He began his career at the family-owned business on August 22, 1980 after having worked as a mechanic in West Wyalong and also spent six years at Toyota in Cootamundra. 

He started under Sid Chambers with John Chambers now at the helm of the business and his son Jason working there. 

Mr Basham said it has been a great place to work; that’s why he stayed on for so many years. 

“It is a family business and they have treated me like one of the family over the years,” Mr Basham said.

Together with fixing vehicles in the workshop, he has also been part of the NRMA callout team attached to SG Chambers. 

Among the many brake pads changed, engines serviced and systems tested have been more obscure jobs, keeping life interesting for Mr Basham. 

He once jump-started the XPT train saving the holiday and business plans of hundreds of passengers! 

He has also seen vehicles change from old points to fuel injection to today’s computerised systems. 

Over his years, Mr Basham has looked after about 10 apprentice mechanics, showing them the ropes of an industry which has been good to him. 

“I’ve seen a lot of people come and go and I’m proud to say everyone who has left has left as a friend,” Mr Basham said. 

He had always had an interest in mechanics, having tinkered with motors as a kid. 

This interest grew throughout his school years and he was left in no doubt about his career path when it was time to enter the workforce. 

His father had been a mechanic during WWII fixing cars. 

It was a time not many cars existed and thus there were few people qualified to maintain or repair them.

Retirement for Mr Basham means more time spent with family. 

He and wife Gail have purchased a caravan and plan on seeing more of Australia when she also retires, calling in on children Tim in Wagga, Sheree in Junee and Ryan in Perth along the way. 

Mr Basham said he is also looking forward to more time with his five grandchildren.