OCTOBER 2026
Meet the Rising Stars of 2026
From hundreds of nominations, these select few apprentices rose to the top in the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.
Every Job Carries His Name
A thriving Melbourne workshop, run by one passionate business owner.
New Horizons at Suncoast
Less than a year into ownership, Amanda and Dayne are laying the foundations for the next chapter of Suncoast Auto Service Centre.
Calendar of events Western Australia
Queensland
Victoria
Gala Dinner & Trade Show 24 October 2026
Gala Dinner & Trade Show 21 November 2026
Pakenham Trade Show 7 October 2026
New South Wales
South Australia
Gala Dinner & Trade Show 31 October 2026
Gala Dinner & Trade Show 7 November 2026
Capricorn Golf Classic 21 October 2026 Gala Dinner & Trade Show 14 November 2026
STAY TUNED!
The events advertised include current and planned events (which are subject to change). To get tickets or view a planned event’s status, log in to myCAP and click on events. For further information please contact our Events team.
cap.coop/events
1800 327 437
events@capricorn.coop
ay, Wednesd r 2026 28 Octobe
Have your say at this year’s AGM The Capricorn Society Ltd Annual General
You can vote now on the AGM motions via myCAP,
Meeting (AGM) is your opportunity to have
or on the day if you attend in person or online.
a say in Capricorn’s future and we’d love you to take part. ATE: D Thursday, 22 October 2026 IME: T 9am AWST | Noon AEDT | 2pm NZDT
Join us online via myCAP or in person at Level 19, 141 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA.
This is your chance to help shape the decisions that keep our Community strong, connected and thriving.
For details on the motions and how to vote, head to cap.coop/agm
CEO’s message Each year Capricorn publishes a State of the Nation report, providing an important snapshot of what's happening on the ground in automotive businesses across the country. It was fantastic to officially launch the 2026 Australian Report in Adelaide recently and share what we have learnt from Members about the opportunities and challenges facing our industry. The insights generated help shape Capricorn's advocacy priorities and inform practical solutions to support our Community. Time and again, State of the Nation has helped us better understand the issues that matter most to Members, particularly around workforce challenges, training and the future of the industry. Thank you to everyone who participated in the research. You can find a summary of the research in this edition of Ignition, and the full report on our website. October also marks the beginning of another exciting season of Capricorn events, with our Gala Dinners and Trade Shows kicking off in Auckland and Perth. These events are always a highlight of the calendar because they bring our Community together in a way few other opportunities can. They provide a chance to connect with fellow business owners, learn about the latest products and innovations, strengthen relationships with suppliers, and take a wellearned break from the day-to-day demands of running a business. The sense of camaraderie and community at these events is something special and a reminder of what makes Capricorn unique. There’s still time to purchase tickets for remaining events, I look forward to seeing you there. Finally, this month we also announced our Overall Rising Stars winners. Recognising and celebrating the next generation of automotive professionals is incredibly important. Rising Stars continues to showcase the outstanding talent, commitment and passion that exists within our industry, while also highlighting the workshops that invest in developing future technicians. With skills shortages continuing to be one of the biggest challenges facing our sector, supporting apprentices and encouraging careers in automotive has never been more important. As always, thank you for being part of the Capricorn Community. Whether you're participating in State of the Nation, attending a Gala Dinner or Trade Show, supporting an apprentice through Rising Stars, or simply working hard every day to serve your customers, you are helping build a stronger and more sustainable future for our industry.
Contents October 2026
4 Meet the Rising
Stars of 2026
From hundreds of nominations, these select few apprentices rose to the top in the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.
8 What We Learned
From the 2026 State of the Nation Report
Cost pressures, skills shortages and changing customer behaviour are reshaping the automotive industry.
12 Succession
Planning: Preparing Your Workshop to Run Without You
14 Every Job
Carries His Name
A thriving Melbourne workshop, run by one passionate business owner.
