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Issue 525
Executive
Chairman John Murphy
CEO Christine Clancy
Publisher Sarah Baker
Client Success Regina Fellner
Trader Group Sales
Manager James Rock Printing IVE print, NSW ISSN 1449-6348
Where did 2025 go? It's hard to believe sitting here typing this editor's note that the end of the year is just one edition away and we'll be heading into 2026 in the blink of an eye.
It's also somewhat humbling to think that this edition, number 525, equates to more than 40 years that Deals on Wheels magazine has been serving its readers with a mix of trucks and parts for sale and tales about the truck loving community who not only use the beasts to make a living, but also as the basis for passion projects and works of art.
Welcome
to Issue 525 of your Deals on Wheels Magazine
It is an honour, and a privilege to be welcomed into this community as an interloper and to have the opportunity to see first hand just how interconnected the transport world is throughout Australia and beyond.
In this edition we have an extended coverage of the Lights on the Hill event in Toowoomba, which is a poignant reminder of the challenges our truckies face and a celebration of the
years of hard graft that have gone into making Australia's transport scene what it is today (see page 84).
There are highlights from other great events around the nation too, including Wauchope, Kempsey, and Echuca.
The truck show calendar on page 70 provides some early insight into next year's events, and just days after this edition heads off to the printer we'll be heading to Yarra Glen for the annual HCVA show, then backing it up at the end of the month at Castlemaine Truck Show where we're a proud sponsor.
If you happen to be around at Castlemaine be sure to come up and say hello, I'd love to hear your feedback and pick your brains as to what you'd like to read more of in the year ahead.
As a thank you to our loal readers we have created a special Black Friday promotional deal offering 50 per cent off a 12 month subscription. To take up the offer, log on to dealsonwheels. com.au, click on Magazine in the menu bar, and use the code DOWBF25 when you go to check out. The offer expires on November 27.
I hope you enjoy this month’s edition and welcome all feedback at geoff.crockett@primecreative.com.au.
The 2025 Lights on the Hill convoy rolls into town. Image: Warren Aitken
Drive home safe
The NHVR and HERE Technologies tell Deals on Wheels how Rural Road Safety Month can save the lives of truckies and road users
It’s a stretch of highway that never ends.
The sun slowly dips below the gum trees, the headlights flicker on and another tired truckie settles into the long, lonely rhythm of Australia’s rural roads.
Out here, miles from the nearest town, a split second can change everything. It’s why the Australian Road Safety Foundation started the campaign, Rural Road Safety Month held every September, targeting rural and regional road safety to keep our country moving.
According to the NHVR, nearly 60 per cent of the 205 road fatalities that occurred in the last financial year occurred in rural or remote areas across Australia, and behind each life lost, is a family left waiting and a community changed forever.
Truck drivers know Aussie roads better than most. They know about the narrow bends that appear without warning, the kangaroos that dart out of nowhere and the fatigue that creeps in after hours of open road.
The NHVR says multiple factors pose as a great risk for truckies on long, isolated
stretches where rest stops are few and far between.
“When travelling through rural or remote roads in Australia, you’re more likely to encounter larger trucks which require longer distances to stop safely and have multiple blind spots, meaning the driver may not know you’re there,” an NHVR spokesperson says.
“Long stretches on rural and remote roads can heighten fatigue risks. Planning appropriate rest breaks and actively managing fatigue is critical to keeping drivers and communities safe.”
HERE Technologies senior director and head of business in Oceania Daniel Antonello acknowledges the unique challenges rural roads pose for truckies, including limited signage and poor lighting, reducing visibility and reaction time, especially at night.
“These roads often feature sharp curves, wildlife crossings, and unpredictable weather conditions – all of which increase risks for truck drivers,” he says.
“Long stretches without rest stops
Remote roads pose many dangers to drivers. Image: MartinCapek/ stock.adobe.com
also contribute to driver fatigue, a major factor in truck-related accidents. With truckers frequently driving in isolation, the consequences of an incident can be more severe.
It’s better to be safe, than sorry. Image: Amanda/ stock.adobe.com
“In some instances, roads are actually created for temporary use. For example, a logging company may clear their own road if they need to use it for transporting lumber. These roads present hazards, particularly when traveling downhill with a full truck load.”
Daniel says while driver vigilance remains vital, technology is becoming an equally powerful ally, with digital mapping reshaping safety for heavy vehicles on rural routes.
“Technology can act as a second set of eyes – more far-sighted, predictive and responsive than human perception alone,” he says.
“When a vehicle understands its route, it can pre-plan its path and assist the driver in navigating safely especially through unfamiliar routes. For example, prompting the driver to slow down in anticipation of a sharp, unexpected curve.
“Many rural roads were built decades ago and have poor surface conditions or are extremely narrow. Advanced location mapping and route optimisation can guide truckers toward safer, better-maintained routes.”
Daniel says that real-time hazard detection also is another critical tool to prevent
incidents, as it has the capability to fuse vehicle sensor data with traffic intelligence, alerting drivers to roadworks, wildlife or debris ahead.
“In rural areas where speed limits are not always clearly indicated, and even if they are, they can sometimes be missing, damaged or obscured by weather conditions or vegetation – having speed monitoring and location technology paired together ensures higher accuracy, where drivers will be alerted when they are travelling above the designated speed limit,” he says.
HERE Technologies has also been working with emergency responders to speed up rescue efforts in remote areas, where delayed medical help can mean life or death.
Daniel says that while building more stations or placing more first-responders in rural areas can be considered, HERE can also improve how emergency responders are routed to crash sites or incident areas.
Geo-coordinates are also being used in emergency response to guide emergency vehicles with metere-level accuracy, which can be particularly impactful in very remote or underdeveloped areas where traditional addresses may not exist or be reliable.
“HERE has added over 65,000 km of new off-road tracks across Oceania, with another 30,000km in progress, into our mapping platform,” Daniel says.
“We’re helping paramedics and first
responders navigate rugged terrain faster and more accurately. It’s part of our broader commitment to making rural mobility not just smarter, but safer.”
The NHVR echoes the same urgency, not just for drivers, but for everyone sharing the road.
Heavy vehicles are the backbone of Australia’s economy, hauling everything from groceries to machinery across the country. But their sheer size and weight means that even a small mistake can lead to devastating consequences.
An NHVR spokesperson says every road user has a vital role to play in keeping roads safe.
“The NHVR urges drivers to do their part by slowing down, staying alert, showing patience around heavy vehicles, and never taking unnecessary risks when it comes to safety,” they say.
“Many crashes are preventable, and the NHVR continues to work closely with the heavy vehicle industry to strengthen safety across the entire supply chain.
“The NHVR is sharing the message this Rural Road Safety Month that road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and every time a driver gets behind the wheel, they’re taking more than just their own life into their hands.”
To prevent incidents on rural roads, the NHVR runs numerous safety campaigns to provide education to drivers on how to safely drive around trucks; whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting with your learner or provisional license.
Some of these campaigns include, ‘We all Need Space’, ‘Don’t Muck with a Truck’ and ‘A Truckie Knows’.
Both organisations agree, while technology, training and education can make roads safer, it starts with respect for the road and those riding on it.
Rural Road Safety Month serves as a reminder that truckies aren’t just drivers, they’re fathers, mothers, partners and mates doing their jobs under tough conditions.
Because at the end of the day, no delivery, no deadline and no destination is worth a life lost on the road.
Safe driving is everyone's responsibility. Image: bennymarty/stock. adobe.com
Unit 1/71 Axis Place, Larapinta, Brisbane, QLD, 4110, Australia
Paul Biagini restored a 1994 T650, and it’s one of the very last mechanical pedals Kenworths ever manufactured
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Paul Biagini
This one was a barn find
This 1994 T650 truck is a rarity.
Not for its looks or trophy wins, (though it does steal glances) but because it’s one of the very last mechanical pedals Kenworth manufactured, ever.
Up until the early 90s, all trucks manufactured ran a mechanical linkage accelerator pedal to the engine, before the transition to computerised engines began,
meaning the accelerator pedal was only linked to the engine via wiring, and not an actual linkage.
There was a mix of electronic and mechanical pedals on the road, and this particular Kenworth was one of the very last built with the old pedal, making it quite rare.
The POZ717 truck was a barn find built for Fred Clarke in Cairns who was a long term Pozzolanic subcontractor.
Fred and his trusty T650 spent decades moving cement towing a pneumatic tanker through the tough roads of North Queensland.
Upon Fred retiring and after decades of service, she passed through the hands of a few collectors before finally finding her saviour in the Streamline Restorations workshop.
As owners of the Streamline Restorations workshop, Paul and Amanda Biagini gave the Kenny a second life.
Based in Mulgowie (Lockyer Valley), the Biagini’s have been owning, operating and rescuing legacy model Kenworths for 40
years, and this truck was going to be their next exciting project.
“By this time, the Kenworth had sat for some years and was showing signs of age, including some serious paint fade,” Paul says. “We rescued her.”
As a detailer by trade, Paul instantly spotted the potential in the 31-year-old Dulux paint applied at the Kenworth factory and decided to rescue it as opposed to repainting.
Instead of stripping the rare rig bare, Paul decided to respect its story.
“As opposed to a full restoration, which after careful consideration we decided was not required, we wanted to retain the OEM Dulux paint on the bonnet, cab and sleeper,” he says.
The truck was stripped of all its brightwork, grille, mirrors, exhausts and air cleaners to allow better access to the tired but complete paint.
“The OEM paint was then painstakingly restored with colour sanding and three stages of paint resurrection.
“We colour sanded to top and then resurrected to paint using Jax Auto Wax products with a stunning result. We then repainted the chassis in Dulux 2K.
“Once we were satisfied with the result, an old school pin-striper was engaged to reapply the broad lines and scrolls.
“Amanda and I decided to keep the 717 fleet number on the air cleaners as a mark of respect to the original owner, Fred.”
