Big Rigs 11 April 2025

Operation reveals safety issues and exploitation

A joint two-day blitz in South Australia revealed a raft of concerning safety issues and the exploitation of migrant workers, said the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

The NHVR teamed with South Australia Police, the Australian Border Force (ABF) and SafeWork SA for Operation Vigilant at the Monteith Checking Stations with 32 NHVR Safety and Compliance Officers (SCOs) conducting 75 targeted intercepts. It was the first time the four agencies had worked together on a local operation.

NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said more than half of all heavy vehicles stopped on the Princes Highway were found to be non-compliant – with offences ranging from self-clearing defects to major violations.

“Unfortunately, there were 38 defect notices issued throughout the operation, three of which were classified as major, with the most prevalent offences being mechanical defects such as faulty brakes, and issues with steering and suspension, and wheels, tyres and hubs,” Salvati said.

“SCOs also issued one official warning and three in fringements, including for a s

serving as a clear reminder for drivers to ensure they aren’t driving tired.

To ensure drivers understood how to comply with their safety obligations, Salvati said SCOs provided education during 24 of the intercepts, guided by the NHVR’s inform, educate and enforce approach.

of safety and compliance related resources available to help with education, including guidelines, training videos and contacts for support.”

ABF officers from the Department of Home Affairs conducted checks relating to migrant worker exploitation, identifying “four individuals of concern”.

Pfeffer said the operation was important in monitoring the heavy vehicle industry’s compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act and indicates that the industry has more work to do.

We encourage industry to access the NHVR website, where we have a wide range

Among them were two unlawful non-citizens and two individuals suspected of breaching visa work conditions. As a result, one person was detained, while another was granted a bridging visa to facilitate their departure from the country.

It is a criminal offence to employ, refer or contract a non-citizen who doesn’t have the right to work in Australia.

SafeWork SA Director Compliance and Enforcement Brett

“Our inspectors issued 75 improvement notices relating to breaches of the WHS Act. These ranged from defective, poorly maintained or absent fire extinguishers and first aid kits to non-compliant vehicle maintenance and load restraint maintenance.

“A further five notices were issued in relation to carrying dangerous substances.”

SA Police Acting Inspector Tiffany Gray said South Australia Police will continue to have a coordinated approach to heavy vehicle regulation and welcome the support of partner agencies.

Hume safety blitz nets 118 heavy vehicle offences

A two-day Hume Highway blitz by Victoria Police last month resulted in 450 offences detected, including 22 a lcohol and drug impaired drivers.

With two major checkpoints at Glenrowan Rest

A rea and Bentons Hill Rest Area, Operation Radihus was aimed at both light and heavy vehicles.

The operation comes after 17 lives were lost across East-

ern Region Division 4 last year — eight in Wangaratta and nine in Wodonga — and 169 people suffered serious injuries from motor vehicle collisions.

The multi-agency operation involved uniform, local and state Highway Patrol officers, local detectives, Dog Squad, and partner agencies including the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), Safe Transport Victoria, and

the Department of Transport and Planning.

Police conducted 4900 preliminary breath tests and 584 roadside drug tests, resulting in three drink driving and 19 drug driving offences.

There were also 17 drivers clocked travelling more than 25km/h over the legal speed limit.

The 450 offences detected during Operation Radihus included 118 heavy vehicle

offences. Of those caught out doing the wrong thing was a 64-year-old unlicensed truck driver from Craigieburn.

He was bound for Sydney but intercepted by police in Cobram.

The truck driver failed a preliminary oral fluid test.

Victoria Police alleges he admitted to officer that he had travelled via Cobram to avoid the police operation.

Police also located and

seized methamphetamine and valium.

The driver was charged for offences from an incident in January this year, including make threats to kill, and unlawful assault.

He was bailed to appear at Broadmeadows Magistrates Court at a later date.

He is also facing multiple heavy vehicle national law offences and a possible fouryear licence disqualification.

There were 38 defect notices issued throughout the operation,

Major ‘non-conformity’ issues revealed

BRAKES, lights and reflectors are the major non-conformity issues for the industry, according to the results from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) annual National Roadworthiness Survey (NRS).

During the 12-week long survey, 9082 vehicles and combinations were inspected nationally – an average of 103 heavy vehicles each day –making it the largest in-depth “health check” of its kind ever conducted, said the regulator.

Of those units inspected, 33 per cent had at least one non-conformity, which the NHVR report describes as a “small but significant” increase from 31 per cent in 2021.

The incidence of non-conformity remains well below 2016 levels, the NHVR added.

“The majority of non-conformities were given at most a minor defect notice (i.e. the continued use of the vehicle on road poses a safety risk, but the risk is not deemed as imminent or serious), the report said.

“The highest level of non-conformity was minor for 21 per cent of units, a slight increase from 19 per cent in 2021. There has been a slight increase in the incidence of highest level of non-conformity being a self-clearing defect (i.e. the use of vehicle on road does not pose a safety risk, but

a defect exists) from 6 per cent to 8 per cent.”

Overall, 75 per cent of units passed inspection (i.e. the highest level of non-conformity was a self-clearing defect or the unit had no defect). This remains stable from 75 per cent in 2021.

Non-conformity did not differ greatly between units inspected in their state of registration and those inspected interstate (33 per cent and 31 per cent, respectively).

Brakes were the most common non-conformity issue across metro and regional Australia with 14 per cent, the same total as 2021, followed by lights and reflectors on 10 per cent, up slightly from 9

per cent in the last NRS taken in 2021.

“The NHVR is still concerned that defects in brakes remains a top issue, and I would like to take this opportunity to remind operators and drivers of their responsibility to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and daily vehicle checks are conducted,” said NHVR Chief Operating Officer Paul Salvati.

Structure and body, engine driveline and exhaust and steering and suspension, are also in the top 5 most common areas of non-conformity.

“The 2024 NRS was a monumental undertaking, and the important effort of our offi-

cers conducting these inspections has provided us with the most comprehensive data ever gathered on the mechanical health of heavy vehicles across the nation,” Salvati added.

Nationally, 75 per cent of units passed inspection, which was the same percentage as the 2021 survey, continuing the strong improvement over the 2016 benchmark survey of 55 per cent.

“Unfortunately, the number of units having multiple defects was slightly higher in comparison to the previous survey, up to 33 per cent in 2024 from 31 per cent in 2021,” Salvati added.

“However, the non-compli-

ance percentage remains well below the 2016 levels which is pleasing to see.”

Salvati said the sheer scale of the 2024 NRS has allowed the regulator to see where the NHVR and industry are making improvements in safety and where more attention is needed to focus regulatory efforts and future safety initiatives.

“We know that these inspections did result in a longer than normal intercept time [an average of 30 minutes], and I wanted to thank industry and drivers in particular for their patience and support while we undertook these crucial checks at the roadside.

“I know the impacts of this survey will enact positive results on the efficiency and productivity of the heavy vehicle industry, including safer roads for all road users.”

When Big Rigs first published the survey results on-

line, many readers were left wondering when the same ‘ruler’ was going to be run over the poor state of the roads, which has an adverse impact on safety and truck maintenance.

“When do they start the blitz on those responsible for the state of the roads,” asked Jeff Dawson.

“All well and good that fees and charges continue to rise for operators, which are supposed to be funnelled back into the roads. These bureaucrats talk a big game, but the road toll proves otherwise.”

Ron Williams wondered how truckies could issue a defect notice for a poorly maintained or built highway.

“The only good roads are the freeways running between Sydney and Melbourne, and Sydney and Brisbane, and Melbourne to Adelaide, etc, because that’s where the most ratepayers and voters are,” he said.

TRUCK SHOW

The survey was the largest in-depth “health check” of its kind ever conducted. Image: NHVR

The NHVR said the latest National Roadworthiness Survey shows where to focus regulatory efforts and safety initiatives.

Mixed signals for industry before election

GARY Mahon, a leading voice in Australia’s road freight industry, has expressed mixed reactions to the federal budget, highlighting both promising developments and missed opportunities for the sector.

The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) CEO welcomed the boost to the Bruce Highway funding, but voiced disappointment at the end of the $20,000 small business instant asset writeoff on June 30.

Speaking to Big Rigs on the day Prime Minister Anthony Albanese formally announced May 3 as polling day, Mahon was also frustrated to see no specific money allocated towards training initiatives for drivers, particularly in support of apprenticeships, to address critical shortages.

On a more positive note, Mahon said the $70 million allocated to finalise the sealing of the Kennedy Development Road is a timely industry boost.

It gives operators another route into Far North Queensland when the Bruce and Gregory are “knocked out” due to weather events, as has happened recently.

“It adds quite a few hundred k’s but at least you can get in,” he said.

“The problem with that road is that 11.5 kilometres of that road [the Kennedy] are dirt so if there’s rain around it’s knackered as well.” Mahon is now calling for the sealing to be completed before the next wet season.

As for the $9 billion in funding to fix the Bruce – $7.2 from the Albanese government and $1.8 billion from the state – Mahon said he’s encouraged by the $300 million in early works announcements made last month.

Of that money, Mahon said $100 million has been allocated to designing how the first $1 billion will be spent, while the remaining $200 million will be spent in the next few

weeks on actual fixes. He said all the money is baked in, re gardless of who wins at the polls on May 3.

“There’s an expectation that a further $700 million [in works] will be underway be fore the year is out,” said Mahon, who is also a member of the Bruce Highway Advisory Council.

“Brent Mickelberg [the state Transport and Roads Minister] has been quite public in that he wants to make sure the $9 billion is spent over the next six years.

“That’s money in addition to what was already assigned to the Bruce.”

Mahon expects the first works to start between Gympie and Townsville and focus more on safety features, such as wide centreline marking,

overtaking lanes, intersection treatments, more rest areas, and the like.

North of Townsville, he said the QTA will be lobbying for more flood-proofing treatments.

“What we’re saying is that the first priority north of Townsville to Cairns has to be treatments that relate to all- weather reliability.”

Meanwhile, peak body Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) said the gov-

national competitiveness, the transition to net zero emissions, growing the future workforce, enhancing road freight productivity and optimising Australia’s road infrastructure.

While Treasurer Jim Chalmer’s fourth budget included a raft of high-level initiatives across energy, manufacturing, small business and road infrastructure, it stopped short of addressing HVIA’s specific concerns.

“The lack of targeted measures that directly address the issues faced by our sector is disappointing and indicates that both we and the federal government have a lot more work to do,” said HVIA CEO Todd Hacking.

ernment has to do a lot more to support Australia’s heavy vehicle manufacturing industry following the release of the budget.

In late February, HVIA distributed a detailed list of Federal Election Priorities to all 227 Federal MPs and Senators – the summary of which was published in the March 14 issue of Big Rigs It called for government assistance to address specific pressing issues such as inter-

“As such, we will continue to advocate for the needs of our industry at all levels in the lead-up to the federal election, calling for direct support as per the many practical and implementable actions listed in our election priorities.

Adam Ritzinger, HVIA’s Chief Technical Officer, said that while many budget announcements will assist industries adjacent to heavy vehicle manufacturing, he also laments the lack of direct ac-

QTA CEO Gary Mahon had a mixed

tions revealed on last month’s budget night.

“The announcements bestaligned with HVIA’s priority areas were increases to the ‘Future Made in Australia’ package, including green metals, clean technology manufacturing and low-carbon liquid fuels, as well as the separate tax incentives for hydrogen production, the expansion of funding for the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and improvements in road infrastructure,” he said.

“What we desperately need though, and what HVIA has called for, is direct support for truck and trailer manufacturers, support for the private sector to deploy battery electric charging and hydrogen refuelling stations nationwide, incentives to offset the higher cost of purchasing low-emissions trucks and the expansion of high-productivity vehicle networks.

“Without that direct support, our industry will continue to face headwinds in its efforts to decarbonise, improve efficiency and provide the equipment necessary to keep the lifeblood of Australia’s economy and society pumping.”

Western Australia’s peak road freight body, the Western Roads Federation (WRF), was also less than impressed with how the industry fared

WA was left out in the cold.

Citing a report in The West Australian that day, he noted that the state received just 11 per cent of the infrastructure funds allocated to Victoria alone.

“In fact, WA, NT and SA combined barely received 25 per cent of what has been allocated to Victoria,” he said.

Dumesny said the state fared even worse with roading which he said decreased by nearly 33 per cent, while other jurisdictions all received significant spending spikes.

He was also disappointed to see that there was no identi-

FEDERAL ELECTION 2025

Truckie sounds FTC alarm

‘HERE we go again’, was truckie Clynton Hawks’ first reaction to Peter Dutton’s budget reply announcement that the Coalition will halve the fuel excise for 12 months if they win on May 3.

Without a corresponding reduction in the road user charge (RUC), Hawks said Dutton’s proposal will repeat a disastrous similar move by Scott Morrison in 2022.

fied measure to address the

ern Australia, South Australia

“However, a billion dollars was allocated on a road blitz in marginal or vulnerable federal seats in the western suburbs of Melbourne.”

In its budget night summary, the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) also highlighted the personal tax cuts – down from 16 per cent to 15 per cent from July 1, 2026, and to 14 per cent from July 1 – and the ban on non-compete clauses for those earning less than $175,000. It also noted that ASIC will receive $3 million over four years to improve its ability to crack down on illegal phoenixing.

At present, operators can claim a fuel tax credit (FTC) of 20.1 cents per litre (cpl), being the difference between the 50.6 cpl fuel excise rate and the current RUC of 30.5 cpl.

When the fuel excise rate is lower than the RUC, they can’t claim any, and Hawks said that’s a recipe for disaster.

“We saw under the previous Morrison government that halving excise and removing the FTC for a period of six months did nothing other than raise fuel and freight prices and we saw many transport companies shut the doors,” Hawks said.

“They need to half the road user charge as well so we can continue to claim the fuel tax credit.”

The North Queensland

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the state of the road network.

“I’ve just come back from a month on the Flinders High way and it’s atrocious.”

Hawks said currently a medium-sized transport company might be claiming $4200 for 20,000-litres of diesel on its quarterly business activity statement: “Take that way, that’s a bit of a loss.”

Queensland Trucking Association CEO Gary Mahon also warned that if the RUC isn’t halved under Dutton’s proposal, it will also cause freight prices to increase.

“Fuel pricing might dip a bit, but from the Morrison experience, it’s highly unlikely to dip to the same extent that the government has reduced the excise, so in effect our people are paying more and also not getting a

Association is heartened by Dutton’s speech night pledge to consult with industry first.

“Working with industry, we will ensure that heavy vehicle road users also benefit from this measure,” Dutton said. NatRoad, meanwhile, said the industry can’t afford another FTC hit.

“About 98 per cent are small businesses and average profit margins are just 2 per cent; they lack the bargaining power to simply pass on costs,” said CEO Warren Clark. He said that unless FTCs are protected, the benefits of lower excise will not flow on.

“Instead, many in the industry that keeps Australia’s shelves supplied could face financial ruin.”

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Without direct support, HVIA said industry will continue to face headwinds. Image: See Less/stock.adobe.com

The QTA graphic spells out the FTC scenarios to industry.

IN BRIEF Young operator pops the question

Award nominations open

Nominations are officially open for the Women in Industry Awards to be presented in Melbourne on June 19.

The categories include an Excellence in Transport prize which recognises an individual who has gone above and beyond to improve and positively impact the Australian transport industry.

To nominate someone you know who is driving change in the road freight industry, visit womeninindustry.com.au.

Nominations for all categories close on May 9.

Garbage truck cameras

Wollongong has given the green light to ramp up the use of high-tech cameras on its garbage trucks to spot potholes and issues that need fixing on its 1000km of roads.

The council undertook an initial 12-week trial of the technology, known as Intelligent Defect Management (IDM), to determine if damage to roads could be identified earlier, work prioritised and repaired in a timely manner.

The trial captured defect data via cameras installed in six Remondis waste collection trucks and a further four council vehicles. All the vehicles travel regular weekly routes and, together, cover around 90 per cent of council’s road network each fortnight. Since the implementation of the trial, more than 800 potholes have been identified and repaired.

Fines increased to $4633

Drivers of overlength vehicles who enter Galston Gorge will now face harsher penalties, including increased fines and demerit points.

The penalty for driving an overlength vehicle in Galston Gorge will skyrocket from a $2818 on the spot fine to $4633, and from six to 12 demerit points.

Transport for NSW (TfNSW) Deputy Secretary of Safety, Policy, Environment and Regulation Sally Webb said, “When a long vehicle gets stuck in Galston Gorge, the road is typically closed for about two hours which can cause major delays and can be difficult for response crews to rectify.” Since early 2020, TfNSW has detected and issued fines to over 800 overlength vehicles in Galston Gorge.

Haulage road reopened

The private Pilbara haulage road used by Mineral Resources (MinRes) to transport iron ore 150km from its Ken’s Bore mine to Port of Ashburton has reopened after a temporary closure.

There have been six reported truck accidents on the busy route since August, the latest last month when the rear two trailers of a 330-tonne triple road train rolled. The driver was uninjured.

Two days later, after receiving a notice from WorkSafe WA regarding “controls and risk-mitigation of the road train operations”, MinRes briefly paused haulage.

Operations kicked off again after “constructive discussions with WorkSafe WA”, the company told shareholders.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

IT was a double celebration for livestock owner operator James Papworth, who recently walked away with the keys to his brand new Kenworth T659 – and a new fiancé. James, 28, proposed to his partner of several years, Laura Beer, at Twin City Truck Centre in Wodonga. He had a special note planted in the passenger door of the T659 that read: “Will you ‘Keep on Keepin on’ with me.” He then got down on one knee and asked Laura to marry him, to which she said, “Yes!”

As James explained, the note was in reference to the name they had given to the truck. “I had the proposal planned for a fair while, unbeknownst to her. There was only one other person there who knew about it and that was the lady who videoed it for us.

“Laura had no idea, so it was a big surprise. She never expected it at all.”

The go-getting young

truckie began his career in transport as a diesel mechanic. “I grew up working on a farm in Holbrook, New South Wales. Dad has his own local transport business and carts cattle. I left school and worked on the farm for a couple of years, then I did my trade,” James said. He then made the decision to move to the Northern Territory for two years to work and study. During his time

there, he built cattle yards, drove trucks and successfully completed his Certificate III in Agriculture.

After deciding to make truck driving his career, James got his MC licence in 2019 and joined Martins Stock Haulage as a driver.

“I moved to Scone and got the job with Martins – and didn’t look back. I was there for about four or five years. I started off transporting cattle for a couple of years and then went on to carting sheep. I was travelling right across the east coast – from the bottom of Victoria all the way up to Central Queensland,” he explained.

A nd it was during that time that James’ professionalism and dedication to the industry was formally recognised. In 2022, James was named Young Driver of the Year at the annual Livestock and Bulk Rural Carriers Association (LBRCA) conference.

He made the decision to go out on his own in July 2023, when he purchased his first

truck – also a Kenworth T659 and a B-double stock crate.

With that, his business Papworth Livestock was born.

“Laura and I were going to travel to America and the day before we paid for the trip, this opportunity came up to buy our first truck. We bought the truck and cancelled the trip,” James said.

While it hasn’t always been an easy ride for James, the purchase of his new T659 was an exciting milestone.

“My partner and I have been through a fair bit in the last 12 months and she’s always stuck by my side, so I wanted to do something really special for her,” said James.

