Gilbert & Roach Isuzu Legend Hits 50-Year Milestone

In an industry defined by rapid change and innovation, few can match the firsthand experience of Gary Melrose when it comes to the evolution of the Australian truck market.

This year, Gary celebrates an extraordinary achievement—50 years with Gilbert & Roach Isuzu at their Huntingwood location in New South Wales.

Back in 1975, as Skyhooks and Sherbet topped the charts, a 16-year-old Gary began his journey at Gilbert & Roach on Parramatta Road in Homebush as an apprentice mechanic. What started as a love for all things mechanical soon became a lifelong career.

From Apprentice to Industry Icon

Just three years after Isuzu Trucks entered the Australian market under the Bedford name, Gary found his place with the up-and-coming brand.

By 1989, Isuzu had claimed the top spot as Australia’s best-selling heavy vehicle brand—a position it has held for 36 years straight. In 2024, 13,402 units were delivered across the country, with Gilbert & Roach contributing a remarkable 1,122 units, leading the national dealer network.

Photo: Shinichi Hoshino (IGM President & Managing Director), Gary Melrose (Dealer Principal) & George Beattie (IGM Director of Sales & Marketing) at the opening of Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood in 2000.

“When I was a kid, I loved working on anything mechanical. To turn that passion into a 50-year career is something really special,” said Gary.

“I guess I’ve become the most experienced person in the country when it comes to the Isuzu brand.”

“I’ve been fortunate to work with incredible people over the years and continue to be inspired by the team and our customers.”

Gary credits Isuzu’s sustained success to a powerful combination of product quality, dedicated people, strong systems, reliable dealers and loyal customers.

A Career Built on Quality and Grit

Gary still remembers the early days, when Isuzu had just two models—the compact KS21 and the medium rigid SBR 50.

“The engineering in those early trucks was so good that the sales team could confidently offer them to just about anyone,” he recalled.

Starting as a mechanic, Gary steadily moved through the ranks—foreman, service department manager, sales, general manager, and ultimately Dealer Principal at a business he helped grow from the ground up.

In 2000, growing demand led Gilbert & Roach to relocate from Parramatta Road to Huntingwood. Today, the business has expanded to include sites in Gosford, Newcastle, and Narellan.

Isuzu now offers 27 model variants, serving a diverse range of industries and applications.

“Isuzu is a premium brand in Australia—it attracts good people,” Gary said. “Customers value the brand’s strong support network and knowledgeable team.”

Gary has always championed exceptional aftersales service and proudly states that Isuzu continues to set the benchmark.

“Our customers often tell us that no other brand offers the same level of support. Isuzu puts the customer first—keeping them on the road is the priority. Everything else comes second.”

Photo: Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood Dealer Principal Gary Melrose (left) with IAL Director and Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Harbison (right).

Building Futures, One Trade at a Time

Gary is a passionate advocate for trades and believes strongly in the career opportunities within the automotive industry.

Skilled labour remains in high demand across the sector, and Gary encourages young people to explore trade-based careers.

“You don’t need to be a Rhodes Scholar to succeed in this field—you need motivation, ambition, and practical smarts,” he said.

Ben Lasry, Director and Chief of Sales & Aftersales at IAL, praised Gary’s impact and dedication.

“As someone who turned 50 this year myself, I’m in awe of Gary’s career,” Lasry said.

“He’s incredibly passionate and always puts the customer first. His journey, from Isuzu’s early days to its market leadership today, is an inspiration across the network. Congratulations, Gary—50 not out, and still going strong.”

Eyes on the Road Ahead

Looking to the future, Gary is energised by what’s next—particularly the launch of Isuzu’s new model range later this year.

“Our customers are constantly evolving, and our products tend to stay one step ahead, which is a real advantage,” Gary said.

“But they’re also honest with us—we’ll know pretty quickly if we’re on the right track.”

Where once there was hesitation about technology, today’s customers want to know everything about their trucks—from diagnostics to data.

“It’s a daily challenge, but Isuzu isn’t just another truck brand—it’s a leader. And Gilbert & Roach Isuzu is ready for what’s next.”

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