MTA WA MOTOR July 2019

M O T O R MOTOR

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The evening of June 27 may have been cold and wet outside, but the atmosphere inside the ballroom at Crown Towers could not have been warmer as we celebrated the very best of the WA automotive industry with the presentation of the Automotive Excellence Awards.

AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE AWARDED With

MTA WA CEO Stephen Moir

Over 400 of the industry’s finest business owners, apprentices and trainees gathered to celebrate the achievements of the finalists and winners of the twelve category award program.

Full coverage of the event is included in this edition of Motor but I did want to congratulate all the finalists and winners for their achievements. We received in excess of 100 nominations across the twelve categories, ensuring a tight competition for the eventual winners.

It was also a great honour to be able to recognise

the achievements and contribution to the industry of Mr John Hughes, who was awarded Life Membership of the MTA WA. It was noteworthy that the only time during the event that the room fell silent was during John’s address, which bears testament to the great respect that the industry holds for him. John has been in the industry for over 60 years, starting as a clerk in a panel shop.

He now owns and operates Australia’s largest single destination car dealership, offering eight new car brands

Morrison is off and running

and stocking in excess of 2,000 pre-owned cars. John is not just known as WA’s most trusted car dealer but also for his philanthropic endeavours which have made a significant difference to lives of countless West Australians. He is a worthy recipient of this award.

The evening’s special guest Sam Newman certainly lived up to his reputation for telling it as he sees it and he entertained the audience with recounts of his time as a player and commentator of the great game along with shedding a little light on his passion for American Muscle cars and in particular his 1969 429 Boss Mustang.

Our attention now shifts to next year’s event, with plans to build on the success of this year to ensure that the 2020 Awards program is bigger and better than 2019. We will be increasing the number of categories, with nominations open in early 2020. We will also look to hold the event on a Saturday evening so that our guests can let their hair down without having to worry about fronting up to work the next day.

Stayed tuned for more details.

In the last edition of Motor, I urged members to consider their vote in the May 2019 Federal Election as it was one of the more significant elections of recent times. Certainly, the pundits all had Labor winning in a landslide, with WA giving up at least five Liberal seats. It was looking very much like a replay of the 2017 WA Election with the decimation of the Liberal Party Federally.

Well, Australia spoke loud and clear on May 18, ignoring the forecasts and giving the Morrison-led Liberals a decisive win that has allowed the Prime Minister to form a majority government. An amazing result by any standard and one which gives Morrison an absolute mandate to govern as he sees fit and not how the factions within the party want.

For me, the most positive note to come out of the election was the clear message that the electorate cannot be taken for granted and that they will, when challenged, make an informed decision. In this instance Australia said no to class warfare, it said no to unfair taxes, and it didn’t accept the lack of supporting evidence for how the big spending promises could be paid for. In short, the Australian people had a good think about the future and made their choice.

So where to from here?

The Prime Minister is nothing but methodical. He is not a revolutionary but he will make change where there is a clear need for this.

The introduction of taxation amendments so soon into his term indicates that he will act on his promises. Morrison has ensured stability within his cabinet

and, for WA, it is important that Christian Porter was maintained as AttorneyGeneral and, significantly, has had Industrial Relations added to his role. There is an urgent need to look at the industrial relations system in Australia and I am confident that Christian will take a progressive approach to this task.

Michaelia Cash takes on a new role as Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business and remains a key point of contact for the MTA WA as WA continues to struggle with skill shortages and red tape barriers.

I was particularly pleased that Ken Wyatt has been promoted into the cabinet as the first indigenous Minister for Indigenous Australians and we will be working with Ken to increase the number of young indigenous people taking up a career in the automotive sector.

From the ‘whole of economy’ perspective, the continued review and reform of the taxation system must remain a priority. This would include abolishing the Luxury Car Tax and making the instant asset write down a permanent allowance.

We are also calling on the Government to strengthen and make illegal unfair contract terms and conditions and to change the emphasis on the determination of unfair terms and conditions to dominant market participants to demonstrate fairness rather than for small business to demonstrate detriment.

A further priority for the MTA WA is to continue to encourage the Government to review the industrial relations system, with a view

A PRIORITY FOR THE MTA WA IS TO CONTINUE TO ENCOURAGE THE GOVERNMENT TO REVIEW THE INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS SYSTEM, WITH A VIEW TO ALLOWING FOR A SIMPLER AND FAIRER SYSTEM.

to allowing for a simpler and fairer system that allows for employer/employee agreements to be introduced and for the existing State industrial powers to be passed to the Federal system, thus creating a single industrial relations system.

From an automotive policy point of view, the MTA WA and our national body, the MTAA, will continue to work with the government on a number of key issues. These include:

• Implement an automotivespecific Franchise Code of Conduct by no later than 1 January 2020.

• Implement a Code of Conduct for Access to Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information by no later than 1 January 2020.

• Implement a nationally mandated Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct, with enforceable provisions and penalties, by no later than 1 January 2020.

• Develop a national program aimed at the proper disposal of end-oflife vehicles.

Training and skills development will continue to be a key focus for the MTA WA and we are calling on the Federal Minister to look

to introduce a number of industry-specific partnered and government-funded programs to:

• Promote the value of automotive apprenticeships and increase apprentices through dedicated and funded national secondary education pathways programs.

• Improve support measures and incentives to hire and retain automotive apprentices, including those from diverse and non-traditional backgrounds.

• Make permanent mentoring programs for Australia’s automotive apprentices to ensure hard-fought gains in retention are sustained. I am encouraged by the election of the Morrison Government and the opportunity to finalise a number of issues that have been of concern to the automotive industry for years. The MTA WA has an excellent relationship with a number of Federal Ministers and our national body, the MTAA, will host a dinner with the Prime Minister and Cabinet in Melbourne in late July which will be an excellent opportunity to further our relationship.

The law is still an ass

In June last year, I wrote in this column of my utter frustration in relation to the inadequate penalties being imposed on individuals who operated an automotive business unlicensed. In that article, I called the law an ass, and, unfortunately, nothing has changed.

The recent case of a Balga man, Wesam Mohammed, highlights the ongoing inadequate penalties being handed out by the courts for breaches of the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act. In Mr Mohammed’s case, he had sold 80 cars illegally between 2017 and 2018 but the Magistrate, despite this being a serious breach, deemed a $4,000 fine as appropriate, in part because Mr Mohammed had now become licensed.

There are two elements to this case that need review.

The first is that it takes over six months for the Department to prepare a case for prosecution, costing tens of thousands of tax payer’s dollars and to have a result which is so deficient is a joke.

I feel for the Department’s enforcement team because I know how much work goes into bringing someone before the courts and results like Mohammed’s must be demoralising.

The second element, however, does relate to the Department. How, knowing this individual has broken the law and is before the courts, can the Department issue him with a licence? Surely he fails the ‘good character’ test that is a prerequisite for licensing. I know the Department take the line that it is better to have these people ‘in the tent’ rather than having them continue to ply their trade illegally, but, from an industry point of view, people like Mr Mohammed have no place in our industry and his licence should be torn up.

Appreciating Values: Euro Technik make staff culture a priority

Bound by the river to the south and the Indian Ocean to the west, Euro Technik’s North Fremantle service centre is positioned in a uniquely Western Australian setting. And with the recent development of a Nedlands service centre, Euro Technik founder, Jesse Doherty, has continued a tradition to cultivate a sense of pride and passion among his staff.

Stephen Connolly, the North Fremantle Workshop Manager, is kept busy managing the many European makes and models being serviced whilst ensuring that their discerning owners are kept satisfied. Satisfaction, it seems, is an important value for the team. Jesse has recognised that the satisfaction ‘recipe’ is made of

several key ingredients, all of which are clearly documented within the workshop.

