Our Clients

Wangaratta Engineering has been at the forefront of providing leading-edge mechanical production and on-site solutions since Heath Lloyd took the reins in 2017. 

Heath’s journey with the company began in October 1997, working his way up to manager by 2010. When the opportunity to purchase the business arose in November 2017, Heath seized it, and since then, Wangaratta Engineering has continued to grow and thrive under his leadership.

The company offers a diverse range of services, including fitting, jobbing production, machining prototyping, heat treatment projects, presswork, drilling, welding repairs, internal and external keyways, splines, and light fabrication. 

Serving both local and international industries, Wangaratta Engineering’s expertise ranges from repairing industrial and farm machinery to designing and manufacturing of new parts from plans and drawings. 

With a team of 12 dedicated employees, the business is focused on continuous improvement, investing in modern machinery and process development to stay ahead in the competitive engineering sector.

Wangaratta Engineering and Johnsons MME

Wangaratta Engineering’s relationship with Johnsons MME spans over two decades, beginning when Tracy who was his accountant at Chisholm Partners and is now part of the Johnsons MME team. 

This continuity of service provided a strong foundation when Chisholm Partners merged with Johnsons MME in 2021, allowing Heath to seamlessly continue working with the people he trusts.

A significant turning point came when Heath and his wife purchased their dream block of land, only to be offered the chance to buy Wangaratta Engineering just four weeks later. 

Despite the financial risks of taking on both the business and the property simultaneously, Heath chose to prioritise the business. Tracy’s expertise was instrumental in navigating the complexities of the purchase, providing the support needed to make this ambitious move possible. Thanks to this decision, Heath and his wife were eventually able to build their dream home in 2023, on their terms.

In 2024, Heath and his team achieved another milestone by purchasing the factory where Wangaratta Engineering operates — a goal they had initially set for 2027. The opportunity to purchase the factory arose when the site owners offered Heath first option. Johnsons MME played a key role in providing advice on structuring the finance, ensuring alignment with Wangaratta Engineering’s long-term goals, tax considerations, and the overall vision for the business.

Wangaratta Engineering continues to rely on Johnsons MME for expert tax guidance, occasional MYOB support, and business advice as needed. This trusted partnership has been a cornerstone in Wangaratta Engineering’s ongoing success, providing both stability and foresight as the business grows.

A Word from Wangaratta Engineering

“Having worked with Johnsons MME since the Chisholm Partners merger, nothing much has changed for us, which is great. The merger became a name change only. As a client, we haven’t noticed any difference in how we work together, and we see a long future together.”

Heath Lloyd

Evans Asphalt and Earthworks was established in February 2011 by Mark and Belinda Evans when Mark wanted to take control of his career after working in the industry for many years.

Initially, the business subcontracted services to other companies in the local area of Albury Wodonga. The business quickly grew thanks to Mark’s extensive industry connections and expertise, while Belinda, a former teacher, took on the administration side of the business.

Over time, Evans Asphalt and Earthworks expanded, employing 2-3 additional staff members within 4-5 years and renting machinery to deliver their services. Support from companies like Nordcon, which provided space for storing machinery, was crucial during these early years.

Today, Evans Asphalt and Earthworks provides a range of services, including the construction and repair of:

• Roads
• Driveways
• Netball courts
• Car parks
• Sub-divisions, such as Avalon Park and Whenby Grange in the Albury Wodonga region.

Over the years, Mark and Belinda have grown the business so it now employs 10 staff members, operates 4 work vehicles (utes), and owns 25 pieces of machinery. They have also established a depot in West Wodonga.

This growth was significantly supported by Johnsons MME, who provided essential guidance, forecasting and business planning services.

Evans Asphalt and Earthworks and Johnsons MME

Evans Asphalt and Earthworks has developed a strong relationship with Johnsons MME over the years. This partnership has been instrumental in supporting the growth and success of Evans Asphalt and Earthworks.

