TruckTalk October 2025

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2024

Deniliquin Festival Site, Conargo Rd, Deniliquin from 11am Down Under Modified Tractor Pull from 5pm

President’s welcome

Ten years of the Deniliquin Truck Show and Industry Expo — can you believe it? It feels like only yesterday we held our first event!

Thisyear, our second at the Deniliquin Festival Site, which hosts the Deni Ute Muster, brings with it the addition of a twilight modified tractor pull, more trade sites, and more children’s entertainment. The additional space provides the opportunity to bring more to the table.

I’m proud of what we have produced over the years, the funds and opportunities we’ve given back to support our community, and the support of local businesses enabling us to pull the event together.

In what always feels like a blur, our tiny committee of volunteers has managed to grow the event yearon-year.

And I feel this year will be our biggest, with the addition of a twilight modified tractor pull, which adds a whole new level of interest to the weekend.

What the transport industry brings to our region is immeasurable, and I personally feel it is at times under-recognised for the contribution it makes to the economy of Deniliquin, surrounding districts, and on a national scale.

We constantly hear the old saying, “Without trucks, Australia stops”. This is something that cannot be challenged at any level, as every household, every business, and every farmer relies on the vast network of guys and girls out there, away from families, going the extra mile to keep the country running.

“Without trucks, Australia stops.”

Our Truck Show and Wall of Fame dinner are about celebrating the comradery, the legends, and the industry. It also provides time with family before most head off to work the summer harvest, if they haven’t already hit the harvest trail.

This year, our special guests Sludge and Yogi of Outback Truckers fame will join us and hang around for the weekend’s events.

The dinner has been held at the Deniliquin RSL Club each year, and I thank our host venue for supporting us again.

The past 10 years have seen the Deniliquin Truck Show & Industry Expo give back to our community to the tune of $120,000 plus in cash donations, and by providing space for many community and sporting groups to fundraise for their own causes.

JOURNALIST

“What the transport industry brings to our region is immeasurable.”

LEESA MUIR

Our events also inject valuable revenue into our community. At least 99 per cent of items purchased to make the dinner and show what it is are all purchased locally.

In 2015, the committee made the conscious decision we would support local at all costs, and that remains the sentiment.

Lastly, don’t forget to join us for the last of the activities of our three-event weekend, our memorial service.

Held annually at the Deniliquin and District Wall of Fame at the newly named Legends Rest Area in Davidson St, Deniliquin, our memorial service wraps up the weekend by paying our respects to our transport comrades no longer with us.

Please join us from 11am for a short service and reflection on loved ones lost.

They say it takes a village to raise a child, but we know it certainly does take a village to run a truck show!

Thank you to all our supporters, sponsors, trade and catering site holders, volunteers, and everybody that chips in when needed — we couldn’t do it without you.

~ Leesa Muir, President

Six to be inducted

Six more inductions will be made to the Deniliquin & District Transport Industry Wall of Fame on October 24.

The first event of a three-day Deniliquin Truck Show weekend, the dinner will pay tribute to those people who have worked in and shaped the industry.

Truck Show committee member John Creenaune said the inductees come from a pool of more than 40 nominations received over the life of the event, which celebrates its 10th year in 2025.

“Everyone who has been nominated since the start of the event remains in the pool for judging if they have not already been inducted, and the list grows each year,” Mr Creenaune said.

“We look forward to adding more to the illustrious list on the night.”

The inductees will be announced at a gala dinner at the Deniliquin RSL Club on Friday, October 24.

The evening will also include a goods and services auction, two special guest speakers — Yogi and Sludge from the television show Outback Truckers — and a presentation on the 100th anniversary of Grimison Transport.

About Yogi

Glenn ‘Yogi’ Kendall is one of the most recognisable faces from the hit TV series Outback Truckers.

Known for his larger-than-life personality and his iconic purple-and-white Kenworth rig ‘PJ’, Yogi has become a fan favourite across Australia and beyond. With more than three million kilometres under his belt, the Katanning-based truckie is a thirdgeneration driver who “eats, sleeps and breathes trucks”.

Yogi runs Kendall Trucking Co. out of Western Australia’s Wheatbelt, and his passion for the industry extends far beyond the cab.

A vocal advocate for road safety, Yogi has partnered with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator on campaigns like We All Need Space, which promote safer driving practices and awareness around heavy vehicles.

His commitment and skill behind the wheel were recognised in 2016 when he won the Scania Truck Driver Competition, proving that his trademark style is backed by serious talent.

He’s also been inducted into the Road Transport Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on the industry.