During every enthusiastic minute of the day, staff are reminded of this recipe as they look at the eastern wall of the workshop with a clear “infographic” outlining the company’s values. Euro Technik has realised, like many MTA WA Members, that specialising in the servicing and repair of specific brands is critically important in the continually diversifying service and diagnostics space. By only servicing European makes and models, the team learn the characteristics and troubleshooting processes at a deeper level than they would by servicing all makes and models. Like

any workshop, it’s hard to keep pace with the vast changes in the marketplace but having a focus makes this challenge a lot more achievable.

When the team were called together for a group photograph, it was clear that there was a bond between the staff that isn’t always evident in workplaces, let alone high-pressure service environments. By employing apprentices, Euro Technik is also instilling their “Our Values” work ethic within these automotive repairers from the very beginning of their career.

“Setting up the business wasn’t easy, so we had to start with a clear set of values and a vision to make

Woof means welcome

To add to the sense of family and togetherness, clients may even receive a surprise warm welcome from canine representative, “Archie” a miniature schnauzer. Like the business itself, from head to tail – he’s friendly and approachable, in many ways a symbol of the way that Euro Technik conduct business.

sure that we knew where we wanted to take the customer experience, in order to give ourselves the best chance of growth and customer satisfaction,” Jesse said.

With the Nedlands workshop opening due to increased demand, adhering to the core values Euro Technik has established looks like it’s paying off. Workshop Manager Stephen proudly declared that he “loves the team and the business”.

“It makes it much more enjoyable when everyone is working for the same reason and the same goal. We all care about the cars that we work on and are fussy about the quality of our servicing,” he said.

THE EASTERN WALL OF THE WORKSHOP FEATURES A CLEAR “INFOGRAPHIC” OUTLINING THE COMPANY’S VALUES.

A $98 solution to a $5,000+ problem

Total 4x4 bring ingenious product to the WA market

Much like a gambler never discloses their losses, many diesel vehicle owners would never tell their family or friends that they accidentally put petrol in their diesel tank. It happens in an instant: The work day has been long, your head is full of the to-do list and, without thinking, you’ve just accidently put the wrong fuel in your pride and joy –or worse, someone else’s. That sense of irreversible agony sets in. “What do I do? Will the Diesel fuel just dilute it? It was only a little bit of petrol. Surely it shouldn’t be a problem?”

The best advice at this point is to notify the station attendant and to avoid starting or moving the vehicle until the contaminated fuel is extracted because once the ignition sequence begins, contaminated fuel is being injected into the

engine, which, in the worst of scenarios, could cost thousands to repair.

Given that it’s a simple, split second mistake that even the biggest of ‘petrolheads’ could fall victim to, shouldn’t there be an easy solution?

Meet Brett Wellstead, owner of Total 4x4. He’s brought many innovations to the recreational and commercial vehicle sectors and has had exclusive rights to distribute many products that are considered commonplace today. He found that private, business and fleet owners wanted a way to prevent this potentially expensive and embarrassing mistake.

It’s simple to stop diesel going into a petrol vehicle, with the nozzle being too large to fit. How do you stop a smaller diameter petrol nozzle from being placed into a diesel tank?

The answer, as Brett found on his worldwide search, is the SoloDiesel, now in its second generation.

A genius device, the patented design prevents the smaller diameter fuel nozzle from penetrating the unit. The result almost eliminates any chance of fuel contamination resulting from user error.

Quick to realise the benefits of this incredibly cost-effective device, Government departments, private enterprise and the general public have installed the device, which requires no tools to fit, to their vehicles.

Although we can’t disclose the exact amount, one government department noted that the cost of “misfuelling” was an expense in the tens of thousands every financial year within their diesel fleet.

The SoloDiesel drew the

attention of 7 News’ Geoff Parry, featuring in a segment on the prime-time news programme and further proving the significance of this nifty little innovation.

Brett and the Total 4x4 team have always prided themselves on such innovations. The business has roots in metal fabrication and they’ve combined their skillsets to bring a unique approach to the recreational and commercial four-wheel drive market over the years.

The Total 4x4 team were also finalists within the Innovative Business of the Year 2019 category at the Automotive Excellence Awards.

For more information on the SoloDiesel device, visit www.total4x4.com.au or call Total 4x4 on 9271 6898.

Automotive Excellence Awards 2019 Awards 2019

WORDS: MATT LINNEY

The Automotive Excellence Awards were all about acknowledging you. Conceived with the vision of highlighting the breadth of talent across the full spectrum of automotive services in Western Australia, the evening provided the ideal platform to reflect upon the businesses and people that are propelling our industry toward 2020 and beyond.

Held at Crown Towers’ lavish Ballroom, the sell-out event honoured the people, cars and legendary figures that are at the heart of our industry and with over 400 guests, played host to members of almost every automotive sector. It was a unique occasion that fused guests from wildly varied backgrounds to form a shared sense of pride about the industry’s past, present and an optimism about the future. With support from a range of industry sponsors, and major

event sponsor Capricorn, as well as featuring displays of hydrogen fuel cell and electric vehicles, the night was an exceptionally well received and memorable occasion.

Master of Ceremonies, Oliver Peterson, oversaw the evening’s proceedings, complete with the endearing persona for which his 6PR drive program is famed for. As guests enjoyed the unrivalled hospitality of Crown, the finalists for the 12 award categories were recognised and rewarded for their unrelenting dedication to success.

Organisational size was no barrier to recognition, with award category winners comprising businesses with as few as four staff. As the accolades continued, supported by generous award category sponsors, it became apparent that the traits of all finalists were not all that

A celebration of our industry and its high-performing contributors

different. The consistent themes of customer service, staff training, skill development and investment in apprentices appeared to be universally adopted by the awarded businesses. The PreApprentice and Apprentice of the Year praised their host employers and cited them as being a key factor in their ability to lead their fields.

In what was a very touching chapter of the evening, John Hughes was inducted as a Motor Trade Association of Western Australia Life Member. All guests, including those from competing businesses, were humbled by Mr Hughes’ humility and hardworking attitude and there was unanimous praise of his offthe-cuff acceptance speech. The award was especially

fitting, given the celebration of 50 years trading within what is now an iconic car buying precinct in Victoria Park.

The spirit of contribution and selflessness was ubiquitous, with guests making significant bids on silent auction items, which assisted in raising funds for the motor industry’s foundation, Wheels for Hope. In a industry that is always operating at a rapid pace, it’s easy to forget about those who lead lives that require significantly more effort to achieve even simple tasks. Freedom and the ability to travel are two of the greatest gifts that any human being can be afforded and Wheels for Hope’s accessible van fleet provides precisely that for many families.

After the abundantly talented finalists and winners had been presented with their awards and recognised as the leaders that they are, guest speaker Sam Newman took to the stage. With more than 300 AFL football games under his belt and a media career that has seen him achieve what no other prime time entertainment host ever has, it’s easy to forget the unrivalled accomplishments of the strong-willed entertainer.

In his signature style, Sam offered his unadulterated opinion on cars, football and even politics. The highlight of Sam’s performance was a completely unplanned live auction of a signed Geelong guernsey, acknowledging his football career achievements. It raised $3,000 which, in combination with the silent auction bids, meant a generous total of $7,000 was donated to Wheels for Hope.

John Hughes A life of service and devotion

At the Automotive Excellence Awards on 27 July 2019, Mr John Hughes was formally inducted as a Motor Trade Association of Western Australia ‘Life Member’. Shaped by enduring values, John’s motoring history is remarkable and here we delve deeper into the story behind one of Australia’s most prolific automotive identities.

WORDS:

MATT LINNEY

It’s been 50 years since John Hughes acquired an old service station site in Victoria Park, which, over many decades, would become “Perth’s carbuying destination”. The John Hughes Group as a brand and the man himself are so tightly interlinked that the values and practices for which the dealerships are renowned, and those under which they operate, are almost exclusively derived from Mr Hughes’ personal values and learnings.

In a 2005 interview with then journalist Linda Cann, published in The West Australian, John Hughes recalled a critical discovery during his youth that would embolden his approach to life and business. Among a working-class group of fellow Fremantle Christian Brother College students, who formed a tight social collective, a group that was yet to make John feel a part of. He learned the value of standing alone and questioning the generally accepted ‘consensus’.

