MTA WA MOTOR March 2019

Motor triMMer turns 50 iconic italian in Balcatta

ForMer apprentice turns eMployer reFurBisHeD WorKsHop BriGHtens pertH street

Business support every step of the way.

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Business Loans and Asset Finance

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To find out how CommBank can help you do business your way, contact MTA WA on (08) 9233 9800 or email enquiries@mtawa.com.au and they’ll put you in touch with a CommBank Business Banking Specialist

DoN’t ForGEt to VotE

t HIS FEDE r AL ELEC t I o N m Att E r S

With MTA WA CEO Stephen moir

In May 2019, Australia will face a Federal election. This will arguably be one of the most significant elections in recent times, if for no other reason than it will hopefully mark the end of a very poor period in Federal politics that has plagued Australia since the election of Kevin Rudd in 2007 and which has seen six Prime Ministerial changes since that time.

The cost of this political uncertainty has been enormous, not only economically but also in the fact that too many of our elected Federal representatives are far too focused on political gamesmanship instead of providing a solid and sound government that delivers confidence for both the business and broader community. We can only hope both the Liberal and Labor parties have learnt from the past decade and commit to providing a strong government for the long term post-election.

To that end, MTA WA has made strong representations to both major political parties, calling on them to introduce fixed-term elections on a four-year basis. We have also suggested

that the leader who is elected as Prime Minister remains for the entirety of their term, pending incapacity or other extenuating circumstances that would deem their appointment unsustainable.

Western Australia is the beneficiary of fixed terms of four years for government and this approach provides for a far greater degree of certainty in terms of how a government operates and, more importantly, how it goes about policy setting in general.

Consistency in Ministerial portfolio allocation is also critical for continuity and consistency of government and WA Premier Mark McGowan has set a good precedent in his first term in only making minimal changes to Ministerial portfolio allocations.

This has allowed State Ministers to become much more familiar with their Departments and develop a far greater level of understanding about their areas of responsibility. It also allows industry associations, such as MTA WA, to be able to develop good levels of communication and access to Ministers, which directly benefits members.

Substantial industry

The automotive industry in Australia accounts for 2.2 per cent of GDP ($37.1 billion) and employs 379,365 people nationally, making it one of the most substantial and important industries to the Australian economy. Simply put, without an automotive industry, Australia stops.

Most automotive businesses are comprised of

small and family-owned enterprises that require sound policies and meaningful reform to allow them to grow and employ. Rising energy costs, skills shortages, onerous red tape, over-taxation and outdated workplace regulations are just some issues working against a business’ competitiveness and productivity.

Significantly, neither Labor nor the Liberals have shown any significant intent to introduce policies that will assist small business to grow. There has been no movement on industrial relations nor any significant shift in taxation that would indicate either party has a strong commitment to working with and growing the business sector.

MTA WA, along with our national body the MTAA, is calling on both the major parties to commit to serious policy reform across a range of areas to ensure the automotive industry is able to exist well into the future. Specifically, we want action on the following key issues for the automotive industry.

1 Introduction of a mandated scheme for car manufacturers to share technical information with independent repairers on commercially fair and reasonable terms.

Automotive service and repair professionals require access to up-todate manufacturer service and repair information and software programming downloads. This ensures vehicles are repaired safely and in accordance with the prescribed manufacturer’s procedures.

MTA WA and MTAA strongly support the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission’s (ACCC) recommendation for a mandated scheme, which allows for car manufacturers to share technical information with independent repairers on commercially fair and reasonable terms.

2 Introduction of an automotive specific Franchise Code of Conduct.

Motor Trade Associations have long called for the immediate development and implementation of a specific mandatory industry franchise code for the automotive industry.

Automotive franchise dealers often report unfair and anti-competitive commercial behaviour by franchisors against smaller independent operators and franchisees. Examples of unfair practices include the drafting of anticompetitive business practices within franchise agreements, often with blatant disregard for the provisions contained in the Franchise Code of Conduct.

Automotive specific franchise businesses also differ substantially from other types of franchises. New car and motorcycle dealerships, automotive repairers, fuel retailers and car rental franchises typically require large capital outlay and infrastructure set up costs, which increases the financial risk taken on by the business. This risk is heightened when termination notice can be as little as three months and multi-brand sharing of the facility is forbidden. Specific performance, extension and termination clauses for automotive retail are urgently required. The introduction of such an automotive specific Franchise Code of Conduct would allow for greater business certainty,

reduced risk and improved investment into franchises by the franchisee.

3 Government to introduce a mandated Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct. Ongoing disputes between vehicle insurers and vehicle body repairers demonstrate the limitations of the current voluntary Motor Vehicle Insurance and Repair Industry Code of Conduct. The lack of consistency in signatories’ conduct, minimum Code definitions and confusing and ambiguous clauses all contribute to significant costs to small businesses, especially regarding dispute resolution between repair businesses and insurers.

The non-regulatory nature of the Code means the purpose, principles and intent of the Code often stand in contrast to the direction and sustainability of vehicle body repair businesses.

The automotive industry supports effective regulation that fairly protects consumers, businesses and business intermediaries. For this reason, it is essential the Code be mandated,

providing clarity of purpose, and facilitates healthy relations between motor vehicle insurers and vehicle repairers.

4 Abolish the Luxury Car Tax.

The Luxury Car Tax (LCT) was introduced in 2000 to encourage buyers to purchase locallymanufactured vehicles over imported prestige vehicles. However, the final closure of passenger vehicle manufacturing in Australia now makes this tax redundant. The tax is charged at 33 per cent on the proportion of a vehicle priced over $66,331 (or $75,526 for ‘greener’ vehicles, e.g. electric vehicles). These thresholds are absurdly low and affect many ‘working’ vehicles. This includes four-wheel drive vehicles that meet the needs of rural buyers, such as the Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota LandCruiser and Nissan Patrol. They are all priced above the LCT threshold. These vehicles are essential for performing transport tasks on roads and in conditions that are often unsuitable for regular vehicles. This consequently penalises consumers in rural and

ThE LUxURy CAR TAx (LCT) WAS INTRODUCED IN 2000 TO ENCOURAGE BUyERS TO PURChASE LOCALLy-MANUFACTURED VEhICLES OVER IMPORTED PRESTIGE VEhICLES hOWEVER, ThE FINAL CLOSURE OF PASSENGER VEhICLE MANUFACTURING IN AUSTRALIA NOW MAKES ThIS TAx REDUNDANT.

AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICEShIPS NEED TO BE PROMOTED AS A RESPECTED AND CREDIBLE CAREER PATh, WITh VIBRANT NEW TEChNOLOGIES, SUCh AS ELECTRIC AND AUTONOMOUS VEhICLES, ON ThE hORIzON.

regional communities, who are often the purchasers of such vehicles for work purposes.

The automotive industry strongly believes the LCT is unfair and discriminatory towards consumers and motor vehicle dealers and acts to artificially inflate the price of vehicles offering the latest in safety and emission technologies.

5 Promote the value of automotive apprenticeships to employers, job seekers, parents and students.

MTA WA argues that raising the profile of automotive apprenticeships has flow-on benefits to improved commencement and completion rates for automotive apprenticeships.

Job seekers and school leavers need quality careers advice, with a focus on the viability and respectability of an automotive trade career. This advice includes informing parents, teachers and other youth leaders who are the primary influence in a student’s career choice.

Automotive apprenticeships need to be promoted as a respected and credible career path, with vibrant new technologies, such as electric and autonomous vehicles, on the horizon.

6 Increase incentives to hire and retain apprentices, including female apprentices.

It is crucial the right mix of incentives is offered to encourage the hiring and retention of apprentices. The current system is based on incentives for businesses to hire specific candidates, usually those facing employment barriers. MTA WA argues the system should be broadened to encourage employers to engage all types of candidates. This would improve retention rates and levels of employment diversity across the industry.

Incentives should also be structured to encourage employers to retain and invest in their apprentices, as opposed to one-off payments for placement.

7 Review aspects of Industrial Relations laws. Australia has become a costly place for small businesses to hire, retain and dismiss staff. It is also one of the most heavily regulated labour markets in the world, consistently ranking poorly on flexibility and responsiveness of our labour market when compared internationally. Specifically, MTA WA is calling for:

• A commitment to review the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code (SBFDC) and the procedural fairness process. The

SBFDC and the general procedural fairness framework used by the Fair Work Commission to determine whether termination was harsh, unjust and/ or unreasonable, has failed to produce a fair and balanced approach to termination issues. Consequently, employers are showing a reluctance to employ staff. The current SBFDC is not considered to be an effective or reliable code by industry and should be reviewed.

• MTA WA strongly opposes the introduction of industrial manslaughter laws across Australian states and territories. Industrial manslaughter laws have recently been legislated in Queensland, making it the first Australian state to subject companies to new criminal offences of corporate manslaughter and negligently causing serious harm. Such offences include serious fines and imposes criminal liability on individual directors

and senior managers. To date, there is no evidence that increasing the severity of penalties corresponds or correlates with a reduction in workplace deaths and/or injury.

• Reform of the Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Services and Retail Award and the Clerical Award. The automotive industry, dominated by small businesses, continues to find workplace laws difficult to navigate. Modern awards, including the Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Services and Retail Award 2010 and the Clerical Award must be reformed. This means simplifying the language and obligations of the Awards so businesses can easily understand their legal obligations. Workplace laws must be tailored to recognise the diverse range and acumen of businesses, noting small businesses operate differently to medium and large enterprises.

