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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
Tiane and I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a fantastic 2026!
Welcome
to Issue 526 of your Deals on Wheels Magazine
What a weekend that was!
As proud supporters of the Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show the Deals on Wheels team were out and about at the end of November to meet readers, take photos and gather stories for the weeks and months ahead.
This year's show had a bit of everything, including some very Victorian weather. It went from pouring rain and freezing wind to humid and hot, all within the space of an hour or two.
In true testament to the hardy nature of the transport family though, the crowds remained undeterred and the fundraising heroes manning the Rotary food stall burned through 80 dozen eggs by 2.30pm. Final fundraising numbers are still being assessed, however
the consenus on the day was that the two-day show, and Friday night dinner honouring the show's founders had combined to make this year one of the best yet for the town.
A big congratulations to all involved for another well-run event, and to the truckies and their support crews who turned up in big numbers to share their passion and have a go at winning a trophy or two.
Also, a shout out to those companies who filled the oval on the day, sponsored categories and showed their support for the show along the way.
As this edition of Deals on Wheels hits the street there will be just 10 days left until Christmas Day, with the New Year coming quickly after that.
We look forward to continuing to serve our readers in 2026 and encourage you to follow along on Facebook, sign up for our weekly newsletters, grab a subscription, and most importantly, let us know about the stories you'd love to read.
I can't wait to see what the new year brings, to read about your restoration projects, and to help to share your news with readers all over Australia. I look forward to hearing from you at geoff.crockett@primecreative.com.au.
Space-age look marks Actros' arrival
The ProCabin version of the Mercedes-Benz Actros has arrived and it's turning heads
The new aerodynamic Mercedes-Benz ProCabin has been launched in Australia and New Zealand.
Set to deliver significant fuel efficiency improvements, it also has a new five-radar active safety suite that has been introduced as standard across the whole Actros range.
Daimler Truck Australia Pacific president and CEO Daniel Whitehead says the development of the ProCabin will benefit Mercedes-Benz Trucks customers.
“The Actros ProCabin is a shining example of Daimler Truck’s commitment to drive down fuel consumption through innovation and give our customers the edge,” he says.
“It reinforces our commitment to realworld safety with a remarkable active safety suite that introduces new technology and processes data 20 times faster than before.”
The ProCabin replaces the existing larger cab Actros models, the 2.5 StreamSpace and Gigaspace models. The smaller cab models, the 2.3 ClassicSpace and StreamSpace, continue with the existing design.
All Actros models have been upgraded with the Active Brake Assist 6 safety package that now includes five radars that provide a 270-degree view around the vehicle and allows for optimum operation of the Active Side Guard Assist 2 (ASGA) system.
Mercedes-Benz engineers extended the front of the Actros ProCabin by 80mm and shaped the front of the truck for maximum aerodynamics. The new design removes unwanted gaps and joints and guides air
either around the cabin or straight into the truck’s cooling system.
This concentration of the airflow maintains the cooling effectiveness of the Actros.
There are also new sail-shaped side air deflectors at the rear of the cabin and a new roof spoiler as well as a new undercab spoiler, reducing air turbulence and improving air flow.
All interior lighting now uses LED technology, and engineers have now fitted radars on the outer edge of the front bumper and on each side of the cab. This enables a 270-degree view around the vehicle and allows for the clever Active Side Guard Assist 2 (ASGA) system to be improved by covering an even greater area than before.
It can even stop the truck when it is turning left (up to 20km/h) if it detects a hazard.
The Actros is available with the optional Active Drive Assist 3 for partially automated driving (SAE Level 2), and features Predictive Powertrain Control, using topographic map data and GPS information to help the truck anticipate terrain and select the optimum shift pattern and engine response for maximum fuel economy.
The Actros ProCabin is available with the proven 13-litre OM 471 and 16-litre OM473 Euro 6 engines.
While a series of upgrades have been made to further develop these engines, no further changes have been made as part of the ProCabin introduction.
Expect to see more of these sleek trucks on the highways in 2026.
Image: Daimler Truck
Unit 1/71 Axis Place, Larapinta, Brisbane, QLD, 4110, Australia
Outback Trucker’s favourite personality, ‘Sludge’, opens up about life after his accident and his renowned Peterbilt, ‘The Phantom’
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Paul ‘Sludge’ Andrews
Becoming a regular on the 7mate show Outback Truckers was never on Sludge’s to-do list
After spending more than 50 years chasing horizons and clocking up between 10 to 15 million kilometres over his trucking career, 7mate Outback Truckers star, Paul ‘Sludge’ Andrews, never thought he may never be able to drive again.
Whether he was behind the wheel of a truck, car or motorcycle, the open road was his trusted friend.
But in 2023, an awful motorcycle accident changed everything, leaving Sludge with significant injuries, including bleeding in the brain, fractured bones and torn ligaments.
And while physical injuries healed, the head trauma is still difficult to navigate, meaning driving trucks was off the table for quite some time.
He regained his license back in October last year, and since the accident has spent two nights in his truck.
“I've always been a bit of a rebel, but I've lived life to the fullest,” he says. “I've pushed the limits of life, and it nearly killed me the last time. So now it's time for me to give back.”
“A lot of people helped my wife Wendy and
I after my accident when we were in a really bad spot, and now it's time that I give back to people and say thank you.”
After his son brought him back to life that day, Sludge now views life, and the open road, from a different perspective.
These days, The Outback Truckers star doesn’t spend as many nights on the road. He’s traded the long hauls for family dinners and the satisfaction of being home with loved ones.
“Life has changed hugely since the accident,” he says. “I missed my kids growing up, going to school and their sporting events. Now I don't want to be away. I want to be home.”
“With our kids at home, we have a lot of fun. I suppose I'm lucky enough to still be here, and I now want to cherish the time that I have left with them.
“That's the big thing about being a truckie. You miss out on all the milestones and family life, now I’m making up for lost time. I feel like I’ve learnt to slow down, appreciate more and not take things for granted.”
After fans helped him and his wife Wendy get back on their feet, Sludge aims to give back
Look at The Phantom go!
But don’t think for a second he’s left the world of trucks behind.
The week before his interview with Deals on Wheels, Sludge was off at a truck show, with many more lined up in the coming months.
‘The Phantom’ was named after an old American song called ‘Phantom 309’
His truck, ‘The Phantom’ is quite the show truck itself.
The 2009 Peterbilt was imported from America and stripped down and rebuilt from the ground up when it arrived in Melbourne.
The left-hand drive was swapped over, the bunk expanded from 60 to 72 inches and it was painted a striking purple, similar to the Holden Morpheus which came out around the same time, transforming the Peterbilt into an absolute showstopper.
“I called it ‘The Phantom’ after an old American song called ‘Phantom 309’, it's about a school bus full of children pulling out in front of a truck. The truck driver swerved
and in doing so, ran off the road in an attempt to save the kids,” he says.
“I wanted ‘The Phantom’ written across the side of the truck, but a painter in Melbourne wanted to do it for me and kept the design under wraps until I flew over to pick up the finished product.”
When it was done, the truck didn’t just turn heads, it turned him into a TV personality.
Initially he says he was quite reluctant to join Outback Truckers – a friend nominated him to be filmed. Before long though, the purple Peterbilt and its larger-than-life driver would become known Aussie favourites.
“At first it was very strange having the cameras around, I hated it,” he says.
“As a truckie, you spend so much time by yourself, you become a bit of a recluse. Your family are the people at the roadhouse, more back in the day especially.
The Phantom can’t help but look good while it works
Sludge is a regular truck show attendee
Just when you'd seen everything there's this boat
“I tried to pull out of the show in season five, but they wouldn’t let me. Now I’m looking at going overseas to film next year, so I’m a bit spoilt.”
The show has made a big difference in not only his daily life, but also his personal business.
Sludge decided on the paint scheme after seeing the Holden Morpheus
“It’s allowed our business to grow huge, now we sell merchandise,” he says. “Life is never boring; there’s always something going on.”
This year, the team behind Outback Truckers have filmed a new show where veteran truckies train up rookies, and Sludge has taken part.
of the man who once lived full throttle.
“I’ve seen a lot of accidents and people killed, so you kind of have to become quite strong, you become immune to all that kind of stuff,”
“These days I think a lot more about people. When they’re broken down, you always stop to help, in general you learn to help out more.
“I try not to take anything for granted. You never know what’s around the corner.”
Deals on Wheels asked Sludge what makes Aussie truckies special, and he doesn’t miss a beat.
After his accident, he hasn’t been behind the wheel as much
“I've spent a bit of time teaching people. I had a woman over in Gunnedah that I had been training up, and she's now gone from having a single trailer license to a road train license which is cool.
“They fly us all over the place to do this, which I’ve really enjoyed because it's giving back.”
As an experienced truckie, who has experienced the highs and lows of driving long highways, Sludge is a softer, wiser version
“It’s the distance. We’re one of the only places in the world that has this bloody distance,” he says.
“You rely on your trucking mates to help you out. They become your family.”
