Fantastic explanation of how we start working figuring out what we want to do, I am a sailor/captain, and started the same way. Passion for what we do, absolutely Alpha and Omega
Thanks Johnno for your "start to now" journey. While listening to your story about not being taught correctly how to chain, then asking the other float driver questions, I recalled one of my early memories about folding tarps. I was working in the yard of a small trucking company that my brother was driving for. There were a lot of tarps just scrunched up at the back of the shed. My job initially was to clean up the yard. I asked how to fold them up whenever I had some spare time, so that the drivers could use them when needed. The boss wouldn't show me. The drivers had no time to show me, so I took it upon myself to fold them up the best I knew how. These were 40 foot trailer tarps. I dragged each tarp out into an open dirt space one by one, there were about 4, and it was a windy day. Weights had to be placed/moved on corners to hold it square. With each progressive fold, I would sweep off all loose dirt. It took a very long time for the first one. After folding each, I rolled it onto a pallet and stored it in an accessible part of the shed using the 5 tonne forklift. It looked neat and tidy, and I was happy. That way, the next time the drivers needed a tarp, ready, done. I used to help them tie down loads with chains and ropes, though never tie down tarps, so I never saw how they unrolled them. Well one day a driver needed a tarp. Big Oops. I folded all the tarps the same way I fold my sheets. This driver cursed me when the tarp did not unroll the way he expected it... I was in the yard helping him on the forklift this say, so he now HAD to show me. From on top of the general freight, he just rolled the blob of a mess of tarp over the side and laneded on to the ground. He said he had wasted enough time, from other delays. Together, in an open space, we unfolded this tarp, all the while his cursing became more and more. My only focus was, great I'm learning the correct way to fold tarps... yaaeee! Finally folded correctly, and on the pallet facing the way he wanted it, I jumped on the forklift, lifted the pallet up where wanted it mid load, he positioned then unrolled the tarp, THE RIGHT WAY this time. I was ecstatic. I also learnt that day how to tie down tarps using all those attached ropes. In my favour, I had replaced and respliced all the frayed ropes, much to the delight of the irate driver. He had a better respect for me from then on. I was always looking for ways to learn more by asking questions, and in doing so helping the drivers to shorten their load/unload/reload times.
@jerbear7952 Yes it was a lack of support from the boss and the drivers, however it was my initiative and incentive to help the drivers, is where I learnt the most. I loved working in the yard, clearing it up so the truck drivers could have plenty of clear area to turn the rigs around with the trailers for unloading and loading. Late at night, I helped to repair and replace broken trailer plugs the trailers left by other drivers, also problem solved the combo lights that had broken wires. All round I learned a lot and the drivers were the one who appreciated my work. So, to that end I was successful. We both moved on from that boss. Our new employers could see our skills. We were taught more in the next job. This was back when there was no such thing as "training". My brothers test for his first truck driving job ... (with no licence) If he could drive the truck out the gate, around the block and park it in the yard, he had a job. He did it, and over the time, improved, just as I did , to learn from his fellow drivers. He has gone on to become a successful road train operator, now a valued employee as an MC Instructor. I left the trucking industry and went on to other endeavours. I still maintain a healthy respect for the tireless work of truck drivers whether local or interstate.
I’m currently working as a MR truck driver, got mr license in synchro hr in auto. All the companies I’ve seen advertising for on the job websites hardly say road ranger. I’m 20 making 1.4-2k per week 50-60 hrs on night shift, been working towards getting my MC license with a road ranger hopefully to have no conditions on heavy vehicles. Great video to learn from, would love to see more of this.
Unreal Jonno.. Everyone's got their own story mate hey!! I told my dad at 3yrs old I was going to drive trucks for him lol.. He said not unless you have a trade behind you.. So I become a Heavy vehicle mechanic but have always been around heavy machinery.. I went straight from a car license to a Hc which I had for around 6yrs b4 getting my bdouble licence.. I had bdouble flattops bcs know one else wanted them.. I loved it mate,I run out of Nqx Wollongong to Nth Queensland weekly for about 10yrs.. Then had my own truck for a few yrs which was awesome.. Then in 2012 5 children later my marriage started falling apart so then I stayed at home.. Now a single father with the 5 children and I'd circumstances were different I'd be back out on the hwy chasing that dream.. Great content Jonno hope you are doing well mate 👍 👌
Wow Scott. What an awesome story you got too. Not so much about your marriage but the experience. Love that your went for flat tops. That's the easy to go. Lucky my 10 year old son doesn't want to drive trucks. He wants to be a airline pilot. I guess it's very similar though. Being away all the time. Are you kids adults now?
