Copy Southbound Podcast

We went for a bit of a different format in this episode as we did our recordings at the Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show held in Bathurst last November. Formerly the Bathurst Truck Show, this awesome event was the brainchild of Dane and his mate Dean Campbell and has always been a fantastic event. Dane's tragic passing in 2019 hit the industry hard, especially the tight knit group of enthusiasts who got behind this show and the renaming of it to remember Dane was a fitting tribute to his impeccable presentation and popularity. So we have a few interviews for you from the show, a couple that carry messages of hope and encouragement with their unique stories. Part 1 - Dennis Jones Part 2 - Greg Sly Part 3 - Phil Campbell

Burke's Transport of Bathurst recently shut their doors after 40 years of operation, one of a number of long term family companies to close over the past 12 months. Bruce sits with founder Graeme to discuss the early days and growth of this well-known business along with reasons behind the tough decision to call it a day..... KENWORTH - Kenworth Australia Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood, Isuzu, Kenworth, DAF Trucks For Sale Sydney | Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood (gilbertandroachsydney.com.au) Auto Parts & Spares - Filter Kits, Air Fuel Oil Filters, DPFs, Filter Cleaning, Mann Provent Oil Catch Can Kits - Western Filters Sydney Australia KWS Towing: Sydney, Newcastle Central Coast & South Coast NSW

Brown and Hurley is synonymous with the Kenworth brand and well known amongst the transport industry. We loved being able to interview JJ and to be honest, lucky to pull Bruce away from Jim's collection of vehicles long enough to allow him to say a few words. The rise of the Brown and Hurley group from humble beginnings to the empire it today, will be a story to remember and a legacy that will live on for many years to come.

Vin McKelvey was suggested to us by his close mate Bill Murrowood and we were not disappointed. Vin started off driving for Ed Cameron and, in his early 20's, was king of the road steering some of the first S Model Kenworths in Australia. Now in his early 80's, Vin recalls his days with Mayne Nicholas, driving Grey Ghosts and working in express freight in an interview that left Bruce humbled. TRUCKS - Kenworth Australia Auto Parts & Spares - Filter Kits, Air Fuel Oil Filters, DPFs, Filter Cleaning, Mann Provent Oil Catch Can Kits - Western Filters Sydney Australia Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood, Isuzu, Kenworth, DAF Trucks For Sale Sydney | Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood (gilbertandroachsydney.com.au) KWS Towing: Sydney, Newcastle Central Coast & South Coast NSW

We couldn't think of a better person for our 50th Episode than Bruce's friend, mentor and inspiration Max Keough. Bruce was raised with trucks but his chance meeting with Max back in late 1977 followed by his introduction to Max's brand new 1978 Kenworth some months later has resulted in a lifelong passion and obsession that drives him daily. My ears bleed at times with him talking about his cabover and its restoration so I think it's only fair that you all get punished for a while as well. And brace yourselves, it's a long one........................ TRUCKS - Kenworth Australia Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood, Isuzu, Kenworth, DAF Trucks For Sale Sydney | Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood (gilbertandroachsydney.com.au) Auto Parts & Spares - Filter Kits, Air Fuel Oil Filters, DPFs, Filter Cleaning, Mann Provent Oil Catch Can Kits - Western Filters Sydney Australia KWS Towing: Sydney, Newcastle Central Coast & South Coast NSW

From washing trucks as a kid for Trial Bay Haulage to driving road trains, Peter Spalding has seen plenty over the years. His knowledge of history and his love for the industry shows in this interview and with almost 50 years behind the wheel, Pete sure has plenty to say in regard to the changes in vehicles and the changing face of the whole transport community. This is a great interview. TRUCKS - Kenworth Australia Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood, Isuzu, Kenworth, DAF Trucks For Sale Sydney | Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood (gilbertandroachsydney.com.au) Auto Parts & Spares - Filter Kits, Air Fuel Oil Filters, DPFs, Filter Cleaning, Mann Provent Oil Catch Can Kits - Western Filters Sydney Australia KWS Towing: Sydney, Newcastle Central Coast & South Coast NSW

We received a call from Lewis Bromhall asking if we could interview his 96 year old father Bill to capture his story. Bill started out his driving career with the iconic Noel Buntine and did it tough in the outback driving some of our earliest road train combinations. You'll need to listen carefully as Bill is a bit softly spoken but this story is definitely worth hearing. We were so blessed to be able to capture it. TRUCKS - Kenworth Australia Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood, Isuzu, Kenworth, DAF Trucks For Sale Sydney | Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood (gilbertandroachsydney.com.au) Auto Parts & Spares - Filter Kits, Air Fuel Oil Filters, DPFs, Filter Cleaning, Mann Provent Oil Catch Can Kits - Western Filters Sydney Australia KWS Towing: Sydney, Newcastle Central Coast & South Coast NSW

