUP Auto Careers, visit www.gearup.careers

For more from Castrol, visit www.castrol.com.au

REPCO A FINALIST FOR MAJOR RETAILER OF THE YEAR

Repco has been announced as a finalist in this year’s ARC Retail Awards

The Australian Retail Council (ARC) has nominated the leading automotive parts and accessories brand for its Major Retailer of the Year award, which recognises large-scale retailers that demonstrate innovation, growth and exceptional customer service at a national level.

The award is one of the ARC’s highest honours.

“This ARC Retail Awards nomination signals the dedication and customer focus more than 8,000 Repco team members deliver across Australia

every day,” Repco General Manager of Retail, Kathleen Long, said.

“Being named a finalist reflects the strength of our culture, the dedication of our people and our shared focus on performance and customer experience.”

The ARC’s Major Retailer of the Year award will be decided by the ARC’s 14-strong independent judging panel of retail leaders and industry experts.

The panel will crown the ARC’s Major Retailer of the Year according to criteria such as sustained innovation and growth, market leadership, strong brand reputation, effective use of technology, positive workplace culture, and exceptional customer experience.

The ARC will announce all category winners at the annual ARC Retail Awards Ceremony, to be held in Melbourne on 11 June 2026.

The annual ARC Retail Awards recognise excellence, innovation and leadership across Australia’s $444 billion retail sector.

These awards celebrate retailers, teams and individuals building and shaping the future of Australia’s retail industry with strong business performance, innovation, customer experience and positive workplace culture.

Australia’s retail sector employs more than 1.4 million people and stands as the country’s largest private-sector employer.

To learn more about Repco, visit www.repco.com.au

GMB IN OCEANIA: OE DNA, NO SHORTCUTS

With expanding infrastructure, comprehensive vehicle coverage and a deep OEM heritage, GMB is strengthening its position across the local aftermarket

In an Australian workshop, quality gets exposed fast. It shows up in the fit, in the finish, in how a part behaves under heat and load, and in whether the vehicle stays fixed once it leaves the bay.

GMB says it has a proven history and enviable reputation when it comes to quality product manufacturing.

With 22 sales and manufacturing plants across the globe and more than 10,000 products across key vehicle systems, the company says mechanics across the globe choose GMB with confidence and the knowledge that every single GMB product is made to the highest possible standards. Millions of vehicles rely on GMB products every single day.

GMB has seen significant growth since establishing its first distribution Centre in Sydney, New South Wales.

In February this year, the company opened a second distribution Centre in Sunshine, Victoria, helping to ensure that it can continue to meet the expectations of its growing and loyal customer base.

It says that investment reflects more than a logistics play, stating it signals long-term confidence in the region and a commitment to supplying mechanics with dependable, OE-quality parts across the categories they fit every day.

Built for Australian conditions

That matters in this market, because Australian conditions are hard on parts.

Long distances, hot weather, rough roads, city stop-start driving and hard-working utes all place stress on the same components day after day.

A part can look fine on the shelf, but the real test starts once it is fitted, torqued down, and sent back into service.

For mechanics, GMB says OE quality means something simple: the part fits properly, works properly, and keeps the job from coming back. The company says, “that is the standard, and it is the only one that counts.”

Growth backed by engineering and investment

GMB says its commitment to quality is also backed by continued investment in engineering and product development.

In 2024, the company established a new research Centre with an investment of $20 million.

According to GMB, that Centre will help ensure that quality remains the top priority alongside the

development of new products for OEM partners and the global aftermarket.

For workshops, that kind of investment matters because it supports consistency, durability, and confidence across the range.

A broad range with OE heritage thinking at the core

GMB explains that this same OE mindset runs through GMB’s core product categories.

The company’s current range includes Water Pumps, Fan Clutches, Electric Water Pumps, Drive and Timing Belts, Wheel Hub Assemblies, Wheel Bearings, Tensioners, Idlers and Pulleys, Steering and Suspension, and Universal Joints. It states coverage continues to expand each month as the company responds to local demand.

Cooling system confidence

In Australia, cooling-system reliability is everything. A quality pump needs stable bearing performance, proper sealing, and housing accuracy that holds up when temperatures climb.

GMB highlights the importance of high-grade steel, precision bearing race machining, roller bearings for high-load applications, and shaft seals designed for wear resistance and leakage prevention.

GMB’s message for the workshop is clear: a

cooling system repair should not be treated as a single-component job.

Coolant condition, contamination, the radiator, thermostat, and hoses all matter if long-term reliability is the goal, and GMB says that same attention to engineering carries across fan clutches and electric water pumps.

The company explains its fan clutch components are manufactured to match exact OEM specifications, while its electric water pumps use tight tolerance limits, high-quality internal materials and premiumgrade laminates to support consistent flow under demanding operating conditions.

In systems that leave very little room for error, GMB notes that “precision is not a luxury; it is the job.”

Belts, tensioners, complete timing kits, and individual timing components

Timing kits and drive systems tell the same story from a different angle.

The belt often gets the attention, but the quality of the repair depends on the entire system: tensioners, idlers, seals and, where required, the water pump.

GMB positions its drive belts around OE-spec tension cords, high-grade EPDM and HNBR rubber compounds, and resistance to temperature and chemicals; stating that its tensioners, idler pulleys and timing bearing components are built around precision and OE-level manufacturing standards. For workshops this matters because major service work is expected to last.

“A proper timing or accessory drive repair is not only about getting the engine running today; it is about making sure it stays that way,” says GMB.

Bearings, steering and suspension

Hubs and wheel bearings are another category that quickly reveals whether quality is really there.

Good sealing, grease retention, and tight tolerances contribute to quieter running, stronger durability and greater confidence once the vehicle is back on the road.

GMB says its wheel bearing and hub assemblies use high-grade GCR15 steel, specially formulated bearing grease, and triple- or quadruple-lip sealing technology for protection against dust, water and road debris.

The company also points to premium ABS sensor construction and extensive testing to ensure signal quality meets or exceeds OE requirements.

The same workshop logic applies to steering and suspension components.

Control arms, ball joints, rack ends, stabiliser links, steering joints, and tie rod ends all need to restore control and feel, not simply remove a noise.

GMB describes its steering and suspension line as engineered for OE fit and feel, with corrosionresistant finishes, strong load ratings and rigorous testing for articulation, strength, and fitment.

In a market where vehicles are expected to handle everything from rough roads to everyday commuting, GMB says that combination of product quality and correct installation makes all the difference.

Universal Joints

GMB has a comprehensive range of Universal Joints covering Automotive and Industrial applications, with a lookup online tool available with Universal Joint types and Measurements to help customers check availability when no specific application data is available.

You can find this lookup tool at www.gmb.net/ universal-joint-lookup-tool/

No shortcuts on reliability

Universal joints, fan clutches, electric water pumps, timing components, and wheel-end assemblies all reinforce the same point: quality is built in from the start.

Different categories may solve different problems, but the rule does not change.

If the engineering is right, the mechanic feels it during installation, and the driver feels it on the road.

GMB says that is the real value of OE DNA in the aftermarket, stating, “it is not about big claims on packaging. It is about parts engineered to fit, perform and last in the kind of conditions that quickly separate the good from the average.”

To learn more about GMB’s range of products, please contact your nearest authorised dealer on 1300 007 132 or email sales@gmb-oceania.com

For more information, visit www.gmb-oceania.com

REVOLUTIONARY REMOTE SERVICES

Repairify had people enthralled at AAAExpo and CRE with their remote services offering

At the co-located Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) and Collision Repair Expo (CRE) there was no shortage of ADAS equipment on display.

“Everywhere you looked there were calibration rigs, targets, scan tools and software platforms, all promising faster workflows, OEM capability, and the ability to keep up with modern vehicles,” Repairify Technical Sales Manager, Steve Cook, said.

“And to be fair, a lot of the equipment on show was impressive.

“On the Repairify Australia stand, we had our Repairify Digital ADAS rig set up and running across the three days.

“We spoke with existing customers, workshop owners, technicians, and people who had never dealt with Repairify Australia before.

“Some had seen our systems online. Others were simply curious about what made our setup different.”

Steve says what he particularly found interesting, was what kept coming up in conversation with the stand visitors across the three days.

“People understood ADAS. They understood calibration. They understood the growing complexity of modern vehicles. None of that was really new anymore,” Steve said.

“But what they didn’t expect was the role Repairify Remote Services played behind it all.

“Because while the Repairify Digital ADAS rig drew people onto the stand, the thing that genuinely

surprised them was the small device sitting quietly beside it: the asTech Link 2.0.

“That was the moment where conversations changed from ‘what does this rig do?’ to ‘hang on…you can actually do that remotely?’

“One bloke flat-out didn’t believe us at first. Not in a sceptical way, more in a ‘surely that is not possible’ way.

“Once we explained how the asTech Link worked, you could almost see the penny drop.”

The process itself is fairly straightforward, Steve explains.

“The workshop connects the asTech Link device to the vehicle through the OBD port, then connects through to the Repairify Remote Services team,” he says.

“From there, authorised Repairify Australia technicians can remotely access OEM-level systems where required.

“That includes secure gateway access, module programming, coding, ADAS calibration procedures, pre- and post-repair scans, and manufacturer-specific functions.

“The important part is this: the vehicle never leaves the workshop.

“The technician on the floor still controls the physical side of the repair and calibration setup.

“The Repairify Remote Services team handles the software layer, the access, and the OEM-level procedures that can otherwise stop a job dead in its tracks.

“That distinction really resonated with people at the show, because most collision repairers don’t want to outsource work. They want to finish it properly and keep it moving.

“And increasingly, that’s the challenge.”

Modern vehicles are no longer just mechanical systems. ADAS modules, radar systems, cameras, steering angle sensors, and braking systems all operate together in sensor fusion.

Replacing a component, or in some cases simply removing and refitting a bumper or body panel, can trigger the need for calibration, programming, or secure gateway access.

“Modern vehicles are built around integrated electronic systems. ADAS modules communicate with radar modules, camera modules, steering angle sensors, braking system sensors and body control modules, all working together in sensor fusion,” Steve explains.

“That growing complexity is exactly why Repairify Remote Services struck such a chord at CRE2026 this year.

“People could immediately see the practical

value. Not theory. Not future-tech. Real workshop workflow.”

In fact, while the expo was running, the Repairify Australia Remote Services team coordinated with the European team on a live job involving a bricked Audi.

Between the teams, they were able to recover the vehicle remotely and restore communication without the vehicle needing to leave the workshop.

“That’s the part that seemed to land hardest with repairers,” Steve reflects.

“Not the technology itself, but the idea that a workshop no longer has to hit a wall just because a vehicle needs OEM-level access or specialist programming to finish the job.”

At Riverland Collision Centre, that shift has already

had a major impact.

“We were struggling to keep complex diagnostic jobs in-house,” Riverland Collision Centre Assistant Manager, Jake Beaumont, said.

“Repairify’s Remote Services changed everything – our turnaround times are faster, we have cut outsourcing costs, and our technicians are more confident than ever. It is a game changer.

“That sentiment came up repeatedly across the three days at CRE. Not because workshops suddenly want to become software companies, but because they are trying to solve a very practical problem: how to keep increasingly complex jobs moving without unnecessary delays, transport, or outsourcing.

“And oddly enough, the thing helping solve that

problem isn’t always the biggest or flashiest piece of equipment on the stand.

“Sometimes it is the little box plugged into the OBD port.”

Key features and benefits of Repairify Remote Services:

• Reduce key-to-key times: forget waiting around for a subcontractor to perform repairs. Connect to remote services, complete the job and have your customers on the road sooner.

• Keep repairs in-house: no longer will you have to send the car back to the dealer to perform expensive repairs. Access the same tools the dealers do and keep the repair work in-house.

• Receive a clear report: once a remote service job has been completed, you receive a comprehensive report outlining the work completed.

• Remote repairs covered by Repairify’s insurance: need assistance? All remote services repairs are covered, giving you that extra peace of mind.

• Complete jobs same day and increase revenue by keeping vehicles in house: waiting for subcontractors is a thing of the past. Complete repairs faster and entirely inhouse and keep the profits for your hard work.

Integrating Repairify into your workshop requires no large upfront expense, with a subscription paid for on a month-to-month basis.

All updates to software and hardware throughout the subscription period are included, meaning you will have access to the latest technology at no additional cost.

All technical support, training, and licenses are also included, and if you encounter any difficulties completing a local scan, you can call Repairify and the team will assist you to complete the scan.

To find out more about Repairify Remote Services and the asTech Link 2.0, contact Repairify Australia on 1300 489 252 or hi@repairify.com.au or visit www.repairify.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au

BENDIX TARGETS HIGH VOLUME SELLERS

With latest brake pad range expansion

Bendix has continued to grow its disc brake pad range, with new variants released for high volume sellers from Mitsubishi, BYD, and GWM.

Mitsubishi Eclipse

For the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross SUV, Bendix has launched new front options from its General CT pad range, featuring proven compounds that deliver reliable and secure stopping performance, coupled with a smooth and consistent pedal feel.

Other qualities of these pads include noise and vibration absorbing shims for added driver and passenger comfort, and Bendix’s Blue Titanium Stripe technology, which provides superior stopping power ‘out of the box’ without bedding in.

BYD and GWM

Up and coming Chinese car brands are continuing to build their presence in Australia and New Zealand, and Bendix is working diligently to offer braking solutions for these vehicles.

In December, front General CT disc brake pads were launched for the Sealion 6 (2023 models) and for the GWM Tank 500 (also 2023 model), and owners can now choose front pad options from both the 4WD/SUV and Heavy Duty product ranges.

The 4WD/SUV range is specifically formulated for 4WD and SUV use – both on and off road – and Bendix says it provides excellent low noise and dust performance as well as reduced brake fade at higher temperatures.

These pads also feature an exclusive insulation layer for cooler braking and longer life, helping to reduce running costs.

This ‘insulayer’ lies between the backing plate and friction material, assisting the adhesion of friction material to the backing plate and minimising heat transfer.

For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au

SACHS CLUTCHES

Available as individual components, or as practical installation kits for simplified assembly

As the link between the engine and transmission, the clutch is one of the most durable wear parts in a vehicle, and there are many factors which can result in a clutch defect.

Clutch replacement can often be a demanding and time-consuming process as it requires the transmission to be separated from the engine.

ZF Aftermarket explains that its SACHS clutches are available as individual components, or as practical installation kits for simplified assembly, providing all relevant parts required for a complete clutch replacement.

It includes a pressure plate, clutch disc, and release bearing, as well as special grease for ease of assembly, ensuring that the clutch can be replaced safely, effectively and quickly.

SACHS clutch kits are available in various combinations, with dual-mass flywheel and the XTend pressure plate with automatic wear compensation, plus a kit with a concentric slave cylinder.

ZF says it ensures great convenience, reliability, and a long service life from its SACHS clutches, all of which are manufactured with the highest quality materials, using state-of-the-art technology and processes.

It states this allows SACHS clutches to deliver a long service life and high thermal load capacity.

The SACHS clutch catalogue numbers over 1,500 components, including clutch covers and discs, flywheels and clutch release systems for various applications in passenger cars, as well as light and heavy commercial vehicles, buses, agricultural and construction vehicles.

Clutch installation tips from ZF Aftermarket

Before replacing the entire clutch unit, ZF Aftermarket advises workshops to always check the surrounding components in the event of malfunctions, including the clutch actuation and the seals of the engine, flywheel and transmission.

The clutch disc, also known as the drive plate, is subjected to the greatest load, because the clutch’s mode of operation results in mechanical abrasion.

For this reason, the clutch disc must have high wear and temperature resistance.

Before installation, workshops should double check the condition of the clutch packaging and the new part, as they could have been damaged during transport, or because of improper handling.

To be completely certain of the condition of the part, workshops should make sure that the lateral run-out of the disc does not exceed the limit value of 0.5 millimetres. If it does, this can be corrected using a straightening fork.

When installing the clutch disc, workshop technicians should make sure it is in the right position as incorrect installation can result in damage to the disc itself, its hub spline, release lever, or even to the transmission.

Fitting instructions can usually be found on the component side. If no instructions can be found, compare the new part with the old one before installation.

The new clutch disc must be precisely centered to prevent damage to the hub spline.

There is a tolerance range of only a few hundredths of a millimetre between the transmission input shaft and the hub spline.

Even small inaccuracies during insertion of the transmission input shaft can prevent the mobility later required for disengaging the clutch.

The hub spline must slide onto the transmission shaft without resistance.

ZF Aftermarket recommends greasing the hub spline with SACHS high-performance grease as its viscous consistency and temperature resistance means it adheres to the spline during operation without spreading.

In order to prevent clutch shudder when the clutch is later disengaged, excess grease must always be removed, and care must be taken to keep the clutch linings absolutely clean.

For further information on SACHS clutches available through ZF Aftermarket, please visit www.zf.com/au

ARNOTT TALKS POST-INSTALLATION CALIBRATION

Installed does not equal finished, warns Arnott

Replacing air suspension components is more than just installing parts, it is about restoring a vehicle’s intended ride quality.

Getting it right the first time makes the difference between a job well done and a costly comeback. Not all air suspension systems are created equal, and each manufacturer has its own approach to achieving optimal ride comfort, handling, and performance.

With the rise of increasingly complex adaptive systems, even a perfectly installed component, whether aftermarket or OE, does not mean the job is complete.

Post-installation calibration is a critical step in restoring the suspension system to proper operation.

Calibration ensures the vehicle maintains the correct ride height and enables the system to accurately interpret inputs from ride height sensors and other components.

This data is synced with the Electronic Control Module (ECU), enabling real-time system adjustments.

When done correctly, calibration helps preserve ride comfort, handling, and stability, while also preventing warning lights and false diagnostic trouble codes.

Arnott warns that skipping calibration can lead to uneven ride height, premature component wear, and persistent fault codes. And in some cases, the system may attempt to compensate, affecting overall performance.

While in these cases customer feedback is often unclear, for example, statements of “it doesn’t feel right,” Arnott says the result is the same: comebacks, additional labor, and reduced profitability for the workshop.

Arnott explains that even if a component is marketed as “plug and play,” calibration may still be required.

It recommends always consulting the manufacturer’s service information, noting that most adaptive suspension systems require recalibration.

This typically involves using a compatible scan tool and taking accurate ride height measurements at each corner of the vehicle. Following the correct steps is critical to ensuring proper system function.

For more information, visit www.arnottinc.com

COOLDRIVE EXPANDS BATTERY OFFERINGS

CoolDrive Auto Parts has recently introduced the VARTA automotive battery range

CoolDrive Auto Parts says the VARTA automotive battery range is globally renowned, providing workshops and automotive professionals with access to premium battery technology engineered in Germany.

Powered by Clarios, a global leader in advanced lowvoltage battery technologies, VARTA batteries are designed to deliver reliable performance, durability and efficiency across a wide range of modern vehicle applications, from standard conventional vehicles, through to Start-Stop systems and electric vehicles.

The VARTA products now available through CoolDrive include its Dynamic AGM, Dynamic EFB, and Dynamic SLI battery ranges, each engineered to meet specific vehicle energy demands while meeting OE manufacturer standards.

CoolDrive Auto Parts Product Development Manager, Ryan Smith, said the addition of VARTA strengthens CoolDrive’s ability to support the evolving requirements of the Australian vehicle parc.

“As vehicles continue to become more

technologically advanced, battery performance and reliability are more important than ever,” Ryan said.

“VARTA is one of the world’s most recognised premium battery brands, trusted by leading vehicle manufacturers globally, and CoolDrive is pleased to make this extensive range available to our customers through our branches and online.”

The VARTA Dynamic AGM range is designed for vehicles with high energy requirements, including advanced Start-Stop systems and electric vehicles.

Featuring “up to three times the cycle life of conventional batteries,” VARTA says the AGM range delivers superior durability and dependable performance for modern vehicle technology.

For vehicles equipped with entry-level Start-Stop systems and moderate electrical demands, the VARTA Dynamic EFB range offers enhanced flooded battery technology with improved charge acceptance and reportedly “up to twice the cycle life of conventional batteries.”

Completing the line-up is the Dynamic SLI range, a maintenance-free battery solution developed for conventional vehicles without Start-Stop systems.

Engineered for dependable everyday performance, the SLI range is said to combine long-lasting power with exceptional value.

CoolDrive Auto Parts further states that “VARTA automotive batteries continue to set industry benchmarks through innovations such as AGM technology and the patented PowerFrame grid design, which enhances durability and resistance while supporting vehicle fuel-saving functions.”

In announcing VARTA’s addition to its portfolio, CoolDrive Auto Parts stated that “as the preferred battery brand for many leading vehicle manufacturers globally,” VARTA batteries are fitted in seven out of ten vehicles equipped with AGM Start-Stop technology.

For further information on the VARTA automotive battery range now available through CoolDrive Auto Parts, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au

NWG BRINGS FULL RANGE TO AAAEXPO

AAAExpo presented a number of valuable opportunities to the ADAS and Windscreen company

For NWG, the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) was a highly successful opportunity to continue leading industry conversations around automotive glass, full ADAS calibration and diagnostics, OEM repair methods, and post-repair safety system verification.

“Our stand attracted strong engagement from across the industry, including the collision repair sector, mechanical repairers, insurance companies, equipment suppliers, technology providers, and both existing and emerging industry participants,” NWG Executive General Manager –ADAS, Rob Mildenhall, said.

“The conversations reflected a clear shift in the market. ADAS is no longer being treated as a future issue or an optional add-on.

“Industry participants are increasingly focused on how calibrations are identified, completed, documented and verified after repair.

“This aligns strongly with NWG’s position as an industry leader in championing OEM repair methods, complete calibration education and safer repair outcomes across Australia, with New Zealand on the horizon.”

A further highlight for NWG was reported as the Thursday panel discussion hosted by Lesley Yates, focused on “ADAS in the real world.”

“The discussion provided an important platform to move the conversation beyond theory and into

the practical challenges faced daily by repairers, insurers, suppliers and service providers,” Rob said.

“For NWG, the panel reinforced the message we continue to champion: ADAS calibration is not simply a technical step, but a critical part of safe and complete vehicle repair.”

At AAAExpo, NWG showcased its key service offering, including:

• Automotive glass repair and replacement: supporting customers and trade partners with professional glass services across a wide range of vehicles.

• Full ADAS calibration and diagnostics: providing static and dynamic calibration, camera and radar calibration, pre- and postrepair scanning, coding, module initialisation and diagnostic support.

• Safety system verification through Test Drive CoPilot: delivering a documented postrepair verification process to help confirm that vehicle safety systems are operating as intended before release.

• OEM licensed repair information through ALLDATA: championing the use of the only OEM licensed repair information platform available to the Australian aftermarket, helping repairers and the broader industry better understand why following OEM methods is essential.

BILSTEIN FOR MERCEDES-BENZ GLE AND GLS

The suspension specialist offers a complete shock absorber range for these popular SUVs

The Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS are seen quite often on Australian roads.

With their all-wheel drive, these SUVs manage challenging terrains with a smooth and comfortable driving experience for the occupants.

Due to their popularity among Australian drivers, these vehicles are also frequent visitors in Australian workshops.

Here, Bilstein says it has good news for the independent aftermarket, stating that “regardless of the exact suspension set-up, Bilstein has the right solution at hand for all GLE and GLS models: the W167, V167, C167 and X167 as well as the AMG versions.”

As Bilstein has developed the optional air suspension module in cooperation with MercedesBenz, the German-based supplier says it knows exactly the OE vehicle specifications and is therefore able to provide the same OE quality for the aftermarket replacement parts.

Bilstein offers the complete product range from the standard suspension system to the electronic dampers for the semi-active adaptive damping system as well as the advanced air suspension module.

One of the highlights of the stand was the dynamic ALLDATA presentation, which attracted significant attention from visitors and created valuable discussions around licensed OEM repair information, correct repair procedures and the importance of building repair decisions on trusted source data.

As Australia’s vehicle parc continues to become more complex, NWG says it remains committed to supporting the industry with automotive glass expertise, full ADAS calibration and diagnostics,

shock absorber in one single component, the installation is plug-and-play.

So, whether it is steel or air, Bilstein says the workshop benefits from the one-stop-shop solution it offers for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS models.