“Laura says that we’ll never be able to sell this truck because it has a fair bit of sentimental value now.”

Laura works full time as a school teacher, along with assisting James with the business. “We live in Wagga and she works really hard. Along with being a school teacher, she does all the paperwork for the business and organises

a fair bit of that sort of stuff. Laura is the brains of the whole show,” added James. After picking up the new T659 on Saturday, March 29, James took it on its maiden run to the town of Junee, in the Riverina region of New South Wales.

“It’s very similar to the older T659 I had but I’ve dressed it up a bit better, with a nice paint job,” said James. “It’s a great truck to drive. I don’t think I’d change a single thing on it. Twin City Truck Centre were also fantastic to deal with – nothing was a drama.” James says about 70 per cent of his work involves carting sheep, while the remaining 30 per cent is cattle transport. “I enjoy working with livestock, particularly with sheep. I do a lot of paddock work, carting to meatworks.”

With the new truck now on the road, Big Rigs asked if a date had yet been set for the couple’s big day. “Not yet,” said James. “We’re taking it one step at a time!” he laughed.

Wettenhalls marks 100 years with special truck

TO celebrate the extraordinary milestone of 100 years in business, Wettenhalls has unveiled its centennial truck and trailer.

The story of Wettenhalls began in 1925, with a young man named Reginald Amezdroz. He was working as a cream tester and boiler attendant at Bulla Dairy in Colac, Victoria. With Bulla’s perishable goods needing to be transported to Melbourne each day, the company needed someone with a truck to do the job.

Reginald put up his hand, with his first load being 29 steel cans of cream – equating to around 1500 litres. With no refrigerated system to keep the load cool, it was instead done with the use of ice blocks!

After four years, Reginald entered into a business partnership with Roderick Menzies and they established a new company called Amezdroz & Menzies by 1931. Through the 1930s, the business continued to grow – expanding the fleet and extending its reach, eventually becoming a leading carrier in the western district. By 1947, the company grew to have a fleet of 10 trucks, and Reginald’s sons Ned (Frederick) and Bill joined the company. With its larger trucks, the

ber, groceries and hardware –in addition to dairy.

All the while, it continued to provide transport services to iconic Colac business, Bulla Dairy – a partnership that continues going strong to this day. It wasn’t until the 1960s that they purchased their first refrigerated van.

The first Kenworth prime mover joined Amezdroz & Menzies in 1967, allowing the company to deliver even larger loads.

The business experienced continued growth over the decades and purchased another carrier, Wettenhalls, in 1997.

As the Wettenhalls’ name was better known nationally,

Wettenhalls employs close to 400 staff, operating a fleet of over 170 vehicles.

The newest of those trucks is the new milestone Kenworth T909, paired with a trailer covered with photos that show the company’s history.

“As part of our 100 year celebrations in 2025, Wettenhalls are excited to unveil our centennial truck and trailer – a tribute to a century of progress and a symbol of our ongoing commitment to excellence,” the company shared online.

“This stunning new addition to our fleet represents the perfect blend of heritage and modernity, showcasing cutting-edge technology while honouring the legacy

that has defined

over the years. From humble beginnings to becoming a leading name in transport and logistics, our journey has been driven by the passion and dedication of every team member, partner, and customer.

“As we reflect on this century of success, we also look ahead to the future.

“We remain committed to upholding the values that have defined us: integrity, reliability, and a forward-thinking approach to every challenge.”

The happy couple, James Papworth and Laura Beer. Image: Laura Beer

James got down on one knee to pop the question. Image: BrandJam Creative

James’ new blinged-up Kenworth T659 and Laura’s new engagement ring. Image: Laura Beer

Wettenhalls

Charlie Menzies and Bill Amezdroz.

Reginald Amezdroz (right) with the first truck he used for the daily Bulla cream run into Melbourne.

Sleeper Cab Cooling and Heating

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

ens up from here, we promise. I only wish I could also assure you of an easier ride after election day on May 3. Lots of people in higher places are trying to put a positive spin on the ‘spoils’ from the budget, but from where I sit, you’d need pretty big rose-tinted glasses. Yes, it looks like we’ll see definitive short-term improvements along the Bruce, finally.

But when you drill down into the road spending, most of it is directed into areas where Labor needs to lock up the electorates with motorists. There was nothing we didn’t already know about rest area spending, and zero for employers looking to take on trainees or apprentices.

For months now we’ve been kicking around the idea of a dedicated good news issue, celebrating all the positive stuff in the industry. May might be a good month to do it.

WHAT’S HOT ONLINE Budget

Improving health screening for truckies

OUR online story last month about the National Transport Commission (NTC) releasing a new discussion paper that aims to “better support truckies health and to promote road safety”, sparked vigorous debate on our Facebook page.

Initiated at the request of Australia’s Infrastructure and Transport Ministers, the paper explores options for improving early detection and management of health conditions that impact the safety of drivers.

It also asked for truckies to have their say on the screening process. Below are just a few of the reactions we got from readers.

Something needs to change

Here’s the problem with truck drivers going to see a doctor. We can’t get an appointment because we don’t know when, or for how long, we will be home. Second, most of us will have a rough idea when we will be home but nothing is guaranteed so when I need to go see a doc I always ask for a Monday morning or late Friday afternoon appointment. Back in late October 2023, I hurt my knee climbing out of my truck and put it down to getting old. After a month of it not getting better, I booked an appointment with my doctor and the first available

appointment was two weeks away so I took it, told my boss I needed to be home and got in to see the doctor. Turns out I had torn the cartilage root off the bone and needed surgery, but to get that diagnosis it took over six weeks of getting scans and other appointments due to work schedules.

Come late December I get a call from the surgeon to say the first available appointment was next week, then he was on holiday until late January with surgery happening early February, no matter what appointment I took. The January appointment was a Tuesday morning so I booked it.

The doctor was appalled at me for taking so long to come see him and asked why I took so long. When I explained the situation he was again appalled at that situation. So, I think what we need as truck drivers is the ability to turn up at a hospital and ask to see a doctor whenever we need to, but have it so we have to prove we are truck drivers to stop everyone else abusing the service.

Niell Graham

Start investing where it counts

Here we go, another government grant funded program

that does absolutely nothing for drivers.

These associations that have so much power with govern ment bodies don’t give a f about drivers. But the government keeps throwing money at them with these useless programs.

Imagine what would hap pen if we took away all these BS grants and redirected that into roads and decent truck-only rest areas with fa cilities.

Leanne Dyer

It’s a very long list

The list is a looongg one… and this is only the things that came straight to my head.

1. If you want to improve the health of truck drivers, you need doctors that understand the lifestyle. You can’t even get a doctor to understand a bloody driver’s medical these days, let alone anything else. And make these doctors t hat understand the lifestyle accessible. I dunno, t hrowing random ideas around here and speaking out loud, maybe travelling buses that move around from truck stops, like the breast screen van?

from a highway, with shit, rubbish and God knows what strewn all around the place.

3. Safety at rest areas. How can someone sleep comfortably when they could be assaulted or have equipment tampered with?

2. Improve rest areas and facilities.

No one should have to sleep pulled off 5 metres

5. Truck stop kitchen facilities - the basics that every employee gets, a microwave, instant hot water, cold fresh water, etc.

6. Truck stop bathroom facilities - clean, tidy, showers a nd toilets. Go to Canada and America and see how they do it! Their truckstop facilities leave ours for dead!

4 Truck stops that actually have HEALTHY & A FFORDABLE meal options available 24/7! You mention cardiovascular disease and diabetes, but what options do most truck stops have? Deep fried foods sitting in a food warmer for hours on end or Maccas and KFC.

Amanda Herringe-Brown

US does it right I was reading up a while back about the US truck stops. Sure, they would be privately owned, but within the complexes they often have doctors, dental and other services, like hairdressers. How hard would it be to have a room set up at different truck stops here, where a s part of medical training, someone gets sent out to do walk-ins?

Shane Gibbs

The NTC project focuses on three high risk conditions that can affect commercial vehicle drivers. Image: NTC

End of an era for Burnie icon

BY JAMES GRAHAM

AN iconic second-generation container transport operator – legendary for treating drivers like part of the family – has quietly closed its doors after 66 years in business.

The announcement marks the end of an era for one of Tasmania’s longest-running family transport businesses.

Tim Norton, who has been at the helm of the company for decades, confirmed the April 11 closure during a recent interview with Big Rigs “I don’t need to, but I am going to retire,” Tim said,

reflecting on his difficult decision after 45 years in the transport industry.

The business, which began as FF&L Norton - named after Tim’s parents, Frederick Forrester, aka Bob, and Lorraine Norton - started from humble beginnings.

Tim recalled how his father, who started out driving buses, launched with a single Ford meat truck in 1959, making deliveries from their Moody Street home around the Burnie butcher shops before gradually expanding their services to Hobart and then onto the West Coast

Butcher shops. The business saw significant growth from the back of the first trailer Bob built himself.

“When one door shut, another opened and he’d walk straight into it,” Tim said.

When Australian National Line pulled out of Tasmania and Brambles arrived, Tim said that’s when the transport company “went bang”, building a reputation for reliability and quality service.

“We got to 10 trucks pretty quick and there were plenty of drivers around, good ones.”

At its peak, Norton Trans-

port operated a fleet of 15 trucks, though in recent years, the operation had scaled back to six vehicles, primarily handling container work.

“We have seen a lot of change,” Tim added.

Nortons had only two fulltime drivers toward the end –both had job offers for work within 24 hours of the news breaking – with three or four casuals on call, as work demanded.

“The full-timers told us they wouldn’t take those jobs until they knew we had closed the doors.”

Tim said he never thought about selling the company as a going concern.

His son Andrew and wife Judy worked alongside him for 25 and 32 years respectively, but the trio decided it was time for a clean break.

Andrew said it’s a good little business with good infrastructure, but he just can’t see a future in it with all the red tape and lack of loyalty.

Reflecting on the trucks he’d owned over the years, Tim counts 50 in all, 37 of those Scanias, some bought

off Laurie Kelly from Launceston.

Tim says he hasn’t thought about what he’ll do next. He’ll spend more time on restoring a 1977 single axle Scania, one of the company’s hardest-working and most reliable truck, back to mint condition. But mostly he’s looking forward to not having to come into the depot on the weekend just to set up for the next week.

“It just goes on and on, seven

SCT Logistics expands national footprint

INTERSTATE transport

giant SCT Logistics has announced the acquisition of the Burnie-based CRE Solutions Logistics.

Established in 2007, CRE offers daily trans-Bass Strait

services to and from the state.

In a media release revealing the news, SCT said the acquisition will better enhance operations through increased presence in the markets and networks currently occupied

in both Tasmania and across the rest of Australia.

“Additionally, it enables enhanced multi-modal revenue streams for the SCT Group,” the statement added.

SCT said the founder and current owner of CRE Solutions, Chris Anderson, has built a strong reputation for outstanding customer service, flexibility, and tailored logistics solutions.

“He believes that connecting the two family businesses, which have shared cultures, will be a benefit to all CRE employees.”

Anderson will stay on with SCT to oversee the trans-Bass

GENUINE ALCOA® WHEELS

operations for “seamless stakeholder transition and continuity across service levels and business activities”.

SCT celebrated its 50th year of operation in 2024 and offers multi-modal transport and logistics solutions including rail and road linehaul, refrigerated transport, and bulk haulage rail solutions.

It was the first private rail operator in Australia to use the main interstate corridor between Melbourne and Perth.

It currently holds offices in every major capital city in the country, as well as regional locations in Queensland and NSW.

Geoff Smith, Managing Director, SCT Group, left, and CRE Solutions founder Chris Anderson.

Andrew Norton at a Redpa farm feeding cows.

One of the hard-working Scanias delivers a load of fertiliser to a shed in Burnie.

The Norton Transport fleet in front of the shed in 2018. Images: Norton Transport

Nullarbor cyclist asks for truckies’ help

BY JAMES GRAHAM

A cyclist in this year’s Indian Pacific Wheel Ride across ‘the paddock’ is calling for more collaboration with truckies to prevent further tragedy on the dangerous highway.

Kevin Paine, who’s riding by the name of Pizza Rider, reached out to Big Rigs from the road as he came through Ceduna, en route from Fremantle to Sydney in the unofficial 5500km annual event.

Paine has already crossed the Nullarbor in 2019, 2021, 2022 and 2023, and returned again last year, only to stop at Fraser Range when 62-year-old Chris Barker was killed after being stuck by road train about 190km west of the SA border.

When he returns home this year, Paine said he’s going set up a website to provide advice and information for the 100-plus who cycle across the desolate road each year and also wants input from truckies.

“I feel it’s best for the two communities to work togeth-

er, rather than be adversaries,” Paine said in an email to Big Rigs

“I’m reaching to you and others in the trucking community to have something that works well for all. Riders using hi-viz, mirrors, ultiple lights and UHF as

an example. Getting off the road when vehicles are going where you are (not a legal requirement, but absolutely recommended for the safety).”

Paine also said simple things, like a short toot of the horn or a flash of high beam at night to ensure the rider is aware of an approaching truck “would be great”.

“Riding at night is considerably safer due to lower traffic volumes and higher visibility,” he said.

Paine also said the lower temperatures, lack of sunburn, less wind, and the spectacular night sky are other reasons why night riding is popular among cyclists.

“Bicycles have been ridden across the paddock since Arthur Richardson in 1896,” he added.

“Each time I’ve crossed I’ve met riders heading in the opposite direction. There will a lways be riders on the Nullarbor. Long distance and touring cycling is a growing global trend.”

Paine said he’s hoping to start on the project in May.

Veteran interstate truckie

Robby ‘Roadtrain’ fears that it’s only a matter of time before there is another tragic accident on the Nullarbor involving a cyclist.

Robby was speaking out after witnessing first-hand the dangers for riders in the Indian Pacific Wheel Ride as he headed west on his weekly run to Perth.

He watched aghast as a road train was forced to come to a complete stop near the Nullarbor Roadhouse because there wasn’t enough space for it to safely pass the cyclist heading east and avoid the oncoming traffic.

“There’s just enough room for two trucks to pass –there’s no shoulder, but the cyclist didn’t bother to get off the road.” Robby said.

“He [the truckie] had to stop and let the other traffic go so he could go around her.

“This is becoming a weekly occurrence. They must wake up one day and decide they want to ride a push-bike across the Nullarbor, f##kn idiots.

“They shouldn’t be allowed on the Nullarbor. All they are is a travelling road block.

It’s way too dangerous.”

Robby said he can’t understand why cyclists aren’t allowed to ride on a motorway where there is plenty of room on the shoulder, but they can ride a cycle on this major freight route with next to no shoulder room.

“It’s only a matter of time before someone is killed and the poor old truckie is the one who’s going to get the blame for it.”

Truckie Damien Tsouris was so concerned for the cy clists’ safety he called the Ce duna police.

“One of the cyclists was on the fog line with no lights or high-vis in the dark. I nearly hit him as I didn’t know he was there.”

John Mulder also wrote on our Facebook page that the number of riders on the highway is “getting beyond a joke”.

“There used to be one or two you’d see a year, now it’s like six or seven each trip and they don’t wear hi-vis, but opt for the highly standout black - you struggle to see them.

law that a road train has to hit the brakes to slow for a pushbike, or veer onto the wrong side of the highway to avoid them

“It needs to be stopped before more are killed and innocent truck drivers pay the price of prison for driving down a highway trying to do their job.”

“It should be against the

Lucky escape for overheight truck in Sydney

THE driver of an oversize vehicle has heeded the warnings on a Sydney tunnel, a fter sensors detected that it was over-height.

On approach to the tunnel, the high-tech sensors triggered flashing lights and a warning on the message board reading ‘STOP’.

The sensors being trialled in Sydney scan trucks in real time and use connected warning signage to divert drivers of overheight vehicles from their routes before an incident.

Trucks taller than four metres are scanned as they pass

under the sensor, and their height and number plate information is then gathered and instantaneously displayed to drivers on the overhead Variable Message Sign ( VMS) to warn the driver.

If needed, the sensors can even initiate the tunnel closure process to prevent damage to the infrastructure –and the truck.

“After this our staff work to coordinate a safe turnaround,” said Transport for NSW (TfNSW). “This could require a tunnel closure in the opposite direction and a short-term lane closure.”

After this, TfNSW staff work to help restore traffic flow to normal.

Thankfully on this occasion the driver saw the warnings and was able to stop the truck in time.

TfNSW says this crackdown, combined with the work of the industry wide Overheight Truck Taskforce (launched in June 2023) has resulted in a dramatic drop in over height incidents in Sydney tunnels.

“In the first six months of the taskforce’s operation (July to December 2023) there was a 67 per cent de-

crease in total closure time minutes and a 32 per cent reduction in incidents, the lowest level in seven years,” said a TfNSW spokesperson.

“Over the same period, the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, the most disrupted route, saw an 80 per cent reduction in closure minutes and a 58 per cent reduction in incidents.”

The TfNSW spokesperson continued, “The reduction in incidents has continued across the network, with 57 recorded overheight incidents between March 2024 and February 2025, 44.1 per cent fewer than the previous

Slim’s widow devastated by loss of treasured Eyre Highway memorial

Mugridge, the widow of revered interstate truckie Neville ‘Slim’ Mugridge, is devastated by the news that her late husband’s roadside memorial on the Eyre Highway has been removed, feared stolen.

Slim was tragically killed, along with two other drivers, in a two-truck crash on the SA highway about 27km west of Yalata on April 4, 2024.

The memorial was made by Bruze Custom Trucks and erected at the accident site last July.

Delphine is thankful to the industry for offering a replacement, but is still shocked that the memorial inscribed with the words, ‘RIP Slim’ and ‘Legend in a Legend’ could disappear.

“Who would do something like that? It’s something so unique that nobody could say,

‘Look what I’ve got’. Everyone’s going to know now that it was stolen,” she said.

“A lot of people would slow down too because they knew there had been an accident there.”

Delphine drew some comfort from erecting a plaque for Slim at the White Hill Truck Drivers’ Memorial Wall in Murray Bridge on March 1, but said it’s too upsetting for her to visit the Eyre Highway site.

She said many truckies would pay their respects to Slim as they passed.

“A lot of the truck drivers thought that Nev was watching over them.”

Delphine said the shock news of the memorial’s disappearance – just a few days away from the anniversary of Slim’s passing – has only made her more determined to

lobby for nationwide changes to licensing pathways for international drivers.

Her online petition has already helped convince SA to lead the way, and she is drawing strength from the fact that signatories supporting her cause continue to climb –22,615 at the time of writing. She’s planning to relocate to her home state of Queensland soon, where she’s already made approaches to the state government for a meeting with the Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg in the hope of broadening a lasting

for Slim.

12-month period. This includes a further 32 per cent decrease in incidents for the

Sydney Harbour Tunnel and a 70 per cent decrease for the M5 East Tunnel.”

DELPHINE

legacy

Paine says his “outlandish” outfit helps keep him safe.

Paine takes a break at the eastern end in the 2025 ride. Images: Kevin Paine

On approach to the tunnel, the sensors triggered flashing lights and a warning on the message board reading ‘STOP’. Image: TfNSW

employer TML Transport gave Bruze Custom Trucks a shout-out for the memorial donation on its Facebook page last July. Image: TML Transport

Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis address media about the

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FMX

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Operator celebrates 100th Kenworth milestone in style

NSW transport legend Kel Baxter pulls out all the stops to ensure the latest addition to his storied Berrigan fleet is one to cherish.