A chance meeting at the recent Kenworth Klassic saw Bruce being able to line up a meeting with Steve Gronow. Steve's Dad started the legendary TOP Transport which gave a young Steve the opportunity to kick off a driving career to some remote regions with some great mentors driving some nice equipment. TRUCKS - Kenworth Australia Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood, Isuzu, Kenworth, DAF Trucks For Sale Sydney | Gilbert & Roach Huntingwood (gilbertandroachsydney.com.au) Auto Parts & Spares - Filter Kits, Air Fuel Oil Filters, DPFs, Filter Cleaning, Mann Provent Oil Catch Can Kits - Western Filters Sydney Australia KWS Towing: Sydney, Newcastle Central Coast & South Coast NSW

We finally got to sit down with the well-known and highly respected Murada family of Wollongong. Brothers Dave and Kevin, along with Dave's son Jarrod, sat with Bruce to share their story of 40 years in transport, their love of Kenworths and Drake trailers, their highs and lows and their admiration of their family of workers. This is an entertaining discussion which had Bruce laughing from start to finish with a great bunch of blokes.

We get plenty of requests from our New Zealand audience for some interviews with someone from across the ditch and so far Bruce has refused due to needing an interpreter. But, after a bit of persuasion he finally agreed to sit down with Dion Petherick. Dion is an old employee of Bruce's who, like many others, came over to drive the big stuff at a young age and is still doing it in Western Australia. Warning, subtitles may be needed in this episode LOL.....

There are a lot of passionate people in the transport industry but, in our opinion, no one more than Rod Hannifey. As an individual who has lobbied for better conditions for many years, this advocate for safety and the rights of the Australian Truckie had Bruce pulling out his soapbox for them both to share. Lucky no one else was in the room as I doubt they'd have gotten a word in, but I'm sure you'll agree, that this is a great discussion on what we need to move forward as an industry.

Anybody growing up in a family of truck drivers is bound to the industry and Adam Care is no different. But his exposure to big trucks and big horsepower from an early age resulted in an obsession and passion that is second to none and a knowledge of the early days that had Bruce needing a cold shower after the interview. https://linktr.ee/copysouthbound

They say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree and this is evident with these two blokes. After growing up admiring his Dads stunning Aerodyne, Trent inherited Murray's perfection trait and followed in his proud Dads footsteps. Try as they might, the industry simply won't let them leave and they're both still at it and absolutely loving it. @copysouthbound | Linktree

Anyone raised on a farm is almost destined to have an interest in machinery and the Divall Brothers are no exception. With a strong work ethic thanks to their old man, Mick, followed by Andy, moved into trucks, quarrying and earthmoving and developed a highly respected and successful operation with many long term employees. This is their story.......

We often get asked to interview more women in transport so we were really happy when Liesl Hales was recommended to us due to her unique career in the industry. Liesl is very well known and has catalogued plenty of her early days both as a base station operator and as a driver, steering for some iconic names from all over the country and always with a camera in hand.

The Wettenhall name has been synonymous with the transport industry for decades so we were thrilled when Scott Wettenhall, son of founder Moss, approached us to tell the family story. Scott's memory of detail was right up Bruce's alley as he recounted each truck that came into the fleet along with the names of some of their legendary drivers. History at it's absolute finest in this one.......

The Hutchins Family have been well known in transport with a history spanning three generations. They live a breathe the industry and have a love of the freedom and the awesome 80's when anything was acceptable. Gary gives a wholehearted view of a career that took its toll on him, but to this day, he would have no hesitation to do it all again. We hope you guys enjoy this as much as we did.

Bruce was contacted by long time friend and truck enthusiast Tony Kent or TK, about interviewing a Goulburn local, Mac Webster. He said "you'll like him Bruce, he's opinionated, vocal and if you get him going he'll lose his filter before too long......but he's an absolute legend!!! Well TK, you couldn't have been more on the money if you tried.

Well once again, Bruce has gotten excited over an endless photo stream of Eastoe's trucks on social media which lead him to contact Dean Jennion who jumped at the chance to explain his love affair with trucks. Both Dean's father and stepfather were linehaul drivers which, like plenty out there, resulted in a lifelong obsession with trucks and history and a passion for the old days.