@RoadTrainAdventures 21,20 high dependency (scoliosis,epilepsy,autism and cerebral palsy),16,13 all girls and my son who's the youngest is 11.. Wouldnr change my life at all Jonno.. It's the card's I've been dealt which can be very trying/testing sometimes.. I do more hrs now then what I ever did on the hwy mate.. It was always the lifestyle I loved driving truck's mate especially doing Mackay,Townsville every week.. Them Nth Queensland blokes are awesome fellas.. My mum wanted me to be an Architect bcs I was excellent at tech drawing but I wasn't interested,all I wanted to do was drive trucks for my father which was hard work bcs even now at 74 he's very old school.. That's awesome about your son mate..
Loved the camera position on that Johno. You have done well to be a truck driver.I think your positive attitude is your great point.Going into j9bs with a whingy winey attitide won't cut it. Thats what I would love too. The solitude and wide open spaces. Some peeps can't handle the loneliness. Thanks for sharing your story. Every one loves to hear your side of life. 🤗😎
johno in all the year i worked on trucks and semis i learnt never be scared to ask if u dont no something if ur not sure about something always ask thats how i learnt wen i was doing trucks from old bedford trucks big kenworth and mack i miss working on trucks thats why i love watching ur shows cause u r a good teacher and people learn from u wen they watch ur videos your a good bloke johno
For sure Jarrod. I've seen some young people have their girlfriend with them as they drive around Australia. That might be cool too, until they drive you crazy. Ha ha
Yep when you’re driving trucks warehouses Bitchin office politics you completely away from all that stuff that’s why I like it that’s what’s good about driving trucks There are some downsides time limits call be in places pretty tired at times but you more or less your own boss
Great story and video. I was an industrial sparky and found if you took on the hard/shit jobs now one else wanted to do, you could master them and everyone would leave you alone. I would use any and every resource I could find to learn about the task. The best part was the hard jobs become easy, and the others never knew. I did this during my career (15+ occupations) and it never failed me, I'm now retired. My only regret is I never did what you are doing, I loved driving and still do. I did drive Trans Perth busses for my midlife crisis for a few years and that was a hoot, all about having a good attitude. Thanks for the great videos.
I like your videos mate Thanks for all of them From a young french man making his dream come true by driving road trains in WA sitting behind the steering of a Kenworth 🇦🇺 🤙
I'm in Perth and about to turn 48. Just got my HR-B. Kids are all grown up and I'm single. Love to travel so keen to get some experience while I wait out the 12 month period until I can get my MC, then hit the road. It's hard nowadays to get a job though I find because everyone wants someone with experience behind the wheel. I'm going to keep at it though. Something will come up. Cheers for the info mate.
I had my HR-B first too and only got MC when I went for my MC. Yes you'll have to find a company who can take you on. Just apply to companies, maybe even in person so they can see who you are.
Thanks for letting us know how you started and how you enjoy driving. Like you I love driving and always gave the boss a fair go as if I was working for myself. I had a HC license for years but only did some casual driving until the kids were older and I decided to get into it full time. So I drove semi's and big rigids for 20 years until I retired, I loved it and felt like I was a paid tourist seeing places and being my own boss once I left the depot and the sence of freedom I experienced. In a way I regret not going full time earlier but the kids would have been younger and I wonted to be there for them. It's a choice I made and others have chosen differently. Thanks for your videos, they get me back out on the road again. Stay safe.😎
Thanks Dennis. They say that when you're on your death bed you mainly regret the things you didn't do over the things you did so. You still get to go bush from now on so you covered both angles.
Great story on how you got going. Similar experience here. My first semi job I was required to make my own ropes for carting cardboard. No idea how to even start. One of the other two drivers showed me how to properly make the ends up and off I went. Not nylon ropes where you melt the end and bang a steel ring on, properly spliced ones.