Detailing the significance of the moment, he described the physics class in which students were called upon to provide their calculated answer individually. With a sea of responses unanimously citing “.01” as the correct answer, Mr Hughes stuttered as he announced his own calculated

response. It was “.001”. Mr Hughes momentarily questioned himself as he was enveloped in a wave of laughter from the 25 other students who had all agreed on the ‘correct’ answer.

It would only be a matter of moments before the Christian Brother teaching the class would go on to verify that, in fact, John was correct. Rather than being a victim of the powerful riptide of ‘groupthink’ at that moment, he reaffirmed his ability to withstand the pressures of changing tides and his desire to swim against them, if needed. To this day, John still relates to this “.001” identity that continues to provide answers, in the form of customer solutions, that others simply don’t. Needless to say, he overcame the stuttering to become a famed voice of wisdom.

the way that the Group operates. Often published in the newspaper, these testimonials continue to document the significant amount of choice and high standards of service that are available to all who buy, trade, service, finance, warrant or insure through the group (not to mention the many services available to buyers after purchasing a vehicle).

It is with much pride that the group also respond to, and act upon, any concerns that are raised in the same manner that they respond to complimentary feedback.

As stated during his acceptance speech at the Automotive Excellence

Pioneering values

The commodity of time did not solely contribute to the successes that the many John Hughes Group businesses have become renowned for. This portrait of growth and prosperity has been painted with dedication, devotion and the ability to listen and adapt. By developing a strong work ethic and never giving up on his lifelong interest in selling cars, almost everything that you see within the group today can be related to these pioneering values.

His ubiquitous media appearances have been heard, seen and read by generations of Western Australian households. His ability to communicate, however, is perhaps best influenced by his commitment to listening. Take the thousands of John Hughes Group customer testimonials as an example. John Hughes’ focus on listening has led to significant changes in

HIS UBIQUITOUS MEDIA APPEARANCES HAVE BEEN HEARD, SEEN AND READ BY GENERATIONS OF WESTERN AUSTRALIAN HOUSEHOLDS. HIS ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE, HOWEVER, IS PERHAPS BEST INFLUENCED BY HIS COMMITMENT TO LISTENING.

JOHN

HUGHES CULTIVATED A FEELING OF TRUST IN AN INDUSTRY RIDDEN WITH CYNICISM AND HIS CHIEF MOTIVATION IN DOING SO WAS HIS DESIRE TO BE OF SERVICE TO OTHERS. AS AN INDUSTRY, WE ARE ALL BENEFICIARIES OF HIS CONTRIBUTION.

Awards, every piece of client correspondence will cross John’s desk, with this practice driving the ever-improving customer experiences since his earliest days in business.

From management to operations and sales, John Hughes Group’s diverse staff cohort uphold the legacy and values underscored by everything that John himself does. However, they needn’t model just his words or values. He continues to serve both the business and its many customers on the ‘frontline’, leading by example. Far from a retailing myth, if you happen to visit the group’s Victoria Park car buying precinct on a Saturday morning, you’ll almost certainly see John Hughes busily canvassing the yards and greeting prospective and successful buyers.

Only the best

His fastidious attention to the most finite of details were the traits that ensured that his stock consisted of only the ‘best’ examples of used vehicles when he commenced trading 50 years ago. Today, this attitude, coupled with a low tolerance for mediocrity, ensure that the immense range of vehicles and the visual presentation of the dealerships are similarly

immaculate, even five decades on.

Famous for never wanting to retire, John is of the view that if retirement is for the purposes of pursuing what you’ve always dreamed of, he’s already doing precisely that. His love for selling cars and his primary interest in the business suggest that any other pursuits would only serve as an obstruction to his passion.

By mentoring and supporting all staff within the various businesses today, there is an ‘insurance policy’ firmly in place that will provide comprehensive cover against any compromise or deviations from the core values of the group. That policy is John’s guidance and lifelong wisdom. Almost every employee, past and present, hold dearly at least one memorable quote from John Hughes that has impacted the way that they approach their work and life.

The brands, the services and the industry-leading accomplishments are well-documented. What may be overlooked, when observing the statistically dense list of achievements within the group, is the fact that John Hughes’ lifetime of service and devotion will result in new generations experiencing the iconic levels of customer satisfaction that make car

buying and car ownership genuinely pleasurable.

This is a result of an incalculable amount of time invested in constructing a team of like-minded leaders who have never been asked to be anyone other than themselves but have always been expected to ensure that the group is a “friendly and efficient company, trading with integrity and determined to give customers the very best of service”.

Worthy recipient

Mr John Hughes is a very worthy recipient of the honour of Life Membership and should be admired for more than his commercial successes. If anything, John Hughes’ biggest contribution to the industry at large is his legacy of redefining the public’s relationship with motor vehicle dealers. John Hughes cultivated a feeling of trust in an industry ridden with cynicism and his chief motivation in doing so was his desire to be of service to others. As an industry, we are all beneficiaries of his contribution.

On behalf of the Motor Trade Association of Western Australia – and the automotive industry in general – thank you, Mr John Hughes, and congratulations on this significant achievement.

2019 New Car Dealer of the Year Lexus of Perth

The Lexus story is one of uncompromising values. Almost every Lexus concept vehicle results in production models that are remarkably true to the original design in terms of proportion, look and technology. From the unmistakable LC coupe to the popular NX and UX SUVs, this vision of making the future a driving reality is evident throughout the Lexus product portfolio and is a rarity in the oftendiluted ‘prototype to production’ process.

Lexus of Perth upholds this global vision of progressiveness. Establishing a widely-noted reputation for customer service excellence under the leadership of Managing Director David Jeary, Lexus of Perth comprises a team of incredibly committed and loyal staff. The team share a passion for delivering highly-satisfying customer experiences that result in ‘customers for life’. During the 13 years that Lexus of Perth has been situated in

Osborne Park, David has worked to retain and grow his ‘family’ of staff, with more than half of the 40 staff being employed at the dealership for more than five years. From administration to finance, and vehicle servicing to sales, virtually all divisions have been recognised or awarded for their customer service standards and performance. It was only fitting that Lexus of Perth was awarded New Car Dealer of the Year 2019. The business is abundant with success stories. Timothy Low and Jason Lam are but two examples of this. Having begun their automotive journey as apprentice service technicians, the duo are now integral new car sales leaders within Lexus of Perth and a great symbol of the opportunities available to those within ‘the family’.

The calendar-defining Lexus Ball for Telethon has raised more than $1.7m over the years, demonstrating

the breadth of skills within the team and their generous spirit of philanthropy.

Lexus customer surveys validate the immense efforts that Lexus of Perth invest in staff training and development, with customer ratings surpassing the

high standards of Lexus Australia. The combination of an excellent staff culture, an exceptional product and a continuing focus on improving customer experiences make Lexus of Perth a very worthy recipient of this award.

2019 Pre-Apprentice of the Year Calen Duffy

A decision to enrol in an MTAWA/ AIT Certificate II in light vehicle servicing technology course has proven to be life-changing for 2019 Pre-Apprentice of the Year award winner, Calen Duffy.

The Year 12 Mercy College student wanted to develop skills he would be able to use regardless of his future career path, but his involvement in the course, along with work experience each Friday at Northlands Automotive in Balcatta, has ignited a passion for the automotive industry.

He is now hoping to turn this passion and drive into a future career, with a plan to start an automotive apprenticeship next year and a desire to eventually run his own workshop.

In the short-term, the course has given Calen skills to not only service and maintain his own vehicle, but also the cars of

family and friends. It also helped him pass the school’s Automotive Engineering and Technology course with an “A”, while the development of additional skills, such as effective teamwork, communication, cooperation and leadership have been a

further bonus.

To further his knowledge and to pass some of his skills on to others, he also helps out three days a week in the school’s metal work and automotive rooms, racking up an impressive 110 hours of volunteer work.

and jobseekers.