One of the key benefits has been the training sessions for Belinda Evans, which have covered:

• Payroll
• Superannuation
• General bookkeeping
• GST

These sessions have equipped Belinda with the financial knowledge and skills to manage the business effectively. By understanding payroll, superannuation, general bookkeeping, and GST, Belinda can ensure that the financial side of the business runs smoothly, allowing Mark to focus on their core services. This comprehensive understanding also helps in making informed business decisions and planning for the future.

Every year, Evans Asphalt and Earthworks holds a meeting with Johnsons MME. During these sessions, Johnsons MME take the time to review the past year’s performance with Mark and Belinda Evans. They break down the financial data and business metrics into everyday terms, making it easy for them to understand and reflect on their progress.

Following the review, Johnsons MME present forecasts for the upcoming year. This forward-looking approach allows Evans Asphalt and Earthworks to plan accordingly, set realistic goals, and make well-informed business decisions. The guidance and insights provided in these annual meetings are crucial for their strategic planning and continued growth.

One of the advantages of working with Johnsons MME is they are a larger accounting firm, which allows them to provide specialist expertise. This expertise has been invaluable to Evans Asphalt and Earthworks, particularly in areas like fuel tax credits, which has saved the company between $5,000 and $10,000 per year.

Johnsons MME’s proactive approach ensures that Evans Asphalt and Earthworks is always informed about beneficial accounting practices and regulatory changes, helping them stay ahead and operate more efficiently.

A word from Evans Asphalt and Earthworks

“JMME work alongside us. They are helpful and supportive. I really do think proactive is an apt description of the team. They help us operate efficiently and positively. We know what we’ve been doing and where we’re going. We feel supported by them.”

Belinda Evans

Celebrating 40 years in business, David Hanckel Cabinets (DHC) is a family-owned and operated cabinetry company based in Albury.

Established in 1984 by David and Jan Hanckel, the business has grown from a small operation to a thriving company with 18 employees. Originally occupying unit 2 on Metry St, Albury, they expanded to unit 1 as their operations grew, eventually occupying the whole premises (3 units).

Brendon and Scott Hanckel, the sons of David and Jan, now helm the business. Brendon serves as the Operations Manager, ensuring smooth factory operations and timely project completion. Scott, the Sales Manager, is responsible for bringing in new projects, jokingly stating he keeps bringing work until “Brendon’s eyes pop out with all the work.”

DHC offers a blend of commercial and domestic services, specialising in custom-designed kitchens for renovations and diverse commercial projects. They employ advanced 3D rendering software to provide clients with a clear visualisation of their kitchen designs, including personalised layouts with their furniture.

David Hanckel Cabinets and Johnsons MME

DHC has a longstanding relationship with Johnsons MME, leveraging their expertise in accounting and advisory services.

When David and Jan Hanckel decided to retire, the succession planning process was a critical phase for DHC. This transition was uniquely significant as Rod Mullavey, a now-retired JMME Director who shares the same birthday as Jan, was also retiring. The retirement of both Jan and Rod at the same time added a personal connection to the business transition.

Rod introduced Dale Goonan to the Hanckel family, and Dale has since become an invaluable advisor, offering strategic guidance aligned with the company’s vision. The seamless transition was further supported by Joy Lee, who had been involved with Rod, supporting DHC for years, ensuring continuity and smooth handover of responsibilities.

Additionally, Johnsons MME played a crucial role in DHC’s purchase of their business premises through their Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF). Rod introduced the appropriate advisors to guide the Hanckel Family through the process, ensuring everything was handled correctly.

Today, Dale and Joy work with DHC, providing regular management reports, helping Brendon and Scott monitor their progress and stay aligned with their goals. Dale’s similar age to Brendon and Scott allows him to provide relevant, forward-thinking ideas, and his feedback helps the brothers evaluate the viability of their plans.

A Word From DHC

“We have always found the team at Johnsons MME to be friendly and easy to work with.

The team has always been relatable and on the same page with where we want to get to as a business.

Johnsons MME understands our goals and provides support on where and how to achieve them.“

Brendon & Scott Hanckel

Enhance Physio believe everyone deserves to live their best life. They stand out in the physiotherapy space by offering both general and specialist physiotherapy services to help people live better lives.

