The VACC has announced the election of its new executive board following a comprehensive member ballot.
The election marks another significant milestone in the organisation’s distinguished 106-year history of industry advocacy and leadership in Victoria’s automotive sector.
VACC CEO Geoff Gwilym said, “This year VACC celebrates its 106th year of industry advocacy, with an organisation proudly led by a new Board dedicated to the VACC’s charter and delivering on its member promise."
VACC welcomes its new President, and Executive Board Chairman Mr Craig Beruldsen from the Towing Operators Industry Division and business owner of Mel Schmidt Panel Works in Mildura. Elected Vice Chairman is Paul Bertoli from the Farm and Industrial Machinery Dealers Association and owner of Bertoli Farm Machinery in Shepparton. The new VACC Secretary is Matt Jones from the Motorcycle Industry Division who operates Matt Jones Motorcycles in Melton.
The newly elected Board brings together a diverse range of automotive industry expertise, comprising:
- President & Executive Board Chairman: Craig Beruldsen (Mel Schmidt Panel Works)
- Vice Chairman: Paul Bertoli (Bertoli Farm Machinery)
- Secretary: Matt Jones (Matt Jones Motorcycles)
Executive Board members:
- Chris Hummer (Dynamic Wheel Co.)
- Michael Grubb (Specialist Auto Cambridge, TAS)
- Sid Cetindag (Brighton Toyota & Lexus Of Brighton)
- Paul Hopper (Werribee Hyundai)
- Carly Ruggeri (Europanels EP Pty Ltd)*
- Anthony Schache (Horsham Auto Electrical Pty Ltd)*
The Board’s composition reflects the breadth of Victoria and Tasmania’s automotive industry. The addition of first-time Board members Anthony Schache and Carly Ruggeri brings fresh perspectives and demonstrates VACC’s commitment to evolving with the industry.
On receiving the support of fellow Board members, VACC’s new President Beruldsen said, “It’s a pleasure and an honour to lead Victoria’s most prominent and dedicated automotive industry association. My task ahead will be to work closely with the Board and the CEO to ensure VACC continues to be a strong advocate for the industry and its 5,000 business owner members.
There are many challenges ahead, including the transition to an electric vehicle fleet and the skills required to keep the vehicle fleet moving. Engaging with government will be central to VACC’s role and this includes working closely with the national automotive body MTAA, to ensure we get outcomes, both at a state and a national level.”
The new Board takes office at a pivotal time for Victoria and Tasmania’s automotive industry, as it navigates significant technological transitions, workforce development challenges, and evolving consumer expectations. VACC’s leadership will be instrumental in guiding members through these changes while maintaining the high standards of service and professionalism that have characterised the industry for over a century.
The Board’s immediate priorities include strengthening industry training pathways, advocating for sustainable business practices, and ensuring member businesses are well-positioned to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex automotive landscape.