With more than 30 years of experience, Automotive Personnel combine industry expertise with an extensive database to promptly place staff within trade, non-trade, administrative and operational roles.

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Langham Auto Engineers

Langham Auto Engineers, a BOSCH-certified service centre in Welshpool, has been home to Phil Langham since he was an apprentice. He took over the running of the family business many years ago.

After 36 years in any business, you learn a lot about your trade, your customers and yourself. In the case of Phillip and Diane Langham, not only have they learned and mastered the art of operating a successful vehicle service centre, but they continue to instill it into the next generation.

Given Phil’s growth from apprentice to proprietor, he and Diane have been passionate about passing on their diverse knowledge and skill base to the future of our industry. It is simply staggering to consider that throughout their 36 years of operation, the Langham team have trained 40 apprentices. This tight-knit, family-owned and operated business is an example of a small group of people achieving phenomenal things together.

Thrilled: The Langham team couldn’t be happier!

2019 Apprentice of the Year

Coral Robins

apprenticeships and workshop manager opportunities, there is little that the team don’t offer by way of pathways for anyone who is willing to seize the opportunity.

The industry at large benefits a lot from people like Phil and Diane. For every fully-qualified technician required, someone must train them. Although a lot of businesses will benefit from the investments in training and personnel by businesses like Langham Auto Engineers, few will make the same investments.

Having been a finalist in the 2018 Apprentice of the Year category, there was no doubt that Coral Robins was going to make an impact in 2019. Being announced as the Apprentice of the Year 2019 is a fitting reward for her work ethic and the continued excellent application of her skills.

Whilst Coral doesn’t go out of her way to earn accolades, her attitude and aptitude is very much appreciated by Langham Auto Engineers, who are not only her host employer but also the Host Employer of the Year 2019 (see separate story).

eager attitude continued to grow in an environment that is supportive and friendly. For someone who loves a laugh as much as Coral, the family-owned Langham Auto Engineers is the ideal place to learn and develop her skills, whilst growing with the business. For business owner Philip Langham, having someone as dedicated to serving the needs of customers as much as him must be very fulfilling.

Their contribution to our industry was recognised with the award of Host Employer of the Year 2019. It is a significant achievement and what makes this award particularly remarkable is the fact that Langham Auto Engineers are the host employer of Coral Robins, the Apprentice of the Year 2019. Often it is the dream of a service technician to retire from the tools and oversee the business. In Phil’s case, a commitment to keeping his hands dirty, his staff trained and his customers happy is proof that you can continue to deliver fantastic service, even while working under the bonnet! Backed by the expertise of Diane, who assists with operations, the duo provide a perfect growth environment for their employees, including Coral Robins.

Not only have they assisted her in the journey from pre-apprentice to an award-winning third year apprentice, they have also ensured that Coral is skilled

in BOSCH’s suite of training and development services, assuring she is learning the absolute latest in servicing technologies from an OEM specialist group.

All four of the workshop employees participate in training and development, with a significant amount of expenditure committed annually to ensuring their growth. The numbers speak for themselves, with the extensive amounts invested in training resulting in countless award nominations and wins for the business and its employees.

Langham Auto Engineers have been loyal users of the MTA WA’s Group Training Organisation and is an advocate for its effectiveness. Their relationship with the GTO spans 30 years. More opportunities are provided to aspiring mechanics by Langham Auto Engineers in one year than may be provided by many businesses in decades. From work experience and pre-apprenticeships to

The industry at large could learn a lot of lessons from the Langham family – if nothing else, the inherent value of ‘paying it forward’, which they have done 40-fold.

Congratulations to the Langham Auto Engineers team, who truly earned this award. The Motor Trade Association of Western Australia thank you for your decades of service to the industry.

Progressing from her placement as a part-time preapprentice, Langham Auto Engineers took on Coral as a full-time apprentice through the MTA WA’s Group Training Organisation, which pairs the best in automotive apprentice talent with leading hosts and mentor businesses.

Dream matches don’t come much better, with a nurturing workplace ensuring that Coral’s

Being a BOSCH service centre, Langham Auto Engineers has proven to be a great learning environment, with Coral afforded the many benefits of the BOSCH training courses that few of her peers will have the privilege of completing so early in their careers. During her three years as an apprentice, even Coral is surprised at the amount of knowledge that she has been able to amass.

With Coral’s passion for

improvement and her desire to continually organise and refine workflows, she is driven to help others succeed. Langham Auto Engineers also host other ambitious young talent in work experience or preapprentice capacities and, naturally, Coral is only too happy to assist and support them in the same way that she has been supported. Business owners and apprentices alike understand that technology is driving unprecedented change and Coral is wholly committed to keeping pace with industry changes and trends in automotive repairs. Not content with leaving her giving attitude within the workplace, Coral is the type of person who will always assist those in need in the community, especially if they are having car trouble!

By embracing the three key tenants of learning, applying and growing, Coral is, and will continue to be, a leader in her field. Times and industries change, though work ethic has been universally acknowledged as the most time-tested

measure of a person’s success. By that measure alone, Coral is already a hugely successful automotive talent.

In Philip Langham’s own words, “From the minute Coral started her placement with us, I was immediately impressed by her dedication, work ethic and willingness to learn.”

He also noted that “Coral has a bright future and we look forward to continuing to watch Coral grow into not only a passionate and capable mechanic, but also an advocate for increasing female representation in the motor trade industry.”

The power of the Group Training Organisation to couple eager apprentices with the best of host employers could not be better represented than in this example. Group Training Managers Stephen Spini and Paul Harvey were humbled upon hearing Coral’s recommendation of the GTO and the suggestion that the apprenticeship program was “the best decision [she] has ever made”.

2019 Used Car Dealer of the Year

John Hughes Group

The John Hughes Group is arguably the most recognisable collective of used vehicle yards in WA.

Famously located “Just over the Causeway on Shepperton Road, Victoria Park”, the voice of John Hughes himself echoes within the ears of anyone who has tuned into television or radio over the decades.

This year marks 50 years of trading within Victoria Park for the John Hughes Group. The Town of Victoria

Park even recognised John Hughes with an induction into their inaugural ‘Town of Victoria Park Business Hall of Fame’.

Beyond their famed history, the John Hughes Group has continued to maintain and grow their promise of trading with “integrity” and a determination “to give our customers the very best of service”. This is underscored by the diverse collections of vehicles. With an

This year marks 50 years of trading within Victoria Park for the John Hughes Group.

economical range of vehicles within the Auto Warehouse, a commercial vehicle yard with hundreds of vehicles at any given time, a prestige used yard and every vehicle in between, the footprint of the group facilitates the stocking of vehicles for buyers at all price points.

Matching their products with comprehensive customer service and after sales care, the group have a suite of services for all motorists, including service centres and mobile service vehicles, tyres, parts, panel and paint, batteries, finance, a trim shop, warranty centre, autoglass and a buying department.

This depth of services requires expert staff, who can deliver the type of experiences that John Hughes himself would. The John Hughes Group’s commitment to staff training, scheduled sales and performance meetings and mentorship are the trademarks that have resulted in many awards for their customer service standards.

It is not uncommon for cadet sales staff to escalate

to managerial and leadership roles within a matter of years, not decades.

The result of these famous business practices are the thousands of testimonials from customers, which are often published within newspaper advertisements for all to view. Surveys and follow up calls are reviewed at the highest levels to ensure the continued satisfaction of purchasers. Vehicles in major accidents or those with questionable histories don’t make it to the forecourt of the John Hughes Group. Nor do egos, with staff required to embrace the time-proven values of the business. John Hughes himself, who is regularly on the sales ‘frontline’, leads by example and is never far away to demonstrate the customer service standards that buyers love and have come to expect.

These philosophies and the commitment to delivering upon them has made the John Hughes Group “your car buying destination”. Further to this, it has established the group as a deserved winner of the Used Car Dealer of the Year 2019.