The Bilstein B4 air suspension module is

Further, Bilstein explains that its B4 air suspension module does not contain any reconditioned used parts; all components are newly manufactured and precisely matched to each other.

For more information, visit www.bilstein.com

NEW FROM AEROFLOW

A range of new products have been introduced to the market by Aeroflow

Since 2010, Aeroflow Performance Products has grown to design and manufacture close to 13,000 quality products. Amongst the latest releases are the following products.

Cast Iron Ford Late Model Windsor Bare Engine Block

Aeroflow Performance says its engine blocks are the ideal starting point for any street performance build that demands quality and precision at a reasonable price.

It states that its new heavy-duty cast iron engine blocks are a semi-finished bare engine block which requires very little machining to match internal components.

The brand-new aftermarket engine blocks are cast from premium high-strength Class 32B iron.

It features cast two-bolt main caps, and the extra thick standard deck height ensures a reliable head gasket seal as well as allowing the use of off the shelf standard components such as camshaft, timing chain, oil pump/pan and oil filter and so on.

Tyre Stagger Tape

Aeroflow tyre stagger tape is a specialised, thin, flexible tape measure used to accurately measure the circumference of tyres.

The 1/4-inch thin steel tape wraps smoothly around the tyre and at just over three meters long will fit a large variety of racing tyres. It features a thumb lock and magnetic back for easy storage.

Fuel Pump Push Rod Fits S/B Chev 283-350

When installing a new fuel pump, Aeroflow Performance says it is recommended to upgrade your stock push rod.

Aeroflow Performance says its heavy-duty push rods are larger in diameter than the OEM units, enabling the push rod to handle the added torque requirements of increased fuel pump pressure.

The Aeroflow fuel pump push rods are made from chrome moly 8740 for maximum strength and durability, and are coated in a black oxide finish for protection and long-lasting durability.

Solenoid Mounting Bracket

Easily mount your nitrous or fuel solenoid with this Aeroflow mounting bracket.

This bracket is manufactured from formed steel and zinc coated silver for durability.

Aeroflow Performance says this bracket will allow one solenoid to be bolted from the bottom and installed anywhere in the engine compartment.

Air

Filter Support Bracket

The Aeroflow air filter support bracket is designed for universal fitment.

The company says this bracket ensures a secure fit for pod filters or Aeroflow Performance’s closed cold intake systems within the engine bay. It provides stability and durability to help support a pod filter from the harsh vibrations in the engine bay.

This bracket setup is 280mm long that can be cut down and folded with multiple 8mm holes across the length and a width of 20mm.

For more information, visit www.aeroflowperformance.com

SMARTER DIAGNOSTICS HERALDED AT AAAEXPO

Logicar invites you to think beyond the scan with ThinkTool, which was celebrated as part of the Expo’s Innovation Awards

The diagnostic tool market has never been more competitive, but as the tools on the bench get smarter, the question shifts from what a tool can access, to how it helps the technician think.

Logicar says while most tools present the technician with data, the Thinkcar point of difference is that AI is built into the diagnostic workflow itself – not bolted on as a feature, but embedded from the moment a scan is initiated through to fault analysis, testing, repair information, and final reporting.

It states the result is a tool that moves with the technician, not one that stops at the scan results page – a result which saw the ThinkTool Expert 399 announced as the winner of the Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – Tools and Equipment at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo).

Logicar states underpinning this is a significant investment in OE software.

Because the AI guidance draws on genuine OEinformed data, Logicar explains the analysis it produces is vehicle-specific and grounded in real workshop diagnostics – not generic interpretations.

When a fault code appears, the platform reportedly goes beyond a basic DTC definition – interpreting likely causes, suggesting next diagnostic steps, and building what Thinkcar calls a fault profile: a clearer picture of the fault using codes, system data, and related vehicle information together.

From there, the AI maintenance guide supports the repair direction with circuit and system inspection, guided tests, service functions, and structured checks.

Where available, reference images, wiring diagrams, and technical information are surfaced directly within the workflow, reducing the time a technician spends switching between tools or hunting through separate repair databases.

At the close of a job, the Expert 394 and Expert 399 generate professional PDF reports built from scan results, screenshots, live data, and diagnostic findings.

For workshops managing warranty claims, customer communication, or their own records, Logicar says this is a practical time-saver with genuine professional value.

Choosing a diagnostic platform is a long-term decision – Logicar says the Expert 394 and Expert 399 are built for workshops that want AI working alongside the technician at every stage of the diagnostic process – not just adding a layer of complexity to an already demanding job.

For more information about Thinkcar Diagnostic Tools, contact Logicar on 1300 322 782.

PRODUCTS

EXPAND YOUR WORKSHOP’S CAPABILITY

In a changing market, AutoTest says it is ready to help workshops remain ready

From September 1st, 2026, Victorian workshops intending to issue roadworthy certificates for electric and hybrid vehicles must hold EV accreditation and meet relevant requirements.

AutoTest notes that while these changes are grounded in safety, they also offer workshops an opportunity to expand their inspection capabilities as the vehicle mix continues to evolve.

Adapting to a broader vehicle mix

Electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming more regular across Australian roads and over time, more of these vehicles are likely to present for inspection.

Under the new framework, Victorian workshops without EV accreditation can continue inspecting petrol, diesel, and LPG vehicles, but will not be able to issue roadworthy certificates for EVs or hybrids from June 1st, 2026.

This creates a practical consideration for workshop owners, whether to maintain current capabilities or broaden their inspection offerings to include a wider range of vehicles.

Building capability through training and standards

To obtain EV accreditation, examining mechanics must complete prerequisite training of either AURETH101 for battery electric vehicles, or AURETH011 for hybrid vehicles.

Training must be completed before undertaking the EV Risk and Hazard Awareness course. Workshops must operate in accordance with Australian Standard (AS) 5732, ensuring safe practices when working around high voltage systems.

SYKES-PICKAVANT

Practical changes in the workshop

The updated EV requirements introduce several practical considerations for workshop environments. Businesses intending to inspect electric and hybrid vehicles will need to ensure their premises are set up to safely manage high voltage systems and potential battery-related risks.

These measures are designed to support the safe handling of scenarios unique to EVs, particularly where battery damage or instability may be present.

Monitoring the risks you can’t see

A key feature of the new requirements is the inclusion of tools that monitor conditions not immediately visible.

Workshops must be equipped with a thermal imaging camera (20°C to 400°C) and a carbon monoxide (CO) metre capable of detecting 35 ppm. These instruments support the EV inspection checklist, which includes identifying potential signs of battery instability.

For example, if a battery temperature is greater than 10°C over the ambient temperature, and then after the 15 minute recheck is rising above that point, there is a risk the battery is in thermal runaway. Similarly, increasing CO levels or indicators such as smoke, a hissing or whistling noise, or specific odours may point to off-gassing, requiring the vehicle to be isolated and appropriate action taken. This approach reflects a broader shift toward datainformed inspection practices, where thermal and

BODY REPAIR TOOLS

Sykes-Pickavant says these are premium tools for modern panel work

For many experienced repairers, the SykesPickavant name is familiar because it has been around for decades and has built its reputation on premium professional tools.

The Sykes-Pickavant story goes back to the early days of the garage trade in England in 1921, with Joe Sykes launching under the Sykes name in 1931.

By 1950, Australia and New Zealand were already among its early export markets, and more than 75 years later the brand is still going strong across both markets.

That history still matters, but only because the tools continue to back it up.

The new 2026 Sykes Pickavant Body Repair Tools catalogue brings together a premium selection of tools for day-to-day panel work.

It covers the core jobs of shaping, stretching, shrinking, smoothing and finishing steel and aluminium panels, with a range that includes

panel beating hammers, dollies, body blades, trim removal tools and other specialist repair tools for professional workshop use.

These repair tools are built using high quality materials and proven design features.

Panel beating hammers are made from 4140 alloy steel and feature polished forged induction hardened heads, premium hickory handles and a wood and steel double wedge system for stability in heavy duty use.

Matching dollies are manufactured from high strength 4140 alloy steel with induction hardened working faces for durability and consistent performance.

For many experienced tradesmen, SykesPickavant says its name is synonymous with products they have used in workshops for generations associated with quality, trusted performance and premium tools that have stood the test of time.

environmental readings form part of standard decision-making.

Supporting the transition

AutoTest Products explains it has developed EVready diagnostic equipment to support workshops conducting electric and hybrid vehicle inspections. The AutoTest InfraRed Camera assists with monitoring temperature variations across battery systems and high-voltage components, with a temperature range of -20 °C to 400°C.

Complementing this, the AutoTest Carbon Monoxide Tester provides real-time ambient CO measurement, capable of detecting levels between 0 to 1000 parts per million (ppm), with clear audible and visual alerts.

Both instruments are designed to help workshops broaden their inspection capabilities while maintaining practical, workshop-friendly usability. To learn more, contact the AutoTest team on 03 8840 3017 or sales@autotest.net.au or visit www.autotest.net.au

Sykes-Pickavant states that is why it is still held in such high regard by those who have used it for years, and why it continues to resonate with younger generations coming into the trade. Tridon was proud to demonstrate its full Sykes-Pickavant range at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo.

For more information, visit www.tridon.com.au

INTRODUCING THE 2026 SAFETY SOLUTIONS PRODUCT GUIDE

For the first time, LED Autolamps and ECCO Safety have come together in a single, comprehensive Safety Product Catalogue

Available in both hard copy and digital formats and designed for easy reference, this new 2026 Safety Solutions Product Guide brings the full LED Autolamps and ECCO Safety product offering into one clear, practical resource.

With an easy to navigate layout, clearly marked brand sections, and a full product spread that removes the need to decode colours or mounting options, those behind the catalogue say finding the right solution has never been simpler.

Handy industry information pages, cheat sheets, and practical guides add extra value, helping users make confident decisions faster.

The digital version takes usability even further, featuring a fully linked and selectable Contents page and index, plus “Scan Here” QR codes that link directly to individual product pages for detailed specifications, downloads, and updates.

LED Autolamps and ECCO Safety say, “this isn’t just a catalogue, it is a smarter, more intuitive way to access extensive safety solutions from two trusted, complementary brands.”

Key features:

• First combined LED Autolamps and ECCO Safety catalogue: brings two trusted, complementary safety brands together in one extensive, easy to use guide

• Available in both hard copy and digital formats: gives flexibility to reference the catalogue in workshops, offices, vehicles, or on the go

• Extensive full product spread: see the entire range clearly without needing to decode colours or mounting options

• Clear brand identification and structured layout: makes navigation simple and supports confident product selection

• Handy industry information, cheat sheets, and guides included: provides practical support and real world guidance beyond product listings

• Benefit focused product descriptions: helps users quickly understand how products fit their application

• Fully linked and selectable Contents and index

(digital version): find exactly what you need instantly, with fewer clicks and less searching

• “Scan Here” QR codes linking to product pages: instant access to specifications, downloads, and the latest updates

The 2026 Safety Solutions Product Guide will launch in August.

To secure your copy, visit www.eccoesg.com.au or www.ledautolamps.com or contact ECCO Safety Australia on 1800 815 000 or contact@eccosafety.com

CERAMIC MADE EVEN MORE SIMPLE

Mothers has launched its new California Gold Ceramic Spray and Rinse

Mothers – part of the Command Auto Group – has released its new Ceramic Spray and Rinse product to the market.

“This is the simplest ceramic product we have ever created,” Command Auto Group Marketing Director, James Kennedy, said.

“Just spray, rinse, and dry, resulting in real ceramic protection. It is all about making serious shine and protection easier than ever and is the easiest way to give your car that professionalgrade protection and a shine that turns heads.

“This is the ultimate touchless ceramic SiO2 coating, providing instant water beading and a grit-repelling, gloss-enhancing finish on paint, glass, trim, and wheels – yes, you can use it on all of your exterior surfaces.

“Taking care of your car shouldn’t feel like work. At Mothers, we’ve always believed in the beauty of simplicity.

“Inspired by the passion for the drive, we created the California Gold Ceramic line to give you professionalgrade protection without the hassle.”

Key features include:

• SiO2 Technology for instant, long-lasting protection and extreme water beading.

• Touchless application – no buffing or rubbing required, just spray and rinse.

• Versatility – it is safe and effective on paint, glass, trim, and wheels.

• As a powerful drying aid, it leaves a streak-free, high-gloss shine.

“The Mothers California Gold Ceramic family works together to simplify the use of ceramics on any vehicle, no matter what type of protection you have, if any, and features an invigorating watermelon scent that will fill the air making every wash and every detail an enjoyable experience,” James said.

The Mothers California Gold range also includes:

• Ceramic Wash and Wax: an ultra-slick, super-sudsy formula, optimised for ceramics but perfect for use on any vehicle, no matter what paint protection products you currently use.

• Ceramic Paint Correction: featuring a breakthrough formula which removes scratches, water spots, swirls, and restores colour to your vehicle’s paint with ease. Use it by hand or machine to restore the brilliance to your paint or ceramic coatings, while adding gloss and depth.

• Ceramic Spray Wax: perfect for all paint types and finishes. Whether your paint is currently protected by a wax, a sealant, a ceramic coating, or not protected at all, this is a super easy user-friendly formula providing extreme depth and shine, a super-hydrophobic coat of ceramic protection for relentless beading, glass-like clarity, and a head-turning shine.

“Used individually or as a system, the new Mothers California Gold Ceramic family of products will help you keep your vehicle looking its best. It is ceramic made simple!” James said.

“Find Mothers Polish Australia Online for more information, along with a host of “how-to videos” and Mothers car care tips.”

For more information, call Command Auto Group on 02 8853 2900 or visit www.commandauto.com.au

EV TESTING EQUIPMENT

Testo says it offers a one-stop shop of equipment and expertise

Testo, a global leader in the design and manufacture of portable and stationary measurement and testing equipment, was founded in Germany almost 70 years ago.

From September 1, 2026, Victoria will introduce mandatory “EV” Accreditation for Licensed Vehicle Testers performing roadworthy inspections on Electric and Hybrid vehicles.

In order to gain EV Accreditation, automotive workshops servicing or inspecting EVs must comply with safety standards (specifically AS 5732:2022) and ensure that the following are available:

• Safety Equipment: Insulated gloves (1,000V minimum rating), insulated mats, boots, and face shields.

• Fire Safety: Class D fire extinguishers, lithium fire blankets, and water mist systems.

• Detection and Testing: A CO metre (35 ppm capable), thermal imaging camera (20°C–400°C), and AED on-site.

• Workshop Layout: a dedicated, clearly marked high-voltage safe zone with proper signage, and lock-out/tag-out kits for de-energising vehicles.

• Charging Capability: Level 2 (7kW – 22 Kw) and

Level 3 (50Kw) chargers to support servicing demand

• Technician Training Standards: the industry is moving towards stricter adherence to Australian Standard AS 5732:2022, which governs how technicians safely service EVs.

It is recommended workshop owners review their Licensed Vehicle Tester (LVT) conditions, commence or continue training for their technicians and ensure they have the correct EV Testing and maintenance equipment.

Testo says this is where it becomes each EV Tester’s one-stop shop for the latest tech EV testing equipment as required by the new EV Accreditation requirements.

For thermal imagers, which are required to have a range of 20°C to 400°C for Battery /HV systems, Testo offers the Testo 883 Thermal Imager (The Gold Standard).

Testo says this Imager features 320\times 240 resolution (expandable to 640\times 480) to see individual failing cells clearly.

Testo’s Smart Fusion and ScaleAssist technology overlays thermal data onto real world images

(crucial for customer reports) and automatically adjusts the scale to prevent false alarms on due to hot temperatures.

When it comes to gas analysis, with licensed EV testers required to have a CO meter capable of 35 ppm for hybrids, Testo has its Testo 340 Flue Gas Analyser which handles up to four sensors (O2, CO, NO, NO2).

The company states Testo 340 has an automatic dilution feature which protects sensors from poisoning caused by high exhaust spikes, ensuring this is a workshop tool that lasts a decade, not just a season.

Testo serves more than 650,000 customers worldwide and has a team of Australian-based experts ready to assist.

For more information, contact Testo Australia Customer Service on 03 8761 6108 or visit Testo online at www.testo.com

PRODUCTS

GLOBAL DESIGN, COMPLETE RANGE, AND INNOVATIVE PERFORMANCE

Brembo was pleased to showcase it all at AAAExpo

At the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), Brembo marked its second year exhibiting by reinforcing its long-term commitment to the Australian Aftermarket, bringing its industry-leading standard of innovation, design and performance to a local audience.

Brembo presented its complete range of aftermarket solutions, structured into five distinct product families:

• Brembo Essential: provides a reliable entry point to the aftermarket, offering quality replacement components built on Brembo’s technical expertise. This range includes brake drums, shoes, hydraulic components, and remanufactured calipers.

• Brembo Prime: delivers premium solutions engineered to meet OE specifications and enhance safety and performance across vehicles. This is the everyday range available to technicians for 1:1 OE replacement, with a range of OE equivalent discs and both low-metallic and ceramic pads, meeting the vehicle’s OE specification.

• Brembo Beyond: represents Brembo’s

approach to new mobility, with ranges such as Greenance for reduced emissions on sedan and LCV, and Beyond EV solutions designed for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle, improving durability by protecting against corrosion, while enhancing comfort and sustainability.

• Brembo Xtra: is designed for enthusiasts seeking distinctive design and enhanced performance, combining strong visual identity with technical innovation. This range is a replacement part that provides increased performance for those who need it.

• Brembo Upgrade: brings motorsport-derived technology to the road, offering highperformance systems for drivers demanding maximum braking capability, including Carbon-Ceramic discs and pads for luxury high-performance vehicles, and the iconic Brembo GT kits.

A key highlight at AAAExpo was the Xtra range display, highlighting the comprehensive non-Euro range to local technicians.

Brembo showcased the newly released X-Style caliper in Australia, alongside a new Xtra disc

featuring a dimpled design, and copper-free brake pads engineered for applications such as the Holden SS Commodore.

Brembo also demonstrated its unique link between road and track by exhibiting advanced motorsport technologies, including its Formula 1 braking system, weighing less than 5kg for the complete assembly, and MotoGP braking systems. These examples highlight Brembo’s continuous transfer of knowledge from elite racing to aftermarket and OE solutions.

To learn more about Brembo, visit www.bremboparts.com

PREMIUM FILTRATION BACKED BY 100 YEARS OF PENRITE

For workshops and mechanics, efficiency, reliability and product confidence are non-negotiable

Every component fitted to a customer vehicle reflects directly on workshop reputation, performance outcomes and long-term customer trust.

Penrite says this is exactly why its growing range of filters have quickly gained momentum in the market since launching just a few months ago.

Developed to meet the demands of modern passenger vehicles, 4WDs, and light commercial applications, Penrite Filters have rapidly become a popular choice for trade professionals looking for premium quality filtration solutions backed by one of Australia’s most trusted automotive brands.

Covering both Oil Filters and Air Filters, the range has been designed to provide maximum engine protection, improved durability and workshop friendly fitment solutions.

The Penrite Oil Filter range delivers several premium features that directly benefit technicians and vehicle owners alike.

Featuring a durable high-burst pressure steel canister, the filters are built to withstand demanding operating conditions and maintain structural integrity under pressure.

Penrite says a premium filtration media delivers greater than 98 percent efficiency at 20≥ microns, helping capture harmful contaminants before they circulate through the engine.

This contributes to reduced engine wear, improved lubrication system performance and extended engine life.

Additionally, the integrated silicone anti-drain back valve (fitted only where required by OEM design or equivalent market applications) assists with maintaining oil pressure during start up, helping protect critical engine components during cold starts.

For workshops, the inclusion of a practical 19mm nut for easy removal simplifies servicing.

The Penrite Air Filter range has also been developed with a clear focus on engine protection and workshop efficiency.

Using a high-efficiency and dust holding premium filtration media, the filters are designed to capture airborne contaminants while maintaining optimal airflow for engine performance.

Each filter is designed and built for maximum

performance and quality, providing workshops with confidence in fitment and reliability. Designed to fit first time, every time.

Importantly for workshops and trade professionals, Penrite Filters are exclusively available through Supercheap Auto.

This means mechanics and workshops can access the range through a Supercheap Auto Trade Account, providing a convenient and streamlined purchasing solution backed by a trusted national retail network.

To learn more about the Penrite Filters range, visit penriteoil.com.au/filters.

TOPDON DEBUTS AT AAAEXPO

The brand’s latest diagnostic, battery, and thermal imaging technologies captured attention

As it made its debut at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), TopDon showcased its latest innovations to the automotive aftermarket for the first time in the Australian region. Three core product series were presented, covering intelligent diagnostic systems, highperformance battery and power solutions, and advanced thermal imaging technology designed to deliver faster insights, higher efficiency, and greater reliability for modern workshops.

Positioned as the highlight of TopDon’s booth, the ONE Series represents a new generation of intelligent diagnostic solutions, with TopDon stating its ONE Plus and ONE Pro embody this vision through two distinct yet complementary approaches.

The ONE Plus delivers robust professional diagnostics with a 10.1-inch interface, enabling four-system ECU programming for BMW and VAG vehicles, alongside coding and customization across multiple brands.

The ONE Pro takes a step further with a 12inch display and a redefined operating logic that reduces repetitive vehicle data loading,

enabling faster transitions between multi-function diagnostic scenarios.

The company explains the ONE Pro supports fullsystem ECU programming and coding functions, while offering strong expandability through compatibility with external devices such as battery tester, endoscope and other workshop devices.

TopDon also highlighted TopFix, the company’s latest intelligent diagnostic assistant powered by AI technology.

In addition to the ONE Plus and ONE Pro, TopFix has also been introduced across the CarPal and TopScan mobile scanners, bringing intelligent repair support to more users.

From fault code interpretation and repair guidance to wiring diagram access, TopDon says TopFix AI delivers faster and more accurate troubleshooting. Expanding beyond passenger vehicle diagnostics, TopDon also introduced the ONE Moto, a dedicated solution for motorcycles, jet skis, and marine craft. Covering more than 100 motorcycle brands and supported by a comprehensive set of adapters, it ensures strong adaptability for multi-vehicle workshops.

TopDon also showcased its battery and thermal imaging lineup, reinforcing its focus on complete workshop solutions.

It explains that the V4000 HD jump starter offers reliable 12V and 24V vehicle support for a wide range of automotive and heavy-duty applications, built around a robust LiFePO₄ power system for stable performance.

Further, the TC004 thermal inspection tool is said to provide fast, practical thermal analysis with a 3.5-inch display and TISR-enhanced imaging, while integrated WiFi connectivity enhances work efficiency in electrical, mechanical, and building inspection environments.

To learn more, visit www.topdon.com.au

PRODUCTS

GOSS AND PERMASEAL BROUGHT TOGETHER FOR AAAEXPO

For the first time, these brands were showcased together by AA Gaskets at this industry event

While both brands share historical roots in gasket production, Permaseal and Goss have evolved into distinct, specialised, and respected brands within the automotive aftermarket.

For the first time, brand stewards AA Gaskets (AAG) were proud to showcase both brands with new, innovative, and customer focus products at this year’s Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo).

Goss, established in 1943 as the Goss Gasket Manufacturing Company, originally focused on quality gasket products.

Today, Goss provides innovative and customercentric solutions across specialised Engine and Vehicle Management and Control product categories including fuel and emission, cooling, electronic sensors, and ignition components.

Meanwhile, AAG says Permaseal is recognised for offering the most comprehensive range of engine gaskets and kits in Australasia.

Built on an uncompromising commitment to ‘Range, Confidence and Expertise,’ chemical sealant solutions now bolster the Permaseal range of physical gasketing products.

“AAG’s distribution network provides our brands with extensive reach across the Australasian aftermarket, with AAG being able to leverage the full capabilities of an expanded and integrated product development team,” AAG General Manager, Carl Wels, said.

“We are excited to explore new products, channels to market, and future vehicle technologies. Including chemical sealants, turbochargers, engine covers, and tooling, nearly everything on display this year was a new initiative!”

Maintaining its drive in advancements in the category, Goss has developed Turbocharger Kits to suit the Australian parc.

According to AAG, tighter emissions regulations and the need for better fuel economy has seen turbocharged engines become more appealing than those that are larger and naturally aspirated.

