An old head on young shoulders
Much has been said and written about the younger generations who are now infiltrating the trucking industry, in many cases, the infiltration is much to the dismay of the older hands. On the whole, not a lot of good is spoken about these newer members of our fraternity and it is becoming less and less frequent that we come across individuals with the same drive, determination, skill, and a genuine work ethic we experienced when we were younger.
The luck of the Irish?
How often do you arrive at a transport yard to be confronted by a large tank bearing the number plates GBH4U? Well if you ever have to visit Protranz Earthmoving, in Christchurch, that is exactly what you are likely to be greeted by – an Abbot FV433 Self-Propelled Gun. Protranz owner, Gerard Daldry, said he had always wanted to own one of these war horses, and when the opportunity arose to purchase one recently, he acted quickly.
Driving legends - Gary ‘Gazza’ Songhurst
With the recent passing or Gary, I feel is only fitting to remember his legacy and long service to an industry he was so passionate about. A good natured man of humility and humour, Gary will be missed not only by his family and friends but also those he touched during his outstanding career. Rest well ole mate.
Laurent Contractors Ltd -The new face of the industry
When we look at the transport industry and its aging work force it is not hard to realise the problems that this is now presenting and the far-reaching implications it will have. So, when we were asked to visit a transport company run by some keen young men, how could we refuse? Laurent Contractors Ltd, Waharoa is owned and operated by Vaughan and Grayson Laurent alongside their wives Dani and Larissa. These young people epitomise the young face of transport, yet they are also some of the few taking the reins in the punishing world of road transport. Simon Vincent went to the Waikato to find out first hand just what drives these hardworking young people.
50 years behind the wheel
Russell Carnegie started his driving career at Horton, Bidwell & Co Ltd. Fifty years later he is still behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz Actros for Heartland Haulage Ltd. Along the way Russell has tried his hand at many different sectors of the industry, including several stints as an owner driver. Age is seeing him cut back to just four days a week but this sprightly 69 year old still finds time to DJ on weekends as well as to fuss over his special edition Holden Commodore. Simon Vincent sat down with Russell and discussed his lively career recently.