BY JAMES GRAHAM

POSING for celebratory pictures between two special Kenworths, Kel Baxter reflected proudly on his long association with Australia’s most popular heavy-duty badge.

On his left was his very first new Kenworth, a “rugged” 1997 T650 that’s still working hard today, earning its keep at Kelvin Baxter Transport’s Riverina yard, and on his right, a stunning T909, his 100th truck straight off the Bayswater assembly line.

Two trucks from very different eras, but both linked by their durability and dependability, traits that have also been the cornerstone of Kel’s success over four decades.

On the shoulders of the new trucks that followed ‘No. 1’, with wife Marilyn doing the books, family support and dedicated staff, Ken has built the Berrigan-based operation into a regional powerhouse dedicated to bulk agricultural commodity freight right across the east coast.

From humble beginnings with two secondhand Kenworths in 1990, the company now boasts up to 55 trucks on the road on any one day, operating in some of the highest

p available today.

on the road with loyal truck ie Stuart Adams behind the wheel, running in a 36.5-metre, AB-triple configuration, owered by a Cummins X15

Queensland, NSW, Victoria and South Australia,” Kel said.

“I’ve taken trucks to Western Australia in the past when it’s very dry over here. We tend to follow where the grain is and that’s where the truck will go, with the others.”

Kel isn’t known for the ‘bling’ in his trucks, but admits he went all out to make the celebrated T909 a standout, leaving no stone unturned in a six-month build-up to handover day, right down to the commemorative ‘KBT 100’ rego plate.

“We decorated it up a bit more than I usually do, and I think we came up with what I think looks pretty smart,”

replaced with a big flat alloy bumper by BT Bull bars in Wagga Wagga, the fuel tanks were wrapped in stainless steel by RC Metalcraft in North Albury and the interior was customised throughout from maroon to blue.

PACCAR Australia was also able to mark the occasion with commemorative ‘Celebrating the 100th Kenworth’ plaques, inside and outside the cab, and a similar message embroidered on the seat.

“It was a privilege to be part of this 100th Kenworth handover event,” added Michael Long, Director Sales and Marketing, PACCAR Australia.

“Not only because Kel is an

done by Dean Laws Signs and the customised lights on the steps and tanks deftly handled by DMG Truck Electrics in North Albury.

“There’s a host of people involved once a new Kenworth comes out of the factory before they actually get on the road,” Ken said.

Twin City Truck Centre in Wodonga, which hosted March’s commemorative handover event, also played a crucial role in all the pre-delivery customisation.

Salesman Aaron Berkinshaw had the honour of coordinating the 100th truck but Kel a lso paid tribute to his recently retired predecessor Darren

icholl who had helped secure the 99 Kenworths that came

“Their attention to the details is very good. There is quite a bit involved in building a truck –there’s that many options. I’ve got a pretty good idea now what works amd what doesn’t – round tanks versus square tanks, for example.

“We do a fair bit of rural work and we don’t want the too lower clearance trucks.

“They [Twin City] know what we want and they do a good job, and they back it up with good service and spare parts availability.

“I think that’s one thing about the Kenworth product that’s so popular, particularly in regional areas where we do a lot of our work.”

Kel, who was recognised as a ‘Kenworth Legend’ in 2019,

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The stunning T909 is already hard at work earning its keep. Images: BrandJam Creative

Michael Long presents Kel with a commemorative trophy.

has tried other brands over the years – his first was a TK Bedford – but nothing comes close to the Kenworth’s durability and dependability in some of the toughest terrains.

“The strength of the cab stands alone,” Kel said.

“You can get similar running gear; engines, suspension and other things, but they don’t stand up to rural work as well.

“We do a lot of harvest work and are on and off farms a lot and are accustomed to that.

“If a load of gypsum or lime needs to go down the back paddock, then we know that’s where we can take it. The trucks will put up with that sort of treatment.”

Inside the cab, the driver comforts are also a long way from what the 1997 Kenworth boasted – a state-of-the-art

Custom Air air-conditioning system, microwave, TV, ample storage and standup fridge, just a few of the standout features.

“This is not the first truck

that we’ve fitted those accessories to, but we make it as comfortable as we can.

“We have drivers employed over a wide area of the grain belt, so drivers can get home on weekends, but our drivers do spend time away on the season work, which provides variation, plus good earning opportunities.”

Kel prides himself on the driver training program at Kelvin Baxter Transport and the strong core of long-term truckies on the roster.

“They work hard and they get paid well. I’ve got a lot of respect for my drivers.”

Kel concedes that is a shortage of skilled drivers across the industry.

One of the main causes, he feels, is that it’s not regarded by many newcomers as a career option.

With more of the national fleet now road trains and A B-triples, Kel would also like to see the MC licence split

into two tiers: one for those driving B-doubles, and another for those behind the wheel of a road train, B-triple or AB-triple.

“Most people can back a B-double, but plenty of them can’t back an A-double. There’s a lot more training involved there.

“You’re also going up significantly in gross weight yet there is no difference in the licence needed at the moment.”

A former chair of the Australian Trucking Association’s (ATA) Industry Technical Council (ITC) and now life member, Kel has been at the forefront of lobbying for higher productivity vehicles on Australian roads for many years.

In 2009 he donated his own equipment to run the first legal BAB Quad on NSW roads and at a similar ATA demo day at Dubbo in 2010. He has been instrumental in achieving better access for road trains in the R iverina, and beyond.

productivity vehicles that has taken place in the last couple of years.

“Supply chain costs in this country are as high as anywhere else in the world because of our distances, and we make use of the fact we can run longer vehicles.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re running by the tonne or pallet, the higher productivity vehicles do it at a lower cost.”

Kel admits it hasn’t always been easy to get those in charge of the road and bridge network to see the benefits for the freight industry, and in turn, the end consumer. Although there have been significant breakthroughs in recent years, many as a direct result of Kel’s advocacy, he says the permit process is still tangled up in far too much red tape.

Kel said bridge access is another bugbear and could be managed a lot better. He’d like to see more jurisdictions adopt the approach of Transport for NSW which has recently allowed PBS vehicles access over the Sheahan Bridge at Gundagai.

“That alone has opened up the Hume Highway for high productivity vehicles and is a great example to use on other bridges on other highways.”

Kel, meanwhile, seems as busy as ever, wearing multiple hats.

When Big Rigs checks in, he’s in Dubbo for an ITC meeting, and as a committee member of the Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association of NSW, also knee deep in helping to organise this month’s National Rural Carriers Convention

n Canberra. On the businessport has also been gradually rowing over the last five years:ers, and we’ve stepped up to meet their needs.”

Now 73, Kel concedes, however, that he is slowly delegating a bit more of the workload to members of the team.

He feels fortunate to have his two sons Glen and Noel heading up the 35,000-acre crop farming side of the operation that started in 1970 with a relatively modest 1700 acres, and their respective wives, Fiona and Amy, heavily involved in the transport side of the large family business.

Fiona leads the compliance team, while Amy plays a key role in the management of the many subcontractors.

“I get a fair bit of advice from them on trucking, and I give them a fair bit of advice on farming as well – makes for some good discussions.”

[L-R] Grandson Charlie, son Noel, Kel, son Glen, granddaughter Mia and daughter-in-law Fiona Baxter.

A big turnout of well-wishers was on hand to celebrate the milestone handover.

Thor and Trai tackle the big towing jobs

No one wants to ever have to call on their services, but when they do, it’s reassuring to see this big Scania V8 arriving to save the day.

BY DAVID VILE

FOR Canberra based towtruck operator Trai Hildeb rand, putting ‘Thor’, his Scania heavy wrecker unit on display at the Cooma Motorfest late last year gave him both the chance to both show off his impressive rig and enjoy a rare day off.

Trai works for Aplus Towing and has been behind the wheel of the big Swede which has been kitted out with an Ekebol underlift recovery unit and a swag of associated gear since it was put into service in early 2023.

“It’s one of those things; no one really wants to see us, that’s why the truck shows are good as you can get out and see people when they are not broken down or have had an accident - you can have a chat to them and it’s not the worst day of their life,” Trai said.

With the Snowy 2.0 Hydro project in full swing, and a lot of extra vehicle movements in the region, Troi and the Sca nia have tackled a variety of towing and recovery jobs in the rugged terrain of the New South Wales Snowy Mountains.

and Thor ready to roll at short notice.

“A-Plus is the recovery provider for Future Generation (who are managing the Snowy 2.0 Project) which keeps us on our toes,” Trai said.

Along the Snowy Mountains Highway there has been a few incidents so we have a very high presence in this area - we can run down here every day and its convenient to Canberra - we are virtually local to it.”

Given the variable alpine weather and the winding mountain roads throughout the area, the call for help to retrieve a stuck vehicle can come at any time, with Trai

“One of the biggest jobs we did was 12 trucks which got stuck at a place called Powerline Hill in the snow, we ended up being out there for 16 hours.

The weather can vary so much too - a couple of years ago I was doing recoveries in the snow in November with lots of trucks sliding off the road or getting stuck for traction,” he explained.

Getting the big Scania on the road was a two-year process with the truck being built and then fitted out with the recovery unit.

The back end is packed with every sort of tool required in-

cluding around 150 metres of chain, ladders, power tools, a bus lift, snow chains and blocks.

“There is another heavy recovery unit at Goulburn but if it’s away the next truck is either Sydney or Wagga - we are on our own a fair bit, so we have set it up to do everything from a small job up to a B -double or B-triple,” said Trai.

Originally white in colour, the Scania has had approximately 44 metres of vinyl wrap applied by Capital Signs in Canberra to give it its distinct appearance in the A-Plus colours.

With the 16.3-litre V8 punching out 620 horses and 3000nM of torque, the Scania is not short of get-up and go and Trai reckons it is a good bit of kit to drive as he explained, “The V8 has so much torque and the hub reduction on the back helps a helluva lot.

“She will scoot up the hills but obviously in this region a good retarder is a big thing - it will hold back 100 tonne B-doubles going down hills.

“It has a great stopping capacity without having to jump on the brakes.”

The recovery unit has 108

tonne capacity and the most I have moved is 92 tonnes from Mt Selwyn, so it was around 118 tonne all up and it did really well - I haven’t had anything on it that it hasn’t been able to do yet.”

Needless to say, the back end of the truck is where all the work happens with the Ekebol recovery unit proving its worth out in the field.

“It’s all Australian made and built by Ekebol on the Sunshine Coast. They have been building this type of body for 20 years and have kept updating it as they go along and their after sales support has been great.

“The Scania is a really good platform for this type of unita company in Sydney has been taking measurements and so forth off this one as they are looking at making an exact copy of this type of unit.”

Since hitting the road, the Scania had clocked up around 90,000 kilometres and around 2500 operating hours.

Generally, Trai works within 450km of the Canberra base, but has made trips to Brisbane, Newcastle, Melbourne and the NSW South Coast, working with other operators as the need arises.

“We have friends in different companies such as Wagga Towing and GRS Towing, so we spread the work, just getting it done for the customer is the biggest thing.

“Our distances on jobs can vary - I have done over 3000 k’s this week, but you could go to a job 5 k’s from the depot and be there for 12 hours,” he said.

Originally working as a plumber, Trai made the switch to trucks and joined Aplus six years ago.

“I climbed the rope; I had

my MC licence and had been driving B-doubles here and there and started out with Aplus on a supertilt.

“The company bought a Freightliner with an underlift from Queanbeyan which been in the local area for 20 odd years and I took it on.

“They always planned to buy this as there was a couple of year wait for it and we hit the ground running with it - it was built how we wanted, a lot of things added and changed for the ease of use.”

The Cooma Motorfest was one of many Thor has had a presence at in recent times, with Trai taking in shows at Bathurst, Bredbo and Casino along with other events such as the Goulburn Convoy for Kids.

But with towing and accident recovery being an on-call 4/7 type of operation, Trai was ready to fire up the big V8 and head off on the next assignment.

“It’s just a matter of waiting for the phone to ring - the next recovery job could be locally, Sydney, Melbourne or anywhere.

We have a very important role to play in the industry.”

No recovery job is too tough for Thor. Image: A-Plus

The big Thor on show in Cooma. Show images: David Vile

Trai Hildebrand with his heavy-duty tow truck.

The Ekebol underlift does all the heavy lifting.

20 DRIVER PROFILE

Dream career was a long time coming

After over 20 years in office roles, this go-getting outback truckie now feels more at home on the Strzelecki Track or the Tanami than sitting behind a desk.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

SINCE making the switch into the trucking field four years ago, 42-year-old Nat Smith says she has only one regret – that she didn’t do it sooner.

Based in Adelaide, her work takes her to all corners of Australia. “I go everywhere, any capital city, any dirt road and any mine site,” she said. Nat works for Energy Logistix Transport, running double and triple road trains out of the company’s Largs North depot.

Her start in trucking came four years ago. As she explained, “I was a keyboard warrior for about 20 years until my kids grew up. Once they finished school, I decided I wanted to do what I want to do!

“I’ve always loved being on the road and have always been an outdoors person. Even when I was in those office roles, whenever I needed to take a step back mentally, I would go back to an old job I had of driving lunch vans.

“That’s when I decided to look at other avenues where I could get out on the road –and stay out on the road. It’s all grown from there and now trucking has become an addiction!”

Nat had worked in various office roles including consumer finance and customer service. As she explained, “Those jobs weren’t ever a career for me, whereas this is.

“My kids are 20 and 22 now and they both live out of home and are doing their bit in life. I would have loved to have started this 20 years ago, but then I probably wouldn’t have had the life I’ve had with my children.”

Nat’s first role in the industry was with Remote Transport Australia (RTA). Four years ago, she started there doing yard work, before she even had her truck licence. “It was through friends that I was blessed to have that opportunity at RTA. I was washing trucks, loading trailers, learning to back trailers into bays, snapping combinations together. Then once I got my truck licence three years ago, I began driving for them, doing local work,” she explained.

“I’d go out to Port Pirie or load freight around Adelaide, and it progressed from there. Eventually I was heading out to the mines. That job at RTA gave me the opportunity to understand where to place things on trailers, how to restrain things, how to take care of the equipment.

“I was so new to the industry. And I still am compared to other drivers.

“There’s a big gap I think – a lot of people don’t understand that being a truck driver is not just sitting behind a steering wheel. You need to know how to maintain your trailers too.”

From there, Nat went on to work at Bonetti Transport and Hire. “I loved this company but the work was very city-based. I wanted to get back into the dirt work. They understood that was my end game. Now I keep adding more and more trailers.”

Nat started with ELX in October 2023 and says she’s loving every minute. Often the work sees her on the road for numerous weeks at a time, pulling anything from double road trains to AB triples, and carrying general freight.

“The longest I’ve been away in the truck is five weeks. I love those long trips. I’m privileged enough that my kids

ALL GROWN FROM THERE AND NOW TRUCKING HAS BECOME AN ADDICTION!”

time on the Strzelecki Track. “It’s our gateway coming into Queensland.” She’s also tackled the Great Central Road and the Tanami up to the Tanami Gold Mine. “But there’s still much more of the Tanami up north I haven’t done yet. I also haven’t done the Birdsville Developmental Road but would love to do it.”

Nat got her MC licence in January 2024, while working with ELX. “I had wanted to upgrade to my MC, but I wanted to make sure I was competent with my HC before I started adding trailers. I had a really good support team at ELX and they gave me that opportunity to upgrade my licence. I’m slowly adding more trailers as I go.

“ELX has been fantastic with the career progression I wanted. They’ve put a massive amount of trust in me by handing over the keys to this equipment. I’m forever grateful and blessed to have been given that opportunity.”

have grown up so I can make that commitment and spend that time out on the road,” said Nat.

“You always try and be home for the events you need to be at and work is really good like that. If I need to take annual leave, they make it happen. It’s a two-way street. They know the commitment we put in and the effort. We give our all to the job and they give their all to us.”

In terms of the freight she transports, Nat explained, “I could carry anything from drill rods, to chemicals, iso tanks of nitrogen, motor components that go into a beam pump, to the massive beam pumps themselves. Whatever our client requests is what we’ll carry. Sometimes loading the trailers is like playing Tetris.”

Starting in Adelaide, Nat

travels wherever is needed to service ELX’s clients, which are based Australia-wide.

“From that point, I could be on the road for however long it needs to be. This job I just did went from Adelaide to Perth, then to a mine site past Newman, back to Perth and now back to Adelaide,” explained Nat.

“The majority of our clients are in the oil and gas field. There’s no client too big or small. If anything needs to be done, I’ll do it.”

Nat was recently handed the keys to a 2020 Kenworth C509 named ‘Odin’. “I love it, it’s so nice to drive and very comfortable. To have to live in the truck as we do, we are incredibly blessed with the space. I’ve got two fridges, a microwave, TV, sound bar – it’s got all the creature comforts you would want in

Asked what she loves most about the work, Nat responded, “It’s the remoteness and the scope of work I do. I do enjoy my solitude and my quiet time, being away from noise and city life. There’s also the people you get to meet, and seeing some of the machinery that gets moved around.

“Some of the landscapes younificent too. In the Kimberleyarts Well on the way to Alice Springs, there’s this stretch oftains with flat tops on them, there’s the cloud formations coming into Darwin where it can look like Armageddon, the epic sunrises in Moomba,ple road train on. The photos

T909 named ‘Maximus’.

Posing for this photo with her previous truck, a T909 named ‘Maximus’, was a proud moment for Nat Smith. “I made it,” she said.

Image: Dave Sanderson

Nat is now behind the wheel of a 2020 Kenworth C509 named ‘Odin’. Images: Nat Smith

Her work sees her travel anywhere and everywhere, usually pulling double road trains through to AB triples.

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Veteran operator ready for his next chapter

After over 50 years in the game, this veteran transport operator has called time on his trucking career – selling the successful Sunshine Coast business he started 25 years ago.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

PETER Carter was just 17 years old when he got his truck licence and began driv ing at his father’s sawmill, hauling timber and logs, from behind the wheel of an In ternational, powered by a V8 petrol engine.

A lot has changed since then, with Peter continuing to roll with the times, through the highs and the lows. He spoke with Big Rigs about making the difficult decision to walk away from the industry he’s been part of for his entire working life.

“I’ll be 70 this year, that’s why I reckon it’s time to give it up,” he told Big Rigs. “The industry is in a fair bit of hurt right now and there’s a lot that transport operators are having to go through.”

One particular issue he not ed was the difficulty operators are having with finding good truck drivers. “People just can’t get drivers. That’s been an issue for a couple of years now. I had a number of driv ers who were with me for 20 years or more. We had good drivers who stayed with us. Now there are a lot of young people who just don’t want to work. It’s hard to get people in. So many want to get their truck licence and go straight into a B-double. They don’t realise you need to work your way up to that.”

Based on the Sunshine Coast, Peter spoke of how he came to establish Peter Carter Transport in 2000, a successful transport operation with a fleet of 38 prime movers, 74 trailers and 16 rigids – operating from three depots (Coolum Beach on the Sunshine Coast, Rocklea and Townsville).