To reflect the demand in the market, Goss has developed quality replacement Turbocharger Kits. These kits cover critical components such as Oil Feed Line, Wastegate Actuator, gaskets, and the necessary hardware for a complete installation.

From weeks prior to the AAAExpo, Permaseal had been priming its public announcement of its new chemical sealing program, featuring three types of application products: Sump, Housing, and Manifold and Exhaust.

Each reflecting its most common use cases, these products reportedly forego the complicated colour coordinated labels the market has been populated by.

Unapologetically intuitive and user focused, AAG says the bold packaging reflects the highperformance product inside.

To learn more about these brands, visit www.goss.com.au and www.permaseal.co

PRODUCTS

NEW DT4X4 LITHIUM BATTERY PACK

DT4x4 says this ultimate pack offers power, portability, and performance

In today’s fast-paced world, having a reliable, portable, and powerful energy solution is essential for both outdoor enthusiasts and professionals.

According to DT4x4, its new Lithium Battery Pack is here to revolutionise how you stay powered, offering cutting-edge technology, robust performance, and user-friendly features.

Whether you are camping off-grid, working remotely, or preparing for emergencies, it says this battery pack is designed to meet all your energy needs.

Leading power and capacity

At the heart of this battery pack is a LiFePO4 battery with a massive 1167Wh capacity (93.87h) – ensuring long-lasting, stable power that can handle demanding applications.

Paired with a 2400W inverter and a 3600W surge output, this system is capable of powering everything from small electronics to larger appliances.

Whether it is running a refrigerator, charging laptops, or powering tools, DT4x4 says this battery pack delivers consistent and reliable energy.

Smart technology for modern users

Equipped with a colour touchscreen and wireless app monitoring and control functionality, this battery pack puts convenience at your fingertips. The intuitive interface allows users to monitor performance, adjust settings, and even receive over-the-air updates for the latest firmware enhancements.

The Smart Battery Management System (BMS) is said to ensure optimal performance and safety, while the 3000W Turbo Boost charging on 240VAC minimises downtime by recharging the battery “faster than ever.”

Versatile charging and output options

DT4x4 explains that this battery pack is built for versatility.

It supports multiple charging inputs, including a 15A DC input via DC-DC, solar, or a cigarette lighter, with solar input capabilities of up to 600W/40V (300W at 24V) and no solar regulator needed.

DT4x4 says this makes it ideal for off-grid adventures or eco-conscious users who want to harness the power of the sun.

On the output side, the battery pack offers a wide

range of connectivity options, with three 240VAC output points for household appliances, two 18W USB outputs and two USBC 18W outputs for smaller devices, and two USBC 100W outputs for fastcharging laptops and other high-power devices. Also included are one 10A Power socket output and two DC5525 8A outputs for specialised equipment.

Compact, durable, and expandable

Weighing just 15.2kg and measuring 425 x 214 x 240mm, this battery pack is compact and portable without compromising on performance.

Its UL94-V0 protection ensures safety and durability, even in challenging environments. For users with greater energy needs, the innovative Fusion Mode allows you to pair two units, effectively doubling the capacity and output.

For more information, visit www.drivetech4x4.com.au

FLASHLUBE RANGE ON-SHOW

Flashlube exhibted with Terrain Tamer at AAAExpo

Flashlube were on show alongside Terrain Tamer at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), presenting a broad selection of engine protection and performance products to automotive professionals from across Australia. During the event, Flashlube displayed its range of additives and lubricants, including the Radiator Coolant, Grease range and Brake Fluid.

It says these products help to improve engine performance, promote cleaner operation, and assist in extending the life of critical vehicle components across both passenger and heavyduty applications.

Visitors to the stand were introduced to a variety of Flashlube products, including Diesel Conditioner and Heavy Duty Oil Stabiliser, both designed to help reduce engine wear, improve combustion efficiency, and lower harmful emissions.

Flashlube reports the range generated significant interest among attendees seeking practical solutions for vehicle maintenance, reliability, and long-term engine protection.

Flashlube also showcased several of its specialised hardware products, including the Catch Can Pro, which assists in reducing oil and carbon contamination in modern engines, and the Diesel Water Separator Filter, developed to improve fuel quality by separating water and contaminants before they reach sensitive engine components. Together, Flashlube says these products demonstrated its focus on providing complete vehicle protection solutions for the modern aftermarket industry.

For Flashlube, the Expo delivered valuable opportunities for industry engagement, allowing suppliers, manufacturers and automotive professionals to connect, exchange insights and

explore emerging products and technologies shaping the future of the sector.

It states exhibiting alongside Terrain Tamer highlighted the strong relationship between the two brands and their ongoing dedication to delivering dependable, high-quality aftermarket solutions.

Across the duration of the show, the Flashlube team connected with attendees to discuss product applications, industry challenges and solutions aimed at improving vehicle durability, efficiency and overall performance.

For more information, visit www.flashlube.com

NEW JLM RANGE LAUNCHED AT AAAEXPO

It was another successful AAAExpo for JLM Lubricants

JLM Lubricants has hailed its participation in the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) as a major success, following three highly productive days of networking, product showcasing, and customer engagement.

A major highlight for JLM during the event was the official launch of its new Car Care product range, which received an overwhelmingly positive response from workshop owners, distributors, retailers, and detailing professionals attending the show.

Alongside the new range, JLM also showcased its extensive portfolio of fuel additives, oil additives, DPF cleaning solutions, and workshop service products.

“We were extremely pleased with the response to both our stand and our new Car Care range,” JLM Brand Manager, Adrian Brangwin, said.

“It is great to see the demand for premium quality products is still very strong in the Australian market.

“We’ve seen a strong growth in interest from distributors and workshops seeking premium aftermarket solutions backed by proven European technology and performance.”

The strong attendance and high calibre of visitors created the perfect environment for JLM to strengthen its presence within the Australian automotive market.

“Our aim was to connect with as many new, potential customers and catch up with all the existing industry contacts,” Adrian said.

“The Expo delivered on both accounts, with a high volume of traffic and a dedicated, interested trade crowd keen to see all the latest products.”

For more information about JLM Lubricants and its product range, visit www.jlmlubricants.com.au

DBA COVERAGE DEMONSTRATED

The brand put the focus squarely on its extensive range at AAAExpo

For Disc Brakes Australia (DBA), Melbourne’s Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) has always been a reliable gauge of where the industry is heading.

Across three busy days, workshops, suppliers and manufacturers filled the show floor talking through everything from emerging vehicle platforms to performance upgrades and the dayto-day realities of a rapidly changing workshop environment.

The team at DBA report they chose to avoid the headline product reveals and focused instead on something which it sees as “more valuable to the trade: practical coverage expansion, stronger performance offerings and a clear read on where the Australian car parc is heading.”

Coverage that matters to workshops

One of the consistent themes across the stand was application coverage, which now exceeds 96 percent of the Australian car parc.

For workshops juggling an increasingly diverse mix of vehicles, DBA notes that kind of reach has real practical value with fewer supplier gaps, and fewer compromises at the counter.

The range runs from OE-style replacement through to towing, off-road, track, and high-performance street applications, giving workshops access to solutions suited to a wide variety of customer needs and driving conditions.

BMW M Expansion Draws Attention

Drawing particular attention was DBA’s new BMW M rotor and pad program, developed for F-series and G-series M2, M3 and M4 applications.

European performance vehicles are a demanding category. Owners tend to be particular about how their cars perform, and workshops fitting aftermarket braking solutions need genuine confidence in what they’re recommending.

DBA says the new range has been developed for high-performance environments, including spirited road driving, track days and performance upgrades, covering both rotor and friction solutions.

For DBA’s R7D and Innovation Manager Janani Waterston, the program is as much about giving customers options as it is about engineering.

“What we’re really giving customers with the M Series is choice. You know your vehicle, you know how you use it – and now there’s a DBA product combination that’s been engineered specifically for this,” Janani said.

The release builds on DBA’s broader European vehicle program.

DBA reports interest at the expo pointed to appetite for further expansion, with several

attendees already asking about future applications beyond the current M-series range. DBA believes demand in this segment is appearing to be running well ahead of what the aftermarket currently covers.

Performance technology on show

DBA’s 5000 Series two-piece rotor technology also drew steady interest throughout the event.

The design pairs high-carbon cast iron rings with aerospace-grade aluminium hats, delivering improved heat management, reduced unsprung weight and more consistent braking performance under repeated load.

The range also incorporates DBA’s Thermal Stability Profiling and advanced slot design, both aimed at maintaining braking integrity under higher stress conditions.

For performance-focused workshops, DBA says the conversation has shifted away from simple part replacement, noting that customers are asking more questions about heat control, vehicle capability, and long-term braking behaviour, particularly in modified and enthusiast applications.

Responding to a changing Car Parc

If there was an undercurrent running through much of the show floor at AAAExpo 2026, DBA says it was the pace of change in the Australian vehicle market.

Brands like BYD and GWM are no longer a curiosity – they are turning up in independent workshops with increasing regularity, and parts coverage across many of these platforms is still catching up.

DBA used the event to highlight its ongoing work developing braking solutions for these emerging vehicle brands, alongside the growing hybrid and EV segment.

For more from DBA, visit www.dba.com.au

GERMAN SPECIALISTS EMBRACE FUTURE WORKSHOP TECHNOLOGIES

Canberra’s Anthony Costello Automotive has combined European car expertise, ADAS capability, and EV investment to evolve into a modern multi-brand workshop business

From a single technician working after hours from home to a 23-person operation handling everything from German luxury cars to EVs, Canberra-based Anthony Costello Automotive has steadily built a reputation around quality, adaptability, and in technology across Anthony Costello’s 45 years in the trade.

Located in the automotive hub of Fyshwick in the ACT, the business today operates across an expanded workshop footprint with 20 bays, a fleet of 40 loan cars, and a growing reputation around advanced diagnostics, ADAS calibration, and EV servicing capability.

Operations Manager Alexander Swan says the company’s growth has been driven by a willingness to evolve with the industry while maintaining strict standards across every aspect of the operation.

“Anthony initially did his apprenticeship with BMW and then went on to Mercedes-Benz,” Alex explains.

“From there he started doing more and more work from home after hours. Eventually he had enough clients that he went out on his own and in 1999 purchased the workshop where he is today.”

That workshop has since expanded into neighbouring properties, creating a substantial independent automotive business specialising primarily in European vehicles.

“About 80 percent of what comes through the door is from the German manufacturers,” Alex says.

“Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi and Volkswagen are still the bread and butter for us.”

The workshop’s technical team reflects that

specialisation. Alex says most technicians have dealership backgrounds, with many recruited directly from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi dealerships both locally and internationally.

“Everyone has come from dealer world from one of the German marques that we do,” he said.

“We’ve got six guys that have come straight out of Mercedes-Benz dealers locally and globally, three guys out of BMW, and four guys out of Audi Volkswagen.”

That experience has helped the workshop establish a strong reputation among owners of prestige European vehicles seeking dealer-level expertise combined with a more personalised customer experience.

Alex says maintaining that reputation requires constant reinvestment in equipment, training, and workshop systems.

“We invest in equipment; we invest in our staff and we invest in technology,” he says.

“We’re really fortunate because Anthony is still incredibly motivated after 45 years in the industry. If there is equipment or training we need to move forward, he’ll back it.”

However, like many businesses in the independent aftermarket, Anthony Costello Automotive has recognised the need to diversify as the vehicle market changes.

“We’ve got to be dynamic and respond to the industry changing,” Alex says.

“We now do a lot more of everything. We see a fair few of the US trucks like Dodge Rams and Silverados, but electrification has also changed things dramatically.”

That shift towards electrification has become one of the business’s biggest areas of investment and future planning.

“A lot of people are moving to electric vehicles, so we do a lot of servicing and repairs on EVs,” Alex says.

“When customers make that EV choice, we are seeing that loyalty to the traditional German brands is changing. We now see a remarkable amount of Chinese EVs and Teslas through the workshop as well.”

Rather than resist that change, the business has deliberately invested in tooling, training, and factory-level access to ensure it can confidently work on new-generation vehicles.

“We are part of the EV Hybrid Network, and we have made sure we’ve got the tooling and training in place,” Alex says.

“The first thing is, we won’t take a car on unless we are tooled up to do it. We make sure we have got access to factory repair instructions and the tooling needed.”

Alex says the Right to Repair legislation and the work undertaken by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) had been pivotal in allowing independent workshops to remain competitive in a rapidly changing market.

“If it wasn’t for Right to Repair, we wouldn’t have been able to keep up with these trends,” he says.

“At last count we had 21 brands set up with full OE-equivalent diagnostic hardware, software and repair information.”

He says the advocacy work undertaken by the AAAA and the ongoing management of ensuring access to data undertaken by Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority (AASRA) has fundamentally changed what independent workshops can achieve.

“If it wasn’t for the advocacy that the AAAA offer and the connection they’ve given us through

MEMBER FEATURE

industry partners, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” Alex says.

“We had access to some of that information, then lost it, and then regained it through Right to Repair.

Before that we were fitting brand new components to cars and then having to get them towed to dealerships for coding and programming.”

Alex says access to manufacturer repair information, security gateways, and programming systems has transformed the business into a true one-stop shop.

“There’s essentially nothing from a mechanical point of view that we can’t do now,” he says.

“Tyres, suspension, air-conditioning, ADAS, wheel alignments, programming, coding, and security systems – that capability wouldn’t be possible without AASRA and the Right to Repair framework.”

That capability has allowed the business to expand far beyond traditional servicing.

Today, Anthony Costello Automotive performs a significant amount of work for the collision repair sector, including mechanical repairs associated with accident-damaged vehicles and increasingly sophisticated ADAS-related procedures.

“We do a lot of ADAS work,” Alex says.

“We can now do calibrations across virtually every brand that comes through the door.”

The company’s investment in ADAS capability has transformed it into a one-stop mechanical and diagnostic partner for many repairers and trade customers.

“About 25 percent of our business is now trade work through workshops, panel repairers, insurance companies and dealerships,” Alex says.

That work also provides an important strategic advantage by exposing technicians to the newest vehicle technology entering the market.

“We’re seeing brand new vehicles very early because they come through the collision repair process,” Alex says.

“The other day we had a 2026 Porsche in for a wheel alignment, and we’ve had brand new EVs and newer Chinese vehicles coming through after accidents.

“It means our equipment and software always has to stay current.”

The workshop has also heavily invested in EV safety and technician training.

“We had Bosch come through and provide EV certification training and the guys are progressing through further qualifications as well,” Alex says.

“There’s still going to be suspension work, wheel alignments, steering repairs, and ADAS calibration needed on EVs, so we see that as an important future growth area.”

Training has become a major focus internally, with the company running regular in-house development sessions for its technicians.

“Every Tuesday night we run training sessions and we regularly get 10 to 14 technicians voluntarily giving up their own time to attend,” Alex says.

The business also supports technicians attending external training programs, industry expos, and specialist networking events.

“The training is whatever our guys want to do,” Alex says.

“There are incentives and financial rewards for attending training because we want to create a workplace where people don’t feel like they need to leave to progress their careers.”

Finding and retaining skilled staff remains one of the business’s biggest challenges.

“Like all businesses, staffing is always challenging,” Alex says.

“We have brought in talent from all over the world and we have also grown a lot of our own apprentices through the business.”

Alongside technology and staffing, Alex believes customer experience remains one of the company’s strongest competitive advantages.

“We are very customer-centric,” he says.

“We’ve worked really hard to streamline the customer experience from drop-off through to loan cars and communication.”

The business has refined its processes to minimise delays and inconvenience, with extended opening hours from 7.00am until 6.00pm and a substantial fleet of loan vehicles aimed at matching customers with similar cars wherever possible.

“If someone drives a Mercedes, we try to lend them a Mercedes,” Alex says.

“We have really tried to remove the pain points customers often experience elsewhere.”

Technology also plays a major role in the company’s marketing and online strategy.

The workshop has invested heavily in SEO and website optimisation as customer search behaviour increasingly shifts towards AI-generated responses rather than traditional search rankings.

“We have rebuilt our website with more technical content so that when people search things like EV servicing or ADAS repairs in Canberra, we appear in those AI-generated search responses,” Alex says.

He says the business has also become more strategic in determining the type of work and customers it targets.

“We don’t really have a good, better, and best option,” he says.

“We use OE-equivalent parts, premium lubricants, and the best equipment we can get. If customers want the level of service and standards we provide, then we are the right fit for them.”

That commitment to quality extends to supplier relationships and parts sourcing. The business now carries more than 4000 parts in stock and has developed booking systems that automatically account for potential supply delays when unfamiliar vehicles are booked into the workshop. Alex says the company now has approximately 11,000 customers with annual engagement from around 8,500 of them, reflecting strong customer retention rates.

Looking ahead, the company plans to continue evolving alongside the broader automotive industry.

“We never stop changing,” Alex says.

“Every year we set new goals and every quarter we revisit what we’re doing. We just want to make sure we stay at the forefront of the industry and never fall behind.”

For a business that started with one technician working after hours from home, Anthony Costello Automotive’s evolution reflects how rapidly Australia’s independent automotive sector is transforming through electrification, ADAS technology, and the growing need for highly specialised technical capability.

To learn more, visit www.anthonycostelloautomotive.com.au

AUTO AFTERMARKET AND COLLISION REPAIR EXPO SET NEW BENCHMARK

This record-breaking event showcased the incredible strength of the automotive aftermarket and collision repair sectors

The 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo has been heralded as the largest automotive trade event ever held in the Southern Hemisphere; bringing together the entire automotive industry for three action-packed days of innovation, training, networking and business opportunity at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre across May 14-16.

The co-located Expos attracted 15,000 attendees across the three-day event, setting a new attendance record and reinforcing the event’s position as the automotive industry’s premier trade event in the Southern Hemisphere.

Packed aisles, vibrant exhibitor stands, and strong engagement from automotive professionals travelling from across Australia and overseas created constant activity across the show floor.

Featuring more than 400 leading brands across the automotive aftermarket and collision repair sectors, the combined Expos delivered an industry showcase on a scale never seen before, with major stand builds, live demonstrations, interactive technology displays and new product launches creating energy across every corner of the show floor.

Also featured were a number of international delegations, including pavilions representing India, China, Taiwan, Thailand, and South Korea.

The event was officially opened on Thursday morning by Victorian Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Defence Industry, Skills and TAFE Colin Brooks MP, marking the beginning of three major days of industry connection, innovation and training.

Proudly supported by Auto Aftermarket Expo Major Sponsor Repco and Collision Repair Expo Major

Sponsor SAPE Group, the 2026 event elevated every aspect of the Expo experience – from the scale and quality of exhibits through to the expanded training programs, feature zones and networking opportunities.

“The 2026 Expo exceeded every expectation and has taken this event to another level entirely,” Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“The show floor was buzzing for three straight days, exhibitors invested in spectacular displays, and the level of engagement, networking and business activity was exceptional.

“The Expo brings the industry together like nothing else – connecting workshop owners, technicians, collision repairers, manufacturers, suppliers, and industry leaders face-to-face to share ideas and invest in the future of the industry.”

A major highlight of the event was the extensive free training delivered across the three days, with thousands of technicians, workshop owners and collision repair professionals participating in sessions led by internationally recognised trainers and respected Australian industry experts.

International trainers travelling to Melbourne

included Steve Smith from Pico Technology (UK) and Scott Hicks from TopDon USA, Keith and Liz Perkins from L1 Automotive Training (USA), and Robert Snook from Business Success Global (UK). The Technical Training Program delivered practical diagnostic training technicians could immediately apply in the workshop, while the Business Management Training Program focused on profitability, leadership, workshop performance and preparing businesses for increasingly complex vehicle technology.

The free Collision Repair Training Program delivered practical sessions focused on business performance, leadership, customer experience, ADAS processes and a session on the major trends reshaping the industry, led by Sam Street, Editor of Australasian Paint and Panel Magazine.

The hugely popular ADAS Training Zone and Diagnostics Discovery Zone featured live training and demonstrations, helping workshops strengthen capability in rapidly evolving vehicle technologies. Visitors at the Collision Repair Expo also experienced live welding demonstrations in the I-CAR Welding Zone and refinishing demonstrations from the Lowbake Spray Booth.

The Flying Spanners competition also returned bigger than ever, showcasing the industry’s next generation of emerging automotive talent in a fast-paced technical challenge environment. Here, Brandon Booth from Taylor Automotive and 4WD in Bomaderry (NSW) was crowned as the 2026 winner.

Adding to the excitement, a large contingent of Supercars drivers and automotive brand ambassadors attended the event across the three days for meet-and-greet sessions.

The Expo also reinforced its reputation as the industry’s premier networking platform, with thousands of valuable business connections made across the three days, culminating in the hugely popular Friday afternoon networking function, Australia’s largest automotive industry gathering.

Celebrating excellence and innovation remained a central part of the 2026 event, with the Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast and the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet recognising outstanding businesses, products, and individuals helping shape the future of the automotive industry.

“The passion, professionalism and commitment shown by our industry across the three days was extraordinary,” Stuart said.

“This event showcased the incredible strength of the automotive aftermarket and collision repair sectors, and the confidence our industry has in its future. We sincerely thank our exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, trainers, partners and every visitor who contributed to making this such an unforgettable event.

“We also thank Repco, SAPE Group and all of our valued sponsors and partners for helping us deliver a truly world-class industry event.

“I would also like to acknowledge and thank the AAAA Board, the AAAA team and the entire MSE Event Group team for their enormous effort in bringing this incredible event to life.

“Delivering an event of this scale requires an enormous, coordinated effort, and the professionalism and dedication shown by everyone involved was reflected in the event’s outstanding success.”

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

EVENT SPONSORS

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN THE AUTO AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY

The automotive aftermarket industry’s leading businesses, products, and individuals were recognised at two major industry awards events during AAAExpo

The Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet, proudly sponsored by Burson Auto Parts, brought together hundreds of industry leaders on the Thursday evening of the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) at Melbourne’s Crown Palladium to celebrate outstanding achievement across the automotive aftermarket sector.

A highlight of the industry calendar, the Awards Banquet recognised excellence across manufacturing, exports, business leadership, workplace culture, education and community impact, while also celebrating individuals making a significant contribution to the future of the industry. The evening also provided an opportunity to honour several outstanding individuals for their contribution and leadership within the industry.

John Blanchard Junior from CoolDrive Auto Parts received the prestigious Outstanding Service to Industry Award, while Doug Steindl from Zeder Corporation was recognised with the Kim Aunger Young Achiever Award.

Chelsea Lawson was awarded the Women at the Wheel Award, and Clint Flower received the Automotive Education Excellence Award.

Three respected industry leaders were also inducted into the AAAA Hall of Fame in recognition of their outstanding long-term contribution to the automotive aftermarket industry.

Steve Broad, Shayne Quaile, and Allan Gray OAM were acknowledged for their dedication, leadership and lasting impact on the industry over many years.

“The Awards events are always one of the most rewarding parts of the Expo because they shine a spotlight on the incredible talent, innovation and commitment across our industry,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“From groundbreaking new products and outstanding business initiatives, through to recognising individuals making a real impact, these awards reflect the strength and professionalism of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry.”

Stuart himself was also honoured by his peers, with AAAA Chairman Wayne Bryant taking a moment to recognise Stuart for his 20 years of service to the industry.

“Service industries are shaped by people who show up year after year after year and commit themselves to building something stronger than the way they found it. This year, 2026, marks 20 years of service and leadership by our Chief Executive Officer, Mr Stuart Charity,” Wayne said to the packed ballroom.

“Stuart jumped into the Association in 2006. He came from Austrade, and at that time, the whole Association had around 960 members with just over a million dollars in revenue.

“Today, we represent around 4000 member businesses, and this year, being an expo year, our revenue will approach closer to $8 million, and we have created stronger advocacy and significantly improved our national influence.

“That kind of growth doesn’t happen by accident. It takes vision, persistence and a fair bit of resilience. Under Stuart’s leadership, the AAAA has strengthened its advocacy, elevated the national standing of our industry, expanded events and councils, and established enduring initiatives like the automotive Innovation Centre.

