Victorian Truck Drivers’ Memorial rises above controversy

The word had spread that this year’s Victorian Truck Drivers’ Memorial on the King’s Birthday weekend would not be preceded by a convoy from Yarck into Alexandra, as has become the popular norm over the past few years.

This writer received more than one piece of correspondence expressing disappointment and indeed, anger that it was not going ahead.

A phone call to the memorial organisers assured me that this was not of their doing so the origin of this ‘misinformation’ remains clouded in mystery.

It eventuated that those who’d heard the missive, in the main disregarded it – including the Yarck CFA who’d turned up as usual to provide brekkie and coffee.

After all, the roads are public and who is to tell a truck driver that he cannot place a banner or dedication in whatever form upon his truck and drive it to wherever he wishes. And so they did.

Next year we hope the numbers in the convoy grow as a mark of respect to loved ones, the trucking industry and the memorial.

Proceedings were opened by Murrindindi Mayor, Cr Damien Gallagher followed with an excellent address by Peter Anderson, CEO of Victorian Transport Association.

“This is a place that holds a deep meaning for many,” said Peter, acknowledging the families and loved ones of those in attendance.

“A place of reflection, remembrance and recognition. A place where we honour those who have given so much to the transport industry.

“Twenty four names have been added to the wall. Some reflect lives lost recently while others reflect long careers that have now come to an end. Every name represents a person, a story, family and a life that mattered.

“To you, the families who have come here from across Victoria, I acknowledge the effort taken and the strength to stand here in honouring your loved ones. We stand with you in remembering them.”

There followed speeches from two brave ladies whose families have been touched.

Khristine Abaya spoke of Ron Bunker on behalf of the family.

Firstly, came Khristine Abaya, remembering Ron Bunker.

“Some of us here are all incredibly fortunate to have known Ron. Whether as a friend, family member, mentor, or through his generosity to others, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met, through his warmth, his integrity and his quiet determination to make things better for those around him.

“Ron’s journey in transport began in 1959 at just 17, driving through the harsh outback South Australia, an experience that shaped his resilience and character. Working alongside family, he helped build the foundations of Bunker Freight Lines, later expanding the business nationally from Melbourne through Adelaide, Sydney, Alice Springs and Brisbane, all the while proudly preserving the company’s name and values throughout its growth.

“Ron was a true pioneer. He was among the early operators of road trains into Western Australia, helping shape the future of transport in this country. His vision, innovation and deep understanding of the industry set him apart. But it was his character that defined him.

“He was a tireless supporter of the road transport industry, giving not only financially, but also of his time, his voice and his energy. He believed in progress, in safer roads and in standing up for drivers. He supported industry associations and pushed for meaningful regulatory change, always with the greater good in mind.

“In 2004, Ron was inducted into the Shell Rimula Hall of Fame, an honour that reflects the respect he earned across the industry. But beyond all the achievements, Ron was above all, a driver’s person.

“He understood the road because he had lived it. He listened, and cared. He showed respect to every driver, every staff member at Bunker Freight Lines and their families, and every person who helped build the business. He knew that success wasn’t just measured in growth but in people.

“Ron passed away in October 2024, leaving behind a legacy built on loyalty, respect and a lifelong commitment to the trucking industry. Today as we remember Ron, we don’t just reflect on what he achieved, we respect how he made people feel.”

Then followed Kylie Gordon whose son, Braedyn passed at just 24.

“Today we are here to honour and remember my son, Braedyn Lindsay Patric Gordon – a.k.a. Quaks.

“Braedo was our only son. He had only just celebrated his 24th birthday a week prior to his passing. Braedo was involved in an horrific collision, a driver failing to adhere to a stop sign, resulting in their vehicle colliding into the front steer axle of Braedo’s truck.

“The truck veered to the left leaving the road and colliding with a tree where he died instantly from the impact. The driver that caused Braedyn’s death walked away with minimal injuries. Braedyn left behind myself, his father David, his three sisters, Teagan, Kelsea, Tahlia, and many family and friends.”

Kylie went on to talk of Braedyn’s involvement with the Tongala Football/Netball club and other sporting bodies where he had deep involvement and made many long-lasting friendships. A non-drinker and a non-smoker he was always the one to make sure his friends and family got home safe after a night out.

“Braedo started working at the young age of 12, helping around Julian Brennes farm. Once old enough he graduated to a school-based apprenticeship. He had a great love for cattle and big machinery which helped lead him to his final career choice of transport.

“Like most keen young blokes, he started applying for jobs before he even had his license. One of those was Rich River Trading and Transport who patiently waited for him to get his license and then offered him a position. Hedley and Jon were good employers to Braedyn, which he truly appreciated.

“He loved his job and had a good group of mentors who taught him well, illustrated when he graduated his license to HC and then to MC, passing both tests with ease.

“Braedyn had to wait until he was 25 before he could transition into the bigger trucks. He was very keen to progress and felt that time was moving too slow. It was his dream to drive larger trucks but sadly those dreams never happened. His life was shortened by no fault of his but rather by just doing what he loved.

“It is a struggle every day not having Braedyn here with us. We just wish we could see him, talk to him, hold him and never let go. We are so proud to honour Braedyn here today. Forever in our hearts.”

As always, the memorial was an outpouring of emotion and memories, mixed with the camaraderie that is so prevalent in the trucking industry.

It is places such as the Victorian Truck Drivers’ Memorial that draw the industry together in a way that few other events can.

Those wishing to have their loved one commemorated on the Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial Wall can go to the official website here.

There is no cost involved.