Wondai based owner-operator Gary Bochmann, 57, had delivered Army gear from Brisbane to Townsville when Big Rigs caught up for a chat at the Port Access Road.
He was driving a 2018 Western Star 4900 with a Cummins 600hp motor up front and an 18-speed gearbox.
“I have been an owner-driver since 2007 and usually do a run up to Townsville weekly,” he said.
Gary was asked if there is a roadhouse he likes stopping at.
“I do a lot of my meals in the sleeper box but the BP at Clermont is good and they serve great food,” he said.
Gary rates the worst road he travels on as the Gregory Development Highway between Charters Towers and Clermont.
It is also known as the Belyando and has rough edges on many parts of the 380km stretch.
Having said that Gary did say that there was a good rest area along it.
“But overall there are not enough rest areas for truckies,” he added.
Regarding rising fuel prices, Gary had this to say: “It is what it is.”
Outside work, he enjoys spending time with family.
“I have three sons aged six, eight and 11,” he said.
Although Gary doesn’t follow any particular NRL team, he does have an interest in rugby league.
When I yarned to Gary he was wearing a Cronulla Sharks pair of shorts.
“Well I have bought shorts with colours from all the NRL clubs and wear them because they are comfortable,” he said.