“Stuart has led his team and the Board and kept the Chairman on track as well amid all of our industry disruption, and regulatory change and now leading into new things like skill shortages and even new policy battles that we need to encounter. “He has done that because he wanted to make sure that the Association doesn’t just react, but actually helps shape outcomes, and that’s what real leadership is about.

“Those that know Stuart best, especially the people in the workplace with him, will know that he’s a man of incredible judgment, commitment and professionalism, and he has a genuine belief in the industry and its people.

“So tonight, Stuart, on behalf of the board and our members, it gives me tremendous pleasure to recognise your 20 years of service. Thanks for your leadership, thanks for your dedication, thanks for your friendship, and thank you for helping the AAAA become what we’re really proud of today.”

After Wayne’s speech, which was delivered alongside four former AAAA Chairmen – Greg Baker, David Fraser, Graham Scudamore-Smith, and Mark Edwards – Stuart rejoined the stage to give a short speech.

“I am just so honoured to lead this organisation and to play a part in this wonderful industry,”

Stuart said.

“When I first joined the Association and came into the automotive industry, I think all my friends and family just laughed at me because I know nothing about cars, and I know a little bit more now, but the cars isn’t what drives me.

“It is the people, the people in this industry, people in this room, and people that I’ve worked with, absolutely amazing and inspiring, and our industry just punches above its weight in so many areas.

“I’m just so honoured and thankful to be in this job,” he said, going on to thank his team, Boards and Chairmen past and present, and his family and wife, Simone, for all of their support.

Amidst the celebrations of those in the room, a moment of silence was taken to pay tribute to two deeply loved and very missed members of the automotive community: Boris and Sofia Gurman, who passed away in December 2025.

“For more than 25 years Boris was the trusted mechanic, colleague, and friend of well-known industry identity and supporter of the AAAA, AASDN and TAT, Gil Sher who is here with us this evening,” Stuart said.

“Boris and Sofia were tragically among the first victims of the Bondi terror attack in December last year when they bravely attempted to disarm one of the gunmen on the side of the road in an instinctive and selfless attempt to protect others.

“Their loss has been deeply felt by Gil and his team at Gil Auto in Woollahra and across the wider automotive community.

“Tonight, as we gather to celebrate our industry, we also honour Boris and Sofia’s lives — their

THE 2026 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INDUSTRY AWARDS HONOUR ROLL

2026 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INNOVATION AWARDS

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product –Four Wheel Drive: Cruisemaster – Body Control System

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product –General Parts & Accessories: Brown and Watson International –Intelli IQ Smart Relays

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product –Electrical:

FMP Group – Bendix Ultimate Tow+ Portable Electric Brake Controller

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product –Performance:

Valvoline – Restore & Protect Engine Oil

Most Innovative New Servicing Product –Tools & Equipment: Logicar – THINKTOOL Expert 399

Automotive Business Sustainability Award: REDARC Electronics

Most Innovative Community Impact Program: Fulcrum Suspensions –K’gari Clean Up 2025 Program

Most Innovative Marketing Campaign: Repco – Bringin’ the Bathurst Campaign

Most Innovative E-commerce Solution: Zeder Corporation

2026 AUTO AFTERMARKET EXPO STAND AWARDS

Best Stand 36 Square Metres and Under: Podium

Best Stand Over 36 Square Metres: CoolDrive Auto Parts

bravery, their selflessness and their legacy. May they rest in peace.”

Earlier the same day, the Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast, sponsored by Ryco, recognised the companies delivering the industry’s most innovative new products, programs and campaigns, welcoming industry guests ahead of the official opening of the Expo.

Together, the Awards events form an integral part of the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo experience – not only bringing the industry together to connect, learn and do business, but also to celebrate the people, businesses and innovations driving the automotive aftermarket industry forward.

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

MINISTER BROOKS OPENS LANDMARK EXPO

Victorian Minister Colin Brooks officially opened AAAExpo before touring exhibitor stands alongside AAAA CEO Stuart Charity

Victorian Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, Defense, Skills and TAFE, Colin Brooks, officially opened the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) in Melbourne, describing the event as an important showcase for innovation, manufacturing and skills development across the automotive sector.

Held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and Collision Repair Expo brought together more than 400 exhibitors from across the automotive aftermarket and collision repair industries.

Speaking during the official opening ceremony, Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, described the exhibition as the largest automotive exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere.

“Over the next three days, you’ll be able to see 400 exhibitors from right across the automotive aftermarket and collision repair spectrum,” Stuart said.

“It’s an amazing showcase of our industry, our innovation and our capability.”

Stuart highlighted the wide range of technical demonstrations, free training sessions and advanced technology displays featured across

the Expo floor, including diagnostic and ADAS demonstrations aimed at helping workshops and technicians stay ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technology.

Minister Brooks praised the scale of the event and its importance to both the Victorian and national economies.

“It is great in its own right in terms of attracting many people to this great city and the benefits that brings,” Minister Brooks said.

“But of course it is also the biggest aftermarket expo in the Southern Hemisphere.”

The Minister noted that more than 13,000 people attended the previous event in 2024 and said he expected the 2026 edition to grow further – a prediction which would prove correct with a recordbreaking number of attendees through the doors across the three days.

He also acknowledged the important contribution made by businesses operating across the automotive aftermarket sector.

“There are some great big companies represented in the Association that drive jobs growth and skills development here in Victoria and manufacturing,” Minister Brooks said.

“But I also want to acknowledge the many small businesses in this sector who drive economic growth, provide jobs and continue to take risks and meet challenges to keep their businesses going.”

As Minister for Skills and TAFE, Mr Brooks also highlighted the importance of attracting young people into automotive trades and training pathways.

“We need to make sure young people who want to get involved in this great sector have the pathways to do it through training,” he said.

Following the official ribbon cutting, Minister Brooks accompanied Stuart on a tour of the expo floor, where they visited a number of exhibitors and Victorian manufacturers showcasing the latest automotive products, workshop technologies and aftermarket innovations.

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

ADAS SEMINAR HIGHLIGHTS INDUSTRY CALIBRATION RESPONSIBILITIES

Automotive aftermarket leaders have urged workshops to prioritise proper ADAS calibration processes as advanced safety systems rapidly become mainstream across Australia’s growing car parc

Automotive aftermarket leaders have warned workshops they can no longer afford to “guess” when dealing with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), as the technology rapidly becomes a standard feature across Australia’s vehicle fleet.

The message came during the “ADAS in the Real World: Validate, Don’t Guess” seminar held as part of the training program at the recent 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo).

The session featured industry experts Craig Baills from Highfields Mechanical, the AAAA’s Lesley Yates, Tom Hatch from mycar Tyre and Auto, Jason Trewin from I-CAR Australia, and Rob Mildenhall from NWG ADAS and Windscreens.

Opening the seminar, Craig said ADAS was no longer a niche issue confined to dealerships or specialist repairers.

“ADAS is mainstream. It is here to stay, and there’s more and more coming in everyday cars that we’re seeing through the workshops,” Craig said.

Lesley explained the growing importance of ADAS systems was one of the driving forces behind the AAAA’s development of the industry ADAS Code of Conduct, which was launched last year.

“We wanted to do it ourselves before someone did it for us,” Lesley said, warning governments and regulators were increasingly focusing on ADAS functionality and road safety compliance.

According to Lesley, industry forecasts suggest approximately 44 percent of Australia’s car parc will feature some form of ADAS technology by 2030.

A major focus of the seminar centred on the risks of relying solely on scan tools or dashboard warning lights when diagnosing ADAS-related issues.

Tom warned workshops needed far greater diagnostic discipline when calibrating safety systems, stating, “the scan tool will only tell you what the car thinks is wrong.”

The panel stressed that workshop processes, calibration environments, wheel alignment accuracy, training and documentation all played critical roles in ensuring ADAS systems functioned correctly.

Jason said workshops considering entering the ADAS calibration market needed to focus on procedures, training and capability, before investing heavily in equipment.

The seminar also highlighted growing concerns around liability, with panel members warning workshops could still face responsibility for improperly calibrated vehicles, even when subcontracting work externally.

The industry leaders said ADAS calibration requirements would only continue to grow as more autonomous technologies entered the Australian market and regulators increasingly linked system functionality to vehicle roadworthiness standards.

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

CLINT FLOWER RECOGNISED WITH AUTOMOTIVE EDUCATION EXCELLENCE AWARD

The highly respected educator was honoured for his innovative training methods, industry collaboration, and commitment to the next generation of technicians

Automotive educator Clint Flower has been recognised with the 2026 Automotive Education Excellence Award, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to automotive training, industry collaboration, and skills development across the Australian aftermarket.

With extensive experience as both a technician and educator, Clint brings real-world industry insight directly into the classroom, ensuring apprentices receive training that is practical, relevant, and aligned with modern workshop expectations.

“I am genuinely grateful for this acknowledgement through the 2026 Automotive Education Excellence Award,” Clint said.

“Training and education have always been something I’m deeply passionate about.

“We are in a really exciting period for our industry where the demand for new skills, evolving technology, and continuous learning has never been greater.

“At the same time, the importance of strong fundamentals remains critical.”

Clint is passionate about promoting automotive careers to young people, supporting school engagement, career discussions and mentoring to help attract the next generation into the trade. He

works across both TAFE NSW and industry-based training, ensuring learners at different stages of their careers can access high-quality, relevant and engaging education.

“Through the opportunities I have within TAFE and industry training with partners like CoolDrive, AutoData Training, Bosch, AASDN, and WorldSkills, I have been fortunate to work alongside technicians, apprentices, teachers, coaches, and mentors who share a passion for developing the current and next generations of automotive professionals,” Clint said.

“Those moments of mentoring, coaching, and helping people grow their confidence and capability are the parts of the job I enjoy most.”

Rather than relying solely on traditional classroom delivery, Clint integrates hands-on, technologydriven and scenario-based learning that replicates real workshop environments.

He uses practical diagnostic simulations, real-world fault scenarios, and modern scan tools and digital platforms to build apprentices’ problem-solving and diagnostic thinking. Sessions are structured to mirror workshop workflows, encouraging teamwork, communication, and time management.

A key strength of Clint Flower’s work is his strong

DON KYATT CELEBRATED AS TERRY MAHONEY EXCELLENCE IN MARKETING AWARD WINNER

The company was recognised for its “The Customer is Still King” campaign

It was a very successful Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) for Don Kyatt Spare Parts, with the company taking out the Terry Mahoney Excellence in Marketing award alongside a number of other honours.

The Marketing gong recognised its Terrain Tamer “The Customer is Still King” campaign, centred around the brand’s heritage and commitment to customer relationships.

The campaign included children’s book ‘Finding Frank,’ alongside an integrated television, radio, and digital strategy that delivered measurable results, including significant growth in customer engagement, brand loyalty, and sales performance.

“To win such an award, in a room of so many brands that we have come to know and respect, was a great honour,” Don Kyatt Spare Parts Chief Executive Officer, Brent Hutchinson, said.

“To win on the night was a credit to our Marketing team and to our organisation as a whole.”

Adding to the celebrations, Marketing Manager

Skye Kottachchi was recognised as a Top Three Finalist in the Woman at the Wheel Award, while the company was also pleasantly surprised to receive a Best Stand Under 36m² nomination.

“To see Skye’s name as a finalist, was personally very rewarding. Skye has been promoted several times and grown into the role as Marketing Manager. She keeps the brand incredibly consistent across many languages and borders and has had to bring together many aspects of the marketing mix, to bring very tangible results to our bottom line,”

Brent said.

“In many ways, her story is exactly what we love about our company. From the outside you see the wonderful parts we offer, but the real magic comes from our people who have taken time to learn, expand their thinking, and who have grown over many years in our organisation, to be nothing short of elite.”

The Terry Mahoney Excellence in Marketing Award

collaboration with the automotive industry to ensure training remains relevant, accessible, and aligned with workforce needs.

“One thing I have always strongly believed is that success in the automotive trade is closely connected to continuous professional development,” Clint said.

“Our industry moves incredibly fast, and while solid foundations are essential, there is also a real need to keep learning, adapting, and expanding your skill set. That constant evolution is what keeps the industry exciting.

“I would like to sincerely thank the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, the industry partners I work with and alongside, plus everyone involved in training and education across the sector.

“I am very grateful for the support and recognition, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the future of our industry.”

was sponsored by automotive aftermarket and motorsport industry PR and Marketing consultancy, Marinelli PR.

“It was an honour to present this prestigious award named after the person that was so instrumental in helping me to create and run a business that has been successful in this industry for more than three decades,” Paul Marinelli said.

“I warmly congratulate the finalists and Don Kyatt Automotive on making the challenging pursuit of effective marketing look easy through their skill and creativity.”

To learn more about Don Kyatt, visit www.donkyatt.com.au

INDIA PAVILION OPENS AUSTRALIAN MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Official ribbon cutting highlights growing Indian automotive aftermarket ambitions at Melbourne’s AAAExpo

The Indian Pavilion at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) was officially opened on the Thursday morning of the show with a ribbon cutting ceremony led by Consulate General of India (Australia), Consul General Anish Rajan, and AAAA Commercial Director and Publisher, Cameron McLachlan.

The opening marked a significant step in strengthening ties between the Australian aftermarket industry and India’s rapidly expanding automotive component manufacturing sector, with eight Indian companies exhibiting under the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) banner at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Speaking at the Expo, ACMA Chief Executive Officer of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships, Anil Kumar Unni, said the delegation

was focused on exploring Australia as a potential growth market for Indian-made automotive components.

“We were trying to explore the Australian aftermarket,” Anil said.

“We just wanted to understand the requirements, the market, how they see and perceive India, and if they were willing to look at India as a partner country for sourcing of auto parts.”

Anil said interest in the Pavilion was strong throughout the Expo, with visitors keen to learn more about India’s automotive manufacturing capabilities and export potential.

According to ACMA, India’s automotive component industry now generates turnover of around US$80.2 billion annually, with exports worth approximately US$23 billion, much of it destined for mature markets including the United States and Europe.

The companies exhibiting in Melbourne represented a broad cross-section of India’s component manufacturing sector, including engine components, cylinder liners, valves, castings, coatings, belts and transmission products.

Ranjit Madampath from Rane Group said the Expo had delivered encouraging results as the company looked to rebuild and expand its Australian presence.

“We are OEM suppliers to many customers

BUSINESS LIFECYCLE SEMINAR EXPLORES GROWTH AND EXIT STRATEGIES

Industry consultant urges automotive business owners to plan earlier

Automotive aftermarket business owners were urged to think beyond day-to-day operations and focus on long-term sustainability during the “From Start-Up to Exit: Understanding the Business Lifecycle” seminar at the recent Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo).

Presented by Robert Snook from Business Success Global, the session explored the common growth stages businesses experience, the warning signs owners often overlook, and how workshops can avoid becoming trapped in operational chaos.

Robert told attendees that many business owners unintentionally build businesses that rely too heavily on themselves, ultimately limiting growth and making succession or sale difficult.

“Running a business is not easy, is it?” Robert said. “But one thing that can make it easier is if you know what’s coming next, so you can do something about it before it actually happens.”

The seminar focused heavily on the importance of planning for an eventual business exit from the

very beginning, rather than treating it as a distant ambition.

“We are going to leave our business one day,” Robert said. “Now we either do that on our terms, based on a plan and a strategy to do it well, do it once, do it forever, or the market will decide.”

Throughout the presentation, Robert outlined the emotional and operational stages businesses commonly move through as they grow, including start-up excitement, rapid expansion, stress, frustration, and potential burnout.

He warned many businesses become increasingly dependent on owners who remain deeply involved in daily operations instead of building scalable systems and management structures.

“You are not scalable. Your team is, but you are not,” Robert said.

Robert also argued many profitable businesses still fail because owners become consumed by operations and lose sight of strategic planning, cashflow management, and long-term structure.

worldwide,” Ranjit said, listing brands including BMW, Volkswagen and Rolls-Royce among the company’s customers.

“We were very much interested to get into the aftermarket side because we wanted to explore more in Australia.”

KSC Engineers VP Marketing, Ish Sethi, said the Australian market presented strong future potential.

“It has been an eye-opening experience for us and we’ll continue exploring what opportunities exist in the Australian market,” Ish said.

The Indian Pavilion was just one of the international delegations at the Expo, with strong pavilions from China, Taiwan, Thailand, and South Korea also present.

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

A major theme of the seminar was the importance of building businesses that could eventually operate independently from their founders.

Robert encouraged attendees to focus on systems, culture, scalability, branding, and leadership development long before considering succession or sale.

“Build the business like you mean to sell it, even if you never do,” he said.

Robert said owners who understood the business lifecycle early were far more likely to retain profitability, reduce stress, and create long-term value for both themselves and future business leaders.

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

NAPA SHOWCASES INTEGRATED TRADE SOLUTIONS

It was a busy AAAExpo for NAPA as they met with a record number of show attendees

Specialist automotive trade parts supplier, NAPA, showcased the best of its know-how alongside engaging activities stand activities at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo).

NAPA, which says it is Australia’s largest automotive aftermarket parts provider for trade, industrial and mining customers, offered the record number of visitors to this year’s AAAExpo the chance to explore its range and expertise across automotive electrical, air conditioning, 4x4, and servicing products as well as an array of workshop tools, equipment and consumables from trusted brands.

Visitors were able to interact with NAPA PROLink, the brand’s leading online automotive parts catalogue and ordering system, which makes it easy for trade, industrial, and mining customers across Australia and New Zealand to access the parts and support they need.

“This year’s NAPA exhibitors stand was all about bringing to life and sharing our integrated business solutions,” NAPA Chief Merchandise and Growth Officer, Wayne Bryant, said.

“Visitors got to see first-hand how NAPA’s products and support systems, such as NAPA PROLink, underpin our Power of Partnership approach with the trade businesses that rely on us for specialist parts and equipment know-how they need every day.”

Multiple Australian Sprintcar champion James McFadden joined guests at the NAPA exhibitors stand.

The NAPA-sponsored driver held a meet and greet with fans keen for autographs and selfies, and spoke with visitors.

Visitors were also able to enjoy some fun at the NAPA pool table and foosball table during the three-day industry event.

To learn more about NAPA, visit www.napaparts.com.au

HALL OF FAME HONOUR CELEBRATES ALLAN GRAY’S LEGACY

AAAA recognises Allan Gray OAM for his decades shaping Australia’s automotive aftermarket, technical education, and 4WD industry

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has inducted Allan Gray OAM into its Hall of Fame, recognising a remarkable career that has helped shape Australia’s automotive aftermarket industry across almost eight decades.

Allan was honoured during the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet, where his extraordinary contribution to technical education, 4WD innovation, product development and community service was celebrated by industry leaders and peers.

Born in 1934, Alan’s career has unfolded alongside the evolution of Australia’s automotive industry itself.

Beginning his apprenticeship at just 14 years old in 1948, he entered the trade before the first Holden was even produced in Australia. Throughout the decades that followed, he became one of the country’s most respected figures in the 4WD aftermarket sector, particularly through his pioneering work with Toyota LandCruisers and offroad engineering.

One of his earliest automotive experiences involved working with Thiess on the first Toyota LandCruiser brought into Australia for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme – a project that helped spark his lifelong passion for 4WD vehicles.

Allan later established Allan Gray Toyota Service in 1977, one of only three Australian workshops at the time specialising in Toyota 4WDs. His reputation for diagnosis, practical engineering and honest advice quickly spread throughout the industry.

Away from the workshop, Allan also made his mark in off-road motorsport, claiming victory in the inaugural 1000km Kempsey Off-road Racing event and earning national recognition in the 4WD competition scene.

Following the sale of his workshop in the early 1990s, Allan joined Don Kyatt Spare Parts as Head Engineer for the Terrain Tamer 4WD brand, where he played a major role in refining component reliability, improving installation procedures, and advancing preventative maintenance practices across the aftermarket sector.

Allan also became widely known to Australian four-wheel-drive enthusiasts through the hugely successful “Ask Allan” video series alongside John “Roothy” Rooth. Distributed nationally by 4WD Action magazine, the series helped demystify complex mechanical issues for everyday motorists and earned Allan the nickname “the engine whisperer.”

Even at 92 years of age, Allan continues working

three days a week with Don Kyatt’s, remaining heavily involved in research, development, and troubleshooting modern vehicle technologies.

The Hall of Fame recognition also acknowledged Allan’s broader humanitarian efforts, including decades volunteering with the St Vincent de Paul Society soup van and his “Two-Day Group” micro-philanthropy initiative supporting vulnerable Australians.

“I started just after the war, and it took a while for things to get back to normal. In those days cars were still running with kerosene or mineral turps,” Allan said.

“Parts were very hard to get, so when Holden came out and said they would supply every part we couldn’t believe it because there were cars up on jacks waiting for parts all over the world. It was a very different world back then.

“I was a pretty careless sort of bloke and broke a few parts and in those days that was considered pretty bad. I wonder if things have changed that much, because now I am the head troublemaker in my job there (at Don Kyatt)!

“My job is to look at a part and see if we can break it and smash it and then improve it and make it better. Then test it on our test track, which is out the back of our factory, and then put it back into the Terrain Tamer parts catalogue.

“We are lucky these days to have organisations like AAAA to collect information from and things like Mr Google to refer to.

“I’ll treasure this award and keep it in a special place because it reminds me of all the support that a lot of you people have given me over the years. So, I appreciate it.

“People ask me what keeps me going and there are four things. To question everything that you can possibly be curious about; and to help other people seems to keep my mind and my worries in perspective. I have a belief in a higher power as I believe that keeps me sort of on the right keel in these weird times we’re living in. And finally, don’t barrack for (AFL team) Footscray!” he chuckled. For more information, visit www.donkyatt.com.au

AWARD-WINNING EXPO STANDS SHOWCASE CREATIVITY

AND INDUSTRY

ENGAGEMENT

CoolDrive and Podium claimed top honours in the AAAExpo Best Stand Awards

CoolDrive Auto Parts and Podium took out the major honours in the Best Stand Awards at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), with both exhibitors recognised for creating engaging and visually impressive displays on the Melbourne show floor.

The Best Stand Awards, sponsored by Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine, highlighted exhibitors that combined presentation, functionality and visitor engagement during the three-day industry showcase at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

CoolDrive Auto Parts claimed the Best Stand Award for exhibitors with stands larger than 36 square metres, while Podium won the category for exhibitors with stands 36 square metres and under. For CoolDrive, the award marked recognition for

years of investment in building a standout presence at the biennial event.

CoolDrive Chief Operating Officer, Tim Blanchard, credited the CoolDrive marketing team, led by Anthony Hughes, for the award-winning stand.

A major feature of the CoolDrive display was its distinctive two-storey layout, which has become increasingly rare at trade exhibitions.

The elevated design allowed the business to maximise its footprint while maintaining an open and accessible display area for visitors.

“We’ve expanded the stand this year with our tools and equipment team joining us as well, and it means we can keep the ground floor open for people to come through and see what we do, while still having the upstairs available for meetings,” Tim said.

Tim said the recognition reflected not only the effort invested into the stand itself, but also CoolDrive’s growth within the automotive aftermarket industry.

“I remember coming here 15 years ago and we had a little six-by-three booth with about five or six of us on the stand and a few pull-up banners,” Tim said. “To see how much we’ve grown and to be recognised by the industry is really exciting for everyone involved.”

Podium’s winning display may have been considerably smaller in size, but it delivered strong crowd engagement through interactive elements and a clean, modern design.

Podium Partner Marketing and Events Specialist, Sammie Perrie, said the company focused on creating an energetic and approachable stand experience.

“We’re super grateful for everyone who helped with the stand,” Sammie said.

A race car simulator proved to be one of the biggest drawcards for visitors attending the Expo.

“We tried to keep it interactive and fun,” Sammie said. Despite operating within a compact six-by-three metre footprint, Sammie said the Podium team was determined to make a strong impression.

Podium used the event to showcase its AI-powered customer communication platform for workshops, including its new “Micky AI” virtual assistant technology.

The system is designed to help workshops manage customer phone calls and text communication more efficiently, allowing technicians and workshop staff to focus on repair work rather than administration tasks.

