By BRIDGET SCOTT
THIRTY years on and its time for Peter Willis to put down the chainsaw and turn off the tractor, as he prepares to shut up shop in Beaconsfield.
It will be the end of an era for the Clyde North resident who started the Beaconsfield Mower and Tractor Centre in 1984 out of an old cottage and old garage.
Mr Willis grew the business from two staff members to 20 and said owning the company had given him endless opportunities.
“I’ve done a bit of everything,” he said. “This has exceeded all expectations.”
Mr Willis, who was born and bred in Nar Nar Goon, left school to pursue an apprenticeship in diesel and tractors.
“I left school as a 15 year old that didn’t know much and came out with a good career and a rewarding one too,” he said.
After he attempted to sell his business, the owner was disappointed that nobody bought it and was left with no choice but to close it down.
Mr Willis said part of it will live on, as the small engines department will most likely be taken over and run down the road.
While many farmers throughout the area will be sad to see the back of Mr Willis, a group of adoring grand-kids are looking forward to seeing more of their grandpa, while he is also excited about the next phase of his life.
“I want to search the horizon with my motor home,” he said.
Mr Willis will official lock the doors after Saturday 12 April, but not before a huge auction which he has planned for this Saturday where all stock must go.
The auction will kick off at 8am and more details can be found at www.beacmowertractor.com.au
