The stunning fleet of Goz Dawson's are a fixture on our roads and stand out in their varying green and white livery. Bruce got the chance to sit with a very humbled Goz at his home recently and discovered a man who has a passion for the industry, love of trucks and gratitude toward his life choices that have led to his success. Moreso, his pride on the popularity of his Dolly's Dream combination has had an everlasting impact on his conscience that drives him to give back to the community that has supported him. What a great man, enjoy this like we did.

We first met Johnno Johnson at the Kenworth Klassic when he travelled down from Dalby just over 12 months ago. Apart from being a lovely bloke, we were taken with his beautiful factory Gold Nugget SAR still sporting its 2-Stroke Detroit power. Bruce finally got up to Dalby and sat with Johnno to record his history and check out his past with trucks, trials and tribulations. Humble people like Johnno make Copy Southbound what it is and the passion he still has for the industry is what keeps it alive.

Another installment from our trip to the Mid-America Trucking Show MATS 2025 and we caught up with a couple of great guys, Charles Justice (CJ & John McIntyre from Revolution Energy Services. Two down to earth guys who love the trucking industry and are great advocates for all things trucking. 

We were also able to sit down with some great people from Radio Nemo. Dave Nemo has been the voice of trucking radio through more changes than you'd believe – through AM radio, satellite ratio, and now digital streaming. And through all the changes, he's managed to keep professional drivers of the US awake, alert and hopefully, alive.

Jimmy Mac is a native New Orleanian who has visited 49 states and called 4 of them home. Having worked in law enforcement, education, contracting, and the entertainment industry, he is now proud to be a member of the Radio Nemo family.

Lindsay Lawler is a singer, songwriter, radio host, and Nashville-based entrepreneur. She spent many years as the national spokesperson of the Highway Angel program in the trucking industry, and her song "Highway Angel'' has become an anthem for truck drivers everywhere. She founded the Highway Angel Truckstop Tour and performed free concerts for truckers at truck stops across the country. Last year she released the song "I'm Okay" which People Magazine highlighted in a personal interview with Lindsay, and in addition to countless singles including a duet with 80's star Tiffany. 

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.

From humble beginnings as a landscaper on Sydney's Northern Beaches, Pat used his business sense to begin supplying products around the area and eventually became a household name around the country. His passion for all things mechanical has been absorbed into his business and his green and gold colour scheme and logo has been one of the best marketing themes ever. He is an incredibly busy man and we thank him for taking the time out of his schedule for a brief talk on how he became the self-made success story that he is today.

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.

In this next installment from the Mid-America Trucking Show, we sit down with Raiko Graveran who has one of the most amazing stories you will ever hear. We also sit down with Twins, Carl & Peter Caporal who kept us entertained with their passion for the industry, their banter and amazingly positive attitudes.

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!!! 

Michael Kennedy shares his story of building the family business after his initial single truck purchase.

As a NATROAD Board Member, Avid Historic Truck Restorer and old car enthusiast he has plenty to keep him busy.

His views and opinions are strong when it comes to the industry today and stories from the road on how he got there are priceless.

Brace yourselves for this one!!!!!!!

We met Garth through our mate Mike Minogue and they've been mates for many years. Garth has been around, driven all types of vehicles and is still doing it with an undeniable love for the old days, fast trucks, hot rods and horses, hence the nickname Cowboy. It was great to hear his story and we are sure you'll enjoy it as well.

Geoff started his career in the mid 50's running interstate during the very tough early days with primitive equipment and a strong work ethic.

It's easy to see where Bruce's enthusiasm comes from.

Sunny Warby is one of the Pioneers of the Highway, with a unique twist.

In his early 20's he made a decision to invest in a brand new truck, a B Model Mack. His Father had to convince the Salesman that Sunny could pay it back before the deal was done. And he still owns the Mack today, making him the last surviving Original B Model owner in Australia.

This is his story!!!

Bernie began his career in the glory days of trucking through the 1970's before dabbling into a sideline business of cleaning products. He established what is now the very successful Premier One brand, but a few years ago, with his family steering the business, he went back to the road purely because he could. This is his story...........and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did.

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This episode is an introduction to what we have planned for Copy Southbound.

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We met Mick through our great mate Mike 'HOSS' Minogue and he was more than happy to come on and tell his story. He believes that if people don't tell these stories there will be no history left. He has a great story to tell including his days at CJ Dean and we know you'll enjoy it as much as we did.