I did 2 years on a Road Train Car Carrier , 2 trailers Brisbane to Darwin 1981/82, how I got the job was I was driving for RoadAir out of Wagga Wagga, C1800 Inter, after I left there went to Flemings Hardware/Transport, in Wagga Wagga, CK40 UD , anyhow the transport manager of Road Air had moved to Brisbane and set up a Car Carrier Road Train, ( I started trucking in a Car Carrier 1973 Adelaide/Sydney) he pphoned me and asked I would like to drive his, so I went up to Brisbane and went on a trip with him to Darwin, loved it, went back to Wagga Wagga and put the house on the market and moved to Boronia Heights. now back then the licence I had was I think an A Class , drive anything except a Motor Bike or Bus. yeh I miss it still now retired ...still bleed diesel when I stab a finger with a screw driver. do a bit of Pilot work now and then , got to get out on the road . That's how I got to call in Toowoomba and seen Terry.
Well I am way too old to be a trucker. However for years it has been my dream to learn to drive a Peter. I have been admin for the same birthday and Christmas present. Truck driving lessons. Well I never got them. So dang it I have given up asking and am treating myself to lessons for my 65th birthday. So I start next May. I have to admit I am looking forward to it. I enjoy driving ( my van) long distances are fine. I don't intend to become a trucker at this late stage but I do intend to fulfill a dream. Meanwhile I am enjoying your channel.
Oh Julian. You'll love driving something bigger. Even if it's just for the lessons. I remember sitting in 5 to truck that had air brakes. I thought it was so awesome.
Johno it took me longer to read all the comments than watch the video 🤣😂🤣 Great video mate, I've got a 909 and older 4x8 Drake swingwing which I am painting now and hopefully plan to work my way around Aus. and enjoy the rest of my working life
It used to be a 'C' class lic' in Qld before it was HR. In those days part of the test was change a tyre & bleed a diesel engine. You could do that 'C' class 12 months after holding a car lic'. After holding a 'C' (HR) for 12 months you could go get your 'E' (HC) class & 12 months after that E4 or E6 (MC). So by age 20 you had a road train lic'. Be careful asking what a Ring Feeder is ,i got told it was a sex toy! Good Show.
Great to hear how you became so proficient and your profession and it really is a profession. I started in transport at 18 driving a 5 ton AS160 Inter and at our company you were taught to drive everything so I eventually progressed to Crane operating but would also drive floats, semi but only Brisbane local . I eventually decided I wanted to operate Cranes full time and i drove Frannas right up until I retired at 60.. 2 knee replacements made me reconsider continuing work. That was 10 years ago and now I build Computers on the side and drive Khanacross cars on weekends for a bit of excitement. lol about the reverse to you lol.. btw if you are ever in QLD Brisbane would be happy to buy you a coffee and have a chat.
David Hunn This explains how you were so confident about ripping the dashboard to bits a few videos back when the aircon packed up on your way north a few videos ago. I thought at the time that you probably had a trade or something behind you.
I also did motorbike courier work for 2 years after I left school in Sydney in the late 80s summers were awesome, winters dreadful! Thanks for another great vid great to hear more of your story, I’ve always been around trucks as a kid and the open road and loved the idea of life on the road but never ventured into driving for a living, maybe one day? 👍
Wow riding around Sydney would be really different. I had a DT200 etch was the best bike. Could mount the curb and go up and down stairs easily. Oh the fun we had doing that.
That was a great share Johnno , really enjoyed listening to your progression and what you enjoyed driving, must be very hard for you and your family not being home every other night, take care and thanks again for the video 👍👏
Thanks Darrel. Lucky for me my wife is a very independent woman so it doesn't worry her how long I'm away got. My kids do wish I'd be home more though.
It was lovely to hear your story at the end. I'm in the UK and have my truck licence (hgv-class c), but it's a totally different job over here. Crowded roads and lots of regulations make the job too difficult for the pay. Anyhow, great videos, mate, and all the best to yourself and your family.
Very interesting dialogue there Johnno, and some sound advice too! Back in the early 80's when I started driving, we had to sleep across the seats, no night heater..... Today's trucks are really great, a home from home! Also, great advice about asking questions, never "guess" that you're doing the right thing ;-) Looking forward to the next vid. Stay safe 🇬🇧
Im 23 in a HR (i wish i was in it more then i am) one of these days ill jump HC then MC and hit the road. done a couple interstate and intrastate trips in a HR and i was absolutely loving it, as you said with volvo bunk its tight but ive had the time of my life. Cheers for the videos🤙
Awesome. It's great to have you along. Remember you can go straight from HR to MC if you've had your car license for longer than 2 years or was it having your HR for 2 years.
Hi, I live in Sweden and will be moving to Adelaide in December. Right now I work in the mining industry driving trucks and other machines. I'm a little nervous about my language and traffic culture. i never drove road ranger trucks, Mack, Kenworth or peterbilt or left hand traffic trucks. but i like driving trucks. I hope to find a job there. thanks for this video.