While the paint was revived, the trim was completely stripped out and detailed, and new sound and heat proofing fitted to the floor and topped off with a new floor mat.
The chassis was then stripped of tanks, guards, turntable and repainted by Paul in Pozzolanic Blue, Dulux 2K, while the tanks, bull bar, toolbox lids and all small alloy brackets were sanded and polished by Amanda.
“We spent many, many hours bringing these parts back to a new finish,” Paul says.
“The interior of the cab and sleeper was
The Kenworth was rescued and built new again
(Below left) Inside is just as nice. (Below right) The 717 fleet number was kept as a mark of respect to the original owner, Fred
The Kenny was given a second life
It’s ready to be put on the market!
completely removed, only leaving the dash remaining, and Amanda then hand detailed every piece of trim while I treated the floor with rust proof paint and applied heat and sound insulation.
“The dash was then detailed including removing all gauges and switches to ensure a perfect clean. The truck still sports the original cassette player, UHF and matching seat and sleeper mattress inserts.”
Once all surfaces were either renewed or refinished, Paul and Amanda carefully reassembled the Kenworth using all new fasteners, with many being polished stainless steel.
Under the hood, the heart of this beast still beats strong, with a Cummins N14 pushing 430 horsepower, complete with a 13-speed overdrive, 44,000lb rear end at 3.9 on AG100, sporting the original engine, transmission and diffs.
This truck is truly a snapshot of an era of trucking.
“These mid-90s Kenworths are beautifully built and a testament to the product of this era,” Paul says.
“She is in remarkable condition for her age and is a joy to drive.”
While POZ717 was another chapter read at Streamline Restorations, it contributes to their mission of keeping Australia’s trucking heritage alive.
If you’ve fallen for this big Kenworth, you’re in luck, as it’s now ready for its next journey in life and will be put up for sale in the near future.
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Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
Dream BUILD
When it comes to reliable trucks with plentiful spare parts and a long history of sales success in Australia, Isuzu certainly fits the bill.
This 2018 Isuzu FRR 110 is with the team at Universal Truck Wreckers in Shepparton and offers a 6-speed Allison automatic gearbox and about 150,000 kilometres on the speedo. It is rated with a GVM of 11,000kg and a GCM of 16,000kg, with a neat interior and the ISUZU 6HK1-TCC turbocharged engine.
For more information phone Universal Truck Wreckers on 03 9116 6707.
Put the future to work
Kenworth stands by its history of design of trucks that are easy to operate and maintain. The new generation Kenworths integrate the latest technology while upholding this philosophy, making our newest models smarter than ever. Put the future to work for your business.
If you’re in the market for a Pantech style truck with a “rental spec” van body, measuring 4.3m long, 2.3m wide and 2.15m high, then this deal is for you.
Prestige Truck Centre in Dandenong has a limited supply of 2025 Hino 300 Series trucks available now, ready to clear before 2026 arrives.
The trucks, which feature the comprehensive Hino safety suite, are being sold with five-year factory warranty and can be configured at the right weight for a car license, or a light truck license.
For more information phone Prestige Truck Centre on 03 9999 5162.
Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
HEAVY
Hauler
When Kenworth put together the T909 model they do so with heavy duty work in mind, think road trains, mining and long drives on regional Australian roads.
This 2017 version had a full engine re-build of the popular Cummins X15 about 100,000km ago and is fitted with the 18-speed Eaton Roadranger gearbox.
The tidy interior features the diamond trim upholstery in burgundy and black and the prime mover is fitted with airbag suspension too.
For more information phone EPJ Trading Co on 03 9988 9194.
There’d be no missing this 2013 Mack Metro-Liner on the road, in your driveway, or parked out the front of a worksite with your name proudly displayed on its side.
Built with construction work in mind the Metro-Liner offers a short bumper to back of cab design that is often paired with tipper or cement mixer accessories for business use.
This particular model is set up in 6x4 configuration with the Allison automatic transmission fitted, Cummins ISL engine and airbag suspension.
For more information phone WTP on 02 8999 6064.
Mobile: 0418 721 165 Office: (07) 32889495
PURGA TRUCK & MACHINERY
END OF YEAR SALE
KENWORTHK200
MUSTSELLNEWTRUCKCOMINGK200BigCab,E5Cummins,18SpeedRoadRangerGearBox, 46000lbsRockwellRearEndonKenworth8BagRearEndSuspension,Bulbar.MotorRebuilt18 monthsagoorunder500,000kmsago.GearBoxdone,NewClutchPressurePlate,Diffs are good. Servicedevery25000kmswithlonglifeoil.NewKingPinsandBushes.DriveTyres75%andFront SteerTyres70%.HascurrentQueenslandTransportInspectionjustbeenoverthepits.IcePack, 3000Winverter,TV,Microwave.57HMT. TA1290709.
Fitted with a 50-inch bunk this 2010 Kenworth T908 is showing 694,000km on download from its Cummins ISX engine.
Rated to 130T with six rod suspension the truck has a 4.56 diff ratio, X lock, Kohler bunk cooler and a 5790mm wheelbase.
It is being sold with a New South Wales roadworthy and the seller is happy to modify the prime mover set up to suit the buyer’s requirements, be it tipper, tray, chassis, beaver tail or tilt tray etc.
Fitted with a massive 110-inch cab this 2020 Freightliner Argosy is powered by the Detroit DD15 Engine producing 560hp.
A very tidy truck it has all the extras, including an alloy bull bar, driving lights, Alcoa Alloys, square tanks, extra LED lights on the roof and a stainless sun visor too.
Driver comfort is a priority with IcePak airconditioning and fridge fitted.
An 18-speed Eaton Fuller transmission is another popular feature.
For more information phone Complete Equipment Sales on 03 9998 4812.
Get ready to rumble straight from the dealership with this 2019 Scania G500 set up with a new Arrow Bisalloy steel tipping body with an electric tarp and two-way gate.
The low roof style truck is set up as a 6x4 configuration with air bag suspension and a trailer hitch in case the new owner is keen to pull a dog trailer too.
The truck has just 848,000km on the clock.
For more information phone Pitman Trucks Pty Ltd on 03 9998 4648.
With harvest season looking promising this year, Freightmore Transport is offering reliable Aussie-made grain tippers
The long-awaited harvest season has arrived and this year, it’s said to be one of the best Australia has had for years.
2025-plate or a discounted run-out 2024-plate, our grain tippers are ready to get to work and earn you some serious money,” he says.
You won’t want to miss out on these great deals
Freightmore Transport is geared up and good to go, with its ready-to-roll grain tippers designed for harsh, Aussie conditions and tight timelines. These tippers are designed to handle the punishment of harvest season, despite the full loads, dusty roads and long hours, Freightmore trailers can still look sharp while doing it.
When harvest season hits, there’s no room for delays or breakdowns, and Freightmore has built a strong reputation for creating reliable gear that gets the job done with ease.
Freightmore Transport director Jason Juwayed says this season is looking solid.
“After a couple of years of gearing up for bumper harvests that never quite materialised, it seems this season is finally the one we’ve all been waiting for,” he says.
“Reports are calling it one of the best harvests in years — and we’re ready for it.”
Jason says that not only do Freightmore pledge reliability, but variety is also promised.
“Whether you’re after a brand-new
“From B-Doubles and Road Trains to Stay Connect Stags and Super Dogs, available in steel or aluminium, we’ve got the right setup to match your haul.”
With locations in Lonsdale, South Australia, Bullsbrook in Western Australia and Newcastle in New South Wales, Freightmore Transport has plenty of exposure to the needs of transport operators across the country.
“Whether you're after a single trailer or an entire fleet, we are positioned to deliver fast from our facilities across the country with immediate delivery options,” he says.
And costs aren’t a worry, with Freightmore offering competitive finance rates and sizzling hot deals, there’s no better time to snatch up a tipper or two, to join in on the harvest season rush.
Call Freightmore Transport today on 1300 159 316 to secure your tipper before the harvest rush hits.
Images: Freightmore Transport
Freightmore Transport continues to deliver high quality products
If you’re looking for a grain tipper, don’t look past Freightmore Transport
There are a variety of reliable tippers to choose from
These tippers are designed for
Ready to go Australian Built premium quality discounted to clear:
• Airbag
• 2-Way Tail gate
• Road train ready
• 2m side walls
• 32ft long
• 50m3
• Alloy Wheels
• Electric Tarps
• Grain Chute
Make work life easier with Freightmore Transport’s tippers
Aussie roads
DEALS Feature
LITTLE
Yvette
Have you ever seen a truck so small? The 1917 mini-Mack named ‘Little Yvette’ is a sculpture tribute to the wartime Mack Bulldog
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Stefan Nechwatal
truck is
He’s no truckie or diesel mechanic.
In fact, Stefan Nechwatal is a sculptor and has never been super involved with trucks.
By looking at ‘Little Yvette’ – the 1917 mini Mack – that Stefan built, you would think trucking is the only thing he lives and breathes for.
But he’s a man with a passion for art.
“When I was a boy, I would go up to this dairy farm on the school holidays and help out, which involved driving trucks,” he says.
“When you’re young, on a farm and like cars and trucks, you can’t help but ask to drive one around. My whole mind was set on it, nothing else would matter. I just used to want to drive a farm truck around.
“Because I had learnt to drive from an early age, driving the truck came second nature to me. It was such fun on the farm, during harvest season the boy would often drive, while the men would load, and it was the best.”
When Stefan moved from Melbourne to Daylesford, he bought a truck to move loads of his things over, but this is as far as his history with trucks go.
Little Yvette is a 1:3.5 scale tribute to the legendary Mack AC Bulldog trucks that were sent from Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA to help the allies in France who were fighting on muddy battlefields, there and in Belgium in 1917.
What began as an idea for the prestigious Toorak Village Sculpture Exhibition in 2014, turned into a six-month obsession that tested every skill Stefan had built over decades.
