Global recognition for Ford dealership owners

BENDIGO Ford owners Travis and Donna Holt have received global recognition for their philanthropic work in the community.

They were named 2026 Ford Salute to Dealers honourees by the Ford Motor Company.

The award has been recognising dealers making a difference in the lives of others for 26 years.

First honoured across the Southern Hemisphere for their work, the Holts were then selected from more 10,000 Ford Motor Company dealers worldwide as global winners.

Henry Ford III, who presented the award to the couple in America, said it was the most prestigious award a dealer can receive.

A custom watercolour portrait of the couple is now displayed at Ford World Headquarters in Detroit, Michigan

The Holt’s commitment to community has included supporting the funding of a da Vinci Xi surgical robot at St John of God Bendigo Hospital and raising funds for Bendigo Health Hospital in neurology, cancer care and mental health services through the Bendigo Ford Fun Run.

They have also supported opportunities for young people at the Red Energy Basketball Arena, and work alongside Bendigo Family and Financial Services to provide food relief and financial support to families doing it tough.

The Holts thanked Ford Australia for giving them the opportunity to give back to Bendigo and surrounding areas.

“Seeing first-hand how much small acts of support can mean to someone really changed us,” they said

“It stopped being something you do from time to time and became something you carry with you every day.

“Being involved in disability personally has given us the experience that opened our eyes to just how powerful compassion, care, and practical support can be, giving us a greater understanding and stronger navigation skills.

“It’s one of the reasons we feel so strongly about doing what we can to make life a little easier for others.”

The spirit of generosity extends beyond the Bendigo Ford dealership.

“When we see our team come together for a local cause, it reminds us that this business is about so much more than cars,” they said.

“We are incredibly proud of our Bendigo team, it’s all about people looking after people, and that’s what makes this so meaningful.”

The Holts hope their story inspires others in the community, especially young people, to take that first step towards helping others and being involved.