Great video, it's good hearing someone else's story and how they got into the industry. I really wish I could find an interest in interstate. I'm single and 27 with a full MC license, but for the life of me I just can't seem to find any interest in doing interstate work. I live in Victoria and I haven't left the state once, yet other people my age have driven all over Australia in a double or even just singles and they love it. I guess it's not for everyone, but maybe I should give it a go.
Oh wow. Until I was 32 I hadn't left WA. It's important to do what you enjoy so if you're happy now then why change. Maybe you could try it one time to see if you like it though. Are you just driving around Melbourne or around Victoria?
@@RoadTrainAdventures Just around Melbourne mostly and inner suburbs, my last job was delivering precast panels and other stuff to building sites. I really didn't enjoy it, some building sites were great, others were a nightmare full of arrogant people who all wanted to be the boss. I ended up quitting recently because of the waiting around, I'd get parked up for hours and I still had other pickups and deliveries so it got stressful. Maybe being on the highways would suit me, I can be left alone 😅
Oh yeah I know what you mean. My first jobs were around town where I had pick ups after I deliver. The delivery places just don't get that. I hear your pain there.
Hey John 👋great video really really enjoyed it 👍✅ I started out as a motorbike courier in 1987 I worked sub contract for fasta couriers. The good thing is it gives you great defencive driving skills and really good time management skills.then I went to a Ute 1985 Holden rodeo trayback with a 2liter desiel and 4 on the tree.but I never got anymore speeding tickets. Thanks again for making really great videos cheers 😊👍👌✅
Excellent and helpful video! I live in British Columbia Canada, and I am currently working toward my class 1 license which is our version of an HC license basically. Allocation of funds is currently the issue unfortunately as the training course for the license costs approximately $16,000 CAD. I am currently saving money the best I can, and hopefully I will be able to put myself through the course soon enough!
Cool story. I could have been doing this about 10 years ago. A fella taught me to drive a flat bed truck with split gears, and it was fun. I thought it'd be great to drive road trains around the country, so i went for my HR license. I was pretty confident I'd be able to drive the test truck so paid my $1200 for the test. Roadranger gearbox stumped me, i was grinding a lot but the guy never told me anything different so i just kept driving the same. Anyway day 3 the test, he failed me. I was devastated.
Great video - about to make the jump into MC from HR - similar to you I've had this licence for 16 years and only drove a truck on a mining site once! I'm lucky in that I have the time to commit to learning and finding the right company to take on an older driver with not much transport industry experience (that's a little daunting I'll admit) - there's just something about getting on the road
@@RoadTrainAdventures I'm in Cairns - but have the luxury of being able to go anywhere as I have no commitments at home - divorced for 12 years now and kids all grown up - I'll keep you posted at how I go!
I'm glad you mentioned that you said you got your HR licence because you like to have all of the licences! I have been obsessed with having every type of licence since I was 21 and I'm now 26. I currently have my HR B licence and my motorbike L's. I also have a forklift licence, white card, H endorsement, boat licence, and Ochre Card. I am in the process of enrolling in the MC licence course next month. I'm the same as you, I got my HR licence but never used it. I got my MR then HR when I was 21-24, and I found it hard to apply for jobs because I was under 25. Now that I am 26 and I will soon have my MC licence, I will give job applying a go again. 🚛 It's great to see someone who likes to get all of the licences! It also gives me hope that I can get a heavy vehicle driving job with no experience too! 🚛
Is a good idea to get a job in a company that has small and big trucks. This way you can get a job driving their rigid truck first then they should give you a go in a larger truck after they see how you perform.
Kia ora johnno I've been driving for over 35 years still get a out of stuff too learn here in New Zealand and I did drive over in Sydney over 20 years ago on a side loader great video
Thanks heaps. Yes we can all learn. I am even open to a new truckies teaching me. I'll always great what someone has to say and then decide if I want to use that information.
I got out of trucking a couple years ago and sold my trucks and trailers. I got tired of the government, DOT and over regulation. It was a lifestyle and when it became a job I had enough. I do miss the driving, but not all the paperwork and headaches with running the business.
Very good. In Australia people who are retired but want to do a little driving from time to time can work on a casual basis just don't a quick run. Is that something you can do there?
