Mossel Bay-based Hendrik Coetzee found a novel way of celebrating his workshop’s first anniversary. Rather than following the usual route of offering customers a discount, he decided to open his workshop to the entire community, giving anyone who stopped by a free 62-point service and diagnostic report. Drivers were even treated to complimentary hot dogs, cool drinks, and chips, with music and fireworks setting a festive mood.
Hendrik says that the day, which took place on 31 October, was a huge success, and many customers have made time to visit the workshop since they saw all the activity.
It took Hendrik, a diesel mechanic, two and a half years to find the perfect site for his first workshop, and although Covid-19 made his first year in business a difficult one, he’s very optimistic about the future. He’s also very excited to be a MIWA member, and appreciates all the support the association has given him.
Finns Auto in Port Elizabeth has also been supporting their community, hosting a special CANSA walk to raise funds and awareness of cancer. The workshop worked hard to promote awareness of prostate cancer during ‘Movember’, donating a portion of all motor health checks to the Movember Foundation and selling moustache-shaped biscuits to benefit the same cause.
And last but not least, the team from Ians Auto Clinic have also been making a difference at Greensleeves Children’s Trust. They have been assisting them with the repairs on their vehicles as well as helping fundraise and provide the Trust with ad hoc items and groceries when they are in need. Carol Radloff encourages all members to like their facebook page and help where possible. They are a non-profit organisation and rely totally on friends and companies to assist and donate.
“Well done to all those members who have in spite of the challenging year, managed to survive, and in many cases, make the lives of others more bearable,” concludes Pieter Niemand.