From hauling fuel and oil across WA with his business, ‘Paul Andrews Transport’, to filming for a truck show, to deadly accidents, to mentoring the next generation of truck drivers, Sludge has lived through it all, the highs and the heartbreaks of transport.
Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
Get set for a big year in 2026 with a smart new truck to bolster your fleet and bring the very latest in comfort and technology to the office each day.
The team at Prestige Truck Centre have 2025 Hino 300 Series in stock now, well priced to sell and ready for immediate delivery, with a 5-year factory warranty thrown in as well.
This particular beast is a 616 Auto Wide Cab MWB Tradeace spec, complete with a factory alloy bullbar, and a heavy-duty 4-ton rated alloy tray, alloy mesh headboard and removable rear racks and hurdles. It comes with all the latest safety tech too.
For more phone Prestige Truck Centre on 03 9999 5162.
Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
Grain GO WITH THE
With prices ranging starting from $140,800 inc GST, Freightmore Transport has two 2025 Grain Tippers in production right now. The aluminium units are designed to meet the needs of grain haulers with a high tensile bowl, two-way tail, electric roll over tarp, grain chute and HYVA 5 stage hoist included.
Sample stock is available at various locations for a look, and the trailers can be customised to suit your needs.
To check out a trailer or find out more phone Freightmore Transport on 02 6171 3204.
Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
Are you in the sort of business that requires a crane truck to make things work?
If so, you’re in luck. This 2013 Scania G480 8x4 truck has hit the market with a Palfinger PK 9001 Crane fitted. With just one owner and a full service history from Scania, the remote-controlled crane still has five years of certification left. The truck has three months of registration and a roadworthy certificate.
To find out more phone Union Truck Sales on 03 8547 8664.
Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
Cummins CX-15
18-speed Eaton Roadranger
$192,500
Trentham, VIC
Mighty GRAB A T909
With a Cummins X15 engine fitted just 100,000km ago this 2017 Kenworth T909 has plenty of work left in it yet.
With an 18-speed Roadranger fitted, the truck is a shining example of one of Kenworth’s most popular models.
As you’d expect with this model, the interior is decked out with the obligatory diamond trim upholstery in stunning burgundy and black. Air bag suspension has also been fitted for an even smoother ride.
For more information phone EPJ Trading Co on 03 9988 9194.
Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
Tipper TIDY
Dressed in blue and white livery with flashes of intricate red scroll work this 2010 Kenworth K108 Big Cab is there for the taking from McGhie Truck and Machinery in Victoria.
Fitted with the 550 hp Cummins engine Kenworth and an 18-speed Roadranger transmission, the truck also features the high-rise sleeper the truck is famous for.
It has a 46,000 diff on KW8 bag, is PTO equipped and rated to 90 tonne for road train work.
To find out more phone McGhie Truck and Machinery on 03 9999 5171.
Scan with your Smartphone camera to check out this deal!
9.6m long x 1.8m high approx QT ST3 Demo Air series
$176,980
Somerton, VIC
03 9988 9139
Tipper DEMO SPEC
If you’re looking for a tough tipper to deal with demolition waste removal the 2025 Gorski TTRU Hardox 3 Axle semi tipping trailer demolition spec is the real deal.
This trailer is made from hardened steel, with airbag suspension fitted, and the capacity to hold up to about 38 cubic metres.
It features all of the Gorski Premium gear, including a heavy duty main bearer, full length pressed top rails and splash guards and a heavy duty chassis fitted with TMC Drum Brake Axles of the 10-Stud, 285mm variety.
To find out more about this trailer phone Gorski Engineering on 03 9988 9139.
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.
If you’d like to have every edition of Deals on Wheels delivered to your door, check out our subscription deals by scanning the QR code.
DEALS Showcase
Trailer
TREASURES
North Side Trailers have been delivering the goods for their customers across Australia for more than 40 years
Images: North Side Trailers
A
North Side Trailers supply quality secondhand semi-trailers – from low loaders and tippers to tankers, tag-alongs, flat tops and more.
With two locations across South Australia and Victoria and more than 45 years in operation, the business has become a trusted source for second-hand semis of every type.
The team at North Side know their trailers, and the customers who need them.
“When people come to us, they’re asking for a trailer that’s going to earn its keep,” North Side Trailer’s Nick Lalic says.
“They trust us because we’ve been doing this for almost half a century.”
And with that much experience under their belt, they’ve developed a sharp eye for gear that lasts.
Take the 1989 Tandem multi wheels tag trailer for example. A piece still built tougher than most new gear on the market. With hydraulic ramps, spring suspension and an electric leg, this workhorse sits at $28,000 plus GST, and is ready for its next owner.
Then there’s the 1993 Haulmark 2DT tri axle dog flat top perfect for operators transporting construction materials, palletised goods and agricultural products.
Featuring a spring suspension, container locks and spring loaded ramps, this flat top is built for hard work. With two available, they both come to $43,000 plus GST, and won’t sit around for long.
The Brentwood low loader is another North Side Trailer favourite. It’s a machine with an approximately 25 foot long deck, twospeed legs, hydraulic ramps and brand new tyres and ramps. At $35,000 plus GST, it’s the kind of opportunity you don’t want to regret missing out on.
And for operators looking for something lighter, faster and built for the modern freight task, North Side Trailers is also rolling out a pair of Maxitrans B double ultra lite 2012 skel trailers. With airbag suspension and 10 stud alloy wheels, one A trailer suits a 20 foot container, and the other B Trailer suits the same. They’re sharp, clean and ready to go for $63,000 plus GST.
So, 45 years in, and North Side Trailers provides customers with straightforward deals, honest advice and hardworking trailers that stand the test of time. And in transport, that’s what counts.
For more go to https://north-side-trailers-sa. tradetrucks.com.au/
1989 tandem multiwheels tag trailer for sale
are two 1993
There
Haulmark 2DT tri-axle dog flat tops available
This low loader has a 25ft long deck
These Maxitrans trailers both suit a 20ft container
DEALS Showcase
BORN
AGAIN
Kenworth
Family-run WTP expertly revives a 2008 Kenworth, delivering trusted workmanship to every customer
It’s the kind of transformation you can only expect from a business built on family values and decades of experience.
WTP Pty Ltd is a family-operated operation led by Ray Wehbe, who has spent more than 50 years in the heavy vehicle industry and first opened the doors back in 1998.
Today, Ray works alongside his son Anthony and a team of qualified staff who share the same goals.
“We aim to supply trucks and trailers to suit each customer’s needs,” Ray says.
“Our team is committed to delivering solutions that work for our customers.”
And they mean it.
Whether it’s modifying a vehicle to exact specs or sourcing spare parts from their extensive range, WTP aims to make every customer feel a part of their business.
Concrete agitator trucks are built to survive some of the roughest duty cycles in transport.
“They are built with high-capacity drivelines, strong braking systems and reinforced chassis,” Ray says.
“Making them an excellent vehicle for a second life as a tipper.”
So, at WTP, they did just that, giving a 2008 Kenworth T358 a second life.
They stripped it back, off came the agitator assembly and down to the bones it went.
They then prepared the chassis to suit, and WTP’s qualified staff cleanly fit a near new flat-top tipper, hydraulics, electrics and operational controls to the truck.
Then came the fresh coat of paint, the finishing touch that transformed the Kenworth into a tidy workhorse.
WTP brought in an engineer to certify the build and ensure everything was compliant, leaving no detail overlooked.
And the result? A vehicle that’s ready to roll back into work.
There’s only one thing that’s now missing. A new owner.
For $110,000 including GST, someone is about to score a machine that’s got plenty more to give.
Call 02 4721 7889 for this revived Kenworth to be the next hero in your fleet, derived from a team that never cuts corners.
“From all the staff at WTP, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year,” Ray says.
The 2008 Kenworth T358 has been given a new life
Images: WTP
Before the transformation
WTP wishes all those in transport a Merry Christmas!
Castlemaine CAN’T STOP
It’s one of Victoria’s biggest truck shows, and despite the crazy weather, Castlemaine delivered a successful weekend
Words | Tiane Gavillucci Images | Prime Creative Media
WThere was no missing the distinctive designs of the RSD Transport and Truck Repairs fleet, including the yellow and black T909 and the T904 dressed in white, black and yellow
ithin the few minutes I arrived in Castlemaine, I observed two things; blaring truck horns and that classic Victorian cocktail of sideways rain, sudden sunshine and everything in between.
One minute I was wiping droplets off my phone screen, the next I was squinting into warm midday light reflecting off highly polished chrome.
The country town woke up to the sound of heavy machinery, an experience a city slicker like me had never experienced before.
By 8am, families were already claiming spots along the streets, planting folding chairs firmly into damp grass as kids stood on the back of utes waiting for the first horn blast of the parade.
For Malcom Blanch of Blanch Transport who had been at the show since Saturday, this weather was no surprise.
“I’ve been coming here for 32 years. Every third year it’s hot, really nice, or raining,” he says.