I just loved your history & determination to learn more and ask questions about why this happened and can we fix this for next time around ,Well done Johnno @ Lumbars transport in Denni .luve your videing and drone shots .😅😅👍
Really enjoyed your story Johnno. I had a Class 3 (1976) and had driven an awful old Bedford hauling massively overweight sandstone blocks. A mate owned a prime mover and wanted to take a year off so offered me the job. It was local work so I got away with a few months gap between starting to drive and getting my Class 5 (1979). Lesson and test was on a single drive with a tiny single axle trailer. Had to reverse park it! Pretty different to what I was actually driving and doing. Had very few clues on restraints and tarping and everything else so, like you, I asked lots of questions and learnt as I went. Thanks again. mark
Great story and very intriguing. Moreover, it seems like I need to stay in touch. You seem to be the right person with whom I can understand and learn how to drive in Australia according to the rules. I have a year to organize everything before coming to your beautiful country. Thank you
Johno very colorful driving history ive always believed a little experience and a lot of self confidence can take you a long way.But i think those days are gone everything today is so structured all the funs gone .But i enjoy the trips with you and Ken ,look forward to your next one mate Kym Adelaide
Thanks Jonno for sharing how you got started in the industry. Getting some experience is definitely the hardest part of a truckies career. I started at a major refrigeration transport business on a HR-B licence for 1 year. It's actually a lot easier starting off on an auto/synchro getting used to your basics of truck driving. Then removing your condition later as all you'll have to focus on is learning the transmission and everything else is 2nd nature. I now drive garbage trucks Just got my HC last Saturday and lost the B condition. I'm still looking for a HC job there's just nothing going on my area right now. Even if you have rigid experience and no trailer experience employers will still give you a shot most of the time.
Thanks Jordan. Wow where do you live? I thought there would be jobs every where. If you can get a job that has rigid and b Doubles then it's easy to move up in the same company to get experience. Let me know how you go.
@@RoadTrainAdventures northern rivers NSW. Been to just over 20 companies across the area and a few on the gold coast. I'm only 22 as well so that may be why they're hesitant. There's HR jobs on nearly every corner! Just not much for semis and b doubles going at the moment.
Hi, thanks very much for all the videos you put on. Very informative. I'm in NZ and just finished 11 years as a milk tanker driver. Looking at coming to Australia. It seems there are plenty of jobs around.
@RoadTrainAdventures HI probably Bundaberg or more likely Rockhampton as we have friends there. Definitely East coast. Or possibly FIFO work if need be.
Great video and enjoy all of them you put out. I have been an MC driver for around 10 years now. Loved the video on tarping a load. Next time you tarp the drop deck would love to see that one. Keep it up and rennet shiny side up
Thanks Daniel. Lucky for me I don't have to tarp the drop deck much. We used to have a client that I'd have to tarp but it was a very high load of steel so the bottom half wasn't covered.
Thanks for the video Johnno. I was 19 when I got the equivalent of HC. During the test ( it was my second time in a Roadranger) I missed a gear which the testing officer commented on. I replied don’t worry I have another 12 here. It was a 13 speed roadranger. He laughed and passed me. I never really used it as went into earthmoving then spent 40 years underground as a miner.
good video mate and story of how it started. I'm 30 and been in the construction industry for over 10 years and wanted a change and have just been given a interstate role driving HC which I'm nervous but also can't wait to see and try it. I love driving and seeing the country side with my caravan so thought why not get a job to get paid doing the same thing. Only thing is my partner can't come with but they have offered my flexibly which is what I like. Least if I try it for a few months or so and build my experience up and I know its not for me, at least I gave it a go and can also move into local driving. Anyway cheers mate for the videos, have been really enjoying watching them. Keep up the good work
Nice life time story and wel done. ''wanted to do'' and with some good old passion and brains,you come far. I already knew in 1977 when i was a little boy that i wanted to be a truck driver. We had a transport company in the village. I had very little contact with them, but they gave the virus. I had all driving licenses and diplomas in a year and a half and was 19y when I became a truck driver. You iknow,was no navigation ore telefone. And worked my way up to the long distances in EU. Yes,i flipt over in the bed for abouth 23 years. lol. I knew since 1987 that I wanted to be a truckie. For the country and its extremes, the adventure,not to many p[eople and of course the road trains. no media at that time but the newspaper, magazines and TV. I never made it to Australia to be one of your colleagues. But i stil folow you guys.
