Judging got off to a great start in Queensland last week.
We kicked of with Gold Coast Collision Centre. These guys haven't been in the awards mix for a while. We remember when this was a boutique shop and Megan and Dan Leishman were nervous about taking on the factory next to them. Hard to credit when you see the size of their business now - looks like they might eventually take over the whole street. We were really impressed with the operation and what a happy team - they have created a great workplace culture there.
Next up was Miami Smash Repairs, part of the Western General Bodyworks Group. There's impressive kerb appeal here and they have an impressive array of OEM approvals including Porsche, Tesla, BMW and Xpeng. It's always been an awkward workshop layout but the location is great for its upmarket customers in this predominantly residential area. Great customer facilities.
Then it was off to Harvey Accident Repairs aka HAR. Glen Harvey was at HHarvey Prestige for many years. He decided to branch out on his own at his dad's original shop. It's a great space and he's put plenty of blood, sweat and tears into the shop to bring it up to his demanding standards. Clean, uncluttered, well organised and well equipped - a pleasure to view.
We were in for a treat with our next stop. Muscle Car Restorations is a relatively new undertaking. Owner Anton Duval was a tiler and was persuaded by his wife, a former interior designer to embrace his passion and set the business up. And they are killing it. Plenty of work and plenty of trophies, plus write ups in Street Machine. They even have an apprentice which is not that common in restoration shops. Very tidy operation producing great work.
HHarvey Prestige is always a pleasure to visit. Now part of the AMA Group it has retained its high fit out and has an enthusiastic and talented team on board. We were pleased to see the swimming pool is still there - the only shop we know about that has one. Manager Gary Coop is knowledgable and passionate about his motors. Plenty of racing Porsches in various stages of repair as well as Mercedes Benz and Tesla. The smaller workshop is being worked on as a Tesla dedicated space.
We finished the day delightfully at Parker Auto Refinishers. Another relatively new set up - this husband and wife team started small but almost immediately outgrew the premises. They have an enviable reputation for their work and customer focus. Another unit has become available to them so they will be able to expand and increase production. Great to meet such dedicated hardworking folk that are committed to excellence.
Day two kicked off with a deep dive into Aussie Hail. This massive factory has some innovative equipment. Hail repairers are a clever lot and Aussie Hail is no exception with custom made tools and equipment - which can all be transported at an instant if a 'big one' hits. Thanks to Justin Dunglison for showing us around and giving us such a clear insight into the business.
Hadwens Prestige Collision Repair was neat and uber organised. There's an inclusive team culture here with everyone working together to achieve targets. While it could do with an update in reception, there's going to be a total revamp of the whole shop soon - so reception might not even be where it is. It was great to see so much enthusiasm and team coherence.
Drive Accident Solutions was its usual impressive self. There is a young, hungry management team that are uber enthusiastic and clearly loving being integral to the business. This is Tesla city and they really do specialise in electric vehicles although they don't freeze out the ICE pack. Amazing customer reception with barista coffee station, huge, well equipped workshop and detailing area, plenty of onsite parking and very well organised.
Drive Group was next in Eagle Farm. The shop is really very nice indeed. It's clean with a well thought out production flow and an engaged team. Equipment is top notch and it was good to see PPE compliance. Yes it's a 'chain' but each site has its own 'vibe' and different layout for all the corporate branding. Happy crew were doing what they do calmly and efficiently. Oh and thanks for the pastries guys - UNREAL!