MTA WA and MTAA will work tirelessly over the forthcoming months to ensure that the key policy positions detailed in this article are understood by candidates in the upcoming election and that we can achieve policy outcomes that deliver real, beneficial change for the automotive industry.

ELECTRIfyINg TIMES for the Automotive Industry

Electric cars have been available in Australia for just over eight years and while there has been much hype about the uptake, the reality is that electric vehicles have failed to gain any real traction in the Australian market.

In 2018, 1,336 new electric vehicles were sold in Australia, with pricing and range anxiety being the two most cited reasons for the low take-up. Lack of supporting infrastructure, such as charging stations, has also played its part. While manufacturers such as Mitsubishi, Nissan, Holden, BMW and Tesla have all offered electric models previously, the majority of models have lacked range capacity and, with the exception of Tesla, have not been the most appealing in the looks department.

That’s all about to change

this year with no less than seven new models from mainstream manufacturers hitting showroom floors in 2019, heralding the start of what can be considered the next evolution of motor vehicle sales in Australia. Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Jaguar, Renault, Audi and Mercedes-Benz will all introduce electric models and, significantly, a number of models will sell for below $60,000.

Styling for all these new entrants now provides consumers with attractive, conventional looking cars that are packed with the

features that are in demand across all makes and models and provide real choice for those looking to electrify their driving.

Hyundai is offering an all-electric version of the Kona in two power variants, with the upper spec model having a range of more than 400km. Add to this a fast charging capacity that takes less than 30 minutes to bring the vehicle up to 80 per cent charge and a price point of approximately $60,000, and this will be an attractive option for green-conscious drivers. Hyundai will pair the Kona with a price leader in the IONIQ, which sells for around $50,000 including on-road costs, making this the cheapest fully electric car available on the market.

At the upper end of the market, Jaguar’s I-Pace has been available since the start of this year and offers an outstanding luxury package, including the latest in safety technology along with an impressive range of 480km. Pricing places it in line with current luxury marques offered by Porsche, BMW and Audi, so for the first time buyers in this category will be able to exercise their choice in going electric.

Audi and Mercedes-Benz will match this with Audi introducing its e-tron and Mercedes-Benz introducing its EQC models. With 95kWh and 80kWh batteries respectively, both makes will offer high degrees of luxury and ranges in excess of 400km, and these will again provide real options for buyers looking for a luxury alternative in the mid $100,000 range.

The above represents the start of the electric revolution in Australia with other major manufacturers joining the fight for market share. Volvo has announced that, from this year, every new model launched will have an electric motor, with the commitment that by 2025, half of all Volvo sales will be electric. BMW has responded by proposing no less than 12 full electric models will available by 2025.

The trend in the growth in electrification is now set and we only need to look to Europe where sales increased by 37 per cent last year to see the opportunities that exist. It will be interesting to see how Tesla sales, the market leader to date in this field, will fare against the new arrivals and to see how this part of the market grows over the next few years.

Always improving...

g.M. Millane still at ‘cutting

edge’

After marking five decades of successful business operation, you might continue doing what has worked for so long.

For G.M. Millane & Co Motor Trimmers, ‘normal’ has always been diversifying your service offering while investing in your equipment and people to adapt to changes in demand and in your industry.

family-owned business is still looking forward, investing tens of thousands of dollars in the past 12 months on state-of-the-art trimming equipment to remain at the cutting edge of its industry.

Such an investment indicates it isn’t going anywhere, despite occupying what is now prime Perth real estate, and also reflects confidence in the future of the business and the trimming industry in WA – as well as the wider automotive industry.

Anything but hot air

Most notable in the company’s recent investment is a new air bag machine that allows it to comply with increasingly-safety conscious standards and regulations. If a seat cover, for example, has been fitted in a car with the airbag installed, it has to be sewn with the same technology as the original machine so it will function as intended.

Motor demand for particular services has continually ebbed and flowed, with demand often going in cycles.

“When we started, it was vinyl roofs and floor carpets, replacement carpets, car seat cloth inserts – we had cars lined up for dealerships to re-cover seats,” he said.

“Nowadays improved quality means things last longer. By having diversification in the business and a broad client base, if one side of the business goes down, you need support so you don’t finish up with no work and no chance of expansion.”

Since Garry Millane opened the doors of MTA WA-member business

G.M. Millane & Co Motor Trimmers in East Perth in the late 1960s, the business’ trademarks have been constant investment, to improve the business, and diversification in the services provided, to ensure a steady demand for its services.

That consistent desire to innovate has combined with key ‘traditional’ attributes of successful businesses, such as a reputation for quality work and strong personal relationships with customers, to see the business reach a rare feat in any industry: 50 years of operation.

And even after reaching this golden landmark, the

Any repair is matched to a specific vehicle, with the machine printing out tags outlining the person who completed the repair job so any problems can be tracked back to the source. The machine will also not operate unless it ‘recognises’ the operator, ensuring only properly skilled technicians are completing work.

“Everything is advancing in technology and we looked at renewing machinery that is more advanced than what we had,” Garry Millane told Motor.

“We have always progressed our equipment as required. Everything is functional but we’re also big on safety and operating safely.”

Investing in equipment has gone hand-in-hand with diversifying the company’s services over the years.

Garry Millane confirmed to

A long-term relationship

General trim services include car upholstery repairs and re-trims; seat repairs; canvas seat covers; replacing roof lining, door panels, carpets, and all interior trim; soft tops for any make or model; and tonneau covers. As well as installing seat belts, suspension seats for trucks and buses, and child anchor points, the company specialises in leather and custom interior and restoration work.

One move in 50 years

While the business has grown and progressed over its 50 years, it has literally moved one street from its original premises.

G.M. Millane & Co Motor Trimmers’ customer base and expertise is testament to that diversification. Its customers range from new and used car dealerships, mining companies and child care centres to clients in the marine, medical equipment, transport, building, agriculture and aircraft industries.

Like many of its customers, G.M. Millane & Co Motor Trimmers has a longstanding relationship with its industry association. In fact, the company is MTA WA member #6, something to be proud of given the Association dates back to the mid-1930s. The business finds values in many of MTA WA’s ‘daily’ services, like hR and training, and has also engaged the Association’s services to resolve an unfair dismissal case.

Kaye Millane told Motor being an MTA WA member also gave customers confidence in the quality of the business, and having an effective organisation representing the industry was important.

“I think there is enormous benefit for us in being an MTA WA member,” she said. “We use the hR Department all the time for advice. MTA WA runs a lot of training and keeps us informed of the things we need to know to run our business.

“If we do have a problem, we go straight to them as our first point of call to run things past and we know they’ll know and be able to provide advice. It’s a big support for us to be able to refer to them, and we do.

“We’re also MTA WA-approved and people know that. That’s a big thing to have the MTA WA sign – it gives people comfort.

“It is a representative body that is very innovative in the industry in various things, and it’s specific to the motor trades.”

After completing his five-year motor trimmer apprenticeship and gaining his ‘ticket’, Garry Millane started G.M. Millane & Co Motor Trimmers at 182 Royal Street in East Perth. The premises was originally a grocers and when Garry moved in, it was operating as a crash repairer.

While he started his own business because of lack of opportunities to work for others, Garry employed another qualified motor trimmer within 12 months and the business was off and running. An apprentice and then another tradesperson followed, and within a few years the business outgrew the premises, moving one street away to Kensington Street.

History repeated and

by 1996, G.M. Millane & Co Motor Trimmers had outgrown another premises.

However, Garry realised the central East Perth location was convenient for customers to drop off their car and catch the train to any destination.

So this time, the business moved two doors down on the same road.

Business expansion was fuelled by its growing reputation, which was built on quality work that led to repeat custom, which then produced strong personal relationships with customers.

“The most important thing is quality,” Garry told Motor.

“We’re a quality operation. If we can’t do it properly, I’d rather not do it at all. Our reputation has been built on quality and reliability of our workmanship.

WE’RE A QUALITy OPERATION. IF WE CAN’T DO IT PROPERLy, I’D RAThER NOT DO IT AT ALL. OUR REPUTATION

hAS BEEN BUILT ON QUALITy AND RELIABILITy OF OUR WORKMANShIP

gARRy MILLANE ‘‘

“Over 50 years in business, you get well known for doing a good job; people keep coming back.”

Happy workforce

Garry Millane believes having a happy and stable workforce has been another reason for the business’ longevity; its longest serving employee has been with the company for 36 years.

The company has also always recognised the importance of employing apprentices, both for ensuring the business can meet demand but also to pass on expertise and secure the future of the specialist industry. At one point, Garry believes the company employed the highest number of motor trimmer apprentices in Australia.

“We look after our people and they look after us,”

Garry said. “There is air conditioning in the workshop, for example, and everyone has their own work bench.

“We’re fair, we’re flexible and we accommodate what they request to a certain degree. It’s a good premises to work in. It’s clean and tidy and the air conditioning makes it a pleasure to work here. People are comfortable and the work quality follows.”

“That stems from the top,” adds Kaye Millane, who has worked alongside Garry in the family business since the late 1970s. “Garry is very pleasant to them and in the workshop they are pleasant to each other. It’s a nice place to work.

“Garry is very hands on with customers too. If a customer has been with us for years, they still speak with Garry. That is how you create loyalty from your customer base.”

Motor trimming a special craft in WA

The MTA WA has a range of successful seat cover and motor trimming members, including many that undertake extensive development to ensure that their products meet the very robust demands of West Australian drivers and boaters. The industry has had to change at a fast pace given the complexity of manufacturing ‘airbag compliant’ covers that won’t impede the deployment of seat-based airbags. Boat trimmers must ensure products can continually withstand WA’s highly variable marine conditions.

