Marinelli Motorsport PR & Media Pty Ltd

Jan 21, 2020	MONASH MOTORSPORT FORMULA SAE TEAM SCORE DOUBLE AUSTRALASIAN VICTORIES
Jan 17, 2020	CAPRICORN RISING STARS APPRENTICE COMPETITION RETURNS FOR 2020
Jan 10, 2020	DAYCO DAVE BACK IN PORSCHE CARRERA CUP AND THE SUPERCAR ENDUROS
Dec 10, 2019	DAYCO APPOINTS MICHAEL WEISS AS PRESIDENT, POWERTRAIN OPERATIONS
Dec 9., 2019	NEW BRAND POSITIONING FOR AUSTRALASIA'S LARGEST AUTOMOTIVE COOPERATIVE - STRONGER WITH CAPRICORN
Dec 4, 2019	DRiV MONROE SPRINGS CYCLE TEAM RAISES $6.3K FOR CHILDRENS' CANCER RESEARCH
Dec 2, 2019	2019 CAPRICORN GALA DINNER AND TRADESHOW EVENTS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER
Nov 27, 2019	MONROE ENGINEERS DEVELOP SUSPENSION FOR NEW NISSAN NAVARA N-TREK WARRIOR
Nov 27, 2019	DAYCO APPOINTS LAURA KOWALCHIK AS CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Nov 26, 2019	DAYCO FURTHER STRENGTHENS ITS SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM
Nov 22, 2019	BURSON AUTO PARTS JOINS FORCES WITH SUMMERNATS 2020
Nov 13, 2019	IMPROVED MEMBER BENEFITS AND BUSINESS EFFICIENCIES WITH CAPRICORN AUTOMOTIVE DIVISION CHANGES
Nov 11, 2019	FRAM FILTERS RACING RANGE - ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE FILTRATION
Nov 8, 2019	BURSON AUTO PARTS STORE MANAGERS' CONFERENCE A MAJOR SUCCESS
Nov 6, 2019	DAYCO APPOINTS TOM TECKLENBURG AS VP OF AFTERMARKET, NORTH AMERICA
Oct 23, 2019	NEW ROTARY WHEEL SERVICE EQUIPMENT RANGE NOW AVAILABLE FROM BURSON EQUIPMENT
Oct 8, 2019	D AYCO TRIPLE IMPACT AT AUSTRALIA'S BIGGEST MOTOR RACING EVENT
Sept 17, 2019	CAPRICORN INSPIRED TO HELP BY MEMBER'S FIGHT WITH PROSTATE CANCER
Sept 13, 2019	TIMING CHAIN KITS JOIN THE VAST DAYCO AFTERMARKET RANGE IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND
Sept 12, 2019	MONROE SUPPORTS A VERY SPECIAL VARIETY BASH ENTRY
Sept 10, 2019	BURSON AUTO PARTS PLAYS ITS PART IN PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
Sept 5, 2019	180 STORES PLUS - BURSON AUTO PARTS NEEDS YOU!

Dayco Australia sponsored Formula SAE Team, Monash Motorsport, has placed 1st overall in both the combustion and electric categories of the Formula SAE Australasian competition, triumphing over 30 teams that took part in the international competition held last December.

As a result of this effort, along with the 2019 achievements of the Monash University of Melbourne based Formula Student Team, the Dayco sponsored team is now the number one ranked Formula Student team in the world for the combustion engine division and third in the electric vehicle division.

This significant milestone follows Monash Motorsport’s first global Formula SAE victory gained last year, while also marking the debut of the team’s third car, a driverless Formula Student variant. This is the first Australian designed and developed Australian Formula Student driverless vehicle. The car’s capabilities were on display at the Formula SAE Australasian competition, gaining significant attention and acclaim.

The Monash Motorsport Formula SAE Team now embarks on their 2020 European campaign, travelling with three cars (combustion, electric and driverless) to Germany, the United Kingdom and Hungary to compete on the world stage.

“We congratulate the dedicated and highly talented Monash Motorsport team on their Australasian competition victory. Dayco is proud to support this team that continue to lead the way in Formula Student car design, reliability and performance,” stated Dayco Australia Sales and Marketing Director, David McClurg.

“We look forward to the new season ahead and to more successes for this great team on the global stage, using several of our engine and thermal management components,” Mr. McClurg added.

Dayco Australia is proud to support the development of this country’s future automotive and motorsport engineers through the company’s extensive motorsport marketing program which includes Supercars, Porsche Carrera Cup, GT and more in 2020.

The Dayco sponsored Monash Motorsport Formula Student team, ranked 1^st in the world in the combustion engine division and third in the electric vehicle division.

Dayco’s 100+ years of experience in drive systems allows us to equip all customer applications around the world with the most effective drive systems to meet customer specific performance requirements. Dayco’s world class global distribution network services the aftermarket industry with a full offering of kits and products to meet each local market’s need. We accomplish this with a dedicated global team that respects one another, shows humility through continuous learning and acts like owners in everything we do. Dayco has more than 40 locations in 22 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the Company's website at www.dayco.com.

January 17, 2020 - CAPRICORN RISING STARS APPRENTICE COMPETITION RETURNS FOR 2020

The Capricorn Rising Stars search for Australasia’s most promising automotive apprentice returns in 2020.

Capricorn Members can nominate their star apprentices online with entries open from February 1 to April 30, 2020 via the competition website - www.capricornrisingstars.com.

Proudly supported by Capricorn Preferred Suppliers Castrol, Repco, AutoMate, The Workshop Whisperer and TaT, this competition is an opportunity for Capricorn Members to recognise, reward and retain their high performing apprentices who show initiative, eagerness to learn and commitment to their careers.

Through the simple act of submitting a nomination, Capricorn Members are encouraging their apprentices and letting them know that they have a bright future ahead of them in the auto industry.

All apprentices nominated receive a certificate recognising their achievement with the top five finalists and overall winner sharing in some amazing prizes. These include an all expenses paid trip to the Vodafone Gold Coast 600, a $1000 Repco Voucher, Workshop Whisperer Leadership Academy training, industry event tickets and much more.

The Capricorn Member who nominates the overall winner doesn’t miss out either, receiving a bonus 150,000 Capricorn Rewards points.

Capricorn Automotive Chief Executive Officer, Bradley Gannon, encouraged Capricorn Members to nominate their apprentice for the benefit of the broader industry. “It is clear we need to come together as an industry to support and retain the young men and women who are the future. The Capricorn Rising Stars program is one simple way our Members can do this, building their relationships with their apprentices to strengthen the industry more broadly.

“We strongly encourage our Members to nominate their apprentices that are displaying outstanding commitment so early in their automotive repair careers,” Mr Gannon stated.