The self-taught furniture maker had previously done training in steel and welding before becoming proficient in working with metal.
After developing these skills, he started to enter exhibitions for his sculptures, before being invited to the Toorak Exhibition along with other talented sculpture artists from all around Australia.
“I thought I would do something different, something with a motoring theme,” he says.
“I’m quite fond of vintage American pickup trucks, so I did a bit of Googling. Now at that time, I wasn’t interested in trucks at all really, I just loved pickup trucks. I thought a
The
a tribute to the Mack Bulldog used in WWI
The little Mack getting transported
A classic photo of the original Mack
hot rodded pickup truck was the ultimate weapon, but there was nothing I could work with artistically.”
That’s when Stefan started looking at some earlier trucks, and the more he researched, the more captivated he became.
“I became interested in some funny looking early trucks which led me to the Mack Bulldog. It was renowned for its funny looking blunt nose, and I became more fascinated,” he says.
“As an artist, I get immersed into what I’m creating, I often like to find a story or something personal about the object.
“And then I read about World War I, how America got involved and started sending over supplies, including thousands of units of the AC Mack model to France.
“The story I found was about Royal British engineers that were given a number of these trucks to help move around heavy artillery and supplies in very muddy battlefields. They found that these Mack trucks were incredibly invaluable for the tough work that was needed in these boggy fields, as they performed magic.”
Stefan says the officers loved them so much, they gave the trucks a nickname, ‘Bulldog’ inspired by the face of a British Bulldog and their pugnacious do or die, never give up attitude and strength.
While the Bulldog played a large role in
This kid is lucky to fit inside!
Here’s the scaling Stefan did, full of vertical and horizonal lines
It took Stefan 6 months to complete this sculpture
the WWI Allied effort, its last 20 years of production mattered even more.
The AC became the standard of the construction industry, building skyscrapers, subways and dams as well as logging, mining and heavy general hauling.
“These stories really overwhelmed me with the emotion, it was just so very fascinating,” he says.
“I spent months building this truck and it was very challenging because I've never done anything like that before, so it was a learning experience.
“I had to come up with a way of designing a smaller truck that would fit in my ordinary car box trailer but would also fit through a doorway when it got to the Toorak Village. It wasn’t easy.”
He started by scaling down a black and white image of the truck, carefully drawing vertical and horizontal lines through the truck to determine proportions.
Not only did it need to be scaled appropriately, but it also needed to be portable and have steering to be transported around.
Once he had an idea for size, it was time to gather resources and parts.
As it turns out, Stefan’s always been a recycler, collecting material, steel and timber, and this formed the backbone of the tiny truck.
“I bought an old Toro wheel horse lawn tractor, and when I pulled it apart, I found it had a really fantastic steering box in the front end, and it looked just like a Mack Bulldog,” he says.
“I put on some trestles, created the chassis and started working upwards to create structure, from the cabin to the back tray, which was initially a slide on steel and timber section, and then decided to build an optional slide-on salvage wrecker unit at the back since I became very interested in recovery work.
“The truck now has the ability to winch itself into the trailer using its salvage wrecker. I then built a timber stake side tray that goes on the back as an option.
“I like to create functional objects that look older, everything I make looks hundreds of years old.”
To make the wheels period correct, Stefan had to make them. As a metal collector, he had a steel hot water service cylinder.
“I cut it down into bands, and then I welded
Stefan and Little Yvette
it in the centre. I welded plough shears and then it had axles,” he says.
“I bought some very heavy duty rubber from an industrial supplier, and I cut it into strips, and then I riveted it onto the wheels, so that it's got hard rubber tires, giving it that authentic look.”
The sculpture was complete with a patented green and red paint to achieve the aged appearance.
By the time it was finished, Little Yvette measured 2,150 mm long, 1,200 mm high at the enclosed C-cabin roof, and 850 mm wide at the wheel track.
“She ended up quite heavy, weighing 600kg. She might be a little thing, but she’s heavy,” he says.
Stefan laughs about how kids always try to climb inside the truck at heritage shows, only to find the cabin so tiny, that only a toddler can fit inside.
“People always ask for reasons why my Mack doesn’t have a motor, and that’s because it’s so small, a typical driver would be a twoyear-old,” he says.
“The reality is, I built this truck for a sculpture exhibition, for people to enjoy and look at, not drive around. That would have
been a whole other project.
“I’ve never built anything like that before, building Little Yvette for six months, day after day, was making me go crazy and the deadline for Toorak was approaching.”
He submitted it as an unfinished project at the Toorak Exhibition and brought it back home to finish off completely. Now he takes it to plenty of heritage events.
Since her debut, Little Yvette has done her rounds on the heritage show circuit, including the Ballarat Heritage Festival, Castlemaine, the Australian Historic Motoring Festival, the Daylesford Agricultural Show and many, many more.
“What I love is watching people stop, stare and get absorbed,” he says.
“It doesn’t matter their age or gender, everyone’ fascinated by her. And I feel very pleased knowing that they enjoy my art.”
And Little Yvette’s story isn’t over just yet. Stefan is ready to let her go to a new owner who can carry her story forward and enjoy showing her off, just as much as he does.
If you’re interested in purchasing Little Yvette, please contact Stefan at 03 5348 6600, anytime.
Little Yvette was given that rustic, vintage look
DEALS Events
Wonders
OF WAUCHOPE
If you want to celebrate the machines of the past, present and future, the Wauchope Yesteryear Truck and Machinery show is the place to be
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Mary Tate
Introducing the oldest truck at the show, an AEC log truck built in 1950
Trucks keep the country turning, and they have for years.
So, what better way to celebrate Australia’s mechanical heritage in all its roaring, dustslinging glory, than with the Wauchope Yesteryear Truck and Machinery Show?
It was a weekend held on October 4 and 5, that reminded people of the machines, and the people behind them, that continuously dedicate their livelihood to the open road.
“Personally, I very much like seeing our past kept alive,” event secretary Mary Tate says.
“It’s an opportunity to see how tractors, trucks and engines have evolved from different periods of time and how differently they were used. I enjoy learning about those differences.
“Without these machines, our country would look a lot different.”
This year the weather was perfect. It was the kind of sunny weekend out that made truck’s chrome sparkle. But even under those blue skies, numbers were down a little with an estimated 600 community members attending over the two days.
“I think it’s a reflection that people are doing it tough out there,” Mary says.
“A lot of the machinery and restoration club shows in the area are finding it hard as well,
experiencing lower attendance numbers due to the economy.
“But the committee were happy with the attendance given the cost of living as well as the other events held in the area over the same weekend.”
Still, spirits and passions were high.
“Overall, I think this event brings the Wauchope community together. They always love to get involved with something local.”
The showgrounds were a museum come to life.
Meticulously restored Macks, tractors lined up like soldiers and engines that looked older than some of the adults watching them tick over.
“There were all makes and models of over 50 trucks, from the earliest kind to the latest,” Mary says.
“A beautifully restored Mack caught my attention. It was one I had never seen before at a show.”
But one of the most eye catching displays was a something a little different, working hard out in the dirt.
Out at the front of the grandstands, tons of rich brown soil had been hauled in just for the occasion.
“We had dozers working in eight tonnes of
dirt, as well as scrapers and assorted farm machinery to show off their tool set and what they used to do back in their hay day,” Mary says.
Crowds watched in awe as old beasts came back to life, belching smoke like it was 1955 again.
“There were the slowest Land Cruiser, truck and tractor races held. The oldest truck at the show was a 1950 AEC timber log truck that is owned by Expressway Spares, that was quite impressive.
“This is what our community really enjoys, it’s what makes us different.
And this is what the show was made for. For people to gather and share what they love. To do up their machines and indulge in the joy of showing it off.
Whether it’s a vehicle in its working clothes, or a project that’s been pulled apart, pieced back together and repainted, Wauchope wants to see it and promises to keep its story alive.
I think this event brings the
Best Heritage Truck of the Show
The blue ACCO 3070A that won Best Heritage Truck of the Show
This rig was awarded Best Working Truck of the Show
Blue ACCO 3070A owned by Steve Aylward Best Working Truck of the Show Kenworth K104 owned by Hillard's Refrigerated Transport
Yard, Workshop & Fabricating division located at Trentham, Victoria (Closed Saturdays). Please contact one of the above for an appointment.
Hauler
Inspired by the Hot Wheels design, Michael Jeffries restores a 1993 K100E into a fiery workhorse
When you first lay eyes on Michael Jeffries’ 1993 K100E Kenworth, you’d swear it just rolled out of a Hot Wheels pack.
With bright flames licking down its black sides, it’s a truck that demands attention – but it wasn’t always this much of a head turner.
The K100
“I found it for sale on Trade Me,” Michael says. “It was just a cab and chassis. It was painted blue, and it looked pretty rough – like one of those Terminator trucks.”
For some, it would have been too big of a job, but for Michael, it was a challenge he couldn’t resist. The K100 had history. Born green under Balle Brothers in Auckland, it then found its way down south to Doolans Transport where it turned blue.
And now, under Jeffries’ watch, it’s taken on a third life, representing his business, The Big Smoke Barbecue, with the K100 serving as the face of the brand.
Michael was a former truck driver before he started up his own mobile barbeque business, and the K100 is the only truck the business owns.
“Back in the day, I used to drive around a K100, and I had been looking for one for a while. This Kenworth came out of nowhere and I snapped it up. Now I only use the truck to head to the supermarket,” Michael jokes.
“It hauls around all the barbeques, but I admit that I use it as more of a show truck for the business.”
But again, this truck didn’t roll into Michael’s hands looking this good. Work needed to be done.
A fiery head turner
when it was working for Doolans Transport
Images: Michael Jeffries BBQ
The rig under Balle Brothers
It was brought into the shop for a makeover
The final result
There was a bit of work to do
It was in a pretty rough condition
He got the chassis sandblasted and repainted the whole truck before adding a freshly built deck on it.
