Today we welcome Pat Hobson Owner/Manager of Classic Performance Servicing and Dyno to our Sunday Profile hot seat!

Classic Performance Servicing and Dyno is located in Hackham, so technically just on the Fleurieu Peninsular. Many of her customers come from Victor Harbor, Goolwa, McLaren Vale and surrounding areas.

Please tell us about Classic performance Servicing & Dyno and how the business came about.

The business was started in 2008 by my late husband, Ashley. He was a talented mechanic and tuner (reprogramming a car’s computer for better performance and/or economy) and decided to go out on his own. We outfitted the workshop, put up a big sign and commenced trading in August 2008. Fast forward 10 years of successfully servicing, repairing and upgrading many Classic, Racing, 4WD & everyday vehicles and the unthinkable happened! Ashley became sick, then sicker, had surgery but never recovered and passed away 11^th September 2018.

Shortly after, I made the momentous decision to keep the business running. I had two loyal and experienced technicians, a workshop full of equipment and a strong desire to see all our hard work continue for as long as possible.

Where did the passion for classic cars and cars in general come from?

I had always been interested in cars; an interest I inherited from my Dad. But there is nothing quite like being married to a mechanic with a passion for classic cars AND high-performance modern vehicles to “supercharge” one’s interest.

Have you always been in this line of work, or was there a previous work life?

No & yes! I was a bank officer for nearly 40 years. I quit in 2015 to care for elderly parents and also undertook a Cert IV in Bookkeeping and Cert III in Workplace Health & Safety so I could be more valuable to our business. Those last 3 years were very happy, productive and profitable, working alongside my husband.

You live on the skirts of the Fleurieu. Is this where you grew up? 

I live in Huntfield Heights which almost Fleurieu I think! But I was born in England and, like so many “POMs” during the ‘60s, we immigrated to Elizabeth. I lived there and Salisbury until 1992 when I moved to Victor Harbor for 8 years to work in a local bank branch. Victor Harbor became my “spiritual home” and I visit at every opportunity, including to visit my late husband’s mother.

What is it that makes you proud of the place you live and work?

I love the community spirit in the far southern suburbs and Fleurieu. Neighbours and other business owners all seem to be very supportive of each other. It’s a very positive atmosphere in which to run a business.

On a more personal note, tell us a little about Pat and what you love to do out of work …. (OK if you prefer not too!!!):

Pat is 61 and confesses to being a crazy cat lady and looking forward to retirement! I love working, don’t get me wrong. I have loved the challenge of learning new skills, applying old ones to a new industry and the camaraderie & teamwork with “My Guys” (two of the best mechanics in town IMHO!) However, the idea of having time to myself to socialize with girlfriends, go shopping on a whim, spend time pottering in my garden, reading a good book and perhaps, when possible, to go travelling again, is VERY alluring!

What is something many locals would not know about you (that you are willing to share!)

I practice yoga and meditation whenever I can. Both have been profoundly useful in dealing with the stress of losing a loved one and running a business that’s a tiny bit outside my comfort zone!

Anything else you would like to share?

I just want people to know that we are here to take care of their every automotive need. Our mission is to be their “One-Stop-Mechanical-Workshop”. Our Code of Conduct states that we will always act with integrity, honesty and transparency. We like to form relationships with our customers so that they feel confident in referring us to their family and friends.

YOUR TOP TIPS for the Fleurieu Peninsula / Kangaroo Island:

Best place to....

• Grab a quick bite…Anywhere in Willunga or McLaren Vale
• Have a more serious feed…The Victory Hotel, Sellicks Hill
• Get a cuppa…The Meeting Place, McLaren Vale
• Have a beer (or cold drink)…Hmmm….not sure, not a beer drinker!
• Taste some wine (or just enjoy the winery atmosphere) ...Coriole, McLaren Vale
• Go for a dip…Silver Sands because you can take your car onto the sand with you!
• Explore nature…Hindmarsh Falls – hidden beauty spot

When I’m on the Fleurieu and/or KI, I…

• feel…at home!
• always make sure I visit… My Mother-In-Law of course! Chiton Retirement Village
• stock up on… Fresh fish from the mobile fish monger, Pt Elliot on Saturday mornings

Weirdest thing that’s happened to me here:

Lying on the beach, just around from Petrel Cove, totally alone except for one inquisitive Petrel!

Best memory of being here:

My brand-new house in Victor Harbor in 1992, minutes from beach, hills, friends, community, fresh air!…. (nearly) the best 8 years of my life.

Most colourful character I’ve run into:

My Mother-In-Law! The most colourful, alive, trendy 81-year-old I know (despite losing her eldest son, bless her)

My best piece of advice for anyone heading to the region:

Take your time, enjoy the freshest air anywhere in SA, the best food & wine and mostly, the nicest people you could ever hope to meet. 

Find out more about Pat and her business here:

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