2019 Commercial Vehicle Centre of the Year

Catalano Truck & Equipment

It has often been said that Australia’s early economic success “rode on the sheep’s back”. It is now fair to say that, in 2019, Australia is driven by the logistics sector. From quiet suburban streets to our major highways, commercial vehicles, particularly trucks, are keeping Australia’s economy moving every hour of the day. From weekly home shopping deliveries to council maintenance, infrastructure projects and the exponential growth of eCommerce deliveries, commercial vehicles are a major component of our lives.

When Daniel Catalano started Catalano Truck & Equipment Sales in 2009, it was a truck sales yard in a back street in Midvale. Over the course of a decade, this family-operated business has grown to cater for the many needs of the commercial vehicle sector. Knowing that personnel are as important as processes, Catalano Truck & Equipment has appointed experts in each department to ensure that client needs are always met with experienced and friendly support.

Now located in Kenwick on 2.7 acres, Catalano Truck & Equipment is a full-service commercial vehicle precinct. Offering everything from fabrication services through to state-wide support

and a dedicated finance division, the business has grown without leaving its personalised service values behind. Daniel actively supports his team and deals with customers directly, despite his busy schedule.

Like many other winners at the Automotive Excellence Awards, Catalano Truck & Equipment has a focus on staff training. Having continued his education by attaining a Diploma in Finance, Daniel also assisted employees Chloe and Sarah to attain Cert IV’s in Finance. The recent addition of a heavy diesel apprentice mechanic also signals the business’ commitment to training and growth.

Taking account of every component of truck ownership, from purchasing and financing through to servicing and repairs, Catalano Truck & Equipment pride themselves on maintaining the same standards of customer service at all stages of the ownership lifecycle. Even

Taking account of every component of truck ownership, from purchasing and financing through to servicing and repairs, Catalano Truck & Equipment pride themselves on maintaining the same standards of customer service at all stages of the ownership lifecycle.

businesses with fleets of trucks are treated as individuals and not as numbers.

The sustained growth of the business has clearly been a result of their absolute dedication to providing

quality products and services. By engaging in community, environmental and industry initiatives, Daniel and the Catalano team have proven to be proud and worthy recipients of the Commercial Vehicle Centre of the Year 2019 award.

2019 Motorcycle Dealership of the Year

Perth Harley-Davidson

American by Birth. Rebel by Choice™ Like a call to arms for freedom seekers, the famed Harley-Davidson tagline positions the brand squarely in the hearts and minds of rebellious counter-culture enthusiasts. But after celebrating their 115th birthday last year, even Harley-Davidson USA acknowledged that their reach now extends far beyond the traditional purist market for which they are synonymous.

With a LAMS-compliant model and a selection of ever progressive designs, combined with their cult classics, Harley-Davidson attracts a new generation of lovers, ensuring the legacy of the brand into the future. Competition within the motorcycle sector, particularly in Perth, is fierce but ever-respectful. As such, Perth Harley-Davidson should be immensely proud of their achievement of being awarded the Motorcycle Dealership of the Year 2019. No category had a tighter tally after the judges reviewed the respective nominations. This is not only an enormous compliment for the Perth Harley-Davidson team, but a compliment to all finalists within the category.

Beyond a beloved brand image and product line, what gave Perth Harley-Davidson the edge? Whilst there was no single factor, some impressive accomplishments assisted in elevating Perth Harley-Davidson into the winning position. All staff are trained through the Harley-Davidson University training program, ensuring consistently high product knowledge and business development skills. Further to this, the independentlyowned dealership was the not only highest trading Harley-Davidson dealer in WA for 2018, but throughout Australia and Asia-Pacific. In addition to this impressive metric, they are also within the top 10 parts and accessory dealers in the world.

While sales stats are important, the spirit of the awards is also weighted heavily toward business practices. The motto “once a customer, always a customer” permeates the practices within this popular Cannington-based business. Operating procedures are based on customer feedback and needs, not just on a marketing department’s vision. An improvement from a 4-star Facebook rating to

4.8 stars between 2017-2018, a 20 per cent increase in customer satisfaction surveys and an average 90 per cent customer satisfaction rating in 2019 confirms the results of their improvement campaign.

One-third of all staff at Perth-Harley Davidson are female and their roles extend far beyond the old stereotype of ‘meeting and greeting’ customers. In what’s often perceived as a maledominated sector, this is a commendable achievement for the dedicated team. Twelve per cent of PerthHarley Davidson buyers are women, which represents a 71% year-on-year increase from 2017. This demonstrates the

importance of having knowledgeable staff from all walks of life and whilst there are women-only events to introduce females to the brand, the goal is to create a community. The pink-ribbon ride raises funds for the National Breast Cancer Association and is attended by men and women alike. After all, every Harley-Davidson buyer has a common goal; escapism.

Not only has the Harley-Davidson brand evolved with the times, but Perth Harley-Davidson is also riding fearlessly into the future with the same spirit that has seen the global brand maintain its iconic status over 115 years.

2019 Body Repairer of the Year Lombardi Bros

When it comes to having an exotic Ferrari, Jaguar or Aston Martin repaired, the word “trust” is not going to be far from a client’s thoughts. “It all begins with trust” is Lombardi Bros’ customer service motto and it is the foundation brothers John and Fred Lombardi have built their business on since humble beginnings in 1972.

As the accredited repairer for the Barbagallo Group and the authorised repairer of some of the world’s most luxurious brands, including Ferrari, Volvo, Land Rover and soon to be Maserati and Lamborghini, Lombardi Bros send staff members all over the world to learn the latest technologies. Investing heavily in the latest tools and equipment and continually expanding their workshops to cater for the ever changing requirements of the industry ensures the highest possible quality of repairs.

A great example of this is establishing a completely

separate division and building for aluminium repairs, the first Western Australian repairer to do so.

A second aluminium division in their new prestige facility will make Lombardi Bros the largest aluminium repairer in WA and compliments their ability to repair vehicles constructed using lightweight materials such as carbon fibre and fibreglass.

And what better way to promote your business than by consistently displaying the quality of your work to customers and going above and beyond expectations.

Removing scratches and dents on cars without

renumeration from insurance is just part of the service.

A desire to be the “best in their field” applies to all work, with both prestige and “everyday” vehicles receiving only the highest quality, manufacturer approved paint products.

As well as keeping customers happy, audits by affiliated manufacturers have resulted in high praise for the working environment, including a Ferrari representative from Italy who commented “Lombardi Bros is one of the most well organized and clean shops I have seen.”

It is this dedication to excellence that resulted in Lombardi Bros being awarded 2019 Body Repairer of the Year.

With one of the largest panel and paint shops in Australia, a new additional prestige facility just completed, a dedicated apprenticeship program for young people and a culture of constantly ensuring employees are up-to-date with the latest advances and techniques in the automotive industry, Lombardi Bros continues its tradition of unsurpassed quality and outstanding attention to detail.

AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2019 / MOTOR

2019 Automotive Repairer of the Year RAC Auto Services

When a group of motoring enthusiasts formed the Automobile Club of Western Australia in 1905 to support the interests of car owners, their first task was to create road maps and signage to make WA safer.

Western Australians will be very familiar with the yellow RAC Road Patrol vans, as well as the RAC’s range of services, including insurance, holiday parks, the RAC rescue helicopters and their ongoing advocacy for improved road safety. However, you might not be aware that the RAC Auto Services business is actually very young in comparison to the original businesses.

The first RAC Auto Service centre in Balcatta opened in 2004 as a reaction to requests from members who wanted a trusted business to service and repair their vehicles. A

commitment to providing an exceptional service to members and keeping them safe on the road is at the heart of everything the RAC does and the service centres are no different.

The RAC Auto Services network has been a resounding success and has now grown to nine centres in metropolitan Perth, from Joondalup in the north to Mandurah in the south and in 2019 a further milestone was reached with the launch of a third mobile mechanic van.

All automotive repairs are handled by the centres, from logbook services through to air conditioning servicing and engine overhauls.

