Gian-Mario celebrates milestone in style

Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo, Gian-Mario Deambrogio and Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto with certificates recognising Gian-Mario’s 57 years of service to the Herbert River District.

AN icon of the Herbert River District has been recognised for almost 60 years of service to the local community.

Trebonne Mobilgas Service Centre founder Gian-Mario Deambrogio was joined by friends, family and colleagues for his 80^th birthday party last Thursday, before being surprised with certificates recognising 57 years of service by Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto and Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo.

Mr Deambrogio said he was humbled by the occasion, praising others for helping him achieve success over the years.

“The fact is I didn’t do it alone. I’ve had very good support from my wife Carmel and a lot of other people who I’ve employed,” he said.

“You rely upon customers returning because of the service you provide. The only way you can be successful is to do the right thing.”

Mr Deambrogio’s passion for the automotive industry began at the age of 15 when he started a five-year apprenticeship with Marvic Motors, which saw him earn Queensland Apprentice of the Year upon completion.

Mr Deambrogio eventually went out on his own, purchasing Trebonne Mobilgas Service Centre on December 1, 1964 when he was 24.

Since then, the veteran mechanic has gained a loyal following of customers in the Herbert River District, repairing everything from lawn mowers and motor vehicles through to tractors and cane harvesters. The business also specialises in hydraulics and in auto air conditioning.

While his wife Carmel looked after the administrative side of the business, Mr Deambrogio trained many apprentices over the years, including his two sons David and Stephen, nephew Geoff Cantatore and cousin Stephen Accatino.

Stephen, commonly known as “Turbo”, and his wife Christine Deambrogio purchased the business in August 2011, but Mr Deambrogio continues to work full-time at his own discretion, passing on his knowledge and wisdom to the next generation of budding mechanics.

Aa man of strong Christian values and high moral standards that is always willing to put others needs before his own, Mr Dametto said Mr Deambrogio led by example.

“Gian-Mario epitomises the principles of hard work, dedication and honesty,” Mr Dametto said.

“This is how he lives his life and is the reason for his long-standing success over many decades here at Trebonne. It fills me with immense pride knowing we have businessmen like Gian-Mario setting the standard in Hinchinbrook.

“He is a credit to this community and a true gentleman.”

Cr Jayo praised Mr Deambrogio’s “marvellous” work history and his contribution to many organisations around the District over the years.