With an unusual introduction into the transport industry, Adam Hotchin – Lefty – worked his way through the trials of long distance trucking with the help of some Legends in the game while battling some personal trauma that no young person should endure. Lefty wears his heart on his sleeve and wanted to share his story including his private struggles, purely with the hope that it could possibly help someone in the same situation. Like us, I'm sure that you'll admire his courage

When you think of 70s and 80s on the Hume, rarely a conversation goes by without mentioning Gasoline Alley and the famous, Robbie's in Yass. Along with their well known hospitality, there was also a strong connection transport that involved some legendary companies and a love of Peterbilt Trucks. You'll absolutely love this chat that Bruce has with Robbie Wright.

Lex Gordon is one of those names synonymous with the transport industry and he led, until his passing late last year, a proud family business that spanned over 70 years. Ross Gordon is one of Lex's 13 children and he joined us on Copy Southbound to share some of the stories of this pioneer of country haulage who was renowned for his big equipment and major contributions to the Narrabri district, where his company is still based.

Long time Driver and Owner Driver Magazine contributor Ken Wilkie was recommended to us and what a great discussion it turned out to be. We love anyone who's passionate about road transport but some people go above and beyond to fight for Drivers conditions, protest laws and challenge decisions that have been made against the good of the industry. Ken is one of these people and his support of Rod Hannifey and the initial Truckright Industry Vehicle is just one example of this mans dedication to the industry we love so much.

Being Born in 1940 and raised in outback Western Australia would certainly have had its challenges and produced some tough, hard working people. Brian Brookes is one of those blokes who knew nothing but work, heat and dust but persisted with it right through his working career. Brookesy is retired now but still very proud of his past and loved by many of our mates here at Copy Southbound. I'm sure you'll enjoy his story.

Bruce has always been in awe of Liz Martin ever since he read about her and the National Road Transport Museum Hall of Fame in Alice Springs. She was at the helm of the Hall for 25 years where she managed the day to day running's, volunteers and spectacular reunions that were recognised worldwide. But his admiration for Liz also extends to her single handed research and recording of our outback pioneers history which lead to her cataloguing as many road transport icons as she could. She still does it better than anybody to this day and it's our absolute pleasure to have Liz on Copy Southbound.

Bruce has been waiting to interview Paddy Ward ever since Copy Southbound kicked off and has always sung his praises. A talented businessman, exceptional operator and gifted restorer, Paddy was also known as being one of the nicest people in transport and is still very active in the old truck scene following his retirement some years back. We couldn't have thought of a better way to kick off 2022.

Bob Thompson did his first tow at the age of 16 while his boss was at the pub, not realising that it would lead to him becoming one of NSW's most iconic tow and salvage operators in one of the Blue Mountains most notorious pieces of road. With his wife Marion by his side, this incredibly talented craftsman has helped out countless operators for over 50 years and become a legend of the Mountains!!!

Geoff Rudd, or Ruddy as he's commonly known, kicked off in transport earlier than most of us. With his gentle nature and strong work ethic, he formed some strong bonds and lasting relationships with customers back when a simple hand shake meant more than a written contract. Now in his mid 80's Geoff is now enjoying retirement but happily shared his experiences with us.

When we approached 'Pedro' to come onto Copy Southbound he agreed on one condition, he had to be our last ever interview because quite simply, he's the best there is. With more starts than Phar Lap, Pedro ended up investing in his own truck & trailer and built up Primo Transport into a well oiled machine, as would be expected because, in his own words, he's a Legend......an Icon of the Industry. So sit back and enjoy this interview with one of our finest. Oh and by the way it's not our last episode. We just told him that...

Geoff Cootes, son of Ian Cootes recounts point by point the start of Ian's career, the build up of the business, the vehicles, the people, the sale and the anguish after the collapse of the I.R. Cootes name under different ownership. This is a great yarn about one of Australia's success stories in transport and a lovely tribute to a man that was said to be one of the countries finest employers.

At 94 years of age, Rexxy Shiel is still as sharp as a tac and positive about life after over 60 years driving trucks. This heartfelt interview left Bruce in tears as Rex recounted the ups and downs of life while also recounting his years behind the wheel of some the countries most iconic brands and whilst working for some legends of the industry. But the biggest legend in our eyes was Rex, a true gentleman and a great advocate of finding the positives in life.

You will absolutely love this chat with Glenn Reedman and his famous hero and alter ego 'Leo Wanker'. An absolute Pie-On-Ear of the industry. Just when you think this one is over, it delivers a very special surprise that we are extremely grateful for. Thanks Glenn.

Well Bruce has always referred to Frank Amoroso as a bit of an urban legend but after 5 hours of chatting to him, we now know the legend is true. With his famous Fate Express, Frank was well known on the Highway for many years with his consistently quick trucks. We're sure you'll enjoy his story. Catch us if you can!!!!