Last year a total of 533 apprentices were nominated by Capricorn Members, outlining the growing popularity and broad industry recognition that this unique automotive aftermarket apprentice-based accolade brings.

Capricorn Members can nominate their star apprentices online from February 1, 2020 to April 30, 2020 at www.capricornrisingstars.com.

Image Links:

Rs2020 and 20201 - Promotional Artwork for the 2020 Capricorn Rising Stars Competition

Dayco, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of engine components for the automotive aftermarket industry, announces the first activities of the company’s 2020 Australian motorsport program.

Dayco Australia has been heavily involved in Australian and international motorsport for over a decade to date, steadily increasing the international company’s exposure through leading racing categories including Supercars, Porsche Carrera Cup and international GT / Sportscar racing.

The new year is no exception as Dayco once again joins forces with long term ambassador and highly experienced Australian racing driver David Russell in both Porsche Carrera Cup and Supercars.

Russell will be joining Matt Stone Racing (MSR) for the three Supercar endurance races, including the inaugural OTR 500 at The Bend in South Australia this September, followed by Australia’s biggest racing event, the Supercheap Bathurst 1000, along with the Vodafone Gold Coast 600 to be held in October.

The Dayco sponsored driver will be competing with highly talented MSR full time Supercar driver and former Super2 Champion driver Garry Jacobson in one of the team’s two ZB Commodores. Russell is not new to MSR, having been recruited to drive for the team at the Bathurst 1000 Super 2 race last season. Dayco Dave also helped secure the team an outstanding 7th overall, 2nd in class and highest placed Audi honours at the 2019 Bathurst 12 Hour Intercontinental GT Championship race last February.

Russell brings more than a decade of Supercar endurance racing experience to MSR, having competed in the Bathurst 1000 with Fernandez Racing and DJR followed by two seasons with Kelly Racing. The Dayco driver has also carried the company’s highly recognisable logo in the Supercar endurance races with Nissan Motorsport across five seasons and with Tickford Racing in 2018. Russell’s Supercar endurance racing career was highlighted by a second-place finish at the 2015 Gold Coast 600 with Rick Kelly.

Russell will also be partnering with fellow Dayco racer and long-term GT driving partner Roger Lago, sharing race events in the Dayco Porsche GT3 Cup Car during the 2020 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Series. Russell will compete at four high profile events in the Pro category and Lago will compete in four events in the Pro-Am category, where he raced to an outright pole position top three championship result in 2019.

Russell also plans to compete in additional Australian and international GT races during 2020 which are currently being negotiated.

For Dayco Vice President - Aftermarket Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw, 2020 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for the company both on and off the track.

“We are delighted to see our ambassador Dave Russell back in Supercars with a team that is renowned for punching well above their weight in this most competitive sport.

“The whole Dayco team locally and internationally were super-impressed with our first Porsche Carrera Cup season last year as this is a car and a series that relates to so many people around the world. To have David joining Roger Lago for an entire season across two categories ensures that Dayco will continue to gain strong coverage.

“Our motorsport involvement speaks directly to the mechanics and enthusiasts who use and recommend our quality aftermarket products. The Dayco product range is set to expand significantly during 2020, so this forms a key part of our marketing strategy, while complementing our company’s global marketing strategies,” Mr Mouw stated.

December 10, 2019 - DAYCO APPOINTS MICHAEL WEISS AS PRESIDENT, POWERTRAIN OPERATIONS

Dayco has announced that Michael Weiss joined the company on December 2, as President, Powertrain Operations, reporting directly to Dayco’s Chief Executive Officer, Joel Wiegert.

“We are very pleased to have such a highly regarded industry executive join Dayco to deliver profitable growth of our powertrain segment,” said Mr. Wiegert. “Michael’s track record of driving operational efficiency and successfully bringing new products into production fit perfectly with the significant opportunities Dayco is capitalizing on in the rapid growth hybrid electric vehicle segment”.

“I’m delighted to join Dayco and be able to lead the powertrain team. The business has a great reputation within the industry, so it’s fantastic to be part of delivering its future growth,” said Mr. Weiss.

Previously Michael was the Vice President & General Manager of Schaeffler Group’s Thermal Management & Water Pump Bearings Division, responsible for 13 manufacturing and R&D centers throughout China, Korea, Mexico, Brazil, India and Europe. Before that he was Managing Director of Atesto, based in Japan, working extensively with Toyota and Honda.

Michael earned a Bachelor’s degree in Automotive Engineering from Munich University of Applied Sciences and a Master of Business Administration degree from Georg-Simon-OHM Management Institute, and is fluent in German, English and French.

Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacture and distribution of essential engine drive systems and aftermarket services for automotive, truck, construction, agriculture and industrial applications.Through our expertise in transferring power quietly and efficiently, Dayco has emerged as the leading global system solutions provider for hybrid electric vehicles. Dayco’s 100+ years of experience in drive systems allows us to equip all customer applications around the world with the most effective drive systems to meet customer specific performance requirements. Dayco’s world class global distribution network services the aftermarket industry with a full offering of kits and products to meet each local market’s need. We accomplish this with a dedicated global team that respects one another, shows humility through continuous learning and acts like owners in everything we do. Dayco has more than 40 locations in 22 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the Company's website at www.dayco.com

December 4, 2019 - DRiV™ MONROE SPRINGS CYCLE TEAM RAISES $6.3K FOR CHILDRENS’ CANCER RESEARCH

Darren Bender and Gareth Jones were joined by friend Duncan Toombs to take part in the “Australian Great Cycle Challenge” which was held in October 2019.

This event is a national Children's Medical Research Institute (CMRI) fundraising initiative held nationwide throughout October.

The DRiV™ Monroe Springs team joined the fight against childhood cancer, which is the largest killer of children in Australia, where over 600 Australian children are diagnosed annually, and three die every week. Raised funds gives children the chance at the brighter future through the search for better treatments and cures.

Team Captain, Darren Bender, a Leading Hand of the Monroe Springs Maintenance Department, led the charge along with Gareth Jones, the Monroe Springs Plant Manager. The team rode a total of 1,362km during October, raising $6.3k.

Across Australia, more than 13,000 riders cycled for more than 2.4 million kilometres during the 2019 event, raising $4.3 million. Over the past six years, a total of 55,774 riders from have ridden over 13 million kilometres, raising $16 million in support of this program.

“We are all very proud of the DRiV Monroe Springs team effort in the 2019 Australian Great Cycle Challenge, which will help save children from this terrible disease” stated Plant Manager, Gareth Jones.

Suggested Caption: DRiV Monroe Springs Australian Great Cycle Challenge Team members Gareth Jones (left) and Darren Bender.

