Farewell message from Vern Walker

It is with a mixture of sadness and anticipation of my unknown future journey that I announce I will be finishing with Nelson Bays Motor Group on 31st August 2018.  

As I reflect over the last 23 years in business with Garry Dayman, I believe we have achieved many things.  Initially I began in a 2 person team on the corner of Rutherford St and Selwyn Place in 1995 with Peugeot and my original staff member Jeremy Clark.  Jeremy has loyally been with us for these 23 years and still remains with us. Thank you for your loyal service and friendship.

In 1999 we saw the biggest transformation with the successful bid for the Holden franchise.  This was one of our greater achievements, with a new franchise and developing a new parts, service and administration department building to a staff of 17.

Another standout during our time at this dealership was having Peter Brock visit the dealership in 2002.  As well as having an open day there for our customers to meet Peter, we also ran a closed road event on the old Whangamoa Road with Peter giving our valued customers the ride of their life!

Reaching speeds of 270 km/hr down a hill into a sweeping left-hand corner certainly made for an exciting ride.  This is something very few Holden dealers and customers would ever have the opportunity to do.  Peter was a true champion and a gentleman and you certainly got to know why he was named ‘Peter Perfect’!

Another highlight was when Jason Richards (V8 Supercar Driver), was our guest to release the VY Commodore along with Andre the magician.  Andre made the car appear on stage.  I’m not quite sure to this day how he made this happen!  Jason was truly a great guy and a fantastic Holden ambassador, sadly taken from us way too soon.

In 2007 the business moved to join with Dayman Motors Ltd on the corner of Collingwood and Halifax Streets and the relationship with Nissan NZ was re-established adding another key franchise to the dealership.  This business has gone from strength to strength and now employs up to 45 staff.

There are many memories and relationships I have established over the 30 years in the motor industry.  I will certainly miss the interaction with everybody that I have had, however, I can assure you will all be in good hands with your future dealings with our Company.  

I wish you all well, and no doubt I will see you on the road or socializing somewhere!

Best regards, Vern