Aligning with their roadside patrol and towing network, member’s cars are towed to the nearest RAC Auto Service Centre for a free 30 minute

fault diagnosis – all part of the service.

With over 50,000 WA motorists now trusting their servicing and repair needs to RAC Auto Services, the business has recently

2019 Recreational Vehicle Business Of The Year

Caravan King

Good old fashioned customer service has been rebranded “the Disney Promise” by a young Mandurah-based caravan repair, sales and servicing business. And it’s obviously resonating with their loyal customer base with Caravan King going from strength to strength in just four short years.

instigated a number of innovations including the development of the “Repair Order Race Track” to improve workflow and revamped member lounges where owners can comfortably wait whilst their car is being serviced.

The future is a constantly changing beast and RAC Auto Services have attempted to keep ahead of the curve, recently running a session with a cross section of employees to imagine the “Workshop of the Future”. Tasked to think about technology, the consumer, changing market and social trends and how automotive services need to evolve, some of the resulting ideas are being trialled across the network of Auto Service Centres.

With this “looking forward” approach, guaranteed quality, ongoing professional development for technicians, a personalised approach to their extensive apprenticeship program and an unwavering commitment to exceptional and consistent customer service, RAC Auto Services a worthy recipient of the 2019 Automotive Repairer of the Year award.

This is an extraordinary success story. Starting in November 2015 with a single trailer and a vision to create Mandurah’s leading mobile caravan repair business, owners Aleisha Kaeding and Corey Bryant have subsequently expanded the business into caravan sales, insurance repairs and, most recently, a one-stop retail caravan parts and accessories shop.

And the secret to their success? A genuine love of the caravanning industry and the great outdoors and that “Disney Promise”, whereby customers enjoy

a consistently exceptional experience over and above expectations. Whether selling or purchasing a preloved van, commissioning repair or installation work or just buying a small accessory, their customer first approach is further enhanced with follow-up communication and a personalised “thank you for business” gift in the mail.

Offering a comprehensive mobile and workshop service to all areas of the Mandurah and Peel Region, they specialise in the service and repair of all brands of caravans, trailers, motor homes, food vans and horse floats. If it can be towed, it is within their scope of work!

All work is carried out and supervised by professional, qualified and licensed technicians and the quality workmanship is guaranteed. Serious about the safety of customer’s caravans and a genuine desire for travellers

to enjoy trouble-free and exceptional holidays, a dedicated team member extensively educates owners at handover.

More than 3000 very happy caravanning customers over the past four years, and hundreds of postcards from holidaying travellers, are testament to their approach. No strangers to accolades for their work from customers either via telephone, email or on their Facebook page, Caravan King was awarded the “People’s Choice Award”

in 2017 at the annual Peel Business Awards. Caravan King strives to not only be industry leading, but to take customer service practices to new levels. Staying up-to datewith the latest products, equipment and techniques – including investing in specialized tooling and constantly upskilling staff members – sets Caravan King apart and makes this family run business a very worthy recipient of the 2019 Recreational Vehicle Business Of The Year Award.

2019 Regional Business of the Year

The

Caravan Doctor

When, in 2007, Linda and Simon Bird wanted to leave their existing careers to purchase a Busselton caravan repair business in 2007 that would accommodate their shared pursuits, the decision was accompanied with the stress and pressures all business operators face when undertaking a new venture. Even family members, with the couple’s best interests at heart, had posed the question “don’t people fix their own caravans?”.

Undeterred by the careful, risk-averse advice of their peers, they persevered. Simon oversaw the workshop initially, with Linda managing the ‘front of house’ matters. They backed their decision to help their family progress, though major milestones, including hiring their first employee, still evoked sensations of fear.

The courage that saw them maintain their momentum, in the face of fear, has facilitated their growth as an employer of seven fulltime, two part-time and one casual staff member. More than a repair and spare parts workshop, they have developed an identity as a recognised, respected and

dependable service provider within the Busselton community and beyond.

In fact, their services are utilised by caravan owners across the State, and even interstate.

Having worked hard to establish their reputation for quality and honesty, services valued by clients include general servicing, insurance and warranty repairs, modifications, enhancements, pre-purchase checks, used caravan sales and secure caravan storage.

When you’re on a winning streak, business owners often become complacent and fail to seek out external advice.

With customer satisfaction at the heart of The Caravan Doctor’s business model, Linda and Simon engaged the services of Wayne Hitchens of iBamcy. Somewhat of a ‘business whisperer’, Wayne and his team implemented processes and structures that improved the workflow, cashflow and efficiency of the operation to allow The Caravan Doctor to best serve its comprehensive customer base and clearly define and target their market.

From inventory management to internal IT

upgrades and staff training, seeking external counsel paid off for the team. By having tangible targets and mitigating the common cashflow risks that small to medium businesses face, the team were able to deliver greater profits even when market conditions had led to lower overall income.

Overall, The Caravan Doctor has been recognised for its initiatives and standards of customer service. With the largest range of parts outside of the metropolitan area, they are colloquially referred to as the ‘Bunnings of caravanning’.

Comprehensively awarded, their accolades include the 2018 South West Small Business Award for Construction, Mining and Manufacturing, the 2018 Busselton Chamber of Commerce Award for businesses with 5-10 employees and the Belmont and Western Australia Small Business Awards 2018 Customer Service Award.

When you reflect upon the businesses that compete in these categories, it’s incredible that the strength,

2019 Innovative Business of the Year

Allied Mobility Australia

A specialist company dedicated to providing a safe, ‘family-style’ transport solution for people who need to travel in their wheelchair, is providing a new level of freedom and comfort to Australians with reduced mobility.

Allied Mobility Australia not only saw a gap in the Australian market, but, more importantly, an opportunity to bring a solution to the mobility needs of wheelchairbound people.

in the Australian market, vehicles are delivered ‘ready to go’ in a range of specifications and colours, or can be custom ordered.

Vehicles sold cleverly combine full original seating with the ability to create wheelchair space quickly and easily. Once inside, the wheelchair is secured by high-quality front and rear wheelchair restraints, while lap and diagonal seat belts ensure optimum security.

passion and commitment of The Caravan Doctor have been so widely recognised. Whether you’re on the side of the road in need of emergency repair advice or you make use of their drive-thru service yard with enough parts and accessories to ignite your adventurous spirit, The Caravan Doctor have given many customers the gift of freedom and adventure. Although work isn’t considered freedom for all, the smiles and laughter that fill the workshop suggest that employees enjoy the freedom of working on products that they are truly passionate about. The feedback that they receive on their social media and survey platforms validate their position as a paradise destination for current and future caravan adventurers.

A worthy winner as Regional Business of the Year at the Automotive Excellence Awards, Linda and Simon are proud and even more determined to continue to provide leading servicing and sales services for the caravan industry.

Working closely with leading manufacturers including Peugeot, Ford and Volkswagen, Allied’s engineering design team is continually looking for new and innovative ways to make wheelchair cars as accessible, comfortable, safe and userfriendly as possible. They have taken ‘best practice’ from Europe and applied this to the Australian market, supplying purpose built, European luxury family-style vehicles that offer ultra-modern comfort and style and safe, secure and user-friendly wheelchair travel.

Moving away from the expensive ‘purchase and then modify’ solution common

A level-floor area for the wheelchair user gives a better eyeline view, making the journey much more enjoyable.

The vehicles are sourced from Allied’s specialist UK production facility in Glasgow, taking advantage of large production volumes to deliver top-quality wheelchair cars at highly competitive prices and eliminating long wait times.

Unique to Allied Mobility, the EasyGlide access wheelchair ramp that simply pulls out from the vehicle floor to create a low-angle pathway into the car, is a great example of the forward thinking that led to Allied Mobility Australia being awarded 2019 Innovative Business of the Year.

Allied’s engineering design team is continually looking for new and innovative ways to make wheelchair cars as accessible, comfortable, safe and user-friendly as possible.

Want more technical info?