December 9, 2019 - NEW BRAND POSITIONING FOR AUSTRALASIA’S LARGEST AUTOMOTIVE COOPERATIVE - STRONGER WITH CAPRICORN

When 12 Golden Fleece service station owners in Western Australia met to discuss the strengthening of their businesses by working together as a cooperative, they would never have envisaged that nearly five decades later they would be joined by more than 21,000 businesses across Australia and New Zealand who similarly recognised how they could be stronger together.

Capricorn has supported the Australian automotive aftermarket since the 1970s and it has done the same in New Zealand for more than two decades. If it has something to do with moving on wheels, Capricorn has been there, supporting Members to keep those wheels turning and improving their business success and sustainability.

To help their Members’ businesses thrive, Capricorn has introduced a myriad of supports covering access to suppliers and parts, operations and service data as well as financial assistance, business protections and industry networking events. These varied Capricorn services have one common goal – helping to make Members’ businesses stronger.

Protecting each Capricorn Member’s existence as a strong, independent business is foundational to advancing the Australian and the New Zealand automotive aftermarket repair industries as we head towards a technologically disrupted and demanding future.

The time has come to take the strong business relationships that Capricorn has formed with their Members and Preferred Suppliers to the next level of value and support, to make each of them stronger over a long and successful future.

To outline this clearly, a new brand positioning statement has been created that reflects Capricorn’s total commitment to providing services, support and value over the long term to all Capricorn Members and Preferred Suppliers – Stronger with Capricorn.

Stronger with Capricorn is about more than just the strength that Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative has in its numbers. It defines the strength and support that comes with an extensive network that has been designed by automotive repairers for automotive repairers.

Stronger with Capricorn also signifies Capricorn’s strength in growing their Members’ businesses using the vast products and services currently provided, with new support services being constantly developed to meet current and future technological, financial and risk challenges.

Stronger with Capricorn also reflects how this unique and highly effective automotive aftermarket industry-based cooperative supports their Members to face the future positively and with continued business success, regardless of the changes being faced by the industry.

According to Capricorn’s Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, the advantages of being a Capricorn Member have grown far beyond simply making their businesses easier to operate from purely a business transactional point of view.

“While making business easier for our Members is important, Capricorn provides far more than that. Our new brand positioning outlines Capricorn’s unique ability to champion Member business improvement by leveraging our extensive and Member exclusive products and services,” Mr Fraser stated.

“Supporting our Members’ businesses and helping to make them stronger is fundamental to ensuring a positive and sustainable future. Making your business Stronger with Capricorn is without a doubt the major advantage of being a Capricorn Member,” Mr Fraser concluded.

The new Stronger with Capricorn brand positioning will be visible across all Capricorn online and print media advertising along with promotional documentation during 2020. A detailed video has been produced to further outline Capricorn’s new brand positioning statement which can be viewed online at www.capricorn.coop.

December 2, 2019 - 2019 CAPRICORN GALA DINNER & TRADESHOW EVENTS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER

Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, Capricorn, has just concluded its annual Gala Dinner & Tradeshow events across Australia and New Zealand from September to November 2019.

Always a social calendar highlight, this year’s events were held in Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and in Auckland, New Zealand. All events were well received, with almost 5,000 Capricorn Members, Preferred Suppliers and guests taking part.

While the focus of each Capricorn Gala Dinner is to connect Members and Preferred Suppliers who are part of the Capricorn network, the events also provide a well-earned, end of year celebration with food, music and lots of fun for all who attend. The tradeshows also provide Capricorn Members with access to the latest offerings from Capricorn Preferred Suppliers with special offers to take advantage of on the night.

Hundreds of Capricorn Preferred Suppliers took part, with highly impressive tradeshow stands, display cars and interactive activities that kept the emphasis on enjoyment as well as business.

Attendees were given a sneak peek into Capricorn’s future plans for the cooperative to return even greater value to both Members and Preferred Suppliers, further strengthening their businesses in 2020 and beyond.

On the entertainment side, the Capricorn Gala Dinners did not disappoint with the hilarious Lawrence Mooney ensuring total hysterics with his stand-up show across Australia, while in New Zealand, outstanding ventriloquist comedian Darren Carr was a major highlight. Live music at each Capricorn Gala Dinner ensured a great time was had well into the evening.

“It has been a real pleasure to catch up with so many Capricorn Members and Preferred Suppliers throughout Australia and New Zealand, to hear more about their businesses and how Capricorn is supporting their continued growth,” stated Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser.

“The events themselves are a great opportunity for workshops, suppliers and all others involved in the automotive repair industry to come together and make lasting connections. The fact that it’s a great night out with outstanding food and entertainment doesn’t hurt either.” Mr Fraser added.

November 27, 2019 - MONROE ENGINEERS DEVELOP SUSPENSION FOR NEW NISSAN NAVARA N-TREK WARRIOR

One of the world’s leading Original Equipment and aftermarket manufacturers of automotive ride performance products, DRiV™ owned Monroe Shock Absorbers and Monroe Springs have been integrally involved in an Australian engineered Nissan Navara 4WD model variant, the Nissan Navara N-TREK Warrior which was launched in October, 2019.

Premcar is the Melbourne based vehicle engineering company enlisted by Nissan to develop and manufacture the Navara N-TREK Warrior to OEM standards. This specially enhanced Navara model is being assembled at the company’s new 6,300 square-metre production facility located in Epping (VIC).

Monroe Australia’s ride performance product engineers worked together with Premcar to locally design, develop and rigorously test this significantly enhanced suspension system.

Combined with several Warrior model exclusive additions, Nissan now has a formidable competitor in the lucrative Dual-Cab 4WD market, which accounts for 60 per cent of all Utes sold in this country.

The Monroe Australia engineering team developed a new suspension set-up for this top of the range Nissan Navara with dual-rate springs and upgraded premium Rancho dampers that have been designed to improve handling, ride comfort, stability, steering response and ground clearance.

The Nissan Navara N-TREK Warrior is equipped with unique 17-inch wheels, (which are smaller than the N-TREK’s standard 18 inch wheels) to accommodate larger 32.2-inch 275/70 Cooper All Terrain Tyres. These increase the ride height by 25mm and combined with a 15mm lift from the new springs and dampers, ground clearance has been increased by a total of 40mm (to 268mm).

Track has been boosted to 1600mm across both the front and rear, giving the new Nissan Navara N-Trek Warrior an instantly visible taller, wider and tougher stance.

The Navara’s standard dampers were replaced by Monroe Australia specially developed Rancho 4WD shock absorbers that feature a larger outer tube diameter containing greater oil volume for better cooling and rough-road capability.

These locally developed 4WD shock absorbers include a thicker piston rod for increased strength, as can be found in all Monroe TDT Gas Magnum 4x4 and Rancho 4WD replacement shock absorbers, but with the added feature of a Premcar specified internal valve code to match the springs and tyres, including more compression damping for quicker response.