18 New Horizons at Suncoast
Less than a year into ownership, Amanda and Dayne are laying the foundations for the next chapter of Suncoast Auto Service Centre.
I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events.
Brad Gannon Group CEO All information, material and content in this edition of Ignition is provided or sourced by Capricorn Society Limited (“Capricorn”) for general information only and is not intended to be advice or comment on any particular matter or subject. Before acting on any information in this edition of Ignition you should consider the relevance of it to your own circumstances and, if necessary, take professional advice. Any opinions expressed in an Ignition article are those of the relevant individual author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of Capricorn. Capricorn makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, completeness or reliability of any material (including without limitation, any third party authored article or supplier advertisement in respect of which Capricorn merely acts as conduit) included in this edition of Ignition. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Capricorn, its officers, employees, agents and representatives disclaim any and all liability to you or any other person for any loss or damage whatsoever connected with: i. reliance on any material in Ignition; or ii. any inaccuracy, error or omission in any material in Ignition. If you’d like to stop receiving a printed copy of Ignition, you can opt-out at any time by logging into myCAP and updating your Account settings and Communication Preferences. CAPRICORN IGNITION
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Meet the Rising Stars of 2026 From hundreds of nominations, these select few apprentices rose to the top in the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.
W
ith more than 400 nominations received this year, the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards showcased just how much emerging talent exists across Australia and New Zealand’s automotive industry. Before we introduce the winners, we'd like to thank every Capricorn Member who submitted a nomination this year. Your commitment to apprentices helps strengthen our industry, create career opportunities and inspire young people to pursue a future in automotive. From an outstanding field of nominees, these apprentices rose to the top.
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NSW ACT
vehicles, studying at TAFE or involved in motorsport events across NSW and Victoria, Ryan is always looking for ways to build his knowledge and skills. His employer, Daniel Wishart, says Ryan's commitment is impossible to ignore.
Ryan Buttriss
New South Wales/ Australian Capital Territory
"Ryan regularly undertakes extensive overtime and, even after completing full TAFE days, returns in the afternoons to continue working and developing his skills. This level of commitment is well beyond expectations and speaks volumes about his motivation and drive to succeed."
Automotive runs through Ryan Buttriss' veins.
Ryan believes the increasing complexity of modern vehicles presents a huge opportunity for technicians.
A fourth-generation automotive tradesperson, Ryan works at Wisharts Automotive Services in Orange and has immersed himself in the industry both inside and outside the workshop. Whether he's working on customer
"The thing that excites me most about the continuing trajectory of the automotive industry is the increasing technical demands on technicians."
Jaeden Matteo D'Aloia
VIC TAS
Victoria/Tasmania
To become an exceptional apprentice, you've got to work for it. That's something Jaeden Matteo D'Aloia from Technique Automotive knows all too well. Most mornings, Jaeden arrives at the workshop well before 6:30am, often more than two hours before his shift starts. By the time the rest of the team arrives, the floors are cleaned, tools are organised and the workshop is ready for the day ahead. Working in a specialised European workshop, Jaeden has quickly developed a reputation for being methodical, patient and eager to learn. Technique Automotive owner Alexander Hicks noticed it from day one. "On the very first day Jaeden confidently introduced himself to the team, put his phone away in his bag and made the outstanding effort to begin learning." Outside the workshop, Jaeden is also studying a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Property and Real Estate at Deakin University
while completing his apprenticeship through Box Hill Institute. Importantly, university hasn't distracted him from automotive.
"Rather than choosing one path and abandoning the other, I decided to challenge the assumption that I had to choose at all. I did both."
