Repairer Russ Hill has been out talking to the 'new kids on the block' on the Gold Coast. Here's his report.
Over the past 12-18 months the faces of the Gold Coast have changed like never before, out with the old and in with the new.
The enthusiasm this next generation have bought to our industry is amazing, as Sam Street found on the recent visit to the area.
Great to see that two of the three 2012 awards recipients for best panel shops in QLD are Gold Coast shops.
I went asked 10 questiosn to 10 of the new/owner managers on the Gold Coast:
Glen Harvey - HHarvey Prestige
Jeff Cunningham- Coomera Smash Repairs
Cory Wells- Wells Body Works
Leesa O’Donnell Harbourtown Smash Repairs
Micheal Ralph- East Coast Refinishes
Mark Hill - The River Group
Chris Gosney - Mark McHugh’s
How long have you been in the trade?
In every instance the managers had started in the trade after finishing their education. Glen Harvey was the late starter at 24. He joked that his father wouldn’t let him in the industry Smart man that Heyden Harvey.
When did you have aspirations to become an owner or manager?
Most said it was early on in their apprenticship, Ralph reckoned he was born to lead , Gosney probably got there a little ahead of time at 24 and loves it. All had or have a good mentor to assist them and aren’t scared to ask, even with multi million business hats on, they all know there’s more to learn.
How long have you been an owner/manager?
All under two years, but a few like Cunningham, Ralph and Hill had previous experience in shop management at other Gold Coast shops business. All had an apprenticeship of sorts at shop management prior to their current roles.
What didn't you anticipate?
Cash flow, paper trails, staff, customers, parts suppliers. They all freely admitted there had been days when they wondered how their previous bosses had dealt with it all, or why. All of these 'new kids' has a greater appreciation of the need to communicate at every level.
What’s the best part of the new role?
Hill likes the short hours, Gosney likes the challenge, Ralph loves his customer base (he’s repairing caravans) Harvey still gets a buzz out of seeing a happy customer at delivery time.
What’s the worst part of the new role?
Andswers ranged from dealing with the unknown, staff sickies, incorrect parts supply. The constant juggle to meet both the insurance companies' and vehicle owners' expectations, whilst maintaining a sustainable business. O'Donnell doesn't like working on Saturday mornings with a hangover.
What would you change if you were in charge of the industry?
Improving the relationship with the insurers was the number one answer. They cited the time taken to process information, the seemingly constant stream of information required to satisfy insurance company needs, and the general mistrust that has been highlighted recently. All would like to see a magic wand waved over that issue.
Are you ready for E-MTA times?
The owners that attend the industry meetings were looking forward to it and praised industry leaders for creating this option. A few shops were not so well informed and couldn’t answer that one.
Are you ready for waterbourne paints?
A general acknowledgement that its the way of the future, four of the seven shops run water anyway, two only paint solid colours and the other one will deal with it when it’s required.
Are you ready for the super shops/groups?
The Gold Coast we have had the Super shops/groups here for some time these shops have adapted. The River Group and East Coast Refinishers changed to repairing commerical vehicles, HHarvey’s Prestige and Mark McHughs specialise in prestige , while Coomera Smash and Harbourtown Smash and Wells Smash Repairs successfully look after the local population with plenty of repeat business.
Cory and Amy Wells of Wells Smash Repair