Jointly the Monroe Springs engineers worked closely with Premcar to design, develop and manufacture the front and rear coil springs to achieve the desired, fine-tuned ride performance for Nissan. Building on the experience of over 90 years of designing and manufacturing springs in Australia to OE standards with expertise in both on and off road segments, namely with Rancho, Monroe Springs was integral to meeting the project’s demanding timing and OEM quality standards.

The end result was a softer primary spring rate to improve ride comfort and off-road articulation, coupled with a higher but more progressive secondary rate. This was done to maintain composure and performance for cornering, heavy duty off-roading and for towing.

The upgraded suspension set-up also improves the Navara’s off-road ability without reducing comfort, safety or its 3,500 kilogram towing capacity. The detailed suspension modifications also improve the vehicle’s approach, departure and rampover angles.

Development testing of this locally engineered Nissan Navara model took place on varied road surfaces at the Australian Automotive Research Centre (AARC) and on sandy tracks, gravel roads and rough Mallee terrain between Ouyen in Victoria and Pinnaroo on the South Australian border across several months.

The work that Monroe Australia and Premcar have done to enhance and develop this new model’s exclusive suspension has already gained wide acclaim from the Australian motoring media.

“The high riding Monroe developed suspension has big-bore shock absorbers and taller springs, delivering an extra 40mm of ground clearance and an unmistakably tough stance.” News.com.au

“A longer free-standing spring height achieves the required lift and is a much better way to go for an off-roading 4WD. You don’t want stiff springs as this ain’t no bitumen-bound race car. These are matched up by new dampers made by the same OEM supplier (Monroe).” CarAdvice

“Revised spring rates and damper setting were developed with Adelaide based Monroe to provide an improved progressive rate performance, raising the ability of the suspension to conform to the ground surface and not be subject to bounce, reducing the tyre contact patch pressure and thereby maintaining higher levels of control.” Delivery Magazine

“At the rear, the already (twice, over the years) stiffened up standard Navara coils have come in for their third harden-up session for the Warrior with the Navara’s OE suspension supplier Monroe tasking its Australian engineers with a solution that would improve both on and off-road manners.

“Nissan pulled up short of specifying the high-end, racing-derived by-pass dampers for the Warrior, but did ask Monroe for something matched to the new coils.” Unsealed 4X4 / Pat Callinhan’s 4X4 Adventures

“There is a bespoke spring and damper package, built locally by Monroe. The spring rates are reduced on both axles, both for greater wheel articulation off-road and more balanced handling on-road.” Chasingcars.com.au

"The Navara’s standard dampers were replaced by Monroe shock absorbers with a larger outer tube diameter containing greater oil volume for better cooling and rough-road capability, a thicker piston rod for increased strength and a Premcar-specified internal valve code to match the springs and tyres, including more compression damping for quicker response." Carsales.com.au

According to DRiV South East Asia Pacific Marketing Manager, Brydon Tweddell, this is an outstanding example of the skill and expertise of the Monroe Australia shock absorber and Monroe Springs engineering and manufacturing teams.

“Our engineers worked closely with Premcar to develop a 4WD suspension solution that is unrivalled in the Dual-Cab 4WD market in this country. We are very proud to bring our Australian based engineering and manufacturing expertise to the exciting new Nissan Navara N-TREK Warrior and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to other local development opportunities that come in the future,” Mr Tweddell stated.

“The market has shifted considerably in the last two years with Ute sales leading the way, but Ute buyers are looking for a higher grade with more features that make their vehicle stand out,” said Nissan Australia Managing Director Stephen Lester at the launch of this exciting new addition to Nissan’s Ute range.

“The Nissan Navara N-TREK Warrior is locally designed and engineered for Australian conditions and we expect this to be a strong addition to the Navara line-up,” Mr Lester added.

Dayco announces that Laura Kowalchik joined the company on November 25, as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

“Laura is a highly regarded operational finance leader with significant experience in automotive industries, data analytics and steel. Her breadth of experience in multiple ownership structures, and market conditions, as well as her hands-on-leadership style make her uniquely qualified to drive our financial strategy forward to deliver industry leading financial performance across our business worldwide,” said Joel Wiegert, Dayco’s Chief Executive Officer.

“I am looking forward to working closely with Dayco’s investors and stakeholders,” Kowalchik said. “It is exciting to join the Dayco team during this time of transformation to drive strong discipline around financial results that focus on delivering stakeholder value.”

Laura has served as the CFO for Kenwal Steel Corporation and previously for Urban Science, but her career has also included senior level financial and controller positions with organisations such as Kaydon Corporation, Dura Automotive Systems, Microheat, and Metaldyne Corporation. Laura earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Richmond and a master of business administration degree in finance from Indiana University.

Laura is also active in the community and a member of the Board of Trustees for the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation.

Dayco’s world class global distribution network services the aftermarket industry with a full offering of kits and products to meet each local market’s need. We accomplish this with a dedicated global team that respects one another, shows humility through continuous learning and acts like owners in everything we do.

Dayco has more than 40 locations in 22 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the Company's website at www.dayco.com

Wouter Nijenhuis has joined Dayco, accepting the role of Executive Vice President of OE Sales and Business Development, reporting directly to the company’s CEO, Joel Wiegert.

“This is an exciting time for Dayco as momentum grows from our Original Equipment customers for products that enable hybrid electric systems,” said Mr. Wiegert. “I am delighted Wouter has joined our team. His expertise in electric and internal combustion propulsion solutions, combined with his strong relationship with customers globally makes him an ideal commercial leader to accelerate Dayco’s growth.”

“It is very exciting to join a company with such a rich history, and strong brand, that is now intensely focused on providing innovative hybrid system solutions for our customers,” said Nijenhuis. “I am excited to work with the more than 4,000 talented and passionate Dayco employees to deliver growth through building strong partnerships with our customers around the world.”

Nijenhuis has joined Dayco from Oerlikon/Dana Limited, where he served as the EVP of Global and Aftermarket Sales, Marketing and Business Development, Drive Systems. Prior to this he was the VP Global Engineering, Sales and Program Management at BorgWarner Inc. In this role, he oversaw all sales, engineering and program management activities for the turbo systems segment for commercial and industrial applications.

Fluent in French, German and English, Nijenhuis will direct all aspects of Dayco’s global OE sales, business development, program management and OE marketing functions in order to deliver its organizational strategy and objectives.

Wouter Nijenhuis - Dayco Executive Vice President of OE Sales and Business Development.

Dayco has more than 40 locations in 22 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the Company's website at www.dayco.com

Australia’s Burson Auto Parts is joining forces with one of this country’s most iconic national motoring events, Summernats 2020, which will be held in Canberra from January 2 to 5, 2020.

