It was a great pleasure to run into our old friend Tara McFadyen around town, at her depot in Dry Creek. Fortunately, Dave Brenssell was able to take a replacement photo for the one that I missed taking (thanks Dave)!
At the time Tara was driving her schmick green UD Flocon.
Tara has been with Brenssell Transport for about 12 months, mainly working with asphalt in her purpose-built rig.
However, she’s been driving trucks for 35 years now and is really enjoying the new job, including all of its variety and challenges – especially after many years doing linehaul for one of the major national outfits on a regular run, and with a very regular and structured work ethic.
Tara is finding the current job to be a welcome time of doing different runs, with time to relax, and generally a great feeling of freedom.
The role also gives her the opportunity to work intra-state and see South Australia from behind the wheel.
“I am so happy at the moment and really like the truck, the boss, the outfit, and the work. I was getting stale and started hating my job but thanks to Dave Brenssell, I have new enthusiasm. I am learning new techniques and stuff I have never done, or haven’t done in 30 years,” Tara said.
“Learning to reverse a Flocon in suburban side streets has been tricky. Thanks to Swanny, Rev, Colin, Dicko, Kayleigh and anyone else from asphalting that I’ve missed. I did an excavator licence as well and sit in one of those when I can.
“This job also gives me time to look after my small holding and my horses and other outside interests and in general get my life back.
“I even have a greenhouse going with fruit, vegetables and flowers. It’s all good now and I don’t have any regrets about taking up driving for a life career.
“Thanks to my early mentors KC, Scooter and others for being a bad influence! I love my truck, my boss is very patient (so I’ll try not to wreck another tarp!), the job in general, and look forward to following the white lines for a while to come.”