The truck was built in 1993
“The interior was pretty mint, I didn’t have to do much there, apart from putting all the gold badges and accessories on inside the cab,” he says.
“I really wanted a Hot Wheels reflective design with heaps of flames.
“I wanted it loud, cool and fun, that’s what I was going for.”
And it’s the perfect pairing.
American styled barbeques meet an American styled barbeque truck, and it’s not
AUSTRALIAN MADE
only hauling Michael’s products, but plenty of attention also.
But he’s not done yet. Plans are already in motion to fit 10-inch exhaust stacks, a new spoiler and eventually, turn the barbie hauler into a part-time motorhome.
And that’s the beauty of a truck. One minute
it’s a workhorse running from A to B under time restraints, the next it’s a restored ad on wheels, and then it’s surprisingly turned into a place you call home.
But whatever’s next for Michael, the road ahead looks just as exciting as the one behind it.
With a whole life dedicated to trucking, David Beer is currently restoring an old 1962 S model Kenworth, and it’s been quite the challenge
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Jeffrey Beer
David has been restoring this Kenworth back to its original form Where it started…
As a 76-year-old bloke with one good shoulder and more determination than most men half his age, David Beer still gets his hands dirty under the hood of a truck.
“My right shoulder is a replacement, they left a clamp in there, so I don’t have full use of it,” he says.
“I’ve worked all my life, even now, I work six days a week. Due to my age, I employed three guys who work on machinery, and I work on old trucks.
“At 76 I’m still having a crack, so I’m pretty pleased with myself.”
His current daily project is a vintage 1962 S model Kenworth, discovered through an online auction in Geelong.
When David first laid his eyes on the tired old Kenny, it was barely hanging on, with its rusted lines, weary paint and a cab that had seen better days, it had previously worked as an interstate truck and was in no state to be back on the road anytime soon.
“It was at the end of its life. For instance, a lot of the fuel lines and airlines were steel encased, they would just break in half, they were that rusted out,” he says.
“The cab was in terrible shape, and the motor sounded okay. The auctioneer described the truck as one thing, but it was totally different when we bought it.”
David says this S model is quite special, as it was one of the first to land on Australian soil, and as the third ever Kenworth brought into the country, he believed it deserved nothing less than a full original restoration.
David stripped the truck back completely.
This resto has taken about eight or nine months so far
The engine came out for a work over and tidy up
David says this S model was one of the first to land on Australian soil
The Kenny had previously worked as an interstate truck
Now with the cab off, motor out and gearbox diffs out, it was once again a bare chassis.
“The suspension has been changed, and it now has a shroud over the exhaust, not to modernise it, but for safety,” he says.
“The tubeless tires are now back to 10 double O, and I’ve painted it similarly to its original colour when it worked at Cameron Transport’s back in the day.
“The shade is a bit different, but the paint scheme is exactly the same. I put on some modern lights, some wall chrome and bling.
“We've worked our way through all the truck’s issues and problems. At my age, this is the best I can do, but it’s going to be in the format of how it actually came to Australia in 1962.”
David has done nearly all of the work himself with some sections receiving a bit of help here and there.
“It’s taken about eight or nine months of restoration so far,” he says. “I did a majority of the welding, all the spray painting, preparation and oxy. But I’m on the downhill run now.”
“I’ve still got to do the radiator, the bonnet, and some electrical work. But I’ve pretty much done all the air hoses as they were in such bad shape, every single one had to be replaced, so it’s been quite the job for sure.
“The most challenging part about a restoration like this one I would say is trying to remember where everything goes and placing it back in its right format.”
David’s connection to trucks and machinery goes back quite some time. As a
teenager growing up in Airport West, he used to watch Glover’s Transport’s trucks rumble past and was in absolute awe of it.
“My father was a carrier, and had Austin's, Bedfords, trucks like that. To see a fully imported American Kenworth when you're 15 or 16 was quite awe inspiring,” he says.
“Then in my late 20s and 30s, we had our own transport business. It was 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and that was before starting the machinery business about 20 years ago.
“If you like trucks, hard work comes with it, and that’s not an issue for me.”
Decades later, and he’s surrounded by them. His private museum in Maryborough houses around a dozen Kenworths.
And what keeps David going is the positive community around him.
“It’s a wonderful feeling for everyone to be so complimentary of my trucks. The people on Facebook have been sending lovely comments without the usual nastiness social media tends to have,” he says.
“I’d say it’s one of the positives about what I’m doing. For people my age or older doing up these vehicles, to get a positive response from other is only going to encourage you to keep going. Negativity is a disease.”
Once a wide-eyed teenager watching the same rig roar down the streets, to a man with many in his backyard and restoring vintage masterpieces, David sure has come a long way in his transport journey, with many more years to come.
This truck isn’t finished just yet
David’s always been a hard worker, he enjoys what he does
SuperSUCKER
Ever wondered how the grounds are tidied for work in dirty construction sites?
“You think your job sucks?” This attention attracting motto is emblazoned on the side of the cabin of Mackay-based business Groundvac’s new Isuzu FVZ truck.
Groundvac offers a highly specialised service using high-pressure water to break up and liquefy soil, which is then immediately removed by a powerful vacuum.
This allows for non-destructive digging around underground utilities, sensitive sites, congested areas, or locations with limited access.
The operation requires a solid platform to carry and transport the truck-mounted Vermeer hydro vacuum excavators, enabling their deployment across a wide range of sites and scenarios.
With clients including Mackay Regional
Council, Harrup Park, Ergon, Ventia, Hay Point and Daly Bay Coal Terminals, plus various mine sites, civil contractors, builders, plumbers and electricians, Groundvac has plenty of variety to keep the team busy.
Growing pains
Along with his wife Kerri, Russell Fry acquired the business five years ago, growing the operation from three trucks to a fleet of seven – six of which now bear the Isuzu badge.
Across wide and varied sites, Groundvac needed a truck with a high load capacity on a relatively short wheelbase, while ensuring safety and comfort for the driver.
The solution was the all-new Isuzu FVZ 260300 6x4 from the MY25 F Series range.
Boasting a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of 26,000 kg, Groundvac’s new FVZ 260-300 has a wheelbase of 5,485 mm, a perfect platform to mount its 8,000-litre hydro excavation spoil system on a flatbed body.
“Keeping this all mounted on a reliable truck means we can be in and out easily. We not only needed a vehicle that can carry the equipment, but it had to be highly manoeuvrable on all types of sites,” Fry says.
Power and poise
The MY25 Isuzu FVZ features the all-new 6.7 litre, water-cooled DB6A engine from Isuzu, offering 221 kW (296 hp or 300 PS) of power @ 2,200 rpm and torque of 984 Nm@ 1,000 - 2,100 rpm. This DB6A engine series meets Euro-VI emissions without the need for an
Images: Isuzu Australia
The Isuzu provides the perfect platform for this business
Russell Fry is happy with the newest addition to their vacuum truck fleet
Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system and features improved retardation when required from an engine compression brake.
Offering improved performance and better fuel economy, the MY25 Isuzu FVZ is fitted exclusively with the MD3500 six-speed Allison automatic transmission with GEN-6 software controls.
The Allison 3500 series is specifically designed for medium-duty commercial trucking, offering advanced features like a push button controller with oil level checks and mode selection to enhanced fuel economy, increased performance, and reduced downtime. This reduces brake wear and enhances safe vehicle control.
"Isuzu has always been up to task for our needs, but this new truck really steps things up in terms of performance, vehicle dynamics, safety and comfort,” Fry says.
“Our trucks work hard and manoeuvrability in the new model is a definite improvement. It's no good having all the kit without having the ability to get to the job and then accessing the site.
“Then there is the performance and economy from the engine, which is a major plus in what are hot conditions pretty much all year-round.”
Safe and sound
Another non-negotiable for Fry is safety. The next generation FVZ 260-300 features a bolstered range of passive and active systems thanks to Isuzu’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) camera technology, designed to assist the driver’s judgement to avoid or reduce the possibility of an accident.
Advanced functions include, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Attention Assist Warning (AAW), Traffic Movement Warning (TMW), Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) with Intelligent Speed Limiter (ISL) and Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB).
Rare in the FVZ’s segment, standard Lane Keep Assist (LKA) is an extension of the
LDW system, using an electric motor and solenoid on the steering column to assist the driver. This same electric motor provides a dynamic steering function which reduces driver steering effort at low speeds, while maintaining stability and control at higher speeds.
Features controlled by the camera and millimetre radar include: Distance Warning System (DWS), Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB), and Full-Speed Adaptive Cruise Control (F-ACC).
Car-like comfort
Inside the cabin the Groundvac crew enjoy comfortable yet hardwearing materials and a smart and convenient layout.
“The biggest feedback I get from the crew is that it is built for the driver,” Fry says.
“It is closer to a car than ever before with all the creature comforts, including the cooled seat; which is a major plus when you have a driver in and out of the cab in the local climate.”
Climate control
Another addition to the Isuzu range in an updated glass specification, again with driver comfort, safety and wellbeing firmly in mind.
A huge 99 per cent reduction in ultraviolet (UV) and a 59 per cent reduction in infrared (IR) cut-through has been achieved, helping to dramatically enhance visibility, prevent sunburn and retina damage and markedly improve cabin insulation.
“You might say the truck is built for the Capricornia region, but I can see the benefits for operators across the country,” he says.
“The exterior looks great too, which is really important in showcasing our business. Plenty of clients notice that you have the latest set of wheels.”
“As an employer, I’m confident in having my crew getting around in the right truck for the work we do, plus the safest and most comfortable for them to drive.
The unique system turns dirt into a fluid ready to be vacuumed up and taken away
The Shamick’s Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show 2025 will roll into its regional home from November 29-30
Nothing like a shiny big truck to excite young and old! Image: Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show
Shane Wharton from Shamick Transport is looking forward to presenting the trophies for Truck of the Show and Best on Ground (Saturday). Image: Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show
Castlemaine Rotary's Truck Show is about to celebrate its 37th year and with the support of naming sponsors Shamick Transport, this year’s show is sure to be a cracker.