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Zahlee Jaye Wheeler Queensland
When Zahlee Jaye Wheeler started as a schoolbased apprentice at Allweld Manufacturing, she was just 16 years old and stepping into a traditionally male-dominated industry. Since then, Zahlee has developed into a respected member of the team, building her technical skills while taking on leadership responsibilities, coordinating workflow and supporting newer apprentices. Her determination to learn and willingness to step outside her comfort zone has helped her become one of Queensland's rising stars. Her Operations Manager, Steve Scheikowski, says Zahlee stands out not only for her work ethic, but for the way she supports those around her. "Zahlee is the kind of apprentice every business hopes to develop, motivated, capable, and genuinely committed to both her trade and the people around her." Outside the workshop, Zahlee is passionate about encouraging more women to consider careers in manufacturing and trades.
QLD
"I was inspired to pave the way for other females and be the representation that would have been beneficial for me." That commitment to her trade, her teammates and the next generation has already earned Zahlee a Women in Manufacturing Apprentice Award, with her Capricorn Rising Stars regional win adding another milestone to an impressive journey.
SA NT
His nominator, Tracey Gordon, summed him up perfectly. "Taran is the kind of apprentice every employer hopes for and every workshop needs."
Taran Donovan
South Australia/Northern Territory Taran Donovan has built a reputation at JVS Bodyworks in Renmark as someone who can always be relied upon. Known for his professionalism, attention to detail and commitment to quality, Taran has already earned significant industry recognition, including the 2026 MTA Bob Goldsworthy Award.
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One of his standout achievements saw him lead the transformation of his own Mazda MX-5 into the centrepiece of a community Christmas Pageant float, bringing together his workshop, his trade skills and his local community. Colleagues describe Taran as someone who approaches every task with maturity, humility and pride, whether he's working on a vehicle, supporting a teammate or representing the business at industry events.
"I think for me it comes down to consistency, doing what I say I'll do, and being someone my team can trust."
Deklan Garcia Western Australia
WA
In the remote town of Kununurra, Deklan Garcia has built his reputation through reliability, commitment and pride in his work. After making the decision to restart his apprenticeship journey and pursue auto electrical work, Deklan threw himself into every opportunity to learn. His nomination highlighted perfect attendance, exceptional work ethic and a determination to build a better future for himself and his community. Employer, Brent Wittwer, says it's Deklan's character that truly stands out. "Deklan represents not only a dedicated and capable apprentice, but a young man who has made a conscious choice to build a better future for himself through hard work, integrity and consistency."
"I take pride in my work, no short cuts, and I make sure it's done right the first time."
As a proud Aboriginal apprentice from the Kimberley, Deklan hopes his journey can help inspire other young people to consider a trade and pursue opportunities that can create long-term careers.
Already, he's encouraged other young people in his community to explore apprenticeships and see the automotive industry as a pathway to a rewarding future.
To Be Named New Zealand
This year marks an exciting milestone for the Capricorn Rising Stars Awards. For the first time, we'll be naming an Overall New Zealand Rising Star Winner, rather than recognising a regional winner alone. The response was incredible, with hundreds of nominations showcasing the incredible talent emerging throughout New Zealand's automotive industry. The quality of submissions made the judging process one of the toughest yet, with apprentices from all corners of the industry putting forward compelling stories of dedication, growth and commitment to their trade. We're excited to reveal both the Australian and New Zealand Overall Rising Star Winners very soon, with full profiles and winner announcements appearing in a later issue of Ignition.
Thank You for Supporting the Next Generation A special thank you goes to Castrol, the Premier Sponsor of Capricorn Rising Stars. Through its continued support, Castrol helps recognise apprentices who are making a real impact in workshops across Australia and New Zealand, while celebrating the hard work, mentorship and commitment that goes into building an automotive career. This year, more than $56,000 worth of prizes was on offer, making it one of the biggest Rising Stars programs yet. Along with prizes for regional winners and their workshops, the Australian and New Zealand Overall Winners will each receive a $7,500 cash prize to support their automotive careers. We'd also like to thank Repco, Blackwoods, Repairify, The Automotive Technician and Workshop Whisperer for their continued support of the 2026 Capricorn Rising Stars Awards.