To learn more about CoolDrive Auto Parts and Podium, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au and www.podium.com

A DRIVE INTO THE PAST WITH BENDIX AT THE 2026 AAAEXPO

Visitors to the record-breaking AAAExpo were taken on a trip down memory lane with Bendix and Trico

Bendix, a preferred brand of replacement brake products for the Australian auto trade, along with Trico, one of the world’s leading windscreen wiper manufacturers and marketers, were on show within an outstanding retro stand design that proved extremely popular with Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) visitors.

The Bendix and Trico stand focused on storytelling, complete with valuable vintage props that made you feel like you were stopping into a service station along the Australian outback in the 1950s.

The theme of the stand showcased Bendix’ proud Australian heritage, reinforcing how Bendix has been an important part of Australian automotive workshops since 1955.

While the major theme was indeed an automotive trip back in time, a focus on the present and the future was also strongly featured with Max the Bendix Robot, a star of the show who walked with, followed, high-fived and danced with visitors throughout the three-day event.

Parked in the retro service station was the outback modified Bendix Camaro in the company’s spectacular Bendix and Trico Supercar livery which also proved to be a popular photo stop for many visitors.

A selection of quality Bendix and Trico product ranges were also vividly showcased on the stand, with FMP Australia’s friendly staff on hand to meet and greet the record number of AAAExpo visitors (over 15,000) who took part this year.

This stand also showcased and celebrated a proud Australian victory with Bendix winning the AAAExpo Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product (Electrical) for the Bendix Ultimate Tow+ Portable Electric Brake Controller.

“We were so impressed by the visitor numbers this year and the interest that they showed in our Bendix and Trico products throughout the event,” FMP Australia Vice President Asia Pacific, George Kyriakopoulos, said.

“It is always excellent to meet our customers face

to face at these major trade shows, gaining valuable feedback on our products from the workshop floor.

“We were also delighted to win the Most Innovative Product Award – Electrical as we were competing with quality products from all over the world, so this was a big win for our highly talented Australian design team.”

For more from Bendix, visit www.bendix.com.au

NEXT GEN SUCCESS SHOWCASED WITH 2026 AAAEXPO FLYING SPANNERS

This special Expo event was designed to promote and celebrate the industry’s emerging talent

A high-energy feature of the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) was the event’s unique Flying Spanners technician competition.

This technician’s challenge was held throughout each day of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest auto aftermarket industry trade show.

Now in its third iteration, the Flying Spanners competition places the spotlight firmly on the industry’s future, showcasing our next generation of automotive technicians through a series of fastpaced, hands-on challenges located on the Expo floor, ensuring visitor participation.

The 2026 AAAExpo Flying Spanners competition delivered an engaging, spectator-friendly competition that highlighted the skill, speed, and technical capability of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry’s emerging technicians.

This special Expo event was designed to promote and celebrate the industry’s emerging talent and featured automotive apprentices representing workshops from all over Australia.

The challenges of the competition combined technical precision, speed, and problem solving in a format that reflects modern workshop demands.

Daily prizes were awarded for the fastest challenge completion times, with Brandon Booth from Taylor Automotive and 4WD in Bomaderry (NSW) crowned the 2026 Flying Spanners Champion.

Second place went to Jaeden D’Aloia from Technique Automotive in Eltham (VIC), and in

third place was Nash Burnes from Accelerate Automotive in Coopers Plains (QLD).

Entertainment and fun were never far away during all three days of Flying Spanners competition, a highlight being this year’s impromptu addition of the Industry Executive Challenge that saw GPC Chief Merchandise and Growth Officer and Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Chairman, Wayne Bryant, take on Burson Auto Parts Acting General Manager – Sales and Marketing, Aaron Robinson.

The two business rivals competed in a hardfought battle (with a little hands-on help from an enthusiastic audience), which saw Aaron Robinson emerge victorious in a close finish.

Another AAAExpo visitor highlight was the Flying Spanners Celebrity Challenge which saw both Blanchard Racing Team Ford Mustang Supercar drivers, James Golding and Aaron Cameron, go head-to-head in an entertaining battle.

In what was an ultra-competitive fight, it was Aaron Cameron who took a very proud Flying Spanners victory. Both BRT drivers took part in a fun Q and A session after their battle, giving AAAExpo visitors a special insight to their careers and the forthcoming Supercar races this season.

“It is really encouraging to see the young talent that the Flying Spanners competition exposes at each major aftermarket industry expo,” Flying Spanners Competition Co-Creator and TAFE NSW Instructor, Kirk Trease, said.

ADRAD PUTS ON EXCLUSIVE SHOW AT AAAEXPO

The team from ADRAD showcased some new and exclusive products at the Expo

Since the previous Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), ADRAD has added thousands of new parts to its range, making it a difficult decision for management as to which products to choose to present this year.

The parts ultimately displayed included ADRAD’s “Crash Pack” which combines the Radiator, Condenser, and Electric Fan for a vehicle (exactly the parts needed when repairing damage caused by a front-end collision).

Over 200 Crash Packs are available for popular vehicle applications, with ADRAD explaining they are a quick way to get a matching set of parts, with the price being cheaper than if you bought the same parts separately.

ADRAD says many visitors to its stand were also interested in the Jrone turbocharger, seeing for themselves the exceptional quality of construction. The company reports these turbochargers have been readily accepted by the market with strong growth in demand across the country.

Visitors were also able to see the new Textar aPad ceramic brake pads, which have been designed to provide silent and clean braking for Asian make vehicles.

These low-dust, long-life brake pads are partnered with Textar’s ePad+ brake pads to suit European makes.

Other ADRAD-branded parts on-show included EGR Coolers, Intercoolers and Intercooler Hoses, Harmonic Balancers, Gas Struts, Fuel Modules, Water Pumps, and Power Steering Pumps.

Aside from the products, the ADRAD stand provided an opportunity for attendees to show off their skills with its Putting Challenge Competition, which had the golfers (and hackers) trying their best to sink a putt. Congratulations to those who were successful and to ADRAD’s prize draw winner of the $500 voucher.

As a manufacturer themselves, ADRAD says it has the engineering skills to identify suppliers that adhere to the necessary quality standards they require.

“We also did a Trainers’ Challenge and none of us, even with all of our experience, could beat the best times that our best apprentices achieved this year. “While the main goal is to demonstrate the skills that automotive technicians need to have, we also manage to have a lot of fun along the way, making it a great addition to the AAAExpo.”

The Flying Spanners competition continues to strengthen the AAAExpo’s focus on practical, realworld skills and workforce development.

Plans are already underway to present an even bigger Flying Spanners automotive apprentice competition at Autocare 2027.

This year’s Flying Spanners competition was proudly sponsored by Burson Auto Parts, Hi-Bolt, WypAll dry wipes, JAX Tyres & Auto, Brembo and Topdon, with technical support from Kangan TAFE (ACE), TAFE NSW and the Australian Automotive Service Dealers Network (AASDN) East Coast.

AAAA also sends special thanks to Kirk and also Mike Carnemolla for their work as competition officials.

To learn more, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

It states this is to maintain ADRAD’s reputation for quality parts that has been built on their cooling products range.

To make it easier to navigate the extensive parts range online, the Natrad Trade website – www. natradtrade.com.au – was recently modified to include a product category filtering so users can locate the parts required even faster.

If you need assistance or for more information, contact ADRAD’s customer service team on 1800 882 043.

HR SEMINAR TACKLES AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY WORKFORCE CHALLENGES

Industry HR leaders shared practical workforce strategies, retention advice and people management insights during interactive AAAExpo seminar session

Automotive industry leaders tackled some of the sector’s biggest workforce challenges during the “HR Hotline: Ask Anything – Live Clinic with HR Professionals” seminar at the recent Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo).

The session brought together senior HR executives from major automotive aftermarket businesses to discuss technician shortages, retention strategies, workplace culture, flexibility and employee wellbeing, while also answering live audience questions.

The panel featured Barbara Harrison from Amotiv, Fiona Murphy from mycar Tyre & Auto, and Aileen Hayes from GPC Asia Pacific.

Fiona said attracting and retaining skilled technicians remained one of the biggest challenges facing the automotive industry, particularly given the length and complexity of training pathways.

“Nothing is quite like the challenge we face in automotive, where the path to capability is so long and requires so much for our apprentices and technicians,” Fiona said.

She noted that workshops across the country

were also feeling pressure from broader economic conditions, with both businesses and employees facing rising living costs and financial strain.

However, the panel stressed that money alone was not the key factor in attracting younger workers into the industry.

Fiona said younger generations were increasingly looking for meaningful careers, ongoing development opportunities and supportive workplace cultures.

“I think there is more than that to our industry. There’s more than that to why people join, and more than that to why people stay,” she said.

Aileen said employee expectations had changed significantly in recent years, with workers placing greater emphasis on respectful leadership, flexibility and career development.

“Gone are the days where you can be a bit more heavy handed, a bit more rough around the edges,” Aileen said.

“Team members are looking for a lot more respect and leadership.”

The seminar also explored practical ways

workshops could support staff through difficult economic conditions, including flexible work arrangements, training opportunities, wellbeing programs and stronger communication.

Barbara encouraged businesses to focus on empathy and meaningful conversations with employees, arguing that workplace culture had become a major differentiator in staff retention.

“Care is increasingly being understood as a key differentiator,” Barbara said.

“What we know is that when there’s care present, retention goes up, (staff) turnover goes down, and productivity goes up.”

The interactive seminar formed part of the extensive training and education program delivered during the Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

HALL OF FAME HONOUR CELEBRATES SHAYNE QUAILE’S CAREER

AAAA recognises Shayne Quaile for decades driving innovation, leadership and industry growth

Shayne Quaile has been recognised for more than 45 years of contribution to Australia’s automotive aftermarket industry, with the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) inducting him into its Hall of Fame.

Shayne was honoured during the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet, where his leadership, strategic vision, and long-standing impact on the automotive aftermarket sector were celebrated by industry colleagues and peers.

Currently serving as GM Merchandise – Automotive Specialist Products at GPC Asia Pacific, Shayne has played a major role in shaping some of the industry’s most influential brands and business operations across Australia and New Zealand.

Beginning his career as an apprentice auto electrician and air conditioning technician in Brisbane in 1981, Shayne steadily built a reputation for technical expertise, commercial insight and strong leadership.

After joining Ingram in 1986 as an auto parts interpreter, Shayne progressed through product management and leadership positions before later being recruited by Ashdown in 2003 as National Sales Manager. His arrival helped modernise

and strengthen the business through improved category management, systems, and strategic planning.

One of Shayne’s most significant contributions came during the merger of Ashdown and Ingram, where he played a key role in helping unite the rival organisations and establish the foundations of what later became the NAPA business across Australia and New Zealand. His leadership during the integration period helped stabilise the newly merged business following the departure of senior executives to a competing operation, allowing the company to rebuild and emerge as a clear market leader.

Throughout his career, Shayne has also been recognised for driving innovation and product development within the aftermarket sector. Among the programs he helped champion was the “Ashdown Ingram Difference – Your Professional Advantage” customer value proposition, which repositioned the business around professionalgrade service, support and product quality – principles that continue within the NAPA operation today.

Shayne also played a major role in expanding the

OEX brand from a niche starter motor and alternator business into one of Australia’s largest aftermarket electrical brands.

His influence extended into introducing innovative products to the Australian market, including the highly successful CTEK charger range and the Great White and Black Tip driving light programs. In addition to his commercial achievements, Shayne has built a reputation as a respected mentor and collaborative leader known for integrity, humility, and supporting the professional growth of others throughout the industry.

For more information, visit www.gpcasiapac.com

DOUG STEINDL RECOGNISED WITH KIM AUNGER AWARD

The award is presented in honour of one of the founders and former Presidents of the AAAA Board of Directors, Kim Aunger, who tragically lost his life whilst still in his prime

Zeder Corporation’s Head of Digital and Retail Operations, Doug Steindl, was celebrated at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards as the 2026 Kim Aunger Young Achiever Award winner. Since 1992 this award has recognised inspiring young achievers in the Australia Automotive Aftermarket Industry who have demonstrated leadership, vision, and innovation.

29-year-old Doug has built scalable digital, retail, and B2B models that strengthen independent workshops, improve customer outcomes, and support sustainable network growth; halving corporate workshop breakeven from six to three months, underpinning plans for eight-10 new corporate stores, and converting 50 percent of online orders into more than 15,000 paid workshop bookings.

He has also led rollout of a global website framework delivering 22 percent online revenue growth, and built Click & Fit, an online-to-workshop model responsible for 60 percent of an 82 percent lift in online revenue, launched Zeder’s Hanoi operations hub, and significantly improved performance,

retention, and professionalism across teams, while training around 30 people into leadership pathways and driving a large-scale suspension education program.

“Winning this award is a really proud moment for me. Recognition like this means a lot at any stage of your career, but as a young person in the aftermarket industry it carries extra weight. It shows that the work is being noticed and that there’s a real future here for people like me. That’s a great feeling to walk away with,” Doug said.

“It is also a reflection of what my team has built together. None of what I have achieved would be possible without the people I work with every day, and the results we’ve delivered have been a group effort from start to finish. Leading a team like that has been the highlight for me so far.

“Of course, a win like this doesn’t happen without the right opportunities behind it either. Zeder has given me the kind that can really shape a career, and not every person gets that. There’s room to keep growing here, which is exactly what you want at this stage.

JOHN BLANCHARD HONOURED WITH OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO INDUSTRY AWARD

The award acknowledges individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the automotive aftermarket sector

CoolDrive Auto Parts Executive Chairman, John Blanchard was recognised for his outstanding contribution to the automotive aftermarket industry at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), receiving the prestigious ‘Outstanding Service to the Industry’ award.

John was recognised for his more than four decades of leadership, innovation, industry development, and commitment to supporting both CoolDrive customers and employees.

John joined the family business in 1984, building on the strong foundations established by his parents W.J and Shirley Blanchard, who established Automotive Imports Pty Ltd in 1977.

Initially operating from the family garage, the business specialised in passenger vehicle airconditioning components and technical expertise. While studying to become a Chartered Accountant, John worked across multiple areas of the CoolDrive business, managing finances while also assisting in the warehouse packing orders.

This hands-on experience provided John a strong understanding of operations, logistics and customer service, helping shape his long-standing belief in the importance of relationships, reliability and investing in people.

Appointed CoolDrive’s Chief Executive Officer in 1996, John led the business through a period of substantial growth and transformation over the following 28 years.

Under John’s leadership, CoolDrive expanded to become one of Australasia’s preferred automotive parts distributors, employing close to 1,000 staff across 38 branches across Australia and New Zealand.

Today, CoolDrive distributes a comprehensive range of automotive products including airconditioning, braking, electrical accessories, engine cooling, engine management, rotating electrical, tools and equipment, underbody and suspension, and workshop products to customers across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Importantly, throughout its growth, CoolDrive has remained 100 percent Australian family owned and operated, reflecting John’s strong commitment to long-term investment in local industry and the ongoing development of the automotive aftermarket sector.

“Receiving this recognition from the industry is incredibly humbling,” John Blanchard said.

“When my parents started the business nearly 50

“All of that is what makes this such a big moment for me, and one I won’t forget. It is recognition I’m proud of, but it’s also a credit to my team and the opportunities Zeder has put in front of me. There’s still plenty of room to keep growing from here, which is what makes it exciting.”

Zeder Corporation also received the Excellence in Employee Engagement and Wellbeing Award at the Banquet, in recognition for its Workforce Reform Program.

For more information, visit www.zedercorp.com

years ago from the family garage, I don’t think any of us could have imagined what CoolDrive would grow to become today.

“I have been fortunate to work alongside so many passionate and dedicated people throughout my career, from our staff and customers to suppliers and industry colleagues, and this award is something I’m very proud to share with them.

“The automotive aftermarket industry is built on relationships, trust, and a willingness to continually evolve, and it has been a privilege to be part of that journey.”

John Blanchard’s career continues to exemplify customer service excellence, progressive leadership, quality product supply, and industry advancement, making him a highly deserving recipient of the AAAA Outstanding Service to Industry Award.

For further information on CoolDrive Auto Parts, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au

REPCO WINS MARKETING AWARD FOR BRINGIN’ THE BATHURST BUS TOURS

Repco took out the Most Innovative Marketing Award at this year’s AAAExpo

At the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards, part of the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), Repco was recognised with the Most Innovative Marketing Award for turning one of Australia’s greatest sporting moments into a full-throttle brand experience.

The Award celebrated the 2025 instalment of Repco’s annual ‘Bringin’ The Bathurst’ campaign, this year brought to life as the unforgettable Bathurst Bus Tours.

In a competitive retail environment, Repco set itself a clear challenge to strengthen and grow its customer base and retail sales. It explains the answer was to go bigger, celebrate the legends, and make it Bathurst.

Those behind the campaign explain that Bringin’ The Bathurst Bus Tours wasn’t just a TV ad; it extended well beyond, launching during peak sporting moments to capture national attention, shaping the conversation in the lead-up to the race, showing up on billboards along the physical

journey to Mount Panorama, and fuelling ongoing engagement through social, broadcast and race weekend coverage – ensuring Repco was part of the Bathurst experience from build-up to chequered flag.

Developed in partnership with brand agency Thinkerbell and brought to market with Omnicom’s Initiative, Bringin’ The Bathurst Bus Tours hijacked the early build-up to the Repco Bathurst 1000, tapping into the six-week crescendo of anticipation that motorsport fans live for.

The hero TVC followed two unsuspecting tourists on a chaotic bus ride up Mount Panorama – part history lesson, part adrenaline rush. Along the way, it revisited iconic moments from Great Race folklore, including Dick Johnson’s 1983 crash and the infamous 2005 Murphy-Ambrose clash, culminating in a surprise on-screen reunion of the two racing legends.

Packed with Easter Eggs for diehard fans but accessible enough for newcomers, the campaign struck the balance Repco prides itself on – talking

AFTERMARKET HALL OF FAME WELCOMES

AAAA has honoured Steve Broad for decades spent advancing Australian aftermarket innovation, exports, partnerships and international industry influence

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has inducted Steve “Broady” Broad into its Hall of Fame, recognising more than 45 years of contribution to Australia’s automotive aftermarket industry.

Steve was honoured during the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet, where industry leaders celebrated his long-standing impact on aftermarket innovation, export growth, strategic partnerships, and international business development.

Widely regarded as one of the industry’s bestknown and most respected figures, Steve has played a major role in helping Australian aftermarket brands establish global reputations for quality, innovation and performance.

Steve’s career began with roles at Peak Performance, Stewarts Auto Gear and Hawker Pacific, where he worked with globally recognised brands including ArmorAll and WD-40.

His success in developing those brands within the Australian market quickly earned him a strong reputation for commercial leadership and strategic thinking.

Later, during his time with Kelray Australia, Steve relaunched PowerPlus, secured national manufacturing and distribution rights for Turtle Wax and oversaw a multi-brand portfolio supplying

shop when it counts, but never making anyone feel like they need a pit crew to keep up.

“Winning this award is a real recognition of the passion and hard work of the team and our worldclass agency partners and of course the team at Supercars,” Repco Executive General Manager Marketing, Mitch Wiley, said.

“But what makes us proud is that this campaign genuinely connects with what gets race fans going.

“We don’t just sponsor the Repco Bathurst 1000 – we are part of the crew. We get the passion, because we feel it too.”

To learn more about Repco, visit www.repco.com.au

STEVE BROAD

many of Australia’s largest automotive retailers and aftermarket businesses.

Steve also became a major force behind the global success of Nolathane and Whiteline while serving as a shareholder and director of Redranger.

Through partnerships forged across the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States, he helped position Australia as a world leader in performance suspension technology.

Under his leadership, the business secured multiple AAAA Marketing and Export Awards, Repco Supplier of the Year honours, and SEMA media awards recognising its international impact.

Since joining Pedders Suspension & Brakes in 2014 as Business Development Manager, OEM and Global, Steve has helped transform the company’s international footprint.

Among his achievements has been leading Pedders’ expansion into the United States, United Kingdom and European markets, securing OEM partnerships with brands including Isuzu, Subaru and MS-RT, and supporting the development of bespoke suspension solutions for overseas markets.

Steve also played a key role in Pedders becoming the first Australian company awarded Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Global Premium Partner certification for suspension solutions and lift kits.

Another major milestone under his leadership was the attainment of Stellantis Level 3 Quality Certification, opening opportunities with brands including RAM, Citroën, Peugeot and Fiat.

Beyond commercial success, Steve has built a strong reputation as a mentor and advocate for industry development, helping guide numerous colleagues through successful aftermarket careers.

In recognising Steve’s Hall of Fame induction, the AAAA highlighted his honesty, integrity, passion and enduring commitment to advancing Australia’s automotive aftermarket industry both locally and internationally.

For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au

DON KYATT HERALDED FOR EXPORT EXCELLENCE AT AAAEXPO

From small business beginnings, Don Kyatt is now a global powerhouse

Don Kyatt’s Excellence in Export award acknowledged the company’s remarkable international expansion and sustained export growth.

Having opened their first international branch in 1986, through its iconic brands Terrain Tamer 4WD Parts and Flashlube additives and lubricants, Don Kyatt has transformed from a small business into a truly global exporter.

Proudly Australian family-founded and still family owned, Don Kyatt now serves customers in more than 80 countries through nine company-owned international branches (as well as a further 10 in Australia) and a network of more than 50 independent stockists.

Export sales have more than doubled over the past five years, with projections continuing to rise as the company expands.

“What sets Don Kyatt apart is not just its scale, but its spirit,” Don Kyatt Spare Parts Chief Executive Officer, Brent Hutchinson, said.

“Every international expansion has been driven by a genuine belief that Australian engineering, durability and innovation deserve a place in the most demanding markets on earth.

“We benefit from all those many very successful

exporters, who have ensured brand Australia is well respected. To be awarded on the night was a credit to our entire organisation, that includes our customers and our manufacturers who have helped us develop a world class range.

“We are a product of our industry and sit between the high demands our customers have and what our manufacturers are capable of.

“We don’t have an export strategy; we have a customer strategy. The fact that half of our customers sit outside Australia is irrelevant to them if we get our logistics right. We then take on all the complexity to ensure they are supplied in the Don Kyatt way, which is always fast and as effortlessly as possible.”

It was a banner night for Don Kyatt Spare Parts at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Awards, with its recognition in Export complemented by further honours across marketing, innovation, and industry leadership.

A further highlight of the evening for Don Kyatt came with Allan Gray OAM’s induction into the Automotive Aftermarket Hall of Fame.

At 92 years of age, Allan continues to work with Don Kyatt Spare Parts and remains one of the

most respected figures in Australia’s 4WD and automotive industry.

Brent said the awards reflect the dedication and passion of the entire Don Kyatt team.

“To be recognised across so many different areas of the business was incredibly humbling,” Brent said. “These awards recognise the hard work, innovation and commitment that has shaped our company over many decades.

“We are extremely proud of the entire team and honoured to see Allan receive such well-deserved recognition for his lifetime contribution to the industry.”

To learn more about Don Kyatt, visit www.donkyatt.com.au

REDARC REWARDED FOR MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE

At the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet, REDARC Electronics was recognised with the Excellence in Manufacturing Award.

In the quest for manufacturing excellence there are a number of competing forces that need to be managed. Increasing manufacturing efficiencies, raising quality, reducing downtime, improving agility and ultimately improving profitability.

Winners of this award have proven that while it is a challenge, by investing in research, embracing innovation, and predicting future trends, it is possible to develop a competitive advantage through focusing on continual manufacturing improvement.

REDARC was also recognised at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast, where it

received the Automotive Business Sustainability Award.

This award recognises automotive businesses, small or large, who have made significant changes across its business to significantly reduce environmental impact and become more environmentally sustainable.

By investing in the health, safety, and education of its people, from apprentices to PhD researchers, alongside a $50m Advanced Manufacturing and Technology Hub, REDARC has created a scalable, competitive manufacturing operation.

At the same time, it has established itself as a benchmark for environmental leadership within the Australian Automotive Aftermarket sector.

Over the past four years, the manufacturer has undergone a systemic transformation to integrate sustainability into the fabric of its manufacturing processes, product design, and supply chain logistics, achieving a 60 percent reduction in scope one and two emissions, transitioning to 100 percent renewable electricity, and maintaining a 98 percent landfill diversion rate.

