In a fast food world, it's hard to find an expert behind the counter but not at Mount Isa's biggest specialised trade mechanical supplies business, The BOSS Shop.
Owner George Alford and senior salesperson David Tierney have more than 20 years experience in the business. If a part exists, they'll find it.
"People get frustrated at supermarket style parts stores where staff barely know what's in stock and not a lot of product knowledge," said BOSS Shop administration assistant Louise Alford.
"Our people are highly knowledgeable and recognise that country people need parts quickly to get vital machinery going again fast. If they can't get the exact part straight away, they can also suggest 'workarounds' or substitutes to get you by until the right item arrives."
With outlets at 54 Miles Street, Mount Isa and 26 Ramsay Street, Cloncurry, The BOSS Shop's name stands for Bearings, Oils and Specialised Supplies.
Our stock runs from air tools to wrenches, wheels to bearing kits and circlips to seals with an emphasis on quality parts. "We refuse to stock cheap and nasties," says Louise. "When your livelihood or perhaps your life depends on your equipment, country people realise the value in quality."
BOSS's toughest find wasn't for use on the land, though, it was special wheels for shower chairs at the Laura Johnson Nursing home in 1998. "Without using the internet, the boys had to source wheels from an unknown supplier, with a special taper and meeting specified safety standards," said George.
The BOSS Shop also supports the community with sponsorships for such popular local events as the Cloncurry Show Ringer's Rally, Outback Show Princess Quest, Queensland Police Citizens Youth Welfare Association, Camooweal Camp Draft and Rodeo, and the Gregory Canoe Race.