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What We Learned From the
2026 State of the Nation Report Cost pressures, skills shortages and changing customer behaviour are reshaping the automotive industry.
T
his year's State of the Nation report found that while workforce shortages remain a major challenge, cost-of-living pressures have become the number one concern for automotive businesses. Based on feedback from 989 Capricorn Members and 159 apprentices across Australia, the 2026 report paints a picture of an industry that remains resilient but is adjusting to a changing economic landscape. The findings also show that workshop owners are changing the way they think about growth. On 3 September 2026, Capricorn hosted a special launch event at EOS by SkyCity in Adelaide. With the support of Steve Georganas MP, Federal Member for Adelaide and MTA SA/NT, Capricorn officially launched the report alongside select Members, Preferred Suppliers, industry partners, government representatives and key stakeholders.
Customers are feeling the squeeze For the first time in recent years, cost-ofliving pressures have overtaken staffing concerns as the number one challenge facing automotive businesses. Nearly half of all businesses surveyed identified price-sensitive customers and broader cost-of-living pressures as one of their biggest concerns. With household budgets under pressure, many customers are taking a closer look at where and how they spend their money. That doesn't mean demand has disappeared. Australians still rely heavily on their vehicles to get to work, run businesses and support their families. But it does mean Members are reporting customers cancelling scheduled maintenance and becoming more conscious of how much things costs.
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At the same time, workshop owners continue to face rising operating expenses of their own, creating a challenging balancing act between maintaining profitability and delivering value for customers.
The skills shortage hasn't gone away Workforce shortages remain one of the industry's biggest long-term challenges with 43% of businesses experiencing staffing shortages. While conditions have eased slightly compared to previous years, the issue continues to affect day-to-day operations.
The change this year is that cost pressures have moved further into the spotlight. While workshops still need skilled technicians, apprentices and support staff, softer economic conditions have shifted some attention towards managing expenses and protecting margins. The skills shortage remains a significant issue; however, many businesses are now balancing workforce challenges with increasing pressure from price-sensitive customers. The report also highlighted growing pressure on apprenticeship pathways, with fewer businesses indicating they are highly likely to take on an apprentice than in previous years. For an industry already searching for skilled workers, developing the next generation remains a critical priority.
A different approach to growth Despite the challenges, confidence across the industry remains remarkably strong. The Capricorn Confidence Index remained above 70 in 2026, while 72 per cent of businesses said they still have plans to grow or improve profitability over the next 12 months. What's changing is the way businesses define growth. Rather than pursuing expansion, many workshops are focusing on running more efficient operations, improving profit margins, reducing unnecessary costs and strengthening relationships with existing customers. Customer retention emerged as the single most important factor when it comes to running a successful automotive business, highlighting the value of long-term trust and loyalty in a competitive market.
35%
Customer retention and satisfaction
Q. What is the ONE
most important thing when it comes to running your business successfully?
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18%
Skills and sufficient staff
14%
Pricing and margins
11%
Efficient operations/processes Employee conditions/workplace culture
6%
Business growth and expansion plans
6%
Range and quality of products/services
4%
Marketing and attracting new customers
4%
Technology and digital tools
1%
Other
2%
Looking ahead... In many ways, the industry's focus is shifting from expansion to sustainability. Workshops are concentrating on protecting profitability, investing in capability and building stronger businesses from the inside out.
Advocating for the industry and supporting Members One of the key reasons Capricorn produces the State of the Nation report is to ensure the experiences of Members are reflected in policy discussions and business decisions. The 2026 report identified several opportunities that Capricorn is using to inform discussions with industry and the Federal Government about the future of the sector. These include: reducing barriers to accessing skilled migrant workers, strengthening incentives and support for apprenticeship pathways and developing a campaign to help widen participation in the industry by better connecting with underrepresented groups. In 2025 Capricorn acquired Australian Skilled Migration as a direct response to what Members told us through the State of the Nation research.