@@RoadTrainAdventures yes,i agree. It is intresting to know how you guys made it. Thats always a good story and good to know. And thanks for that litle privet. I had 2 years of high school construction training. Because the mechanics course was full. After that, I did 2 years of mechanics in 1 year. But that theorie 2 in 1 year,was very hard, and I didn't pass.I started working and became an assistant manager and greengrocer in a large supermarket,where I was holiday and weekend help before. But yeah.. there was no adventure in it for me. To finance the saturday education courses truck driver , 1 time per week for half a year. and driver's licenses.er's licenses. I do not know for how long time. But over here there are truckdrivers scool. Its abouth 3 studie years. internship and theory Then they have diploma and licens.And than they can do everything hahaha. But much better ten all lose adjucation in my time.
That's great information mate for people looking to get into Trucking, as the old saying there is no such thing as a dumb question, if you don't know something ask, it may just save you for someone else's life
@@RoadTrainAdventures Hey mate no I haven't heard of him , but I will check him out. Yea I moved here in December 2018, from Sydney, we are located in the very North in the Province of Ilocos Norte, very strange Driving on the left hand side of the road hahaha,
I got my HC licence in a 1418 Benz in Mitchell, Qld back in 74. I drove the truck from yard on my own to the police station and he more or less told me to go around the block and the wrote out my licence ( paper back then) . I never got an MC licence until 2001. That was only a one day course and a short test. Never did roadtrain work.
Hey truck driving isn't just for the young ones starting out..😉The older ones can also do it especially after your Children have grown up..Its a great way too see the huge country off ours.
Bloody bunks in the T-line Inters were not big either until I drove for Newman transport in a bigger cab T-Line, ACCO 3070 Eagle was like being on display to every one when trying to have a sleep
@@RoadTrainAdventures That 3070 I was not permanent , just did one trip to Perth from Wagga and return then owner carried on back to Sydney , he had something he had to do, long time ago .
Enjoyed listening to your story Jonno, ive never done road train work,done general freight with Marsdens (flat tops and tarps) and DJ transport (tautliners) back in the 90's got my MC licence in 2012 because the fella i was working for ran out of work for me, told me he had a mate who was looking for a fella to drive his Bdouble tipper carting grain So got my MC licence on that Friday and was driving a Bdouble Monday LOL did that cupla years and then got a job driving a Bdouble carting cattle did that for 3 years and loved it talk about fast and the furious LOL Now i have 1 thing left on my working life bucket list is to get into road trains BUT everyone wants atleast 2 years experience which makes it hard ey anyway good job i enjoy your stories keep up the good work ...
Good story Johnno. Good that you have no set run, that keeps it interesting. We travel round camping in the canopy on my LC, accomodation is the same as you, we enjoy the country but we don’t get paid to do it though. We have never been to Deni though. I wouldn’t mind taking my WB Ute to the Ute muster one day. Jeff
@@RoadTrainAdventures We only do trips, our last one earlier this year was a little one, The great ocean road from NSW and back through western Vic. Our home made canopy has been all over Australia though. It cost me about $2000 to build, looks like a tradies back but is very effective . Got to try and work out how to get someone else to pay for the fuel though like you. Jeff
Fantastic explanation of how we start working figuring out what we want to do, I am a sailor/captain, and started the same way. Passion for what we do, absolutely Alpha and Omega
For sure. If you don't live your job then maybe it's time to work towards something new.
Thanks Johnno for your "start to now" journey. While listening to your story about not being taught correctly how to chain, then asking the other float driver questions, I recalled one of my early memories about folding tarps. I was working in the yard of a small trucking company that my brother was driving for. There were a lot of tarps just scrunched up at the back of the shed. My job initially was to clean up the yard. I asked how to fold them up whenever I had some spare time, so that the drivers could use them when needed. The boss wouldn't show me. The drivers had no time to show me, so I took it upon myself to fold them up the best I knew how. These were 40 foot trailer tarps. I dragged each tarp out into an open dirt space one by one, there were about 4, and it was a windy day. Weights had to be placed/moved on corners to hold it square. With each progressive fold, I would sweep off all loose dirt. It took a very long time for the first one. After folding each, I rolled it onto a pallet and stored it in an accessible part of the shed using the 5 tonne forklift. It looked neat and tidy, and I was happy. That way, the next time the drivers needed a tarp, ready, done. I used to help them tie down loads with chains and ropes, though never tie down tarps, so I never saw how they unrolled them. Well one day a driver needed a tarp. Big Oops. I folded all the tarps the same way I fold my sheets. This driver cursed me when the tarp did not unroll the way he expected it... I was in the yard helping him on the forklift this say, so he now HAD to show me. From on top of the general freight, he just rolled the blob of a mess of tarp over the side and laneded on to the ground. He said he had wasted enough time, from other delays. Together, in an open space, we unfolded this tarp, all the while his cursing became more and more. My only focus was, great I'm learning the correct way to fold tarps... yaaeee! Finally folded correctly, and on the pallet facing the way he wanted it, I jumped on the forklift, lifted the pallet up where wanted it mid load, he positioned then unrolled the tarp, THE RIGHT WAY this time. I was ecstatic. I also learnt that day how to tie down tarps using all those attached ropes. In my favour, I had replaced and respliced all the frayed ropes, much to the delight of the irate driver. He had a better respect for me from then on. I was always looking for ways to learn more by asking questions, and in doing so helping the drivers to shorten their load/unload/reload times.
