The AADA National Dealer Convention was a celebration of the automotive industry, showcasing new ideas and products, and facilitating new connections. It was also a time to pay tribute to some of the industry’s greatest figures, with the Awards Night on Monday the 10th of August.
Michael Claridge
– AADA Certificate of Appreciation
The Managing Director of Claridge Holden in Adelaide, Mr Claridge has been a part of the automotive industry for 41 years. He got his start as an apprentice motor mechanic for the family dealership before moving on to become Fixed Operations Manager and serve as an inaugural director on the board of AADA. But for the past 26 years he has worked to preserve the dealership that has been in his family since 1928. We would like to extend our congratulations to Mr Claridge for his contributions to our industry.
Ken Morgan OAM
– Automotive Dealer Contribution to Community
Mr Morgan is not only an important figure in the automotive industry, but a godsend to homeless youth. After building a successful car retail business, Ken Morgan OAM was shocked when the Burdekin Report, published in 1989 by the then Federal Human Rights Commissioner, Brian Burdekin, revealed that the rate of homelessness in Australia was reaching critical levels. This inspired him to create Kids Under Cover, a nationwide welfare service that offers housing to youth at risk of being homeless. It was our honour to pay tribute to a man who has done so much for others.
John Crennan
– Automotive Dealer Certificate of Recognition
Mr Crennan has held many prestigious positions within the automotive industry. After a long and rewarding career at General Motors since 1962, he ‘retired’ from the industry in 2012 to take up the position as CEO of Nissan Motorsport. Things continued to get better for Mr Crennan. Last year, US heavyweight Penske Automotive Group offered him the position as adviser to help with expanding the company in Australia. Mr Crennan is also a regular contributor of articles to Automotive Dealer. We give thanks to Mr Crennan for his tireless efforts and contributions to our industry over the years.