MTA WA members can access this valuable service at the exclusive member rate of $960 (+GST) a year or $80 (+GST) a month.

tech-centre

Jeep Grand Cherokee

For more information on OurAuto services, contact Liam Sheehy on 0424 840 780 or lsheehy@ourauto.com.au

Filter Replacement

1. Raise vehicle on hoist.

2. Remove the transmission skid plate.

3. Place a suitable container under the filter assembly and loosen drain plug with a Phillips head screwdriver.

4. Tighten the drain plug after the fuel has finished draining.

5. Remove one of the fuel filters from the housing using a 27mm socket.

6. Remove the filter element and O-ring from the cover.

7. Install a new O-ring seal onto the cover.

8. Lubricate the new seal on the cover and the seal on the filter with fresh clean diesel fuel.

9. Install new filter onto cover.

10. Install filter assembly back into housing and torque to 20Nm.

11. Repeat process with second filter.

12. Reinstall transmission skid plate.

Air Bleeding

The bleed procedure involves cycling the ignition ON twice for 30 seconds, which should bleed all the air from the fuel filters and lines.

1. Press the Start/Stop button twice, without touching the brake pedal.

2. Allow pump to run for around 30 seconds.

3. Press button again to turn ignition OFF.

4. Press button again twice, without touching the brake pedal, to turn the ignition on again.

5. Wait for 30 seconds for the pump to finish running.

6. Press button to turn the ignition OFF.

7. Press brake pedal and press the Start/Stop button to start engine.

DPF Light Common Fault Subaru

Outback & Forester

2.0L Diesel 2009 - 2016

Michael Schifferle let us know about a common issue that is causing DPF problems on the Subaru diesel.

The Subaru EE20 turbo diesel includes a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) that operates similarly to other comparable vehicles. (For more information about DPF operation and service see the April 2015 issue of Tech Talk.) It requires regular longer drives for the DPF to regenerate and needs to have the oil dilution ratio reset whenever the oil is changed. The intake hose is prone to splitting underneath where it is hard to see, and is therefore easily overlooked. The hose is between the intercooler and the throttle body. When the hose splits, it allows intake air to escape, especially when under boost. This results in excess fuel entering the engine. In turn the excess fuel clogs the DPF

and dilutes the engine oil. The DPF can clog up very quickly even after carrying out a forced regeneration because of the excess fuel.

While it is easy enough to check, the split is not readily seen unless you are looking for it. The first obvious sign is an oily stain around the hose.

After you replace the hose (Subaru part number 21869AA130) you must carry out a forced DPF regeneration, change the engine oil and then reset the oil dilution ratio with a suitable can tool.

DPF Light Strategy

On - Drive vehicle above 60kmh and between 1800 & 2500rpm for at least 15 minutes.

Flashing - Requires forced regeneration, which is best initiated with a suitable scan tool.

This common fault is easily overlooked and causes the DPF to clog up very quickly.

We

like to thank

EMPLOYER AND IR UPDATE

Decision of Interest

Alastair Enkel v WE R Finance Pty Ltd – 2019 WAIRC 00284

Mr Enkel, was engaged as a financial and insurance consultant. He lodged a claim for wages, overtime, accrued annual leave, leave loading and superannuation under the provisions of the Banking, Finance and Insurance Award 2010.

The business provided labour on a hire basis to car dealerships to process finance and insurance contracts. The Applicant, Mr Enkel, would complete documents on behalf of car dealerships and vehicle purchasers and submit to a finance or insurance provider.

The magistrate, in this case, determined the Applicant was covered by the Banking, Finance and Insurance Award 2010 and awarded $14,000 to the Applicant for underpayment of wages, overtime and leave payments.

In addition to this, the business will also be fined for penalties at a later day for failing to:

• provide copies of the Award or the NES; or

• no documents such as records or pay slips specified his employment as permanent, temporary or casual.

MTAWA Advice to members

1. If you engage a person to sell insurance and/or finance from within your business ensure the sales person is engaged under the Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Services and Retail Award 2010. If you wish to enter into a contractor relationship with a finance and/or insurance person, this could be extremely risky based upon the recent decision. You should contact MTAWA for further advice.

2. Ensure your business has a copy of the Award and NES on your notice board in the lunch room.

3. Make sure the words permanent, temporary or casual appear on an employment record such as a pay slip.

4. For a copy of the decision go the Western Australian Industrial Magistrates Court. The citation number is 2019 WAIRC 00284.

How do you know if a medical certificate is a valid one?

An employer who is not convinced of the authenticity of a medical certificate provided by an employee after an absence of work due to illness and injury, has the ability to obtain further information about that certificate. Employers should act cautiously in disputing a medical certificate, and should only do so where there are genuine and well-founded concerns about the validity of the medical certificate, not just a suspicion. Examples of objective evidence that may raise more than suspicion may be:

• it looks photocopied or Photoshopped;

• there appears to be handmade alterations to it;

• it does not provide the details of the medical centre;

• it does not provide details of the doctor or their provider number.

An employer can make a call to the medical centre from which the medical certificate was obtained to check whether the employee did in fact attend on the day which is stated on the proffered certificate Employers can also check to ensure the doctor who has issued the medical certificate is a registered health practitioner. Further information can be found on the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency’s website. Where an employer has confirmed the employee’s attendance with the doctor who has issued the medical certificate, the employer cannot insist that the employee provide more information about the medical condition. Their doctor is only legally required to state that the

employee was unfit to attend work.

It is difficult to challenge a valid doctor’s certificate unless the employer has further evidence that would suggest the employee was not actually ill or injured during the time which the medical certificate covers.

If you have found information from the medical centre that the worker did not attend on the day stated in the medical certificate, or they confirm that the medical certificate is not consistent with the kind they issue to patients, the employer should follow their disciplinary and misconduct processes to ask the employee to explain their conduct, and decide on the course of action to take as a result.

Please contact MTAWA for assistance before having this discussion with the worker.

Removal of immobiliser declaration requirement

Cars and Tax

(From the ATO)

From 1 July 2019 the following car threshold amounts apply:

Income tax

There’s an upper limit on the cost you use to work out the depreciation for the business use of your car or station wagon (including four-wheel drives). You use the car limit that applies to the year you first use or lease the car.

The car limit for 2019–20 is $57,581.

Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Generally, if you purchase a car and the price is more than the car limit, the maximum amount of GST credit you can claim is one-eleventh of the car limit amount.

You can’t claim a GST credit for any luxury car tax you pay when you purchase a luxury car, regardless of how much you use the car in carrying on your business.

Luxury Car Tax

From 1 July 2019 the tax threshold for luxury cars increased to $67,525. The threshold for fuel efficient luxury cars for the 2019–20 financial year remains at $75,526.

In general, the value of a car includes the value of any parts, accessories or attachments supplied or imported at the same time as the car.

Are you an employer with a question regarding Employees or Industrial Relations issues? Contact Ron Ballucci on 08 9233 9800 or ron.ballucci@mtawa.com.au

The Department of Transport (DoT) has improved the process when applying for the grant or transfer of a motor vehicle licence, removing the requirement to declare in writing whether the vehicle has an immobiliser fitted.

Steve Mitchinson, General Manager of Driver and Vehicle Services at DoT, said the compulsory vehicle engine immobiliser scheme meant applicants for the grant or transfer of a vehicle licence were required to declare in writing whether the vehicle is fitted with an immobiliser. Also, the Australian Design Rules require all manufacturers to fit engine immobilisers to passenger cars supplied to the Australian market.

“Because of this, 97 per cent of eligible vehicles are now fitted

with an immobiliser – meaning the time is right to remove the declaration requirement,” Mr Mitchinson said.

This will streamline the vehicle transfer process and reduce the regulatory burden without increasing the theft risk of vehicles.

“Although we have removed the requirement to declare in writing that an immobiliser has been fitted, it remains compulsory for an immobiliser to be fitted to all passenger cars supplied to the Australian market,” Mr Mitchinson said. Current exemptions from the fitment of immobiliser will remain in place.

For further information on the vehicle immobiliser requirement please visit DoT’s website.

