Insights

For the fourth year running, Burdekin local, Karl Moschella, a highly-regard Service Technician from our Ayr branch has been named a finalist in the prestigious John Deere Technician Awards. One of just 5 finalists nationally in the Agricultural Service Technician of the Year category, Karl’s 23 years of dedication has made his name synonymous with John Deere expertise in the Burdekin region.

Karl’s path to becoming one of Australia’s top agricultural John Deere technicians started early, well before his apprenticeship began at Honeycombes in 2002. Growing up in Ayr, he was often found in his father’s automotive workshop, developing hands-on skills and a strong work ethic. By high school, his mechanical aptitude was so well known that teachers would require his help to repair the school’s ride-on mower. “I’ve always had a genuine interest in all things mechanical,” Karl recalls. “I would stay back after school and assist as needed.”

Since completing his apprenticeship, Karl has successfully become a John Deere Master Technician, Backup Technical Communicator for Honeycombes, and Field Service Technician based in Ayr. Karl also co-ordinates the pre-season maintenance program for sugar cane harvesters for all Honeycombes branches, across North Queensland.

Karl’s contributions extend beyond the local area. In 2018, he was invited to the John Deere factory in Thibodaux, Louisiana to support quality control improvements in the sugar can harvester assembly line, a rare honor that speaks to his expertise. “There are so many highlights in my career working with John Deere Machinery.” He said. It’s the culmination of a career built on dedication, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

As part of the final judging process, Karl will travel with Wyatt, another Honeycombes finalist for Parts Technician of the Year, to Brisbane on 15 September to undertake on-site testing alongside other national finalists. The winners of each category will be revealed at the John Deere Technician Awards Gala event on 18 September, where Karl hopes this year will be the one he’s crowned victorious.

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