This is no second-rate regional copy of a 'big' show — Cornwill Transport’s Truck of the Show from last year’s event went on to take out the Champion of Champions award at the Brisbane Truck Show Silverback Show and Shine.
Kicking off the festivities this year will be the inaugural Golden Wheel Awards Dinner on the Friday evening to celebrate past and present legends of the transport industry
who supported the establishment of the show nearly four decades ago. Tickets are available for purchase on the website.
In another first for the Show, CMV Truck & Bus are bringing an Electric Volvo FM prime mover along to allow people the chance to get a glimpse of the future up close. In big news the Volvo will be available for test drives - see our website for details.
Live music will feature across the weekend, this year featuring Coodabeen Champion Greg Champion OAM and awardwinning country singer-songwriter Sandee Facy and her band. There's a great range of food and light refreshments, along with a licenced bar and free entertainment for kids.
At 7.15am on Sunday morning the free Truckie's Breakfast will fuel up the participants for the 9am convoy through Castlemaine which is a highlight for locals lining the route.
There are 21 trophies to be awarded thanks to our generous sponsors. Highly Commended will also be awarded for the Working Truck categories.
Here is everything you need to know.
For more information and to sign up for Truck Show updates, go to www.castlemainetruckshow.com
CASTLEMAINE
ROTARY 2025
Truck Entries:
Saturday 29 — Sunday 30 November, 2025
$50 weekend $30 single day (admits driver and one passenger).
1. Enter online: castlemainetruckshow.com; OR
2. Download and pre fill your entry form; OR
3. Enter at the gate
Entries close for judging at 12 noon on Saturday and 10.00am Sunday.
21 trophies to be awarded!
Truck of the Show
$1,000 sponsored by Shamick Transport Best on Ground (Saturday)
$500 sponsored by Shamick Transport
People’s Choice sponsored by Castlemaine Toyota
Award categories: Sponsored by:
TRUCK OF SHOW $1,000
Shamick Transport
BEST ON GROUND [Sat] $500 ...................................................................... Shamick Transport
WORKING RIG (2024-2025) .......................................................................... R&R McClure Excavations
WORKING RIG (2018-2023)........................................................................... CMV Truck & Bus Derrimut
WORKING RIG (2012-2017) ............................................................................ Parsons Towing
WORKING RIG (pre 2012)................................................................................ ASQ Group Pty Ltd
TOW RECOVERY .................................................................................................... Mount Alexander Shire
TRAY | TILT TRAY | VAN Bendigo Isuzu Trucks
TIPPER Membrey's Transport & Crane Hire
RESTORATION (1995-2011) Deals on Wheels
HISTORIC TRUCK (pre-1995)....................................................................... Rod Hay
SHOW | CUSTOM (non-working) ............................................................... All American Custom Chrome
FLEET (3 or more).................................................................................................. Melbourne North Truck Centre
BEST INTERIOR ...................................................................................................... Scania Australia
BEST PAINT (Traditional) ............................................................................. Bellevue Panels
BEST PAINT (Art Work | Airbrush) ......................................................... Sullivan Sketching
Electric Truck
SCHEDULE:
Friday 28 November
6pm Golden Wheel Dinner Awards sponsored by Melbourne North Truck Centre
Saturday 29 November
7am Registration opens
Noon Show opens to the public Registration closes (for judging)
4.30pm Best on Ground: $500 Presentation – sponsored by Shamick Transport
5–8pm Live entertainment, food trucks and licenced bar
Free entertainment
Kids rides and facepainting – sponsored by Shamick Transport
Tours of the Grounds by Trishaw for our mobility-challenged guests courtesy of the Mount Alexander Shire.
Sunday 30 November
7.15am Truckie’s Breakfast sponsored by All American Custom Chrome Registration opens
8.30am Convoy muster
9am Convoy
10am Show opens to the public Truck registration closes
3.00pm Trophy Presentations
Truck of Show $1,000 Presentation — sponsored by Shamick Transport.
4.00pm Show concludes.
Live music on stage all weekend featuring Coodabeen Champion Greg Champion OAM supported by multi-award winning Country singer-songwriter Sandee Facy and her Band, sponsored by R&R McClure Excavations
Sponsors on ground Trade exhibitors on ground
Shamick Transport
R&R McClure Excavations
All American Custom Chrome
Melbourne North Truck Centre
Deals on Wheels
Mount Alexander Shire
ASQ Group Pty Ltd
Bellevue Panels
Bendigo Isuzu Trucks
CMV Truck & Bus Derrimut
Membrey's Transport & Crane Hire
Parsons Towing
Scania Australia
Sullivan Sketching
Aussie Footy Shorts
Callipari Wine & Ned Kelly Red
Castlemaine Toyota
Custom Classics Retro Man Caves
DA Campbell Transport
Deja Lube Services Pty Ltd
Dieci Australia
Drake Collectibles
Frontline Socks
FTW CO PTY LTD
Georgia Design
Homestar Promotions
JBE Truck Repairs
JLB Transport
Little Helpers Kidswear
Natrad
Pearlcraft Steering Wheels
Riely's Little Lolly Shop
Royans Transport Accident Repairs
Strap Launcher
TR Group AU
Truck Tyres Australia
Truckin Republic
Viowam Industries
Windmill Country Pty Ltd.
Zephyr Pro Australia
Trucking
IN ECHUCA
If you’re looking for a good reason to drag your truck out of the shed, the American Iron Echuca Truck Display gives you a great excuse
Images: Robbie Rose
There are no judges at this show, every truck is a winner!
All kinds of rigs made an entrance
If you’ve had a packet of cornflakes this morning for brekkie, most would not consider the fact that a truck was involved somewhere in that process.
“We’ve always carried the nation,” Tony Murphy laughs. “I reckon if we had a truck driver running Australia, we’d be better off.”
Victoria’s regional town of Echuca has a high trucking population, and with that, comes the passion for a classic rig, hence the introduction of the American Iron Echuca Truck Display 15 years ago.
“Some will say this is a truck show, but I call it a display, simply because at shows, people want to know the best truck in this age range, the exhaust and all this extra information,” he says.
“The trucks here aren’t the same. You don’t have to worry about how thick your cheque book is or spend five hours polishing your rig, it doesn’t worry us. We just want your truck to be there.”
This display is the perfect time for truck enthusiasts to find an excuse to drag their vehicle out of the shed and have a yap with some mates.
“The trucks aren’t judged. The people that bring their trucks are there for a good weekend. They're not there to try and get the premiership prize,” he says.
As the president of the club that ran this event, Tony shares in that same passion of mighty machines.
“My wife wanted me to work in the garden, but my whole weekend was trucks, trucks, trucks,” he says.
“But it’s okay, at the end of the day, you get a pat on the back because the people enjoyed the event we hosted. That’s where the smiles were coming from on the weekend, and that’s what makes it worth it.
“When you run an event like this and it actually works, it gets better every year.”
And it has.
This year, 250 trucks, trailers and vehicles rumbled into Echuca and the main theme of the day was ‘Internationals’.
Photography
Check out these head turners
This show began about 15 years ago
This Mack is dark and dangerous!
DEALS Events
This classic International got the job done
An early Foden truck in true Aussie colours
There was beauty after beauty at this display
All different models lined up side-by-side, from workhorses, show ponies, the lot.
Even Tony’s 1984 International made an appearance.
“There’s been many different themes over the years,” he says. “There were Freightliners, Macks, and now Internationals, but all American themed.”
“Next year’s theme is already decided. It will be innocent, old and rusty.”
And you really can’t go wrong with a vintage rig.
“There were some trucks that had been dragged out of the shed that I’ve never even
seen before. That’s another thing this display is good for.”
From a local’s point of view however, there aren’t many events in Echuca that keep the town excited and wanting more.
“We’ve got to give something to the locals,” Tony says.
And that they did.
Starting from a truck loving group many years ago, this show has become a community staple and has grown into something that’s about more than trucks; it’s about mateship and pride in an industry that keeps Australia moving.
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CALENDAR Events
NOVEMBER
Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show
November 29-30, 2025. Castlemaine, VIC.
The trucks rolling in.
Image: Trav’s Truck Photography
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
DECEMBER
HVIA Awards Gala Dinner
December 4, 2025. Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, QLD
At the Plaza Ballroom, HVIA will celebrate the industry with 10th Anniversary National Awards Gala Dinner. The awards program will feature an expanded suite of categories celebrating excellence, leadership and innovation across
all sectors of the industry, including suppliers, operators and employees.
First
Annual Christmas Truck Show
December 6, 2025. Cypress St, Pittsworth
Bring your truck, light it up, and show it off! There will be awards, live entertainment, food, and fun for the whole family.
Spots are limited – book your truck in now to secure your place!
Let’s make this Christmas unforgettable – with trucks, lights, and festive cheer!
JANUARY 2026
Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show
January 17
Rutter Park Reserve, Tooradin, VIC
An annual event since 1998, the Tooradin Tractor Pull and Truck Show returns. Gates open at 10am, with the main event taking place at 3pm.
This non-profit event is run by a committee of locals, with all proceeds going back into local clubs, schools and various charities. As well as the vintage tractor pull and truck display, there will be amusements, catering and more.
Twin City’s Show N Shine Convoy for Kids
January 18
Albury Showgrounds, NSW
The Convoy starts at the Barnawartha BP and finishes at the Albury Showgrounds. Almost 300 trucks took part in the convoy at the last event, travelling the Hume in support of Country Hope, which raises money for kids with cancer and other life threatening illnesses.
Following the Convoy, there will be a Show N Shine where trucks, cars and bikes go head to
head across a range of categories. Organisers are hoping to make the convoy even bigger and better in 2026 by getting more trucks involved, with a goal of raising $100,000 for Country Hope.
