Father and Son mechanic shops are a common sight. Ian Payne’s Automotive Engineering in Townsville is one such workshop where Ian and his son Nicholas run a successful business offering a wide range of services. Nicholas’s passionate participation in the local motorsport community provides a prime platform to share their good work.

Words: Lara Wilde, Pictures: Jess Donoghoe, Sweet Spot Photography

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Tell us about the products and services you offer at Ian Payne’s Automotive Engineering?

IP: We are a multi-purpose shop offering our customers full in-house engine repairs, servicing and maintenance as well as engine reconditioning. Our shop is a favourite for car dealers in the area who need machining operations completed. We exchange cylinder heads for late model petrol and diesel motors. Ours is the only shop where you can drive in and we will take out the motor, recondition it for you and put it back in so you can drive away.

What is your background in the automotive industry?

IP: I started my career as an apprentice fitter and turner at Automotive Component Services (ACS) in Ogden St in Townsville on the 27th of November in 1972. In 1976 I transferred to Ayr to run the ACS workshop and I stayed there until 1991. I opened the doors to my own workshop in 1991 when I started the business from scratch in Ayr. In 1998 the shop was relocated to Townsville as we searched for a larger marketplace with more customers. I have also completed my trade qualifications as a motor mechanic for light vehicles and engine reconditioning and I have completed business and management qualifications

Are you still hands on in the business today?

IP: I am still on the tools 5 days a week from 6am each day.

Who is in your current team?

IP: My son Nicholas started in 2007 as an apprentice mechanic in the workshop. Since then, he has completed his trade and gone on to complete business management qualifications which are very useful in the day-to-day operation of the workshop. Joe Liddy is an engine reconditioner in the workshop and is 74 years old. Joe was my first boss, and it was under Joe that I completed my fitter and turner apprenticeship at ACS. John Tooth is an engine reconditioner on the team and he too is 74 years old and brings a lifetime of experience to the job. Marc Caddies is another engine reconditioner who has been a part of the team for 10 years. Bryan Waples and Erik Anderson are trade qualified mechanics, while Kim Herd is a fitter and welder in the workshop. My partner Carol Mijic helps out in the office with administration support.

You put your son Nicholas through his apprenticeship. Do you take on many apprentices?

IP: In the past we have put through apprentices, but I haven’t put any through since Nicholas completed his trade. However, we often have work experience students from local high schools join us to learn about the trade. If the right person comes along, we will consider an apprenticeship for them. We like to support our local schools and tech colleges with work experiences.

Do you sponsor a lot of local motorsport and individual competitors?

IP: We sponsor a lot of individual competitors in local burnout competitions and the Formula 500 competition at the local speedway. Nicholas is well known in the local burnout scene and a variety of motorsport events in his Falcon ute. He has competed very actively and has even won a few competitions. It is great to sponsor and support local kids who are having a go in a safe environment but there isn’t any real benefit to the marketing of the business.

What are your plans for the next few years?

IP: I am just continuing to cruise along and keep doing what we are doing. I hope that Nicholas will take over the business from me one day so I can retire.

What advice would you give to a young you starting out in the industry?

IP: Be enthusiastic, be dedicated and have an attitude to learn.

How much importance do you place on social media for your business?

IP: We don’t spend a great deal time or money on social media. Our marketing is focused largely on maintaining our good reputation and sharing it via word of mouth.

What do you see as the greatest advancement in technology for your business?

IP: The access to information on the internet and hubs of info such as MTA Queensland to quickly and affordably source information. Gone are the days of ringing around and trying to find a part or the right information.

Has Covid impacted your business?

IP: Yes. Covid has had a positive impact with people staying home to do repairs and maintenance on their vehicles. They have cash to spend on their cars and they want to spend it locally. The second-hand market for cars has become very expensive and so people have fixed what they have rather than trading their cars in for a newer or better model.

Do you consider that the advancements in electric cars will have an impact on your business?

IP: I haven’t seen an impact from electrical vehicles yet. We do training with staff when training is available locally or online. The most accessible form of training seems to be online but when it is in Townsville, we make a point of having staff attend in person.

How long have you been a member of MTAQ?

IP: I joined MTA Queensland in 1992 not long after I opened the doors to my own business. Since then, I have always encouraged people to join. MTA Queensland is an excellent source of industry-relevant information and I appreciate the specialised assistance to deal with legal and HR matters. Our membership has also supported us to deal with the Government and access to preferred suppliers such as the Commonwealth bank who we use for our Eftpos.

What do you do with your spare time?

IP: Living in North Queensland is paradise and I take advantage of every spare moment. I have a boat and I love going to the islands. My partner and I spend our weekends beachcombing, island hopping, fishing, and spending time with the six grandkids.

CLICK TO VISIT THE PAYNES AUTO ENGINEERING WEBSITE

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (July 2022)

14 July 2022