Will Caddick: My Life in the Garage

I was born in Parramatta, Western Sydney, to a hard-working dad who worked on the railways and a mum who took care of our home. Growing up in the suburbs, I learned early what it meant to work hard and provide for your family.

When I was 17, I started working part-time at Mick’s Garage in Parramatta. I began by sweeping floors and helping out wherever I could. Little did I know, I was learning the ropes of a trade that would become my life. Mick, my mentor, taught me the basics of mechanics, and I was hooked from the start.

After two years of hard work, I completed my apprenticeship as a mechanic. Mick and the mechanics I worked with were great—always patient and eager to teach me. Their support and guidance helped me become a qualified mechanic, ready for the next challenge.

I married Judy, the love of my life. We had known each other since we were kids. We rented a small fibro house in the suburbs, but it didn’t matter; we were building a life together.

After working for other mechanics for years, I finally had enough saved up to open my own shop. I called it Will’s Auto Repairs. It was small, just a two-bay workshop, but I was eager to get started. Judy was a big help, supporting me through the process and assisting with the paperwork. It wasn’t much to start with, but it was ours, and I was excited to get to work.

The day Peter was born was a game-changer for me. Judy and I were over the moon to welcome our first child. Life became a whole lot busier, but it also gave me a new sense of responsibility. It wasn’t just about running the workshop anymore—it was about building a future for my family. I couldn’t wait to show him the ropes, and even though he was just a baby, I knew he’d be part of the business one day.

With a new baby on the way, I needed a better car for the family. My old one just wouldn’t do anymore. I found a second-hand Ford Falcon GT (1967) and figured it was the perfect fit—not only for getting us around but also to help build the image of my workshop. A car like that in front of my shop would show customers I was serious about what I was doing. It was a practical choice, but it also felt like a reward for all the hard work. It was a new chapter for my family—and for the business.

Judy had a miscarriage, and the doctors recommended removing her uterus to prevent further complications. It was a difficult time for us both, but Judy stayed strong, and we got through it together. It brought us closer, and we supported each other through the pain.

Business was good, so I decided to expand the shop to four bays. It became the go-to place for locals in Parramatta. Judy played a huge part in making this happen—she helped with the planning and even took care of some of the administrative tasks. I took pride in knowing that my shop was known for honest work and reliable service.

I was proud to drive my 1967 Ford Falcon GT in the Parramatta Bicentennial Parade. The car, which I’d spent countless hours restoring, was more than just a vehicle—it was a symbol of my journey, my passion, and my hard work.

When Peter turned 16, he started working alongside me at the shop as an apprentice. It felt like the natural next step for him. He was always interested in mechanics, and just like me at his age, he had a real talent for it. Watching him grow in skill and confidence over the years made me proud. By the time he was 20, he was as good as I was, if not better.

I knew it was time to give the shop a name that reflected our growing family business. We weren’t just a workshop anymore—we were a father-son team. So, I decided to change the name to “The Caddicks Auto Repairs”. It was a way to acknowledge the work Peter had put in and to mark the beginning of a new chapter. We were ready to take the shop to new heights together.

John married his high school sweetheart, Helen, after years of being together. They’d known each other since their teenage years, and their bond had only grown stronger with time. Their wedding was a beautiful celebration of love, and it meant the world to me to see them so happy. I watched my son, who had always been full of promise, grow into a loving husband, ready to build a family with Helen. I couldn’t be prouder of how far he’d come.

John and his wife, Helen, became parents for the first time. Holding my grandson, Ethan, in my arms was an incredible feeling—it made me realize that all the hard work I’d put into the shop would eventually be passed on to the next generation. As my grandson grew, I started thinking about the future and how I’d pass down everything I’d learned over the years.

Peter and Helen had their second child, Lucas. The shop got even livelier with the two grandsons around, and I couldn’t wait to show them how things worked. The family was growing, and I could see the next generation coming in to continue what I’d started.

For Ethan’s 10th birthday, I wanted to give him something special—something made with my own hands. So I built him a custom BMX bike in the workshop. Painted it black and gold, just like my old Ford Falcon GT. The look on his face when he saw it—pure joy. Said it was the coolest bike in the whole neighbourhood. Best part? He still keeps it in the garage like it’s a prized possession.

Lucas turned 7 today. He’s always hanging around the workshop, asking what every tool does. So I put together a small toolbox just for him—real tools, not toys. Marked his name on it and everything. You should’ve seen how proud he looked, carrying it around like a proper little apprentice. I reckon he’s got the Caddick blood in him too.

After 51 years of running my shop, and I am now 70, I retired from full-time work. I handed the reins over to Peter. It was bittersweet, but I knew the shop was in good hands. I still came in a couple of days a week to help out—couldn’t stay away for too long.

It’s hard to believe, but today marks 50 years with Judy. We celebrated with the whole family, and the kids surprised us with a weekend getaway to the coast. Just the two of us, finally some time to ourselves. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner through all these years. She’s been with me through thick and thin, and I still can’t imagine life without her. Here’s to the next 50.

With the pandemic in full swing, I learned how to use Zoom to stay connected with the family. I never thought I’d be using technology to chat with my grandkids, but there I was, seeing their faces on the screen when we couldn’t meet in person. It wasn’t the same as having them in the shop, but it worked.

Ethan turned 18 today. Bright kid—more into computers than carburetors. For his birthday, I gave him a top-tier laptop and paid for a coding course he’d been eyeing. He gave me the biggest hug. Told me he’s thinking of starting something of his own one day. Whatever he builds, I know he’ll make us proud.

My family surprised me with a classic car show for my 80th birthday. My 1967 Ford Falcon GT was the star of the show, and it made me feel like a kid again. I took a spin around Parramatta, just like I did back in the day, and I couldn’t have been prouder.

Lucas hit 18 today. Always hanging around the shop, asking the right questions. He’s got that same fire I had at his age. So, I did what felt right—I handed him the keys to the Ford Falcon GT. Fully restored and roaring. Told him, “She’s yours now, look after her.” He was stunned. Said, “I’ll make you proud, Pop.” I know he will.