Prior to accepting his new position, Brian had been the Divisional Manager for Yanmar’s New Zealand distributor which made his move across the ‘ditch’ a more familiar transition than expected.
“Over the last 8 years I have come to know the Power Equipment team very well,” explained Brian.
“When I learned that there was an opportunity to work with them in Australia, I got in touch with Noel Heritage. After meeting with the team, I knew that my new role in Western Australia was the ideal challenge that I needed.”
Brian has an extensive background in the marine industry spanning over thirty years. Prior to working with Yanmar in New Zealand, Brian had worked with Mercury and MerCruiser. He has also spent countless hours on his own personal leisure craft. Brian’s intimate knowledge of the Yanmar brand makes him the ideal candidate to continue Power Equipment’s strong relationship with Australian OEM boat builders and commercial enterprises.
“There is an enormous amount of potential for our brands within the local commercial and leisure industries,” said Brian.
“During my first week in the office, the first 20 phone calls I received were of a commercial nature. We have just finished a large repower project fitting twin 700hp Yanmar 6HY marine diesels into a 60 foot supply boat for the gas and oil fields industry. I expect to see further growth with commercial interests in crayfish and pearls up north.”
The Power Equipment office in Western Australia is located in the heart of a marina in Fremantle where luxury cruisers are berthed outside Brian’s office window. While a calm marine environment may be a peaceful backdrop to do business, travelling will make up a fair part of Brian’s itinerary.
“The hardest aspect of my job so far is dealing with the sheer size of Australia,” said Brian.
“I recently took a trip up to Geraldton to meet a client and thought it would be a short drive up the road. After four hours in the car I realised just how big Australia really is and how much different the travelling is compared to living in New Zealand- but it’s so nice to have good weather. “
When Brian is not thinking about boats, he can be found at the local golf course working on his handicap. When his wife joins him in Fremantle after packing up their home in New Zealand, she expects that golf will take a back seat to exploring their new home state.
Power Equipment is the exclusive and authorised Australian, PNG and South Pacific distributor of Yanmar Marine and Industrial diesel engines importing product from Yanmar plants in Japan, Asia, USA and Europe. With an extensive marine dealer and branch network. Power Equipment has the expertise and experience to assist vessel owners and boat builders for both new installations and repowers. Power Equipment also distribute the Yanmar powered MASE diesel marine generators range and Gori high quality folding sailboat propellers.
For further information on this story contact:
Noel Heritage
Business Manager
Power Equipment
Phone (03) 9757 9225
Mobile 0407 301 099
Email noel.heritage@yanmar.com.au
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