Where It All Began – The Early Days of Wayne Phillis Ford
Where It All Began – The Early Days of Wayne Phillis Ford
Long before digital showrooms and online enquiries, there was a bold headline in The Advertiser:
Now!! Christies Beach has a new Ford Dealer!”
In July 1985, Wayne Phillis Ford officially opened its doors at 127 Beach Road, Christies Beach, marking the beginning of something special for the southern suburbs of Adelaide.
It wasn’t just another dealership opening. It was a commitment — to service, to community, and to doing things differently.
Taking a Punt on the South
The early newspaper feature told the story of Wayne “taking a punt” on the growing southern region. At the time, the south was expanding rapidly, and Wayne saw what others didn’t — opportunity, families building futures, and a community ready for a dealership that genuinely cared.
From day one, the focus wasn’t just on selling cars. It was about:
- Employing local people
- Supporting the community
- Building long-term relationships
- Delivering exceptional service
That philosophy still drives us today.
The First Birthday Party – And What a Party It Was!
In 1986, Wayne Phillis Ford celebrated its 1st Birthday — and true to form, it wasn’t a quiet one.
The ads said it all:
FREE BBQ
LIVE BAND
FREE DRINKS
FREE POPCORN
FREE STICKERS
It was more than a sales event — it was a community celebration. Families came down, kids enjoyed the festivities, and locals experienced something different: a dealership that felt welcoming, energetic and part of the neighbourhood.
By 1987, the confidence was clear.
The headline read:
“NEW FORD HEAVILY DISCOUNTED – HUGE 2ND BIRTHDAY SAVINGS”
Fairmont Ghia.
Falcon GL Sedan.
Telstar TX5 Ghia.
Laser 1.6.
Massive savings. Sharp pricing. And one strong message:
No one outguns Wayne Phillis Ford.
It wasn’t just marketing. It was momentum. The dealership had found its stride, built trust in the market, and was rapidly becoming the go-to Ford dealer in Adelaide’s south.
From 1985 to Today
What started at Christies Beach in 1985 has grown into one of South Australia’s most respected automotive groups.
While the vehicles have evolved — from Falcons and Lasers to today’s advanced SUVs, hybrids and electric vehicles — one thing hasn’t changed:
The Wayne Phillis commitment to community and customer service.
We’re proud of where we started. We’re proud of the team who built it. And we’re proud to still serve the southern suburbs decades later.
Because this isn’t just our history.
It’s our foundation.