With Commissioner for Consumer Protection

Lanie Chopping

No ambiguity in

DRIVE AWAY, NO MORE TO PAY

The motor vehicle industry’s old catchphrase of ‘drive away, no more to pay’ should mean just that.

The single price for any vehicle, from hatchbacks or SUVs to towed caravans or self-powered motor homes, is calculated by adding up each of the price components that make up the price representation.

The law specifies the components that a motor vehicle dealer is required to include. Most commonly these are:

• vehicle purchase price

• stamp duty

• registration and licence fee

• dealer delivery fee.

The sum of these component prices must be given in any advertising as a single figure that is at least as prominent as any component or partial price. This may also vary depending on whether you are

Are your details up to date?

The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (the Department) has recently written to industry participants who hold a licence or registration issued by the Commissioner for Consumer Protection to advise that courtesy renewal reminder notices will now only be sent electronically.

To continue to receive courtesy renewal reminder notices, all licensees must keep their mobile number and email address up to date with the Department. It is recommended that you register a personal email address rather than a work email address so that if you change jobs the Department can still contact you with important information.

Employers are asked to encourage their staff to keep their mobile telephone and personal email details up to date with the Department to ensure they receive renewal reminders.

It is imperative that licence renewal applications are submitted with the required information. Incomplete applications will be returned to the

applicant. Please make sure that you complete your application in full, and if it is a renewal, ensure that the complete application is submitted in plenty of time to avoid your licence expiring or incurring additional late fees.

The licensing system is designed to ensure that only fit and proper people work in the industry, maintaining standards and protecting consumers. Unlicensed motor vehicle dealing and repairing cannot and will not be ignored.

While reminders regarding license renewals are sent by Consumer Protection, the onus is on the licensee to ensure the licence does not expire.

Industry members can check on their licence on the Consumer Protection website: www.commerce.wa.gov.au/cp/ licencesearch or by calling 1300 30 40 64.

Licensees can keep their contact details up to date by completing this online form: www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/LSupdate or by emailing cplicensing@DMIRS.wa.gov.au.

In all instances an advertisement should be clear and there should not be any potential to mislead the purchaser or misrepresent the vehicle in any way.

News from the Courts

Unlicensed car dealer fined $5,000

I’m pleased to report that the hard work and dedication of our team recently resulted in a successful prosecution outcome.

A Perth man was fined $5,000 and ordered to pay costs of $525.50 by the Perth Magistrates Court for selling cars without a motor vehicle dealer’s licence in a case brought against him by Consumer Protection.

During a hearing on 3 May 2019, Rainer Puhmas pleaded guilty by letter to buying 17 cars and selling 16 of them between March 2017 and December 2018 without a licence, in breach of the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act 1973.

Unlicensed car dealing robs legitimate licensed dealers of valuable business, creates an uneven playing field in the marketplace and undermines the integrity of the motor vehicle industry in WA.

advertising a new or used vehicle.

The single price should relate to the featured model of the vehicle. We no longer see the bad old days of a ‘cab chassis’ vehicle advertised as ‘Drive away, no more to pay’, when the price did not include the price of the tray or body.

If you are advertising a new vehicle and the single price includes less than 12 months registration, the advertisement should tell your potential customers. For example, if the vehicle is registered for three months, the advertisement should state this, so the consumer is fully aware that they will need to pay licensing fees in three months. You could also inform consumers that licensing fees are listed on the Department of Transport website at: http://www.transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/ licensing.asp.

It is common practice for the transfer

fee and stamp duty on used vehicle sales to be paid by the purchaser, and this is not usually included in the advertised sale price. However, if you advertise a used vehicle as ‘Drive away, no more to pay’, then the advertised price must include the cost of both the transfer fee and stamp duty, along with any other fee that may be applicable (for example, the luxury goods tax).

In all instances an advertisement should be clear and there should not be any potential to mislead the purchaser or misrepresent the vehicle in any way.

The Australian Consumer Law (ACL) prohibits misleading and deceptive conduct, whether it actually misleads or is likely to mislead. Under the ACL it is

irrelevant whether you intended to do this or not; the provision can be breached by both deliberate and inadvertent conduct.

Whether you are advertising a new or used vehicle, it is important that the overall impression created by your advertisement is an accurate one. This includes any representations, written or pictorial, about the price, model, features, and other essential information.

Simple and accurate advertising information is vital. After all is said and done, you are in this business to sell product, develop your market and benefit from referral and repeat business. Customers who feel misled are not likely to come back.

Please note: this article is designed to give you a simple guide in plain language. It is not legal advice. For legal advice you should consult a properly qualified legal practitioner.

It can also put consumers as risk on the roads. Unlicensed motor vehicle dealers often deny consumers the right to a remedy if there is a problem with the purchase because they’re operating outside the law and don’t comply with warranty obligations.

We encourage all members of the industry and community to be alert to any unlicensed motor vehicle dealing activity and report it to us immediately so we can take action. Unlicensed dealers can be reported by emailing consumer@dmirs. wa.gov.au or by calling 1300 30 40 54.

You can also obtain further guidance by contacting Consumer Protection’s Automotive, Marine and Trading Hours Branch on 6251 1404 or via email: automotive@commerce. wa.gov.au.

NEW PRODUCTS / MOTOR

John Nossiter

IF I COULD OWN ANY CAR...

‘‘It would have to be a V8 Monaro in canary yellow.

I was with Holden for 25 years, and I actually had the luxury of driving one for a couple of weeks.

That would have to be maybe 12 years ago. I think it was the VZ – it was the last of the Monaros they made.

I’ve got a diecast model of exactly the same car in my office.

I’ve never had a car that’s attracted that much attention from anyone –from ages 8 years to 80 years. People were coming up in the car park at the shopping centre, saying ‘oh that is such a beautiful car’.

I’ve driven some nice cars – I’ve driven Ferraris, Porsches, all of those sort of things – but people of all ages were turning their heads and looking at this car.

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I enjoyed driving the Monaro more than I’d ever enjoyed driving any car. It felt good. It was powerful, it had a nice note to the car. It was back before they were too bothered about the exhausts, and it still had the

Dealer Principal with City Subaru, Victoria Park

Holden Monaro (in canary yellow)

note The Monaro, it set itself apart from most of the

other stuff on the road. It just had this unique look. It drove nice, it looked nice, it sounded good, it was a twodoor. It brought together everything about cars that I enjoy, and then it excited other people.

After so long in this industry, many of the cars you get in are just a car to you but I see that and I get excited; I get pumped. It’s just nice to drive a car that’s got some oomph in it.

There’s no substitute for cubic centimetres I reckon. There’s only two things that come in 2 litres, and that’s milk and orange juice. Give me a 6L V8 any day.

People in the car trade are passionate car people –you wouldn’t be in it unless you loved cars. It doesn’t matter what you’re selling, the fact you have a shine for a particular car doesn’t take away from what you think about the cars you sell.

Cars today to drive are just amazing, they’re safe and so much cheaper than what they were, but there’s always going to be a place for people who want a car that just makes them feel good and ignites that passion.

For me that’s the Monaro.

Commodore Concept Coupe to Monaro

Originally conceived as a styling exercise only in the late 90s, the Commodore Concept Coupe was first shown at the 1998 Sydney Motor Show.

Due the its “star of the show” status, Holden decided to put the car into production and resurrectted the name Monaro, last seen in showrooms in 1977 as the HX Monaro GTS sedan.

The first cars hit the roads in 2001, with a total of 55,000 built up until production ceased in 2005.

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2/182 Abernethy Rd, Belmont 08 9277 7036

70 Discovery Dr, Bibra Lake 08 9418 2627

1/86 Catalano Circuit, Canning Vale 08 9350 0200

5/24 Mercer Ln, Joondalup 08 9400 8600

1/673 Marshall Rd, Malaga 08 9248 5661

46 Reserve Dr, Mandurah 08 9584 3400

3/3 Stanhope Gardens, Midvale 08 9374 2700

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