Established in 1988, the Summernats has become one of the most anticipated events for performance motoring enthusiasts, with almost 2,200 meticulously restored and performance modified vehicles taking part last year. These cars, their owners and a myriad of performance vehicle competition events, DJ’s, bands and much more combine to create four days of automotive summer fun in our nation’s capital.

Burson Auto Parts will make its debut as a major sponsor of the 33rd running of the Summernats and will enjoy a strong brand and activation presence during this four day high performance motoring extravaganza.

One of the event’s largest pavilions will be converted into a complete Burson Auto Parts store. This will ensure that all automotive enthusiasts and mechanics in attendance will have access to a large range of premium quality automotive parts, tools, equipment and accessories on site.

Burson Auto Parts will also be highly visible with event signage and big screen coverage throughout this high octane Australian performance vehicle spectacular that includes more than 40 separate competition based events. These include burnout competitions, horsepower dyno competitions and show’n’shine events to mention just a few.

“The automotive aftermarket industry is always well represented at the Summernats and now with Burson Auto Parts involved as a major sponsor, we take the aftermarket industry’s involvement to an entirely new level,” stated Burson Auto Parts National Sales Manager, Anthony Hughes.

“We are pleased to be taking part in an event which has such incredible support and goodwill from both the automotive trade and performance vehicle enthusiasts. We look forward to welcoming Summernats visitors to our special Summernats store during this bumper four day event,” He added.

The competition events of the 2019 Summernats generated more than 2.1 million live web streaming views and a staggering 13.1 million video content views. The iconic event’s social media reach includes 12.1 million Facebook likes, over 29,000 YouTube subscribers and almost 60,000 Instagram followers.

Burson Auto Parts looks forward to adding another store to its national network from January 2 to 5, 2020 at the Street Machine Summernats in Canberra. To find out more about this event visit www.summernats.com.au.

Suggested Image Caption : Australia’s Burson Auto Parts joins forces with one of the country’s most iconic performance vehicle events, the Summernats, to be held in Canberra from January 2 to 5, 2020.

November 13, 2019 - IMPROVED MEMBER BENEFITS AND BUSINESS EFFICIENCIES WITH CAPRICORN AUTOMOTIVE DIVISION CHANGES

Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, Capricorn, constantly seeks to enhance and improve its services and operational efficiencies to ensure that the cooperative is delivering the best possible outcomes for both its Members along with Capricorn’s Preferred Supplier group.

Since becoming Capricorn Chief Executive Officer Automotive in July 2019, Bradley Gannon has spent time analysing the automotive division’s operations. As a result of this detailed business study, Mr Gannon has announced the following changes that ensures greater efficiencies, enhanced Member services and stronger Preferred Supplier relationships.

Capricorn’s Sales and Supply teams will merge into one business unit, headed by the highly experienced Dale Durden, who has been appointed to the new role of Head of Sales and Supply, Australia. Bringing the leadership of these field teams together provides an even more consistent approach in relation to Capricorn’s interactions with both its Members and Preferred Suppliers.

In line with the new merged sales and supply departments, two newly formed Regional Manager positions have been created. Kelsey Ferguson is the new Regional Manager - North Western, encompassing Western Australia, South Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland.

Neil Richards has been appointed to the role of Regional Manager - South Eastern encompassing Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.

An additional new role has been created to lead and develop Capricorn’s growing Commercial Vehicle division and Ron Bougoure becomes Capricorn’s National Manager – Commercial.

“I am confident that this new structure will help deliver even more benefits to Members, Preferred Suppliers and Capricorn. This is another great example of Capricorn’s commitment to improving its business and maximising our cooperative’s strengths. We look forward to delivering even more efficiencies and improved Member benefits as a direct result of these changes,” stated Mr Bradley Gannon, Capricorn Chief Executive Officer Automotive.

The newly released FRAM Racing Filter range provides maximum performance and durability for performance vehicles on the street along with the demands of racing engines on the track.

Compatible with all engine oil formulations, FRAM Racing Filters combine strength and precision filtration to optimise their performance in the most demanding of high performance and racing conditions.

FRAM Racing filters include a heavy-gauge tapping plate and an extra-thick steel casing to withstand the high pressure flexing caused by demanding driving conditions.

The spiral-shaped center tube in each FRAM Racing Filter provides protection against collapse, along with tough steel end caps that add even more durability. All FRAM Racing Filters also include a screen-over 22psi filter bypass valve that provides additional protection against larger lubricant contaminants.

Used extensively in NASCAR racing across the United States and with applications to fit many classic and current high performance drag racing and circuit racing engines (including the Ford Mustang Coyote 5.0 Litre and GM, Nissan and Honda performance engine applications), the extensive FRAM Racing Filter range offers a premium quality, premium performance and racing engine filtration product option for high performance vehicle technicians and racing teams.

The FRAM Racing filter range coverage includes a wide number of performance engine specifications including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan and Honda engines, including GM LS1 and LS6 applications. (See link to applications list below).

According to Roger Lassen, Filpro Automotive Managing Director, Australasia, the FRAM Racing Filter range complements the brands comprehensive application coverage in Australia and New Zealand.

“We are constantly approached about our high performance and racing specification filtration products due to their long

standing success internationally. We are delighted to make these globally renowned filtration products available to Australian and New Zealand high performance vehicle technicians and racing teams,” Mr Lassen stated.

“The FRAM brand has a long and proud history in racing and we look forward to creating a new chapter in the brand’s high performance success here in Australia and New Zealand,” Mr Lassen added.

The FRAM Racing Filter range and the entire FRAM Filters aftermarket replacement range is available in Australia from official FRAM distributors including ADRAD and SWD. To locate your closest distributor contact Filpro Automotive Australia State Sales Manager Alex Rossiter on 0400 878 837 or 08 8193 9675.

The 2019 Burson Auto Parts Managers’ conference was held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre from October 17 to 20.

A total of 170 Burson Auto Parts store managers joined the Australian company’s executive management team across four days covering a detailed agenda of seminars and activities.

The theme of the conference was “Step Up”, enabling all of the Burson Auto Parts store managers to reflect on the company’s fundamental goals. These include continuing and growing the company’s status as Australia’s preferred trade supplier of automotive parts, tools and equipment by focussing on providing optimum service, value and industry leading supplier product knowledge to the company’s highly valued trade customers.

An undeniable inspiration for the Step Up theme of the conference was the event’s special guest motivational speaker, Contiki Tours founder John Anderson. His story of having started his world leading travel business by taking people on tours of New Zealand driving a Combi-Van, held similarities with Burson Auto Parts coming to life when company co-founder Ron Burgoine started selling automotive parts to mechanics from his car boot.

It wasn’t all training seminars for the Burson Auto Parts store managers during the conference, with team structured physical events also including the company’s own “Survivor” challenge. The Gold Coast’s Movieworld was opened exclusively for a team dinner during the conference, with some managers taking on a few of the wild rides that were operating during this fun Team Burson event. A third social dinner event at the Miami Markets proved very popular, offering a variety of international cuisines in a funky seaside atmosphere.

