Like many in the industry, Daryl Redden, owner-operator of Deniliquin-based DJR Tilt Tray & Transport, didn’t start driving trucks straight out of school.
In fact, he didn’t get his truck license until he was 40 years old, proving it’s never too late to chase something you’re passionate about.
Daryl’s journey into transport began while helping a mate on the farm. Spending time around heavy machinery quickly sparked an interest that soon turned into a career. Six years later, he’s built his own transport business and hasn’t looked back.
Operating an Iveco Eurocargo 150E28, Daryl’s work is incredibly diverse.
“If it fits, it ships,” he laughs.
From wheeled and tracked machinery to 20-foot containers, transportable buildings, agricultural equipment and palletized goods, no two days are ever the same.
When asked what he enjoys most about the job, Daryl’s answer was simple.
“It’s an office with a fantastic view.”
The freedom of the road, travelling with his son or partner, and doing something he genuinely loves are what keep him motivated.
“You’ve got to love what you do because some days you don’t,” he says with a grin.
Like many owner-drivers, Daryl says the toughest parts of the industry are time away from home on larger jobs, deteriorating road conditions and ever-increasing fuel prices.
“Road conditions are dangerous in a lot of places, and fuel prices just keep climbing. The knock-on effect is everything else goes up too. It’s a vicious cycle.”
While he doesn’t have a favourite highway, Daryl enjoys routes that offer good scenery and particularly likes mountain roads.
“They’re challenging in the old girl, but that’s part of the fun.”
When it’s time for a break, you’ll often find him pulling into Purtill’s Ampol in Deniliquin for what he describes as an awesome feed, or stopping at the Yass Service Centre, which he rates highly for both facilities and food options.
As for why he chose to run his own business?
“Earning a dollar and not working for someone else.”
It’s a mindset shared by many small operators who value independence and backing themselves.
Looking ahead, Daryl hopes to continue growing DJR Tilt Tray & Transport, with plans to upgrade trucks and expand the business in the future.
His advice for anyone thinking about becoming an owner-driver is straightforward:
“Just do it. Will it be scary? Yes. But it’ll be worth it. Better to have a crack and fail than spend your life wondering what could have been.”
When he’s not behind the wheel, Daryl enjoys spending time with mates, firing up the BBQ and enjoying a cold beer and good company.
It’s this down-to-earth attitude, combined with a willingness to have a go, that’s helping build a successful small transport business in regional Australia.