Hauling frozen chips for nearly 45 years hasn’t gotten old, Malcolm says he loves his
Bonnets open for judging paid off for Morris Transport which won Best Fleet at the show with its seven trucks
work and the industry that he’s involved with, despite the current state of things.
“It is what it is. This industry has always been tough – you deal with it as best you can.”
And coming to Castlemaine is one way they do, coming together to celebrate a passion that runs deep and generations long.
Drivers fired up their horns through the town, hyping everyone up for the big day ahead – the rain didn’t stand a chance.
More than 150 trucks snaked their way through Castlemaine, a moving line of polished metal and vibrant colour.
All up 188 trucks registered for judging on the day, and with plenty more just along for the day out.
And every rig was immaculate, shined up as if they had rolled straight out of the showroom, there were none that I noticed wearing dust or dirt, just pure shine, and pride.
Back at the grounds, the recreation reserve transformed into a patchwork of trucks, hot food trucks and merchandise tents.
Shamick Transport was the major sponsor this year
RSD Transport's T900 won the Deals on Wheels Best Resto trophy
DEALS Events
The Memphis Flash represented for Peterbilt in style
T & T Nicholson Earthmoving from Sunday Creek had their red and white trucks on show
Castlemaine SES showed how to peel the roof off a crashed car to protect the driver best
They weren't all big rigs
The 2025 Castlemaine Truck Show winners took home some impressive trophies
There was plenty of fun for the youngest truck fans
Lyn Ellery was on hand to sell truck show merchandise in support of Rotary Castlemaine
Greg Champion had the crowd in his hand
The team from Pizza De Wheels helped to feed the masses
Volunteers hustled from task to task, some organising registrations and others cooking eggs, bacon, sausages, chicken skewers and hot chips.
Alisha and Jeremy
Inverno with their 2018 T900 Kenworth
All up there were 100 volunteers from various Castlemaine charity groups involved in the day, with Rotary going through 80 dozen eggs at their food tent by 2.30pm.
Despite the moody skies, you could still feel people’s enjoyment.
Kids lined up for rides, families wandered through gleaming rigs comparing favourites, and crews lounged up in camp chairs, probably swapping stories about breakdowns, rebuilds and long nights on the highway.
The grounds were still buzzing, and the people were happy.
“We haven’t done this show before, this is our first time,” truckie Drew Bland says.
“I’m based out of Mornington Peninsula; it was a long drive to get here. But it’s great, you meet lots of different people.”
Drew has five trucks, including three Kenworths that haul concrete and dirt.
“I got into transport because my dad was in interstate trucking – so I spent years sitting in the truck to Adelaide.”
Every story from each truck lover was
different. Where they were from, what they hauled, and what they drove. But what brought them together was the classic camaraderie this industry loves to demonstrate.
After doing my rounds of admiring each rig, I wondered with so many immaculate machines parked up, which one the judges would choose to take home the top prize. Every corner turned, was another standout – spotless Kenworths, beautifully kept Peterbilts, an electric Volvo and meticulously restored classics sitting beside working trucks that had earned every one of their kilometres. What really stood out to me though, was the mood of the day.
Even when light spitting rain turned into heavy downpours and the wind turned umbrellas inside out, people simply pulled up their hoods, shifted under tents to wipe droplets off their camera lenses, and carried on.
It was obvious to me that Castlemaine’s Truck Show is too big and too loved to be dampened by a few clouds.
When the trophies were finally handed out under a patchy, unsure sky, the crowd leaned in, cheered on as winners were called and
Check out the quality trophies just waiting for the lucky winners to be named
Diesel Bland and Drew Bland – Hauling Thunder, based out of Mornington Peninsula
DEALS Events
mates ribbed each other with the usual goodnatured banter.
Truck of the Show this year went to Reeve’s Transport for their 2024 Kenworth T909.
Malcolm Blanch and Lochlan McCarthyJohnson of Blanch
Transport with the company's two Kenworths
Co-owner Matt Reeve was quick to heap praise on son Kai who had been polishing the truck between rain showers pretty consistently from Friday afternoon to bring it up to the level that had the judges smiling and ticking the right boxes on Sunday.
He says the truck is special for his family, only six months old it has a tribute on the back to his grandfather that reads “The Legacy Lives On” - In Memory of Harold (Bon) Reeve, 14/07/1909 to 22/08/1997.
The stunning truck’s paint colours reflect the colours his dad used to drive under too.
Matt says the company’s trucks spend their days hauling freight, with the next truck show they’ll attend likely to be Tooradin in January, although they won’t be entering for judging as he is involved in the committee of that event.
Speaking at the launch of the Awards ceremony Castlemaine Rotary President Trevor Bray thanked all of the truckies for turning out and making it one of the best shows on record.
“I’d just like to thank all of those people for
supporting this truck show and the amazing truckies, thanks for coming. It's been fantastic.
“And the work you put into your trucks and how fantastic they look. I really commend you."
He also paid tribute to the volunteers..
“The volunteers, well, it's not just the Rotarians, because there's not enough of us to do a show of this size. We need about 100 people to do this. And I must thank all the other clubs and groups, the not- for-profits, who we we help along the way, and they come here and support us, and they help us, just for the cooking, the cleaning, sorting the rubbish, manning the gates, you name it. There's a lot goes on behind the scenes.
"I've been to a number of these events now, and I think this was one of our most successful truck shows.”
With Trevor''s words ringing in my ears as I walked back to the car, gearing up for my long drive back to Melbourne, I thought Castlemaine was quite the snapshot of good country spirit – ready to show up, rain, hail or shine.
Typical Victorian weather might have kept us guessing, but Castlemaine keeps delivering, year after year.
Awards
TRUCK OF SHOW:
Sponsored by Shamick Transport
#101 Kenworth T909, M&D Reeve Transport, driver Matt FLEET (3 or more):
Sponsored by Melbourne North Truck Centre
Morris Transport – Number of Rigs = 7
BEST WORKING RIG 2024–25:
Sponsored by R&R McClure Excavations
#68 Kenworth T909, M&T Blanch Transport, driver Malcolm Runner up
#57 AUTOCAR P MVR, Calleja Transport, driver Don Entries: 44
Best on Ground Saturday - Michael of Moloney Bulk Haulage, pictured with his Kenworth T909 and trophy with sponsor Michael Aiello from Shamicks and Rotary
Yard, Workshop & Fabricating division located at Trentham, Victoria (Closed Saturdays). Please contact one of the above for an appointment.
DEALS Events
All right THAT’S
The 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival rocks around in January and we’ve caught up with a couple of truck driving tribute artists who’ll
be rolling in for the show
Caption.
Image: Parkes Elvis Festival
Legend has it that in April 1954 Elvis Presley started working for Crown Electric in Memphis as a truck driver delivering goods to worksites for $1 an hour, with aspirations of becoming an electrician.
In June of that same year his song That’s All Right (Mama) was recorded at Sun Records. In July, he quit truck driving to pursue music… and the rest, as they say, is history!
The life, times and music of Elvis Presley are celebrated in all their glory each year in the regional New South Wales town of Parkes in for the form of the annual Elvis Festival.
As the town prepares to host its 33rd festival, 21 Elvis tribute acts from around Australia and the world are busy rehearsing to shake, rattle and roll their way to glory as they compete for the title of Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist.
The winner gets to travel to the promised land in Memphis with a place in the semi-final round of the 2026 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist event during Elvis Week in August – an event held in honour of Elvis that coincides with the anniversary of his passing on August 16, 1977.
Among those competitors are South Australian Matt Birse, and Kiwi turned Queenslander Brendon Chase.
Aside from their intricate knowledge of Elvis’ music, both of these singers share a trucking background with their hero.
By day, Matt drives a prisoner movement truck between courts and jails in Adelaide, while Brendon’s a fly in fly out firefighter on the
mines who’s often behind the wheel of the fire truck as it rolls into action.
For Brendon, his latest gig is somewhat different to where he started out working on ships as a Chief Petty Officer in the Royal New Zealand Navy.
Coming from a musical family Brendon started singing early.
It was when he was about seven-years-old and Elvis’ Aloha concert came on television in 1973 that he says the seed was planted on wanting to be cool like the king.
In 1996 Brendon entered his first Elvis competition as a bit of a dare. He says he lost, but the bug bit and he came back the next year and won.
On the navy ships, he would always pack a jump suit or two, and when they floated into port he would find himself in local pubs in Singapore and the like putting on shows for the sailors on shore leave.
Now living on the Gold Coast in Australia, Brendon, 56, divides his time between FIFO work at the mines in Mackay, and performing as an Elvis tribute artist on regular rock cruises and club and theatre events that come up.
“I’ve been doing it for 29 years now, almost longer that Elvis has been singing,” he says.
“I’ve slowed down now. I’ve had years where I had far too much on. I pick and choose what I want to do now.”
When it comes to favourite venues, Brendon says there’s nothing better than working
in small theatres where fans can immerse themselves in the music they love for a few hours at a time. He’ll be taking the stage at Parkes for the 12th time this year.