The one thing that all businesses in this sector have in common is their investment in methods, training and capital to ensure that they can service the ever-changing needs of the market. With many of our members’ products proudly wearing

25 years of progress

One-man show now an international operation

By the age of 25, Garry Spouge was already running his own business, believing it was the best way to control the quality of the work his business produced and his own destiny in the automotive trade. A quarter of a century on, he’s still looking forward, investing in the business again to position it for continued success.

“When I started my business, someone I know in the trade told me WA is so small that if you treat someone badly, everybody knows,” Garry Spouge told Motor.

It’s advice the owner of MTA WA-member business Modern Motor Trimmers has always remembered – and followed. “He’s been right,” Garry added. “And it’s worse than ever now with social media.”

Did you know you can search for an MTA WA Member by service type, name, region or suburb on our new website?

a ‘Made in Australia’ tag, the importance of utilising quality materials rather than competing with cheaper imports on a price-only basis has generally proven to be successful, although not always possible.

The ongoing success of the motor trimming and upholstering sector in WA should provide assurance to businesses feeling the pinch to consider further investment in their business. Even in a challenging market, capital expenditure can pay large dividends for the business. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of hiring enthusiastic staff today that can be trained as the leaders for tomorrow. WA has a collective of young, middle-aged and even pension-aged upholsterers with a genuine passion for their craft made possible by their loyal employers and customers.

A simple search will instantly present a range of quality MTA Member businesses, including our Motor Trimmers and Upholsterers:

• Batavia Boat Trimmers

• Dutchy’s Trim Shop

• Gotya Seat Covers

• Malaga Motor Trimmers

• Millaines Motor Trimmers

• Mintetrans Specialist Motor Trimming

• Modern Motor Trimmers

• Supafit Seat Covers

Delivering for customers has always been a guiding principle in running the business, along with securing regular cash flow.

Diversifying your services is another key to the business’ longevity, as is continually investing in the business, whether that is investing in people, training or more efficient equipment.

“Looking after your customers and cash flow –customers first, and then cash flow,” Garry says.

“Make sure the product’s right and fit for purpose, customers are happy with it

and the quality is up to what they expect.

“And you have to have regular money coming in, and that’s by chasing every debtor continuously – I’ve got a lady who comes in and does that.”

Garry has again been ramping up investment in the business in preparation for an expected upswing in the economy his customers tell him is on the way. With many customers in the mining industry, Garry’s read on the market has often been on the money. He is also taking advantage of lower costs by investing before market conditions improve because “everything goes up in the boom”.

“I’m employing more people because there’s going to be a boom coming so we’ve got to be prepared,” he said. “It’s been low for so long, there hasn’t been much investing by business. Many people are reconditioning but we expect demand to grow –that’s what our customers are saying is happening.

IN BRIEF

WhEN I STARTED My BUSINESS, SOMEONE I KNOW IN ThE TRADE TOLD ME WA IS SO SMALL ThAT IF yOU TREAT SOMEONE BADLy, EVERyBODy KNOWS.

hE’S BEEN RIGhT. AND IT’S WORSE ThAN EVER NOW WITh SOCIAL MEDIA

gARRy SpOUgE, MODERN MOTOR TRIMMERS

“So I’m investing in people, investing in training, investing in plant and equipment, and investing in advertising.”

Learned a thing or two Garry Spouge started Modern Motor Trimmers in 1992, four years after completing his Motor Trimmer apprenticeship at Transperth, when his then boss retired from the industry.

The idea of controlling your own destiny appealed to the young man. Having experienced both ends of the quality spectrum in his first few years in the industry, so did being able to control the quality of outputs.

“I had worked for a guy who did poor quality work and then I worked for a guy who did top quality work and that seemed to me to be a better way of doing business,” Garry said.

“He retired and I could have gone and worked for someone else but I thought ‘give it a go yourself’, that way you’ve got control of your own destiny.”

The business began as the traditional one-man show in a small “shed” in Welshpool. Today it employs 25 staff and, as an authorised dealer for ISRI seats in addition to motor trimming, it services

customers across Australia and in Africa, South-East Asia and South America.

The mining and transport industries are its main customers, and further growth has Garry once again on the lookout for an opportunity to upgrade premises.

While that sage advice about customers Garry received at the start of his career has proven correct, the now 51-year-old has changed his thinking about one critical factor in thriving in business – what to look for in your people.

The business takes on new employees as factory hands and if they have the right attitude and are a good fit for the business, “we’ll train them up from there”.

The approach seems to be working in a difficult labour market, made more difficult by Modern Motor Trimmers’ employees having to comply with the strict drug and alcohol testing regime of its mining clients if they go on-site. Luck and persistence also helps in finding the right people, Garry adds.

“Find someone with a good attitude and then you can teach them the skills of the trade,” he told Motor.

“I used to think it was skills first, but now I think its attitude and ethics first and skills second.”

Apprentice employment incentive

With access to a $4,000 incentive for eligible employers, there’s never been a better time to take on a Textile Fabrication Apprentice. If you only require an apprentice for part-time work, there’s even a share apprenticeship program so you’re not committed to full-time employment of apprentices.

North Metropolitan TAFE trade courses will be commencing in April so act fast! For further information, contact Libby on 0417 963 441 or Ana on (03) 9521 2114.

Wayne Phipps Smash Repairs Gold Class

Wayne Phipps Smash Repairs in Midland has been awarded the prestigious I-CAR Gold Class Collision status.

“We are extremely proud to have achieved I-CAR Gold status,” said business owner Wayne Phipps.

“It has taken some time and energy but has been worth the ride. Staff at Wayne Phipps Smash Repairs have been enthusiastic and competitive during the journey,” he said.

“Cars are not all the same today and it is vitally important that our technicians understand the materials, structure and technology behind them. Therefore, post trade training is vital and while some repairers deem it unnecessary, or only train key individuals, I believe every person working on a vehicle should be topped up with as much knowledge as possible.

“All of us at Wayne Phipps Smash Repairs look forward to working with I-CAR on our journey of continuous improvement,” Wayne said.

It has been a great time for everyone involved at Wayne Phipps Smash Repairs. Along with achieving I-CAR Gold Class status they have also recently become part of the Holden Certified Repairer Network.

I-CAR, founded in 1979, is an international, not-forprofit, training organization dedicated to improving the quality, safety and efficiency of auto collision repair for the ultimate benefit of the consumer.

For further information, contact I-CAR Australia Gold Class Coordinator Gary Wood on 0459 218 579.

Iconic Italian moves into Balcatta

Born in Milano Italy in 1947, Lambretta had humble beginnings as a rather coarse, yet flamboyantly painted, foot-operated three-speed scooter. It wasn’t long before refinements were addressed on the B and C Models. The beloved Lambretta scooter as we know it today takes inspiration from the LC Model, created in April of 1950, and its siblings. With enclosed panels concealing the engine and leg shields extending up to the handlebars, it was to become a form of mobility synonymous with Italian culture.

Production included tricycle versions, providing workhorse applications for lighter duties, a 120-mile range Moped, nicknamed “The Ribot”, which took the strain out of cycling as well as the kind of scooter that only the Italians could have conceived: the Lambro Lambretta 150 FDC – a three wheeler ‘light truck’ featuring an enclosed cab and sunroof.

If a scooter, a tricycle and a ute had an intimate Tuscan getaway weekend, the Lambro would have been the resultant

baby! For those familiar with the Nedlands eatery Lambretta Cucina Italiana, you’ll recognise the Lambro as the converted red ‘coffee machine’, with its signature horn often sounding. Fast forward to April 1970 and the last Lambretta model began production, with all production ceased by 1972. The Lambretta name would never become a relic, however, with a cult following having developed over the proceeding decades. Television, film, print and pop-culture all embraced the icon as something symbolic of a style-infused era in Italy’s rich cultural history.

Much like the VW Beetle served initially as a humble transportation device and progressed to become a retro status symbol, future adopters of Lambrettas have become a passionate group of like-minded enthusiasts.

Blessed were we in 2018 to have the Lambretta brand resurrected in Perth with a nod to its history and a focus on attracting a new generation of adopters.

Light emitting diodes meet sculpted leg shields in the 2018 V-Special Fix-Fender models. Ranging from 50cc to 200cc and doused in vivid colours ranging from brown to orange, buyers even have the aftermarket option of carbon panels. Only in 2018 could we have a Lambretta that combines luggage hooks with USB charging ports.

Ace Scooters in Balcatta are authorised stockists of the new Lambretta range and recently held a launch day with 150 enthusiasts. With some traditionalists taking time to warm to the modern touches and others eager to own a modernised classic, there was no shortage of chatter and excitement on the day.

Lambretta sits side-byside with the Vespa, SWM and Kymco brands at the Ace Scooters showroom. Adding an extra touch of Milano flair to to the Lambretta range is the all-new Pirelli edition.

A limited-edition collaboration between the two Milan-born marques (Pirelli has been the tyre of choice for Lambretta since the 1950s), the Lambretta V 125 Special Pirelli Edition is part of a production group of only 999 globally.

Ace Scooters are fortunate enough to have secured a handful of examples of this rarity, which can be viewed now if you’re quick!

Visit Ace Scooters at 5/257 Balcatta Road, Balcatta (Cnr of Balcatta and Wanneroo Roads).

IF A SCOOTER, A TRICyCLE AND A UTE hAD AN INTIMATE TUSCAN GETAWAy WEEKEND, ThE LAMBRO WOULD hAVE BEEN ThE RESULTANT BABy!

from graduate to apprentice employer

In the heart of Mandurah’s horsepower precinct, Greenfields, is a business owner so enthusiastic that she has gone from being a graduate Apprentice of the Automotive Institute of Technology to an apprentice employer in just four years.