During the 1970s, he worked by his father’s side for six or seven years, until he closed the sawmill. “Then I went carting for Bells Transport for four years. I got out of that and went back into sawmills for another 16-17 years,” he explained.

Peter had been running his own sawmill; harvesting, and carting timber and logs with his small fleet of trucks.

“That was until 2000. The Greens had been pushing to stop logging in various forestry areas around the state, so the Queensland government shut down my sawmill due to the Regional Forest Agreements.”

At that moment, Peter had to choose which of two career paths he wanted to take. “I had to decide if I wanted to keep sawmilling or move into trucks.”

Peter chose the latter, keeping two of his trucks to form Peter Carter Transport.

“When we started up, we were doing recycled cardboard into Brisbane; and recycled glass, bricks and alcohol out of Bris-

bane,” he explained.

A family business through and through, Peter credits his wife Kate for helping to get the business to where it was.

“Behind every good man is a good woman, and my wife has been there since we started this business. We wouldn’t have gotten to where we are today without her, and my son Trent and his wife Kaicee,” said Peter. “When we started this business, Trent came back from Broome in WA, where he was driving trucks. He came into this business and we continued to build it from there.”

In the early days of Peter Carter Transport, growth was slow and steady, with the fleet

growing to four or five trucks by 2004. That was when an opportunity came up to acquire Morgans Suncoast Freighters, bringing another nine trucks into the mix. Along with tripling the size of the fleet, this move also saw the business expanding into general freight.

Asked about his biggest career highlight, Peter nominated the move to the purpose built Coolum Beach facility eight years ago. “It was a huge decision to make that move and make such a big investment in the space. We were previously based at a 3000 square metre facility at Kunda Park and went into a 10,400 square metre space at Coolum

SOMETIMES WHEN THINGS LIKE THAT HAPPEN, YOU WONDER HOW TO GET PAST IT, BUT YOU’VE GOT TO KEEP ON GOING.”

PETER

CARTER

Beach. From there we ran the transport operation and a separate cardboard baling business. The day we moved was a really big highlight for me.”

However it certainly hasn’t always been smooth sailing.

“We have had our run of ups and downs. Our Rocklea site was flooded in 2011, then we had a fire at the cardboard baling facilities at Coolum Beach in 2018 and another flood at Rocklea in 2022,” said Peter, admitting those moments were tough to get through. “Sometimes when things like that happen, you wonder how to get past it, but you’ve got to keep on going.”

And that’s exactly what he did, continuing to grow the business into the respected player it is today.

With Peter and Kate both ready for the next chapter of their lives, their business was sold to Blacks Transport Group, with the acquisition announced in early March.

“It was a difficult decision and took a lot of consideration but we knew it was time. Our staff were our biggest concern

when we sold. We wanted to make sure that our staff were looked after, as well as our customers – and Blacks Transport were happy to do that, taking on all our staff,” explained Peter.

Like Peter’s business, Blacks Transport Group is also family owned and operated. It was started in 1995 with a single truck and has been built up to a fleet of over 150 trucks and trailers, predominantly servicing south-east Queensland, the Burnett/Wide Bay Region and North Queensland.

As part of the transition, Peter Carter Transport has now been rebranded as Carters Transport Qld, operating as a division of Blacks Transport Group.

Peter revealed his decision to sell to Blacks also came down to timing. “We didn’t actually have the business on the market but were looking to retire and Blacks Transport Group was looking to expand.”

He added that it was great to know his staff and customers would be looked after by another family owned and operated business.

Blacks Transport Group has depots in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Maryborough, Bundaberg and Rockhampton. The acquisition of Peter Carter Transport will add a company-owned depot to Townsville; along with an additional depot on the Sunshine Coast.

Managing Director at Blacks Transport Group, Bruce Black, told Big Rigs, “The acquisition will give us depots right along the east coast of Queensland, with our agent depots located across the rest of the state.” Asked about the attraction to Peter Carter Transport, Bruce commented, “We were looking to expand our business further. The Carters business has a lot of the correct freight profiles, that complement the freight profiles we already had, so we believed it would be a good blend.

“It will allow us to further improve our services and provide additional services daily.”

With the acquisition, Blacks Transport Group now has a fleet of around 125 trucks. While all transport operations will now fall under Blacks Transport Group, Peter has retained his cardboard baling business that operates from the same site at the main Coolum Beach depot. “I have someone managing that for me. A man has to retire but he can’t have nothing to do,” laughed Peter. Looking ahead, now that he has more time on his hands, Peter is looking forward to doing some travelling. “Kate and I are going to get in our motorhome and travel around Australia. We’d also like to take a few overseas trips too,” he said. “I’ve got to keep the wife happy!”

At 69 years of age, Peter Carter says it was the right time to walk away. Images: Kate Carter

Peter says he’s looking forward to taking a step back during retirement.

His business operated from three Queensland depots.

Kate and Peter Carter. “Behind every good man is a good woman,” Peter said.

Peter Carter with his grandchildren Annaleisa, Aden and Leaha, and his son Trent Carter.

Peter grew his fleet to 38 prime movers.

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HONOURING OUR TRUCKING LEGENDS

Inductee dedicates honour to colleagues

This reluctant recent addition to the Wall of Fame says he stands on the shoulders of all those who worked for, and with him.

BY AINSLEIGH BILATO

WHEN Kevin Englefield received news of his nomi nation for the National Road Transport Museum’s Shell Rimula Wall of Fame, his initial reaction was reluc tance.

“When I got the letter to say I’d been accepted into the Wall of Fame, I actual ly took three days to decide I was going to accept that,” Kevin says. He did not see himself as a figure worthy of such rec ognition. To Kevin, he was simply a man who had done his job.

Having grown up in the transport industry, Kevin had himself admired so many of the names on the Wall of Fame, respecting their accomplishments and aspiring to reach even a fraction of their success.

To find himself placed among them was a challenge for Kevin to fully come to terms with. It was only after some persuasion from those around Kevin - family, friends and colleagues who knew the extent of his contributions - that he accepted the honour.

Kevin felt that he owed it to all the people who had helped him throughout his career, recognising that his success was not his alone but a product of the sacrifices of those who worked for and with him.

“When I stepped up to receive that award, I wasn’t receiving it for me,” says Kevin. “I received it for us.”

Long before leaving school, Kevin had a clear vision for his future. He knew he wanted to be a truck driver and own a successful transport business.

This decision, shaped by his parents, John and Joy Englefield, who started their transport business in 1972, marked the beginning of a long and dedicated career in

the transport industry. In the mid-1970s, Kevin and his brother Michael joined the family business, responsible for loading the trucks for their parents.

By 1979, an 18-year-old Kevin took over the long-distance driving for the business, carting wine grapes, citrus and various other farming goods and equipment.

In 1999, Kevin transitioned from interstate driving to a management position within the business, working closely with his father to oversee its day-to-day operations. At the time, the business was running up to 25 subcontractor owner drivers.

Although a steep learning curve, the challenges Kevin faced only deepened his passion for the industry, sharpening his skills and preparing him to take on even greater responsibilities in the years to come.

Sadly, in 2003, John passed away, and Kevin took on the role of managing the family business. Under his leadership, the company took on a new name, K. Englefield Wine Grape Services Pty Ltd and grew to employ up to 50 subcontractor owner-drivers, in additional to the existing

12 company trucks. In Kevin’s early years of management, he remembers his greatest challenge was keeping costs down and making a profit.

While that is still relevant today, Kevin considers the hardest part of running a business is managing people and their behaviour. Even with better communication, equipment and training, “brand protection has gone out the door.”

That is why Kevin says maintaining strict safety compliance is more important than ever. “It is critical because you’ve got to be able to validate that you’ve taken every step when someone does something stupid.”

For Kevin, family and business have always been closely connected. His dedication to both has shaped his approach, instilling strong values and work ethic in his three sons.

As a single father, Kevin raised his sons on the road.

Having them learn the trade firsthand by watching their father, Kevin instilled in them the values that guided his own career: “We say what we mean, we mean what we say, and we do what we say we’re going to do.”

“I guess the hardest thing through that was to set an example when you were so profoundly tired and frustrated and angry at where you were in life,” shares Kevin as he reflects on the challenge of balancing single fatherhood with running a business.

“But I can sit here and say, you know what, they’re all fine men and great dads and that’s about the best you can hope for as a parent.”

Today, Kevin’s sons have stepped up as the next generation of leaders in K. Englefield Wine Grape Services Pty Ltd, carrying forward their father’s legacy with the same dedication that has defined the business during its 53 years of service.

One piece of advice Kevin shares with his sons is that the transport industry evolves constantly and that staying informed and, in turn, adaptable is key.

“You can’t just say, ‘Oh, the old man did this for 20 years,’” he explains. “Every year, things change.” These constant changes require ongoing attention and due diligence to support compliance and business relationships. “Don’t be complacent,” warns Kevin.

Kevin says that what he’s most proud of in his career is having given people the opportunity to step up and build their own futures.

“I’ve seen subcontractors come in with just one truck and go on to own 5 or 6 of their own, with their own work and their own business” remembers Kevin.

“I never really got bitter. If you’ve got the ability, discipline, and integrity to go out on your own and give it a shot, there’s nothing better.”

As Kevin approaches retirement, his contribution to the industry remains in the success of those he’s helped along the way.

However, he’s quick to point out “I’m not retired yet, I’m just tired!”.

One of Kevin’s sons recently asked him to step in and deliver a load when they were short on drivers. “Forty-nine loads later, I finally escaped!” Kevin laughs.

“I can still have a crack, but I’m at a point in my life where I have a choice. I don’t have to, but I can if I want to.”

Recently, a friend posed the question to Kevin: If he had his life to live over, would he choose to be a transport operator and business owner again?

It wasn’t his answer that surprised Kevin, but how quickly he responded – “Yes. Damn straight. To reach the end, or the twilight, of your career and be able to answer that question, you’re a very fortunate man.”

One of the hardest aspects of the transport industry for Kevin was the number of fatalities he encountered as a first or second responder.

“Back in the day, we had no debriefing,” he recalls. “You were left to drive off down the road, watching the white line, going ‘what the hell did I just see?’”

“It’s why we get so angry when we see erratic, stupid driving take place.”

These experiences may, in part, be why Kevin is a fundraiser for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, dedicating his time to raising funds for the crucial service.

In 2008, Kevin was invited by his cousin to join him on the Outback Car Trek, the main fundraiser for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Inspired by the group of dedicated trekkers on the trip from Grafton to Darwin, Kevin built a car specifically for these treks.

The car’s number plates read “OURMOG,” which stands for “Our Matter Other Than Grapes.” Over the years, Kevin has participated in 15 treks.

Kevin hopes that people still have the desire to enter the industry and the belief that they can create a fulfilling lifestyle within it.

“Without the industry, Australia stops,” he says. “We need people who believe in it and where it’s going.”

Though he never sought recognition, Kevin’s impact on the transport industry and the lives of those around him is undeniable.

He upheld not just a business but a reputation of professionalism, resilience and generosity.

The eye-catching K. Englefield Wine Grape Services (KEWGS) Mercedes-Benz fleet.

Kevin Englefield, centre, with Viva Energy’s Nick Lubransky, left, and Franco Bilato at the ceremony in Alice Springs.

Single dad Kevin raised his three sons on the road. Images: Kevin Englefield Kevin built this car specifically for the fundraising treks.

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Fans flock to see trucks shine in Colac

Truck showgoers have been spoilt for great choices of late in regional Victoria, and the recent Colac show was no exception to the rule.

BY GRAHAM HARSANT

WITH a plethora of truck shows in Victoria of late, you may think that attendances both by truckies and the public would drop off, but the opposite is the case.

All the shows have attracted record numbers of trucks and those coming to see them.

The Colac Truck and Ute Show on March 22 was no exception with the town’s showgrounds chock-a-block with everything from Morris Transport’s brand-new C509, to the best of major sponsor, Land Transport’s fleet, to plenty of oldies that looked as good as new.

Peter Wiffen arrived with dad, Robbie and close relative, Daryl Pigden to display Pete’s 1980 Ford 9000 Louisville.

The day cab truck is an ex-genuine Ford Motor Company vehicle that ran from Geelong to Broadmeadows towing a tipper. From there it was sold and became a truck and trailer.

Peter, with Robbie acting as gofer and Daryl as the interior specialist, bought the truck and stripped it back nut and bolt. Their work paid off with the truck winning Best Vintage at Colac.

There is much to love about this truck from every angle but a standout is the twin pipes held in place by a red painted and scrolled metal exhaust bracket, framing the rear of the truck.

It looks spectacular and makes the rear of the truck really pop.

Award-winning Transtar earns its keep Shirl McCosker has spent the last few years buying, doing up and selling a number of trucks.

“I’ve had a K-100G, a couple of old SARs, W model and a cab over Peterbilt. It started during Covid, and I’ve had seven all up since then.”

His latest acquisition is an international Transtar 4700 from 1996 with 525N Cummins Power and this truck he intends to keep for the foreseeable future.

“I did my first interstate trip to Adelaide in a 4700 for Pattons Transport back in the day and I’d always said that before I go toes up I needed to own one.

“I found this in Lake Bolac, not far from home.

Originally owned by Towns Haulage at Bairnsdale, it was being used on a farm carting grain into the silos. I bought it virtually for the price of the motor which was new.”

Unlike his other trucks, Shirl works the Transtar at least three days a week.

“I’ve done Brisbane and Sydney a few times and next week I’m across to Perth. This would be the oldest Transtar running the paddock. In fact it might be the only Trans-

tar running the paddock, I definitely haven’t passed any others nothing passes me though, mind you. It’s good to keep the old school going.”

Shirl’s ‘old school’ Transtar picked up the award for Best Truck 20-30 years.

Western Star shines for major sponsor Land Transport as men tioned, was the major spon sor of the show so it was incumbent upon Nathan Krause to bring one of their trucks, a 2021 4800 Western Star named ‘Never Late in a ‘48’ along to the show.

Nathan does an overnight express shuttle run from Melbourne, out of the company’s Derrimut depot to Adelaide.

For those not in the know, the suburb of Derrimut is truck city, truck heaven or as Nathan thinks, the truckie’s nightmare suburb.

“I leave about 6pm so I get all the traffic. It really is a nightmare getting out of town.”

Some 10 hours later he drops the trailer and picks up around 4.30pm the following afternoon to return to Melbourne, getting back to Derrimut without the traffic.

“You know which direction I prefer to travel,” he quipped.

When asked how many in the Land Transport fleet, Nathan said, “They’ve got a handful, but I think it’s a pretty big hand.”

Nathan was joined at Colac by his brother, James K rause. Although involved in transport, James is not behind the wheel but is with Greenfreight Transport as an Operations Manager of the logging division.

“I look after Wodonga, Tumut, Rosewood, Myrtleford, and a bit of Colac as well,” he said.

“Across the fleet we would probably have around 50 logging trucks.

On top of that we have five log loaders and then on the interstate transport side, five single taughtliners and also flat-tops and another probably 40 or 50 in the linehaul fleet that run up the eastern seaboard.”

Continued on page 28

Land Tranport and some of their subbies’ rigs paint a colourful picture.

VIC Lowloaders put on quite the display.

Shirl McCosker’s hard working Transtar won Best Truck 20-30 years. Images: Graham Harsant

Nathan Krause loves his 2021 Western Star 4800 and driving for major show sponsor, Land Transport.

James Krause with one of the standout rigs from Greenfreight where he is an operations manager.

The exhaust ‘bracket’ for Pete Wiffen’s Louisville is something different, making the rear of the truck really pop.

Daryl Pigden, left, with Robbie and Peter Wiffen and Pete’s Louisville which took out the Best Vintage award.

Proud Louisville owner pays tribute to mate

From page 26

ROBBIE Rose is happy to stand around and yack with anyone and everyone, that is until someone puts a microphone under his nose or a video camera in front of his face.

Then he suddenly becomes very shy.

This was a problem for Robbie at Colac, because his truck won Rig of the Show for 2025.

“My hands are trembling,” he said.

We did, however, manage to get a few words out of him.

Robbie, who has worked for McColl’s transport for 36 years, has owned his Ford Louisville for six years. Originally painted black, Robbie got together with the late and great Rick ‘Chocks’ Hayman to come up with a new colour scheme.

“I definitely wasn’t going black again! My Cadillac (a nine-seat limousine) is black and I can’t have two black vehicles,” he said.

“This is what I call a Dulux

mixing dark blue paint and added in silver until we got to a point where we knew it was going to be right. Then we added the black and white striping.

“We designed so many paint jobs but then we got to this, decided it looked old school and stuck with it. This was the second last truck that Chocks painted before he passed away.”

This was the first award Robbie has won with the Louisville – hence those trembling hands.

He was also very proud that it is a rolling dedication to the memory of Rick Hayman. Congratulations Robbie on a deserved win.

In only its second year, Colac can look forward to a bright future amongst the myriad of truck shows staged in Victoria. It might be advisable to start a rigorous exercise regime right now to be fit enough to spend the day walking around Colac and all the other shows that Victoria offers – and it’s

Truck category winners

Truck of Show

Robbie Rose - 1988 Ford LTL 9000

Best Truck 0-5 years

Noel McLeod - 2024 Kenworth T909

Best Truck 5-10 years

Steve Settineri - 2018 Kenworth T900 Legend

Best Truck 10-20 years

Luke Watts - 2007 Kenworth T904

Best Truck 20-30 years

Shirl McCosker - 1996 International Transstar 4700

Best Vintage Truck 30+ years

Troy Moreland - 1980 Ford LNT 9000

Best Local Truck (Colac Otway Shire)

Noel McLeod - 2024 Kenworth T909

Best Highway Truck

Layne Moulds - 2022 Kenworth T909

Best Log Truck

Sam Dicker - 2024 Kenworth T909

Best Livestock Truck

Jason Keen - 2023 Kenworth T909

Best Restoration Truck

Ryan Higgins - 1985 Mack R Model

Best European Truck

Peter Shiells - 1974 International Atkinson Halfcab

Best American Truck

Darren Russell - 2024 Kenworth T610 SAR

Best Rigid Truck

Larry Whitten - 1987 Kenworth T600

Best Tipper Truck

Lewis Johnstone - 2024 Kenworth T909

Best Tow Truck (Tilt Tray or Heavy Tow)

Modern Towing - 2023 Kenworth T610

People’s Choice Truck

Will Snell - 2024 Kenworth T659

Best Fleet (3 or more trucks)

Morris Transport

Morris Transport’s brand spanking new KW C509 with finishing touches by Rollin’ Stainless of Shepparton.

Oldies, such as this 1958 Bedford made a welcome appearance.

CN Trucking’s T900 Classic.

PJ Shiells Atkinson won Best European. Leon Keane brought the truck along with Peter’s grandaughter, Nathalia.

‘Shane’s Ride’, this T909 won Best Highway Truck for Layanda Transport.

A rare Mack from Richardson’s amongst a sea of Kenworths.

Morris Transport showed up in force with their distinctive grey and purple-highlighted trucks.

Proudly supporting Reader Rigs

Share your truck pics to win with Shell Rimula

SHELL Rimula has partnered with Big Rigs in a big way – so there are even more reasons to send in your best truck shots.

Each month, the Big Rigs team will choose a #PicOfTheMonth, with the lucky winner receiving a $500 Shell Coles Express Gift Card.