The Burson Auto Parts managers’ conference concluded with a gala dinner held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre on Sunday October 20. This spectacular event saw the Burson Auto Parts managers join more than 800 of their Bapcor Group company colleagues and supplier attendees in what was a highly enjoyable finale to this highly successful event.

According to Burson Auto Parts National Sales Manager, Anthony Hughes, “Our goal for this conference was to educate, develop and support the company’s greatest asset, our people. Placing our store managers together with our suppliers and many like-minded company colleagues, the conference proved to be an excellent training and networking opportunity for all who took part.”

“We believe that this annual event and our 2IC Conference held last year, combined with all of the training initiatives that we continuously provide, positions Burson Auto Parts and Bapcor as employers of choice in the automotive aftermarket,” Mr Hughes added.

This conference is just one part of the Burson Auto Parts’ ongoing commitment to ensuring that this company nurtures and develops its people in a team orientated, cooperative and highly supportive manner. This contributes significantly to the Australian company’s ability to retain and attract the industry’s best talent, offering career ascension opportunities not only through the ever growing Burson Auto Parts store network, but through Australia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, Bapcor Limited.

Team - 170 Burson Auto Parts store managers were joined by the Australian company’s executive management team and guest speakers at the 2019 “Step Up” Burson Auto Parts Managers’ Conference held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre from October 17 to 20.

Conf - The Burson Auto Parts Managers’ Conference included team-building physical activities held in Australia’s playground

Bapgala – After social events on each evening of the conference, the event concluded with a gala dinner that saw the Burson Auto Parts managers join more than 800 of their Bapcor Group company colleagues and supplier attendees.

November 6, 2019 - DAYCO APPOINTS TOM TECKLENBURG AS VP OF AFTERMARKET, NORTH AMERICA

Dayco, a leading engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, has appointed Tom Tecklenburg as its Vice President of Aftermarket for North America, reporting directly to Bruno Vallillo, President of Global Aftermarket.

Located at the company’s Troy office, Tom will be responsible for establishing the strategic plan and leading the North American Aftermarket team, which encompasses the United States (US) and Canadian markets, to increase customer satisfaction and drive growth.

Tom brings with him 30 years of automotive and commercial vehicle experience across both the original equipment manufacturer and aftermarket sectors, with his most recent previous role at HDA Truck Pride, where he held the position of Chief Commercial Officer for the US, Canada and Europe. He has also worked for The Timken Company, Honeywell International and Fram.

“I’m excited to have Tom onboard,” said Bruno Vallillo. “With his experience and the great team in North America, we can accelerate the growth of the business, while also improving customer satisfaction.”

“I look forward to the opportunity at Dayco to lead the aftermarket team and leverage the heritage, strong OE position to drive continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.” said Tecklenburg.

Earning a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from The Ohio State University and a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Dayton, Tom also holds an Automotive Aftermarket Professional (AAP) certificate from the University of the Aftermarket.

Through our expertise in transferring power quietly and efficiently, Dayco has emerged as the leading global system solutions provider for hybrid electric vehicles. Dayco’s 100+ years of experience in drive systems allows us to equip all customer applications around the world with the most effective drive systems to meet customer specific performance requirements. Dayco’s world class global distribution network services the aftermarket industry with a full offering of kits and products to meet each local market’s need. We accomplish this with a dedicated global team that respects one another, shows humility through continuous learning and acts like owners in everything we do.

Dayco has more than 40 locations in 22 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the company's website at www.dayco.com.

Suggested Image Caption: Tom Tecklenburg brings 30 years of automotive and commercial vehicle experience across both the original equipment manufacturer and aftermarket sectors to his new role of Dayco Aftermarket Vice President, North America.

October 23, 2019 - NEW ROTARY WHEEL SERVICE EQUIPMENT RANGE NOW AVAILABLE FROM BURSON EQUIPMENT

One of Australia’s leading automotive workshop equipment suppliers, Burson Equipment, exclusively offers automotive repairers a totally new level of wheel service equipment excellence with the new Rotary wheel service equipment range.

The new Rotary wheel service equipment range brings the world’s latest technology, build quality and productivity boosting wheel service products to Australia’s automotive repairers and wheel / tyre specialists.

Rotary has forged a well-earned reputation for total quality across the decades with its unparalleled range of outstanding lift products, making it the world’s most trusted in that field. The same dedication to total quality, reliability and industry leading technology can be found with the Rotary wheel service product range of wheel balancers, tyre changers and alignment systems from Burson Equipment.

The Rotary wheel balancer range offers a balancer for the vast majority of wheels and workshops from the smallest to the largest. The Rotary tyre changer range is one of the most comprehensive in the industry and the company’s premium quality wheel alignment machines allow technicians to complete accurate alignments in as little as 15 minutes, ensuring significant increases in workshop productivity and profitability.

Manufactured in Italy, Burson Equipment’s outstanding new Rotary wheel service equipment range includes:

According to Burson Equipment National Sales Manager, Jim Santef, there is no doubt that the new Rotary wheel service equipment range represents an entirely new level of wheel servicing efficiency and productivity for Australian automotive repairers and wheel / tyre specialists seeking to future proof their businesses.

“The most successful automotive workshop owners and managers are not just seeking replacement wheel service equipment, they are seeking an investment towards the long term future success of their businesses. Our new Rotary wheel service equipment range offers the latest technology along with the peace of mind of many years reliable service,” Mr Santef stated.

To find out more and to take a closer look at Burson Equipment’s new range of industry leading Rotary wheel service equipment products, contact your local Burson store by calling 1300 287 766 or visit Burson Equipment online.

October 8, 2019 - DAYCO TRIPLE IMPACT AT AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST MOTOR RACING EVENT THIS WEEKEND

Dayco, a world leading engine components and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, will be seen across three major motorsport categories at Australia’s most famous motor racing event, the 2019 Bathurst 1000 to be held this weekend (October 10 to 13) at Mount Panorama.

Dayco’s premium event and television coverage during 2019 continues with the Bathurst debut of the Monster Energy Tickford Racing Ford Mustang driven by Cameron Waters. The Dayco sponsored driver is currently 5^th in the Supercar Championship and has gained six podium finishes so far this season in his striking matt black Mustang.

Long term Dayco Ambassador David Russell returns to Supercars at the Mountain this weekend as well, joining forces with Matt Stone Racing (MSR) and Sherrin Rentals in the Dunlop Super2 Series 250 kilometre Bathurst endurance race to be held on Saturday October 12. This weekend’s Super2 race at Bathurst will reunite the driver (Russell) and sponsor (Sherrin Rentals) that debuted at Mount Panorama together a decade ago.