“As a proud Australian manufacturer, REDARC sees the highly coveted Excellence Awards as recognition of what advanced Australian manufacturing can achieve on the world stage,”

REDARC Electronics Managing Director, Anthony Kittel, said.

“The Excellence in Manufacturing Award reflects our continuous improvement mindset, ongoing investment in R&D, and the commitment by our team to designing and producing world-class power management and towing solutions in Lonsdale, South Australia.

“That same mindset guides our approach to community and environmental responsibility across the business.

“The Automotive Sustainability Business Award recognises this commitment, as well as our focus on building products that stand the test of time and support a greener future.”

For more information, visit www.redarcelectronics.com

INDUSTRY LEADERS URGE WORKSHOPS TO BACK SMARTER INVESTMENTS

Aftermarket leaders say workshops must prioritise people, profitability, and customer trust to remain competitive amid rapid technological change

Australia’s automotive aftermarket industry is facing its biggest transformation in decades, with industry leaders warning workshops must make smarter investment decisions now to remain profitable and competitive into the future.

That was the central message delivered during the seminar “The Aftermarket’s Next Advantage: Making Smart Bets Now” at the recent AAAExpo. Hosted by Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, the session brought together some of the sector’s most influential executives, including Rob Cameron of GPC Asia Pacific, Brad Gannon of Capricorn Society, and Chris Wilesmith of BAPCOR.

Opening the discussion, Stuart said the aftermarket was at an “inflection point” as vehicles become increasingly software-defined, connected and reliant on data.

“The challenge is clear. How do you protect today’s profitability while investing to build the capability of tomorrow?” Stuart told the audience.

Rob said the pace of change confronting workshops today was unprecedented.

“The amount of change that’s happened just in the last four years is actually more than maybe the previous 40 years,” Rob said.

He explained that workshops were shifting from a traditional mechanical repair model towards one increasingly driven by systems, diagnostics, data, and customer experience.

“Workshops that are busy are not necessarily profitable,” Rob said.

“The jobs are changing; they’re becoming more complex; there’s more diagnostics to it; there’s probably fewer cars coming through the bays.”

The panel repeatedly returned to the themes of customer trust and transparency as critical competitive advantages for independent workshops.

Rob described a recent dental appointment where the dentist visually explained the work required using digital imaging and X-rays.

“It creates trust,” Rob said.

“The arguing about whether it’s a $500 repair or $1000 service repair kind of goes out the window because you can see it needs to be done.”

Brad agreed, describing modern technicians as “knowledge workers” whose expertise needed to be properly valued and charged for.

“The great opportunity for the industry is to really

recognise the wonderful skill that the industry has,” Brad said.

Continuing the analogy of visiting a dentist, he argued workshops needed to become more confident charging for diagnostic time and technical expertise, rather than relying primarily on margins from parts sales.

“You don’t go to the dentist and go, ‘What’s wrong with my mouth?’ and hope for a free diagnosis,” Brad said.

Chris said workshops needed to better understand customer satisfaction, identify pain points and create stronger customer experiences.

“Trust comes through transparency and actually listening, hearing their needs, and delivering,” Chris said.

All three executives stressed that people remained the most important investment workshops could make, particularly amid ongoing technician shortages and rapidly changing vehicle technology.

“We’ve got a 30,000 shortfall of people in the industry right now across workshops,” Chris said.

The panel also highlighted the importance of training, workplace culture and retaining skilled staff, with Chris urging workshop owners not to fear investing in employees.

“Forget about the potential loss of them, the inefficiency of them if they’re not trained (is a worse outcome),” Chris said.

“Keep investing in them and creating the right environment for them to want to stay.”

Artificial intelligence also emerged as a significant future opportunity for workshops.

Rob suggested AI-powered diagnostic tools could help address skill shortages and improve workshop efficiency.

“I wonder whether workshops are thinking about AI and how to use that, and does that help some of the skills shortage?” Rob said.

The discussion also touched on the growing importance of telematics and vehicle data

access, with Rob warning vehicle manufacturers were increasingly capable of directly controlling customer relationships through connected vehicle technology.

“That’s a bloody big risk,” he said.

“These car makers are getting smart, and they haven’t turned on all of their power yet.”

Stuart said the AAAA was actively preparing for future battles over telematics and data access, following the industry’s successful Right to Repair campaign.

The panel also explored the importance of benchmarking and operational discipline within workshops, with Rob encouraging operators to better understand labour utilisation, productivity and profit leakage.

“Operate a really, really great workshop,” Rob said. “The ones that are making it work are the ones that have got unbelievably good people, and then really good process discipline.”

Brad added that workshops needed to stop focusing solely on price-sensitive customers and instead build long-term relationships with motorists who genuinely valued expertise and trust.

“For all those customers that are just purely about price, they’re just going to shop around to the next workshop,” Brad said.

“You want people you can have a proper long-term relationship with that will respect the knowledge and skill that you bring.”

Throughout the session, the panellists consistently emphasised that workshops did not need to do everything at once, but they did need to invest wisely, understand their numbers and remain focused on profitability.

“Cash flow is king,” Rob said.

“But you’ve got to do the right level of investment now to make sure that you’re relevant into the future.”

For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

CHELSEA LAWSON NAMED 2026 WOMAN AT THE WHEEL AWARD WINNER

The award honours her industry impact and growing leadership as a champion for women

Brisbane-based automotive technician, mentor, and industry advocate Chelsea Lawson was announced as the 2026 Woman at the Wheel Award winner at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards.

The Woman at the Wheel Award recognises women who are making a meaningful contribution to the automotive aftermarket, celebrating leadership, skill, resilience, and the willingness to step forward.

A qualified light vehicle mechanic, Chelsea has built her career from the workshop floor and continues to demonstrate the skill, resilience, and generosity that make her a strong role model for others in the industry.

Based in Brisbane, Chelsea is currently a qualified technician at John Edwards Automotive, where she continues to work in the trade she loves.

She has also previously worked in project coordination with MTA Queensland, a role that reflected her broader commitment to workforce development, mentoring, and industry engagement. Perhaps most importantly, Chelsea has become known for the work she does to support the next

generation of women entering automotive careers, regularly speaking to students about careers in the industry.

Her recognition as the 2026 Woman at the Wheel Award winner follows a series of achievements that already mark her as one of the industry’s emerging leaders.

Amongst other accolades, Chelsea was the recipient of the 2023 Capricorn Rising Star Award and was named the 2025 Young Gunnette Award winner by Transport Women Australia Limited, an award that recognises talented young women contributing to the transport and automotive sectors.

But what makes Chelsea’s story so compelling is not just the list of awards. It is what sits behind them.

Chelsea is part of a new generation of automotive professionals who are changing the way the industry talks about careers, apprenticeships, and women in trades. She is practical, grounded and credible, but also highly visible, positive and generous in the way she encourages others.

As well as being heralded at the Australian

Banquet, Chelsea was a key guest at AAAExpo’s Friday AAAAWomen networking event – a highlight of the show which brought together around 100 people ready to connect and support each other. At this event, AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, joined with Repco Authorised Service (RAS) Communications Manager, Susanne Tucker, to bring Chelsea to the front of the room to be recognised by her peers, before speaking on a range of subjects around the aims of AAAAWomen while encouraging attendees to take part in its recently relaunched Connection Circles program, which offers opportunities for women to connect, learn, and grow.

TRUST AND TRANSPARENCY DRIVE WORKSHOP LOYALTY

New Australian research reveals communication and transparency increasingly shape customer loyalty in automotive workshops

Fresh market intelligence unveiled at the recent AAAExpo has revealed that trust, transparency, and proactive communication matter more to workshop customers than price alone.

A seminar, titled “What Customers Really Want – It’s Not What You Think”, presented exclusive research commissioned by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) and conducted by research partner Fifth Quadrant. AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, said the research was designed to uncover the deeper motivations behind workshop loyalty and customer retention.

“Every time we run an Expo, we try to do some market intelligence, something that we think you might really be interested to hear about,” Lesley said.

“We surveyed workshops to ask them what they think customers value the most from them, and we did a deep dive into consumers to see what really matters to them.”

Presenting the findings, Ben Selwyn from Fifth Quadrant, said the research showed workshops were already doing many things well, but there remained opportunities to strengthen customer relationships through more consistent communication and personalised service.

The study surveyed more than 1000 Australian

consumers alongside aftermarket workshops, examining customer behaviours, workshop preferences and service experiences.

According to Ben, around 60 percent of motorists said they had a regular workshop they trusted, while 13 percent remained undecided and regularly changed providers.

Importantly, the research found customers were willing to pay significantly more for workshops they trusted.

“Just under seven in 10 said that they would pay more for a workshop they trust,” Ben said.

When consumers were asked to place a value on that trust, the average customer would require a discount of almost $117 on a $600 service bill before switching workshops.

Transparency also emerged as a major theme throughout the presentation.

Customers increasingly want to understand what is happening with their vehicles during servicing, including clear explanations, itemised quotes and visual evidence for the need of repairs.

“What they’re telling us is that transparency, having clarity around what’s going on, what needs to be done, clear itemised upfront quotes, knowing what’s going to happen and seeing proof, is very important,” Ben said.

The research showed 71 percent of consumers felt more comfortable approving repairs when workshops provided photographic or video evidence of issues, yet only around one quarter of workshops had such practices built consistently into their standard processes.

Proactive communication was another area highlighted for improvement.

While workshops were generally strong at contacting customers when additional repairs were needed, fewer than one quarter of consumers reported receiving routine progress updates during servicing.

Ben said simple updates could help customers feel more engaged and informed throughout the process. For more from the AAAExpo, visit www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

A FULL RANGE OF SERVICING PARTS

When you are servicing European vehicles, quality parts aren’t optional, they are essential

Unique Auto Parts says one call to its team gives your workshop access to the right components, the right brands, and the right support every time. The comprehensive range covers trusted, high quality parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Audi, Volvo, Peugeot, Renault, Porsche, Citroën, Land Rover, Range Rover, and Mini

Unique Auto Parts says stock levels remain strong, with containers arriving regularly to ensure availability of the most in demand service essentials – including filters, brakes, wipers, oils, and additives for both passenger and light commercial vehicles.

A standout product line is TJ Filters, a respected brand of more than 40 years which in recent years has been revitalised by Quinton Hazell (QH) and is imported into Australia exclusively by Unique Auto Parts.

The TJ Filters range includes oil, air, fuel, and cabin filters, all engineered for precision fit and dependable performance.

Unique Auto Parts is also the exclusive Australian importer of Carlube, a complete range of high quality oils and lubricants formulated for modern vehicles.

The Carlube lineup covers engine, transmission, differential, power steering, and brake systems.

The range in stock also includes Bluecol coolants and a selection of additions designed to clean, protect and maintain vehicle efficiency.

Brake components are said to be another core strength of Unique Auto Parts, with JP Group zinc coated brake discs delivering the durability, corrosion resistance, and stable thermal performance European vehicles rely on.

For workshops seeking an alternative premium option, Zimmermann brake components are also available.

To learn more, visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au

AWARD-WINNING VALVOLINE RESTORE & PROTECT ENGINE OIL

Valvoline’s Restore & Protect Engine Oil was recognised as an Innovation Leader at the AAAExpo

At the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast, Valvoline’s Restore & Protect Engine Oil was awarded as the Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product in the Performance category.

Valvoline says its Restore & Protect is “the first and only engine oil that prevents future deposit formation and restores pistons to factory clean by removing up to 99 percent of enginekilling deposits with continuous use,# resetting expectations on what an engine oil can do.

Valvoline states that other synthetics that claim to clean engines simply capture carbon from the combustion process, but Restore & Protect does even more.

As soon as an engine is cranked for the first time, critical parts of the engine start building up deposits, accelerating aging and reducing its life. Restore & Protect actively cleans engines, helping return pistons to factory clean conditions with continuous use#.

To achieve this, Restore & Protect features two new breakthrough innovations, Active Clean technology, which actively removes damaging deposits, and Liqui-Shield, which is engineered to protect engine surfaces against future deposit formation.

Why is removing engine deposits important?

Piston and piston ring function are vital for maximum performance. Pistons and piston rings must move freely within tight tolerances and with exacting balance.

Piston rings are designed to float (expand and contract) based on the piston stroke. Proper piston ring function maximises power by forming the right seal during combustion; protection by optimising the oil layer on cylinder walls; and cooling by removing hot oil from pistons and cylinders.

Engine oil prefers clean metal surfaces for the optimal protective oil film to support engine compression and protection.

Fuel, condensation (water), and combustion byproducts create contaminants and break down engine oil.

Deposits and varnish inhibit the formation of the oil film on the metal surface and can prevent antiwear additives, detergents, and friction modifiers from forming an effective protect layer.

Deposits and varnish also insulate metal surfaces and do not allow heat to be removed effectively, leading to higher engine operating temperatures (which can lead to even more deposits).

With Restore & Protect, when used as directed, it actively restores pistons, decreasing the likelihood of the negative implications fuel, water and combustion by-products create.

The results are clear

Valvoline explains that its Restore & Protect has been tested in the Valvoline Engine Lab against the toughest conditions.

It states all the data showed fewer deposits, less varnish “and results no other engine oil could produce.”

Further, it says Restore & Protect provides 79 percent greater wear protection versus industry standards*.

Valvoline says these results sees Restore & Protect “ultimately transforming the automotive landscape and demonstrating Valvoline’s unwavering dedication to pioneering innovative solutions.”

For more information, visit www.valvolineglobal.com.au

#Up to 99 percent piston deposit removal when used as directed for four or more consecutive oil changes at standard maintenance intervals. Based on adapted sequence IIIH testing.

*VS. GF-6 qualified oil.

SERVICING

HAYNESPRO DELIVERING CONFIDENCE

As vehicles become more complex, workshops need more than experience and instinct to keep jobs moving

They need fast, reliable access to the right technical information at the right time.

Infopro Digital Automotive says HaynesPro is designed to support that need, giving automotive professionals the data, guidance, and confidence to diagnose, service, and repair modern vehicles efficiently.

From guided diagnostics and repair procedures to maintenance information, service schedules, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings, HaynesPro is said to bring essential workshop knowledge together in one practical platform. Instead of losing valuable time searching across multiple sources, technicians can quickly access the information they need to make informed decisions, reduce delays, and deliver accurate repairs for their customers.

For independent workshops, that confidence matters, with customers expecting fast turnaround, clear advice, and repairs completed correctly the first time.

HaynesPro reportedly helps support that standard by making technical data easier to find, easier to

use, and easier to apply in day-to-day workshop operations.

Whether the job involves routine servicing, fault tracing, or a more complex repair, having dependable information at hand can help improve productivity and build customer trust.

Following the recent Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo), the Infopro Digital Automotive team says it was pleased to connect with workshops, suppliers, and industry partners to discuss the role of trusted data in the future of the aftermarket.

The company states the conversations at the event reinforced what many repairers already know: as vehicle technology advances, access to accurate, connected and practical information is becoming essential for efficient workshop performance.

While HaynesPro remains its key focus for workshop repair and technical information, it also forms part of a broader connected data ecosystem from Infopro Digital Automotive.

OATS supports accurate oils, lubricants and fluids data, helping identify the right products for the right vehicle applications.

DriveRightData provides tyre and wheel fitment data to support accurate product selection and compatibility.

Together, Infopro Digital Automotive says these solutions help connect critical aftermarket information across servicing, parts, fluids, and fitment.

For Australian workshops, trusted data is no longer just a convenience – it is an important part of working smarter, improving efficiency, and meeting customer expectations.

Infopro Digital Automotive says HaynesPro helps put that information in technicians’ hands, supporting better decisions, more efficient repairs, and stronger customer relationships.

To learn more, contact apac@infopro-digital.com or visit www.infopro-digital-automotive.com

SERVICING

WHY SUPPLY CHAIN CERTAINTY MATTERS MORE THAN EVER FOR WORKSHOPS

A lubricant supplier is no longer just a product provider – they are a critical supply chain partner

The Australian automotive aftermarket is no stranger to disruption. Over the past five years, workshops and trade businesses have faced everything from pandemic related freight delays to raw material shortages, rising operating costs, and ongoing economic pressure.

Now, with escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including the ongoing Iran conflict and instability across global oil markets, the lubricants industry is once again entering a period of uncertainty.

Penrite says that for workshops across Australia, this creates a critical business question: can your lubricant supplier continue to deliver consistent supply, stable support, and reliable service when market conditions tighten?

Historically, global conflict in oil producing regions has had a direct flow on effect to base oil pricing, freight costs, and lubricant manufacturing inputs. While no one can predict how long current tensions may continue, the industry is already seeing increased volatility in global crude prices and concerns around shipping routes, energy costs, and supply continuity.

For independent workshops, these disruptions can quickly become operational problems. Delayed

deliveries, inconsistent stock availability and sudden price movements can impact servicing schedules, customer retention, and overall workshop profitability.

That is why the conversation around lubricants is shifting beyond simply price per litre. More workshops are now looking closely at supplier capability, inventory strength, and long-term reliability.

For workshops managing growing vehicle complexity, tighter booking schedules and increasing customer expectations, dependable supply has become essential – missing stock on high volume service grades or specialised OEM specification oils can create unnecessary downtime and force workshops into reactive purchasing decisions which erode margins.

Penrite says the reality is that workshops need partners with strong national distribution, local inventory holdings, and proven operational resilience, with businesses with domestic blending capability, local warehousing, and national distribution networks especially equipped to manage external supply pressures compared to suppliers heavily reliant on overseas finished product imports.

Beyond supply certainty, Penrite says workshops

WHEN SERVICING OPENS THE DOOR TO SMARTER PARTS STOCKING

Servicing is a key driver of aftermarket demand

Australia’s servicing market continues to be shaped by a simple reality: vehicles are staying on the road for longer, and workshops are seeing a broader mix of makes, models and repair requirements.

For parts wholesalers and resellers, that makes range depth and dependable aftermarket supply more important than ever.

A service booking may begin with routine maintenance, but it often leads to a wider repair discussion once the vehicle is inspected.

Suspension wear, tired bushings, steering components, and rubber-to-metal parts are common findings, particularly on vehicles that have covered higher kilometres or are being kept in service longer than usual.

These are not always the most visible parts of the job, but they play an important role in vehicle feel, tyre wear, and general roadworthiness.

For workshops, having access to suitable replacement parts helps keep repairs moving and gives customers more practical options. For

wholesalers, it highlights the need to carry brands with broad application coverage across the vehicles commonly found in Australian workshops.

Japanese and Korean vehicles continue to make up a large share of everyday servicing work, while European and American applications also remain important across passenger, SUV and light commercial segments.

The right to repair discussion has also reinforced the importance of the independent workshop sector.

Access to service and repair information is essential, but so is access to a sensible range of replacement parts.

In a market where many customers are balancing repair needs with tighter household or business budgets, workshops need aftermarket options that support cost-conscious repairs without compromising professional standards.

This is where brands such as Febest Auto Parts have a clear role to play.

should also be assessing the broader value of their trade relationships.

It states a strong trade account partnership should help workshops improve profitability, streamline procurement and provide technical confidence across a rapidly changing vehicle landscape. This includes access to trade pricing structures, technical support, training resources and product ranges tailored specifically to workshop requirements.

Importantly, workshops should also evaluate whether their supplier is investing in the future of the industry, with Penrite noting that suppliers actively investing in OEM approvals, research and product innovation will be better positioned to support workshops servicing modern vehicles over the long term.

To enquire about a trade account with Penrite, go to info.penriteoil.com.au/trade or call 1300 736 748.

With coverage across suspension components, bushings, steering and chassis-related parts for Japanese, Korean, European and American applications, Febest says it gives trade buyers another quality aftermarket alternative when range, value, and availability matter.

As the Australian vehicle fleet continues to age and diversify, servicing will remain a key driver of aftermarket demand.

Wholesalers that support workshops with relevant, well-ranged product lines will be better placed to meet the day-to-day realities of modern repair work. In that environment, strong catalogue coverage is not just convenient, says Febest, it is a practical advantage for the trade.

To learn more or open a trade or wholesale account, visit www.febest.com.au

AUTEL SAYS: STOP EMAILING REPORTS

Instead, it says you should manage, collaborate, and store with Autel Cloud

Autel has introduced its Autel Cloud offering, which is says allows you to optimise your diagnostic data, reports, customer info, and tablet software for maximum shop and organisational efficiency.

Autel Cloud is described as a powerful online hub designed to simplify storage, access, and sharing of diagnostic reports, live data, digital visual inspections (DVIs), waveforms, and test results; syncing data automatically from tablet to cloud.

Autel Cloud connects the shop floor to the front office, letting repair technicians instantly share DVIs, pre- and post-scan reports, alignments, and ADAS calibration reports with service writers, billing teams, insurers, sales, and customers.

Autel says the result is faster authorisations, greater transparency, better staff communication, and asset management.

By centralising control of diagnostic tablets, updates, and subscriptions for single or multi-shop operators, Autel says this new system ensures tablets always have the latest vehicle coverage, features, and functions.

Further, Autel Cloud gives technicians a collaborative space to solve complex problems faster where you can upload, analyse, and share reports, scans, and live data streams.

Comprehensive Tool (Device) Management

Autel Cloud offers centralised tool management, updates, and usage, keeping shops efficient, compliant, and ready for accurate diagnostics. With Autel Cloud, the company says you can:

• Organise tools: catalog by shop, technician, or custom tags to streamline operations.

• Manage subscriptions: oversee software subscriptions, storage, warranty coverage, and Security Gateway Tokens.

• Keep tablets updated: ensure all devices have the latest vehicle OE-level coverage for optimal diagnostics, service, alignment, and ADAS calibrations.

• Track usage and productivity: monitor report generation per tool to maximise efficiency and compliance; use customised DVI templates to ensure all shops follow and document the shopapproved intake process.

Advanced Report Management

Autel Cloud makes it easy to locate and manage diagnostic records, with:

• Quick search: find scan reports and service history using customer name, VIN, technician name, license plate, or shop location.

CTEK NXT 5, RB 3000 AND RB 4000

Providing smarter battery support during servicing for the modern workshop

Modern workshops are servicing increasingly complex vehicles equipped with advanced battery management systems, high electrical loads, and sophisticated onboard electronics.

As a result, battery support equipment is no longer simply an accessory – it has become a critical workshop requirement.

Recognising this shift, CTEK continues to expand its professional battery management portfolio with solutions designed specifically for the realities of today’s workshop environment.

Leading the latest additions are the NXT 5 battery charger and maintainer alongside the RB 3000 and RB 4000 portable jump starters.

Compact, intelligent and engineered for professional use, the NXT 5 has been developed to support technicians handling modern vehicle charging and battery maintenance requirements. Delivering fully automatic charging and maintenance for 12V batteries, the NXT 5 combines advanced charging algorithms with userfriendly operation, helping workshops improve battery health while reducing unnecessary battery replacements.

As modern vehicles spend more time undergoing

diagnostics, software updates and accessory installations, maintaining stable battery voltage has become essential.

The NXT 5 provides reliable charging and maintenance performance across a range of battery types, helping technicians ensure batteries remain in optimal condition throughout servicing procedures.

Complementing the NXT 5 are CTEK’s RB 3000 and RB 4000 high-performance portable jump starters, designed to deliver dependable starting power across everything from passenger cars through to heavy vehicles.

The RB 3000 provides up to 3000A peak current, while the RB 4000 delivers an impressive 4000A peak current for larger commercial and heavyduty vehicles.

Both units feature advanced safety systems including spark-free operation, reverse polarity protection and overload protection, which CTEK says are critical safeguards when working around modern electronically sensitive vehicles. Importantly for busy workshops, portability and efficiency remain key strengths of both units.

CTEK notes their compact design allows technicians to move quickly between bays without

• Streamlined data retrieval: streamline access to service documentation for efficient sharing with the front office, customers, or insurers.

• Live data and diagnostic report sharing: technicians can upload and share vehicle performance data within the Cloud interface to collaborate on a difficult repair or service.

• Secure data storage: safeguard scan reports, images, and live data recordings in Autel Cloud.

• Live data and diagnostic report sharing: technicians can upload and share vehicle performance data within the Cloud interface to collaborate on a difficult repair or service.

