Wednesday, March 11, 2026
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Getting a head start in the heavy vehicle industry

READY TO LEARN... Graham Thomson Motors Shepparton's 2026 class of apprentices are on the job and ready to earn their stripes. Pictured from left is General Manager Anthony Conte, Liam Beer, Cooper Fitzgerald, and Georga Hoppner. Photo: Cassidy Parker.

Graham Thomson Motors Shepparton is welcoming its newest group of apprentices in for 2026 on the road to becoming qualified heavy vehicle diesel technicians. Graham Thomson Motors (GTM) makes a welcoming and supportive environment for young people, either still in school, graduates or school leavers to pursue a career in an industry that’s full of opportunity.

At GTM, apprentices access on site franchise training with Kenworth and DAF over their four-year training period and are welcomed into friendly and capable team of graduated apprentices who keep the Shepparton location at 138-144 New Dookie Rd, Shepparton VIC 3630 running.

READY TO LEARN… Graham Thomson Motors Shepparton’s 2026 class of apprentices are on the job and ready to earn their stripes. Pictured from left is General Manager Anthony Conte, Liam Beer, Cooper Fitzgerald, and Georga Hoppner. Photo: Cassidy Parker.

General Manager Anthony Conte, who has been with GTM for over 22 years, will oversee this year’s apprentices, and is looking optimistic about the new generation of Shepparton’s diesel mechanics. “They’re great kids, very enthusiastic and keen to learn.” Anthony explained most apprentices start their career journeys in high school with work experience through school programs and can transition into extra work in school holidays. “Hopefully, if they really enjoy it, they can transition into an apprenticeship and then start on the tools.”

Anthony encouraged anyone interested in starting their career with work experience or searching for a 2027 apprenticeship to come out and speak to the team at Graham Thomson Shepparton, and find out how they can get involved.