Australian automotive businesses continue to demonstrate resilience, adaptability and a willingness to evolve. They're embracing new technology, investing in training where possible and finding practical ways to navigate a more complex operating environment. The industry's key challenges are about balancing rising costs, developing skilled people and building businesses that can thrive in a changing world. If this year's State of the Nation report tells us anything, it's that while conditions may be changing, Australia's automotive industry remains focused on what it has always done best: adapting, innovating and keeping the country moving. We’d like to thank everyone that participated in this year’s State of the Nation. The responses we received from so many Members and apprentices throughout Australia are informing important discussions about the future of our industry.
Check out the latest State of the Nation Report at cap.coop/sotn
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Succession Planning:
Preparing Your Workshop to Run Without You By Jeff Smit
N
othing is certain except for death and taxes – please add to that list retirement and what's going to happen to the business you have built up over your lifetime. Too many workshop owners put retirement, extended holidays and succession planning into their "one day" basket. For many, that "one day" may already have come and gone. On my training-gig travels around Australia I have met many experienced workshop owners approaching retirement age who have no clear plan for leaving their business, not even for a welldeserved extended break. Some hope that a family member will eventually take over. Others assume an employee will buy the workshop. Many expect to put the business on the market when they have had enough. None of those options are a good idea without planning. I understand why succession planning keeps getting pushed aside. Planning your own departure rarely seems as urgent as getting today’s work out the door. Succession planning is not simply about selling the business. It starts with creating a workshop that can operate without the owner being physically present every day.
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The first test – a proper break A good first test is surprisingly simple: Could you take a holiday and leave your phone at home? Many workshop owners are technically away, but remain involved in every decision that has to be made back in the workshop.
Get the workshop out of your head In many independent workshops much of the business exists only in the owner’s memory. That knowledge needs to be transferred into systems and procedures.
Therefore, the first stage of succession planning should be learning to step away for short periods. Start with one day a week, then a long weekend, and eventually an extended holiday without your phone or access to emails.
Document the workshop’s important procedures, including booking vehicles, preparing estimates, ordering parts, authorising additional work, invoicing, handling comebacks, managing warranties and following up outstanding accounts.
Before leaving, identify every task that normally requires your involvement. Decide who will handle each responsibility and give that person enough authority to act. There is little value in delegating responsibility if the employee still needs permission for everyday decisions.
Good business practice recommends documenting policies, procedures and processes so vital knowledge does not disappear when the owner walks out the door. It also recommends planning for a sudden transition in case illness, injury or any unexpected event that might prevent the owner from returning to work.
Create clear guidelines covering matters such as purchasing limits, customer discounts, warranty claims, problem jobs and customer complaints.
A succession plan is not much use if the business grinds to a stop because one person is no longer there.
When you return, review what worked and what did not. In my experience, you will be surprised that the staff took care of things, work got done and bills got paid.
Build a management structure The next step is to stop being the answer to every question. A management structure might include a workshop manager or
foreman, service adviser and administration or accounts person. In a smaller operation, one employee may cover several of these responsibilities. The titles are less important than clearly defining who is accountable for what. The owner should gradually move from managing individual jobs to reviewing the overall performance of the business. That requires a simple set of meaningful figures, including sales, gross profit, labour recovery, technician productivity, average repair order, outstanding debtors, comeback rates and forward bookings. If the business cannot be understood without the owner walking through the workshop and looking at every job, it is not yet ready for succession. Potential new managers must be allowed to make decisions, and occasionally make mistakes. Owners who continually overrule their managers contribute to a culture where employees simply wait for instructions rather than accept responsibility. The objective is not to become irrelevant. It is to make the workshop less dependent on one person.
Decide what succession means to you
Succession is a process, not an event
There is no single exit path. The business might pass to a family member, be sold to an employee, transferred to a business partner or purchased by an external buyer.