Brooke’s Girl Torque Mechanical offers something unique in the region – mechanical services from someone who is not only youthful and forward-thinking, but also highly motivated and unwilling to ‘just get by’.

Brooke Miller is a true revhead, expert mechanic and go karting lover. When she’s not running her business, you’ll find her and brother Cody Leunen at the Bunbury City Kart Club, where Cody is a multiple title holder. Cody works for Brooke as an apprentice,

as she sees the value in what apprentices and the Automotive Institute of Technology can bring to a business like hers.

Knowing the important role that apprentices play, Brooke doesn’t just leave Cody to do basic oil changes and tyre pressure checks. He is ‘elbow-deep’ in grease, assisting Brooke with a full engine rebuild of a petrol V6 engine.

Brooke says her passion for ensuring Cody’s future success is down to two reasons. Firstly, Brooke’s Girl Torque Mechanical is a family-focused business.

From the reception to the workshop, customers don’t just deal with staff, they deal with Brooke’s family. Secondly, Brooke acknowledges that it wasn’t that long ago she was an apprentice herself and she

Brooke Miller and her apprentice brother, Cody

credits today’s success not only to her work ethic, but the fact that an employer gave her a chance just like she’s giving Cody.

From an employer perspective, Brooke said that “[The AIT’s] Block training makes it easier, because there’s less coming and going and I can plan jobs around when Cody is in the workshop.” In the automotive repair world where time is the most crucial commodity, the ability to be able to plan a consistent workflow around Cody’s attendance is paramount.

The Automotive Institute of Technology is inherently proud of accomplished graduates such as Brooke and is not surprised that

she has gone on to operate a successful business, providing a full suite of mechanical services. The fact that the same training programme is assisting Cody to achieve the same dream under Brooke’s mentorship is even more exciting, as it demonstrates a clear understanding and appreciation of the proven benefits of employing automotive apprentices.

IT WASN’T ThAT LONG AGO I WAS AN APPRENTICE MySELF AND AN EMPLOyER GAVE ME A ChANCE JUST LIKE I’M GIVING CODy.

EXPERT TO EXPERT ENGINUITY

‘FILLED FOR LIFE’ DRIVELINE COMPONENTS? REGULAR MAINTENANCE IS THE KEY TO RELIABLE PERFORMANCE.

INDUSTRY STANDARDS?

Driveline fluids, like engine oils, are approved to industry standards such as API, SAE J2360 and MT-1 performance levels. As an example, take Castrol Syntrax Universal Plus 75W-90 that is qualified to API GL4, GL5 and MT-1. These leading industry bodies and certifications determine the minimum requirements for fluids used in the majority of vehicles in Australia. These standards provide you and your customer with a level of confidence that the oil or fluid you use in your workshop has the appropriate level of performance to ensure long equipment life, particularly where no OEM specification is listed.

IF WE HAVE INDUSTRY STANDARDS, WHY DO OEMS DEFINE THEIR OWN STANDARDS?

OEMs are increasingly working with lubricant companies to define their own standards for lubricant performance. These fluids are tailored specifically for the components they manufacture. These standards ensure the lubricant delivers superior performance as they are developed for the engine or component manufactured by the OEM.

Castrol has partnerships with major OEMs such as the VW group, Ford and Jaguar/Land Rover. This provides Castrol with an opportunity to begin developing lubricants years in advance of the release of a component, when it exists only as a drawing. This approach gives Castrol’s Lubrication Engineers a unique insight into the tribology and specific requirements of the components so they can deliver a product that maximises performance and extends component life. This is Castrol Co-Engineering! To secure lubricant approvals often requires lengthy field trials that can last for up to 5 years. Castrol Syntrans FE 75W was developed in partnership with Ford and is one great example of co-engineering.

WHERE DID THE IDEA OF ‘FILLED FOR LIFE’ ORIGINATE?

DO ‘FILLED FOR LIFE’ OILS REALLY LAST THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE?

‘Filled for Life’ may genuinely mean an oil never needs to be changed. However, this is largely determined by the conditions under which the vehicle is driven. If the vehicle is driven under “normal” driving conditions, it is possible that the driveline fluids will not need to be replaced. This is achievable because certain driveline components, such as transmission oils, do not have to deal with combustion by products like engine oils do. The reduction in the level of contaminants and the use of high quality synthetic base oils makes driveline components suitable for longer service intervals. Under abnormal driving conditions, such as towing and high load applications, the oil temperature is usually higher and for longer periods. Under these conditions it is good practice to recommend an oil change at half the recommended service interval. Call the Castrol technical team for advice if unsure.

OEMs are working to improve fuel efficiency and provide quality driveability. This has led to the development of OEM service fill specifications for driveline products. Common examples are DEXRON® for Holden transmissions and MERCON® performance levels for Ford transmissions. Castrol Transmax DEXRON®-VI MERCON® LV is OEM approved and licensed by Ford (MERCON® LV) and GM (DEXRON®VI). As competition for car sales increases, “filled for life” becomes a strategy to reduce the cost of ownership of a vehicle and improve its environmental impact by removing the need to change the oil, filters and screens in manual and automatic transmissions and in differentials and cooling systems. Typically these filled for life fluids are extremely high quality synthetic oils or long life coolants with the relevant OEM approval. The Castrol Technical Team are regularly asked; 1) Do ‘Filled for Life’ oils really last the life of the vehicle? and 2) Should change a ‘Filled for Life’ oil at the next service?

Additional limitations exist where a vehicle is driven on dusty roads, sand or are submersed in water (i.e. 4WD vehicles). Under these driving conditions, regular maintenance is highly recommended.

SHOULD I CHANGE A ‘FILLED FOR LIFE’ OIL AT THE NEXT SERVICE?

Some people are very passionate about their vehicles and look to change the car’s fluids, including those that are filled for life, at more regular intervals than those recommended. Provided the approved lubricants are used to replace these fluids there should be no impact on warranty.

More regular servicing may appear to be excessive but it may also assist with improved durability. This is critical where the vehicle is driven in tough conditions and where a vehicle encounters the harsh Australian conditions. Regular maintenance removes the risk and is the key to reliable performance.

For further advice, please contact your car manufacturer or the Castrol technical team for assistance.

AMERICA’S fIRST MOTORCyCLE BRAND

still roaring in Perth

In a perfectly assembled formation on Albany Highway in Cannington rests a collection of Indian Motorcycles just aching to be ridden by their future owners. More than a dozen iconic Indian bikes line the carpark, whetting the appetite of passers-by and luring them into a dealership that combines elements of American diners, cafes, retail stores and museums.

Dealership Manager and MTA WA Member Aaron Robeson is proud of providing a focal point for a riding community, rather than a traditional retail dealership experience. From the Official Indian Motorcycles Riders’ Group to their ‘Weekend Escapes’ 2-day test rides, it is clear the bikes in the car park are made to be ridden and experienced, not just tested.

The historic Indian Motorcycle brand is America’s oldest, with the company being registered in 1901 and selling its first production example in 1902.

Although it has a rather complicated history, due to various ownership changes spanning the life of the name, the proven strengths of parent company Polaris have ensured the brand is now as significant as it has ever been.

One thing has been constant, through wartimes, depressions, recessions and ownership changes – the fast, reliable and proven racing pedigree of Indians. For this reason, Aaron’s dealership has a focus on rider experiences that are true to the heritage of the brand.

Inside the enormous showroom, Indian Motorcycle visitors can browse truly unique motorcycles, classic apparel and Americana. The inspired décor ensures a true connection to the nostalgia, power and speed that Indian Motorcycles represent. With names like Chieftain, Dark Horse and Roadmaster, you know that these motorbikes are more than just image driven.

Aaron and his team are proud of the many hours they spend maintaining the museum-like showroom and their customers love it too.

“We have riders who pop in on a Saturday morning and will meet – sometimes for the first time – fellow riders who are also passionate about Indians. Next thing they are riding together in the afternoon. It’s an incredible place for any biker to visit”.

Combined with unique offers like ‘Weekend Escapes’ that allow riders to test

the models for a whole weekend with included hotel accommodation and a seven day buyback guarantee on used bikes, the confidence in their product is obvious.

“We don’t speak poorly of other brands, however we know that when people truly get the chance to ride these motorbikes in their normal riding environments, they really love them. You can’t get that from a test ride around the block,” Aaron said.

By focusing on the experience rather than just sales, the Indian Motorcycle dealership in Cannington stands out as a unique way to engage customers and keep them returning as a community, long after the sale ends. Aaron also employs an MTA WA Automotive Institute of Technology Apprentice, Ryan Castellarin, proving that the most progressive businesses also focus on the future of the business.

By FOCUSING ON ThE ExPERIENCE

RAThER ThAN JUST SALES, ThE

INDIAN MOTORCyCLE DEALERShIP IN CANNINGTON STANDS OUT AS A UNIQUE WAy TO ENGAGE CUSTOMERS AND KEEP ThEM RETURNING AS A COMMUNITy, LONG AFTER ThE SALE ENDS

NO REgRETS...

• Indian Motorcycle dealership offers unique experiences

• America’s oldest motorcycle brand has a deep, rich history and race pedigree

• Customers love the freedom to browse, experience and enjoy incredible, unique ‘weekend escape’ test-rides

• Dealership Manager Aaron Robeson and his team work tirelessly to maintain a high level of community engagement within the dealership

f1 Challenge Black Series

come out to play and friends

There is a certain way some of us speak about our favourite vehicle. It’s a bit like a preferred child – except it listens and responds how we’d like every time – or an irresistible desire, an itch that won’t be satisfied until you have one in your possession. This is how Steve Beauglehole speaks about his C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series, the subject of this edition’s Member Ride.