For Matt, it was singing drunk at a wedding
that kick started his journey paying tribute to Elvis.
“I went to friend’s wedding as part of the wedding party and got up and sung Love Me Tender and Burning Love.”
About 25,000 people are expected at this year's festival.
Image: Parkes Elvis Festival
Brendon Chase performs as Elvis when he's not driving a fire truck as a FIFO minebased firefighter.
Image: Brendon Chase
Matt Birse as Elvis. Image: Matt Birse.
He says after a big night he woke up to find a note with a phone number, a date and the promise of $400 for him to sing at a wedding in three weeks’ time at Elvis.
It was the start of what was to become a long career as a tribute artist, from the first jumpsuit crafted using a white tablecloth, to a wardrobe full of them now.
“I started with a store-bought wig and welding glasses sprayed gold.”
His career evolved from birthdays and events to clubs and the last five years as a solo artist.
Today, his wigs are about $2,000 a pop and the 15 different jump suits, jewels, shirts, pants and capes he’s accumulated along the way are valued at around $150,000.
Elvis has taken Matt to Memphis to perform and all over Australia, and more recently Matt’s joined with some friends to take the role of Johnny Cash as part of the One Night in Memphis show.
The love of Elvis started with his Dad’s musical collection and an Uncle who used to
AUSTRALIAN MADE
belt out the Promise album in is F100 truck.
“I started buying Elvis CDs, bootleg CDs, VHS concerts and then I started to try and mimmick it.
“I’ve never had classical or professional singing lessons, just a little bit of gospel at church.”
Matt, who has performed and competed in Elvis tributes events all over the world, says he is looking forward to being back in Parkes and soaking up the love for the King that comes with the audience.
The 33rd Parkes Elvis Festival will be on from January 7 to 11.
Parkes Elvis Festival Director Brendan Shipley says crowds should expect a great mix of entertainment.
“Every year, the calibre of contestants gets stronger. This group of tribute artists brings a deep authenticity and energy to their performances,” he says.
“However, it’s not just about their dance moves and blue suede shoes. Contestants are evaluated based on their stage presence, vocal talent, and the overall excellence of their performance.”
More than 25,000 Elvis enthusiasts are
predicted to attend the event which is working to the theme of the famous song, Love Me Tender.
For all programming and ticketing information, visit www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au.
Matt Birse drives the specially modified prison van when he's not being the King.
KENWORTHT659RoadTrain140T 2012,WorththeLook, Heavydutyprimemover,140Tonrated,Cummins600,18 speedtrans,Meritor52190onKW6 rod suspension,Side tipperhydraulics,icepack,50"sleeper,icepackA/c,toolbox rack,autogreaser.13824. TA1232393. $187,000
DEALS Events
CALL OF THE
Wild
Wild weather meant wet grounds for the HCVCA truck show at Yarra Glen in November
Words: Geoff Crockett
Images: Prime Creative
Media
The truck line up was a little lighter this year, but there were still some great vehicles on show
If there’s one thing that can be said for the transport industry, it’s that resilience is a key trait for commercial success.
It’s the sort of resilience that gets into your blood, and flows through the people who become part of the business, rocking up day in, day out, to do their best, regardless of the conditions.
For those involved in the annual truck, bus and car gathering at the Yarra Glen Racecourse in November, organised under the auspices of the Historic Commercial Vehicle Club of Australia, resilience was on show in a big way.
The challenge participants and visitors were rallying against for 2025 was wild weather, and plenty of rain. The sort of rain that leaves the ground with new ponds for ducks to play in.
For the HCVCA members, the annual Display Day kicks off on the Saturday (November 8) with a dinner at the racecourse that night, followed by a day of trucks, cars, buses, food, music and family fun on the Sunday.
On Saturday, it bucketed down from a great height for most of the day, soaking the grassed
area that usually houses lines of trucks to the point of saturation.
Sunday started out wet and drizzly too, and when combined with major roadworks around that weekend, it meant a few less old trucks and their drivers opted to make the trek to Yarra Glen from their homes around Victoria and beyond.
Yet despite all that, there was still a solid base of fans and exhibitors who rolled up to fill the bitumen parts of the venue and enjoy the annual catch up with friends.
This year’s focus was a celebration of the Bedford Truck, which meant there were about a dozen great examples of this old brand on show, along with plenty of Internationals, a Commer or two.
Blackburn brick master Ben Martin brought along his 1950 Bedford.
Ben, who specialises on using bricks for landscape work, told Deals on Wheels he had decided to restore the old Bedford for use as his work truck and found it created a talking point whenever he was on site.
“People want to take photos of it, or talk about it all the time,” he says. “They definitely remember it”.
Bedford was the focus of this year's event
This little truck was a popular exhibit on the day
Bridging the river before a slow, wet exit at the end of the day
It was a little damp, so this one stayed on the trailer for the day
There was a little bit of everything
All the way from Mildura this blue beauty turned heads
at this event
This Scania found a bit of dry grass to call home
Now there's a colour you don't see around much anymore
The Diamond Reo is a regular site at historic truck shows
This Atkinson would have some stories to tell
The 1948 Federal still rolls out for the big days
Classic cars including this old Holden were part of the fun
On grounds on Sunday there was a Touch a Truck station for the kids, along with a Petting Zoo, Face Painting and access to the playground.
Live music of the Beatles-era rocked out from stage all day, with food trucks, barista coffee and market stalls fulfilling the shopping and eating needs of visitors.
The SES were also on hand to showcase their skills at crash rescue, bringing the jaws of life to bear on a light truck that had been in a head on. Their demonstration was popular with showgoers, drawing a big crowd as the team got to work.
The Chrysler Restorer’s Club turned out with their cars, and the back section of the grounds was dominated by historic buses, parked in neat rows, that brought back plenty of memories for those wandering around for a look.
HCVCA president Frank Mercuri says 2025’s show was still a winner.
“I guess all things considered, it was great.
“It was very wet under-foot, but the sun did shine for most of Sunday, and everyone was in really good spirits.
“As we don’t have a registration process in
place, it’s always a case of waiting to see how many and who turns up.
“Sometimes it’s a more pleasant surprise than other times, but given the amount of rain that was still falling Saturday night it was a pretty good turnout.
“Whilst we’ve had a few damp events in the past this was definitely the most water we had to deal with.
“Last time it looked like being this wet, it would have been wetter in fact, we pulled the pin and held the day a few months later.
“It’s really hard to know if it was just the rain that kept display vehicles away or if the disruption to the Melba Highway and the closure of the Eastern Freeway played a part as well.
“All academic really. Those who came enjoyed themselves and that’s all that matters. “We’ll do it again next year and hope for the best.”
For the club, there’s no denying it took a bit of a hit, with Frank saying numbers through the gate were down to about 800 adults plus kids, but “still acceptable given the circumstances”.
“We had around 120 commercial vehicles
Plenty of Chrysler Club members braved the conditions to bring their cars out and catch up with mates to swap stories
DEALS Events
There's something grand about this shape of car
Buses offered another commercial vehicle style to look at
The photo captures it all, cars, trucks and buses in one place
attend and around another 80 or so cars , mostly from the Chrysler Restorers Club and a good little crowd from the Vauxhall Club to help us celebrate our first feature truck, the mighty Bedford.
“We think having a feature truck to showcase was well received and we plan on continuing the trend for the foreseeable future. Maybe next year it could be Dodge/ Commer.
“The dinner on Saturday night was well attended, the best in several years and our guest speaker, Liz Martin, was excellent. The meal was also well received, and everyone appeared to have a great time.
“All the feedback we’ve had so far has been positive.”
For the HCVC this event takes a huge amount of planning every year, and Frank was quick to heap praise on the volunteers and members who turned out to help park the trucks, cars, and guide the public throughout the weekend.
“I’d like to thank the 20 or more volunteers who did all the hard yards on the day, at the gate, the merchandise truck, selling raffle tickets, putting out traffic ones etc, and a really
big thank you to all the guys who were out on the road directing the vehicles down the correct driveways. It’s one of those thankless tasks that needs to be done.
“As has been the case for the last few years, the vehicle marshals were a pretty fair mix of guys from the Historic Commercial Vehicle Club and The Chrysler Restorers Club working together. And they did a great job.
“The biggest thank-you of course goes to the all the people who turned up with their vehicles. Without you there is no display. And for you to have the faith in us that we’d actually be able to get you in and parked up is humbling.
“Thank you all very much. And see you all next year.”
As a third time attendee to this particular event, it was great to witness the camaraderie of those who made the trek and they enjoyed each other’s company and shared the work they’ve been doing on their vehicles for the past 12 months.
There was certainly a great variety of historic vehicles on show, which is exactly what it’s all about. Bring on 2026.
but he knew that 1950 AEC at the front of his family’s workshop ought to be his one day
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Ian Fordyce
The
The first time Ian Fordyce saw the 1950 AEC he was 11-years-old and was convinced it was the biggest truck he’d ever seen.