Perhaps the hardest part of succession planning is emotional. The workshop is a major part of the owner's identity. The customer and employee relationships may have been built up over decades.
The departing owner must decide what they want to happen, what role they want after stepping back, who should run the business and when they intend to leave. Putting a sound succession plan in place can take several years or more. A potential buyer is not simply buying hoists, scan tools and workshop equipment. They are buying future earnings and a reputation. That means the most valuable workshop is generally one with reliable financial records, competent employees, documented systems, a stable customer base and minimal dependence on the departing owner. Start by ensuring the financial accounts accurately reflect the performance of the business. Separate personal expenditure from genuine business costs and make sure stock, equipment, liabilities and employee entitlements are correctly recorded.
That is why succession should happen gradually. Take the holidays. Develop the managers. Document the systems. Reduce the workshop’s dependence on you and decide what you want your life to look like after fixing cars. The real measure of a successful workshop is not simply how well it operates while the owner is present. It is whether the business, its employees and its customers can continue to prosper after the owner has stepped away. Don't wait until retirement becomes unavoidable. Plan your exit while you still have the time, energy and control to do it properly.
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Every Job
Carries His Name
A thriving Melbourne workshop, run by one passionate business owner.
W
hen customers pull into Downshift Performance in Melbourne's inner west, there's a good chance they'll be greeted by the same person who answers the phone, orders the parts, carries out the repairs and hands back the keys. That's because Joshua Dorrington runs the entire operation himself. Since opening the business in 2020, Josh has built Downshift Performance from a small workshop in Truganina into a growing operation in Williamstown, earning a reputation for quality workmanship, honest advice and a personal approach that's becoming harder to find.
For Josh, getting into the automotive industry was never part of some grand plan. He simply wanted to get stuck into work. “I was sixteen when I was at school and I was just eager to work,” he says. “Completed work experience, got offered a job at Nissan and that's where I started. I’ve been working ever since.” Years later, after plenty of encouragement from friends and people in the industry, Josh started thinking seriously about opening his own workshop. Like many technicians, the idea was exciting, but it came with a few worries. “Everyone wanted me to run my own shop or go out on my own and I was a bit nervous,” he says.
Taking the leap Like many first-time business owners, there was a lot of doubt. The biggest concern was whether the customers would even come. “I was just worried I wouldn't get customers,” Josh says. “Or I wouldn't be able to make the money to pay the bills and all the expenses and to keep everyone happy.”
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Honesty is the key So, how does a one-man operation continue to scale, despite all odds? “I think it's just from being genuine [with the customers]” Josh admits. But once the doors opened, those concerns quickly faded. “I had a lot of friends supporting me and kind of passing on jobs to me and that helped.” Word spread, customers returned, and before long the original workshop was starting to feel cramped. “I had a small workshop, probably one hundred and eighty square metre, in Truganina beforehand. I had to break the lease because I had no room.” The move to Williamstown gave him more space and brought a wider range of customers through the doors. “It's just different clientele, customers. It's been great.” Today, Downshift Performance is known for Holden LS performance work, but that's only part of the story. Servicing, repairs, roadworthy inspections and conversions all make up part of the workshop's day-to-day work, and Josh enjoys the variety. “Just a bit of everything.”
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It’s an approach that shows up in almost every customer interaction. Josh regularly sends photos of repairs, explains what's urgent and what can wait, and makes sure customers understand exactly what's happening with their vehicle. “I send them photos and I explain what needs to be done and replaced and what they don't have to spend their money on yet.” It's helped him build strong relationships with customers who appreciate straightforward advice. “Upfront and honest service. That’s all it is.” Like many workshop owners, Josh has also noticed customers becoming more careful with spending decisions. “Sometimes customers don't want to spend that extra money on some stuff,” he says. “They try to push it out a little bit later. 'Can I do it next week? Can I do it in a month?'” And while that can create challenges from a cash flow perspective, it hasn't changed the way he operates. “You still got to be honest with the customers and that's why they keep coming back.”