FEBRUARY 2026
Darnum Heritage Display
February 6, 2025
Darnum, VIC
Some ‘bombshell’ news… A Change of venue! The ‘Heritage Vehicle and Machinery Display’ is now the ‘Darnum Heritage Display’. The committee decided has moved the event to the Darnum Historical Complex grounds in Darnum. This will be on the same first weekend in February – 7th & 8th 2026. This venue is less
This classy Mercedes caught plenty of attention. Image: Calissa Keough
DEALS Events
There's nothing better than a line up of trucking beauties. Images: Steve Haskell
than 1 km from the Princes Freeway in Darnum. The change of Venue has meant a change of name to reflect this, so it will now be called – ‘The Darnum Heritage Display’. This event will be bigger, better, and easier to move around than previously.
NRFA Annual Conference
February 21 Wollongong, NSW
The NRFA Annual Conference will feature a program that’s jam-packed with industry
updates from a variety of key speakers. Connect with industry experts, learn about the latest transport trends, and gain valuable knowledge to advance your career.
If you have an event you would like listed in our trucking events calendar, please email tiane. gavillucci@primecreative.com.au with all of the relevant details.
As a bumper winter crop comes to harvest Gorski Engineering is ready to help to get
the grain to market
If moving grain is part of your operation, now is the time to update the fleet and make the most of a bumper year in Australia.
Responding to the freight task Gorski Engineering’s designers have been hard at it creating this Gorski Premium Aluminium
The Gorski Engineering 3-axle aluminium grain trailer is perfect for harvest season with a raft of quality extras including the Razor electric tarp and landing legs
3 Axle Grain Semi Lead Trailer to meet demand.
In terms of specifications, the aluminium trailer has:
• A 10.3m (34ft) long x 1.9m (6.3ft) high body
• 5mm sides x 6mm floor
• 6,500kgs overall tare weight
• TMC Australia drum brake axles
• Razor International Rollover Electric Tarp and Landing Legs
• Hubdometer on the rear axle group
• Plastic mudguards
• Narva Australia rear worklight
• Connections to the rear, with a JOST World
The grain trailer is just one of many styles of equipment Gorski Engineering has in its
product list which also features Hardox steel tippers for all manner of construction and tough haulage tasks in dog trailer, semi-trailer and truck body format.
With more than 50 years’ experience in the tipping game and production and service centres in both Victoria and Queensland, Gorski Engineering promises quick and effective sales and service access for its customers.
To visit in person, drop by 195 Hume Highway, Somerton, Victoria, or 10/6 Quinns Hill Road, Stapylton, Qld.
For an online quote, visit www.quotientapp.com/e/ and follow the prompts.
Alternatively, call 03 9308 5433 to find out more or browse the products available on www.gorski.com.au
Images: Gorski Engineering
HEART OF
Kempsey
If you live in the small NSW town of Kempsey, everyone knows a truckie, so why not have a day to celebrate those in transport?
Images: Bernie Keast
Check out that long line of trucks
Troy Donelly describes the Kempsey Truck Show as a “connection to an industry that’s not on many people’s mind”.
If you’re not working in transport, he says you probably wouldn’t think twice about trucks, yet the whole country tends to rely on them.
This show dedicates a time to celebrate hardworking rigs, as well as the drivers behind the wheel that keep Australia moving.
Troy says kids love watching the shiny rigs roar down the street, but for the truck dads, this show wakes up that little kid inside of them.
“I think it's a way to link the people that don't have any industry tie to transport,” he says.
“But in the town that we live in – Kempsey, I mean, if you don't have a truck driver in your family, then one of your friends do.”
The North Coast Trucking Social Club organised this event, and Troy is the club president. So, for him, the day was overwhelming, and rightfully so. Some
people thought he was crazy for running it, but he “enjoyed the hell out of it” anyway.
The club itself has been around for nearly half a century, starting out as a way for drivers to connect in the days before mobiles were as popular as they are today.
Over time the casual hangouts became something bigger – a truck show, and one that keeps charity at its core.
Once the bills are paid, every dollar made goes back into the community, whether its soccer clubs, maternity wards or the SES.
This year saw 142 rigs pull up, some rolling in from as far as Sydney and the Gold Coast.
“What did stand out to me was the fact that some people came from such a far distance which I think is pretty big for Kempsey,” Troy says.
“Since Covid, the show’s been held every two years, purely because it’s hard to get enough members in the club. It takes quite a bit to make this show happen.
“But there has been an overwhelming amount of support for it to come back yearly,
This Kenworth tipper came up a treat
Robinson Heavy Haulage brought out the big Mack
The Robinson Heavy Haulage Legend 950
North Coast Heavy Towing's Peterbilt is a beast
Check out this monster Mack V8 500
Polished to perfection
DEALS Events
There was quite a turnout
Awards
Best Kenworth: Trevor Baker from BT Civil
Best Western Star: Chris Westerman from Westerman Haulage
Best Mack: Chris Robinson from Robinson Transport
Best International: Jamie Oram
Best Scania: Brayden Thompson from RLI Transport
Best 0-1 Years: Lachlan Hintz from O'Neils Haulage
Best 1-5 Years: Bryce Lambley from Tytan Transport
Best 5-10 Years: Beau Schubert from AIC Haulage
Best 10-20 Years: Brad Murphy from BJM Truck & Trailer Repair
Best Freightliner: Jim Merrick from Bakewell Haulage
Best Mercedes: Dean Warwick from Deans Express
Best DAF: Terry Fitzgerald from Bakewell Haulage
Best Peterbilt: Kurt McHugh from North Coast Heavy Towing
Best Historic: Glen Oram Tow Mator Towing
Best Rigid: Cooper Walmsley from Pick of the Crop
Best Interstate Truck: Damien Fallon from Toft Tricking
Best Tipper: Peter Thompson from Thompson Haulage
Best Emergency Vehicle: Fredo RFS
Best Recovery Vehicle: Jake Baker from BT Civil
Speciality Vehicle: Jesse O'Mullane
Owner Driver: Brad Keast from Keast Transport
Employee of the year: Graham Dyson from Lukes local Freight
Driver of the year: Scott Hardy from Freds Transport
Sponsors Choice: Athony Green from AIC Haulage
People’s Choice: Luke Curtis from Lawrence Transport
Runner up Best Fleet: AIC
Winner Best Fleet: Robinson Haulage
Runner up Truck of the Show: Bryce Lambley from Tytan Transport
Truck of the Show: Trevor Baker from BT Civil
Club Person of the year: Kate Scott
Fundraiser of the year: Lauren Donnelly
Many awards were handed out to the shows best
Truck of the Show winner Trevor Baker
‘What’s up doc?’ says this Ford
O'Neil's Haulage rolled in
Haywood's Kenworth K220 was hard to miss with its silver and blue colour scheme
TBJ Keast's T610 SAR
This stunning T909 had lights to spare
that’s something the club is yet to decide on, however, if I had it my way, it would be held every year.”
The Kempsey Truck Show is about working rigs rather than shiny show trucks. The ones that can work every day of the week and can still show up on time ready to go for the show.
Besides the trucks however, it is a family day, where kids get to enjoy fun activities for free, like face painting, bouncing on the jumping castle and the bucking bull.
A truck parade got the people of Kempsey excited, with the number of people watching on from the street growing year by year, Troy says he saw kids running from one side of the park to the other to get a better view of the trucks cruising by.
“It was an overwhelming response we received from the crowd, including the sponsors and locals,” he says.
“I’m not the biggest fan of social media so my wife runs it all for the show, and we saw that a lady said this year was the best show Kempsey has had, ever.
“That put a bit of a spring in my step that’s for sure.”
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Traditionally held at the showground, this year’s wet weather threatened to de-rail things.
Then in true small-town spirit, a local company stepped in and offered up their massive yard in Kempsey. They told the club to use it however they needed, no questions asked, and for Troy, that kind of backing meant everything.
“I remember going to the Kempsey Truck Show as a kid with my family. Now my kids get to come with me,” he says.
“If I can do a small part to get this show close to what it used to be, I think I’ve done my job.”
Kempsey creates a bridge between its community and the world of transport. Trucks keep the country running, and yet sometimes it takes an event like this to remind people of their importance and for Troy, that couldn’t make him prouder.
This show connects the community to the world of transport
For more info please visit us at www.sammut.com.au
DEALS Events
Highway
HEROES
Lights on the Hill dedicates an annual weekend to honour and remember the truck drivers who lost their lives to the road
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Warren Aitken
The Gatton based Nolan's Transport are massive supporters of the Lights on the Hill Memorial and once again had a huge presence at this year's event
Truck driving is not a job without risks, and the names adorning the wall at the Lights on the Hill Trucking Memorial are a testament to that.
Keeping Australia running isn’t an easy job, and for this, in life and death, truckies deserve recognition, and the Lights on the Hill memorial and convoy provides just that.
For event secretary Juanita Johnson, the convoy means more to her that just an annual event. It’s personal.
Since tragically losing the lives of her husband and son to a truck accident, she helps steer one of Australia’s most heartfelt tributes, the Lights on the Hill event.
“Being a part of this event helps my grief journey, knowing that what I’ve gone through can help somebody else is why I do it,” she says.
“This event means a lot to me, it’s quite cathartic because I get to give back. I do what I do because I want to make somebody else’s grieving process a bit easier, if I can.”
Families gathered, names were read, and doves were released into the open sky this year at the memorial as one of the event volunteers was added to the wall.
“He passed away two years ago on convoy day,” Juanita says. “It was an emotional day for us.”
“Seeing everybody come together and pay their respects meant a lot.”
For Juanita these moments are what make
the years’ worth of planning, worth every bit of effort.
“It takes a whole year to get this event together,” she says.
“All of that stress and hard work pay off when you see the trucks rolling in and the crowd on the sides of the road. That’s what makes Lights on the Hill so special.”