About Sludge

One of Australia’s most beloved truckies, Paul ‘Sludge’ Andrews is known for his laid-back charm and his iconic Peterbilt 379 rig ‘The Phantom’, which has been a fan favourite on the hit TV series Outback Truckers since season three.

Now in its 11th season, the show has made Sludge a household name among trucking enthusiasts across Australia and New Zealand.

Born in Freshford, New Zealand, Sludge grew up in the industry, with his parents founding Andrews Transport.

After initially pursuing motocross, he found his way back to trucking and eventually started his own business and moved to Australia, where he’s been working in the transport industry for more than 30 years.

His journey to television began with a nudge from a friend who nominated him for Outback Truckers.

Though hesitant at first, Sludge quickly became a standout personality, known for his grit, humour, and deep respect for the road.

Trucks, thrills, and tractor pulls

The heart of the Deniliquin Truck Show & Industry Expo beats loudest on Saturday, October 25, with a full day of action, celebration, and community spirit.

As part of the event’s 10-year milestone, Saturday promises something for everyone — from industry professionals to families and truck enthusiasts.

The trucks will roll on site at the famed Deni Ute Muster grounds from 7am for the ever-popular Show ‘n’ Shine.

Trucks of all shapes and sizes compete across 10 categories.

From gleaming new rigs to vintage classics, spectators can admire and cheer for their favourites in:

• Best Truck of the Show

• Best Truck for the 0–3, 4–9, 10–25, 26–39, and 40+ years categories

• Best Rigid Truck

• Best Local Truck

• Best Small Fleet (minimum three trucks)

• Best Non-American

• Muscles Gray Memorial Trophy

While judging takes place, take time to explore the Industry Expo — a vibrant showcase of trade sites featuring innovative products, cutting-edge technology, and networking opportunities with leaders from across the transport sector.

Families are in for a treat with a full lineup of kids’ activities including an animal nursery/petting zoo, craft stations, a sandpit, inflatables, and more.

For just $10, children can grab a wristband and enjoy unlimited access to all attractions between 11am and 4pm.

The excitement ramps up with the Truck Show auction, offering a chance to bid on unique items

ranging from branded industry jackets to weekend getaways, starting about 2pm.

This will be followed by the Show ‘n’ Shine presentations, after which the rip-roaring action of the Modified Tractor Pull will take over the arena.

For the first time, camping will be available at the Truck Show. Sites are $30 each and measure 6m x 8m, making them suitable for a vehicle, caravan,

camper, or swag. Please note there are to be no fires, no BYO, and no pets.

Anyone camping must arrive between 7am and 11am, and every passenger must have a Truck Show ticket.

For more information and to buy your Truck Show tickets, go to denitruckshow.com.au or scan the QR code on the page opposite.

Roaring engines, flying dirt

The Deniliquin Truck Show & Industry Expo is set to roar into action with the return of the Modified Tractor Pull, one of the weekend’s most anticipated spectacles.

The Down Under Modified Tractor Pullers Association will take over the Deni Ute Muster’s famed circle work arena, promising an evening of high-octane thrills and mechanical muscle.

Fresh off an event in Grenfell, the tractor pullers are heading to Deniliquin with 28 modified machines ready to compete across seven explosive events.

Fans can expect to see crowd favourites like Slick as Sled, Dear Diff, and the monstrous 3000-horsepower beast Blown Income 2 tear up the track in a battle of torque, traction, and sheer determination.

The machines will be on display from 4.30pm, with the action running from 5pm to 9pm, giving spectators a chance to get up close with the rigs before they unleash their power.

Truck Show committee member and tractor pull MC John Creenaune said spectators can expect “loud, fast, and non-stop entertainment”.

“There will be plenty of noise and plenty of dust,” he said.

Attendees are encouraged to bring camping chairs and settle in for a night of roaring engines, flying dirt, and fierce competition.

MAIN ENTRY from Conargo Road

TRUCK SHOW TIMETABLE:

7am - Pre-booked camping entry begins at gate 1 (see map). Camping area access closes at 11am.

7am - Truck Show ‘n’ Shine entrants’ entry begins at Moonee Swamp gate. All trucks must arrive by 11am.

7am-11am - Truck Show ‘n’ Shine registrations open. Fleet entries must arrive together.

11am - General admission opens at gate 1, and trade and catering sites open.

11am - Children’s entertainment opens. Closing time is 4pm.

12pm - Truck Show ‘n’ Shine judging commences.

2pm - Goods and services auction in the XXXX Bar.

4pm - Truck Show ‘n’ Shine awards presentation in the XXXX Bar.

5pm - Tractor Pull commences in the circle work arena, and continues under lights until 9pm.

* Times are indicative only, and may be subject to change.

