In 2025, I’d like to see improved access to education and training for up-and-coming drivers, as well as ongoing training and education for existing drivers.
I personally know there are some really good training organisations out there that people just don’t know about. If we can raise awareness and direct traffic towards those places so that people are trained well from the beginning, then that will benefit the industry as a whole.
The general public also needs to know more about truck drivers and what it’s like to be a driver of different equipment. Often, I hear people saying I didn’t know this or didn’t know that.
It’s about bridging the gap between all road users and truck drivers – and spreading awareness of how to share the road together. People don’t know what they don’t know. If we could have more empathy for each other and respect each other on the road, that’s always going to be a beneficial thing.
I’m also hoping to get out to more schools and talk to all age groups, from primary through to Tafe, aiming to inspire and nurture the upcoming generation that’s coming through and just spread some positivity.
I think where the industry can do better is looking after our drivers. One way of doing that is by providing improved facilities at truck stops, healthier food options and more rest areas with clean and well-maintained facilities.
I’ve done a lot of travel over the last year, and the feedback I often hear is that the showers or toilet facilities for truckies can leave a lot to be desired. And if you’re not prepared, there aren’t many places to pull over and get good food or a coffee.
I think if we can provide better facilities for truckies on the road, that would be a huge step in the right direction for the industry.
I’ve had so much diversity in my year. The connections I’ve made within the industry and what we’re building going forward into 2025 is very exciting.
In this sort of job, it’s not always easy and it’s not always a smooth road, but I don’t dwell on the negatives. I find solutions to make it better and I learn from the challenges I face.
- Casuarina Smith is a truck driver at Merkanooka Haulage and the face behind popular Instagram page Trucking with CJ. This story is part of our 2025 New Year Wish Lists feature, in the January 17 issue of Big Rigs.