Autel invites you to create your Free 5GB Autel Cloud account today to manage all professional Autel diagnostic and service tools, MX900 and up, including legacy tablets capable of report sharing, and service tools, including the ITS600, BT608, and TBE200.

For more information, visit www.autel.com

relying on lengthy cable setups or external power sources, while heavy-duty clamps and durable housing ensure they are built to withstand demanding daily workshop use.

Beyond jump-starting, the RB 3000 and RB 4000 also function as portable power banks with integrated USB outputs, supporting diagnostic equipment, tablets and mobile devices when required.

Integrated LED work lights add further practicality for low-light conditions or roadside assistance work.

Together, CTEK says the NXT 5, RB 3000 and RB 4000 represent a complete battery support ecosystem for the modern workshop, covering charging, maintenance, recovery and portable power delivery in one intelligent product lineup. To find out more about the entire range of CTEK products, visit www.ctek.com

PRECIOUS METAL SPARK PLUGS

Niterra Australia says its NGK precious metal spark plugs offer superior ignitability with lower emissions

As emission regulations become increasingly stringent, the pressure on vehicle manufacturers to reduce emissions and improve efficiency has risen significantly.

NGK – a brand of Niterra Australia – asserts that it is “the world’s largest Original Equipment manufacturer and OE supplier of Spark Plugs,” stating that as such, it is continually growing its range of precious metal spark plugs.

NGK’s precious metal spark plugs are said to deliver superior ignitability, when compared against conventional spark plugs, and are designed to meet and surpass the modern requirements of vehicle manufacturers.

“We have developed a series of innovative techniques that allow us to include precious metals such as Iridium and Platinum in our spark plug manufacturing process,” Niterra Australia Product Manager, Chantra Kriv, said.

While a number of spark plug manufacturers produce a precious metal range, NGK is reportedly driving this technology further to improve performance, longevity, and to lower emissions.

Precious metals such as the ones described by Chantra have much higher melting points over traditional metals such as nickel.

“Incorporating precious metals into our spark

plug range allows centre electrode diameters to reduce from 2.5mm using nickel, to 0.6mm using iridium or 0.8mm using platinum, which reduces the quenching effect and improves ignitability”

Chantra said.

Quenching occurs when heat energy is lost from the hot flame kernel to the cooler electrodes, as the flame attempts to expand and combust the air/fuel mixture. Reducing the centre electrode diameter decreases this effect.

Chantra says the results are impressive; noting that installing precious metal spark plugs delivers improved acceleration, smoother idling, and improved fuel consumption.

“In addition to using Iridium and Platinum in our precious metal range, we also manufacture with high-grade alumina silicate ceramic,” Chantra said.

“This creates a stronger insulator, reducing dielectric punch-through, which is caused by the spark exiting through side of ceramic.

“To complement this, our cores are manufactured using 98 percent pure copper to increase heat dissipation for reliable starts and to prevent the spark plug overheating.”

To ensure quick, easy and precise fitment each and every time, all NGK spark plugs feature cold-rolled threads that prevent cross-threading and damage

to cylinder heads and trivalent metal plating that negates the use of anti-seize during installation.

NGK offers an extensive range of spark plugs to meet each OE manufacturer’s requirements.

“It is important to remember that even though many plugs with similar part numbers may look the same, each part number has its own characteristics, with some changes not physically visible,” Chantra said.

“These differences are imperative to the operation of the engine and straying from the recommended plug can result in some loss of performance or even severe engine damage.”

For peace of mind, Chantra says you should always ensure you use a plug recommended to meet the OE specification, stating this will avoid any damage and ensure peak performance of your vehicle.

For technical inquiries call NGK on 1300 55 40 59, or visit www.ngk.com.au to review the precious metal spark plug range.

JAX TYRES & AUTO ORANGE ADDS CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY

The network says these upgrades allow the Orange workshop to enhance customer transparency and service

JAX Tyres & Auto Orange has announced the installation of a Hunter Road Force Balancer and a MAHA test lane in order to further elevate the levels of service provided to the local community.

It says the new equipment has been purchased and implemented to enhance transparency in JAX Orange’s services by providing customers with clear, accurate, and data-backed insights into their vehicle, ensuring repairs are precise and necessary.

According to JAX Orange, it has become “the only workshop in the Central West to possess the two pieces of equipment, taking capabilities well beyond standard workshops.”

It reports the investment has been a conscious decision to adhere to community feedback and appetite for a workshop that operates above the industry baseline.

The Hunter Road Force Balancer is described by JAX Orange as a high-end piece of equipment, with its ability to perform a detailed 3D scan of both the wheel and tyre, setting it apart from standard wheel balancing machines.

Using the Balancer, mechanics can reportedly identify even the smallest imperfections in the tyre or rim and then optimise the assembly by rotating

the tyre on the wheel and selecting the best position on the vehicle, which can be particularly valuable in the 4WD market.

The MAHA Test Lane equipment provides a comprehensive, efficient, and versatile solution for vehicle testing and servicing, including brake testing, suspension testing, shock absorber testing, headlight alignment testing, and more.

Providing accurate weight assessment on vehicles carrying a lot of weight such as Utes, vans and 4x4s, the assessment can be done on each individual corner of the vehicle, helping JAX Orange technicians to identify highly localised issues and suggest solutions, such as airbags or constant load springs.

The two pieces of equipment will deliver more precise diagnostics, better outcomes, and greater confidence in the work being carried out and further demonstrate JAX Orange’s commitment to being leaders in industry technology.

“We position ourselves as a customer-first tyre and mechanical retailer, and we are dedicated to abiding by this mantra,” JAX Tyres & Auto Orange Franchisee, Ben Antoney, said.

“By investing in this equipment, it enables us to

strike the right balance between educating our customers, without overwhelming them, and never overstepping when it comes to their understanding or decision-making.

“It is ultimately about building trust through clarity and doing what’s genuinely in the customer’s best interest, which is essential in an industry where there can sometimes be scepticism around overdiagnosis or inflated recommendations.

“To be able to provide such high-level service that other workshops in the region are unable to match, is hugely motivating and shows the value of investing in the right tools and technology.”

To learn more about JAX Tyres & Auto, visit www.jax.com.au

SERVICING

THREADSAVER

ThreadSaver is the latest innovation from Warren and Brown Tools

When a truck is off the road, productivity stops and costs rise fast.

In the automotive, transport, and heavy vehicle industries, even something as simple as a damaged thread can lead to major downtime, costly component replacement, and lost revenue.

Warren and Brown Tools says that is why it is proud to introduce its latest workshop innovation: ThreadSaver.

Designed to restore damaged threads quickly, accurately, and without compromising the original component, Warren and Brown Tools says ThreadSaver is rapidly becoming an essential tool for workshops, fleet operators, and service technicians across Australia.

A smarter solution for damaged threads

Stripped bolts, damaged studs, worn axle threads, and compromised fasteners are everyday problems in busy workshops.

Traditionally, repairing them meant timeconsuming re-tapping, thread inserts, or replacing expensive parts entirely, but Warren and Brown Tools says ThreadSaver changes the game.

“Using advanced thread-forming technology, ThreadSaver restores threads back to their original shape without removing material,” Warren and Brown Tools Marketing and E-Commerce Manager, Josh Henry, said.

“That means stronger repairs, less downtime, and significant savings on replacement parts.

“For fleet operators, the total cost of ownership becomes an easy equation – it is far more costeffective to have ThreadSaver kits available in service centres and maintenance vehicles than to have trucks sitting idle waiting for repairs.”

Built for productivity

ThreadSaver has been engineered for real-world workshop conditions where speed and reliability matter. Key advantages include:

• Fast, non-destructive thread restoration

• Suitable for internal and external threads

• Reduces vehicle and machinery downtime

• Preserves original thread integrity

• Extends the life of expensive components

• Simple operation with no external power required

• Ideal for automotive, truck, trailer, fleet, industrial, and agricultural applications

“Whether it’s repairing wheel studs, axle threads, suspension components, or machinery fasteners, ThreadSaver helps technicians get the job done quickly and professionally,” Josh said.

Precision European engineering

Designed in Germany and manufactured in Estonia, Warren and Brown Tools explains ThreadSaver combines precision engineering with workshop durability.

“Unlike traditional thread repair methods that cut away material, ThreadSaver reforms the damaged

ZF LIFEGUARDFLUIDS AND OIL CHANGE KITS

ZF recommends oil changes every 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres

ZF LifeguardFluids are formulated specifically for individual transmissions and developed alongside the hardware to ensure long service life, stable friction behaviour, and consistent shifting performance.

The fluids use high-grade base oils and specialised additive packages suited to six-, seven-, eight- and nine-speed applications.

While many ZF transmissions are factory-filled for standard service life conditions, real-world driving factors such as towing, frequent short trips, and sustained high-speed driving can accelerate oil ageing.

Before starting an oil change, always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions. The engine must never be run, nor the vehicle towed, without transmission oil, as this can cause immediate damage.

Begin by removing any necessary underbody trims. Drain the old oil through the drain plug at the bottom of the oil pan and collect it in a suitable container.

During draining, inspect the oil condition – a burnt smell, metal chips or fragments may indicate internal transmission damage and should be assessed by a qualified ZF service centre.

When removing the oil pan, procedures differ depending on design. For metal oil pans, replace only the oil filter and sealing ring. Loosen and tighten screws in the sequence specified by the manufacturer to prevent distortion. Clean residual oil and the permanent magnet before installing the new filter and seal, observing the specified torque. Plastic oil pans typically integrate the filter and seal, requiring full replacement as a unit.

Reinstall the oil pan using new screws and tighten according to the prescribed sequence and torque. Fit a new drain plug with a new seal. Be careful when filling oil, as over- or underfilling or using oil at the wrong temperature can damage the transmission.

thread back into specification – maintaining strength, fitment, and reliability,” Josh said.

“The result is a cleaner, stronger repair that keeps vehicles and equipment operating longer.”

Simple to use, powerful results

ThreadSaver is designed for efficiency in any workshop environment.

“Technicians simply select the correct roller set, lubricate the damaged thread, secure the tool, rotate around the damaged area, and restore the thread to its original geometry,” Josh explained.

“In just minutes, damaged threads can be restored without replacing the component.

“For workshops focused on efficiency, uptime, and professional results, ThreadSaver is more than just another repair tool – it is an investment in productivity.

“As the latest addition to the Warren and Brown Tools range, ThreadSaver delivers the quality, innovation, and performance professionals expect from one of Australia’s most trusted names in tooling.”

ThreadSaver is available now from www.wbtools.com.au

When refilling, the team at ZF recommends you use only the specified ZF LifeguardFluid, warning against using supplementary additives. Fill until oil runs from the filler opening. Start the engine at idle, shift through R and D back to P, then run the engine for 30 seconds at 2000RPM, then engage each gear for 10 seconds.

Check oil temperature before setting the final oil level. For example, 6HP units require 30–35°C and 8HP units up to 40°C. At the specified temperature, adjust the fill until only a slight overflow occurs, then close and torque the filler plug. The engine can then be switched off, completing the service.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/au

POWERREX LIFTS

Interequip is proud to stock Powerrex Korean lifts

Interequip offers a range of Powerrex Korean lifts, which it describes as premium quality, feature rich, genuine 100 percent Korean manufactured lifts.

Powerrex Korea has produced new accessories in 2026 to add on to the SL25TF Two Post Five Ton Clear Floor Lifts.

In addition to 100mm truck adaptors, Powerrex has added extra high optional 180mm truck adaptors to work on 4WD vans or Utes that have customised side steps that require extra high lifting.

It also has an optional extra height kit which provide an extra one metre increase in height, while the optional outrigger kits make the lift foundation stable and strong.

A set of EV arms for SL25TF or optional EV Tesla load stools for EV cars, to add on to the existing arms, and a swap set of special EV arms for the SL25TF have also been newly developed to make it easy to work under EV cars for battery inspections or removals.

If you are working on extra low chassis vehicles, lawn mowers, and golf carts, you can also easily add on a lawn mower kit to these two-post lifts to simply convert the hoist into a multifunctional hoist.

The range of Powerrex lifts are tested and certified to Australian/NZ electrical and safety standards.

For more a more detailed look at these products, Interequip invites you to check out its range of Powerrex videos on its YouTube channel and website.

Interequip also stocks a range of wheel service equipment and Autel diagnostic scanners.

For more information, visit www.interequip.com.au or contact Interequip on 18000EQUIP (1800 037 847) or info@interequip.com.au

DON’T LEAVE YOUR CUSTOMERS STRANDED THIS WINTER

As we head into the cooler months of the year and the temperatures decline, automotive batteries go through changes that can begin to affect the starting performance of a vehicle

Century Batteries explains that it has spent 98 years building batteries that are designed for tough Australian conditions, but even the best batteries aren’t immune to the physics of cold weather.

In this article, it takes a look at the question: why does winter put batteries to the test, and how workshops can help their customers avoid becoming stranded.

Reduced cranking power

When the temperature drops, the chemical reaction inside a car battery slows down.

This means the battery produces less electrical energy – right at the time when a vehicle needs more power to start.

Cold oil thickens, components move less freely, and the starter motor draws more current, making for a perfect storm which can leave a battery unable to do its job.

In fact, a battery can lose up to 35 percent of its cranking capacity when temperatures fall to around 0°C, and even more in extreme conditions. And if a battery is already a few years old or not holding charge as it should, that drop in performance can be enough to prevent an engine from starting altogether.

Increased demand on the system

Winter also tends to increase the electrical load on a vehicle.

Headlights, heaters, windscreen demisters, wipers and heated seats all put extra pressure on a battery and charging system.

On short trips, an alternator may not have enough time to fully recharge the battery between starts, leading to a gradual decline in charge and performance.

This is especially true in stop-start or city driving, where the engine may be switched off at traffic lights or in heavy traffic, further reducing the available charge time.

Age and battery condition matters

Batteries don’t last forever and if a battery is three to five years old, winter is often the season that exposes underlying issues, such as sulphation, internal corrosion or general wear.

Even minor faults can be amplified by the cold, resulting in unexpected failures.

Increase battery sales with proactive testing

Century Batteries says research has proven the correlation between the more batteries you test, the more replacement batteries you will sell.

It says this is particularly pertinent when it is considered that approximately 750,000 battery sales are lost each year to roadside replacements because of people waiting until their batteries fail before replacing them.

Over 70 percent of these vehicles would have visited a service bay or retail outlet within the last six months – and the owners could have potentially benefited from receiving a free battery test during that visit.

This is particularly interesting when it is considered that approximately one in every twenty batteries identified with a ‘chance of failure’ leads to a battery sale.

Century Batteries explains that proactive battery testing using a handheld tester like the BT900 from Century Yuasa provides an accurate on the spot test result in minutes, helping to identify suspect batteries before they fail and highlight problems with the vehicle’s starting and charging system.

The BT900 features patented Single Load Dynamic Resistance technology to simulate the real-world conditions a battery will face.

Century Batteries says it will not be misled by common conditions such as high surface voltage, poor cell connections and contact impedance, delivering accurate results test after test.

Suitable for use with both conventional and idle stop start battery technologies including 12V regular flooded, AGM flat plate, AGM spiral plate, VRLA/GEL and Stop-Start (EFB and AGM), the company says the BT900 is a fast, affordable, and essential service tool for battery resellers and automotive workshops.

But more importantly, it says it helps your customers avoid the financial and emotional costs associated with a flat or faulty battery.

In summary, Century Batteries says that not only will this translate into increased battery sales, but it will also help maintain your reputation of offering good customer service and further cement your business in the local community.

For more information, contact your Century Batteries representative on 1300 362 287 or visit www.centurybatteries.com.au

PSYCHOSOCIAL RISK: WHAT EMPLOYERS NEED TO KNOW

Every Australian jurisdiction imposes psychosocial risk management duties under workplace health and safety (WHS) or occupational health and safety (OHS) legislation, with recent reforms in Victoria and NSW

Employers (or person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU)), must identify psychosocial hazards, and eliminate or, if not reasonably practicable, minimise the risks so far as is reasonably practicable.

Model WHS Laws

The model WHS laws have been adopted in all Australian states and territories except Victoria, subject to jurisdiction specific amendments. Victoria has its own OHS system.

Definition of Psychosocial Hazard

Under the model WHS Regulations, a psychosocial hazard is defined as a hazard arising from or relating to the design or management of work, the work environment, plant, or workplace interactions or behaviours, that may cause psychological harm, whether or not it may also cause physical harm.

A psychosocial risk is a risk to the health or safety of a worker or other person arising from a psychosocial hazard.

What

Psychosocial Hazards look like

Psychosocial hazards can include high job demands, low job control, poor support, lack of role clarity, poor organisational change management, poor organisational justice, traumatic events or material, workplace conflict, violence and aggression, bullying, and sexual harassment.

These risks often arise in ordinary workplace situations, for example, excessive workloads after a resignation, workers having little control over task performance, managers conducting performance management without adequate structure or support or customer-facing workers being exposed to aggression, or uncertainty about reporting lines, duties or job security after a restructure.

Controls should address source of risk

The model WHS laws require PCBUs to eliminate psychosocial risks so far as is reasonably practicable. If elimination is not reasonably

practicable, the risk must be minimised so far as is reasonably practicable.

This involves implementing control measures having regard to matters including the duration, frequency and severity of exposure, how hazards may interact, the design and systems of work, the work environment (including the information, training and supervision provided).

This means employers should look first at how the work is designed, managed and supported. A policy may explain expected behaviour, and training may help managers recognise risk, but those measures will often need to sit alongside more direct controls.

Depending on the hazard, this may involve changing workload, resourcing, reporting lines, supervision arrangements, work allocation, exposure to aggressive behaviour or the way sensitive workplace processes are conducted.

The duty is not to remove every difficult part of work. Employers can still manage performance, staffing and operational change. The obligation is to identify risks to psychological health and take steps to eliminate or minimise them.

Victoria

The Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations 2025 (Vic) commenced on 1 December 2025, alongside WorkSafe Victoria’s Compliance Code: Psychological Health.

The Victorian reforms prescribe a tailored risk management process and create specific duties for employers to identify hazards, control risks and review and revise risk control measures where necessary.

Victoria’s approach is framed differently from the model WHS definition. A psychosocial hazard is defined as any factor or factors in work design, systems of work, management of work, the carrying out of work, or personal or work-related interactions, that may arise in the working environment and may cause an employee to experience one or more negative psychological responses that create a risk to their health or safety.

Under the Victorian control framework, if elimination is not reasonably practicable, the employer must reduce the risk so far as reasonably practicable by altering one or more of the management of work, plant, systems of work, work design or the workplace environment.

Information, instruction or training may only be used exclusively if those more direct controls are not reasonably practicable and must not be the predominant control measure if used in combination with them.

New South Wales

The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025 (NSW) commenced in August 2025. The Regulation requires psychosocial risks to be managed in accordance with the hierarchy of control measures aligned with the model approach.

The Regulation retains the model definition of “psychosocial hazard” and “psychosocial risk”, but NSW has moved away from the model position on controls, by also requiring the hierarchy of control measures to be applied (where it is not reasonably practicable to eliminate the risk), together with additional psychosocial-specific control requirements also used in the Model WHS Regulations.

From 1 July 2026, compliance with approved Codes of Practice will become a duty in NSW. A PCBU will need to comply with an approved Code or manage hazards and risks in a different way that provides an equivalent or higher standard of health and safety.

Practical takeaway

Employers should start with a current psychosocial risk assessment, measured against the hazards identified in the relevant code. They should document the controls considered and implemented.

Employers must consult with workers and, where applicable, health and safety representatives about psychosocial hazards, proposed controls and whether existing measures are working in practice.

This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Employer Assist by Industry Legal Group for advice.

Liability limited by a scheme approved under the professional services legislation.

AAAA Member Benefits

Employer Assist provides advice on all aspects of employment law. If you require any assistance with the above changes in your workplace, please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au

JAX TYRES & AUTO SLACKS CREEK CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF LOCAL SERVICE

Over the past two decades, James has built a strong reputation for customer service, reliability, and adaptability

JAX Tyres & Auto Slacks Creek franchisee, James Sullivan, is proudly celebrating 20 years of delivering trusted automotive services to the Slacks Creek community.

With a background in corporate travel management, James’ transition into automotive service was driven by a desire to move into a more hands-on, customer-focused industry, where he could build long-term relationships within his local community.

Under his leadership, the business has continued to evolve with changing customer expectations, supporting local drivers with everything from routine tyre and mechanical services through to more complex automotive needs, while maintaining a strong focus on tailored, personal service.

“The industry has changed significantly over the last 20 years, but what hasn’t changed is the importance of relationships and trust,” James said.

“Seeing customers come back year after year and being relied upon to look after their vehicles is what makes it worthwhile.”

Customer feedback continues to play a vital role

in how the Slacks Creek team operates, with online reviews increasingly influencing how new customers choose where to go for service and repairs.

“Customers are far more informed now, with set expectations around price and service before they even walk through the door,” James said.

“At the same time, there’s less face-to-face interaction, so the in-store experience and trust you build once they arrive is more important than ever.”

A key strength of the Slacks Creek business has been its strong team continuity, with a low staff turnover and others returning to the workshop after taking time away, maintaining high levels of industry and local knowledge to best serve the community.

James also takes pride in supporting the development of the team, recently supporting a team member who started out three years ago as a tyre fitter and has now completed their trade qualifications through the business.

Community connection has remained a consistent focus, with the team proudly supporting local initiatives, including the MacGregor Netball

Association, contributing to grounds sponsorship, prizes and the annual gala dinner.

“Long-standing franchisees like James are a vital part of the JAX network,” JAX Tyres & Auto Chief Franchising Operations Officer, April Harwood, said.

“Their commitment to their customers, their teams and their local communities is what drives the strength of the brand.

“Celebrating 20 years of service is a fantastic achievement, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with James and his team.”

Operating since 1949, JAX Tyres & Auto began its franchising journey in 1993 and has since grown into a national network of over 94 locations, with 89 independently owned by franchisees.

Today, the brand supports more than 1,000 employees across Australia.

To learn more about JAX Tyres & Auto, visit www.jax.com.au

ZF’S TRAXON TRANSMISSION POWERS PAST 1.5 MILLION UNITS

A major production milestone is being celebrated by ZF

ZF’s industry-leading modular transmission system, TraXon, has reached another major production milestone after the 1.5 millionth unit recently rolled off the assembly line.

Since its launch in 2014, TraXon has raised the bar for commercial vehicle transmissions worldwide.

Manufactured across ZF’s network of plants in Germany, China and Brazil, TraXon continues to support the growing demand for highly efficient drivetrain systems from customers worldwide.

“The original TraXon introduced innovations in transmission technologies that have set the standard for the industry,” said Christian

Feldhaus, Vice President of the Transmissions and Hybrids product segment at ZF’s Commercial Vehicle Solutions Division.

“Thanks to its high performance and efficiency, it quickly established a global reputation as the benchmark transmission for heavy-duty commercial vehicles globally.

“With last year’s launch of the TraXon 2, we are building on that heritage with a transmission that delivers even faster shifting, enhanced digital integration and improved fuel economy.”

Capitalising on the success of ZF’s TraXon platform, the TraXon 2 is equipped with next generation microprocessors, integrated security modules and thorough functional software upgrades, as well as updated in-house designed and manufactured ECU and shift actuators.

Enabling a fuel consumption reduction compared to its predecessor, ZF says the TraXon 2 is ideally suited for heavy-duty truck and coach applications as well as special applications such as medium-toheavy-duty mobile cranes.

As the industry moves toward electrification, ZF

says it is already developing the next evolution of the platform with the TraXon 2 Hybrid.

Designed to meet the demands of sustainable transport, the hybrid system is capable of delivering electric-only range, enabling zero-emission driving in urban and congested areas, while switching to combustion for long-haul routes.

Locally, ZF Australia explains that it continues to train and support its service partners in delivering high quality servicing for TraXon, ensuring consistent product knowledge, reliable maintenance standards, and enhanced customer satisfaction right across the country.

For further information on ZF and its products and services, please visit www.zf.com/au

OVERDRIVE MAKES ITS MARK AT AAAEXPO

Soul+Wolf’s new Shopify accelerator for automotive brands turned heads in its debut appearance on the Expo floor

Soul+Wolf, the team behind Overdrive (the new Shopify accelerator built specifically for automotive brands and retailers), says the three days at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) taught it more about its market in 72 hours than the months leading up to it.

