Mark Dodge Motoring

24/08/2026

In automotive, we spend plenty of time checking what's going on under the bonnet. But how often do we check what's going on with the people around us?

In honor of Tradies Mental Health Month, and in the lead up to R U OK? Day, we're sharing our toolbox talk tips that are designed to open up conversations about mental health in the workplace.

This week, take five minutes with your team and ask:
👉What are some signs that someone might be having a tough time?
👉What could we do as a team if we noticed those signs?

You don't need to have all the answers. Sometimes, simply noticing, asking and listening can make a real difference.

When something isn't right, don't shut the bonnet on it.

24/08/2026

24/08/2026

For the past 6 years, I’ve had the privilege of hosting more than 1,000 beautiful humans around this incredible world. 🌎❤️

Yes, it looks glamorous, and yes, it truly is a privilege — but it’s also hard work. Behind the photos, the adventures and the smiles, I’ve sacrificed a lot along the way.

Recently, moving into my new sanctuary — my very own holiday within my home — made me stop and think.

I’ve travelled everywhere. I’ve made beautiful friendships, laughed, cried, shared incredible meals and done some pretty amazing things… like hiking to see gorillas in the wild. 🦍

But I made a conscious decision

To sit back.

To smell the roses.

To have some me time for me before we start MG tour season again in November with 3 tours in a row!

Let’s face it — I’m in the business of making your dreams come true. ✈️✨

And while moving, I discovered just how emotional it can be. Opening boxes and finding old photographs, souvenirs and little reminders brought so many memories flooding back.

The meals we shared.
The places we explored.
The animals we saw.
The people we met.
The moments we laughed and cried through.

It’s all stored in my memory bank.

And I found myself asking…

What if I hadn’t done any of it?

What if I had kept waiting for that one day?

Here’s what I know now.

The biggest luxury item in my life isn’t a handbag, a new car or even a beautiful home.

It’s time.

Don’t wait for that one day.

It doesn’t have to be grand. It doesn’t have to be extravagant. It just needs to happen.

Because when all is said and done, our memories and our experiences are what we have.

So go.

Book the trip.
Take the holiday.
Make the memory.
Do the thing you keep saying you’ll do one day.

Be the person with endless stories to tell.

Happy Monday. ❤️

Book it. Live it. Remember it.

MG Tours I’m hosting

November- MG tour de Melbourne Cup cruise
January - Tour de Africa - the great migration
March - Tour de India - women only

MG Travel your local Helloworld 🌍

24/08/2026

⏰One week left to apply!

If you've built your career in the automotive industry and are passionate about sharing your knowledge, this is your opportunity to take the next step and become part of the next generation's journey.

As a VET trainer, you'll have the chance to:
✔️ Pass on your industry knowledge and skills
✔️ Inspire and mentor future automotive professionals
✔️ Help address Queensland's automotive skills shortage
✔️ Build a rewarding new chapter in your career

If you've ever thought about giving back to the industry that shaped your career, now is the time.

📅 Applications close next Monday, 31 August 2026
🔗 Apply now: https://mtaq.com.au/mtaq-vet-trainer-scholarship/

20/08/2026

This is how it all starts.

Every day.

A clean kitchen, the hard work of the previous night made ready for the next day.

Busy or quiet the night before, it matters not. This is my first view of La Fett every day when I walk in the door.

Kudos to my boys for the care and diligence they give me to make the space ready for the next day.

Today's. Missions include pasta production for two other restaurants, all our Mis-en-ples for service and 2 cartons of local Tiger Prawns for many of our customers favourites......

GAME ON!!

19/08/2026

🚨NEW COURSE ALERT | Wheel Alignment Fundamentals🚨

Wheel alignment is more than just adjusting angles – it's a critical service that impacts vehicle safety, handling, tyre life and customer satisfaction.

MTA Queensland’s NEW Wheel Alignment Fundamentals course has been developed specifically for tyre fitters, apprentices and automotive technicians looking to build confidence in one of the industry's most in-demand skills.

Through a combination of theory and practical training, you'll learn how to:
✔️ Understand wheel alignment principles and geometry
✔️ Identify common alignment faults and their causes
✔️ Perform accurate wheel alignment procedures
✔️ Improve tyre wear, vehicle handling and customer outcomes
✔️ Apply best-practice techniques using industry-standard equipment

Whether you're new to wheel alignments or looking to strengthen your existing skills, this course will help you deliver more accurate, professional results in the workshop.

📍 MTA Queensland, Eight Mile Plains
🗓 Thurs, 3 September 2026
🔗 Find out more and register: https://mtaq.com.au/wheel-alignment-fundamentals/

17/08/2026

🚗 We’re growing our training team!

Have you built your career in the automotive industry and now want to help shape the next generation of technicians?

MTA Institute is looking for passionate automotive professionals to join our growing team of Technical Trainers & Assessors, with opportunities available across:

📍 Cairns - https://au.seek.com/job/93891015?ref=cm-ui
📍 Gladstone - https://au.seek.com/job/93896142?ref=cm-ui
📍 Toowoomba - https://au.seek.com/job/93892734?ref=cm-ui

As an MTAI trainer, you’ll take your industry experience beyond the workshop and into the workplace - delivering hands-on training and assessment to apprentices and trainees while helping them build the skills, knowledge and confidence they need for a successful career.

We're looking for experienced Light Vehicle or Heavy Vehicle Mechanical professionals who are passionate about the trade and keen to make a difference.

🔧 Your experience could be the next generation's greatest advantage.

Ready to make the move from technician to trainer? Apply today!