The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) has elected its new executive board following a member ballot.
The election marks another milestone in the organisation’s 106-year industry advocacy and leadership history in Victoria’s automotive sector.
“VACC celebrates its 106th year of industry advocacy, with an organisation proudly led by a new board dedicated to the VACC’s charter and delivering on its member promise,” VACC chief executive Geoff Gwilym says.
VACC welcomes its new President and Executive Board Chairman, Craig Beruldsen, from the Towing Operators Industry Division and Mel Schmidt Panel Works business owner in Mildura.
The elected vice chairman is Paul Bertoli from the Farm and Industrial Machinery Dealers Association, who owns Bertoli Farm Machinery in Shepparton.
The new VACC Secretary is Matt Jones from the Motorcycle Industry Division, who operates Matt Jones Motorcycles in Melton.
The newly elected Board brings together a diverse range of automotive industry expertise, comprising:
- Chris Hummer (Dynamic Wheel Co.)
- Michael Grubb (Specialist Auto Cambridge, TAS)
- Sid Cetindag (Brighton Toyota & Lexus Of Brighton)
- Paul Hopper (Werribee Hyundai)
- Ms Carly Ruggeri (Europanels EP Pty Ltd)
- Anthony Schache (Horsham Auto Electrical Pty Ltd)
The board’s composition reflects the breadth of Victoria and Tasmania’s automotive industry. Adding first-time board members Anthony Schache and Carly Ruggeri brings fresh perspectives and demonstrates VACC’s commitment to evolving with the industry.
“It’s a pleasure and an honour to lead Victoria’s most prominent and dedicated automotive industry association. My task ahead will be to work closely with the Board and the CEO to ensure VACC continues to be a strong advocate for the industry and its 5,000 business owner members,” Beruldsen says.
“Many challenges are ahead, including the transition to an electric vehicle fleet and the skills required to keep the vehicle fleet moving. Engaging with the government will be central to VACC’s role. This includes working closely with the national automotive body MTAA to ensure we get state and national outcomes,” he says.
The new board takes office at a pivotal time for Victoria and Tasmania’s automotive industry, as it navigates significant technological transitions, workforce development challenges, and evolving consumer expectations. VACC’s leadership will be instrumental in guiding members through these changes while maintaining the high standards of service and professionalism that have characterised the industry for over a century.
It’s immediate priorities include strengthening industry training pathways, advocating for sustainable business practices, and ensuring member businesses are well-positioned to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex automotive landscape.
