By Marc McGowan
GRAHAM Cockerell’s Upper Beaconsfield business, Moonshine Motors, chalks up 25 years on Saturday.
It is a culmination of the 51yearold’s unwavering passion for motor vehicles, which has seen off many competitors.
“I was just always interested in cars as a kid,” Mr Cockerell explained.
“I did an apprenticeship and it just grew from there. The other satisfying thing about 25 years is that I’ve trained quite a few really good apprentices.”
He puts the business’ success down to personal application.
“It is determination just to stick with what you take on,” Mr Cockerell said.
“It is the same as a lot of people restoring a car. A lot start and never get finished, but I like to finish what I start.”
He estimates that he has worked on thousands of cars over the years and he is particularly enthusiastic about those with a vintage heritage.
“I just love old cars; just the variety of shapes and styles in the older ones,” Mr Cockerell said. “We have to work on the new ones, though!”
His devotion to the fourwheeled variety is not only restricted to the Moonshine Motors’ garage.
“About five years ago, we had 40,000 people standing on their feet after winning a burnout comp at Calder Park,” Mr Cockerell said.
His love has been passed on to his two daughters, Lauren and Robyn, who enjoy putting the pedal to the metal.
“I’ve encouraged my kids and friends’ kids to let off steam on a racetrack and not on the streets,” Mr Cockerell said.
There will be a free BBQ and drinks this Saturday to celebrate the 25year milestone and will be held from midmorning to midafternoon at Moonshine Motors.
Anyone interested in attending and showcasing their classic vehicle can call 5944 4111.
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