After nearly a quarter of a century there will be a changing of the guard at John Amato Auto Repairs, Forster later this month.
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Following 23 years at the helm, John and Jan Amato will officially retire after selling their business.
A fully qualified mechanic, John has serviced and repaired his fair share of cars and light trucks over the past two decades.
According to son Matt, the couple has formed many life-long relationships with their customers, and the many suppliers and businesses they have dealt with on an almost daily basis.
From being sent prospective customers, to being delivered cakes and coffee, John and Jan have built a work network that is more like a family to them, Matt said.
Equally, John and Jan have given back to the community, hosting free annual registration checks for the local historic and custom car clubs, to sponsoring awards for local cars shows.
Also, the working couple has engaged local students for high school work experience.
"Anyone who has sent their car to John would agree that he goes out of his way to help anyone in need."
John also is known for his sense of humour and eagerness to prank or play a practical joke.
To make light of a humorous breakdown or to add a personal touch, and brighten someone's dull day, John would often make trophies out of broken car parts to make light
Born and raised in Tuncurry, John completed his apprenticeship in Forster in the late 1960s before moving to Sydney - where he met Jan.
The couple returned to Forster and John began work.
However, after years of working for someone else and the financial pressures of raising a family persuaded John and Jan to take the risk and open their own business.
The couple will hand over the keys to new owner, Aaron Wilson later this month.
But, would love to see some familiar faces before they leave
"Rest assured John wouldn't sell his name on a business to just anyone and trusts that Aaron will carry on the reputation that John and Jan have established, so please support him in his new venture."
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