VACC wowed its members with a stunning night to remember at its centenary awards dinner at the Crown Pavillion in Melbourne on Saturday 23 June.
Over 1000 guests sparkled in their black tie attire (one guest even had a sequinned evening jacket) as the organisation celebrated 100 years of helping members. An excellent movie looking back on 100 years was shown on the enormous screen. Speeches we made made by VACC president Tony Sanchez and a closing speech by executive director Geoff Gwilym. The evening's MC was Mike Munroe AM, and there was entertainment from Kate Ceberano AM. Members I talked to were extremely impressed with the evening and it was great to catch up with some of the body repairers attending.
Thirty-two elite automotive businesses from across the state were been announced as winners at the 2018 VACC Industry Awards.
“High standards are important to the automotive industry, so the VACC Industry Awards were initiated to recognise and promote those businesses who reach high, and attain and sustain business excellence,” said Gwilym.
Awards in 35 categories were contested this year by elite businesses across Victoria and included achievement in mechanical and body repairs; car, motorcycle, commercial vehicle, and farm machinery sales; tyre retailing; service station and convenience store operations; auto recycling; towing; engine reconditioning; parts and component manufacturing; and aftermarket and retail business operations.
New to 2018 are awards for excellence in vehicle restoration and the Unsung Hero category.
A record number of applications was received for the 2018 VACC Industry Awards. All were assessed by a panel of judges, whose decisions were audited by an independent standards representative. Customer service, training, occupational health and safety, environmental compliance, and more were assessed.
"VACC acknowledges the high calibre of all applications. In the face of strong competition, Victorian motorists can be assured that any business winning a VACC Industry Award this year is a genuinely great business. VACC congratulates each of them,” Gwilym said.
Best Body Repairer passenger vehicle small
Essendon Panels
Best Body Repairer passenger vehicle large
Tie - Sheen Panel Service Bayswater and Bulleen
Best Commerical Vehcile Body Repairer
Royans Melbourne
Best Restoration Project (body)
CAARS Smash Repairs