And your story right there is prime example of why we should help others from the start. Well done for keeping a good attitude.
You had a bad job with bad people. The lesson learned her is if your boss is too busy to train, leave
A close call
@jerbear7952 Yes it was a lack of support from the boss and the drivers, however it was my initiative and incentive to help the drivers, is where I learnt the most. I loved working in the yard, clearing it up so the truck drivers could have plenty of clear area to turn the rigs around with the trailers for unloading and loading. Late at night, I helped to repair and replace broken trailer plugs the trailers left by other drivers, also problem solved the combo lights that had broken wires. All round I learned a lot and the drivers were the one who appreciated my work. So, to that end I was successful.
We both moved on from that boss. Our new employers could see our skills. We were taught more in the next job. This was back when there was no such thing as "training". My brothers test for his first truck driving job ... (with no licence) If he could drive the truck out the gate, around the block and park it in the yard, he had a job. He did it, and over the time, improved, just as I did , to learn from his fellow drivers. He has gone on to become a successful road train operator, now a valued employee as an MC Instructor. I left the trucking industry and went on to other endeavours. I still maintain a healthy respect for the tireless work of truck drivers whether local or interstate.
Now you have a great story there. Great stuff
I’m currently working as a MR truck driver, got mr license in synchro hr in auto. All the companies I’ve seen advertising for on the job websites hardly say road ranger. I’m 20 making 1.4-2k per week 50-60 hrs on night shift, been working towards getting my MC license with a road ranger hopefully to have no conditions on heavy vehicles. Great video to learn from, would love to see more of this.
That's great. When I had HR it was 13 years ago when most trucks weren't auto.
Hey I thought you should be full license after that you can apply
Many people can only drive an auto.
Unreal Jonno..
Everyone's got their own story mate hey!!
I told my dad at 3yrs old I was going to drive trucks for him lol..
He said not unless you have a trade behind you..
So I become a Heavy vehicle mechanic but have always been around heavy machinery..
I went straight from a car license to a Hc which I had for around 6yrs b4 getting my bdouble licence..
I had bdouble flattops bcs know one else wanted them..
I loved it mate,I run out of Nqx Wollongong to Nth Queensland weekly for about 10yrs..
Then had my own truck for a few yrs which was awesome..
Then in 2012 5 children later my marriage started falling apart so then I stayed at home..
Now a single father with the 5 children and I'd circumstances were different I'd be back out on the hwy chasing that dream..
Great content Jonno hope you are doing well mate 👍 👌
Wow Scott. What an awesome story you got too. Not so much about your marriage but the experience. Love that your went for flat tops. That's the easy to go.
Lucky my 10 year old son doesn't want to drive trucks. He wants to be a airline pilot. I guess it's very similar though. Being away all the time. Are you kids adults now?
@RoadTrainAdventures 21,20 high dependency (scoliosis,epilepsy,autism and cerebral palsy),16,13 all girls and my son who's the youngest is 11..
Wouldnr change my life at all Jonno..
It's the card's I've been dealt which can be very trying/testing sometimes..
I do more hrs now then what I ever did on the hwy mate..
It was always the lifestyle I loved driving truck's mate especially doing Mackay,Townsville every week..
Them Nth Queensland blokes are awesome fellas..
My mum wanted me to be an Architect bcs I was excellent at tech drawing but I wasn't interested,all I wanted to do was drive trucks for my father which was hard work bcs even now at 74 he's very old school..
That's awesome about your son mate..
