From catwalks to cylinders: the Scottish Mercedes mechanic and model who calls Robina home

With two successful careers in two vastly different industries, Callum Casserly is an interesting local character.

As a Diagnostic Technician at Mercedes-Benz Gold Coast, based in the Robina Automall, he is often immersed in luxury vehicles and world-class automotive technology.

When he’s not, it’s because the Scotsman is taking to catwalks and starring in photo shoots and modeling campaigns across Los Angeles, New York and the United Kingdom.

“I’m probably one of the only technicians, if not the only, that has a mirror in their toolkit,” laughs Callum.

“My two fields of work are obviously from vastly different worlds and people often ask how I flick the switch between the two.

“My role as a technician comes very naturally to me, as I love working with my hands and getting involved in all things mechanical.

“Modeling is just something I enjoy – it’s a release and a way to express myself.”

It was the opportunity to work for a leading luxury car dealer combined with warm weather and kilometres of sparkling beaches that turned Callum’s one-year stint on the Gold Coast into a permanent move from his hometown in the Scottish Lowlands.

The 30-year-old Robina local was snapped up by the world-renowned car dealership due to his experience and knowledge of all-things Mercedes-Benz, having trained with and worked for the brand since his apprenticeship in Scotland at age 16.

When the opportunity came up to work for Mercedes-Benz Gold Coast at Queensland’s first purpose-built Automall Precinct in Robina, it was something Callum just couldn’t ignore.

“Modeling has allowed me to travel to some amazing places, but after watching a program about the east coast of Australia, I immediately fell in love with the beaches and lifestyle… it had a certain charm about it,” he says.

“With my passion for all things mechanics and specifically Mercedes-Benz – having been involved with the brand for so long – I decided to send my resume to Mercedes-Benz Gold Coast in Robina and before I knew it, was on a flight to Australia.”

Callum says he couldn’t be more glad to have made the move to the Gold Coast.

“I now get to work on some amazing vehicles, including hybrid and electric models as well as carrying out vehicle diagnostics, identifying complex faults and handling anything electrics related for new and high-voltage vehicles,” he says.

“I come from a background in BMX, motorsports, engine rebuild and automotive engineering, and for as long as I can remember, have had a genuine love for this industry.

“It’s surreal to think that I’m working and living out my dream.”

Callum says he feels privileged to work alongside his fellow Robina team members, who together work on up to 60 vehicles per day at the Automall precinct.

“One of the reasons I enjoy what I do is because of the fantastic team I work alongside at Robina,” he says.

“I feel honored to be part of a diverse team made up of highly experienced and knowledgeable men and women.

“Everyone is willing to lend a hand where needed and there is such a strong pool of talent across our workshop.

“It’s also a fantastic opportunity to learn from each other whilst working with the world-class technology Mercedes-Benz is known for.”

And as for Callum’s future plans…

“I had the intention of living and working on the Gold Coast for one year, but here I am three years later enjoying my new lifestyle in Robina with my fiancée and working a job I absolutely love,” he says.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way… and I’ll definitely keep that mirror in my toolbox.”

The Robina Group team first met Callum when he was a model on our shoot for Vue Terrace Homes.  He was great to work with and his unique dual career and interesting story stuck stuck with us and we are glad to see he is still juggling both of his passions!

Mercedes-Benz Gold Coast is located in the prestigious Robina Automall precinct at the heart of CBDRobina.  Developed by Robina Group, Robina Automall is modeled off the concept of classic American Automalls and is the first purpose-built automotive precinct in Queensland for leading automotive operators.  The Automall offers a range of new car showrooms including Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Mazda, Volkswagen, Holden, Honda, Hyundai and Nissan making it a one stop automotive destination.