The white Black Series was a vehicle Steve Beauglehole ‘had to have’. It is one of just 32 brought into Australia, and the first C 63 Black Series that came to our shores.

The Black Series is a track version of the AMG road car, and this model landed in Australia in March 2012 to take part in a special challenge race as part of that year’s Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix. It was piloted by Mick Doohan in a series of one-lap handicap sprints against a V8 Supercar and a genuine F1 racer.

Rated to 380kW of power and 620Nm of torque, and finished in Diamond White paint work and matte black wheels, this C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series also sported the optional AMG Aerodynamics package that includes an adjustable rear aerofoil, enlarged front splitter and carbon fibre flics on the front bumper. It takes just 4.2 seconds to reach 100kmh from a standing start.

“The white C 63 Black Series was flown into Australia for the grand prix in 2012,” Steve Beauglehole told Motor. “It was the first C 63 Black Series to come into Australia.

“The vehicle was used in the Challenge, which had the V8 Supercar, the F1 and

“My hOBBy IS LOOKING AFTER AND COLLECTING VEhICLES. ALL ThE MOTORBIKES hAVE BEEN FULLy RESTORED By MySELF AND I JUST LOVE MOTORBIKES AND FAST CARS.”

the Mercedes-Benz C 63, and Mick Doohan was using the vehicle for some promotional stuff as well at the time.

“That vehicle is one of 32 into Australasia. I knew it was coming up in the

Mercedes-Benz auction and I purchased it straight from there in 2012.

“It is governed at 300kmh but I’ve never been anywhere near that. They’re designed to go a lot faster but I’m

happy enough to just go for a Sunday drive and just enjoy the drive.

“My hobby is looking after and collecting vehicles. All the motorbikes have been fully restored by myself and I just love motorbikes and fast cars.”

The white C 63 Black Series is the centrepiece of Steve

Beauglehole’s collection, which includes two Mercedes-Benz 560SLs from the 1980s and Kawasaki Z1R and Z1000 motorcycles from the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. The vehicles made a rare public appearance as part of an AMG Club of Perth event, which Steve hosted at the Mercedes-Benz Bunbury

dealership. An array of vehicles were on show for the event, including other rare Black Series models, the ‘Green Meanie’ GT R and a surprise visitor, a 1977 E280 (see below).

Love child

Steve Beauglehole can thank – or blame – a customer for igniting his passion to own a Black Series, a range AMG launched in 2006.

“The first Black Series models made were the CLK Black Series. They were numbered, and 32 of those also came to Australasia,” he said.

“We bought this car in as the first one in Australia. Back in 2008, they weren’t going to bring the Black Series into Australia. It

just wasn’t coming into Australia; there were a few design rules that stopped them from coming in.

“One of my clients, he was emailing me and I was passing the emails on to Mercedes-Benz, trying to get these cars into Australia, and eventually they changed some of the cars to meet the ADR and they actually decided to bring them in.

“Because of his persistence, they offered my customer number 1 of 32, so that’s how he came to have number 1. The vehicle is rarely used – it’s done just over 2000km – but after my customer basically talked Mercedes-Benz into bringing in the black one, I decided it wouldn’t be a bad idea if I got one as well.”

Advancing age may have dimmed his eyesight, but there is clearly nothing wrong with Wyndham Rendell’s ability to sniff out a Mercedes-Benz motoring event.

The Bunbury local is a long-time friend of Steve Beauglehole and, although unaware of the AMG club event, Wyndham happened to drop in to see his old mate on the exact same day.

“The 1977 E280 belongs to Wyndham Rendell, he’s a Bunbury local and his family used to own a well-known business here years ago,” Steve Beauglehole said.

“That is his family car that the family has had since new. He’s unable to drive the car but he looks after it and keeps it well.

“He just came over to see me. It was just by chance the AMG cars were here, so he had a look, and I got the photos with him because I’ve been servicing that vehicle from new. I was at the Mercedes-Benz dealer when the family originally bought that car.”

If I COULD OWN ANy CAR...

Steve Mitchinson

Driver and Vehicle Services, Department of Transport

VL Walkinshaw Commodore

‘‘

I’m a bit old school – my favourite car is the old VL Walkinshaw Commodore.

“When it came out it was just so different – all the wings and that sort of stuff – and being a dyed-in-thewool Holden man. Then later I raced Commodores at the Motorplex, but yes that’s my all-time favourite car: the VL Walkinshaw Commodore, the light silvery blue one with all the big wings.

“When I saw it at Shacks down at Fremantle, I thought this thing’s awesome, it was so different to anything on the streets. At that point about the wildest wing you ever got was on an A9X.

“This was just so different, so sporty and sleek. It’s obviously not a Skyline or a Porsche or anything like that. Whatever it was at that stage in my life I thought that’s so wicked, an awesome looking car that was just so different.

“I suppose I thought that’s the first full race car you’ve seen on the streets that looked like a race car.

“If I won lotto, one of the first things I’d do is try and find one. I’ve got a three car

garage and there is space for a third car.”

Ravenswood revhead

“I’m a revhead, way back to the Ravenswood days. My uncle first took me to the Motorplex when Ravenswood opened – he and his mate ran a little front engine dragster and I started crewing for them when I was 12 or 13.

“Then I went into a few modified street cars. That went by the by when we had kids, but when I got a bit older, I got back into it.

“With my boys, we raced a couple of cars at the Motorplex. Our first was a VK Commodore. We actually were the first people in Australia to run a naturally aspirated 5L Commodore in the 10 seconds mark.

“At the time, about 15 or 16 years ago, I was going

through brain cancer treatment and my son had started developing his car with Brett Stewart [who owns MTA WA-member business Formula Tech Dyno Centre].

Brett built the engine for it and he said ‘I’m going to build a supercar for you given what you’re going through’.

“Then he made the bold statement that one of his

Commodores was going to run 10 seconds and it was on the front of Street Commodore – ‘these guys are going to run 10 seconds in 5L, yeah we’d like to see that’. Next week we ran a 10.81.

“I had a souped-up Skyline at one stage and then I had a tricked up Statesman, again courtesy of Brett. Once it’s in your blood, you can’t get it out.”

Palazzo reFurBIshed,

but traditional values remain

There’s an atmospheric buzz at Palazzo Automotives on Ruth Street in Perth. After recent renovations to the façade, offices and administration building attached to the workshop, the site blends perfectly with its cosmopolitan surroundings.

For five decades, Palazzo Automotives has been servicing the vehicles of generations of clients. Although the industry has changed significantly since Paul Palazzo founded the business, his son and now owner, Anthony Palazzo, has ensured that the attention to detail and customer service that the business is famous for hasn’t.

Motor visited Anthony and his team to see the mural artwork and refurbishment first-hand. As the photos illustrate, it’s an unmissable and appealing design.

The mix of ultracontemporary refurbishments and old-fashioned service mirror the neighbouring mix of

modern and restored heritage buildings.

And the theme continues inside. Retro motoring collectibles combine with creative touches such as tools for door handles. Overall, it’s a well planned and inviting space for visitors.

The project was managed by Dom Minniti of Domination Homes who, incidently, took out the Master Builders Association ‘Best Display Home’ Award for 2019. Whilst not a luxury residence, the Palazzo Automotives site certainly benefitted from Dom’s experience. The iconic mural by artist Daek William is the ultimate industrial-urban statement and pays perfect

homage to the legacy of the business.

“It’s a welcoming space for customers and staff,” said Anthony Palazzo. “The site has location benefits and we wanted to make sure the refurbishment was still in keeping with the location”. We couldn’t help but notice how much the staff liked it, too. “I have to look after them, because they look after my customers,” chuckled Anthony.

Like most businesses, Anthony has noticed that consumer trends may have changed but customer service was still key.

In an industry where customers may not see their car on the hoist, building

presentation is an oftenforgotten but critically important consideration for all automotive repairers.

The Palazzo Automotives site benefits customers and the community alike, with the mural being visually appealing to all. While businesses mostly think of customers when they invest, community integration has long term benefits as local residents appreciate the contributions that local businesses make, particularly when those businesses are sensitive to the urban surroundings.

EXpANSION SECURES BUSINESS’ fUTURE – AgAIN

When you have built up a well-known brand over 40 years, there is risk in branching out into a new marque. For Strett Cull, Cully’s Yamaha owner, the bigger risk was in not diversifying his well-known business.

Cully’s Yamaha is an institution in West Australian motorcycling circles, starting in a 269sqm premises in 1976. Ten years ago, the motorcycle and accessories business expanded, tripling in size overnight, turning a small battling business into a bright and impressive premises across three floors.

Now, owner Strett Cull has taken the business’ next natural step in growth to once again secure the future of the family business, expanding next door to add the Triumph

Balcatta dealership to its existing motorcycle retail, service, parts and accessories operation.

While opportunity came knocking – in the form of the premises next door becoming available and the lack of a Triumph dealer servicing the northern suburbs – Strett Cull was already looking to diversify the business to ensure continued success.

He is positive about the future of the industry, believing the new investment places the business in a strong position to take

advantage when economic conditions improve in WA in the not-too-distant future.

“The expansion was just about trying to diversify and adding to what we already had without diminishing anything, and we felt Triumph was still a respected motorcycle brand but a different demographic,”

Strett Cull told Motor

“And it would add to our accessories sales, but basically diversifying and adding to what we had without diminishing it. If we had chosen another Japanese brand, we would

be diminishing what we’ve already built up over the past 40 years.