Overdrive made its public debut at the Expo, launched by Melbourne-based specialist automotive digital agency Soul+Wolf.

The stand centered on a live demonstration of the platform, designed to give automotive brands and parts retailers a smooth, modern, conversion-

focused online store without the cost, complexity and compromise of a custom build.

What happened on the floor did the talking.

Soul+Wolf says the conversations on the stand set the tone early: “We’ve been quoted over $50,000 for this exact thing” was followed closely by “our website took over 12 months and still doesn’t do half of this.”

It reports a parts retailer stopped mid-demo to ask, “so our customers can just enter their rego and it shows them only what fits?” And more than one visitor pushed back with something they had clearly been told before: “we were told you couldn’t integrate fitment search with Shopify.”

Soul+Wolf explains this is precisely the gap Overdrive was built to close.

For brands selling online (whether direct-toconsumer, B2B or both), the platform brings together the speed and reliability of Shopify with an automotive-specific framework that understands fitment, catalogue complexity, and the way parts buyers actually shop.

Across three days, the conversations rarely stopped. Brands, parts retailers and distributors,

many of them already mid-way through expensive rebuilds or frustrated with platforms that weren’t built for this industry, came to the stand looking for exactly what Overdrive offers.

If there was one other takeaway from the Expo floor for Soul+Wolf, it was this: the bar for stand design and presence has been set high.

The team highlights Brembo, NTK and Burson as delivering truly exceptional displays, stating, “hats off to those marketing teams.”

For Soul+Wolf, the 2026 Expo marked the beginning of something – Overdrive is open, the platform is live, and now it is ready to get to work. If you missed Overdrive at the Expo, Soul+Wolf encourages you to get in touch with its team or visit www.getoverdrive.store to explore the platform and book a demo.

WHY GOOD INTERVIEWS STILL LEAD TO BAD HIRES

Most hiring managers are confident in their ability to spot good talent

Unfortunately, research consistently shows that interviews alone are not particularly reliable predictors of future performance.

Despite our best intentions, hiring decisions are often influenced by unconscious bias, first impressions, likeability, similarity to ourselves, and a tendency to place too much weight on a candidate’s ability to interview well.

The result? Candidates who look great on paper and perform well in interviews sometimes turn out to be poor fits for the role, the team, or the organisation. For businesses in the automotive aftermarket sector, where skilled employees can be difficult to find and costly to replace, a poor hiring decision can have significant consequences. Recruitment costs, lost productivity, additional training, and performance management issues all add up quickly.

Registered psychologist Paul Clifford says this is where personality profiling can add substantial value, stating, “a well-validated personality assessment doesn’t replace interviews. It improves them.”

“Rather than relying solely on a candidate’s ability to provide polished examples during an interview, personality assessments provide objective data about the behavioural preferences and work styles a candidate is likely to demonstrate over time,” Paul said.

“In other words, interviews often tell us what a candidate says they have done. Personality assessments help us understand how they are likely to approach situations consistently in the future. Used together, they provide a more complete picture.”

Paul said one of the most common mistakes organisations make is evaluating candidates without first defining what success actually looks like.

Candidates can then be compared against this benchmark, helping managers evaluate fit against agreed selection criteria rather than relying solely on intuition – creating greater consistency and objectivity throughout the recruitment process.

Assessment results can also improve the reference check process, by helping hiring managers identify areas to explore in greater depth with referees and test whether the behaviours observed by previous managers align with the assessment findings.

Paul says the benefits of personality profiling don’t end once a hiring decision has been made, stating assessment data can provide managers with practical insights into how to onboard, motivate, develop, and support their new employee.

“Of course, there is no assessment tool that can guarantee a perfect hiring decision. However, organisations can significantly improve their chances of selecting the right candidate by combining clear

role requirements, structured behavioural interviews, quality reference checking, and validated personality assessment data,” Paul said.

“The goal is not to remove human judgement from the recruitment process. The goal is to support that judgement with better evidence.

“In an increasingly competitive labour market, organisations that make hiring decisions based on objective data rather than instinct alone place themselves in a much stronger position to build highperforming teams and avoid costly hiring mistakes.”

To discuss how structured assessment can help you identify the right candidates and avoid costly hiring mistakes, contact Paul Clifford on 0423 771 839 or email paul@paulcliffordpsychology.com.au

WHY WORKSHOP EFFICIENCY DOESN’T END AT THE REPAIR

As customer expectations continue to evolve, workshops are increasingly looking for ways to create smoother experiences while reducing administrative steps behind the scenes

Beyond the tools and technology on display, many exhibitors and attendees at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) were exploring how workshops can improve day-to-day operations, from customer communication and workflow visibility through to invoicing and payment handling.

Megabus says one of the key areas that appeared to resonate strongly with visitors at Stand M48 was the importance of streamlining the final stages of the job process.

While the repair itself may be completed efficiently, disconnected payment systems or manual transaction processes can still introduce duplicate handling, errors when entering payment amounts and time-consuming administration behind the scenes.

Individually, these moments may seem small. Across an entire workshop, however, they can quietly affect workflow, operational consistency, and the overall customer experience. In many workshops, payment processing can still involve manually re-entering transaction amounts

into separate EFTPOS terminals, reconciling payments across multiple systems, and managing additional paperwork at the end of the day. These extra steps not only consume valuable time but can also increase the likelihood of processing errors and discrepancies that require further follow-up.

Megabus says this is why integrated payment functionality is becoming an essential part of modern workshop operations.

By connecting payments directly within workshop systems, businesses can reduce manual entry, minimise transaction errors, and simplify end-ofday reconciliation.

Rather than rekeying payment amounts across separate systems, integrated workflows help information move more seamlessly through the business, improving both visibility and accuracy. This allows staff to spend less time handling administrative tasks, while workshops gain a clearer overview of transactions and payment activity throughout the day.

Integrated payment functionality also gives

workshops greater flexibility in how they manage customer payments.

Whether customers pay at the counter or remotely via secure payment links, workshops can complete transactions more conveniently while reducing follow-up calls and unnecessary administration. Beyond convenience, integrated systems may also help reduce payment-related administration by streamlining reconciliation, reducing manual handling, and minimising duplicate data entry. Ultimately, Megabus says, “workshop efficiency is not only about completing the repair itself. It is about how smoothly the entire process comes together around it, from the initial booking through to the final payment.”

For more information, visit www.megabus.com.au

JAX TYRES & AUTO WINS EXCELLENCE IN REPAIR & SERVICE – CHAIN

JAX says this recognition further cements its position as one of Australia’s leading automotive service networks

JAX Tyres & Auto was crowned as the winner of the Excellence in Repair and Service – Chain category at the 2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards.

The Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards recognises outstanding achievers across the automotive aftermarket industry, celebrating organisations that demonstrate excellence, innovation, and education across retail, manufacturing, distribution, and mechanical service sectors.

JAX Tyres & Auto was recognised for its leadership in customer experience, workshop innovation, and operational transformation.

A key driver of this recognition has been the rollout of Digital Vehicle Inspections (DVI) across the national network.

The platform enables technicians to provide customers with photo and video evidence of vehicle condition, colour-coded reporting (Red, Yellow, Green), real-time job updates and instant SMS delivery of inspection results, helping customers make more informed decisions about their vehicles.

JAX Tyres & Auto states that at pilot locations, the introduction of DVI has delivered measurable commercial and customer outcomes, including an increase of more than 15 percent in Average Repair Order (ARO) within 90 days, demonstrating the power of transparency in building both trust and business performance.

“Winning this award is a really proud moment for our entire network,” JAX Tyres & Auto Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Steve Grossrieder, said.

COOLDRIVE SHINES AT AAAEXPO

The family-owned business had plenty to celebrate at the Expo

A highly successful Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) for CoolDrive Auto Parts was highlighted by major industry recognition, strong customer engagement, and a showcase of the passion and future potential of the automotive aftermarket industry.

Recently held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the three-day event provided CoolDrive with the opportunity to connect with trade customers, suppliers, and industry partners, while highlighting its extensive portfolio of leading automotive brands and workshop solutions.

A standout achievement for the family-owned company was receiving the Gold Award for ‘Best Stand over 36m2’ at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards, recognising the quality, presentation and engagement of the CoolDrive stand.

Adding to the celebrations, CoolDrive’s Executive Chairman John Blanchard was honoured with the prestigious ‘Outstanding Service to Industry’ award which is one of the highest recognitions presented by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA).

Throughout AAAExpo, the CoolDrive stand attracted strong visitor traffic, with attendees exploring the company’s extensive range of products and solutions across its brands including Jaylec, Jayair, Jayrad, HULK 4X4, AFI, Bremtec Brakes, Ignite Lighting, Aunger, and CalOffroad.

CoolDrive’s dedicated tools and equipment display also generated significant interest, with workshop owners and technicians engaging with the team to learn more about the latest technologies and equipment solutions.

Adding to the excitement on stand were appearances from Blanchard Racing Team (BRT) Supercars drivers James Golding and Aaron Cameron, who also entertained crowds during the popular Flying Spanners Apprentice Challenge.

“AAAExpo 2026 provided a fantastic opportunity for the CoolDrive team to connect with customers, suppliers, and industry partners from across Australia and New Zealand, while also showcasing the breadth of our product offering and capabilities,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Operating Officer, Tim Blanchard, said.

“We were incredibly proud to receive the Gold

“It reflects the hard work of our franchise partners and teams across the country who bring our promise of Peace of Mind Driving to life every day.

“Over the past few years, we’ve worked hard to create innovative and transparent automotive services, and this recognition is a strong reflection of that work and our customer centric culture.”

Operating since 1949, JAX Tyres & Auto began its franchising journey in 1993 and has since grown into a national network of over 94 locations, with 89 independently owned by franchisees.

Today, the brand supports more than 1,000 employees across Australia and serves more than 60,000 customers monthly.

To learn more about JAX Tyres & Auto, visit www.jax.com.au

Award for Best Stand Over 36m², which reflects the effort and passion our team puts into creating a welcoming and engaging experience for visitors.

“It was also wonderful to see my father, John Blanchard recognised with the Outstanding Service to Industry Award, which is a testament to his long-standing contribution to the local automotive aftermarket industry.

“Most encouraging of all was seeing the excitement, passion, and future potential of the industry on display throughout the Expo.

“The level of innovation and enthusiasm across the event reinforces that the future of the automotive aftermarket industry is very bright.”

For further information on CoolDrive Auto Parts, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au

AUSTRALIA’S HISTORIC VEHICLE PASSION HAS A $9.9 BILLION IMPACT

The Australian Motor Heritage Foundation (AMHF) is committed to protecting this important part of Australia’s automotive industry

Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2026, the AMHF has recommitted to its bold vision to become a world-renowned resource centre for Australia’s automotive achievements.

The AMHF is located in a dedicated facility at Sydney Motorsport Park and staffed by a passionate team of volunteers.

“What we do is preserve, protect and celebrate Australia’s motor heritage – and its future – for all Australians,” AMHF Co-Chairman, Shamus Toomey, said.

At its core is, arguably, one of the most comprehensive automotive archives in the country. With more than 14,000 magazines (including rare first editions), 5000-plus books, more than 10,000 brochures, engineering drawings, technical reports, workshop manuals, race programs and results, 45,000+ photographs, film, audio, 6TB of digital media, personal papers, advertising, handbooks and other historic artefacts, the AMHF captures the full spectrum of Australia’s automotive culture. The collection and archives are a deep, rich resource for enthusiasts, historians, restorers, educators, industry professionals, media, researchers and the wider community. The collections are all housed under one roof and are also increasingly accessible online.

Among the standout treasures are the personal papers and photographs of Herbert Thomson, who the AMHF explains is widely recognised as the first person to successfully build, drive and sell a selfpropelled automobile in Australia – an invaluable link to the nation’s earliest motoring pioneers.

The AMHF explains it is not just about preserving the past; stating it is also working to help define the present.

In 2024, it delivered a landmark survey revealing that Australia’s historic vehicle owners contribute more than $9.9 billion annually to the economy. The results of the Automotive Heritage Economic Impact Survey (AHEIS) are powerful evidence of the

sector’s significant and ongoing economic value to our nation.

Drawing on responses from more than 6,000 enthusiasts across 800 motoring clubs nationwide, the AMHF said the survey was the most comprehensive of its kind ever undertaken in Australia.

It painted a vivid picture of a thriving community built around an estimated 970,000 historic vehicles, with owners investing an average of $10,240 per vehicle annually.

But the AMHF says the headline numbers go even further.

When both direct and indirect contributions are counted, the AMHF says the historic vehicle sector delivers a total economic impact of $25.2 billion.

Further, it also reportedly underpins nearly 79,000 jobs – 42,000 directly and 37,000 indirectly –generating $6.2 billion in wages and salaries each year.

By any measure, it is a significant force in the national economy, says the AMHF.

“The findings highlight just how important the historic vehicle sector is – not only to the community, but to Australia’s economy,” AMHF Co-Chairman, Hugh King, said.

“The response has been extraordinary. It shows

that enthusiasts are deeply passionate – not just about their vehicles, but about having their voices heard.

“This study confirms the historic vehicle movement is a large, vibrant and vital part of Australian life.”

The survey also found that Australia’s motoring enthusiasts pour $1.316 billion annually into events, automotive related holidays and travel and racing - making it the equal third-largest category of spending in the sector.

“That $1.3 billion isn’t just passion – it is a serious contribution to Australia’s economy,” AMHF Chief Operating Officer, Geoff Piggott, said.

The report also highlighted that motoring enthusiasm supports 42,000 direct jobs and generates $2.8 billion in wages every year – a powerful engine for employment across the country.

“We are committed to highlighting the significant economic contribution enthusiasts make to the broader Australian economy,” Geoff said.

As a registered charity with Deductible Gift Recipient status for its Library, the AMHF’s work is funded by donors, sponsors, supporters and a community that understands the value of preserving Australia’s automotive achievements.

To learn more about the AMHF or view the full report, visit www.motorheritage.org.au

PRTC SET FOR 2026 RELAUNCH

Industry leaders are uniting to grow Australia’s Performance Aftermarket

The Performance Racing and Tuning Council is preparing to return in 2026 with a renewed purpose, a refreshed strategy and a clear ambition to once again become a powerful voice for Australia’s performance, racing and tuning sector.

An initiative of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the PRTC has been largely dormant for an extended period. However, with performance modification, grassroots motorsport, and automotive enthusiast culture continuing to play an important role in the Australian aftermarket, the time is right to bring the council back with a stronger commercial and industry development focus.

“The PRTC is an important part of the AAAA, supporting the Association’s advocacy efforts with input from the specialist performance segment,” AAAA Membership Development Manager and PRTC Convenor, Dan Nelson, said.

The relaunch strategy was developed by Media Scrum Director of Strategy, Trent Dyball, and presented to the PRTC Steering Committee during a meeting held at the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Expo (AAAExpo) on Friday 15 May.

Following the meeting, Trent was appointed Chairperson of the PRTC Steering Committee and will work with the committee to guide the relaunch and rebuild the council’s role across the sector.

Daniel welcomed Trent to the role.

“It is great to have Trent leading the Steering Committee. Trent brings together many different PRT groups through his connections and with his enthusiasm for performance industry success,”

Daniel said.

“I am incredibly excited to work with the PRTC Steering Committee to bring this council back to life and once again make it a force in the Australian Automotive Aftermarket,” Trent said.

“The performance, racing, and tuning sector is full of passionate businesses, skilled professionals and committed enthusiasts.

“The opportunity now is to unite that energy behind a clear strategy that helps AAAA members sell more products and services, while also supporting the future of modified vehicle culture in Australia.”

At the heart of the relaunch strategy is a simple idea: when modified vehicles are driven, shown, raced, and supported more often, the entire performance aftermarket benefits.

The proposed vision for the relaunched PRTC is to build a stronger, safer, and more commercially successful performance aftermarket by encouraging more Australians to enjoy modified vehicles on the road, at car shows, and through sanctioned grassroots motorsport.

The strategy also recognises the importance of creating clearer pathways into motorsport and the broader performance industry, not only for competitors, but also for mechanics, fabricators,

tuners, data engineers, and other specialist technicians.

“The PRTC has an important role to play in encouraging responsible participation,” Trent said.

“We want to see more modified vehicles being used and enjoyed. We want more owners entering car shows, more people trying grassroots motorsport in safe and sanctioned environments, and more young people seeing the performance aftermarket as a genuine career pathway.”

The relaunch strategy is built around five key pillars: commercial growth, regulatory confidence, education and professionalism, market intelligence, and community and industry leadership.

The commercial growth pillar focuses on helping AAAA members sell more performance products and services by increasing participation in the modified vehicle culture.

The logic is clear: the more often enthusiasts use their cars, the more they invest in maintenance, upgrades, tuning, fabrication, tyres, safety equipment, presentation and event preparation.

The regulatory confidence pillar will focus on helping members and enthusiasts better understand how to modify vehicles responsibly, legally and safely.

This is in line with the AAAA advocacy strength with government, politicians, and stakeholders.

Education and professionalism will also play a major role. The PRTC will aim to support the continued development of the sector by promoting technical capability, business education, compliance awareness and future skills.

This includes recognising the growing importance of electronics, calibration, data, engineering and specialist motorsport support.

Market intelligence will provide another important foundation for the relaunch. The strategy recommends that the PRTC develop a stronger insights program, including industry sentiment tracking, modified vehicle owner research and

PERFORMANCE & RACING

participation data that can help members make better commercial decisions.

The final pillar, community and industry leadership, is designed to position the PRTC as a connector between performance businesses, event promoters, clubs, motorsport bodies, educators, regulators and enthusiasts.

“The PRTC needs to become more than a committee,” Trent said.

“It needs to become a national platform for growth. That means helping businesses connect with opportunity, helping enthusiasts participate

with confidence, and helping the industry tell a stronger story about the value of responsible modification and grassroots motorsport.”

A key part of the strategy is the proposed relaunch platform: Drive It. Show It. Race It. Build It. This platform is designed to encourage four important behaviours. Drive It will encourage owners of modified vehicles to use their cars more often. Show It will encourage greater participation in car shows, club displays, and automotive lifestyle events. Race It will promote safe, sanctioned offstreet motorsport pathways. Build It will celebrate

the workshops, technicians, fabricators, tuners, engineers and future professionals who support the sector.

The relaunch will also seek to strengthen relationships with automotive event promoters, grassroots motorsport organisers and car show communities.

These partnerships will be important for encouraging participation and strengthening links between enthusiasts and the businesses that support them.

The PRTC Steering Committee brings together a broad group of respected industry representatives from across the performance and aftermarket sector.

Members include Catherine Hewitson and Trent Hewitson from Chequered Tuning, Grant Malseed from Superformance, James Johnson from Mustang Motorsport, Julian Patane from Uni Clutch, Mario Pancione from VCM Performance, Paul Carlsson from Garrett, Scott Pigdon from Racer Industries, Sidney Napiza from Ryco Filters, and Tony Robinson from Pedders Suspension and Brakes.

Trent said the committee’s strength would be central to the relaunch’s success.

“The Steering Committee represents a fantastic cross-section of the industry,” Trent said.

“There is deep knowledge in the room across performance parts, tuning, filtration, forced induction, driveline, suspension, distribution and specialist workshop capability.

“That collective experience gives the PRTC a strong base from which to rebuild its influence and deliver practical value to the industry.”

While the PRTC has been in hibernation, the need for a coordinated performance industry voice has not disappeared.

If anything, the combination of changing vehicle technology, evolving regulation, skills shortages, consumer uncertainty and the continued strength of enthusiast culture has made the council’s role more important.

The 2026 relaunch will aim to re-establish the PRTC as a relevant, active and commercially valuable council for AAAA members involved in performance, racing and tuning.

“The future of the performance aftermarket depends on participation,” Trent said.

“More cars driven. More cars shown. More cars raced safely. More skilled people building them. That is the opportunity in front of us, and the PRTC is perfectly placed to help lead it.”

As the relaunch strategy moves from planning into action, the PRTC will focus on member engagement, industry partnerships, event alignment, research, advocacy, and practical programs that help grow the sector.

To find our more or to join the PRTC visit www.aaaa.com.au/prtc/

PROSERVE: A NEW NAME BUILT ON HALF A CENTURY OF KNOW-HOW

Some rebrands are about reinvention. This one isn’t

With Pro Service Solutions officially shortening the name to ProServe, this change is not about starting fresh, but about sharpening the branding. It is a name that says exactly what this business does and always has done.

With roots going back to 1976, ProServe utilises nearly five decades of experience to supply the trade with a range of products that perform.

The range spans Pro Auto, Pro Industrial, Pro Workshop, and Pro Consumables, and with this rebrand comes something more than a new logo. Many product formulations have been upgraded to deliver better results in the field, and a

growing number of products now carry OEM Recommended status.

For ProServe, this is more than just a marketing badge; it is a statement that the products perform at the highest level.

The new name dropped at a fitting moment. ProServe partnered with TotalEnergies Erebus Motorsport at the 2026 Tyrepower Tasmania Super 440 across 22-24 May, backing Cooper Murray in car #99 for the weekend.

For a business that emphasises performance and quality, it was a natural home for the launch – a national stage and the kind of high-performance

FROM THE TRACK TO THE

ROAD, AND BACK

UFI Filters’ success at the highest levels of motorsport provides direct benefits to all of its consumers

UFI supplies its filters to all 11 Formula 1 teams participating in the 2026 World Championship, and thanks to this advanced research, it says it is able to develop technologies which are then applied to its products for road vehicles.

The company’s successes in motorsport started with the first F1 world titles won with Ferrari in 1979.

These achievements were not limited to the world of Grand Prix racing either, also extending over time to the DTM – the German Touring Car Championship won in 1992 with Alfa Romeo – as well as the world rally titles won with the legendary Lancia Delta, and the Dakar Rally, which saw the triumphs of Iveco and trucks equipped with UFI Filters.

Most recently, thanks in part to the collaboration with Dallara, UFI filters have now reached the Indianapolis 500, while at the same time stays strong in two-wheeled racing (MotoGP), where the company supplies the Aprilia and KTM teams. There has been an extraordinary evolution in UFI’s competition filters since the earliest successes: while an engine oil filter for a Formula 1 Ferrari

weighed about 1.5 kg in 1978, today they weigh just over 60 grams, and some other single-seater filters weigh no more than 20 grams.

The types of filters supplied to the teams belong to two main categories: filters for the engine area (primary and secondary engine oil, high-pressure fuel circuit, and engine air) and filters for the chassis area (for the engine and hybrid component cooling circuits, as well as for the hydraulic circuits of the power steering, brakes, and movable wings, which are essential for driver safety).

All filters are custom-made to meet each team’s specifications; with approximately 6,000 produced annually for F1 in UFI’s Italy facility and an additional 4,000 used in other various motorsport categories.

UFI Filters states the materials used in the filters’ production are among the most advanced, such as carbon fiber, titanium, aluminium, and special polymers.

Throughout the F1 season, UFI reports that its technicians are always ready to quickly implement the modifications requested by the teams to accommodate the developments gradually

environment that puts products and partnerships to the test.

Motorsport has a way of cutting through. There’s nowhere to hide when the stakes are high and everything is moving fast, which is exactly the kind of credibility that resonates with trade professionals and motoring enthusiasts who need products they can trust on their busiest, most intense days. With the transition taking place, it is important to know that the fundamentals haven’t changed. ProServe assures you will find the same people, and the same commitment to the automotive and industrial industries that built the brand in the first place.

What’s new is updated product formulations and an expanded product range – so watch this space. The name is simpler. The performance is stronger. Every service counts – and now everyone knows the name behind them.

For more information, plese visit www.proservicesolutions.com.au

introduced on the single-seaters, with F1 imposing extremely tight deadlines.

As such, being able to meet the teams’ needs is therefore an extraordinary technological training ground for UFI and its products.

The advanced research conducted in the company’s Innovation Centres often allows it to develop solutions originally intended for road vehicles, but which, due to their technological sophistication, can easily find application in motorsport as well.

For more information, visit www.ufifilters.com or www.ufi-aftermarket.com/eu