Local transport industry veteran, Les Williams, has received one of Australia’s highest honours after being recently inducted into the prestigious Shell Rimula Wall of Fame in Alice Springs.
The induction ceremony, held at the National Road Transport Hall of Fame, recognises individuals who have shown a lifelong commitment and made an outstanding contribution to the Australian trucking industry. For those in the transport sector, having their name added to the Wall of Fame is considered the pinnacle of achievement.
Les was born in 1948 in Tallangatta, Victoria, and began driving trucks at 21 years old, hauling logs for Bonchi Bros in East Gippsland.
Throughout the years, he has worked for a number of timber and transport companies, driving AB180 Internationals, 1418 Benz and W-model Kentworths, often carting timber and livestock across Victoria, Melbourne and Sydney.
In the late 1980s, Les purchased his own trucks, including a G89 Volvo, F10 Volvo and T-Line International, hauling timber for up to 10 years on each vehicle.
For almost two decades, he drove for Steven Redenbach, managing timber and fringe van work.
At the age of 65, Les decided to hang up the keys and retire, but a call three months later from Cox Freight saw Les taking a load of veggies to Sydney.
Eleven years later and Les is still driving to Sydney for the same company.
More than just a successful operator, Les has been a mentor to many, generously sharing his vast knowledge and experience with the next generation of drivers.
His induction has been met with great pride within the local community and the wider transport industry.