It's something he'd like to explore further, but finding time for additional training is difficult when the business depends on him being in the workshop every day. “If I had another qualified mechanic, I think then I could kind of leave them here, go do some training and vice versa.” One thing he wishes he'd done sooner was join Capricorn. After hearing positive feedback from friends in the industry, Josh eventually signed up despite some hesitation.
Wearing every hat, and all the gear Running a workshop on your own means there's always something that needs attention. “I'm here by myself,” Josh says. “So I do all the accounting, all the invoicing, all the parts runs, road tests, everything by myself.” It's a workload that would overwhelm some people, but Josh takes pride in being involved in every part of the business. Customers know who's working on their vehicle and what standard of work they'll receive. And while he's thought about expanding the team, he's taking a measured approach. “I definitely would love to have at least two qualified mechanics,” he says. “Then I can trust them running the shop.” For Josh, bringing people into the business is about finding the right fit and making sure customers continue to receive the same level of care they've come to expect.
“I was just afraid that I would run the bill up too high and not be able to pay it.” Instead, he says it's made running the workshop easier. “It's been great. I wish I'd done it sooner.” For a one-person operation, any extra time in the day makes a difference. “It's just the simplicity of ordering stuff,” he says. “Yeah. Frees up a lot of time, especially being here by myself.” And while the industry continues to evolve, Josh isn't losing sight of the reason he started in the first place. “I still love what I do,” he says. “I don't think I'll lose passion in it.” Every repair, every customer conversation and every vehicle leaving the workshop carries Josh's name, and that's exactly how he likes it.
“More hands, more money. I think that helps.”
The next shift forward Like many operators across the industry, Josh is keeping an eye on the growth of electric vehicles and the qualifications that will come with servicing them. “You're going to need certificates to do roadworthy on that,” he says. “I'm just worried that the mechanic, you're going to need more qualifications.”
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Horizons New
at Suncoast
Less than a year into ownership, Amanda and Dayne are laying the foundations for the next chapter of Suncoast Auto Service Centre.
W
hen Amanda Rukuwai Stoneman talks about her path into automotive, she still sounds a little surprised by where life has taken her.
Not long ago, she was working in construction and mining camps, far removed from workshop floors, service schedules and supplier accounts. Then she met her now husband, Dayne, a mechanic with years of industry experience, and what began as a relationship gradually evolved into a shared business venture. “By accident probably is a better way to describe it,” Amanda laughs. Earlier this year, Amanda and Dayne took ownership of Suncoast Auto Service Centre after learning the business might be coming onto the market. The opportunity arrived through local community connections, setting in motion a process that would see them become automotive business owners for the first time. Less than a year on, they are still finding their rhythm. While the workshop itself has a long history, the business is entering a new era under their leadership, with fresh ideas, new goals and plenty to learn along the way.
Learning as they go For Dayne, the automotive industry is familiar territory. He has spent years working as a mechanic, including time in dealerships and operating independently. For Amanda, it has been a crash course. “I’m learning probably the most out of everyone,” she says. The learning curve has produced plenty of memorable moments, from deciphering parts catalogues to trying to understand part numbers rattled off by suppliers over the phone. “I’ve made a few mistakes. Cannot spell half of the parts. And reading part numbers are tiny.” Fortunately, she is surrounded by a team willing to help. Suncoast Auto Service Centre employs a small crew, including the previous owner, who still assists part-time, and a former administrator who continues to lend a hand.
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Like many automotive businesses, Suncoast has also felt the effects of rising costs and broader economic pressures. Customers are sometimes delaying maintenance, while freight and supplier expenses continue to climb. But rather than viewing those challenges as setbacks, Amanda and Dayne see them as reasons to evolve.
