It’s not every day you come across someone who has devoted three decades to a single industry - and done it with the same passion and dedication as when they first started. This year marks Gavin Gibson’s 30-year milestone working at the same dealership, a business that has grown and evolved under different owners - Gold Coast Truck Centre, Vanderfield, and today, Sci-Fleet Hino Nerang. Through every change, Gavin’s steady presence has been invaluable.
Building a Career in Spare Parts
Gavin’s journey began when he moved to Nerang from the country town of Goondiwindi, to play First Grade Cricket for the Gold Coast Dolphins. Looking for work, an opportunity arose for Gavin to join the Gold Coast Truck Centre as a Parts Interpreter.
Just 18 months later, the dealership’s Parts Manager departed, and Gavin was encouraged to step into the role. “I worked hard, had a good attitude, and just worked on a customer first basis. I think the boss must have just seen that in me and said, ‘yeah, I think you'd be good’”. Admitting his initial reluctance, Gavin accepted the role and ultimately describes the choice as “the best decision I probably made.”
Today, as Spare Parts Manager, Gavin wears many hats, overseeing the full spectrum of Sci-Fleet Hino Nerang’s parts operation. “I do a bit of everything,” he jokes. From managing the parts orders, reaching targets, to maintaining relationships with customers and suppliers, Gavin’s days are a mix of hands-on problem-solving and high-level oversight.
Watching Hino and the Industry Grow
Since starting in 1995, Gavin has witnessed Hino evolve alongside the dramatic transformation of the trucking industry. From changes to ADR regulations, to the shift towards digital systems, Gavin welcomes the industry's rapid growth, citing that it’s ‘made his job easier.’
Yet some things remain constant: quality products and dependable support - values that Sci-Fleet Hino take great pride in upholding. Drawing on decades of experience in the industry, Gavin emphasises the longevity, fit, and reliability of genuine parts, urging that aftermarket options are not an efficient or long-term solution. “You can buy an aftermarket part, but six months down the track, you’d be replacing it again” he shares.
Investing in Skills and Training
Even after 30 years, Gavin remains committed to pursuing a deeper understanding of the Hino product. From formal training at Sydney head office, to learning on the job, Gavin works closely with Hino and suppliers to continue supporting both customers and his team at a high standard.
It’s this commitment to growth that has made him a familiar and trusted figure among customers and colleagues alike. While he doesn’t call it “formal training,” Gavin ensures his fellow staff are trained, supported and ready to deliver. “I just show them the way I’ve been shown, and how the Hino product works,” he explains.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
30 Years on, and Gavin’s name is practically synonymous with the business itself. At the recent anniversary dinner, the significance of the milestone hit home. “I got a bit emotional because it is a big thing - 30 years is over half my life.”
When asked about a standout moment in his career, Gavin points to an achievement that reflects not just individual effort, but the success of the whole team: Sci-Fleet Hino Nerang crowned as Regional Dealer of the Year in 2022. The award was a testament to the ongoing dedication, expertise and exceptional customer care across the dealership's operations, including the parts department under his leadership.
So, what has kept Gavin committed through 30 years of change? Simple: “I love the Hino product. That’s all I know,” he remarks.
Thirty years is no small feat. Sci-Fleet General Manager, Brad Elliott sums it up perfectly: “Congratulations Gavin. Thank you for your dedication, hard work and commitment over the years. A truly impressive milestone achievement – well done!”