Keep an eye out for our regular posts on the Big Rigs Facebook page, calling for your best truck photos and add yours in

the comments, or email them direct to danielle.gullaci@ primecreative.com.au for your chance to win the main prize.

Don’t forget to include a brief note about the truck and where the photo was taken. We’ll feature some of the best photos in each print edition of Big Rigs, with one winner an nounced each month.

Keep those amazing truck pics coming!

Congratulations to Pic of the Month winner Nick Kemp, who took this great shot of the K104B at the Colbinabbin silos in Victoria. A $500 Shell Coles Express voucher is on its way!

Aaron Maher snapped this shot of the Wickham Freight Lines K220 heading north with hanging meat.

Chris Pearson shot this pic while taking a quick break at Winton before heading to Mt Isa.

An epic Saturday morning sunrise near Murrayville, Victoria,

Matt Langley captured this great shot at dawn on the Buntine Highway, NT.

Darcy Richardson shared a great pic of this SRV Road Freight T909, named ‘Silent Treatment’, heading north out of Melbourne.

Brooke Day snapped this ripper sunrise pic of her Mack Trident truck and dog while on a job site in Pakenham, Victoria.

Keeping you and your business unstoppable

Joel Leech captured this great sunset shot of his Western Star. “This photo has not been edited either!” he said.

Jason Cocks Transport snapped this morning pic, loaded up with vetch hay.

Amy McIntosh sent in this ripper shot of the Western Star, taken during the Cyclone Alfred clean up, at the Border Ranges in northern NSW.

Gary Morton heads northbound, through Turkey Creek, WA.

Joshua Brooks shared this pic of his K200, loaded and tarped for the run down to Alberton, Queensland.

Aaron Fuller Transport shared this photo of his Kenworth T600 and his new Freighter tautliner.

Trace N Mick shared a great shot of this Coulton Farming rig loading near Yelarbon, Queensland at sunset.

Rural show makes a triumphant return

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

PRESENTED by the Beaufort Football and Netball Club, the annual Beaufort Truck and Car Show was held at the Goldfields Recreational Reserve in Beaufort, Victoria on Saturday, March 29.

Beaufort is a small rural town, located about 45 kilometres west of Ballarat. Since 2020, it’s been home to the annual Beaufort Truck and Car Show. Unfortunately however the event couldn’t be held last year, so this time around, many regular visitors were excited to see it was back.

Former president of the Beaufort Football and Netball Club, Geoff Carnes, is one of the show’s organisers, involved with the event from its inception. He says that with trucks being a pivotal part of the Beaufort com munity, the show serves up a

great mix of trucks and cars.

“We get a lot of car enthusiasts checking out the trucks, and the truck drivers enjoy the chance to take a look at all the cars,” said Geoff.

The 2025 Beaufort Truck and Car Show saw around 70 trucks on show, with over 1000 visitors coming through the gates to enjoy a jampacked day of activities and displays.

“There were newer trucks as well as plenty of vintage trucks too, with some of the old Whites and Kenworth W-models dating back to the 1970s,” Geoff told Big Rigs.

“The truck owners and fleets put a lot of effort into getting their trucks ready and polished up for the day.”

Every year, the Beaufort show chooses a feature truck fleet. For 2025, this was Frasers Bulk Transport, from tiny

“They’ve been a great supporter of the show since the very beginning. Frasers was chosen as the feature fleet in honour of Danny Quinton, who sadly passed away a few years ago,” revealed Geoff.

“He was a truck driver at Frasers and was at every one of our shows up until he couldn’t be there anymore. He always got the trucks all polished up and ready for the show.”

As part of the days’ festivities, there were truck and car awards presented – with 12 truck categories. Taking out Truck of the Show was Malcolm Blanch’s showstopping Kenworth T909.

“The trucks and cars were all in and ready for opening time at 10am and judging began shortly after,” said Geoff.

He added that the day was filled plenty of entertainment, including freestyle Moto-

Truck award winners

Truck of the Show:

Malcom Blanch, Kenworth T909

Survivor Truck:

Dale Tiley, R600 Flinstone Mack

Best Bling:

Jack Conway, Morris Transport, Kenworth T659

Best Restored:

Peter Wiffen, Ford LTL 9000

Best Truck Under 10 Years:

Anthony Neil, Kenworth T909

Best American:

Sam Excell, Peterbilt 389

Best Fleet:

Freeman’s Transport

Best European/Japanese:

Steve Hughes, Hino tilt tray

Best Vintage:

Tom Hamilton, Kenworth W Model

Best Rigid/Tipper:

Rocket Addams, Kenworth T409

Tony Liston Award:

V K Niblett, Kenworth SAR

cross has been included in the day’s line-up and it was a definite highlight of the day. “The Motocross was really well received by everyone. We try to make it a real family day out and provide something for everyone. A lot of visitors love coming along with the whole family,” Geoff said.

“We had entertainment provided by a singer during the day and then another at night; and there was a large kids’ corner with pony rides and scavenger hunts.”

Geoff also thanked the sponsors, who were pivotal in getting the show up and running.

“We try to provide the best show we can and we can’t do that without our sponsors. They’re a major part of it and I can’t thank them enough, along with all the people who bring their vehicles along to

Freeman’s Transport took home the trophy for Best Fleet with its

Frasers Bulk Transport from Tatyoon, Victoria, was this year’s feature truck fleet for the event. Images: Backroads Photography

A walk down memory lane with these vintage show-stoppers.

Another impressive Freeman’s Transport rig, this time a Kenworth T600.

Freestyle Motocross was added to the program for the first time – and it was a hit.

The 2025 Beaufort Truck and Car Show saw around 70 trucks on display and over 1000 visitors.

Family business evolves with the times

STARTED in 1969 as a small antique business launched by Keith and Beverly McPhail, McPhails Furniture has evolved into a thriving furniture and homeware retailer, serving customers across the country.

Based in Wangaratta, Victoria, today it is in its second-generation, run by brothers Taylor and Casey McPhail. They rely on their small fleet of Isuzus to service their delivery needs.

W hile online shopping is second nature in bustling Australian cities, in regional and rural areas, the convenience of choice can feel like a distant luxury, with people living outside of urban centres often facing limited delivery options.

But McPhails is working to change that narrative.

As online shopping surged in popularity, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, McPhails adapted by launching their online store

in 2015 under the guidance of Taylor, who is now one of the company’s current directors.

The online platform opened up new possibilities for regional customers, who now had easier access to McPhails’ signature blend of classic country furniture and homewares made from recycled timbers and reclaimed metals.

The company’s delivery service is vital in ensuring customer satisfaction, especially when McPhails’ drivers travel vast distances from their Wangaratta warehouse – some as far as Adelaide in South Australia and the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.

With a flat-rate delivery fee of $59 and a promise of delivery within two weeks, McPhails has built a reputation for reliable service, no matter the location, which keeps customers returning time and again.

This delivery model, which

is supported by three new F Series Isuzu trucks purchased within the past year, is working well for the business –though Taylor explains that there has been the usual trial and error.

“Our mixed fleet has been growing rapidly with the addition of three brand new Isuzu FRR 110-260 Autos collected from Gilbert and Roach in Sydney last year,” said Taylor.

“Each truck is doing between 3500 to 5000 kilometres each week.

“We had been running a different truck brand in the past but found that their stock levels were unreliable, so we made the choice to swap to Isuzu.

“We don’t contract out to other delivery companies, Every McPhails driver is employed by us to ensure customer satisfaction and that f urniture arrives in the twoweek time frame.”

The FRR 110-260 is one

of Isuzu’s mid-sized models, built to efficiently eat up the kilometres and handle the long-haul trips a McPhails driver regularly embarks on.

The 5.56-meter extra-long wheelbase model ensures ample space for even the largest pieces of furniture, from plush lounge suites to hefty dining tables, and helps streamline deliveries.

Powered by a robust 6-cylinder 6HK1-TCC engine, these trucks offer 191 kW (260 PS) of power and 761 Nm of torque at 1450 rpm – 2400 rpm, and, matched with an 11,000kg GVM, they provide an ideal combination of power and payload for moving loads of furniture.

Standout features for McPhails are Isuzu’s comfortable, driver-focused cab design and an Allison LTC2500 fully automatic transmission that reduces fatigue behind the wheel.

“The interior cab design is

one of the things our drivers comment on; it’s sleek, efficient and easy to navigate. The visibility from the cab is great as well,” Taylor added.

“Some of our routes can stretch over 900km, so we also opted for the Allison automatic transmission to help with the long drives, which makes a huge difference in reducing driver fatigue.”

McPhails is also keenly aware of the importance of ergonomics. Their FRR trucks have Isri 6860/875 NTS air suspension seats to further combat fatigue.

McPhails is passionate about maintaining a fleet that reflects the values of its business. Each truck is carefully maintained and proudly displays McPhails’ signature branding, thanks to custom wraps designed locally by Grimshaw Signs.

Each driver is assigned to their own truck, which encourages a sense of ownership for its presentation.

Six new Scanias for Mondiale VGL’s Sydney fleet

MONDIALE VGL has taken delivery of six new Scania 460 P SUPER prime movers, to pull quad-axle side-loader container trailers around Sydney’s outer-metro areas, and as far afield as Bathurst.

Fleet and Compliance Manager ANZ at Mondiale VGL, Rory Gerhardt, says the Scania 460 Ps have been perfectly specified to move heavy stone and tile filled containers, using quad-axle trailers.

“The Scania prime movers bring operational efficiency as well as added safety, and of course excellent fuel economy.”

The new Scanias were brought in to replace older vehicles – and Rory says there are plans to continue to add more 460 P specification prime movers to the fleet as part of Mondiale VGL’s fleet renewal programme. “Because we know they can do the job reliably. And the torque is great too,” he added.

“Our business growth is accelerating, setting new records in terms of efficient container movements, and that is assisted by these Scanias.

“Aside from the fuel efficiency benefits, the high level of vehicle data monitoring from the telematics service that Scania provides is the best in the business, and it gives us real time access to how the fleet is performing, which meets our requirements for Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting on sustainability,” Rory continued.

“I look after our fleets in Australia and New Zealand, so the more transparency and the more live data I can pull out of a telematics system, the more reporting I can do, and the

better the decision making.”

According to Rory, the performance data from these new trucks will help validate decisions to roll out this specification nationally for Mondiale VGL’s quad-axle trailer work.

“Scanias are fit for purpose. Scania offers a good product, good after sales, good support. Anyone can sell the truck, it’s what they do for you in years one to seven for us that matters. If they can’t support the assets, then you don’t even want to contemplate working

network are great,” Rory said.

“Because Scania owns its workshops around the country, it makes it easy for us. If I want to move these trucks to Perth from Sydney tomorrow, I’m going to get the same service in Perth as I am in Melbourne or Sydney, and the Perth workshop has instant access to all the trucks’ maintenance history, which can save a lot of time, and therefore money.”

Mark Ten Broeke, Scania New Truck Account Manager, explained, “Efficiency and roductivity gains wrapped

up in predictable uptime are the benefits Scania works hard to explain to our customers.

“We have been successful in providing Mondiale VGL with the perfect specification for their needs following careful analysis of the work these trucks will do in combination with the quad-axle trailers.

We have matched the power and torque of the frugal SUPER engines to the workload the trucks undertake, able to cope with up to 60-tonnes in some configurations.

“Using our onboard data gathering, Rory can see ex-

L ooking ahead, McPhails plans to expand its fleet, continue to improve warehouse operations, and double down on the focus of providing quality service to regional Australia.

Their relatively new 11,000-square-metre facility in Wangaratta has a large role to play in streamlining operations, reducing unnecessary stock transfers and allowing more time for deliveries.

“Our quality control from factory to warehouse has to be phenomenal as our customers rely on us to deliver a high-quality product that will be in the same excellent condition during transit as it was when it left the warehouse,” said Taylor.

“We have been really happy with our Isuzu trucks since picking them up; there’s been no dramas.

“We are looking forward to expanding the fleet with further Isuzus in the near future.”

actly how the trucks are performing, and can measure their efficiency and productivity, helping to reduce his total operating costs, as well as being able to demonstrate fuel efficiency and emissions reduction.

“We look forward to continuing to provide customers such as Mondiale VGL with services far beyond the simple provision of a vehicle and be true partners with them in improving their commercial success in a competitive business environment,” Mark concluded.

The business took delivery of these three Isuzu FRR 110-260 Autos last year.

McPhails Furniture Co-directors, Casey and Taylor McPhail. Images: Isuzu

[L-R] Mondiale VGL drivers Stuart Crook and Mick Matic. Images: Scania

Veteran truckie launches parts business

GROWING up around trucks, 59-year-old Jamie Atkins says he was always destined to follow that career path.

“My dad and uncles were all truck drivers, so it was a rite of passage. I left school at 16 and did my mechanical apprenticeship, then got my licence at 21 and that same day I was in the truck on my way to Sydney,” he explained.

Based in Shepparton, Victoria, Jamie’s driving career has been wide and diverse, from working with his truckie father and grandfather carting bricks – and unloading them by hand – to working for some of the major transport companies and then owning his own t 1980s, I did all the old-school stuff, where you’d stop and have a cuppa together and pull up if you ever saw someone

broken down.”

Jamie currently runs two Western Stars, carting precast concrete slabs and beams around Victoria.

With close to 40 years behind the wheel, Jamie understands first-hand what truckies are looking for when it comes to sourcing quality parts – at an affordable price.

A trip to a truck show in California with his son-in-law Hayden, who is also a truck driver, planted the seed for a new business venture. And with that, VIOWAM Industries was born.

“When I go to truck shows overseas and come across a product I’m interested in, I ask a lot of questions until I find

unique – parts that we either don’t have in Australia or don’t have at an affordable price.

“All my life I’ve been stung with high prices for truck parts. I had all these old blokes who used to help me out when I was younger, now I’m trying to help people out by sourcing quality parts and selling them at a good price.”

BACK WHEN I STARTED IN THE 1980S, I DID ALL THE OLD-SCHOOL STUFF, WHERE YOU’D STOP AND HAVE A CUPPA TOGETHER AND PULL UP IF YOU EVER SAW SOMEONE BROKEN DOWN.”

JAMIE ATKINS

Among VIOWAM’s main products are SIYAM radiators imported from Jordan, Maxxview Mirrors from the USA to help eliminate a truck’s front and side blind spots and the innovative EzCrank, also from the USA, which makes light work of raising and lowering a trailer’s landing legs.

A family business through and through, Jamie runs VIOWAM alongside his daughters Natalie and Naomi, who have also been around trucks their entire lives. Together, the family is dedicated to bringing quality products to Australia from across the globe.

While they manage the day to day running of the busi-

ness, Jamie continues to keep the wheels turning out on the road.

“I could eventually jump out of the truck but it’s a scary thing to think about giving it up, I’ve been doing this for a long time,” he said.

“A lot of people don’t realise what a truck means to us older fellas, who’ve been in the industry for all these years. Our trucks really do mean a lot to us.”

Jamie’s hope is to create the foundations of a multi-generational business that continues for decades to come – which was also the inspiration for the company’s name, derived from the first two letters of his grandchildren’s names: Vin-

cent, Owen and Amelia. As Natalie added, “Dad wants to build this business up, and then have something that can be passed on through the generations.” She continued, “Dad will always do anything he can to help people, so through VIOWAM, he wants to help people find the best solutions with the best products; and he wants them to be affordable too because he knows what it’s like to have to make sacrifices in order to keep your truck moving.”

To find out more about VIOWAM Industries or to view the full range of products, please visit viowam. com.au.

Michael, Naomi, Jamie and Natalie are all smiles as the first shipment of SIYAM truck radiators land in Australia.

PACCAR Parts expands its horizons

Handling everything from the smallest nuts and bolts right up to full-size truck cabs, PACCAR Parts newly expanded Bayswater Parts Distribution Centre promises superior service for PACCAR customers across Australia.

PACCAR Parts’ giant ware housing, manufacturing and Parts Distribution Centre (PDC) in the Melbourne sub urb of Bayswater has benefit ed from a major investment and expansion designed to accommodate an even wider range of parts to support the company’s dealers and cus tomers throughout Australia.

The Bayswater site, which has been the home of Ken worth truck manufacturing in Australia since 1971, with more than 80,000 Kenworth trucks built there over the years, is the company’s main Australian operation, sharing distribution duties with PAC CAR’s recently expanded dis tribution centre in Brisbane.

The development is the lat est step in PACCAR’s goal of keeping Aussie trucks moving by further improving the time it takes for essential parts to reach dealers, said PACCAR Parts General Manager Mark Santschi.

TO BE ABLE TO CONTINUE TO SUPPORT OUR CUSTOMERS INTO THE FUTURE, WE NEEDED SPACE TO HOLD MORE INVENTORY TO BE ABLE TO GET PARTS TO OUR DEALERS FASTER.”

The multimillion-dollar project has been some four and a half years in the making, from when the idea was first approved to the initial stages of construction in July 2023, and subsequent completion in December 2024.

“The original PDC was built in 1985 and then extended on in 1996 when it more than doubled in size. With this update we’ve increased it by nearly 50 per cent again to 15,700 square metres,” said Bayswater PDC Manager Kylie Kurczewski.

“To be able to continue to support our customers into the future, we needed space to hold more inventory to be able to get parts to our dealers faster. We had inventory stored at offsite facilities which is obviously not as efficient and easy to handle. So, we were already bursting at the seams with the volumes that we were holding.”

Santschi added that the expansion project drew on ideas and innovation from PACCAR’s other PDCs around the world.

These include a mezzanine level in the new facility, a spiral conveyor system, and parts.

“With the addition of the mezzanine, all parts that are up to 2kg are now stored there. There’s about 13,000 parts and when you consider that we’ve got about 27,000 parts in the warehouse, that’s a huge chunk of our parts volume now up in the mezzanine,” said Kurczewski.

“The other cool piece of technology in the new PDC is a spiral conveyor system. We use a lift to get all our inventory up into the mezzanine, but once we’ve picked it into individual boxes for the dealers, we load those boxes onto the conveyor which travels in a spiral direction from top-tobottom, then loads into a conveyor where we can collect the

Another development de signed to improve workplace health and safety is the introduction of electrically-powered motorised carts to ferry picked stock, and height-adjustable receiving benches that are safer and more ergonomic for team members of different statures.

“We pick stock into carts from the mezzanine and those carts are now motorised – they basically run on drill batteries and drive electrically – so the team no longer need to physically push the carts and product, which reduces the risk of shoulder injuries.

“In addition, all our new work benches for staff on the floor will be height adjustable, which is a luxury that usually

only office staff have. This will really make it safer and more comfortable for everyone.”

Santschi says the new PDC is also more environmentally friendly, thanks to the fitment of rooftop solar panels and additional water storage tanks.

“The entire new section of the building has a 257-kilowatt rooftop solar system that enables us to capture energy from sunlight. There’s also 16 new water storage tanks in addition to the 12 we already had. The water that’s captured services grey water for toilets, gardening and things like that, with excess water pumped across to be used in the truck plant in the paint facility.”

He went on to explain, “We’re not yet fully linked up to our building management system which manages everything including lights, aircon, and so on. But once the solar panels are hooked into that system it should cut our energy consumption by about a third.”

The expansion of the Bayswater PDC means PACCAR is now better able to balance the workload between its Brisbane and Melbourne operations, following the doubling in size last year of PACCAR’s

Brisbane PDC.

