By Natasha Fujimoto
TOM Farren, by all accounts, is the kind of man who gets great satisfaction rolling up his sleeves to help someone out.
Accomplishing a career that has effectively spanned fifty years within the same job, Tom’s calling began at the Trevaskis Nissan dealership in 1969 at the tender age of 14 where he undertook a work experience placement.
Situated on the north-east corner of Archer Street and Benalla Road, the Datsun, Peugeot and Renault Dealership (garage and petrol station) soon offered the young North-Tech student a mechanics apprenticeship. Taking to the trade like a duck to water, Tom soon progressed to service manager before the business was purchased by the Thompson Motor Group in 2003.
Traversing the ownership change over, Tom also served as ‘the main RACV guy’ who fulfilled the dealerships’ role as an agent, and it was in this job that Tom’s big-hearted reputation really shone through.
“I think Tom just enjoys making people happy and that was one of the reasons he did the RACV for so many years. If you locked your keys in your car or if you had a flat battery out in the rain, Tom was your man, and that’s the sort of person he is,” said Thompson Motor Group director, Jarrod Thompson.
Sticking with Thompson Motor Group as it made its big move up the Midland Highway in 2008, Tom has long since relinquished his 2.30am RACV callouts but has continued, nonetheless, to firmly embed himself as a much loved and respected member of the motor group family.
“He’s a guy that everyone loves, I can’t say enough positives about him” Jarrod said, before adding, “Tom presents a loyalty, commitment and a work ethic that is very special and you don’t see that as much anymore.
“I know everyone goes to work but for Tom, he really wants us and the people around him to be pleased with the job he does. Fifty years with such a conviction is remarkable.”
Having worn many hats and striving for excellence in each of his roles within the dealership over the years, Tom is deservedly winding down his current position in quality control, while his grandson Kyle, has come on board to detail the service cars.
When asked about his longevity and his exceptional commitment to the dealership throughout his singular career, Tom said, “They’re a good group of boys. I get along with everyone and talk to everyone. It’s never just been a job to me, it’s socialisation. For me, I come INTO work, it not TO work.”
With a much-deserved retirement shining bright on the horizon, Tom is looking forward to holidaying with his wife Vicki. Perhaps it will be a cruise, or hopefully for Tom a trip to Disneyland to see the Star Wars exhibition. May the force be with you, Tom on your next chapter!