“We were looking to expand and the additional property next to us became vacant, so it was going to finish the building off and look great, and Lloyd Chapman Motorcyles shut about two years ago so Triumph was looking at replacing that dealer with someone slightly further north to service the northern suburbs.”

future bright ahead

Even though the businesses share the same owner, the existing Cully’s Yamaha and the new Triumph Balcatta are run as separate operations. External BRIGhT FUTURE

appearance reinforces that, with the 300sqm Triumph outlet clearly marked in Triumph branding and having its own dedicated entrance, workshop and staff.

Behind the scenes, dual business ownership provides economies of scale for Strett Cull, such as only having to invest in one computer and one telephone system. While staff are dedicated to each site, Strett does have the option to move staff between businesses if demands necessitates.

While he admits deciding to expand again is a “bit of a take a deep breath moment”, Strett is confident it is the right move. While some would scale back at a time when motorcycles sales have been struggling, Strett has taken the opposite view, positioning the business for the inevitable upturn. In fact, he believes, not expanding and investing in the business would have put its future in more peril.

“ThE ExPANSION WAS JUST ABOUT TRyING TO DIVERSIFy AND ADDING TO WhAT WE ALREADy hAD WIThOUT DIMINIShING ANyThING, AND WE FELT TRIUMPh WAS STILL A RESPECTED MOTORCyCLE BRAND BUT A DIFFERENT DEMOGRAPhIC.”

“I would not have done it if I didn’t think it wasn’t going to work,” he told Motor. “It’s probably a little bit confronting or scary, but the reality is if we didn’t expand we would have had to reduce staff, we would have had to reduce the business and then the service we’d be able to provide, there would have been less stock on the shelf – it would not have been a good position to be in.

“I’m not really one for pulling back, sometimes to my own detriment, but everything is cyclical isn’t it?

History shows it sorts of goes in cycles – everything goes up, everything goes down –and it has to come back.

“Things are already moving in the mining and other industries. We take a little longer to feel the flow through but I’m of the positive opinion that 18 months or two years down the track we’ll turn the corner and get going again, and the money that we’ve invested in infrastructure should put us in the box seat to move forward.

“It is just a matter of trying to get the timing right. No one has a crystal ball and it would be nice if someone said ‘ok one year or two years or three years’, you could do your cash flows and budgets, but you’ve got to go with your gut feeling at different times.”

Modern business –do everything well

Strett Cull, who has run Cully’s Yamaha since 1994, believes it is harder to be in business these days than it was when he took over the family business a quarter of a century ago.

While he is confident expansion will secure his future in the motorcycle business, he told Motor changing consumer demands meant modern businesses needed to do everything well to prosper.

“What you did 15 years ago I think in any business is not going to work,” he said.

“Diversifying of brands is one thing but how you do business and engage with clients, be it online or bricks

and mortar, it’s certainly getting harder and you can’t afford to not have all your boxes ticked anymore.

“Once upon a time, if you did do one thing well, if you had a great location or whatever it might be, you’d be able to rely on that one thing. These days, it’s a lot harder. Everything has to be good and if one thing isn’t working then it brings the whole operation down.

“You’ve got to have a good bricks and mortar store – when I say brings and mortar, it’s not just a fancy showroom and the nice lighting package, you’ve got to have good staff as well –you’ve got to have a good online operation, you’ve got to have good social media reach.

“You’ve got have all that and if any one of those things isn’t working, the whole operation suffers.”

New year brings significant new benefits for MTA WA Members!

PSI Systems have established themselves as leaders in the manufacture, supply and servicing of superior car washing and high-pressure cleaning equipment to the automotive and resources industries. PSI also has a strong commitment to wastewater management, recycling and controlled waste management services.

PSI Systems services include (but are not limited to):

• Car wash equipment servicing, repairs and installation

• Separator service

• Water sampling

• Pit evacuation (2 x vacuum trucks operating on Controlled Waste License T00787)

• Drain jetting

• Vacuum cleaner servicing and installation

MTA WA MEMBER OffER

Separator Service - $195.00+GST (Normally $240.00+GST)

Car Wash Machine Service - $195.00+GST (Normally $240.00+GST)

Separator and Car Wash Machine Service$295.00+GST (Normally $480.00+GST)

Auto Shield Group is a Western Australian family-owned company based in Perth. Auto Shield Group was established to provide the automotive industry with a reliable, competitive and complete car cleaning solution.

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Their vision is to continually improve and develop innovative products and systems that meet the changing needs of clients and the industry.

Auto Shield is more than just a chemical supplier. As a reputable and trustworthy business partner, Auto Shield embrace the values of continuous improvement, product development and best practices in all aspects of car care, and after sales service.

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• 4 x boxes (100/box) of BLUE NITRILE PRO Gloves

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• 4 x Black HD chemical trigger sprayers

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The MTA WA are working to provide you with more value out of your membership. Part of this initiative has involved establishing a “preferred suppliers” list, with tailored special offers and member-only benefits from leading industry suppliers. Introducing our three newest partners and their offers...

SpECIAL OffER fOR NEW pSI CLIENTS WHO ARE MTA WA MEMBERS

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Call 0430 833 041

As a Motor Trade Association of WA member with an ABN, Officeworks offers you exclusive business pricing on everyday items* purchased for your business. Sign up to an Officeworks 30 Day Business Account and access benefits like:

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tech-centre

Diamond Washers

Component downsizing and cost saving during manufacture has pushed vehicle manufacturers to look for alternative ways of carrying out what used to be a simple undertaking. One example is the removal of keyways from engine components.

On crankshafts or camshafts, the main bolts need to be firmly attached so that they can absorb any applied torque without slipping. Usually if we want to transfer greater torque, we need larger and therefore heavier and costlier components. However, using a friction disk or washer in between the components locks them together firmly and allows for the transmission of four times the amount of torque.

These friction disks or washers are coated on both sides with a nickel matrix. The nickel is embedded with a fixed amount of diamond particles that have a specified size. If the disk is mounted between two engine parts, the hard diamond particles are pressed into the mating surfaces and lock them together. This allows higher forces and torques to be transferred simply and cheaply without structural change.

To ensure the washer works reliably, it is important to replace it whenever the connected components are removed, or their positions disturbed.

Various car manufacturers have used these washers for many years now, so you have probably come across quite a few in that time. They are used with crankshafts, camshaft

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assemblies, flywheels and balance shaft units. Additionally, they are commonly used in high performance and motorsport applications.

They are most commonly used in applications where there is no keyway. However, manufacturers can also use them along with keyed parts, to increase the strength of the uniting bond.

It is best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions about whether the vehicle uses friction diamond washers that need to be replaced. Also, your spare parts supplier can usually help by providing information about which washers are diamond coated.

All shapes and sizes

Diamond washers can come in all shapes and sizes. They can also be found in a variety of drivetrain parts. It is usually impossible to tell simply by looking at them, which is why it is important to refer to the manufacturers recommendations regarding replacement of these parts.

One or two shims?

Depending on design, some engines may use a single shim or washer between the balancer pulley and the crankshaft sprocket.

However, the Duratec 2.5L V6 engine (fitted to a number of Ford & Mazda vehicles) uses two shims, one on either side of the crankshaft sprocket. Although they are thin, these 3M Friction Shims are just as effective in locking components together due to their carefully designed surface coating.

Caution: Because these washers and shim are located behind pulleys or sprockets they can easily fall when the larger part is removed. They can end up in the sump or jammed into an awkward spot without even being noticed, which could end up causing engine damage if not retrieved.

Some engines use a diamond-coated washer to prevent relative movement between the crankshaft and balancer puller. This washer must be replaced, along with the torque-to-yield bolt, every time the pulley is removed.

Surface properties

This is a scanning electron microscope photograph of the surface structure of a 3M Friction Shim.

The photo was taken after the parts were assembled and then disassembled, which caused the diamond particles to protrude beyond the surface where it contacted the mating surface.

The diamond particles ‘dug into’ the mating surface. This prevented any relative movement between components and effectively locked them together.

Once used, the diamonds and surrounding material will not move the same way again. Which is why the washers or shims need to be replaced each time they are separated.

Nickel phosphorus coated diamond powder is deposited onto the washers using an electroless plating process.

Harmonic balancer trouble

Mechanics regularly inform us of harmonic balancers that have caused engine damage after slipping on the crankshaft, falling off or even snapping the end off of the crankshaft.

There once was a time when you merely had to tighten a balancer bolt in the most convenient way, without ever having a problem.

To tighten the bolt you could hit a breaker bar with a hammer or set the rattle gun to three wacks.

The parts had sufficient tolerances and were robust enough to handle these kinds of abuses.

Balancer Variations

Some engines did not originally use diamond-coated washers, however, to reduce the likelihood of engine failure have washers as part of a repair procedure.

Replacement harmonic balancers will come with a shorter collar to accommodate the fitting of a washer. If replacing a balancer, check that the new collar has the same depth as the original. If it is shorter, this may be because it is designed for use with a friction washer.

Harmonic balancers are causing more than their fair share of engine problems as a result of mechanics not closely following installation procedures.

However, most new engines save weight and cost by using the least amount of metal they need. They do not even have keyways to align parts and may use expensive washers to hold parts together.

Some mechanics baulk at replacing these washers, which often start at $20 and can easily cost more than double that amount. You may wonder, “Are they diamond coated or something?” Well as a matter of fact they are.

The point is that there are no longer any short cuts.