“It’s all about how quickly we can get our parts to our dealers. It doesn’t really matter which PDC it comes out of, it’s just who gets there the fastest,” said Kurczewski.

“While we’ve expanded here in Melbourne, we’re processing less lines because we’re sharing the load between the two PDCs to make us more effective at supporting our dealers. That also allows for future growth and ensures we’re not maxing out in one location.

“In terms of the benefit these changes are going to give us in the warehouse, there is not a single process that we do today, whether that be receiving, picking or shipping, that isn’t going to have a process

KYLIE KURCZEWSKI

improvement and an efficiency improvement. Kurczewski continued, “We’ve redefined and are relaying all our pick paths to make them more efficient. We’ve also been able to adjust our aisle widths to make it safer, which also makes it more efficient. So, every process that we do to try and get our parts as efficiently to the dealers as possible will have an improvement.”

By expanding the Bayswater PDC so soon after the Queensland expansion PACCAR aims to increase customer uptime by adding a greater breadth of product and increasing its ability to service customers within 24 hours.

“PACCAR remains committed to providing outstanding product availability and customer service across Australia. With more than 250,000 available truck parts and accessories, we try to ensure our PDCs stock every imaginable part our customers may need,” said Santschi. He explained that this was achieved in several ways including utilising the company’s highly efficient inventory management, innovative warehousing technologies such as that on display at the new Bayswater PDC, managed dealer inventory, and PACCAR’s extensive dealer network.

The PACCAR Parts dealer network stretches right across Australia covering all major routes and metro areas, with dealers stocking a wide range of genuine and branded replacement truck parts to fit all models of Kenworth and DAF trucks as well as mainstream US and European drivelines.

This latest expansion brings the PACCAR Parts Bayswater Parts Distribution Centre to 15,700 square metres.

The multimillion-dollar project was completed in December 2024.

The Bayswater PDC and head office.

[L-R] PACCAR Australia Managing Director Damian Smethurst, PACCAR Vice President Bryan Sitko, Operations Support Manager Bryan Hiew, Bayswater PDC Manager Kylie Kurczewski, and PACCAR Parts General Manager Mark Santschi. Images: PACCAR Parts

Scania announces special offer

SCANIA has released a special limited-time offer for new owners of its Euro 6 compliant rigid trucks.

The new offer provides Euro 6 retail customers with up to six years of free servicing and up to six years of Scania Finance funding options.

“As the pioneer brand bringing Euro 6 to the Australian market across the

Nye said Scania rigids are used across the country in a variety of roles, some more high profile than others.

“We have red Scania rigid trucks working as fire appliances in all states and territories, we have white waste trucks similarly working in urban and regional centres, while jet vac drainage trucks, cement pumpers, tilt trays,

WE ARE WELL PLACED TO WELCOME NEW CUSTOMERS WHO MAY BE LOOKING FOR A EURO 6 SOLUTION FOR THE FIRST TIME,” BENJAMIN NYE

G-series cab with our 9-litre or 13-litre engines as well as the spacious R- and S-series cabs, and a range of engines from our 13-litre six-cylinder, all the way to our flag-

“Given the recent change to legislation in Australia mandating Euro 6 emissions compliance, Scania can instantly service the needs of uro 6 rigid customers, many of whom may not have con-

To meet the needs of this new audience, Scania has devised a highly attractive limited time offer across Australia for retail customers selecting a Euro 6 rigid truck, comprising up to six years of free servicing and up to six years of Scania Finance Australia funding options.

“Of course, our Scania rigid trucks perform just as well on the road and under load, returning excellent fuel economy, high levels of up

time, industry-leading levels of active and passive safety, and dependable reliability even in the harshest of operating environments,” Nye added.

“Importantly, our company-owned service network has a decade of experience servicing these engines also.”

For more information, contact Scania in your capital city. Visit scania.com/au/ en/home.html.

BROKEN CONCRETE?

Super SKIPZ relies on its trusty fleet for its skip bin hire operations.

Enhancing connections

Geotab is

taking its global heavy vehicle industry experience and channeling it into its telematics devices for Australian operators.

GEOTAB’S annual Connect event returned to Florida from February 25-27, 2025, drawing telematics and fleet management professionals from around the world. Over three days, industry leaders explored the future of data-driven mobility – from A I-powered telematics to innovations designed to make roads safer and fleets more efficient. The event was also a platform for major announcements, with Geotab outlining its vision for the evolving transport and logistics sector.

Amid the conversations and insights, Big Rigs spoke with David Brown, associate vice president of APAC, about the future of telematics in Australia and how Geotab is positioning itself to support the next generation of truck fleet management and transportation.

W hile Geotab’s network of 4.7 million connected vehicles globally is largely centred around North America, Brown says the telematics provider is leveraging similarities between the US and Australia to bring the latest technology to local truckies.

“In my opinion, Australia is

quite similar to North America in terms of the industry itself – the real focus in both areas is on compliance,” Brown said.

“There are strong similarities between what we have done in North America, which remains the connected vehicle powerhouse, and what we are implementing in Australia, particularly around work diaries.

“But it’s not just about work diaries – it’s also about automating them electronically and ensuring compliance.”

In Australia, Brown says most people adopt telematics for just one or two specific purposes and don’t often look beyond them. Geotab’s focus has been on educating these customers that their telematics devices can be used in so many ways.

Whether it be making data easy to interpret or creating pre-built templates in its safety, maintenance and sustainability centres, these dashboards seek to open the local industry’s eyes to what else Geotab can do for the sector.

“There are a few barriers to what we’re trying to achieve, including the demographic of the Australian truck industry, but we believe education plays a role in helping them understand the benefits,” explained Brown.

“Implementing the technology is one thing, but knowing how to use it effectively and make actionable decisions is another challenge.

“It’s a challenge, as telematics itself is not new in Australian heavy transport, but what we’re doing with AI and other advancements is new.”

Another way in which Geotab is trying to enhance the use of telematics in the local trucking industry is through maintenance insights. By integrating data into Power BI, Geotab is making it simpler to push data through these platforms for major operators. Via these templates, businesses can quickly spot anomalies, drill down to the details and get a resolution fast, meaning key information is communicated quicker than before.

Brown added that the compliance side of technology adoption is also a major focus for Geotab within the

A PAC market. Currently, electronic work diaries aren’t yet mandated in Australia, meaning operators can still use manual versions. This means that compliance isn’t the sole reason why businesses adopt telematics devices in Australia.

From an occupational health and safety (OHS) perspective, telematics devices can help operators locate where their vehicles and drivers are at all times, to help adhere to Chain of Responsibility requirements.

It’s this secondary safety stream, alongside additional benefits, that Brown and the local Geotab team are focusing on when it comes to educating operators about the role that telematics can play in Australia.

“Compliance and safety remain key drivers, but more businesses are also starting to recognise the potential benefits of telematics beyond that, particularly in fuel cost savings,” Brown said.

“About a decade ago, telematics was seen as a surveillance tool. Today, it’s more about protection for drivers and using the technology to

save money and improve efficiency.”

It’s this range of factors that Geotab is using to position its suite of solutions as a beneficial partner for many Australian truck operators.

“Moving forward in Australia, I think we’ll see less hardware in vehicles, so Geotab will keep providing an open platform that is easy to integrate with,” Brown said.

“We will keep educating operators to not be scared of telematics, because it’s there to save you money. Every single department within a business gets value from it. It’s going to save lots of money and give operators huge visibility and security over their fleet.”

President of APAC, David Brown. Images: Geotab

Geotab is working to show the industry how its telematics devices can be used in so many ways.

40 DRIVELINE FEATURE SPONSORED CONTENT

AT the end of February, TAFE Queensland, in collaboration with the Queensland Trucking Association (QTA), hosted the Driving Tomorrow: Industry Innovation, Workforce Solutions, and the Road Ahead event at the Acacia Ridge campus. This significant gathering brought together industry leaders, educators, and innovators to discuss the future of the heavy vehicle industry, highlighting challenges, opportunities, and the evolving workforce landscape.

The event kicked off with a dynamic panel discussion addressing pressing challenges in the heavy vehicle industry. Topics spanned the adoption of heavy electric vehicles (EVs), the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), and TAFE Queensland’s innovative training solutions.

The panel identified strategies to cultivate a more inclusive workplace culture, attract and retain skilled truck drivers, and develop advanced training programs to meet future workforce demands.

Panellists included key figures from the sector – Gary Mahon from QTA, Camilla Elmes from Industry Skill Australia, Paul Kahlert from All Purpose Transport, Nathan Anderson and Alfons Schoenauer from Volvo Australia, and David Jenkinson from TAFE Queensland. Their insights highlighted the necessity for collaboration and adaptability to navigate the industry’s evolving landscape.

The Australian heavy vehicle industry is a vital component of the nation’s economy, employing over 70,000 professionals across design, manufacturing, servicing, and repair sectors. In 2024, truck sales reached a record-breaking 50,000 units, with projections for 2025 anticipating sales surpassing 550,000 vehicles. The market size is expected to reach $10.5 billion, creating an unprecedented de-

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To find out more about Penrite and our Australian Made products, please visit penriteoil.com.au.

Penrite RED OEM Coolant is Cummins, MTU, MAN, Mercedes Benz and Scania approved for warranty service.

Key industry panellists from QTA, Industry Skills Australia, All Purpose Transport, Volvo Australia and TAFE Queensland. Images: TAFE Queensland

Penrite’s EC01 Coolant is available in concentrate and premix variants. Images: Penrite

Penrite PGXL Coolant is formulated to provide excellent high temperature protection as well as long term corrosion protection.

Volvo Australia’s new release Volvo FH Aero Electric Truck on display at TAFE Queensland’s Acacia Ridge Campus.

Lazer launches new AIR LED light bar

LAZER Lamps Ltd, a leading British manufacturer of premium LED lighting solutions, has officially launched its new AIR LED light bar in Australia and New Zealand.

Developed specifically for the heavy truck and commercial vehicle markets, AIR delivers a powerful blend of cutting-edge performance, durability, and modern design – all packed into one sleek unit.

Born from Lazer’s in-house UK design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise, AIR represents the next generation

in vehicle lighting. Each unit features anodised pre-treatment followed by an automotive-grade powder top-coat. The result? Exceptional corrosion and chemical resistance.

A IR also includes an ‘unbreakable’ hard-coated polycarbonate lens with a lifetime guarantee, IP68 watertight rating, and advanced electronic thermal management to preserve the longevity of the LEDs.

Whether it’s facing bull dust on remote stretches of the Stuart Highway or battling ice

and snow in the Arctic Circle, AIR is built to endure. That durability is backed by Lazer’s comprehensive 5-year warranty across all models – giving operators real peace of mind on the road.

What further sets AIR apart is its 5000K colour temperature, which delivers a natural light output, as close to normal daylight as possible. This not only reduces eye fatigue during long overnight drives but also cuts glare off reflective road signs – something long distance drivers will appreciate

when clocking up the kilometres on state-to-state hauls.

Equipped with ultra-reflective, vacuum-metallised optics, AIR’s beam pattern is engineered for optimal light distribution – both vertically and horizontally. It’s especially effective when mounted high, such as on bull bars, roof racks, or cab-mounted light brackets, making it a seamless fit for heavy-duty rigs, as well as light-duty commercial vehicles.

Adding to its appeal, the AIR range features Lazer’s new ‘Centre Mount’ system for easy installation with a clean, low-profile finish.

The patent-pending, injection-moulded monocoque lens has a unique textured finish, while the choice of integrated white or amber DRL light guides offers a slick, customisable look.

These visual elements not only boost safety and visibility in both day and night driving but also complement the aesthetic upgrades many truck owners now pursue as part of their vehicle builds.

The AIR ‘90’ is named for its power consumption and delivers an impressive 9160 raw lumens with a 1 lux reach of 574m – matching the performance of Lazer’s well established Triple-R 1000 series. This performance makes it an excellent fit for both owner-operators looking for reliability and fleet operators

seeking a consistent, durable lighting solution across multiple vehicles.

Lazer Founder and Managing Director Ben Russell-Smith commented, “The launch of AIR marks the expansion of our offering to the Australian heavy truck and commercial vehicle markets, sitting alongside the established Triple-R Range.

AIR delivers the same level of high-performance light output and incredible build quality but offers an alternative aesthetic appeal to customers with its contemporary design. We are incredibly proud of AIR and the innovation behind its development, which reflects the culmination of our extensive in-house UK design, engineering, and manufacturing expertise.”

For Australian operators, where lighting plays a crucial role in both safety and performance – particularly on regional routes, unlit highways, and in remote work zones – AIR presents a dependable upgrade. Whether you’re hauling across the Nullarbor, navigating regional deliveries, or managing a mixed-use fleet, the AIR LED light bar offers a practical, stylish lighting solution that’s built to last. The AIR-90 and Lazer’s full truck lighting range are available to order now in Australia and New Zealand and are backed by a comprehensive 5-year warranty.

For more information, visit lazerlamps.com.au or contact Lazer directly at sales@ lazerlamps.com.au.

LAZER TRUCK LIGHT SOLUTIONS

The latest innovation from Lazer Lamps, designed for heavy trucks and commercial vehicles, the AIR-90 offers unmatched lighting performance within a sleek, robust and contemporary design. With incredible durability and advanced technology AIR represents the pinnacle of on-road illumination and style.

Lazer Lamps

10 Four Truck Repairs helps ensure the Top Fuel Dragster is transported securely. Image: NEAPEAN

Cummins unveils integrated powertrain

IN recent years, Cummins has gone through a remarkable transformation, becoming a genuine powertrain supplier – from engine to transmission to axles and brakes.

Now for the first time, Cummins will showcase its new integrated powertrain at the upcoming Brisbane Truck Show next month.

This world-first display will feature the integration of a Cummins X15 engine, Eaton Cummins 18-speed Endurant speed transmission, and Meritor driveline and axles.

Cummins’ acquisition of Meritor in 2022 was a critical step for the company to be able to roll out a completely integrated powertrain.

The Brisbane Truc k Show will be the first opportunity for the brand to display the combined forces of Cummins and Meritor at an Australian truck show.

While the Meritor business now operates under the banner of Cummins Drivetrain and Braking Systems (CDBS), the Meritor brand is retained for axles and brakes.

“The Brisbane show will be a great opportunity to see the result of the Cummins-Meritor integration and the benefits it offers customers as we bring together complementary power technologies to seamlessly enhance efficiency, performance and lower emissions across the powertrain system,” said David Cole,

Managing Director of CDBS Australia.

“For customers this means lower total cost of ownership and having confidence in system dependability, backed by comprehensive Cummins support across the powertrain.”

HELM innovation

Cummins’ fuel agnostic HELM capability with its X15 engine platform will also be showcased at the Brisbane Truck Show.

“HELM – higher efficiency, lower emissions, multiple fuels – highlights the innovation that is powering us forward,” said Sean McLean, Director and General Manager of On-Highway Business for Cummins Asia Pacific.

The HELM engines are an important element of Cummins’ Destination Zero strat-

egy to go further, faster to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) and air quality impacts of its products.

The industry-first HELM platform basically comprises one block and three-cylinder head options – a compression ignition head for diesel, and spark ignition heads for natural gas and hydrogen (a zero carbon fuel at the tailpipe).

This will be the 15-litre platform for future diesel development and will be released in OEM (original equipment manufacturer) applications for the Australian market in coming years.

The natural gas version of the X15 – the X15N – is now in full production, at Cummins’ Jamestown engine plant in the US, while the hydrogen version – the X15H – is expected to become available later in the decade.

The X15N, the first natural gas engine to be designed specifically for heavy-duty truck applications, is offered with maximum outputs of 500 hp and 1850 lb ft of torque. The X15H will have higher peak outputs of 530 hp and 1900 lb ft of torque.

New X10 engine

Cummins’ new HELM X10 engine will also be displayed at the show.

Cummins X15 specs

Cylinders: Six System

The X10 is a brand new 10-litre platform to be launched in North America and Europe in 2026 and other global markets at a later stage.

While the X10 has fuel agnostic capability and is able to run on hydrogen and natural gas, the diesel version will be available first, compliant with the ultra-low U.S. EPA 2027 and Euro 7 emission regulations.

Diesel will remain a critical technology for the on-high-

way market for years to come, and Cummins will continue to support it. “We are committed to advancing diesel technology while our markets and our customers need it to run their businesses,” said Sean McLean. The diesel X10 will be available with ratings up to 450 hp and peak torque of 1650 lb ft, outputs that will suit short haul and regional trucking operations as well as bus and coach applications.

Cummins’ fuel agnostic HELM platform with the X15 engine. Images: Cummins

Cummins’ new HELM X10 engine.

Cummins integrated drivetrain featuring Cummins X15 engine, Eaton Cummins 18-speed Endurant speed transmission, and Meritor driveline and axles.

Solutions to take your business further

NAPA has cemented its position as a leading provider of specialised heavy-duty products and services across Australia. With a comprehensive range of solutions and a strategically positioned network of branches, NAPA is the trusted partner for truck fleets and workshops seeking reliable, high-performance solutions to

keep their operations running smoothly.

From OE replacement alternators and starter motors to braking components, air conditioning components, lubrication, service parts, and cutting-edge auto electrical accessories, our expertise ensures you stay ahead of industry demands. Backed by smarter

technologies and operational efficiencies, we deliver value that goes beyond expectations. Our branches are strategically located along the National Land Transport Network, ensuring the right parts are available where and when you need them. Supported by the world’s largest supplier of aftermarket components, we combine 100 years of industry knowledge with unrivalled distribution capability. By leveraging national scale and international partnerships, we deliver cost savings and operational benefits tailored to your needs, all with unmatched speed and efficiency.

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Safety is at the core of everything we do. Whether it’s our products, people, or processes, we are committed to continuous improvement to ensure the

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Uncompromising quality

We understand that quality means reliability and reduced downtime. That’s why we maintain ISO 9001 accreditation, extending this rigorous standard to our OE manufacturers and partners. With a focus on consistent quality across a ll areas of our business, we supply only genuine, high-value solutions that help you achieve your operational goals.

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As Australia’s most comprehensive network of heavy-duty parts specialists, we combine deep technical knowledge with a proven ability to solve complex challenges. Our experienced teams provide the insights, advice, and expertise

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WE’RE TAKING YOUR BUSINESS FURTHER

As Australia’s largest vehicle aftermarket parts provider, we’ve built our heritage on keeping you moving - whether it’s one truck or an entire fleet.

From heavy duty air conditioning and alternators to LED lighting, brakes, oils, and tools, our comprehensive range is designed to meet the demands of every workshop and fleet manager.

With over 60 locations on the National Land Transport Network, 24/7 online ordering, and expert customer service, we’re more than just a supplier - we’re your partner in heavy duty brands, range and solutions.

you need to overcome industry demands with confidence.

More than just parts NAPA goes beyond simply supplying components. We are your partner in enhancing safety, productivity, and profitability. Our solutions are tailored to deliver measurable efficiencies for your business, including:

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We know your time is valuable. That’s why our indus-

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The power of partnership

At NAPA, we don’t just sell parts - we deliver solutions that drive efficiency, reliability, and growth. Whether it’s technical expertise, advanced technologies, or tailored supply chain strategies, NAPA is with you for the long haul. We make it our business to drive yours.

