🎉 2024/25 Staff Awards – Celebrating Excellence, Honouring Legacy
This year’s Mid-Year Staff Event was more than just a great night out — it was a proud moment of reflection and recognition.
Fresh off being named Toyota Eastern Regional Rural Dealer of the Year for the second year running, our team came together to celebrate not just the milestone, but the people who made it possible.
When Dealer Principal Ben Thompson took the stage to announce the winners of our annual Staff Awards, it wasn’t just about recognising individual excellence — it was a heartfelt tribute to the entire Dubbo City & Gilgandra Toyota team.
With David Hayes, Director, and Jack Hobbs, Vice President of TMCA, presenting the awards, the night was filled with pride, appreciation, and the unmistakable energy of Toyota.
🏅 Celebrating Legacy Through Leadership – Our 2024/25 Award Winners
At Dubbo City & Gilgandra Toyota, our Staff Awards are more than a moment of recognition — they are a living tribute to those who shaped our culture. Three of our most prestigious honours carry the names of former team members whose influence continues to guide us: Mark Porelli, Greg Wallace, and the legendary Tommy Toyota.
Mark Porelli Apprentice of the Year – Amy Verrall
Named in honour of Mark Porelli, a former apprentice whose technical talent, dedication, and work ethic set a benchmark still recognised today. This award celebrates rising stars who reflect his passion for the trade.
Amy Verrall began her journey through the Skillset–UGL Indigenous SBAT program and quickly became a standout — even featuring in Skillset’s marketing campaigns and being named SBAT of the Year in 2022. Since becoming an apprentice at Dubbo City Toyota, Amy has continued to grow in confidence and skill. Her drive, curiosity, and work ethic make her a rising force in the workshop — and a proud recipient of this award.
Administration Excellence Award – Briette Smith
This award recognises those whose behind-the-scenes contributions keep everything running smoothly.
Briette Smith is a quiet achiever — but her impact is loud and clear. Seamlessly bridging the Reception and Service Departments, she consistently delivers exceptional customer service while supporting operations behind the scenes. Her leadership and care have directly contributed to a perfect 100% LCPS retention rate for the next three months — a testament to her focus, professionalism, and pride in the role.
Greg Wallace Service & Parts Excellence Award – Tye Ferguson-Howison
This award honours Greg Wallace, our long-serving Service Manager who exemplified commitment to customer care and leadership in Service & Parts.
Tye Ferguson-Howison joined us in September 2024 as a Trainee Service Advisor and quickly made his mark. With life experience and a background in boxing, Tye brings calmness, empathy, and confidence to every customer interaction. Whether staying late to get a vehicle back on the road or bringing a steady hand in high-pressure moments, Tye lives the values this award represents.
Technician of the Year – Louie Barro
Recognising technical excellence, this award is for a technician whose skill and leadership raise the bar for the entire team.
Louie Barro has been with us since 2020 and has become one of the workshop’s most reliable and accomplished team members. With Service and Pro Tech certifications under his belt and a recent step into Diagnostic Technician and Team Leader roles, Louie continues to lead by example — topping KPIs while mentoring others along the way.
Tommy Toyota Top Salesperson Award – Matt Cross
Everyone, everywhere knew Tommy Toyota. A true character and people person, Tommy embodied the passion, connection, and spirit of the Toyota brand. This award recognises not just results, but the energy and heart behind them.
Matt Cross continues that legacy. With 279 vehicles sold throughout Australia and five consecutive years as our top Used Car Salesperson, Matt’s performance speaks for itself. His dedication has earned him not only local recognition — including a Dubbo Business Chamber People’s Choice nomination — but also a seat on the Dealership's reward & recognition trip and a finalist spot in the National Skills program. Matt leads with professionalism, consistency, and a genuine drive to deliver for every guest.
🌟 Recognising the Whole Team
These awards are more than individual achievements — they’re a reflection of the values that unite us all: dedication, service, growth, and community.
To Amy, Briette, Tye, Louie, and Matt — congratulations on your well-earned recognition.
But our success isn’t built by individuals alone. It’s forged in the day-to-day efforts of every team member — from the service bays to the front desk, from parts to admin and beyond. It’s the strength of the entire team that creates our momentum. Your professionalism, collaboration, and customer-first mindset are what make the difference — and what make this team so special.
🌠The Future is Bright
As we celebrate these five exceptional individuals, we also look forward — knowing that their example sets the tone for a culture of progress, purpose, and pride.
So, to every person across our dealerships — thank you. Your commitment fuels our success and defines what it means to be part of our business. Here’s to another year of setting the standard, exceeding expectations, and inspiring action — because at Toyota, anything is possible.
Jack Hobbs, Vice President TMCA, presenting David Hayes & Ben Thompson with Dubbo City & Gilgandra Toyota's 2024 President's Award.