The truck sat burbling outside his family’s workshop in 1972, no side covers and the engine exposed.
“The engine was ticking over, and the fan was going,” he says. “It would come and get fixed at our workshop occasionally. It had this float on the back with a little case drop on it.”
Eventually he asked the owner if he’d ever sell it. The answer was a no, as he said he was going to restore it himself.
But time has a funny way of circling back. He never forgot about the truck, how could he?
And 20 years later, Ian owned the same AEC he’d been dreaming about since childhood.
Except what rolled into Ian’s hands wasn’t a relic, but a wreck.
“It was falling to pieces, completely,” he says.
“I bought it about 20 to 30 years ago, restored it over a period of five to six years and drove it for 28.”
“Just recently we were on our way down to
Denman for a truck show and unfortunately the engine broke down after all these years of driving 58km/h on the highway.”
When Ian first picked up the rig, it was still running. The cabin – once built from timber – had been left out in the weather so long, it practically dissolved.
“It was really falling apart. The floor was gone, the windows were smashed. We could drive it around the paddock, but it was in a very poor condition,” he says.
What followed was years of restoration, helped along by friends, favours and an unwavering determination to rebuild the truck that had once towered over an elevenyear-old boy.
“We pulled it apart and put it back together with help from lots of people I knew. A friend of mine built me a new cabin, I put in the two chassis rails, the engine, gearbox and diff, fixed up the air brakes and slowly built up the truck to its original shape,” he says.
But this truck has lived more lives than most.
Owned by the Sydney City Council as a
AEC circled back to find Ian
This truck still hauls machinery It’s sides are exposed, with the engine on full display
It took Ian nearly six years to restore
Though great to look at, this rig only goes 58km/h
flushing truck, it was then converted to a body truck in Newcastle, then it transformed into a prime mover that ran Sydney, Brisbane and Sydney, Melbourne, still at 58 kilometres an hour in the 1960s, owned by East Coast Haulage.
It changed hands once more, finally landing in a truck yard in Brisbane, where one of Ian’s customers bought it and used it to cart little bulldozers.
Now, this AEC isn’t used for work, it’s Ian’s toy that he enjoys taking to shows like the Historic Commercial Vehicle Club, the Denman Truck Show and Crawlin' the Hume.
“The truck is quite slow but that’s what makes it different,” he says. “Is you’ll be driving along, and bugs will simply land on the windscreen, and then just walk off the edge and fly away. They don’t go splat anymore.”
“I can’t really take it anywhere far and only drive it during the daytime.”
He refuses to take it out at night. Too risky. Modern vehicles doing 120 kilometres an hour would swallow him whole, and he
doesn’t want to hold anyone up.
It's a six-cylinder diesel engine, 110 horsepower and has a single axle trailer that Ian tows behind it.
“This AEC sounds like a bus, drives like a bus and looks like a bus, but ultimately, it's a truck.”
Ian isn’t your typical truck lover either. He didn’t take over the family transport company or become a truckie after his father, he’s an auto electrician, and spends his time fixing up cars.
“I just saw that AEC sitting at the front of my workshop one day, thought it was huge and wanted to buy it. And I did, 20 years later,” he says.
“And then some years later, I restored it. So, no, I wasn't involved in the truck industry in any way. I'm just a little auto electrician in Sunnybank, in the middle of nowhere.”
The truck he once dreamt about that seemed so out of reach, now lives with him, and what an honour it must have been to bring it back to life.
Now, it’s used as Ian’s toy, one that he shows off at shows
DEALS Resto
KEN’S
Shed
From Gumtree rescues to American oddities, Ken Midson’s shed preserves some of Australia’s rarest restored trucks
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Ken Midson
Ken had always dreamt of owning an Eagle
When Ken Midson retired from his transport business in Tassie, he began collecting and restoring trucks alongside his life long friend, Paul.
Their museum – or shed – once housed up to 18 restored trucks. Today, rising costs and shrinking space has forced them to downsize.
“We’ve had the museum for about 15 to 20 years,” Ken says. “The problem nowadays are sheds are getting dearer and dearer. Too dear to leave your trucks just sitting in them every day,” he says.
“I’m 72, so I don’t want to leave my family with a heap of gear to get rid of.”
But each piece of gear that’s preserved in Ken’s Shed, has a story of its own.
1977 3070B Eagle
It was a random discovery on Gumtree and according to Ken, it was a real, rare find.
“The best information I could find, told me that only six new Eagles ever came to Tasmania,” he says.
“I had always wanted an Eagle, but they
were $2,000 dearer, and back in those days, that was a lot of money, and I didn’t have it.
“Then this 1977 3070B Eagle popped up online so I went to have a look at it, and it was in very bad shape. The cab was almost rusted off, but I still drove it home.”
The once sad, rust-bitten, beaten down unit dove straight into the restoration process.
The cab was replaced, the motor was rebuilt, and the gearbox was changed from a 13 to a nine speed Roadranger.
Ken then painted it up into Eagle colours, carpeted and upholstered the interior and worked it as a tip truck for 10 years in his business.
And the Eagle remains special, not only because it was most likely one out of a handful ever to roll on Tasmanian soil, but because of its other unique features.
“They had chrome tank straps around the fuel tanks, a chrome cap on the end of the air cleaner barrel and a chrome stack up to the cap on top of the air cleaner that was also chrome,” he says.
This 1977 3070B Eagle was Ken's best Gumtree find ever, and while it took years to restore, the result was well worth the effort!
“The Eagles had a different seat configuration so, there weren’t a lot of differences, but there were some.”
“I saw the truck there for sale, so I bought it right there in America. But God it was trouble to get all the way over here,” he says.
Ken discovered the 4070 in America and believes it is the only one in Australia
These slight differences became the blueprint for a restoration Ken poured years into, and when asked how long the process took, he joked, “how long’s a bit of string?”
International 4070B Transtar
While at a truck show in Washington State, America, Ken stumbled upon a 4070B.
It was another truck he had always had his eye on, but never had the chance to restore due to money and time.
“I finally shipped it to Australia, and my son who is a very clever boilermaker and welder, made it into a bogey drive. It was initially a single drive, short prime mover.”
Ken changed it from a left to a right-hand drive, then changed over its bud wheels to spider wheels.
His son-in-law who owns a panel shop then chose the colours and painted it up.
“I believe it’s the only 4070B in Australia, purely because International stopped
importing 4070As into the country in 1978 because they bought Atkinson, and mine is an 80s model,” he says.
“So, unless someone has bought one and got it hidden somewhere, or never restored it, I believe it's the only one in Australia, purely because I've never seen another one. In fact, I've never even heard of another one.”
Making this International, a real oddity.
R700 Mack Super-Liner
Looking around his ‘museum’ of rigs, Ken wasn’t sure which truck to talk about next.
There was a V8 Value-Liner here and a V8 Cruise-Liner there with a Kenworth sitting beside it. He truly has no shortage of trucks.
But after glancing over at his collection once more, he decided to share one last story about his special R700 Mack Super-Liner.
“There was a bloke who walked into Mack trucks in Brisbane in January 1985 and ordered 12 Mack Super-Liners. Then went to Hallmark Trailers (where they make the cattle trailers) and bought 12 sets of three trailers just to cart his own stock,” Ken says.
“Those farms he sold to Robert Holmes a Court, and they are now owned by Gina Rinehart. She owns those stations now.
“We've got one of those trucks, and it's called the Lonesome Driver. It was number eight, and we are currently restoring it.”
Although it’s in its early stages of restoration, Ken says it’s a pretty iconic truck. but some work needs to be done.
“The chassis was crook, so we had to put a new one in,” he says.
“The cab was also pretty sad, so we bought a ‘95 model cab to go on it last winter that's still sitting here in the shed. We bought a new bonnet for the truck and a sleeper bunk that’s also currently sitting in the shed, the gearbox and everything's there as well.
“The only thing we're missing is the V8 motor, but one will turn up somewhere. They’re very, very, very expensive now, even to just rebuild one. If there isn't a lot wrong with it, it's $60,000 to rebuild — it’s a very expensive hobby.”
Many have messaged to ask if this Mack is for sale. But Ken knows he won’t sell it. And why would he when it has the history that it does?
This life wouldn’t have been possible without Ken having always being surrounded by trucks. He grew up in a family of earth-moving and transport, but he dreamt of owning a contractor truck to work at the Hobart quarries.
“My father said I couldn't have a truck and had no chance of even buying one until I'd done an apprenticeship,” he says.
“So, I did as a carpenter, finished my apprenticeship and then I bought a truck at the quarry, it was an International 2050. I've got an exact replica of that truck now.”
And from there, Ken didn’t know it yet, but a lifetime of transport would unfold.
The McNally Kenworth brought a touch of red to this event. Image: Highway Photography
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 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.
