From Overalls to the Open Road: Celebrating Tony Govender’s 48-Year Legacy at CMH Ford Durban

In a world where careers often change as quickly as technology, Tony Govender stands as a rare symbol of loyalty, passion, and perseverance. After an incredible 48 years as a mechanic at CMH Ford Durban, Tony is finally hanging up his overalls — but not his love for the open road.

This is the story of a man who didn’t just repair cars; he built a legacy that spans generations.

A Family Under the Hood

For the Govender family, the love for engines runs deep. Tony, a 65-year-old grandfather from Verulam, inherited his passion from his father, Harry. His journey began at just 10 years old, helping his uncle tinker with cars in Overport.

By 17, ambition drove him to walk to the Ford dealership on Umgeni Road and ask for a job. Despite his youth, the supervisor saw something special and gave him a chance — a decision that would shape nearly five decades of excellence.

Tony’s influence didn’t stop at the workshop. His younger brothers learned the trade under his guidance, and today his daughters, Kailene and Celeste, continue the family tradition with pride. Even his grandson, Kyan, shows signs of inheriting the gift — often identifying cars simply by the sound of their engines.

Adapting to a Changing World

Nearly five decades in the automotive industry means Tony has witnessed a transformation like no other. He began in an era of pure mechanics — when diagnosing a problem was as simple as listening to a car over the phone.

Today, the industry is dominated by digital diagnostics and complex software. While many might have resisted the change, Tony embraced it wholeheartedly.

“You have to adapt or you’ll be left behind,” he says with a smile. “I was lucky — I’ve always loved cars, so learning the new trades was never difficult.”

The Secret to a 48-Year Career

What kept Tony at the same workbench for almost half a century? It wasn’t just the paycheck — it was the craft.

A true enthusiast, Tony spent his spare time modifying Ford Escorts and Cortinas, including a beloved Ford RS 2000 that he eventually traded for a family car. His advice for the next generation is simple yet profound:

“You cannot be lazy in this field. The work is hard but rewarding — it all depends on your dedication.”