Held on October 4 and 5, 668 trucks joined the convoy, with Susan Radke in a Kenworth T909 from D’arcy Transport and Lachlan Stephenson from Kings Haulage Group in the Kenworth T610 SAR, leading the way.
“There were a lot of trucks who couldn’t make it because they were away for work,”
Juanita says.
“But the foot traffic was even higher this year, and the trucks were just immaculate, you couldn’t pick only one favourite.”
Heads were turned with Kenny’s and Mack’s, but Juanita says every truck carried a sense of pride.
“You can see how much effort everybody puts in,” she says. “People are up at five o’clock in the morning polishing their rigs, so they’ll shine. And then they’ll get out of their truck and polish it again. They’re all proud which is nice to see.”
This convoy has also become a lifeline for families who have lost their connection to the transport industry.
“When you lose someone who worked in transport, that connection to the industry can
Trophy winners
Best Vintage: Kelly's Transport
Best Large Fleet: S J McMahon Transport
Best Small Fleet: Limestone Ridges Haulage
Best Custom Graphics/Paint: MFT Haulage
Best Driver Trainer: ProDrive Ipswich
Best Heavy Recovery: Corbett's
Best Light Recovery: Clayton's
List of names added to the wall
Peter James ANDREWS “Tiny” or “HG”
Donald BRETT “Don”
Danny CARR
Christopher CARSAS “Chris”
Raymond ‘Ray’ Douglas CARSBURG “Darkie”
Shaun Patrick CRONIN “Chucky”
David John CROSS “Crossy”
Evan Campbell DARBY
Michael DARLINGTON “Mick”
Paul DARLINGTON “Darlo”
Clyde Joseph DAVIS “Man”
Gordon Peter DEAN “Flash”
Raymond John DENNIS “Huck”
Michael Edward DOWNES “Mick”
Robert John DUGGAN
John Charles ECKHARDT
Kathleen Dawn ELLEM
Rudolph FING “Rudy”
Mervin David FLESSER “Swervin”
John David FRAZER-ALLEN “Jaffa”
Michael John GARDINER “Mick”
Ian John GIBSON “Gibbo”
Ross William GREEN “Greeny”
James Alexander GUNTHER “Jamesy”
Robin Beaumont HAY “Rob”
Raymond John HEFFLER
Geoffrey William HODGSON “Geoff”
Leonard William JAENKE “Lenny”
Victor Roy JOHNSON
John KELLY “Jack”
Thomas KETTLE “Tom”
Jack Fredrick KINGS “Jacko”
David John KURRLE
Keith LYNN
Clive James MARTIN
Best Custom: SEATTLE
Best American: Terry Steinhardt
Rig of the Day: TDH
Best Euro: K S Easters
Best Bonneted: Ronnie Holmes
Best Cabover:
Best Rigid: Gordonbrook Sands
Denis Allan MAYES “Cane Toad”
Raymond ‘George’ Maxwell MCNEE “Bulldog Mac”
Ricky Thomas MITCHELL “Jaffa”
Lionel Peter MURPHY “Papa Smurf”
Peter MURPHY “Murph”
Rick Vincent NOBLE “Rick”
Darren Raymond NOLAN “Dazzy” or “Bucky”
Kevin John NORRIS “Chucky”
Kenneth Noel PERCY “KP”
Trevor John PERREM “Kaboom”
David Thomas REYNOLDS “Dave”
Kevin ROGERS “Kev”
Alan George ROSS “Al”
Dayel George RUTTER
Aron John RYAN “AJ”
Rosetta Dorothy RYAN “Rose”
Raymond John SARAH “Dad”
Brent James SCHICKER “Schick”
Selwyn Neale SCHLOSS “Chook”
Geoffrey Francis SCHNITZERLING “Snitzy”
Dennis James SMITH “Recker”
John Errol SMITH “Smithy”
Trevor Thomas STOKES “Snow”
Daniel STUART “Black Man”
Stanley THACKERAY “Slim”
Donald Keith THIELE “Boof”
Leo Anthony THOW
Peter Thomas TOOHILL “P.T.T”
Robert Edward VAN DAMME “Bob”
Bruce Douglas VIERITZ
Wayne Thomas WAITE “Bull”
Allan WANLESS “Roy”
Donald John WEBER “Don”
Phillip Edward WHITLOCK “Phil”
Robert John WILLIAMSON “Robbo”
Convoy colour
on page 90! See more
feel like it’s gone, you can feel the gap,” Juanita says.
thanks, for continuing to make the weekend an amazing tribute.
No shortage of truck nuts doing the final touches before the convoy kicks off for another year
The trucks on show after the convoy were amazing
“It brings the families who no longer have that connection back to this event, where they can see their loved ones and friends. You feel that connection again and realise you’re not alone. We’re all suffering the same loss.”
Now the event spans generations for the Johnson family, with Juanita’s children and grandchildren involved in the annual event weekend as well.
To the sponsors, volunteers and drivers who line the roads each year to watch the trucks roll by, Juanita wants to extend her
“If you read the event page’s Facebook comments or see the crowds on the day, you’re able to tell, these people want to pay their respects properly,” she says.
“Without trucks, Australia stops, and this is one weekend where we get to pay tribute to those who are no longer with us, and also to the ones that are out on the roads continuing to help Australia move every day.”
And that’s what makes Light on the Hill, one of the most important Australian trucking events.
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Part of the Brisbane convoy making it’s way west towards Gatton
Tribute Toowoomba
Two convoys, one mission – to celebrate and commemorate the truckies who keep Australia rolling
Words & Images | Warren Aitken
As far as action packed months go, October is definitely a medal winner. There is always so much going on in October. From the AFL Grand Final to NRLW Grand Final, plus of course the NRL Grand Final. Then off course there is the Mighty Mountain trek for the Bathurst 1000, and the month finishes with the start of the Melbourne Cup Carnival.
It also contains one of the most significant weekends for the transport industry with the Lights on the Hill Memorial Convoy Weekend.
I headed off at what I thought was an extremely early hour to catch the first trucks rolling into the Brisbane staging area on Mica Street, Carole Park.
I arrived just before 6am and found the line up to the local café for coffee and bacon and egg rolls was almost as long as the gathering of trucks that had already endowed Mica St.
The weather was already starting to play its part for the day, nothing but blue skies and a gentle breeze as I did a quick walk through to snap some shots and catch up with some folks.
There's just something cool about a well lined up convoy
The two-day event sees hundreds of dedicated truckies and trucking families converging on Gatton Showgrounds on the Saturday, with events and activities running well into the night and then on the Sunday the touching memorial service takes place at the truckies wall.
Regretfully I was unable to attend the memorial service this year, but I did fill in Saturday racking up some kilometres in the Ute and some steps in the Nikes capturing plenty of the day. So, sit back, pour a cuppa tea and enjoy the pictorial wrap up and my walk through from this year’s event.
Sorry, that was very inappropriate of me. Obviously if you aren’t from Brisbane you will have to sit back and enjoy a Saucer of Tea, seeing as after the AFL, NRLW & NRL, Brisbane has got ALL the “cups”. I promise, that’s my only dig.
Sporting bravado aside, this year’s Lights on the Hill Convoy was another roaring success.
Banners of all size and shape were getting adhered to the cavalcade of commercial vehicles. MC to HC, HR to MR, Lights on the Hill convoy is the epitome of inclusion. Everyone there to celebrate and recognise a fellow fallen colleague.
Walking amongst the hundreds of trucks awaiting release from Brisbane there was an almost lifted sense of pride this year. Maybe it was the weather, maybe it was the quality of trucks that were rolling in, but for an industry often divided it was nice to see such strength in numbers.
In the interest of inclusion, I limited my time at the Mica Street staging area and hit the highway to squeeze in a bit of preparation photography at the beginning of the other half of the convoy.
Just in case you are new to the Lights on the Hill Convoy concept I guess I should point out, ‘Lights on the Hill Convoy’ is technically ‘Lights on the Hill Convoys’ plural.
One convoy forms up in the streets of Carole Park in Brisbane. At 9.30am with the convoy several hundred trucks deep, the convoy heads out on to the Ipswich Motorway, then the Warrego Highway and end up at the Gatton Show Grounds.
Meanwhile up at Brown and Hurley in Toowoomba, several hundred more trucks are congregating. Synced in with Brisbane, at 9.30 am they proceed from Brown and Hurley, along Boundary Road and join onto the Toowoomba bypass. Which they follow all the way down to the Gatton Show Grounds as well.
It may seem a bit excessive for me to try and catch both ends of the convoy, but the truth is, the hour and a bit drive between locations allows me to experience one of the more moving aspects of the convoy. The public support.
As I bolted along the highway I get to see hundreds, if not thousands of people setting
up their possies. There are tailgates down, eskies topped up, gazebos being erected and sun umbrellas galore all along the highway. Exiting Brisbane on the Warrego there is a constant stream of flags and banners, all arriving early for the best vantage point and all out to support the industry we know and love.
The Toowoomba side is a little more difficult. There are no stopping points up or down the new bypass, but the streets that lead away from Brown and Hurley as well as the Warrego Highway east bound at the bottom
The Lights on the Hill Volunteers wore the soles of their shoes walking the staging area and selling the Convoy Flags
The Kelly fleet were dressed in tribute to those lost
of the bypass are all jam packed. Most getting in a good couple of hours of sunbaking before the trucks even begin to roll.
Land Transport were a major sponsor of this year's event and had a huge representation at this year's Lights on the Hill Convoy
I did manage to make it to Toowoomba just in time for the drivers briefing up there, close cooperation between the Queensland Police Service and the Lights on the Hill Committee means a well worked traffic management plan is in place at both ends. Something vital for an event of this size. I had just enough time to appreciate the volume of trucks squeezed into the Brown and Hurley yard, as well as dozens more at the likes of Followmonts yard nearby. I snapped some shots then headed off to see where I could squeeze in amongst the roadside fans for some photos.