Check out the Road to Compliance MASTERCLASS 

https://prodrivecompliance.com.au/etn/road-to-compliance/ 

Dwayne & Janelle Nienberg have one hell of a story and are two of the nicest people we have ever met. It was a pleasure getting to know them both. 

Go check out them out on Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheDirtyOldTrucker 

You'd have to be driving with your eyes closed not to notice a sea of red and white up and down the east coast of Australia. Starting back in the 50's by Tom and Peter Lindsay, Lindsay Brothers had a permanent presence on our highways up until they became Lindsay Australia in 2002. This interview is with Peter Lindsay's daughter Tracey who is heavily invested in keeping the memory of her father and uncle alive by organising reunions for the old drivers and recognising them for who they are – heroes of the highways. A great chat with an enthusiastic advocate for the way it used to be.

The information the industry has needed is finally here with the Road to Compliance MASTERCLASS. Early Bird Tickets are on sale now so jump in before it sells out!

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We did many recordings at the Mid America Truck Show and amongst them was the delightful Miss Flatbed Red and her 'Lost in the 70's' husband Chris Budke. These two live and breath historic trucking and a lot of you will already know Red from her YouTube interviews, that she has been conducting with ATHS Members for quite a few years – they are an incredible couple and we are indebted to the help that they gave us while over there. You'll love their story and undeniable passion.

Peter Baldwin was mentioned many times in Rob Woolley's podcast and Rob was instrumental in ensuring that Bruce captured Peter at his home in Renmark to hear this amazing mans story. Working for some legendary companies in outback Australia, Peter made a name for himself as both a driver and a Manager for companies enduring our harshest travel conditions. Pete's now retired but his recollection of those days were fantastic and a steep learning curve in each one resulted in knowledge and resilience that only experience can create.

The Cleveland Mack Munchers have been iconic amongst the trucking community for many years with Frank Lenzi at the helm for over 45 years. His recent passing led to the closing of the company which was met with tributes flowing for the well respected icon. A number of enthusiasts purchased examples of the old Cleveland fleet including Jarred Sacca, a heavy haulage operator from Mackay in Queensland. Jarred pulled as many strings as he could to get this podcast together with two ex-Cleveland employees, Lance and Arthur, to share some extremely funny memories of their times peddling the Mack Munchers across the Nullarbor.

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Our good mate Paul Biagini lined up this interview with an initially reluctant Andy Soutar and we couldn't be happier. Men like this were legendary on our highways but when you speak with them, they're humble and were simply "Just doing their job". Andy was very well known as an owner operator in his striking black and silver Movin-On styled Kenworth's along with his mandatory pipe hanging from the corner of his mouth. And along with his late wife and soulmate Nadia, he stepped into the box as a spokesman for the industry trying to get better terms and conditions for his mates out there on the road. We can't thank Paul enough for making this happen.

Road to Compliance MASTERCLASS

https://prodrivecompliance.com.au/etn/road-to-compliance/

Bruce has often mentioned his long term mate David Kent who we lost to cancer at the end of 2023. Dave and Deidre Kent were the proprietors of Spencer Gulf Coaches in Port Pirie and a recent catch up with their son, Jared and Dave's best mate, David Walsh, allowed Bruce to sit with them both and reminisce about the awfully talented Dave and the impact he made on not only the bus and coach community but also the historic truck restoration community. Often described as a mechanical genius, Dave was known for his no bullshit approach and hard work ethic that infected all around him, his teaching skills and his never ending help to his mates along with his contributions to both the National Road Transport Hall of Fame and more recently, The Stories of the Road Museum where his legacy will remain for many years to come.

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Nuriootpa Traders was a family owned and operated business for over 40 years and over this time grew to become the largest local transport company operating exclusively between the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale and Adelaide areas. The company was sold to new owners in 2018 and continues to operate in the same capacity however, we managed to catch up with Kym Roocke, son of founders Jim and Denise Roocke, to get the first part of this fantastic story and it's humble beginnings.

www.copysouthbound.com.au 

The stunning Kuchel fleet has graced our roads for many years and was enough to have Bruce approach Jacob to ask him to sit down and tell the story of their long history in transport. Along with the trucking side, the company has also developed a reputation for producing some fine restorations out of their Barossa Valley workshops. The company was founded by Maxwell Kuchel over 50 years ago and is a true family business with all members working in the operation and is in its third generation of extremely talented owners.

www.copysouthbound.com.au