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Tribute to transport legends

Each year, the Deniliquin Truck Show & Industry Expo concludes with a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of Australia’s transport industry with its Sunday Memorial Service.

t is held at 11am at the Davidson Street Rest Area in Deniliquin North — which is recommended to be renamed the Legends Rest Area in honour of its home to the memorial wall.

This solemn event brings together families, friends, and community members to honour those who have dedicated their lives to the road but are no longer with us.

Set beneath the gum trees at the tranquil memorial wall, the service is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by truck drivers and transport workers across the Southern Riverina region.

Paired with Friday’s Wall of Fame dinner and Saturday’s Truck Show & Industry Expo, the events celebrate the past, present, and future of the transport industry.

To apply to have your loved one added to the wall, go to denitruckshow.com.au/ application-forms/

Show hub addresses health needs

Accessing medical care when your life is on the road can be problematic.

But for the second year in a row, the medical fraternity is making itself available to those who wish to take their physical and mental health into their own hands at the Deniliquin Truck Show & Industry Expo.

The Truckies’ Health Hub — this year sponsored by Deniliquin Freighters — will combine local experts and volunteers from both the Deniliquin Local Health Advisory Committee and the Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group.

There will be mini health checks, information on chronic issues covered in the LHAC Health Outcomes campaign, and a few fun things to do in aid of overall wellness.

LHAC and Deni MHAG member Lourene Liebenberg said high blood pressure and high glucose levels were common issues among the more than 80 people who took advantage of the Truck Show Health Hub checks last year.

This will be encompassed in the Health Hub again this year, along with information on other identified health issues associated with the industry — like back problems and mental health — and other chronic issues covered by the Deni LHAC Health Outcomes education campaign.

Mrs Liebenberg said 80 people took advantage of the health checks, and many more who had mini health checks done on the day sought information on the Lifting Health Outcomes banner topics like stroke and heart disease, participated in interactive quizzes, picked up health fact sheets, and had general conversations.

Alternate pathways to medical care will also be shared.

On the Deni MHAG front, the successful #sharetheload campaign launched last year will continue.

“Our messaging around this remains that sharing the load and talking about things that could be a worry is helpful,” Mrs Liebenberg said.

“We do not have to be in crisis to reach out to a helpline. Lines like the Men’s Helpline provide an opportunity to talk about finances, work stress, family stress, and more, and can also follow up with further free counselling.”

“One of the other services is the TIACS helpline, offering eight free counselling sessions to truckies, tradies, farmers, and blue-collar workers. This can be done via telehealth or phone as well — call or text 0488 846 988, or go to www.tiacs.org

• Anyone requiring crisis support can contact Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. Resources and pathways to help are also available at www.denimentalhealth.org.au

Golden Fargo a fan favourite

A fan favourite of collectors, enthusiasts, and at truck shows across the country for many years, the historic 1948 Fargo Golden Fleece tanker sits as a showpiece in a larger Golden Fleece collection at Deniliquin.

Owned by Ampol, the tanker and the collection are on permanent loan to The Depot Historic Vehicle and Memorabilia Collection.

The entire Golden Fleece collection features more than 450 pieces of Australian motoring memorabilia, including the meticulously restored tanker.

It was originally assembled in Adelaide by TJ Richards and Sons as part of the US Chrysler Corporation’s commercial fleet, and underwent comprehensive restoration at Paradise Garage in Sydney.

The restoration involved stripping both the prime mover and the former Golden Fleece fuel tanker to their chassis, with all components either replaced or restored to meet modern roadworthy standards.

“It’s been restored to slightly better than factory,” The Depot manager/curator John Haig said.

“It is certainly the jewel in the collection, and when it was launched it created a lot of buzz.

“Actually, it was the talk of the town even before it arrived in Deni. People were seeing it being

“It’s been restored to slightly better than factory. It is certainly the jewel in the collection, and when it was launched it created a lot of buzz.”

JOHN HAIG, THE DEPOT MANAGER/CURATOR

transported from Sydney to Deniliquin on the back of one of our Purtills trucks, and there was plenty of chatter on the radios as it made its way down the highway.

“It was a regular at truck shows and events before Ampol purchased the collection from Paul Lukes, and then it disappeared for a little bit.

“People are happy to see it again, and there are people who come to Deni simply because they know it’s here.”

The Fargo, which still runs well, features a flathead six-cylinder Dodge Kew motor.

The crash box is only three-speed with a low range. While not tested, its top speed is estimated at about 70–80 km/h.

The Golden Fleece collection also includes a rich variety of historical artefacts, including model cars, funnels, vintage signage, bowsers, fuel tins, road maps, and menus.