Since then, “Dayco Dave” Russell has gone on to forge a successful career as an endurance racing specialist both in Australia and internationally, bringing an enviable Super2 Series pedigree to this weekend’s nationally televised Bathurst Super2 race.

In 2010 Russell raced to his first Supercar pole position and scored both race wins in a clean sweep of the Bathurst Super2 Series round, following that up with second at the Bathurst Super2 Series round in 2011. Russell has qualified and finished in the top three in all of his Super2 Series races at Mount Panorama during his career.

Along with his Super2 Series / DVS experience, Russell celebrated a decade of main series Bathurst Supercar endurance co-driver racing last season, having competed there with Fernandez Racing (1 season), Kelly Racing (2 seasons), Nissan Motorsport (5 seasons) and last season with Tickford Racing. Dayco has proudly been a part of the last seven Bathurst campaigns with Russell.

The third high profile Dayco motorsport marketing platform for Australia’s biggest motor racing weekend is the debut of the Dayco Carrera Cup Porsche at Mount Panorama in the hands of Tag Heuer Pro-Am Championship leader Roger Lago.

Lago has enjoyed an outstanding Porsche Carrera Cup season which has included the first outright Pole position for a Pro-Am driver, three race wins and consistent top five performances to keep him within grasp of the Tag Heuer Pro Am title in this penultimate round of the 2019 Championship.

According to Matt Stone, MSR Team Principal, “It’s good to have David Russell back in the team. We ran together in the 12 hour at start of year and it’s good to be able to continue the relationship in Super2. We have competed against Russell in Super2 for years so are well aware of his abilities and what he will bring.”

“I have had some great Super2 races at Bathurst and together with such a strong team, I am looking forward to a very strong race this weekend,” David Russell said.

For Dayco Asia Pacific Vice President- Aftermarket, Arnold Mouw, the company is delighted to have such a strong presence at this major Australian motor racing event.

“It will be impossible to miss the Dayco brand message at Bathurst this year – that’s for sure! We have progressively grown our involvement in Australian and international motorsport each year together with our ambassador, David Russell, and we are delighted to see him back behind the wheel of a Supercar this year at Mount Panorama.

“Together with Roger Lago in his stunning Carrera Cup Porsche and Cameron Waters in his Tickford Racing Mustang, we have an enviable presence at this event which is as big as it gets in this country, while also being an event that gains incredible Asia Pacific and global coverage as well,“ Mr Mouw stated.

“I wish all of our drivers and teams a safe and highly successful weekend at Bathurst,” He added.

September 17, 2019 - CAPRICORN INSPIRED TO HELP BY MEMBER’S FIGHT WITH PROSTATE CANCER

There are more than 20,000 very important reasons why Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, Capricorn, has made a dedicated effort to accept donations to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

Following the highly successful Capricorn Cares Farmer’s Drought fundraising initiative conducted last year, Capricorn is dedicating this year’s Capricorn Cares effort to increase awareness and collect donations from its vast Member base towards Prostate cancer research.

Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Australia, affecting one in seven men. One of those 20,000 plus men diagnosed last year was Capricorn Member, John Spicer from John Spicer’s Mechanical Repairs in NSW. Like many men, John never thought about Prostate Cancer until a routine blood test revealed that he was suffering from it.

“I never thought about prostate cancer at all, but I needed to get my Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) and cholesterol tested every year as part of my medicals needed for my speedway racing. And it was this very simple blood test that showed something was going on” John said.

The impact of the disease made it clear, it’s not just a men’s cancer. It’s a family’s cancer that impacts wives, children, mothers, fathers and friends too.

“My four adult children were extremely shocked and wanted to help out in any way they could. I was initially diagnosed in September last year and I was ok until I had my first radiation treatment. I came back to the office and it hit me - I have cancer.

“My wife took over running the business with a friend to keep our customers happy so I could rest after treatment every day. But I found that I really couldn’t leave the business full time as I had to still do the rego checks and vehicle diagnosing,” John said.

John was more fortunate than most. By getting the simple PSA blood test every year, he was able to catch the disease early. And while he’s not out of the woods just yet, it’s clear that getting tested has significantly increased his chances of making a full recovery.

“By the time symptoms show, that usually means it’s too late. I’m not “all clear” at the moment, but after treatment my PSA levels have halved.

“I want to retire in a few years and enjoy travelling and fishing with my wife. But that wouldn’t be possible without getting tested. I can’t stress it enough. Early detection is a must. Just do it.” John said.

September is prostate cancer awareness month in Australia and New Zealand, making it an apt time for this very special Capricorn Cares awareness and fundraising campaign.

For the sake of your wives, your children, your friends and the other people in your life, ask your doctor for a PSA blood test this month. Even if your doctor says you don’t fit the likely profile, getting tested early is the best way to track changes in your PSA levels in the future, that can indicate the presence of the disease.

The Capricorn Cares fundraising campaign is accepting donations to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. To donate, Members should login to capricorn.coop and complete the donation form.

All donations are entirely tax deductible and 100% of all funds raised from this Capricorn Cares campaign in Australia will go directly to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.

• In Australia and New Zealand, Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men.

• More than 20,000 men are diagnosed with Prostate cancer in Australia and New Zealand every year.

• Studies have shown high fat diets and the consumption of processed meats and alcohol can also increase the risks of cancer.

The Prostate Specific Antigen Test (PSA Test) is a simple blood test and the most common screening tool for the early detection of Prostate cancer. It might be the most important test you’ll ever do, but the reality is, too many men put it off until it’s too late.

September 13, 2019 - TIMING CHAIN KITS JOIN THE VAST DAYCO AFTERMARKET RANGE IN AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Dayco, a leading engine components and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, introduces a new range of premium quality Timing Chain Kits to the company’s vast Australasian automotive aftermarket product range.

This new range of direct-fit Dayco Timing Chain Kits bring the benefits of the company’s world class design and engineering expertise in toothed belt power transmission systems along with Dayco’s in-depth knowledge of functional requirements.

Combining this expertise with the total quality and reliability hallmarks of the Dayco brand, ensures that automotive repairers and parts re-sellers across Australia and New Zealand can offer technicians outstanding quality replacement Dayco Timing Chain Kits to suit a wide range of popular local, Asian and European vehicle makes and models.

In designing the new Dayco Timing Chain kits, a system logic was followed, to ensure that all of the elements required for replacement, that is; the chain, hydraulic tensioner, sprockets and guides are included with every kit. Additionally, Dayco has guaranteed that all elements of each Timing Chain Kit comply with the technical requirements of each single component. This provides maximum functionality, silence in operation and promotes longer transmission life.

The main advantages of the new Dayco Timing Chain Kit range include:

To find out more about the new Dayco Timing Chain Kit range visit www.dayco.com, call Dayco Australia customer service - 03 9794 4466 or contact your Dayco Distributor.

