Behind every ATBC membership is a business built over years. From time to time we profile a member whose story says something about what the Council stands for.

Osman Kuyruk

Director, Bross Panels — Melbourne, Victoria

ATBC is honoured to have as a member this extraordinary man. This gentleman lights up the room when he attends an ATBC function. People smile, others pat him on the back, and many eagerly extend their hand to greet him.

Osman is an extremely humble, polite, generous, ethical and knowledgeable family man. His generosity is seen in his enthusiastic support of the youth within the Turkish community and his sponsorship of cultural events. It is his own personal and humble celebration of his business achievement — though that success did not come easily.

From an early age Osman had an intense interest in cars, but was unable to move into the automotive sector on completing his education, and worked night shift in a knitting factory instead. At 25, and married, he decided he no longer wanted to work in a position that did not bring him satisfaction. He approached a panel beating company in Hawthorn and offered to work with them free of charge, just to learn the trade — an unpaid panel beater by day and a factory worker by night for two years, after which he was offered a paid position.

Osman moved through different areas of the automotive industry until he established Bross Panels, which has now been operating for 30 years. In 2008 he was awarded the State and National award for the most successful small business champion in the automotive industry. Bross Panels is a leader within the panel beating industry, with close ties to most insurance companies, ensuring claims are processed promptly.

Asked about his formula for success, Osman says a person needs to decide what they are passionate about, and whether there is a profitable and economic need for that passion. A person must use their strengths and be willing to constantly learn. It is no good simply performing a job; one must aim to be the best. Living in Australia, he adds, offers a head start for all individuals, because it is a country that offers a field of positive opportunities and possibilities.

Osman is very passionate about his family, and speaks glowingly of the support and patience he received from his wife Bircan when first starting out in business. In his spare time he enjoys oil painting, is learning to play the saz, and enjoys bicycle riding on his road racer.

Osman Kuyruk is a dynamic individual, and a credit and an inspiration not only to the Turkish community but to all Australian society.