Community
28 June, 2024
Small engine specialist breaks barriers
NOT even the lockdowns and restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic could deter Shannon Johnstone from achieving his dreams of becoming a fully qualified small engine mechanic.
Shannon, a valued staff member at Warrnambool Motorcycles and Gardening Products (WMGP), faced many obstacles while undertaking his apprenticeship.
“The biggest challenge I faced during my apprenticeship was the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
“It was a tough time, but it taught me that taking shortcuts doesn’t pay off and that you need to give everything your best effort.”
Having begun his studies as a mature-aged student, Mr Johnstone recently completed his small engine mechanic apprenticeship.
According to the team at WMGP Shannon has demonstrated exceptional dedication, expertise, and a remarkable work ethic, making him a valued member of the team.
Prior to joining WMGP, he worked as a machinery operator at Bamstone and a machine operator and designer at Hip Pocket Workwear.
His love for motorcycles ultimately led him to pursue a career in small engine mechanics.
Throughout his training, Shannon was supported by MEGT and Kangan Institute.
His mentor during his apprenticeship was WMGP services and sales manager Chris Falkiner.
“Chris is a qualified mechanic and a great trainer. He has a lot of knowledge about all things engines, which really helped teach me the trade,” Mr Johnstone said.
“His guidance and support were invaluable to my development as a mechanic.”
One of the aspects Shannon enjoys most about his work is the constant variety and challenge.
“There are always new challenges coming into the workshop, and I love working it out and getting the engine going again.
“We see such a wide range of machines here at WMGP, from whipper snippers, push mowers and zero-turn mowers to motorbikes, ATVs, and side-by-side buggies. No day is the same.”
Mr Johnstone’s advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship in small engine mechanics is straightforward.
“If someone is thinking about doing an apprenticeship in small engines, I definitely encourage them to give it a crack.”
Mentor Chris Falkiner is incredibly proud of Shannon’s achievements.
“He has come a long way since he started here over four years ago,” Mr Falkiner said.
“From having no prior experience, he has worked his way through fixing small power equipment such as brush cutters and chainsaws all the way through to now being confident servicing and repairing the bigger small engines such as side by side buggies.
“We’re grateful to have Shannon on our team; he is a passionate, knowledgeable and adaptable mechanic and we look forward to seeing his continued growth and success.”