Recently, Enhance Physio have added specialised services for Lymphoedema from their Wodonga clinic to help clients reduce swelling, improve mobility. and enhance their overall well-being.

Enhance Physio also offers Vestibular Physiotherapy for vertigo, dizziness and balance problems, as well as Women’s Health and Paediatric services. They are proud to offer the most up to date evidence-based assessment and management with the latest cutting-edge equipment.

Enhance Physio’s commitment to excellence is evident through their highly trained physios. The range of services provided by Enhance Physio exemplifies their purpose of prioritising their people and improving the healthcare of all.

Enhance Physio and Johnsons MME

Prior to its establishment, Matt and Nathan, the founders of Enhance Physio, were determined to create a business that valued people over numbers, driven by a vision to look after their own people and to treat patients holistically. Their ambitious goal to treat 50,000 people by 2032 was set against this backdrop.

From the outset, Enhance Physio forged a strong relationship with Johnsons MME. Aidan Jenkin was instrumental in setting a solid foundation for Enhance Physio’s journey, guiding Matt & Nathan with:

• the development of a robust business plan
• financial forecasting
• advising on costings.

Since opening in Albury in November 2016 with just Matt & Nathan, Enhance Physio has expanded significantly, employing 30 people and with clinics also in Wodonga, Lavington, and a recent venture into Waverley Park.

With Johnson MME’s continuous support Enhance Physio has been able to focus on their core mission of improving healthcare and prioritising their people. This support has included benchmarking, tax planning, corporate restructuring, and digitising their operations.

In particular, digitising to utilise cloud-based accounting has delivered operational efficiencies through automation of bank reconciliations and processing of employee superannuation. Digitisation has also provided access to real-time data allowing Matt & Nathan to focus on the big picture and achieving their vision.

As a result, they are well on their way to achieving their 10-year goal, having helped over 17,000 people in the Albury-Wodonga community so far.

A Word From Enhance Physio

“We’ve always believed that a focus on people is the key to success. Working with Johnsons MME, we found not just an advisor but a partner who shares our values.

Aidan and the team’s tailored support from day one has been invaluable, helping us to not only grow but also maintain our commitment to people and community.

Johnsons MME feels like an extension of our team; their personal approach makes all the difference. They’ve enabled us to focus on what we do best – caring for our people and our patients.”

 

Matt, Enhance Physio

Lewis Dickson Homes is a family-owned and operated building company with an outstanding reputation for integrity and uncompromising building quality. Pictured: Facade of new display home opening on 6th April 2024.

The company was formed in 2020 through the merger of two local building businesses, Lewis Homes and Dickson Builders. John Lewis from Lewis Homes decided to reduce his workload after 30 years in the industry, paving the way for Reece Corcoran and James Dickson to step in. 

Reece had been with Lewis Homes for 13 years, and James was looking to expand his own business (Dickson Building). The merger was a strategic move to combine the strengths of both businesses.

Lewis Dickson Homes employ local trades people with the emphasis on quality from start to finish. Showcasing a large range of standard designs, Lewis Dickson Homes also offer an in-house design team who can design to suit your custom requirements, while also committing to making the design energy efficient.

Lewis Dickson Homes and Johnsons MME

We asked Reece Corcoran about working with us. He commented:

“As the existing accountant for Dickson Builders, Stephen Hogan, from Johnsons MME was involved with navigating the merger. 

Johnsons MME provided structure advice relating to asset protection, tax minimisation, risk management, and future succession. They prepared the necessary documents to obtain Warranty Insurance, which is vital to operate as a builder. And they assisted setting up new software and provided initial and ongoing training as required.  

Four years on, with Lewis Dickson Homes managing their accounts in-house, Johnsons MME now provide more strategic services through Jane Bowran and Stephen Hogan. This has included advice in regard to asset purchases, regular reviews of the business and finance figures, the provision of advice to legally minimise taxes and ensure a profitable business.” 

Achieving goals together

The ongoing success of Lewis Dickson Homes is a great example of how working closely with an accounting firm who understands your goals can contribute to your ability to navigate challenges and make the most of any opportunities for success.