MAY 2026
Scenic Rim Truck Show
May 30, 2026 – Jimboomba, QLD
Come along to the Scenic Rim Truck Show, where passion for trucking meets the power of community! Held annually in the breathtaking Jimboomba area, this event is more than just a showcase of incredible trucks—it's a chance to make a difference.
Our show features a stunning array of trucks, from state-of-the-art haulers to timeless classics, each with its own story to tell.
Knights Transport from Kilmore rolled in. Image: Robbie Rose Photography
History out front and on top here. Image: Robbie Rose Photography
Peterbilts and Kenworths, the Kings of the American Shows
Vibrant VEGAS
In a city a long way away, the best of the best in American trucks are brought together for an invitational show with a difference
Words & Images | Warren Aitken
IThe Vegas Large Car INVITATIONAL – yep, the event is by invite only
am going to start with a heartfelt request to forgive me for any typos in this rundown. I am currently squashed into the middle seat of a less than eloquent aeroplane, enduring a 14 hour return journey back to Australia.
I won’t mention the airline but my google review will fill in the gaps later on. For now, I have finished my cliché ‘I’m sorry what was that’ airline meal, washed it down with a plastic cup half full of a very budget bourbon and readjusted my seating to allow for the seat in front of me to encroach on my personal space whilst a 7-year-old watches what seems to be a sponge bob marathon. Forgive me if all of this seems a little on the negative side, I am happy to take the punishment, I am asking for leniency in my typos as my elbows are glued to my sides and my typing is a fraction over the one finger minimum required. I could hold off, take another whisky and pretend I can sleep on a plane, but I have opted instead to try and get this story down whilst the bright lights and booming sounds are still throbbing in my head.
Today I break the cardinal rule, the age-old adage that we all hold dear. Today the advertising slogan that came to define many an adventurous trip, gets overruled. ‘What Happens in Vegas stays in Vegas’ no
longer. I am cramped up, conversing with you to share my tale of a relatively new show on the American Trucks scene. A show that incorporates Big Rigs, fast cars, 15’ hot dogs and the Best Kept Secret in Las Vegas. Welcome to the 3rd running of the Vegas Large Car Invitational.
The event itself is the project child of Sheri Goldstrom and her team. I wish I could get into Sheri’s story and share with you what an avid automotive addict this lady is but to do her story justice I would fill several books, incorporating Sheri and her family.
I do recommend you take the time to look up Sheri, and her parents Art and Shirley Goldstrom. The working-class family are responsible for literally shaping Las Vegas. Over the decades they have been responsible for creating thousands of jobs in sin city, played vital roles in the reshaping of Vegas through its gestation and they now operate a museum that has been dubbed ‘The Best kept Secret in Las Vegas’. I will get to that after the mid-flight movie, for now let’s stick with the show itself.
The Vegas Large Car Invitational is the brainchild of Sheri Goldstrom. It came about because of the avid automotive fan that she is, as well as being a huge supporter of charities and fundraising.
Sheri found herself on the board of Las
Vegas branch of the Speedway Children’s Charity and that led to this event.
“I wanted to do something to different to raise funds for the Speedway Children’s Charity because I know where the money goes. It goes straight to kids; it’s not going to administrative fees and stuff like that. It goes to the kids.” Sheri says.
“We do different shows all year long, we do car shows, we do a golf tournament, we do lots of events, but this is the only truck show. All up I think last year we raised around $500,000.”
What makes this event even more special is exactly what makes this event unique.
Firstly, is the fact the event is tied into the Southport 400. One of two huge Nascar Events held at Las Vegas Motorsport Speedway each year. The Show takes place within the fan zone on the outside of the enormous track. Meaning motorsport fans get the chance to envelope themselves into the trucking world and trucking fans get to envelope themselves in the high-octane world of Nascar.
The second aspect of this show that adds to its prestige is in its name.
The Vegas Large Car INVITATIONAL. The event is by invite only.
“We made it invitational so that each year we will have different trucks. We are limited by space here, so we had 60 trucks invited this year,” Sheri says.
“60 is hard to choose when there were nearly 500 trucks putting their hands up for an invite
“Eventually we’d like to have more but we don’t have the space. The first year we were separated (around the speedway) and it wasn’t as good. We really have to keep them together.”
The lovely matriarch of this show, Sheri Goldstrom has her own ride at the show as well. This beautiful old Peterbilt
Whilst not a massive Nascar fan, the experience was still worth it. The noise is second to none
DEALS Events
One of the Nostalgia Street Rod tour guides, Kellee Reber was on duty manning the merchandise trailer at the Vegas Large Car Invitational
Brad & Jenell Steel with their 2024 Kenworth W900, Purplicious
Another toy from the Nostalgia Street Rods Collection
One of my fantastic tour guides for this trip was 10/4 Magazines very own Trucker Talk Queen, Kim Jaikes. I caught her here gathering content for her story
There are no prizes at this show, just a heartfelt thank you from Sheri and her team for everyone that attends. It is all about the participation
Nathan Lott out of Iowa Falls finishes off the cleaning on his stunning Kenworth before the show begins
This may not be my cup of tea but you definitely can’t say it doesn’t stand out
Sam Iverson pulls out the perfect polishing pose whilst cleaning his 1999 379 Peterbilt
Josh & Eddie Carballo from Fresno take a break from cleaning their 2013 Peterbilt Hay Hauler
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Keeping the event all together means sticking to that limited number, although the exclusivity of that just adds to the distinction of an invite.
coming means parking is measured to the mm (technically in America it’s measured by feet and inches). And selection is the best of the best.
Look who I found over in Vegas, Auswide Transport Solutions' very own Damian Toms. And of course he is back to his best, cleaning a truck
What this also means is that Sheri’s team are very thorough with their selections and extremely precise with their parking.
Knowing which bobtail and combos are
Utah-based Austin Badders with his epically cool 1983 359 Peterbilt named ‘S#$t Show’
“It is a very hard process; we want nothing but the best here,” Sheri says, adding that to her, everyone’s truck is the best.
Sheri’s love of all things big rig shines
from the
Another toy
Nostalgia Street Rods Collection
Dylan Batters, who runs Cabbie Daddy Customs brought along his incredible 2005 W900L Kenworth. Dubbed ‘Fine Wine’
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through in her unabated enthusiasm. Going on to spill in detail some of the amazing rigs I’d already had the pleasure of seeing roll into the event. My host for the weekend, Kim Jaikes of 10/4 magazine also pointed out to me the truck that Sheri herself drove when working behind the wheel.
The entry fee for the show is $250, but with that the entrants are getting nearly $1500 worth of Nascar tickets, entry into the Neon Garage (the inner sanctum of the Las Vegas Speedway) as well as a dinner invite to Sheri’s place on the Saturday night. Again, all the money raised goes to the Speedway Children’s Charity.
“Before anyone had even rocked up this year we had raised $31,500. We are on track to raise the most ever at for this show.”
With entry fees, a charity Auction and a few other fundraisers the team closed the book around $43,000. That’s closer to $70,000 Aussie dollars for the record.
With the how, why and where laid out, let’s get down to the ‘should I book tickets to next year’s event?’ argument. The short answer is yes. With conditions.
The Vegas Large Car Invitational is a fantastic show with an extremely highquality cavalcade of incredible 18-wheelers. But if you are purely a truck nut with no
interest in Nascar or motorsport in general, travelling just for the show, you are limited with entertainment.
The rationed parking area allowed for the show means you don’t get the usual truckers’ merchandise areas, or extended entertainment. They could squeeze more trucks in, but thankfully they choose to keep some distance, which allows for better viewing and appreciation of the stunning semis on site.
If you are a truck loving motorsport fan and have always wanted to experience the grandstand shaking growl of 40-odd V8s dispersing nearly 700hp each around an enclosed oval track with 20deg banked corners, then pack your noise cancelling headphones and book it. Getting to mix the adrenaline of race cars hitting 200mph around a 1.5-mile tri-oval track, with the quiet revelry of an elite level truck show means you might have hit automotive Nirvana with this show.
My advice is, make this show part of an allround Vegas package. The great thing about Las Vegas is it has something for everyone. Definitely factor this amazing show into your plans. Take the opportunity to experience Nascar at the same time. Wander the grounds and see the parochialism of the Nascar fans,
PJ Brink and his driver
Aaron Puterbaugh from South Dakota and their amazing W900s
buy yourself a $35AU 15’ dagwood dog or a $27 Pineapple soft serve ice cream. Actually, cancel those last two. I didn’t understand why so many Nascar fans came accompanied by their own eskies until I went to buy food at a Nascar Event. It makes an airport sandwich look like a bargain meal.
Back to making this show a part of a larger plan. You also need to include Sheri’s family museum. Dubbed ‘The Best kept Secret in Vegas’, you can get guided tours through the multiple buildings and trust me you want this. Everything from the pink slip Marilyn Monroe got when she was fired from Playboy, to jail cells from Las Vegas’s original woman’s prison are on show. There’s one of the original Coca Cola delivery trucks, in yellow and red, as well as a 1976 Peterbilt sporting a 900hp V12 Detroit.
