In the Far North Queensland motorsport scene, there are very few names that are known to everyone. One of those is Hunter Automotive. A long-standing mechanic business run by brothers Glen and Cliff Hunter, Hunter Automotive pride themselves on providing reliable maintenance of vehicles but enjoy cutting loose at the track on weekends. Motor Trader caught up with Glen at the Cairns workshop for a chat and to take a tour of the facility.

Words & photos: Lara Wilde

Tell us about the products and services offered by Hunter Automotive?

GH: Hunter Automotive is a mechanic business that offers general mechanic repairs and maintenance including logbook servicing, brakes, clutches, suspension, gearbox and differential overhauls. We also provide specialist performance repairs, dyno tuning, ECU remapping, petrol injector cleaning and diagnostics.

How long have you been established in Cairns?

GH: Cliff and I established Hunter Automotive in 1996. It started with just us but over the last 23 years the team has grown to seven in total.

What is your background in the industry?

GH: I started pumping petrol at the petrol station when I was 13 years old. That led to an apprenticeship which I completed in 1988 and I was awarded apprentice of the year. I went from the service station to the council apprenticeship and then to a Toyota dealership. When an opportunity arose for my brother and me to create a business, Hunter Automotive was established. It started from a small shed before we moved next door to a slightly larger shed. In 2003 we purchased our own premises which we are still operating out of today.

Are you still hands on in the business today?

GH: Cliff and I still work on the tools in the workshop everyday as well as providing administration management and running our team of mechanics.

Who is in your current team?

GH: Hunter Automotive currently has a staff of seven. Myself and my brother Cliff, my wife Tracey, my nephew Matt, Jarrod, Thao, and John.

Do you or your staff actively compete in motorsport? Does that play a role in the professional development of your team?

GH: All our staff are motor enthusiasts. Our team compete in a variety of motorsport categories ranging from motocross to drag racing and speedway. This gives them the knowledge they need to help customers to get the most out of their vehicles.

You sponsor a lot of local motorsport and individual competitors. What role does it play in your marketing activities for the business?

GH: Sponsorships allow a marketing opportunity that lets people know of our products and services, as well as giving back to the events. We like to support our customers and the local motorsport community whenever possible and of course it is a great platform for us to showcase the work that we do.

What are your plans for the business over the next few years?

GH: The business is very stable right now. We will continue to provide the best experience for our customers. If we have a successful year at the drag strip, hopefully the business will continue to grow. The priority though will be to continue working and enjoying life.

On your website you have Street Fighter listed as an offering through Hunter Automotive. Tell us more about that relationship?

GH: We became a Street Fighter dealer eight years ago. We use them for our ECU remapping, dyno tuning, and performance products such as exhaust systems, supercharger kits and cam packages.

What do you do with your spare time?

GH: Hunter Automotive owns a drag car that we race at Springmount Raceway. Currently, I am the Vice President of the Cairns Show Association which keeps me busy during the year. I am Chief Steward of the pole climbing, wood chop and car show. I also have two boys that keep me busy and I like to build small-scale models of cars.

LW:What advice would you give to a young Glen Hunter starting out in the industry?

GH: Just believe in yourself, follow your passions and if the opportunity arises to make your dreams a reality, go for it.

Source: Motor Trader E-Magazine (Feb 2020)

6 Feb 2020