For more information, visit napaparts.com.au.

More than parts, NAPA is with you for the long haul. We make it our business to drive yours. Visit

Assistant branch manager at NAPA, Mark Spoor. Images: NAPA NAPA’s branches are strategically located along the National Land Transport Network.

NAPA provides heavy-duty products and services to customers across the country.

Hydrosteer, Australia’s largest heavy vehicle power steering specialists, carrying Australia’s largest range of heavy vehicle power steering and commercial vehicle power steering products. The range includes the following:

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PROUD AUTHORISED

Floodway on Bruce needs urgent upgrade

ENOUGH is enough. This is an SOS to governments on behalf of the road transport industry to urgently upgrade a section of the Bruce Highway known as the Gairloch Floodway, which is located about 6km north of Ingham.

Also known as the Gairloch Overflow, it is a low-lying area which floods after even a modest amount of rain and is also subject to very high tidal activity.

The Bruce Highway gets cut off there often during wet season – and often even with moderate rain.

I can recall being stuck there way back in 2006 when the water rose rapidly as vehicles waited.

A vivid memory is seeing a tractor towing a trailer with vehicles across it, albeit not heavy trucks.

It is almost 19 years on, and nothing seems to have changed, with trucks being held up there again in March.

Having said that, the nearby river crossing has resulted in the highway being heightened.

These include the Seymour River and Arnot Crossing just north. However, the Seymour River section did flood in mid-March.

A detailed design was done to improve safety and reduce

The project aimed to improve safety by upgrading the road with a wide centre line treatment and removing the sharp curve at this location. It also aims to reduce highway closures by improving the level of flood immunity at this section of the highway.

The Gairloch Floodway is located in the centre of a 16km flood-prone section of the Bruce Highway from the southern outskirts of Ingham to the foothills of Cardwell Range.

The Gairloch Floodway normally closes the highway first, and keeps the highway

Drivers angry at scalies

Truckies who got caught up by flooding on parts of the Kennedy Highway in north Queensland were furious over the actions of scalies.

Some contacted Spy to advise that inspectors were out in force at a breakdown pad near the small town of Mt Garnet.

Convoys of trucks used this inland route because much of the Bruce Highway between Mackay and Cairns was flooded for some days.

“Parts of the Kennedy Highway were waterlogged during the floods meaning that lines of up to 150 trucks were held up. Creek levels went up and down and the drivers had little idea about how long they would be stranded for. When the water went down the heavy vehicles took off and the scalies were pulling everyone over at the Mt Garnet pad,” one owner operator said.

Logbooks were checked at length and Spy is told that numerous infringements were issued – often for minor clerical errors.

“They were some very angry drivers there,” another truckie said.

Doon Doon Roadhouse

The Doon Doon Roadhouse located on the Great Northern Highway, 110km south of Kununurra in the NT, is a welcome sight for truckies travelling in the remote area.

Several drivers including a couple from interstate have told Spy they have stopped there and found it good.

“I ordered a steak there and the staff were very friendly and the food was tasty,” a

It is open from 6am to 8pm daily and has parking area for trucks.

Retro roadhouse

When you enter the OOM Energy Roadhouse at Wulguru in north Queensland you will immediately notice the eatery area is different to others.

The theme takes you back to a long-gone era of those retro days of breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The restaurant is aptly dubbed the “Retro Highway Restaurant” and a driver from Deniliquin in NSW told Spy about it.

“I had a meal there the other day and enjoyed it. The atmosphere was great with all the retro stuff,” he said.

When I visited, a road train was parked outside but there is limited space for heavy vehicles.

It is also located right next to the popular Stuart Hotel.

I spoke to manager Sujidh Balan who said about 10 truckies a day stop there.

“They often order either a hamburger with chips for $16 or a rump steak.”

The roadhouse employs 10 staff and its retro items came from Melbourne.

It is open daily from 4am until 10pm.

Roadworks frustrating

Delays whilst roadworks are being carried out along the Great Eastern Highway in WA have proven frustrating for truckies.

Several drivers have told Spy that especially around Southern Cross the time lost can be considerable.

In the Goldfields-Esperance region, construction nd sealing is continuing on

the 11km section between Southern Cross and Ghooli.

“There are roadworks going on everywhere with 60km and 80km/h speed limits,” one said.

Road reconstruction, widening and sealing has been ongoing along the 4.4km stretch between Carrabin and Bodallin; 4.6km between Nulla Nulla South Road and approximately 700m west of Liddel Road (west of Moorine Rock); and 2.4km between Liddell Road and Granich Road (west of Moorine Rock).

Upgrades to the intersections of Smyth Road, Nulla Nulla North Road, Bin Road and Granich Road will also be undertaken, along with the installation of new safety barriers, kerbs, signs, audible edge lines and wide centre line road markings.

The bottom line is that most truckies realise the highway will be much safer when the work is complete.

Coolgardie

rest area

He added that numerous trucks stop there and as a bonus there is a hook-up area.

“I never see many caravans there,” he said.

There are rubbish bins, potable water and it boasts good Telstra, Optus and TV reception.

Iconic rubbish bins to remain

After community outcry, common sense has prevailed and those iconic Penguin themed bins will remain in the streets of the beautiful Tasmanian town.

Local authorities had threatened to replace the bins which are a genuine tourist attraction in scenic Penguin, which is located 18km east of Burnie and 131km north-west of Launceston.

In what is a wise decision, the Central Coast Council has reversed its decision to replace the iconic penguin-themed rubbish bins.

A reason for wanting to replace them was so the region could have consistent bins across the municipality for easier emptying and repairs.

In the final analysis, it was public feedback which resulted in the decision being reversed.

Council acknowledged the importance of considering community wishes alongside practicalities.

While the review aimed to improve waste management, council recognised the unique character of the town and its famous penguin-themed foreshore.

No fixed addresses

A small percentage of truck drivers Spy speaks to have no

The Gairloch Overflow on the Bruce Highway floods quickly. Images: Alf Wilson

Alf Wilson at the flooded crossing on the Bruce.

Inside, the OOM Energy Roadhouse has a retro theme. Penguin town.

Second-generation driver feeling better than ever

FRIENDLY Cairns-based driver Cory Robinson has shed 60kg in weight and says he feels great.

The 40-year-old truckie drives a 2001 Volvo FH12 for Mustard Seed Refrigerated Transport and was on a fatigue break in Townsville when Big Rigs saw him.

“I have been a driver most of my life and was raised around trucks. My dad George was a driver as well,” he said.

Cory was carrying meat from Biggenden in the North

Burnett region and was heading towards Cairns.

“I was held up for a day recently in Cairns because of the floods,” he said.

Cory said the worst road he gets along is the Bruce Highway between Home Hill and Bowen.

As for rest areas, Cory said there are not enough for drivers, especially around Cairns.

“There are none where you can stop for a shower and most of the businesses who

have them close at 6pm,” he said.

I asked Cory if he has any hobbies and he was quick to reply.

“I like watching the Supercars and have been to the Towns ville event but don’t know if I will get to the coming one. Also I really am into trucks,” he said.

Despite having lost the weight and now enjoying the benefits of being healthier, Cory has one more target. “I want to lose another 30kg,” he said.

Truckie beats the floods

Veteran truckie and his trusty Mack

VETERAN owner operator Gary Evans had just purchased five giant cooked mud crabs when we saw him parked along Stuart Drive on the outskirts of Townsville.

“I have just eaten one and it was delicious. It was a bargain for the five for $100 on special at Cleveland Seafoods on Ingham Road. I love seafood such as prawns as well,” he said.

Aged 65, Gary has been a

truckie for most of his life, since he was 17, and drives an old but trusty Mack Superliner.

The Mack is dubbed ‘Crossbreed’ so I asked Gary for an explanation.

“It has a Cummins motor, a Roadranger gearbox and an Eaton differential,” he said.

Gary was carrying general freight between Brisbane and Townsville, before getting up

to the Atherton Tablelands.

Gary says he likes stopping at the BP Cluden Roadhouse and reckons there are not enough decent rest areas for truckies.

“There is a nice one called Frenchfield on the way to Cl ermont,” he said.

Gary also rates the Belyan do highway between Charters Towers and Clermont as one of the worst.

SPORTING an impressive beard, Mick Sherington works for John West Logistics out of Brisbane and was driving a Volvo FH-6 when Big met up with him.

It was drizzling rain when the 56-year-old truckie was parked at the BP Cluden just before midday.

The Bruce highway between Cardwell and Ingham had closed earlier.

“I was lucky to have made it through before it was closed,” he said.

Mick had hauled roofing material from Brisbane to Townsville.

That was in demand after heavy rain had damaged any roofs in the region.

He says he likes stopping at the Choice Roadhouse in Cardwell for several reasons.

“They serve up a good meal and the staff are friendly,” he said.

Mick started off driving trucks when he was young and in the Australian Defence Force.

“I used to drive Unimogs,” he said.

I asked Mick the worst highway he gets on. “It would be between Yaamba and Carmila in Queensland.”

With such an impressive beard, I asked Mick if he planned on letting it continue to grow.

“No, I think I will have a shave soon,” he said.

Cory Robinson with the 2001 Volvo FH12 he drives for Mustard Seed Refrigerated Transport.

Gary Evans drives a trusty old Mack Superliner he calls ‘Crossbreed’.

Following in family footsteps

IN the latest instalment of our regular Truckies through Ararat series, photographer/writer Darryl E ting Ararat caught up for

a quick chat and pic with Travis Gorton who drives for Argent and Walker

Travis: A bit over four years now full-time.

Darryl: What are you cur-

Darryl: What got you into the industry?

my brother Ashley would be to blame.

Travis: I’ve been around trucks most of my life as my family have owned/ driven trucks, but mainly

I used to go with him any days I had off school and would go learn the ropes on the way the job should be done and would go help him wash every Friday afternoon.

DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS. IT DOESN’T MATTER IF IT TAKES YOU LONGER TO DO A JOB, AS LONG AS YOU’RE DOING IT SAFE AND LEARNING ALONG THE WAY, THAT’S THE MAIN THING.”

Da rryl: Do you have a favourite roadhouse and what is your go-to feed?

Travis: Good roadhouses are slowly becoming hard to find either closing down or shut by 6pm but my two favourites would have to be Ararat Roadhouse and Charlton Roadhouse.

My go-to meal would be either parma chips and salad or steak chips and salad.

Da rryl: Do you have any advice to the next generation of truck drivers?

Travis: Being a young operator myself still, I would say don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about anything, or ask for help if you’re stuck. Don’t compare yourself to others. If it takes you longer to do the same job then what it takes others to do it doesn’t matter, as long as you’re doing it safe and learning along the way, that’s the main thing in my opinion.

Darryl: What do you do away from the job to wind down?

Travis: I like to spend time with family and friends, go camping and the occasionally fishing. Da rryl: Do you have a dream truck you’d like to own one day?

Travis: If I was to ever own my own truck, it would be the pick of a Kenworth T909, T659 or C509.

Travis Gorton currently drives a T900 Legend for Argent and Walker Trading. Image: Truckspotting Ararat

A truckie’s life in pictures

This veteran interstate truckie has combined his two passions –documenting almost 30 years behind the wheel through the camera lens.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

SINCE he started driving trucks in the 1990s, 55-yearold Cam Deans has travelled to every state and territory except Tassie, from behind the wheel of a big rig.

Currently based in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region, Cam grew up in Perth – and spent stints living in Darwin, Sydney and Brisbane.

His travels across this vast Australian landscape have offered a perfect opportunity to capture the life of a truckie in pictures.

From 16 years of running east-west, to working for some of the industry’s major players, to owning his own fleet of four trucks – Cam’s time on the road has been anything but drab.

“The first thing I would pack into the truck was the camera bag. I’ve got four banana boxes filled with photos – some good and some not so good,” he told Big Rigs, as he spoke about his career, reminiscing about the good old days of comradery and developing lifelong friendships with those he met out on the road.

“I’ve taken thousands of photos. It wouldn’t be uncommon for me to shoot four or five rolls of film in one trip,” said Cam.

“If I was running into Sydney, I had a couple of places I’d go to get them developed – and I’d double check they’d be ready that day, before I had to head back west. I would get the photos developed while on the road wherever I could. I’d keep the good shots and throw away the shit ones.

“Now everything is on the phone. I do still love it but there was something about the manual photography.

“It wasn’t uncommon when I’d be travelling at night through outback NSW with two or three trucks, you’d all stop together and have a laugh. I’d set up a tripod, cable release, three lenses and take a heap of photographs.”

Cam says his love of trucks

was inspired by a friendship he struck up with a truckie named Shane Robertson,

when he was in his teens. However it wasn’t until Cam was in his mid-twenties that

he decided to give trucking a crack. He got his start in trucks

with a company called Winmarley’s. “I was pretty disillusioned after ringing around

and struggling to get a job because I didn’t have the experience,” explained Cam.

“But they let me have a crack, and the rest was history. I was there about 18 months. That was the start of it all. It was the operations manager there, Bob Sadick, who gave me my start.”

At Winmarley’s Cam drove a 1988 Kenworth T600 with a Detroit engine and 14-speed Spicer gearbox. “I was glad I cut my teeth on a Spicer first up. Not the easiest box to master,” Cam said.

“A driver named Johnno Warren was working at Winmarley’s when I first started. He lives not far from me now in the Wheatbelt and we’ve remained good friends. I’ve gained invaluable knowledge from him over the years.” Cam quickly got onto the interstate runs, travelling to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. Though he admits the industry back then in the 1990s was a far cry from what it is today.

“A lot of trucks were capable of 140km/h plus. Myself and a lot of us used the extra legs when needed. There was

Cam currently drives a Mack Super-Liner, doing local tipper work around the Wheatbelt.

Cam Deans with his 10-year-old daughter Olivia. Images: Cam Deans

In his younger days, carting light poles from Perth to Olympic Stadium in Sydney when it was being built.

Winmarley’s is where he got his start in trucking in the 1990s.

At one stage, Cam ran his own fleet of four trucks including this 1981 W-model Kenworth.

Cam says he preferred taking long exposure night photos without a flash on the old manual cameras – some photos worked out, lots didn’t.

a time and a place to do it,” laughed Cam.

“It wasn’t uncommon for a lot of interstate drivers to have quick trucks. It would make your head spin now. I was beating today’s two-up teams on my own.

“I was doing Perth to Melbourne in 36 hours, Perth to Sydney in 46 hours, and Perth to Brisbane in 46 hours.

“Then they decided to slow the trucks down, first speed-limiting them to 110km/h, then down to 100km/h.”

From Winmarley’s, Cam started working for BJR Transport. As he explained, “Brad ‘BJ’ Auhl was an owner operator who needed a two-up driver, so I started doing that.”

The pair would cart ammonium nitrate out of Perth to

a mine in Broken Hill, then either go down to Port Pirie and load lead for Sydney or head out to Lake Menindee and load cotton that went into Penrith.

“BJ is sadly no longer with us but I owe a lot of what I know to him. He was a little bit older than me and came from a successful family truck business. R arely did people become friends doing two-up, but we did – and we did that together for a good couple of years,” revealed Cam.

“BJ was fastidious with his truck, a 1986 Kenworth W-Model with a 400 Cat engine and an 18-speed Roadranger. It was immaculate in every way.

“The best time of my life was on the road in the mid 1990s and beyond. My time at Kin-

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near Trans running Brisbane and my time at Time Road Transport running to Sydney were the best jobs. They were both family businesses and were great people to work for. Thanks to Bob, Karen Kinnear and family, and Michael and Karen Straits and family, it was a pleasure to go to work.”

A lot of my friends now are still from that era and the comradery and loyalty can’t be beaten.”

Cam went on to work in various roles, including running his own small transport fleet, carting clay for a newly opened brickworks in Perth and running to the north-west of the state. He did that for about five years until he decided to sell his trucks and go back to working for an employer after

a relationship break-up.

Today, Cam is behind the wheel of a 2015 Mack Superliner, pulling a set of grain tippers and carting lime, sand and gypsum to local farms throughout the Wheatbelt.

Cam has fond memories from his many years of travelling across the country, but says now the local work suits him best.

“I have a 10-year-old daughter so I want to be closer to home. I also have a 33-year-old daughter and spent so much time away when she was growing up – and missed so much.”

Looking back on his early years in trucking, Cam says a lot has changed on the road. “Back in the early days when I was driving interstate, I thought it was the best job in the world. The freedom of

SUSPENSION HELPER

driving is what I love and that was the motivator when I got into trucking.

“Now you couldn’t get away with anything we were doing back then!”

Cam believes that the over-regulation of the industry has sadly taken much of the enjoyment out of the job, adding to issues with attracting people into truck driving.

“There needs to be some sort of enjoyment in what you do for a job. There has to be something interesting, something that keeps you there.

The looseness of the industry back in the day and the fact there was still a job that had to be done, was probably a big attraction to me. Now it’s so heavily regulated,” he said. “

“It wasn’t uncommon back then to be parked up with 30

drivers on the side of the road around a bonfire. That doesn’t happen now. We were always responsible – we never drank and drove.

“Whenever you saw someone stopped, you’d always help each other out, whether it was to fix a tyre or anything else – regardless of whether you knew the person or not. And that’s how a lot of friendships were made. I still have many friends over in the eastern states because of that.

“Sadly, there are a lot of drivers out there who aren’t qualified to do the job. Then there are others with untold experience and skills they could pass onto the next generation. But sadly, so many of these old-timers have given it up because it’s gotten too dangerous out there.”

TRUCK AIRBAGS

A glorious sunset at Baandee Lakes, WA, during the 2024/25 harvest.

While at Time Road Transport in 2002, Cam was given the opportunity to drop his trailers and go camping up the mountain to see the Bathurst 1000.

Intermodal connectivity imperative for freight future

be overstated. In my role as VTA CEO, and in over 40 years working in the transport industry, I have seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities within our industry.

PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

AS we reflect on the discussions and insights shared at the recently concluded VTA State Conference, it is worth reflecting on the future of freight movement in Australia.

The theme of this year’s conference, “Safety First: Empowering People, Boosting Productivity, Shaping Transport’s Future,” underscored the importance of a holistic approach to our industry.

Our discussions extended beyond road freight to include a comprehensive intermodal strategy that integrates road, rail, air, and sea transport.

The necessity for intermodal connectivity cannot

The f uture of freight movement hinges on our ability to seamlessly connect various modes of transport. Th is integration is vital to maintaining and improving the standard of living for all Australians.

Heavy vehicles play a unique and irreplaceable role in the delivery process. While ships, trains, and planes are essential for transporting goods over long distances, it is the trucks that ensure these goods reach their final destinations.

The volumes of freight are not going to decrease, and the physical handling of goods remains indispensable. We must strive to move t hese goods in the most productive, efficient, and safe manner possible.

However, the current infrastructure is insufficient

to meet future logistics demands. Building more roads a lone will not solve the problem.

We need to explore and invest in other modes of transport to handle the increasing freight volumes. Th is requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government agencies, industry operators, and a ssociations.

Productivity gains and continuous improvement are essential for the future of our industry and were a focus of much discussion at the conference. By adopting innovative technologies a nd optimising our logistics processes, we can enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Embracing automation, data analytics, and advanced supply chain management practices will enable us to meet the growing demands of our customers while maintaining high standards of safety and service. These improvements are not just beneficial but necessary to

It’s time to talk about ‘The

I am writing this article as a Lived Experience suicide thriver and to share with you my experience in the suicidality space.

