THE AADA lifetime achievement award for Joe Camilleri acknowledges his involvement in the automotive industry that dates to 1967 when he moved from Mackay to Brisbane to begin a career in motor racing.

Joe opened his first business in 1970 and in the ensuing half a century, Grand Prix Mazda has won 25 awards as a Mazda Master Dealer.

While best known as a Mazda dealer, Grand Prix has also carried the Ford, Jaguar, Peugeot, Rover, Leyland, Mini and Citroen brands.

Joe’s son Luke succeeded him as Grand Prix Mazda dealer principal, and Luke’s son Kyden joined the dealership in 2019, making it a three-generation family business.

Joseph and Jake, Joe’s two other sons, run the family dealerships in Caboolture.

Like so many dealers, family and business are entwined for Joe, and this award is recognition of the entire Camilleri family’s contribution to the retail motor industry.

The AADA said that having three generations of Camilleris in the business is a testament to the success of Grand Prix Mazda, and a testament to the values the Camilleri family champions.

The culture of the business is built on diligence, reliability, and the happiness of the customer.

“This award is also an acknowledgement of the institution Grand Prix Mazda is in Brisbane, and the contribution the company has made to the community, supporting various charities and local police stations, RSLs, football clubs and golf clubs,” the AADA said in its presentation of the award.

“More than half a century of success is a lifetime achievement in any business. Congratulations Joe Camilleri.”

By Neil Dowling