Warner Fork Trucks of Adelaide has been in the family for the past 35 years. Owners Graham and Lilian Warner retired 18 months ago, secure in the knowledge that the business was in the capable hands of their own flesh and blood.

The company, which claims to be the largest wrecker of forklifts in Australia, stocks a range of parts for Hysters, Clarks, Caterpillar, Towmotor, Komatsu, Datsun, Nissan and Toyota as well as new engine parts for Continental, Ford, GMC and Perkins.

The Warners' middle daughter, Shelley, who calls herself the 'bossy one', manages the business side of things, while youngest daughter Debbie handles the workshop orders and pick-ups. Eldest daughter Karen has recently left, but had spent the last 28 years with the business. And that's just the second generation!

Grandsons Ben and Nick work for the company as diesel mechanics, while Brodie runs the engineering shop, including overhauling water pumps, steer axles and tilt cylinders. Also a diesel mechanic and uncle to the three boys, Gary keeps an eye on the workshop.

Not that patriarch Graham Warner has managed to stay away from the business. Explains Shelley: "He's been handing down crucial bits of knowledge to us over the years, and continues to guide us whenever needed."

She believes the business benefits hugely from having so many family members involved. "We're all committed to keeping the good name of the company going, and as a result, business has never been better.

"We offer great back-up service with a warranty and our knowledge is second to none. Customers know that when they walk through the door, we're going to come up with a solution for their requirements."

The company's turnover last year was A$1.5 million and Shelley attributes their success to the fact that they're the first port of call for small businesses and farmers who can't afford new equipment. "We keep their old machinery going with the spare parts we stock, and they keep our business going by always coming to us."

It's not all about work though. In their spare time, Ben and Nick race sprint cars, proudly sponsored by Warner Fork Trucks.