In my case it was just over 15 years ago that I was 200 metres from taking my own life. I had the rifle and had to walk 250 metres and climb through the fence.

I walked 50 metres and fortunately realised that I needed to get help. At the

time I was managing a medium road transport operation a mong other businesses.

You may not be aware of the word suicidality. Suicidality is the step before suicide and is the language that should be used in the awareness of suicide and suicide prevention.

Suicide has touched just about everyone we know including ourselves. Sometimes this has been closer t han we care to recall.

Sadly individuals taking their own lives has touched a lot more people in the road transport industry than most other industry sectors. The lifestyle and the pressures and stress of being in an industry that by its workings has numerous risks.

The title The Silent Victims above is to highlight how the drivers in this critical industry are sometimes silent victims, in the very real world of an individual taking their own lives.

Drivers who are unfortunate enough to be in the wrong place at the wrong time become the victims of someone else’s decision to take their own life.

This event has enormous impact on the people involved with long lasting consequences. I have helped drivers who have been silent victims move on with their lives.

The unfortunate part of this outcome is not only the event itself but the flow on impact this has on driver,

stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Unfortunately, support from some federal government agencies has been lacking.

The focus on autonomous vehicles and the competition between different modes of transport is regressive. We need policies that promote intermodal harmonisation and support the entire transport and logistics industry.

A gencies like Austroads and the National Transport Commission must step up their game. They need to engage with the industry and develop policies that improve the working environment for all stakeholders.

The slow progress of the national heavy vehicle driver licensing framework and the Heavy Vehicle National Law review is another area of concern. We need well-trained a nd competent heavy vehicle drivers from the start of their careers.

The ongoing review, which began in 2017, has yet to produce significant changes

or a clear pathway for improvement. This delay hampers our industry’s ability to operate efficiently and safely.

The Victorian government, on the other hand, has shown strong support for our industry. Major infrastructure projects like the West Gate Tunnel Project and the North East Link are set to transform freight movement in the state.

These projects will significantly improve productivity a nd reduce travel times, benefiting the entire industry.

The government’s commitment to road maintenance a nd stakeholder engagement is also commendable. Investing an average of $2.6 million daily in road maintenance ensures that our roads c an support the heavy vehicle movements essential for our economy.

The future of freight movement in Australia depends on our ability to embrace intermodal connectivity and develop robust logistics policies. We must work together to create an environment

Major infrastructure projects like the North East Link are set to transform freight movement in the state. Image: Victorian Government

t hat supports the efficient and safe movement of goods.

The VTA will continue to advocate for our industry, calling out those who hold us back and pushing for the necessary changes.

With the right support and understanding from government agencies, we can boost productivity, enhance safety, and shape a prosperous f uture for the transport and logistics industry.

The collaboration between public and private sectors is essential to achieving these goals and ensuring a resilient and efficient freight system for the years to come.

Silent Victims’ of transport

their families and the transport business involved.

If you are an owner driver the consequences can be c atastrophic. In every fatal accident involving a heavy vehicle, the heavy vehicle is deemed to be at fault by default.

The vehicle is impounded and the inspected with the intention to prepare the necessary report for the Coroner. The fatality will be a suicide statistic depending on the findings of the Coroner.

Irrespective of the Coroners finding, the driver is left with having to live with the outcome irrespective. If they are an owner-driver or a small fleet operator it could well be the financial ruin of their business.

As I have I have said, I have helped driver move on with their lives and try and pick up the pieces.

The Silent Victims are not only the drivers but their families and people they love and care about. The people who have to live with the person who went to work one day happy and loving what they do, now broken and lost.

If you are a Silent Victim seek help for yourself and the people who you love and care about and who love and care about you.

There are a number of organisations that can help.

Lifeline on 13 11 14 is a good starting point.

If you want to talk to someone who has lived experience in the road freight transport

sector, I urge you to give me a call any time.

In recent times I have become a CORES Suicide Intervention Facilitator to add to my other modalities of Clinical Hypnotherapist, Lived Experience Life and Business Coach and Mindfulness Facilitator.

CORES Suicide Intervention was first rolled out in Tasmania back 2003 and is the most realistic suicide intervention training I have come across. CORES actually stands for Community Response to Eliminating Suicide a nd was put together by ordinary people with an ordinary realistic understanding. I plan to share more about CORES in coming editions of Big Rigs

VTA COMMENT

What’s coming up on the trucking calendar

WITH so many trucking events coming up, here are some dates to add to your diaries.

APRIL

Haulin’ the Hume

April 12-13

Luddenham Showgrounds, NSW wshtc.com.au

Join the Haulin’ the Hume crew for their historic road run, following the Old Hume Highway out of Sydney to Yass.

From the new starting point at the Luddenham Showgrounds, the convoy will head up over the famous Razorback, through the Hole in the Wall at Picton, through Mittagong, Berrima and into Goulburn for lunch and a short display.

The convoy will then continue with a drive through the spectacular Cullerin Range into Gunning, passing through the Gasoline Alley in Yass and then on to Gundagai, where the group will have dinner, sharing some photos and laughs as they relive the good old days. Sunday morning will serve up breakfast and farewells before heading back to reality.

Trucking Australia

April 28-30

Adelaide, SA new.truck.net.au/ta

Trucking Australia is the industry’s premier annual event and a great opportunity for industry professionals to meet face-to-face and collaborate on potential solutions.

Join over 400 other delegates at the 2.5-day conference, which presents ample networking opportunities to meet industry experts and a chance to build new connections.

MAY

Brisbane Truck Show

May 15-18

Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, QLD brisbanetruckshow.com.au

The 2025 Brisbane Truck Show is the southern hemisphere’s largest festival of all things trucking, with over 30,000 square metres of exhibitions showcasing the latest trucks, trailers, technologies, and parts and accessories available on the Australian market.

The 2025 show from May

15-18 will be part of Truck Week, a week-long festival incorporating an array of activations in nearby South Bank Parklands, including the Premier Boxing Series, Australia’s Best Show N Shine, and The Depot careers and entertainment hub – plus the Heavy Equipment and Machinery Show at RNA Showgrounds and the Heritage Truck Show at Rocklea.

Camp Quality

Convoy Adelaide

May 25

Victoria Park, Adelaide fundraise.campquality.org. au/convoy/adelaide

Camp Quality’s Convoy is a fun way for anyone who drives a truck to show their support for kids facing cancer and their families. Supporters can cheer on our Adelaide Convoy, as we travel a 36km route around Adelaide and Port Adelaide, starting and finishing at Victoria Park.

The event venue will host a free Family Festival packed with entertainment and experiences catering for kids and adults alike.

Scenic Rim Truck Show

May 31

Jimboomba State School, QLD scenicrimtruckshow.com

Get excited for the Scenic Rim Truck Show! Held from 10am to 6pm, the show will feature plenty of trucks along with market stalls, rides, entertainment, raffles and a live auction. A ll profits will be donated to the KIDS Foundation.

JUNE

Alexandra Truck, Ute and Rod Show

June 7-8

Alexandra, VIC

alexandratruckshow.com.au

The Alexandra Truck Show is back on the King’s Birthday weekend in June this year, with a Sunday Show ‘n’ Shine on the town’s main street, as well as live music, a Victorian woodchop tournament, exhibitions, trade displays, kids’ a musements and a raffle. Come down on Saturday for the local markets, a convoy and truck drivers’ memorial. For more details email trucks@alexandratruckshow.com.au.

JULY

Gold Coast Truck Show

July 27

Mudgeeraba Showgrounds, QLD

Facebook: Gold Coast Truck Show

There will be plenty of trucks, cars and bikes on display, with show awards taking place across all three vehicle categories. The day will have lots to see and do for the whole family, with entertainment provided by cover band Pheonix R ising, who will rock it out on centre stage.

AUGUST

Casino Truck Show

August 2

Casino, NSW

Facebook: Casino Truck Show

The date is set for this year’s Casino Truck Show, one of the biggest events in Australia’s trucking calendar. Tens of thousands of people and hundreds of trucks are expected to descend on the town as usual – last year, truck entries had to be capped at 600. Attendees can look forward to a great day out with food, trade stalls, kids’ amusements and much more.

Festival of Transport 2025

August 28-31

Alice Springs, Northern Territory Facebook: National Road Transport Museum

Held at the National Road Transport Museum’s hometown of Alice Springs, the four-day Festival of Transport 2025 will host various events including the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame Induction, Transport Women Dream Maker Award, Truck Drag Racing and a street parade.

SEPTEMBER

NatRoad Connect 25

September 11-12

Shepparton, VIC natroad.com.au

NatRoad’s annual conference gives you the opportunity to connect with industry representatives, operators, NatRoad members and partners to receive practical operational information and advice. Save the date to your calendar and keep an eye on their website for updates closer to the time.

OCTOBER

Camp Quality

Convoy Perth

October 12

Perth Hockey Stadium, Bentley fundraise.campquality.org. au/convoy/perth

Camp Quality’s Convoy Perth is a fun way for anyone who drives a truck to show their support for kids facing cancer and their families. Supporters will cheer on our Convoy, as we travel a 53km route around Perth City and Osborne Park, starting and finishing at Perth Hockey Stadium. The event venue will host a free Family Festival packed with enter-

Mullumbimby Truck Show

November 8

Mullumbimby, NSW mullumbimbyshow.org.au

tainment and experiences catering for kids and adults alike.

There will be food vans, kids’ rides, face painting, roving entertainment, live music, fundraising awards ceremonies, and the chance to cheer on the returning Convoy.

Plus, you can check out all the trucks and vehicles at the Show ’n’ Shine after the Convoy returns.

NOVEMBER

Brisbane Convoy for Kids

November 1

Brisbane, QLD brisbaneconvoyforkids.com.

au The Brisbane Convoy for Kids is back on November 1, travelling from Larapinta to the Redcliffe Showgrounds. Once it arrives, a family fun day will take place, with a wide range of activities on offer including live entertainment, auctions, food stalls, free kids’ rides, face painting, animal petting, magic shows, and a night lights display. Convoy participants also compete in a range of categories, with awards handed out on the day.

Ulverstone Truck Show

November 1 Ulverstone Showgrounds, Tasmania Facebook: Ulverstone Truck Show

Held as part of the Thank You Day Show, a fundraising event to raise money for Beyond Blue and New Mornings, this year’s truck show component will feature a Kenworth focused show alongside the usual truck show. There will be prizes for both shows and lots of giveaways. The event starts at 9am.

Held in conjunction with the annual Mullumbimby Agricultural Show on the second Saturday of November each year, you won’t want to miss the Mullumbimby Truck Show! This event will feature a truck parade through the town, sideshow alley, kids’ rides, food vans, full bar facilities and live music. Other features will include horse and cattle events including trotting.

Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show

November 15

Bathurst Showgrounds NSW bathursttruckshow.com.au The Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show is back, with plenty to see and do for the whole family. More info to come.

Illawarra Convoy

November 16

Illawarra, NSW illawarraconvoy.com.au

Touted as the largest truck and motorbike convoy in the Southern Hemisphere, the Illawarra Convoy raises funds for individuals and families affected by potentially life threatening medical conditions, together with charities that work with these people, and local hospitals.

Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show

November 29-30

Castlemaine, VIC rotarycastlemaine.org.au/ page/truck-show

Held at Campbells Creek Recreation Reserve and organised by the Castlemaine Rotary Club, this year’s truck show is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever. Attendees can expect plenty of well-presented trucks on display, as well as food, a licenced bar, kids’ rides, free health checks and live music. For more information, visit rotarycastlemaine.org.au/page/ truck-show.

Have you got an event you’d like included in the next Save the Date? Email all the details to danielle.gullaci@ primecreative.com.au.

the whole family. Image: Gold Coast Truck Show

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

Celebrating top-performing dealers

RECOGNISING some of its highest performing dealerships, Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) recently held its Dealer of the Year Awards in Melbourne.

Isuzu has over 70 dealer sites nationwide. These awards are judged not only on new vehicle sales but all facets of a dealer business, including customer care, staff training, inventory management, service support and parts supply.

Each focus area has its own award, with a combination score accounting for the top gong of Isuzu’s Dealer of the Year.

The award structure does not separate metro and regional dealerships, giving every dealership in the country the same opportunity to take the title.

successful year for Isuzu in 2024, which saw the brand

year of Australian truck market leadership, it was the regional dealers that have this time come out on top.

The Isuzu Parts Dealer of the Year was shared between Geelong Isuzu and Ballarat Isuzu, Isuzu Service Dealer of the Year was awarded to Ballarat Isuzu, and Isuzu Sales Dealer of the Year was also won by Ballarat Isuzu.

With such a strong performance across all key areas, Ballarat Isuzu took the major award as the overall Isuzu Dealer of the Year for 2024. It’s the third consecutive year Ballarat Isuzu has won the award and the seventh time in total.

“This is the result of the work the team does on a daily

Easter Group Pty Ltd Easter Group Pty Ltd

73 Formation St, Wacol

basis, so it means a lot to me and a lot to them as well,” said Ballarat Isuzu Dealer Principal Ian Deacon.

“I’m really proud of our performance over the past 12 months.

“With the opening of the new site in July last year, we have been incredibly busy, so a lot of work has been done to achieve these awards.

“Ultimately, it’s always about the customer and their experience – if you can get that right, you get the desired results.”

IAL Head of Network Development, Nathan Ton, praised the winners and the broader dealer network for an outstanding year.

“These awards validate the dealers’ work to ensure cus-

tomers have the right truck, the best sales service and outstanding aftersales support that keeps them on the road,” Ton said.

“As we have seen the need for heavy vehicles across the breadth of Australian industry has broadly maintained its momentum throughout 2024.

“Our congratulations go out to Ian Deacon, who leads an outstanding team that embodies a customer focus and commitment to growth that makes the Isuzu Trucks brand proud in the Ballarat region.

“IAL continues to work with the network to look at opportunities for even better coverage and to maximise the benefits for customers.”

Of particular note is Isuzu’s

all-new model line-up.

IAL’s Director and Chief of Sales and Aftersales Ben Lasry said, “The entire network has been ramping up for the arrival of the new models, and with all our dealerships across the country stepping up, it’s an exciting time.

“It’s fantastic to mark another great achievement for Ballarat Isuzu as our Dealer of the Year, and I think it’s equally important to recognise the high standards that the entire network upholds,” he added.

“The quality of the presentation of Isuzu dealerships across the country is one thing, but the passion and enthusiasm from those within continues to be the real standout for our customers.”

Easter Group, located in Wacol, provides time sensitive road transporting solutions to many companies throughout Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria.

We are a family owned business, operating since 1976. We currently have the following positions available:

OPERATIONS ALLOCATORS

(Brisbane based only)

You will be required to work on a rotating roster including Days-Nights-Weekends

Previous Operations experience preferred.

MC LOCAL, LINEHAUL & 2-UP DRIVERS WANTED

(Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide Based)

Come and work for us as we are committed to:

• Training and further education

• Your safety

• Maintaining an impressive Fleet

On offer are permanent full time and roster positions including paid leave entitlements and public holidays. Drivers will need to be available to be scheduled for work falling across the 7 days of the week.

The successful Applicant will:

• Hold a current MC licence (minimum two years)

• Have knowledge of the HVNL and Load Restraint

• Be professional

• Be reliable

To apply for the Operations/Driver positions please contact Operations Manager or by emailing your resume to

WORKSHOP MECHANICS & TYRE FITTERS WANTED

(Brisbane based only)

To apply for Mechanic positions please forward your resume to Workshop Manager via email to employment@kseaster.com.au

Dealer Principal Ian Deacon received multiple awards for Ballarat Isuzu, including Isuzu Dealer of the Year from IAL Director and CEO Takeo Shindo.

Dealer Principal Jason Cunliffe received a shared Parts Dealer of the Year award for Geelong Isuzu from IAL Director and CEO Takeo Shindo.

‘Driving trucks is in my DNA’

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

A third-generation truck driv er, for 26-year-old Joshua Pyke, there was never any question over which career path he’d eventually take.

It’s an industry he’s lived and breathed ever since he was a little kid. “It’s just in the blood – that’s the only way to say it. Driving trucks is in my DNA,” he said.

Born and raised in Stawell, in Victoria’s Wimmera region, Joshua was shown and taught the ropes by his uncle Mick Pyke, who at 65 years of age is still racking up the miles, working for Stawell Freight ers, where he’s been for many, many years.

Joshua said the family’s foray into trucking all started with his late grandfather, Les ‘Nobby’ Pyke. “He began driving trucks back in the day, doing general freight.”

Joshua also had another uncle who drove trucks, but sadly he never got the opportunity to meet him. “Uncle Mick’s brother Stephen also drove trucks but he passed away in 1991.”

Joshua has fond memories of sitting in the passenger seat, alongside Mick, as he travelled near and far – into Adelaide, Sydney and Brisbane.

IT’S JUST IN THE BLOOD – THAT’S THE ONLY WAY TO SAY IT.”

JOSHUA PYKE

er service is exceptional, the food is phenomenal and the showers are clean. I don’t stop there that often as I usually take all my stuff from home, but if I ever need to pull over, I know that there I always get looked after,” he said.

Asked what the initial attraction to trucks was, he replied, “It just feels like home.”

Joshua got his HC at the age of 19, with his first driving role being tipper work, travelling throughout Victoria and interstate to Adelaide. “I did that for about two and a half years. I got my MC just before my 21st birthday and then I got into general freight, going interstate to Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.” That was until early 2022,

“I remember being down at the Stawell Freighters yard as a kid. Uncle Mick has been there a long time and Pop drove for them too,” revealed Joshua.

Tired

when Joshua started his current driving role with Thomas Foods International.

“I’m in a 2023 Mack Trident – I got the keys to it brand new. It’s B-double refrigerated work and bulk tipper work.”

His set runs are from Stawell and into Murray Bridge in South Australia, along with trips to Adelaide and Melbourne.

Asked about his favourite places to stop, Joshua nominated one particular roadhouse. “A massive shout out to the Ampol Roadhouse at Tailem Bend. The custom-

Though he also added that many of the roads he gets along are in quite the sorry state. “Melbourne to the South Australian border is a disgrace. The freeway finishes at Ararat and then it’s single lane up to Bordertown. You just need to hang on and enjoy the ride. It’s definitely gotten worse over the last few years.”

Looking to further his skills in the industry, recently Joshua also completed his Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations at Kangan Institute – juggling full time work with study.

Along with his recent award win, Joshua is a former school captain and winner of the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Award. He also established a scholarship at his local high school.

Looking ahead, Joshua commented, “I’d like to eventually get into transport operations. That’s’ why I decided to do the course. I wanted to put another feather in the

cap. I don’t think I’d ever be able to give up driving fully though,” said Joshua. “I think I’ll always be around transport. Once you’re in, there’s no getting out!”

Joshua Pyke is behind the wheel of a 2023 Mack Trident. Image: Truckspotting Ararat

Joshua learned from his truckie uncle Mick Pyke, who is still driving trucks today. Image: Joshua Pyke

A very young Joshua with Uncle Mick. Image: Joshua Pyke

CONGRATULATIONS

LRTAQ YOUNG PERSON IN TRANSPORT AWARD 2025 THANK YOU TO ALL FINALISTS