The following business proprietors were Gold recipients of the Lord Mayor's Commendations in 2016.
David Beanham – Modak Motorcycles
Trading classic British motorcycle parts for 40 years
Modak Motorcycles was first opened in 1930, trading spare parts from the initial store at 342 Elizabeth Street, and relocating to 299 Elizabeth Street in the early 1970s. David Beanham’s father purchased the business in 1955, and it has remained in the family ever since.
Specialising in older British machines like Triumph and Norton, Modak Motorcycles supplies motorcycle parts across Australia.
David has been running the business for the past 40 years, working alongside his mother Jean – who recently passed away – also a platinum award winner of the Lord Mayor’s Commendation.
Dennis Burke – D&J Burke Diamond Setters
A hidden gem in the Manchester Unity building since 1971
After finishing an apprenticeship with Warmans Diamond Setters in 1968, Dennis Burke moved into the Manchester Unity building to work for Lino Sibilla, and after eight years he moved a few doors down to work for Cliff Stephen. In 1976, he took over the business and D&J Burke was born.
For more than 40 years, D&J Burke has been happily tucked away in the rabbit warren corridors of this historic Collins Street building, providing top quality diamond setting services.
Despite its ‘hidden’ location, Dennis’s reputation and close relationships with local suppliers have seen the store build a very loyal and ever-growing client base.
Jill Gould – INDIGO
Keeping girls well-dressed for more than 40 years
Since 1973, INDIGO has offered contemporary fashion while staying true to its signature past.
Jill Gould has been keeping Melbourne’s girls well-dressed from her store at 234 Collins Street for more than 40 years. In recent years, the business has expanded to include a flourishing online presence and boutique stockists across the country.
From panelled denim flares and tribal wedding dresses in the 70s, to baby doll dresses in the 90s, INDIGO has always remained true to Jill’s vision – a little fashion, a little sweet, and a little sexy.