For over two decades, Nicky Flynn has played a pivotal role at Martins Stock Haulage’s Dubbo office.
Working from behind the scenes, Nicky has served as administrator for 21 years – and has become known within the company for her hard work, her commitment and the positivity she brings to the office each day.
Nicky officially started with the company on December 1, 2003. “I remember it like it was yesterday,” she told Big Rigs.
As Nicky explained, she had been working for Walker’s Transport in Dubbo for a short period, when the company was acquired by Martins Stock Haulage. “At that stage, I didn’t know if they’d open a base at Dubbo, so I didn’t know if I’d retain my job.
“They didn’t really have a position for me but I was blessed that Martins took me on. They could have easily not taken on any of the staff members, but they did.”
Without an established depot in Dubbo at the time, Nicky would work at the office in Dubbo on Monday and Tuesday; then travel some three hours away to Scone each Tuesday night, so she could work from there from Wednesday to Friday.
That continued for around 18 months, until Martins opened up its Dubbo depot.
“When you start any new position, you don’t knock anything back. During that time, it was lovely, because they got to know me and see my work ethics,” added Nicky.
She also revealed that she hadn’t worked in transport until just prior to joining Martins. “I didn’t even know what a B-double or a road train was in the beginning,” she laughed.
“In my role now, I see these trucks come past my window all the time, and I still can’t tell the difference between a T909 and T610. But I can tell the difference between a single, a B-double and a road train!”
While there are only six drivers based out of Dubbo, the depot has become a hub for the company’s drivers to stop at as they make their way to and from their destinations.
“Dubbo is central, so our drivers call down here if they’re passing through,” added Nicky. “We have shower and kitchen facilities, and fuel on site. Our drivers can come and freshen up and have something to eat, fuel up and even park here overnight to rest up. Most of the drivers who stop by are based around New South Wales but we also get some of our drivers coming down from Queensland too.”
Nicky is one of just two full time staff manning the Dubbo office, working alongside her colleague Eddie, who has been with the business for 38 years.
“My role is definitely in admin but I help the drivers out if they need anything too. Whether it’s groundwork or heading out to buy coffee and sugar,” she said.
“Truck drivers have a difficult job so we’re here to help them however we can.”
Being family owned and operated, Nicky says Martins is a really great company to work for.
“You don’t have people looking over your shoulder and they are very understanding when it comes to family. This is a company that still has family values.
“When you have an elderly parent who is 93 years old, that’s a real blessing. It takes a lot of the stress off you too because you know if anything happens and you need to duck off, they’re very understanding.
“I work with a great bunch of people and management. When they’re easy and approachable to deal with, it makes your day so much easier.”
Chief Financial Officer at Martins Stock Haulage, Melanie White, added that Nicky is a pivotal part of the company’s team.
“Over the past two decades, Nicky has exemplified dedication, hard work, and a commitment to Martins which has greatly contributed to our success,” commented Melanie.
“Nicky is loved by many and highly regarded by all, especially our drivers who pass through the Dubbo depot. Her positive impact is felt throughout our organisation.”
As Melanie continued, “We are incredibly grateful for Nicky’s contributions and look forward to many more years of collaboration and achievement. Congratulations on this significant milestone!”