Inside the many sheds you will find a priceless collection of Hot Rods, Rat Rods, custom builds and champion creations. There’s a burnout specced Zamboni (those slow machines used to clean the ice in stadiums). There’s a 1932 Ford Roadster that clocked an incredible 253mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats. Or, my personal favourite from the entire museum, a 1927
Mack Truck ‘Beer Wagon’. This was the custom Hot Rod that even led to Matchbox and Monogram models being made of it.
As the lights are getting turned off in cattle class here, the 7-year-old in the seat beside me is sound asleep with Bluey now adorning the screen. My elbows are starting to cramp, and I’m in need of some whisky and a melatonin to help me sleep. I want to wrap up this wrap up.
In summary… make the Vegas Large Car Invitational a part of your plans.
Stunning trucks, surrounded by stunning trucks, overseen by sensational people – all of whom are so happy to engage and tell you all about their rides. Yes, it is on at the same time as the great race here in Australia, but Sheri informed me on the last day that Nascar have invited her to conduct the show at the summer race as well, meaning you can plan to incorporate March or October in your Vegas holiday now.
Make the Vegas Large Car Invitational part of the perfect Vegas package, especially if you include the Nostalgia Street Rods Museum, as well as getting tickets to the Sphere, some time at the Shelby Centre and trust me when I say, finish up with a visit to Braud’s Funnel Cake Café.
Nighttime is the right time at the Vegas Large Car Invitational
Camp Quality Convoy Perth has done it again, raising over $400,000 for kids facing cancer
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Damo Photography
There were smiles all round!
This convoy plans to get even bigger
If there’s one thing the trucking community knows how to do, it’s help each other out.
There's no better proof of that than the Camp Quality Convoys that roll out around the country .
For Perth specifically, this was their third year in a row where the Camp Quality Convoy event smashed its fundraising target.
“We’ve now raised more than $1 million across the three events,” Camp Quality chief commercial officer Sandie Hall says.
“The success of the Convoy is a testament to the incredible trucking community in Perth.”
This year’s convoy didn’t just deliver smiling kids and happy truck lovers, it
smashed goals. With donations still trickling in, the total amount raised sits at $412,000, well past the $400,000 target, making Convoy Perth one of the most successful community-driven fundraisers in the state.
Korey Lee was a huge contributor to the convoy, raising $49,200, and earning the honouring title of ‘Lead Truck’ as a result.
And what a celebration it was. Along the route, hundreds lined the streets waving signs and cheering as 220 shiny rigs passed through noisily.
While at the Family Festival, more than 1,000 people poured in to enjoy the day and make a positive contribution to the fight against kids facing cancer.
Not only were the sounds of revving truck engines and blaring horns filling Perth with life, but the Go-Karts and music definitely contributed to the noise.
Kids raced from face painting to carnival rides, to a VR truck experience to the Camp Quality mascot ‘Giggle’, while truckies proudly showed off their polished rigs at the Show and Shine.
“All of the truckies put in so much effort to immaculately present their trucks for the event. Some had decorated their trucks with Camp Quality logos, or had local primary schools provide artwork for their trucks,” Sandie says.
Highest Fundraising Community Team: Team Kalynda raised $40.8k Kids Choice Award: Gnalla Enviro (beautiful truck decorated by the students of Leda Primary School)
And they’re off…
This mini truck took visitors for a ride
Check out this
Korey Lee’s Lead Truck raised a whopping $49.2k!
Lead Truck number two - Dan Ross raising $39.5k
It was a great day for it
The whole day was a raging success
rig!
“We had trucks that were historic, vintage and even some themed after famous characters like Wolverine.
“It was an incredibly diverse group, and our participants loved them all.”
For Camp Quality’s team, it was a day that meant everything.
Sandie says Convoy Perth is quite the special day for the team.
“It’s the culmination of months of planning and the incredible efforts of Camp Quality staff and volunteers, who come together to deliver a safe and fun day,” she says.
Humbled by the warmth and generosity of the trucking community, Sandie says it’s a joy to see the kids and families getting involved, and see them smile as the trucks roll by.
“It reminds us why we do what we do,” she says. “Convoy Perth was a day filled with heart, hope and community. It’s just so special to see the WA trucking community come together in support of the kids and families
and watch all the months of their fundraising efforts being celebrated.”
Sandie wants to express her thanks for the support of the participants, sponsors, event delivery partners, volunteers, donors and families that attended.
“This year we also welcomed our first ever Platinum Sponsor for this event, Baaz Heavy Towing,” she says.
“The funds raised will allow Camp Quality to support families across Western Australia impacted by cancer, through our hospital programs, camps, Family Fun Days, Family Getaways and Cancer Education Program.”
From tough, modern workhorses to nostalgic classics, every dollar raised at the Convoy goes toward an important cause.
So, if you haven’t already, bring light to someone’s darkest time, and donate at fundraise.campquality.org.au/ convoy/donate.
There were plenty more activities to get involved with
It was rides galore
The Kids Choice Award was awarded to Gnalla Enviro
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Tens of thousands of dollars were raised at the annual Convoy for Kids Sydney this year, helping sick and disadvantaged children
Words: Tiane Gavillucci
Images: Convoy for Kids
Sydney Facebook page
This event began back in 1992 – and has since evolved immensely
“It’s tough these days,” event president Mark Smallwood says.
“There’s a million charities out there, so to see people spending their time, money and effort to support our cause, means everything.”
Mark’s referring to the Convoy for Kids Sydney which started in 1992, where a group of volunteers put on a fundraiser to help sick children.
Now, 33 years later, the convoy is still rolling, from Sydney Dragway to the Hawkesbury Showground for a family fun day, where funds raised will go toward NETS Ambulance Service and Kidzfix.
Mark says there’s an event on just about every second week at the Hawkesbury Showgrounds, and it’s getting more difficult to fundraise.
But it’s important to keep pushing, as this year the figure raised was around $50,000, which is going toward two life changing organisations.
“NETS isn’t government-funded, so the support we give them really matters,” Mark says.
“They transport critically ill babies and kids between hospitals, so the funding we supply to them is invaluable.”
On the other hand, KidzFix make incredible
Final touches before the it’s show time!
The Hawkesbury Showground had no shortage of big rigs
WFL Transport made a statement
The flags and vibes were high
Aussie Post came along for the ride too
This Kenworth was polished to perfection
T.J. Clark & Sons had their truck’s engine on full display
There was more to see than trucks at the show
Huskies and a military Merc –quite the combination
custom bikes for kids with special needs.
“We pay for these specially made vehicles which can cost up to $10,000 to make,” he says.
“But we also make sure their siblings don’t miss out, so we get them a bike too, so no-one feels left behind. It’s about getting the whole family involved.”
And on October 26, families got right into the joys of the day. About 250 glistening rigs thundered toward the Hawkesbury Showgrounds at Clarendon, with a crowd of 600 either watching on, or joining in on the family fun.
“My favourite moment of the day was watching the trucks arrive at Hawkesbury,” Mark says.
“I suppose that’s what the whole day is about, along with all the people who get out there early enough to watch the trucks arrive, it’s great.”
The truckies meet at five in the morning to begin their drive down to the showground and leave just after lunch. Some even go straight to work, which is a tell-tale sign of their
dedication to helping others and supporting small communities.
From vintage rigs to everyday working trucks, there were tow trucks, rigids and trailers, with everything and anything in between.
At the showgrounds however, there was a different kind of vibe, it wasn’t just a sea of chrome and steel, no, there was chatter, music and the lingering smell of warm goods mixed with diesel.
Kids darted between carnival rides, faces painted and eyes wide with excitement. Local radio filled the air while parents chatted and browsed the food trucks.
After the crowds went home, the trucks rolled away and the volunteers packed up, it’s noted that after more than three decades, Convoy for Kids is a symbol of what the transport community stands for.
It’s an event driven by love and the desire to make a difference.
So come along again next year and help support a cause close to the heart of the transport community.
The day was made for a good cause A staggering $50,000 was raised toward life-changing organisations
DEALS Events
TRUCKS OF
Ulverstone
It was a perfect day for Ulverstone Truck Show in early November, as 40 trucks showed off their polish
Tassie’s truck enthusiasts discovered the perfect opportunity to break out their wash and best polish for the Ulverstone Truck Show.
“The event began about 40 years ago, and it’s been off and on since with a couple of moves here and there,” event organiser Kevin Hind says.
The big Bulldog leading the pack in this line up
This truck’s owner made sure it was shined to perfection
For one glorious Saturday on November 1, the usually quiet coastal town was anything but.
Locals lined the streets, kids waved from fences and proud truckies rolled through with rigs scrubbed to perfection.
“Now it’s incorporated with the Central Coast Thank You Day Show. It’s a charity event where crowds raise money for Beyond Blue and New Mornings.
“The Ulverstone community is really involved, so this show means a lot to us.”