Preparing for tomorrow
The team has helped make the transition smoother, both for the business and its customers. “It’s only a small team, so we’re very open with each other,” Amanda says. “If something’s not working or something is working, everyone's comfortable in coming forward straight away.” The environment is collaborative, practical and often good for a laugh. Amanda admits the technicians occasionally enjoy poking fun at her automotive vocabulary, but she sees it as part of building a workplace where everyone feels comfortable contributing.
Protecting the history behind the workshop Taking over an established workshop brings responsibilities beyond just keeping the doors open. The Stoneman's inherited a loyal customer base that has been built over many years, something Amanda is conscious of every day. “There’s a really loyal client base that the previous owner has established,” she says. “They keep us busy and they keep us on track. So, we want to do a good job.” For Amanda, a big part of doing a ‘good job’ is both being open and honest to customers, as well as delivering quality workmanship. “You have to be [honest]. Otherwise if a part fails or something goes wrong, it comes back on us.” The workshop prioritises quality products and trusted suppliers, recognising that every repair contributes to the reputation they are trying to build.
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Although they are still in their first year of ownership, plans are already taking shape. The couple are exploring opportunities to expand their service offering, including tyres, air conditioning, exhaust work and accessories, creating more reasons for customers to return to the workshop. They are also thinking carefully about the next generation of technicians. “Definitely,” Amanda says when asked about taking on an apprentice. “You always need to keep a youthful environment.” The goal is to bring an apprentice into the business next year, once they have completed a full year of ownership and can provide the right level of training and support. At the same time, the workshop is preparing for the ongoing shift towards hybrid and electric vehicles. Amanda knows the future of automotive servicing will look different from the past, and she wants the team to be ready. For now, however, the focus remains on understanding the business they have inherited and building strong foundations for what comes next. “We’re kind of heads down, tails up for the next six months until we’ve had a good year in the business.” It’s a practical approach, but also an optimistic one. Amanda and Dayne are still early in their journey, learning every day and slowly shaping a vision for the future. If the first six months are any indication, Amanda and Dayne are building far more than a business. With strong community roots, a loyal customer base and a clear vision for the future, Suncoast Auto Service Centre is steadily finding its place on a new horizon.
3 October NEW ZEALAND
24 October
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
31 October
New Zealand International Convention Centre
Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre
Hyatt Regency Sydney
7 November
14 November
21 November
Adelaide Convention Centre
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (Trade Show) Crown Melbourne (Dinner)
Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
VICTORIA
NEW SOUTH WALES
Visit myCAP for tickets and event details
QUEENSLAND
Fun Zone
Last month's answers
Submit your entry at cap.coop/funzone by 31 October 2026 August winner: Hi Tech Auto Service who WON 5,000 Bonus Rewards Points
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE (5 differences to find!)
Please note that this competition and participation in the Capricorn Rewards program are subject to Terms & Conditions. For the full Terms & Conditions, visit cap.coop/tc.
WORD HUNTER (15 words to find!)
Apprenticeships Careers Community Confidence Customers Events Industry Knowledge Opportunities Quality Resilience Skills Technology Training Workshops CAPRICORN IGNITION
O CTOBER 2026
23
35% OFF
20% OFF
3 person infrared sauna
Eufy camera video doorbell
UP TO
35% OFF
Cortex fitness equipment
ONE DAY ONLY
Wednesday, 28 October 2026
20% OFF all Smeg appliances
UP TO
20% OFF Kitchen Aid mixers
8am - 8pm AWST | 11am - 11pm AEDT
One day of exclusive deals on selected products at Capricorn Rewards. On 28 October, log in to myCAP to explore product specials and use your Rewards Points.
Special offer valid from 8am (AWST)/11am (AEDT) to 8pm (AWST)/11pm (AEDT) Wednesday, 28 October 2026. Only while stocks last. Images are for illustrative purposes only and product substitutions may occur. Participation in the Capricorn Rewards program and the Purple Day 2026 Promotion are subject to Terms & Conditions available at capricorn.coop/tc.
25% OFF
selected Audio Technica headphones