Suggested Caption: A new range of premium quality Timing Chain Kits have been added to Dayco’s vast Australasian automotive aftermarket product range.

Monroe Australia has supported three decade veteran team member, Michael Kelly, on his very special South Australian Variety Bash car rally entry in 2019.

Sadly, Michael lost his wife Ann to pancreatic cancer in July. He met Ann at Monroe Australia and enjoyed a loving 33 year relationship together. In discussing how he could do something to help get over the terrible loss of his wife and best friend, Michael and a group of his friends registered to enter the 2019 South Australia Variety Bash.

The Variety Bash car rallies are held across Australia each year as a fun way to raise money for children in need using low value older cars, many decorated in elaborately fun liveries to take part. Competitors collect donations prior to the event and during it from each town that they visit, while special fund raising events are also held along the journey.

Monroe Australia was delighted to join their loyal team member on his Variety Bash entry, which saw his trusty 1992 Ford XF Falcon Ute rolled out of the shed and fully worked over to complete the grueling 4,875 kilometre, mainly dirt road, seven day charity event which was conducted from August 10 to August 17 this year.

Michael chose an apt team name, “Galahs in a Falcon”, which is in keeping with the light-hearted and fun nature of each Variety Bash.

As Michael says, “Galahs is the best word to describe the characters of everyone who took part and the kids along the Variety Bash rally route loved it too.”

Monroe provided sponsorship support to the Galahs in a Falcon SA Variety Bash Team and ensured that the suspension of the XF Falcon Ute was at optimum ride performance quality for this event with a set of Australian designed and manufactured Monroe Heavy Duty shock absorbers.

Michael and his team of Galahs conducted meat raffles and sausage sizzles to increase the funds raised by being a part of this event, along with contributions from Monroe Australia and other generous sponsors, that resulted in an outstanding total amount raised of $22,130.

The 94 teams that took part in this year’s South Australian Variety Bash raised a staggering total of $1.94 million that finds its way directly to varied children’s charities across the state.

“I am very proud to be a part of the Monroe Australia team for more than 30 years now, so it is wonderful to have my employer aboard to help raise funds for Variety – Australia’s Childrens Charity. We have done a great thing to help Aussie kids and I’m already thinking about the next one,” Michael stated.

“We had an incredible time over the week and the Monroe Heavy Duty shocks didn’t miss a beat throughout the bash. After leaving Codan (SA) we drove as far north as Cameron’s Hill in Queensland and then continued on mainly dirt roads to Murray Bridge across seven wonderful days.

“I had to deal with overheating issues throughout the bash and had a breakdown enroute that we sorted out. The undercarriage of the car took a major beating, and amazingly the left rear shock absorber had two major dents in it but still worked perfectly to the end – true Monroe Australian manufacturing quality right there!,” Michael said.

According to Brydon Tweddell, Monroe Marketing Manager, “We are very pleased to have taken part in such a worthy and fun natured motoring event. It was also great to support our team member Michael Kelly who has taken the initiative to do something very positive for others following such a major personal loss. The amount of money he and his team raised for children’s charities was incredible as was the result of the entire South Australian Variety Bash.”

September 10, 2019 - BURSON AUTO PARTS PLAYS ITS PART IN PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

Australia’s preferred trade supplier of automotive parts, tools and equipment is playing its part to protect the environment through parent company Bapcor Limited’s partnership with Greenfleet.

Greenfleet is a leading environmental not for profit organisation that seeks to protect our climate by restoring forests through carbon offsets and donations. This outstanding Australian organisation has restored more than 500 native bio-diverse forests since 1997, planting more than 9.2 million native trees across both Australia and New Zealand.

Burson Auto Parts’ fleet of almost 1,000 vehicles across the country are carbon offset through Greenfleet, forming one of several major carbon offset initiatives being made across the immense Bapcor group of automotive aftermarket companies.

Burson Auto Parts is also taking part in a tree planting program that contributes to offsetting the carbon emissions of its national vehicle fleet, an integral part of Bapcor’s Greenfleet commitment that contributes to the planting of new bio-diversive forests in Australia.

In fact, Bapcor’s contribution to date will assist in vegetating an area covering more than nine times the size of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

According to Bapcor Chief Executive Officer, Darryl Abotomey, “We are delighted to be partnering with Greenfleet to support native Australian local reforestation projects that provide a wide range of environmental benefits.

“Our partnership with Greenfleet forms part of Bapcor’s strategic commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and taking action on environmental sustainability,” he added.

Sustainability is an important part of this Australian owned company’s growth strategy. Both Burson Auto Parts and the entire Bapcor Group are proud to be taking effective and directly measurable action through their partnership with Greenfleet.

This media release initially was distributed to promote Australia’s Burson Auto Parts reaching the milestone of the company’s 180^th store. Such is the pace of Burson Auto Parts’ national store network growth that the total is now in fact 183 stores and growing each week.

These stores cannot best serve Australia’s automotive trade without great teams of people at the counter, on the phones and on the road - so now more than ever, opportunities exist to commence, continue, or a make a career change that has exciting future prospects with Burson Auto Parts and its parent company, the immense Bapcor Group.

A total of 11 new Burson Auto Parts stores were added to the company’s national network in 2019, forming part of almost 60 new Bapcor Group sites that were added to the Australian automotive aftermarket company’s unparalleled national footprint over the past 12 months.

This strategic growth is providing local employment opportunities ranging from store staff, delivery drivers and local store management, with the company’s size and growth also providing exciting long term career ascension opportunities across regional zone management, category management and executive management levels.

The 180^th Burson Auto Parts store to open its doors was the Murwillumbah store, located in north eastern New South Wales. This branch, along with a further four new sites in the region, has grown Burson Auto Parts’ footprint in the state significantly. Store 181 was Mansfield (QLD), Store 182 is the Emerald (QLD) store and the 183^rd Burson Auto Parts store is located in Wangaratta (VIC).

According to Craig Magill, Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager, “Our targeted growth continues to ensure that we provide fast, reliable and geographically convenient service to our loyal trade customers across the country - which is always our primary focus.

“Our growth also makes this the right time for people involved in the automotive aftermarket industry, or people seeking a start in this industry, to join us as we continue our unprecedented expansion in line with all of the automotive trade and retail companies that are a part of the Bapcor Group,” Mr Magill stated.

To find out more about Burson Auto Parts and the career opportunities that are available with this proudly Australian owned and operated company, visit www.burson.com.au.

/ends.

Suggested Caption: Burson Auto Parts has now reached more than 180 stores nationwide and is continuing to grow. Now is the right time to join the Australian company as it continues its unprecedented expansion. 180^th Burson Auto Parts store (Murwillumbah NSW) crew members pictured.