16 teams from VIC, NSW, QLD, SA were selected for the finals of the SACHs Masters; a challenging practical automotive competition, which put competitors into a live workshop situation, to diagnose, service & repair a range of faults on both complete vehicles and modules, including engine, brake, suspension and electrical components.
ZF Australia Pacific, together with the University of Ballarat (TAFE Division), the BMW National Training Centre and the VACC launched the SACHS Masters, which took place in July 2008, as a rare chance for experienced Automotive Technicians to put their talents and abilities to use in a competitive environment.
Winners of the SACHS Masters are awarded prize money of $10,000.
Competitors were brought ‘back to basics’, unable to rely on sophisticated scan tools and diagnostic equipment to get the job done. Some faults proved quite frustrating for many teams, especially with Camrys that would not start, and wiring a series of lights from scratch.
| The Winners of the 2008 SACHS Masters:
SACHS Masters 2008 Champions, receiving $10,000 cash: ‘BM United’, from BMW Sydney. Team Members: • Shannon O'Neill
• Adam Smith
• Trent Moore
Runners-up, receiving $7,500 cash: ‘Team Platinum’ from Platinum Automotive Care, Sydney. Team Members: • Anthony Bothwell
• Brad Lawless
• Trent Knight
Consolation prizes, of 3 gift certificates for BMW Driver Training to the following teams: ‘Daylsford Dyno’ (Howe Auto, Daylsford Vic)
‘Geelong city’ (Geelong City Motors/ BMW Melbourne)
‘Grease Monkeys’ (BMW Melbourne) |
Overall, teams were very positive about the competition, with many teams, including the winners indicating that they hoped to return next year for another go at the competition.
The SACHS Masters 2009 will be held from the 2nd- 4th April at the AAAE show at Darling Harbour, Sydney. Registrations are expected to open in January 2009.
Photos from the 2008 SACHs Masters award ceremony:
SkillsOne headed to the SACHs Masters to see all the action – stay tuned for the SkillsOne coverage of the event.