Sunshine and happiness greeted the convoy participants from both ends as nearly a thousand trucks made their way into the Gatton Show Grounds, I am still waiting to hear the exact number, but I can attest that the quality of the vehicles on display was absolutely incredible. You could appreciate
the hours and hours of prep work that had gone into every vehicle. Parking up in the Showgrounds took a while, as you would expect. The queue from the Warrego into Gatton was great for the spectators, but not so much the trucks that were still at work and trying to get into Gatton. For such a worthy cause however, none seemed to mind.
Whomever was in charge of the parking plan earned themselves a nice cold beer, all entrants were parked up before 2pm this year. A feat that is only appreciated when you witness the enormity of the convoy.
I myself found my way to the stage and managed to enjoy performances by Smokie Pete, And Billy Bridge & Bec Le Nye before I ventured back out to see the dual convoys in their entirety.
With the melodious tones of hundreds of icepacks and cooling systems, all singing the songs of the roadside parking bays, I wandered around to appreciate the machines on show.
The gate crew at Gatton were kept extremely busy this year. Massive crowds flocked to the event
Mackay Furniture transport had a fleet of outstanding Kenworths looking on point this year
DEALS Events
Coming together to celebrate lost ones is what the weekend is all about. Gary, Kay, Deidre, Sharyn, Wayne & Liala were flying the flag for Sharyn’s late husband Allan. Whom they lost earlier this year
I’m not playing favourites, but this R&K Bulk T909, in lilac, looked outstanding
Liam Cross and Koby Wilkie from Exodas Transport had one of the company's Macks in the convoy, carrying the flag for Scott Christiansen
Rocky Black and his outstanding SAR, heading for the Gatton show grounds as part of the Toowoomba convoy
The crowds were out enjoying the food trucks, the free rides and the enthusiastic atmosphere
Linda Hall is flying the flag for the late Danny ‘Bigsxe’ Hall on the front of Peter McGrath's 1981 Kenworth W-model
Sim and Jamie McMahon standing in front of a couple of their stunning rigs. Deservedly the McMahon fleet picked up Best Large Fleet as well
Jamie Haines and his son Will pilot these two impressive units for R & K Bulk Haulage
Ammar, Jay, Mitch and Zain from Crane Hotline in Brisbane
DEALS Events
Drivers start your engines, briefing complete. Time for drivers to head back to their rides and get ready to roll
From start of the art new school style to classically tough old school cool. There was a truck for everyone to enjoy. Much like the entertainment the team put on each year, where there is something for everyone on the main stage.
This year, with a big thank you to major sponsor Land Transport all the kids rides at this event were free. And yes, they put an actual age limit on the term ‘kids’ not just a maturity level. There were plenty of market stalls, from the likes of Campbells Transport, Ringers Western and One By Mel. There were also food trucks galore, as well as the local clubs putting on a damn fine sausage sizzle. Travis Sinclair returned this year to once again get the crowds up and about. With Josie, Hayley Jensen and Jeremy Turner closing out the night after some fantastic fireworks. Unfortunately, I also missed that this year, my card-carrying Kiwi status meant I had to be home to watch the Rugby first. What I love the most about the Lights on
the Hill is the inspiration and motivation that drags everyone out for this event. We have all been touched by accidents or incidents within our industry and The Lights on the Hill Convoy is a fantastic acknowledgement of all those people we have lost, as well as the importance and significance they have had within our lives.
This year another 70 names were added to the Gatton Memorial Wall at Lake Apex Park. It’s a sobering salute to the trucking world we all love. The turn out and support that events like The Lights on the Hill Memorial Weekend encourage cannot be understated.
Hence a big thank you, a massive applause and a hearty handshake to all those that put this event together. As well as a shout out to the hundreds of people that drove, cleaned, honked and high fived the hot day away.
As I write this summary, in between reapplications of aloe vera on the self-inflicted sunburn, I look forward to doing it all again next October.
The Trucks on the Run team finding their spots to enjoy the view and escape the sunshine
Scott
and
drew second place in the convoy with Scott's 1996 Gumboot that he runs for
Trucking
Russell
his mum Vivienne Scott
Jackl's
Best
OF BOORT
The 137th Boort Agricultural Show continued its evolution this year with the incorporation of the Boort Truck Show for the sixth year running
Images: Highway Photography
If there’s one thing country communities know how to do, it’s put on a show.
The deep, unmistakable rumble of a truck engine echoed through the Victorian town of Boort on October 12, for this year’s truck show, held as part of the annual agricultural show..
With around 160 trucks gleaming under the sun and more than 4,000 people rolling through the gates, the Boort Truck Show once again proved why it’s one of regional Victoria’s most loved celebrations of horsepower and hometown pride.
“It was such a great day,” event organiser Heath Saunders says.
“The weather was fine, the turnout was good, and everyone looked like they were enjoying their day out.”
From vintage rigs polished to perfection to the latest Kenworths showing off their shine, the lineup was a feast for truck lovers.
“The Kenworths were fairly well represented,” Heath says. “They’re a pretty popular brand up around these parts.”
But it was Sam Freeman’s new 909 named ‘Secret Service’ that stole the spotlight and took home the title of Truck of the Show.
For Heath, what tipped the day off wasn’t just the chrome or reflecting bull bars, it was the sense of community that filled the air.
“Seeing what great support we had for our little truck show was priceless,” he says.
“Everybody having a good day makes all the hard work worth it.”
The Boort Truck Show, was first added to the ag show in 2019, helping to build out the event to be a showcase of true community spirit, from sheepdog trials to ferret races, to horse events, carnival rides and fireworks lighting up the night sky. It’s a day where the whole town – and plenty of visitors – come together to celebrate everything that makes country life special.
Running this event successfully means a lot to Heath and the team behind it.
“I get a sense of pride for my town and the transport industry,” he says.
It was the perfect day for a truck show
The day ended with a fireworks display
“The community absolutely love it, it's probably one of the larger events in the calendar for our town, everyone gets around it.”
As the sun dipped, engines shut down and the fireworks cracked into the night sky,
Awards
Chocs Award: Ben Leech - 601
Farm Truck: McNally – T909
Special Purpose: R.Behne – Slingshot
Rigid: Dylan Scater - 900 Tipper
A
the feeling of a proud country community lingered.
And if the smiles and spotless trucks weren’t anything to go by, the Boort Truck Show is only getting stronger with every passing year.
Best Fleet: Swan Hill Freight Agents – Matt Mackinerny
Best Display: Nath – Thurwoods
Vintage: Trevor Davis
Best Paint: SAR Legend
Best Local: Daniel Perry Cooper - 909
Signwriting: Goodbody – T659
People’s Choice: Johnsons Tow Truck
Best in Show: Sam Freeman – Secret Service
Best under 2 y/o: Logan Few – Kenworth 909
Top 10: Peter Allan – Mack Cruiseliner
Top 10: Tom Nicholson – Mack Trident
Top 10: Mick Firgibbon – W model Nugget
Top 10: Jake Thompson – Peterbilt
Top 10: AJ – SAR Legend
Top 10: Matt Hall – Kenworth 909
Top 10: Neales - SAR
Top 10: Jesse Smith Gattuso – Peterbilt
Top 10: Wayne Wrigth – K100
Top 10: Peppi Inverno – T900
This W Model Kenworth caught the eye
A well-guarded T909 with all the stainless
stunning example of the Kenworth T908
R V Broadbent & Sons' Kenworth was on point
you have a great story to
At Deals on Wheels, we love nothing better than to celebrate the hard work our readers put into restoring trucks, organising events and attending truck shows.
If you have news you’d like to share, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing our editorial team on geoff.crockett@primecreative.com.au or Tiane.Gavillucci@primecreative.com.au or calling 0421 299 963.
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A er discovering his passion for heavy vehicles in high school, Queensland mechanic apprentice Lachlan Wright found himself on the WorldSkills National Championships podium
The WorldSkills Heavy Vehicle Mechanics competition is not for the faint-hearted.
Competitors are assessed on their ability to diagnose, repair and maintain heavy vehicles, ensuring they adhere to industry standards.
For competitor Lachlan Wright, a heavy vehicle mechanic apprentice, he rst discovered his trade when he participated in TAFE Queensland’s ‘Try A Trade’ program in high school.
“I chose to pursue heavy vehicle mechanics because of the variety and di erent challenges faced on a day-to-day basis,” he says.
At the regional iteration of the competition, Wright took out Gold, but he says the experience was not without its challenges.
“It was learning the skills required for the variety of tasks and
equipment we’re required to work on during the competition,” he says.
“To overcome this, I spent a lot of time working with experienced technicians, helping me to build processes to work through tasks and allowing an opportunity to ask questions, helping to clarify uncertainty.”
It certainly paid o , with Wright taking out the Silver Medal at the 2025 national championships, a feat he describes as his “proudest moment so far”.
He adds the entire WorldSkills experience has been enlightening.
“It’s taught me to say yes to whatever opportunities arise because you never know where they might lead you,” Wright says.
His workplace, Volvo Commercial Vehicles Australia – which is the primary commercial vehicle
distribution centre for Volvo Trucks, UD Trucks, and Mack Trucks in Queensland and New South Wales – has also played a major role in his development.
“I’ve learnt that you must be exible and able to adapt, you never know what might happen or what you’ll be doing next,” Wright says.
“I’ve also learnt that being organised and prepared helps greatly in succeeding with the tasks at hand.”
Down the track, his future goals are straightforward and inspiring.
“Beyond the competition, I want to continue to grow and improve as a mechanic, while also studying further as an auto electrician,” Wright says.
“I’d also like to help educate and encourage more young people to enter trades.”
Lachlan Wright took out the Silver Medal at the 2025 WorldSkills Heavy Vehicle Mechanics national championships. Image: WorldSkills Australia
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