Words: Tiane Gavillucci Images: RIM Media
Awards
Best Kenworth: Scott Murfet, Hardings Group
People’s Choice Kenworth: Jake Rowe – Brown Ramcrop
Resto Kenworth: John Kelly
Fleet Kenworth: Robert Blight, Danny Phillips, Igloo Cold Storage
Best Truck: Dave Wright, Dave Wright – BWT Scania
People’s Choice: Deion Wilson – Mack Super-Liner
Resto: Shane Nichols – Mack Super-Liner
Fleet: Triffett – Mack, Kenworth
Female Rig: Theresa White WBH Kenworth T410
Young Operator: Damian Chillcot – Faneuil Haulage – Kenworth
Smoke was chuffing and horns were blaring at Ulverstone
Thanks to:
• CJD Burnie
• Batchelor North West Civil and Quarries
• Aufyre Creations
• Bonny Energy
• Tas Truck
It’s not every day you come across a truck like this There were some vintage gems
Check out this beast
This gleaming Kenny stole hearts
This mighty Mack V8 easily catches eyes
This Mack is gleaming in green
Barnes Haulage was standing proud
The shine on this tipper was mirror-like
A small Suzuki will carry the day
And this year’s event was certainly one for the books.
“We had an absolutely glorious day, there was a heap of people at the showgrounds, I couldn’t even tell you how many,” Kevin laughs.
“It rained Friday and Sunday but show day on Saturday was beautiful sunshine. I was just rapt.”
Kevin couldn’t have asked for a much better turnout, with about 40 entries coming from all sides of the state, he was a happy man.
And there were absolute masterpieces rumbling into the show, from vintage rigs restored to their prime, to classic workhorses that have seen more road than most, and even brand spanking new Kenworths.
“There was a bit of everything,” Kevin says. “Old school legends and the latest gear, seeing them lined up like that is what makes the day so special.”
As a truck lover, just running the event brings Kevin immense joy.
“I have an absolute ball running this show,” he says.
“I'm a truck driver myself, so I'm passionate about this industry, and I love seeing all the trucks and community coming together.”
And the Ulverstone community clearly agrees, with locals filling the grounds with their families, food stalls and rides to delight themselves with.
There was also some healthy competition, with nine different awards handed out on the day, truckies had plenty to compete for – and be proud of.
And for those that missed the action in the small town of Ulverstone, don’t worry – there’s another chance to catch Kevin and the crew doing what they do best next time.
And a warning to all the Tassie truck lovers, if I were you, I wouldn’t miss it.
With nine different awards handed out on the day, truckies had plenty to compete for
DEALS Data
Light truck sales rebound
The market for new trucks continued to cool, overall, in October, with the heavy duty segment bearing the brunt of market conditions.
Kenworth and Isuzu continue to dominate new truck sales in the Australian market as reported in the October results from the Truck Industry Council’s T-Mark database.
In the heavy duty segment, Kenworth has notched up 2,817 sales for the year to date, followed by Volvo with 1,926 and Isuzu with 1,861.
Heavy Vehicles – Monthly Sales
Medium Vehicles – Monthly Sales
Light Vehicles – Monthly Sales
Isuzu remains Australia’s biggest selling truck brand. Image: Isuzu Australia
In the medium duty segment Isuzu’s 2,809 sales puts it ahead of Hino on 1,851 and Fuso on 750.
When it comes to the light duty trucks the combination of run out and new Isuzu models appear to have hit the mark with consumers, helping the brand to a 52.5 per cent market share and 5,920 sales, well ahead of its nearest rivals, Fuso (1,512) and Hino (1,372).
Overall, Australia’s new truck and heavy van market have fallen with total deliveries of 37,648 vehicles for October 25 down 13.4 per cent on October 2024. Worth noting that October 2024 set an all-time sales record.
Truck Industry Council CEO Tony McMullan says while the new truck market remains sluggish in 2025, the sales decline has stabilised and largely reflects general business activity across Australia.
“The October result continues the downward trend that we have witnessed for the majority of 2025, though the sales decline has stabilised over the past few months,” McMullan says.
“We continued to witness solid sales in the Light Duty truck segment again in October and that was pleasing to see.
“Economic conditions across most business sectors in Australia remain weak and it appears this lack of business confidence is reflecting in new truck and van sales.
“However, the market remains on track for around 45,000 new truck and van sales in 2025 and that would be the third best ever sales result recorded for the heavy vehicle market in Australia.”
Heavy duty
Heavy duty trucks (prime movers) sold in less volume in October, with 1,226 trucks delivered, 301 less trucks than October 2024. All up 11,789 heavy duty trucks have been sold in 2025.
In terms of results for the year so far, Kenworth had 23.9 per cent of the market with 2,817 deliveries, followed by Volvo (1,926), Isuzu (1,861), Scania (934), Mercedes-Benz (705), Fuso (673), Mack (594), Hino (565), DAF (454), UD Trucks (378), IVECO (310), MAN (240), Western Star (136), Freightliner (110), Dennis Eagle 85 and Foton Mobility 1.
Medium duty
The Medium Duty Truck segment performed quite well in 2024, however has struggled since the start of 2025 with the segment posting the second largest percentage loss year-to-date and largest
segment fall in October. Only 487 Medium Duty trucks were sold in the month of October 2025, that represents a significant 30.2 percent (-211 units) drop in sales over October 2024.
Isuzu dominates here with 48.7 per cent of the market for its 2,809 deliveries for the year to the end of October. Hino (1,851), Fuso (750), Hyundai (98), IVECO (68), Mercedes-Benz (55), UD Trucks (50), MAN (43), Volvo (25), DAF (13) and Kenworth (1) round out the delivery table.
Light duty
The shining light in the latest round of results is in the light duty segment. In 2025 Light Duty truck sales have been down from the start of the year, when compared to 2024 results. However, October’s sales volumes have bettered the record-breaking sales for October 2024 by three per cent. In all 1,353 light duty trucks were delivered this October, compared to 1,313 light duty trucks in October 2024.
Isuzu retains 52.5 per cent of the Light Duty segment with 5,920 trucks sold for the year so far. The leaderboard, year-to-date is rounded out with Fuso (1,572), Hino (1,372), IVECO (746), FIAT (614), Renault (423), Mercedes-Benz (255), Hyundai (126), LDV (109), Volkswagen (98), Ford (49) and Foton Mobility (42).
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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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With Isuzu Power Solutions and Mercedes-Benz industrial engines now part of its portfolio, LK Diesel Services has cemented itself as a leader in power generation and engine reliability
It’s been approximately one year since Melbourne’s LK Diesel Services was appointed as an Isuzu Power Solutions authorised dealer, with this milestone having coincided with another signi cant achievement for the business.
Throughout this same timeframe, LK Diesel has also been an authorised dealer of Daimler & Mercedes-Benz industrial diesel engines, covering the supply of new units, maintenance and servicing.
LK Diesel general manager and co-owner Bernard Kuhlwind says the addition of these brands was a result of Deutz AG’s global acquisition, which had direct implications for the Braeside-based business, having been a trusted Deutz Australia dealer for more than four decades.
“A er Deutz AG purchased that division of Mercedes-Benz they became the national distributor, and therefore we became a new dealer of these engines,” he says.
“In time, they will be rebranded but there are still a lot of engines
out there under the Daimler and Mercedes-Benz names and will be for many years.”
Bernard adds the new engines have been well received due to the reputation of the brand.
“Mercedes-Benz is a worldwide brand, not only for the truck and car market but also as an original engine manufacturer,” he says.
“They’ve been building diesel engines ever since they were around and are a well-respected engine for many machine manufacturers. A lot of equipment comes to Australia tted with Mercedes-Benz engines.”
In terms of what machinery
Mercedes-Benz industrial engines power, Bernard says there is a large variety, with everything from underground mining and commercial quarrying equipment to drill rigs, excavators, pumps and even generators.
Having slowly integrated the brand into the business, LK Diesel is spreading the word to potential customers who need reliable engines at the heart of their machinery.
“We are the only Melbourne-based Mercedes-Benz industrial engine dealer and one of only a few in Victoria,” Bernard says.
He adds LK Diesel’s appointment as an Isuzu Power Solutions authorised dealer has “opened up a whole new world” for the business, with the capacity to now supply Isuzu power units and generator sets.
“The generators are still ltering in, but they’re starting to build up and we’re getting more inquiries for them,” Bernard says.
“There are potential power issues in summer, so these generators can be an important asset. They’re big enough to run houses and be a backup power source for small government facilities.
“We’re looking forward to getting our name out there and letting people know that we can assist them with engines and generators. We can assist them from little single cylinders up to large industrial V8s.”
For more information, visit lkdiesel. com.au or call 03 9588 6900.
LK Diesel Services is an authorised dealer of Isuzu Power Solutions and Mercedes-Benz industrial diesel engines.
Left to right: LK Diesel co-owner Bernard Kuhlwind, workshop manager Paul Lewindon and co-owner Mike Kuhlwind. Image: Isuzu Power Solutions
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