28/06/2026
Big changes have happened. Again, we are so thankful for the Pomona Community, our amazing customers and friends, and Hayden and Abby for taking on the business - it's a blessing to know the business has gone into great hands.
Sunday Spotlight: Andrew Chapman
After more than 25 years serving the Pomona community, Andrew Chapman is handing over the keys to Andrews A Grade Mechanical and beginning a new rural life with his family in Bundaberg.
Andrew, owner of the long-running local workshop, said the business had always been about more than fixing cars. “Well family and cost of life was the original motive for starting the business, but I just love helping people,” he said. “That’s the number one reason and we are grateful for being a part of the Pomona community. We’ve been blessed here.”
Known for his personal approach with customers, Andrew said many of the relationships built through the workshop lasted decades. “The work is more than a transaction. I have a personal relationship with them all,” he said. “On my invoice… instead of something meaningless it says: ‘Thank you for your business, it’s been a privilege to be of service to you.’”
A true local since primary school, the resident of 50 years is also known for having a huge heart, running youth outreach programs in the Pomona Memorial Hall and volunteering as a prison chaplain. “I’ve always wanted to help those less fortunate,” he said.
The business has now been taken over by local couple Abby and Hayden, with the workshop renamed Pomona Complete Auto . Andrew said the business would be in good hands. “Hayden has been with me here for eight years (and I’ve known him since his school days), so I know he will continue on with the principals and legacy of the company.”
The Chapman family has purchased a 150-acre property near Bundaberg, where several generations of the extended family will live. Despite the move, he plans to continue operating Andrews A Grade Mechanical as a mobile service in the Bundaberg region.
Looking back on his years in Pomona, Andrew said he felt deeply grateful. “I’m humbled to be a part of their lives - that they trusted me and count it a privilege that I was given the opportunity. I want to wish the community all the best in the days ahead.”