These items represent a significant period in Australian motoring history, when Golden Fleece operated across the country from the 1930s to the 1950s.

The Depot is located at 120 End St, Deniliquin, and is open seven days a week. Go to depotdeni.com.au

• Drop by and see the teams from The Depot and Purtill Group at the Deni Truck Show. Included in the display will be a current fuel tanker, the Purtill family’s beloved 1948 OB CAC Bedford Bus called ‘Rosie,’ and other memorabilia and products.

Driver fatigue: a ticking time bomb

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is reminding heavy vehicle drivers to prioritise their work and rest requirements this National Work Safe Month, following 5,257 fatigue-related offences nationally last financial year.

NHVR chief operations officer Paul Salvati said driving while feeling sleepy, physically, or mentally tired is a major safety concern.

“Fatigue is more than feeling tired or drowsy; it’s mental and physical exhaustion that reduces your ability to work safely and effectively.

“Performing any task while fatigued will jeopardise your own safety, and drivers endanger more than their own life when getting behind the wheel.”

In the 2023–2024 financial year, more than 4,900 fatigue offences were recorded nationally, which exceeds more than 10,000 offences in the last two financial years.

“Almost a third of offences recorded last financial year were fatigue-related, which is an unacceptable number,” Mr Salvati stressed.

“If you’re ever unsure of what your work and rest requirements are, always err on the side of caution and rest when needed, because no load is worth your life.

“There’s no such thing as a second chance when it comes to a serious accident or fatality.”

The NHVR website provides guidance on how to comply with work and rest requirements, including counting time, record-keeping, and training in fatigue risk management.

Mr Salvati stressed that any driver feeling pressured to drive while fatigued should call the NHVR reporting line.

“No one should feel unsafe while at work, which is why the Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line is available to report safety issues such as driver fatigue, business practices, and mechanical safety.”

The NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line, 1800 931 785, is available Monday to Friday from 7am to 4.30pm.

National Work Safe Month, held each October, is an annual initiative led by Safe Work Australia to promote health and safety in all workplaces.

For more information, go to www.nhvr.gov.au

“There’s no such thing as a second chance when it comes to a serious accident or fatality.”

PAUL SALVATI, NHVR CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

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Distraction the top contributor of crashes

Due to their weight and size, truck drivers face many unique challenges on the roads.

Speeding, fatigue, non-use of seatbelts, and dangerous loads can lead to crashes, with heavy vehicle drivers and other road users seriously injured or killed.

How other drivers interact with heavy vehicles also plays a role.

Due to their size and length, trucks have larger blind spots than the average car.

This means truck drivers may not be able to see you, and programs like Be Truck Aware and the Australian Trucking Authority’s Safety Truck programs aim to address this.

The latest statistics from the NSW Government’s Towards Zero campaign, released on October 12, indicate that there were 232 fatal crashes involving heavy trucks across Australia between 2020 and 2024.

These resulted in the deaths of 251 people.

Another 4,759 injuries were recorded as a result of heavy truck crashes in the same period, including 1,371 serious injuries.

The National Truck Accident Research Centre’s Major Incident Investigation Report 2025, also released in October, found that inattention/distraction

“A culture of safety is a culture of success.”

LBRCA

remains the single largest contributor to incident rates, representing 17.9 per cent of all crashes in 2024.

The report indicates inadequate following distance accounted for 9.2 per cent of all major incidents and remains a growing concern for the industry.

Inappropriate speed-related incidents have remained consistent, accounting for 8.6 per cent of incidents in 2024.

One of the programs developed last year to try and address some of the road risks was the Heavy Vehicle Rollover Awareness Program (HVRAP) — a national initiative developed by the Livestock, Bulk and Rural Carriers Association (LBRCA).

Funded by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI), the program aims to reduce crashes, injuries, and

fatalities in the road freight industry by fostering a strong culture of safety.

HVRAP is a free, online educational platform designed for all parties in the chain of responsibility. It features two core learning modules: one covering general industry knowledge and another offering load-specific content for sectors such as grain, cotton, and fertiliser transport.

Topics include rollover physics, vehicle design, electronic braking systems, and safe trip planning.

A standout feature of the program is its flexibility. Participants can learn at their own pace, supported by real-life driver experiences, engaging videos, and interactive quizzes.

The HVRAP Toolbox provides additional resources, including safety checklists and regulatory guidance, making it a practical tool for both individuals and organisations.

By equipping drivers, operators, and logistics personnel with the knowledge to identify and mitigate rollover risks, HVRAP is helping to transform safety standards across the industry.

As the LBRCA notes, “a culture of safety is a culture of success.”

To learn more or get started, visit www.hvrap.au