The most recent report that we have had on engine damage was in a Volkswagen Crafter with a 2.5L BJK engine, so we will use this as an example.

This engine design is used in a whole range of vehicles. These include Volkswagen Crafter, LT and T4, Audi A6 and Volvo 850, S70, S80, V70.

To correctly install a balancer on these engines you must:

• Replace the diamond-coated washer and bolt,

• Ensure parts are clean and dry,

• Oil the balancer bolt head and thread,

• Lock the crankshaft,

• Tighten the balancer bolt in two stages. There are no time or cost savers. Failing to follow all required steps is likely to cause expensive damage.

Single touch payroll reporting becomes law for all businesses

Legislation passed through Parliament will mean employers with 19 or fewer employees will have to report under the Single Touch Payroll (STP) regime by 1 July 2019. Employers with 20 or more employees came under these reporting requirements as from 1 July 2018.

The Australian Taxation Office is encouraging small business owners to take some simple steps as they transition to Single Touch Payroll reporting (STP).

Single Touch Payroll is a new way for business owners to send tax and super information to the ATO from accounting software, however some software may need to be updated to allow STP reporting.

The ATO would support businesses as they transition to STP reporting with a range of free online tools and services.

The ATO also encourages business owners to review their employees’ superannuation entitlements to ensure they are paying the correct amount and to keep accurate records. Once businesses begin reporting through STP, employees will be able to view their super information and year-to-date tax online in myGov.

The ATO offers a range of free tools, calculators and services to help small businesses transition to STP reporting, which are available online at www.ato.gov.au

The fair Work Amendment (Domestic and family Violence Leave) Act 2018

Up until 12 December 2018, only national system employees covered by a modern award had access to take unpaid leave to deal with the impact of family and domestic violence.

EMpLOyER AND IR UpDATE

Parliament have now passed the Fair Work Amendment (Domestic and Family Violence Leave) Act 2018 which further extends this entitlement to all national system employees, including award and agreement-free employees as well as casual employees, effective now.

The Fair Work Amendment (Domestic and Family Violence Leave) Act 2018 provides for unpaid family and domestic leave entitlements to form part of the National Employment Standards (NES) within the Fair Work Act 2009. The entitlement provides an employee with 5 days of unpaid leave, available in full at the commencement of each 12-month period of employment. The entitlement does not accrue from year to year, unlike with annual leave or personal leave.

Current employees who have accessed some or all of their family and domestic violence leave under a modern award will, upon introduction of the provisions into the NES, be entitled to a ‘top up’ of 5 days unpaid family and domestic leave. If a current award covered employee has not accessed any of their entitlement no change is necessary.

If an employer has a current in-term enterprise agreement and discovers that the new provisions in the NES create difficulty in the operation of that agreement, they can apply to the Fair Work Commission to vary the agreement provisions.

Employers should be aware that they are obligated, as far as is reasonably practicable, to keep any information in relation to an employee’s claim for family and domestic violence leave confidential.

Civil penalties of up to $64,000 may be imposed should an employer contravene the new family and domestic violence leave provisions.

four yearly review modern awards – update

The Fair Work Commission recently issued a statement on the current four year award review which commenced in January 2014. This statement provides an overview of finalising all modern awards by October 2019.

New drafts of the re-published exposure awards will be available shortly for the parties to view and make final comments.

Modern awards

There will be changes and variations made to the operation of the current modern awards. For example, under the current Vehicle Manufacturing, Repairs Services and Retail Award 2010, the manufacturing section will be moved to the new manufacturing award. Other changes will include new clauses for vehicle sales (salesperson) remunerations.

Members will be advised upon the completion of the new awards and details of changes, variations and amendments.

Plain language

A Statement was issued providing an update about the current status of the matters that are before the Plain Language Full Bench and about the next steps in the plain language project, including the awards that have been identified for plain language re-drafting during 2019.

The Statement also provides information regarding a process called the ‘plain language light touch’. Each exposure draft will go through this process, and the timeline attached to this Statement notes that the relevant updates to the exposure

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

directions for resolving a number of issues that have been referred to the Plain Language Full Bench from the award stage of the Review. These issues include the following:

• Annual, weekly and hourly rates in minimum wages tables

• Cross-references in coverage clauses

• Occupational health and safety references

• Substitution of public holidays

• Reasonable overtime

• National Training Wage

• Terminology of rates

• Take home pay and absorption clause

• Spread of hours

• Shutdown provisions

• Hourly rates of pay schedules

– minimum hourly rate and percentage of ordinary hourly rate.

Motor Trade Associations

The Motor Trade Associations have been extremely active in representing members within the Fair Commission Tribunals, responding and disputing with the various unions to protect the

Super questions

business interests of members. We are now into our sixth year of this award review and applaud the Fair Work Commission to have this be finalized by October 2019.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Please contact Ron Ballucci, Employment and Industrial Relations Manager at the MTAWA. P: 08 9233 9800 GO TO WEBSITE SEND EMAIL

A friend told me that my super isn’t included in my Will. Is this true?

AYour friend is spot on. Unlike your general savings, home and personal effects etc, super is not automatically included in your Will. Therefore, you need to let us know where you want your super to go when you die. To do this you need to nominate a ‘beneficiary’. A beneficiary is a person or persons you would like to receive your ‘death benefit’ when you die. This includes the money you have in your super account when you die plus any insurance cover you might have through your super fund.

Who can be a beneficiary?

You can nominate one or more dependents OR a legal personal representative (generally the executor of your Will) to be your beneficiary/ies.

In super, a dependant is a spouse (legal or de facto), child, or any other person who is financially dependant on you at the time of your death. When nominating a dependent as a beneficiary, you also nominate how much of your death benefit you would like them to receive.

For example, you could leave 60% of your death benefit to your spouse and 20% each to your two kids.

If you nominate a legal personal representative as your beneficiary, it is up to them to distribute your death benefit as instructed in your Will (provided your Will is valid).

How to nominate a beneficiary

There are two ways to nominate a beneficiary: you can make a ‘binding’ nomination or a ‘preferred’ (nonbinding) nomination.

If you make a binding nomination, the fund Trustee must pay your death benefit to your nominated beneficiary/ ies, and in the per cent you specify.

If you make a preferred (non-binding) nomination, the Trustee decides who to pay your death benefit to and what per cent they will receive. While the Trustee is guided by your nomination, it is not obliged to follow it.

However, this doesn’t mean they pay just anyone! Your death benefit must still go to a dependant or legal representative. However, the person or

persons who receive your death benefit may be different from your preferred nomination.

You can make, change, or cancel a preferred nomination at any time via our website.

Binding nominations are valid for three years, after which they need to be renewed.

To make a binding death nomination, you need to complete the Binding Death Benefit Nomination Form (available at our website), have it signed by two witnesses who are not beneficiaries, then send it to us.

With Commissioner for Consumer Protection David Hillyard

A dealer’s guide to a fLAWLESS CONSIgNMENT SALE

Consumer Protection has noticed a significant increase in the number of motor vehicle dealers who intend to engage in consignment selling.

When a motor vehicle dealer sells a motor vehicle on behalf of another person, who is not a dealer or trade owner, it is known as selling by consignment agreement.

Following several recent prosecution outcomes against consignment selling dealers, we want to offer a timely reminder to dealers of the licensing and legal obligations that apply to consignment selling.

All motor vehicle dealer licences have a standard licence condition attached which states ‘the licence holder is not permitted to engage in consignment selling without prior approval from the Commissioner’. For a dealer to be approved to conduct consignment selling they must first apply for that condition to be removed from their relevant dealer licence. You can find the form online at: www.commerce.wa.gov.au/consumerprotection/consignment-selling-vehicles.

A dealer must not accept a vehicle for sale under consignment agreement unless the dealer has opened at least one account designated as a trust account with a prescribed financial institution (bank, building society or credit society). Several legal requirements on the titling of that trust account apply. The trust account name must include the full name of the dealer, the dealer licence number and the term ‘consignment trust account’.

The dealer must appoint a registered company auditor to carry out audits annually. The dealer must inform the Commissioner for Consumer Protection of the details of the trust account and appointed company auditor by way of application form.

You can find the form online at: www.commerce.wa.gov.au/publications/ consignment-trust-account-motor-vehicledealer.

Only once these requirements have been completed can a dealer engage in consignment selling.

key legal obligations

Key legal obligations for dealers engaging in consignment selling include:

• A dealer must not accept a vehicle on consignment unless a consignment agreement is in place which is signed by the consignee and consignor and contains the prescribed terms

and conditions. The Motor Trade Association of WA standard consignment contract meets these requirements.

• A dealer must give the consignor a copy of the consignment agreement (also known as the Vehicle Consignment Contract) immediately after it has been signed.

• Once a buyer is found the dealer can complete the sale in the usual manner with the completion of a contract or agreement for the sale of a vehicle (commonly called a Vehicle Sales Contract).

• Where money is received by a dealer for the sale of a consignment vehicle, the dealer must pay all of the money into the trust account not later than the next day after the day of receipt of the money on which the relevant financial institution is open for business.

• Where a trade-in vehicle is involved in a consignment sale, the dealer is required to pay an amount of money equivalent to the value of that trade-in into the trust account not later than the next day after the day of receipt of the money on which the relevant financial institution is open for business.

• When you sell the vehicle you must pay any total net proceeds to the consignor within two business days of receiving the payment.

• You can then withdraw your commission and any other money necessary from the remaining funds in the trust account to satisfy a debt owed to you by the consignor.

