If the aim is to shop locally this Christmas, then look no further than a business nearing 50 years in Gunnedah with dedicated staff that have been around for decades.

Gunnedah Autopro has had Mick Brady as its friendly owner for 24 years.

Previous owners, Frank and Wendy Foster traded as Gunnedah Auto Centre for almost their entire 23 years.

It became Autopro a few years before Mick brought it but its same expert reputation remained.

Mick decided to return to Gunnedah with his young family after living in the Hunter Valley. Purchasing Autopro in 2003 made it all possible for him.

“It has been a good venture for myself and the family,” he said. “It has been a good business. The community has supported and gotten behind us.”

He has kind words and high commendation for his staff with the likes of John Woolaston working there for 20 years, along with Andy Mack and Steve Heath as long time workers, along with Mick’s sister Narelle Douglas.

Mick’s son, Matthew, even came into the business a few months ago.

“I have been really lucky with the staff,” Mick said.

“We try to give the best service we can, service is key.

“Any business will tell you, you’re only as good as your staff and I have been blessed.”

It is not only his staff to thank, but also the local community that has supported them throughout the years.

“It is a privilege to have this business in this town,” he said.

“We meet a lot of people who come in through the door and strike up a conversation and a friendship.

“Its been really rewarding. You have people who have started with you from day one and are here 24 years later.”

The time has gone by so fast and he can hardly believe that between the two ownerships, it has been 47 years.

So why shop local? To Mick, it’s all about going the extra mile to help.

“People come here because they need help, if you don’t try to help them, you haven’t done your job,” he said.

Figuring out where to find those tricky items or parts for old machinery has been a satisfying part of the job for Mick.

While other places have machines to answer questions, they have good old fashion customer service.

As a thank you to shopping local, Gunnedah Autopro is involved with the Gunnedah Times Christmas Promotion.

Customers who spend $20 in store will begin collecting tickets and go in the draw for prizes totalling more than $6000.