The relationship between Lewis Dickson Homes and Johnsons MME is rooted in our commitment to achieving goals together. It is reflective of a mutual understanding of the importance of strategic financial planning and advice in realising long-term business objectives.

Pictured: Facade of new display home opening on 6th April 2024.

Indigo Power is an electricity provider based in the Border region.

They offer local customers a competitive electricity retail offer with generous feed in tariffs to support customers who own a solar power system (NSW 12.0 c/kWh and VIC 7.2 c/kWh).

You don’t have to have solar to join and it only takes 5 minutes to switch. For further information about joining Indigo Power head to their website, indigopower.com.au.

Indigo Power has three divisions.

• an electricity retail team
• a clean energy project management service
• a community service that manages and maintains clean energy assets like community batteries and public electric vehicle charging stations.

Indigo Power has about 950 community shareholders and is a certified social enterprise, which means that 50% of any profits go back into our local communities to support more community clean energy initiatives.

Ben McGowan, the Managing Director of Indigo Power says about working with Johnsons MME…

“Ours is an unusual business, and given we’ve a large amount of shareholders we need a high quality accounting service.

 

JMME’s service has been thorough and careful. The checks and balances they have in place as a part of their accounting process means that we have every confidence in the financial statements we present to our auditor and our shareholders every year.

 

JMME are my recommendation to other businesses for accounting services, especially those businesses looking for a smooth audit process.

 

For a reliable accounting service you can rely on Johnsons MME, but for well-priced electricity and the best local service reach out to Indigo Power today.”

Who is Mcorp Building Services?

Mcorp Building Services (Mcorp) has been in operation for over 18 years.

They assist a wide range of commercial clients with:

• office fit outs
• building condition audits
• minor works, assisting the facility managers in coordinating trades for work. This includes:
  • air conditioning system replacements
  • carpet and painting
  • general base building upgrades.

Additional services that Mcorp provide include:

• clearing out offices, factories and sites
• recycling redundant items by listing them online for sale via Grays online.

The aim here is to seek secondary use for items that would otherwise be simply dumped into hard waste.

Mcorp facilitate the end to end process of completely clearing out these sites including assistance with Make Good at the end of Lease.

How Mcorp Building Services and Johnsons MME have worked together

We asked Paul Comensoli what working with Johnsons MME has been like. Here’s what he said.

Mcorp transferred from another local firm to Johnsons about 12 years ago.

At the time we were considering a Melbourne accounting firm as we are based in Melbourne.

However, our work covers most of Regional Vic and we have always found communication and interaction with JMME from afar as no problem.

2020 and most of 2021 have been challenging years for most businesses and we are no exception as we have simply not been able to allow the general public access to many sites.

This effectively closed that portion of our business, which is a significant component of our turnover.

During the past 18 months, in particular, Johnsons MME have been rock solid in their support and assistance in many ways.

Gary and the team have provided:

• assistance in seeking government funding
• writing letters of support
• looking out for opportunities for assistance with support
• keeping in regular contact and offering encouragement during the difficult times
• Of the greatest assistance, JMME were able to assist our cash flow significantly with flexibility around fee arrangements. This in particular was so incredibly helpful.

Without the assistance of JMME , the stress and strain of the past 18 months would have been significantly worse.

What does the future look like for Mcorp?

As we start to come out of lockdown, Mcorp have an upcoming online sale of ex government farm machinery and equipment at the former Rutherglen Research Station.

Mcorp are now looking forward to opening up their full business services again and are feeling positive about the future.

Johnsons MME look forward to continuing to work with Paul and the Mcorp team to support their ongoing success.

We were new to the business world and were very nervous about embarking upon our new venture, Big River Roofing.

Our accountant and business advisor, Paul Goonan from Johnsons MME helped to settle our nerves pretty quickly with his professional advice and business planning ideas to support our dream of running our own successful business.

Paul is always there to help us make decisions to move our business forward.

Most of all Paul gives us the confidence as business owners, taking away the worry because he is there every step of the way.

Dean Mount, Big River Roofing