In this episode, Bruce sits down to chat with Mick Evans after receiving a tip off from some mutual friends. Mick's a pretty humble person but once the interview gets rolling you'll get to hear stories of some legendary characters in the industry, along with some raw opinions from this likeable bloke. He's like so many others who were simply out there doing their job........and loving every minute of it.

In this episode, Bruce catches up with his good mate, Robbie Marshall, son of Ray Marshall. The iconic Ray Marshall Transport Kenworths ran our highways for almost 30 years and Robbie explains how they got into transport and what led to the beginning of Marshall's, as they were known, with their unique fleet of trucks and drivers. They were immaculate, fast and from an era that will never be revisited. I think you'll enjoy this one.....

At almost 77, Barry 'Sleepy' Grimson is still behind the wheel and preaching transport and praising the industry that he loves has fought for over the years namely as one of the 6 original instigators of the now famous Razorback Blockade in 1979. His account of the blockade is as raw and as passionate as it gets. If you think Bruce wears his heart on his sleeve, wait until you listen to 'Sleepy'......

In this episode we sat down with Callie Sandilands, who is only in her mid 30's but has driven and proven herself in the transport industry through sheer determination and some great opportunities. This truck proud, advocate for heavy vehicles was refreshing to listen to and with her love of old trucks and history of transport, it was a given that these two were going to have a good yarn. And watching a starry eyed Bruce trip and stumble on his words was gold. Keep dreaming mate!!!

In this episode we sat down with a reluctant Vic & Bev Newland, whose first reaction when we arrived, was "before you unpack anything, tell us what the hell this is". It wasn't too long before we could convince this humble couple that they had a story to share and we could sit back and listen in awe as this honest, down to earth bloke gave us an insight into his start in transport and ultimate career on the Australian roads. Vic bought Australia's first ever Kenworth Aerodyne as an independent owner operator before opportunity saw him and Bev move into Road Train work. We hope you enjoy the history of this lovely couple.

A bit of a change in direction in this episode as we headed to Brisbane to talk to several members of the team at the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

In this episode we sit down with Don Turner, owner of the once iconic, Turners Transport. With their unique beige and light green colour scheme, Turners were well known Australia wide for not only their immaculate presentation, but more so for their unmatched family atmosphere and loyalty that saw subcontractors rate them as one of the best companies around to work for. We hope you enjoy Don's story as much as we did.

Well, we thought we should gain a bit of an audience before we introduced you to this bloke. He's been a mate of Bruce's for a long time and we now know that he is NOT an urban myth after all, but a, hilarious, old school truckie, who is full of Dad jokes!!! We're sure you'll love this one.

In this episode we sit with Denis Robertson of Roadmaster Haulage. An accountant, with a passion for trucks, Denis' sideline Business grew into one of the iconic transport companies of the 70's and 80's and is still going strong today. He wears his heart on his sleeve and his commitment to safety and better conditions resulted in some milestones in the Australian Transport Industry that we all benefit from today.

In this episode we speak to Peter Abood, son of Brian Abood of the iconic Abood's Transport from Northmead in Sydney. Well known for their fleet of Foden's and Thorneycroft's, Abood's were just as well known for their ingenuity as they were for their reputation as a fair, honest and hard working family. We hope you enjoy hearing the story of the commonly referred to 'Gentlemen of the Highway'.

Bob McMillan is a familiar name amongst the older generation following a long career as an owner driver up until his early forced retirement last year at age 73. He is what our industry is all about and spent many years lobbying the government for unity in his beloved transport industry. He is proud of his time behind the wheel and is a strong supporter of our transport heritage. This delightful interview with this humble appreciative man is well worth the listen.

In this episode we chat to Dave Lynch, a Sales Rep for Mack Trucks. Dave started his career in the thriving Bus & Coach industry as a Detroit Mechanic working with a Denning agent in Sydney. An avid GM fan, he spent many years driving coaches interstate before buying his own trucks and then moving into New Truck Sales. Enjoy a different perspective on the Transport Industry in this episode.

Chris Lyons of Lyons Transport Mittagong, was born and bred in the Southern Highlands area of NSW and was raised by a Father who did it incredibly tough carting Marble out of Wombeyan Caves. This very emotional interview about Chris's late Father shifts gears halfway through to one hilarious account of Chris's beginnings in transport through to his current tight knit operation. This is one that our sponsors will be proud of as this one-eyed Kenworth fan tells it how it is.

In this episode we sit down with Ian Pendered, from Pentrans Consulting. Ian, or "RiceEater" as he's known, has been predominant in the Australian Transport Industry for many reasons. After spending years of driving in various roles, including running his own transport business, a family tragedy pointed his life in a new direction which resulted in him delving into the world of transport justice where he has fought to change the industry for the better. Enjoy this blunt and raw interview as RiceEater tells his story, as only he can!!!