• If you have entered into a consignment agreement but then decide to buy the car from the consignor yourself, terminate the consignment agreement in writing before you do so. You can then complete an Application to Transfer to properly acquire the vehicle into your name.

• The consignment trust account is required to be audited every 12 months by the nominated registered company auditor.

Consumer Protection has noticed some dealers are having difficulty in specific areas, including:

• Correctly balancing the trust account at the end of each month.

• Maintaining proper trust account records.

• Issuing proper receipts for money received.

• Correctly titling the consignment trust account.

• Failing to deposit money from the sale of a vehicle by consignment agreement into the trust account within the required time.

• Where a trade-in vehicle is received as part payment for a vehicle sold by consignment agreement, failing to deposit an amount of money equivalent to the value of the trade-in vehicle into the trust account.

• Allowing bank fees to be withdrawn from the trust account. Those fees must be taken from an account other than the trust account.

• Depositing money into the trust account to prevent it from becoming overdrawn (sometimes known as buffer funds). Only money received from the sale of a vehicle by consignment agreement can be deposited into a trust account.

• Allowing trust accounts to become overdrawn, usually as a result of bank fees being incorrectly withdrawn from the trust account.

• Failing to have variations to the consignment agreement made in writing and signed by both the dealer and the consignor.

prosecutions

Consumer Protection has recently prosecuted some dealers for breaching their consignment obligations. In the first instance, the dealership was fined $70,000, and the sole director fined $30,000, for numerous breaches in relation to the sale of vehicles on consignment. In another case, a dealer was fined $5,500 for entering into a consignment sale arrangement without the permission of the Commissioner.

It is important that you familiarise yourself with all of the relevant sections in the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act 1973 and the Motor Vehicle Dealers (Sales) Regulations 1974 before engaging in any consignment sales. Should you be in any doubt, you may wish to consult a properly qualified legal practitioner. You can also obtain further guidance by contacting Consumer Protection’s Automotive, Marine and Trading Hours Branch on 6251 1404 or email automotive@commerce.wa.gov.au.

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.

Make sure your application is complete before submitting

The Licensing team will no longer be accepting incomplete motor vehicle applications submitted via email, post or in person.

This means that an applicant must now provide Licensing with a complete application in order to obtain a new licence or renew their existing licence.

The Licensing team will assess an application when it first arrives, and, if it is incomplete, the application, along with a covering letter, will be returned to the applicant. The application fee will not be receipted at this time.

Applicants are given adequate time to prepare all their documents and lodge their application with Licensing in plenty of time prior to expiry (eight to 12 weeks).

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.

Renewal reminders –check your inbox, not your post box

The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety 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. Employers are asked to encourage their staff to ensure details are current.

For further information visit www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/LSupdate or change your details at www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/notify.

With MTA WA Division Manager graham Cawley

Q: What is the latest regard

On December 13 2018, the Department of Transport released a proposed update to the Circular to Industry (CI) CI-112C. This ‘update to Frontal Protection Systems (FPS) – Construction Guidelines’ was focused on light vehicles and would be titled CI-112D.

With the Vehicle Safety and Standards division of the Department of Transport (WA) intending to publish this new document on or near January 11 2019, the MTA WA made

urgent contact with senior staff within the Department, who immediately noted the MTA WA’s concerns. An extension was therefore granted to allow the Association to canvas members and develop a response. We wish to thank the Department for this extension.

The proposed update has been reviewed by the relevant MTA WA Committees that would be affected by CI-112D and several issues have been flagged. CI-112D is intended to be retrospective and would apply to all vehicles fitted with an FPS. This would ultimately have a negative effect on consumers, dealers, 4WD accessory retailers and manufacturers.

It would further create confusion for law enforcement and inspection stations, particularly with older models of popular 4WD’s. For instance, the likelihood of an older

Q: Are there further changes to GCM upgrades on registered vehicles?

On December 21 2018, an MTA WA member notified the Association that the Department of Transport had put a stop to any Towing upgrades/Gross Combined Mass (GCM) upgrades to in-service vehicles, i.e. a vehicle that has a number plate.

If you are purchasing a brand-new vehicle that has not yet been registered (e.g. Land Cruiser and Land Cruiser Prado), then you can still have a GCM upgrade that has Federal approval. In the case of a demonstrator vehicle, you can not have it upgraded, as it has already been registered. This is

due to the fact that when a vehicle is licenced for the first time it is federally approved, but any changes subsequent to the vehicle’s registration are handled by the state authority (Department of Transport in WA).

It is not yet clear why the Department has stopped any further application approvals for in-service upgrades to GCM that have Federal approval. That said, the MTA WA will meet with the Department to discuss the change and what can be done about it as this has had a negative effect on both consumers and those

ing bull bar regulations?

Land Cruiser having a compliant FPS is incredibly low and even less likely is the ability to attain a compliant replacement FPS. CI-112D also takes a different approach to the current AS 4876.12002 Motor vehicle frontal protection system and employs UNECE regulation 26 which moves the goal posts for FPS manufacturers.

The proposed update CI-112D changes critical wording from the previous CI-112C, where direction for the construction of FPS employed language such as “by using a bull bar design that” and “it should

not”. This allowed the FPS designer some flexibility depending on the make and model vehicle it was to be fitted to. CI-112D changes the language to “MUST” and in legislation/regulation terms, this means it is noncompliant. What was merely ‘suggested’ one day could be mandated the next. For this reason, we need to ensure that FPS fitted to vehicles using the information that was previously available to manufacturers will not be negatively affected by the changes.

members’ businesses that have been providing this service to consumers.

No option

In essence, consumers have been left with no viable option to tow their heavy caravan or boat. The notion of adopting trucks to tow caravans and boats is simply unfeasible and unrealistic. If legislators make it too difficult to tow a caravan people will stop doing so, resulting in a detrimental effect on tourism, industry, small country towns and the Australian economy. Passenger vehicles have little remaining payload

available and are easily overloaded when fitted with accessories.

If undertaken correctly, GVM and GCM upgrades can make vehicles safer to drive when fully laden. The MTA WA will work rigorously to attempt to remedy this issue and develop a clear path that satisfies the Department and suspension manufacturers alike. A workable solution enables other suspension manufacturers to enter this market, should they choose to invest the capital.

If you would like to discuss this issue further please contact Graham Cawley on 08 9233 9800.

There is also a new focus on what is behind the FPS. The reason for this focus is so far unclear. To our knowledge, there has not been an increase in serious injury or death due to anything that is ‘behind’ the FPS. CI-112D defines dangerous projections by referencing bumper removal and incorporates a new regulation from Europe to explain what would be considered dangerous. This inclusion could affect any FPS that is a bumper replacement and not fitted with a cover under the FPS, which is most of the systems manufactured before 2015.

industry. That said, the good news is that the MTA WA has provided a submission to the Department of Transport highlighting the areas of concern and are committed to working with them to reach a resolution.

The MTA WA would prefer any changes to the current FPS construction guidelines CI-112C and AS 4876.12002 be handled nationally, ensuring consistency across the country.

In short, CI-112D, in its current form, simply cannot work for consumers or

If you would like a copy of the proposed update (CI-112D) and a copy of the MTA WA submission, please contact Graham Cawley on 08 9233 9800

New Centre part of DoT initiatives

The Department of Transport (DoT) has a number of new projects and initiatives up and running which will ensure safer vehicles and improve customer service. DoT is currently working with the Motor Trade Association (MTA) and additional stakeholders on reform discussion papers aimed at updating legislation on selected vehicle modifications that will reinforce and strengthen existing policy and ensure all vehicle modification applications are clear, consistent and safe.

Engine mods

Engine modifications are covered by Road Traffic (Vehicles) Regulations 2014 - Vehicle Standards Bulletin 14, National Code of Practice for Light Vehicle Construction and Modification (VSB 14), which places limits on the engine capacity of the replacement

or modified engine to restrict power. With that code dating back to 1995, many proposed modifications are no longer covered and are in need of inclusion.

Bullbars

Bull bars are also considered vehicle modifications, with their fitment falling under a Circular to Industry (CI) which was last updated in 2005 to include references to the Australian Standard AS 4876.1-2002 Motor Vehicle Frontal Protection Systems Part 1: Road User Protection. The aim of discussions on this topic is not to tighten any requirements but offer clarification and clear guidance on this legislation for compliance officers, manufacturers and the public.

kelmscott Centre

To further evolve its services and improve customer service, DoT

has recently relocated its Vehicle Operations team from its Welshpool Service Centre (now closed) to the refurbished Kelmscott Concept Centre at 34 Gillam Drive, Kelmscott.

As part of the change, the Kelmscott centre is trialing innovative ways of working, including operating as an appointment-only centre specialising in practical driving assessments (PDAs). This trial has been introduced to improve PDA availability and increase customer convenience and choice, with PDAs offered on Saturday mornings as well as extended trading hours on week days. A lessening of administrative requirements for driving assessors now allows them 45 minutes of quality time with a candidate.

To increase DoT’s offerings online – allowing users to access their information anywhere, anytime – DoT

Direct now provides a fleet management functionality.

New online tool

The Fleet Management Online (FMO) tool makes it easy to stay across a large pool of vehicles, providing visibility of fleet vehicle status and inspection requirements, re-generating up-to-date schedules as required, and making it possible to pay fleet schedule accounts online.

It’s already being used and praised, with comments like ‘adding and removing vehicles is a breeze’ and ‘I find using the FMO very easy so have not had to use the guide at all’ submitted from happy customers who appreciate the improved convenience.

These are just a few projects DoT has underway in 2019 to further develop its services and help ensure safer vehicles and drivers in Western Australia.

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