our story

We are a small local business proudly run by Noel Chevalier.

Noel started his journey back in 1968 when he began his mechanical apprenticeship with Gilbert Motors in Mt Barker. After he completed his apprenticeship he spent many years working as a mechanic and truck driver in numerous locations. Then in 1985 he established an LPG fitment and Mechanical Repair store. During this time he noticed a lack of industrial supplies in the Mt Barker area and decided to do something about it.

So in 1988 he opened the first SA Bearings and Maintenance Supplies store in Mt Barker. From here the business grew and in 2012 he decided to expand to Nuriootpa. In 2018 he expanded again through a sub-branch in Tailem Bend.

To keep with the times, the stores have expanded and updated throughout the years. When he first opened the store in Mt Barker, the store had a more limited range of bearings and automotive spare parts. However, in 1995 the automotive parts were discontinued to focus on industrial supplies and to expand into hydraulic and brass fittings, bolts and nuts, trailer parts, farming hardware, and more areas better suited to current demand.

Noel continues to be present in both the Mt Barker and Nuriootpa store, working one day at each shop every week.

Alongside Noel, Mt Barker now has 6 staff, all with different backgrounds and skills, eager to help customers find what they are after. The Nuriootpa store has 2 staff, both very knowledgeable and also sure to find what you are looking for.