Wow sounds like a very challenging but very rewarding life you lead. No doubt your kids all think you're awesome for being there so much.
The slogan of your company should be "We've got your back"😂
Ha ha
Congratulations on being such a good storyteller. Not everyone can just be themselves, but you do it so well.
Oh wow. Thanks Graham. I never thought of myself like that but maybe I can tell some other stories.
Loved the camera position on that Johno. You have done well to be a truck driver.I think your positive attitude is your great point.Going into j9bs with a whingy winey attitide won't cut it. Thats what I would love too. The solitude and wide open spaces. Some peeps can't handle the loneliness. Thanks for sharing your story. Every one loves to hear your side of life. 🤗😎
Thanks Brenda. All the comments are very nice. I'm hoping I can give back some good advice to all.
John, new subscriber from the states. Love your channel man.👍👍👍
Awesome. Thanks Raymond. Good to have more people from the states.
johno in all the year i worked on trucks and semis i learnt never be scared to ask if u dont no something if ur not sure about something always ask thats how i learnt wen i was doing trucks from old bedford trucks big kenworth and mack i miss working on trucks thats why i love watching ur shows cause u r a good teacher and people learn from u wen they watch ur videos your a good bloke johno
Thanks heaps Johnny. Yes along questions is the key to getting it right.
Love the videos. I'm 22 driving road trains and practically live in the truck. Definitely a life style !
For sure Jarrod. I've seen some young people have their girlfriend with them as they drive around Australia. That might be cool too, until they drive you crazy. Ha ha
@@RoadTrainAdventures thats what I am doing besides the girlfriend part 😂
Very good
Yep when you’re driving trucks warehouses Bitchin office politics you completely away from all that stuff that’s why I like it that’s what’s good about driving trucks There are some downsides time limits call be in places pretty tired at times but you more or less your own boss
For sure Michael. What other job has a bed in a room for you to have a break in.
Great story and video. I was an industrial sparky and found if you took on the hard/shit jobs now one else wanted to do, you could master them and everyone would leave you alone. I would use any and every resource I could find to learn about the task. The best part was the hard jobs become easy, and the others never knew. I did this during my career (15+ occupations) and it never failed me, I'm now retired. My only regret is I never did what you are doing, I loved driving and still do. I did drive Trans Perth busses for my midlife crisis for a few years and that was a hoot, all about having a good attitude. Thanks for the great videos.
Thanks Roger. You sound like the employee all companies wish they could have. Good on you.
I like your videos mate
Thanks for all of them
From a young french man making his dream come true by driving road trains in WA sitting behind the steering of a Kenworth 🇦🇺 🤙
Oh you're here now, in WA?
Yeah mate
In WA driving road trains for mines
Oh very good
Im trying to do the same as you as a french canadian, could we get in contact im lost in the process 😂 merci
I always answer comments here. What would you like to know?
Cheers Johnno. Great info and advice. I'm a bit older, 52 but it's always been the dream and with the kids getting older it's my time.
Go for it.
I'm in Perth and about to turn 48. Just got my HR-B.
Kids are all grown up and I'm single. Love to travel so keen to get some experience while I wait out the 12 month period until I can get my MC, then hit the road.
It's hard nowadays to get a job though I find because everyone wants someone with experience behind the wheel.
I'm going to keep at it though.
Something will come up.
Cheers for the info mate.
I had my HR-B first too and only got MC when I went for my MC. Yes you'll have to find a company who can take you on. Just apply to companies, maybe even in person so they can see who you are.
@RoadTrainAdventures Cheers for the info mate.
I'll start pounding the pavement and see what I can find.
Safe travels my friend.
Sure thing. Let me know how you go.
Thanks for letting us know how you started and how you enjoy driving. Like you I love driving and always gave the boss a fair go as if I was working for myself. I had a HC license for years but only did some casual driving until the kids were older and I decided to get into it full time. So I drove semi's and big rigids for 20 years until I retired, I loved it and felt like I was a paid tourist seeing places and being my own boss once I left the depot and the sence of freedom I experienced. In a way I regret not going full time earlier but the kids would have been younger and I wonted to be there for them. It's a choice I made and others have chosen differently. Thanks for your videos, they get me back out on the road again. Stay safe.😎
Thanks Dennis. They say that when you're on your death bed you mainly regret the things you didn't do over the things you did so. You still get to go bush from now on so you covered both angles.
Yes. If I was 40 years younger I would be In a truck . But I know trucks back then we're different. Driving with Joey box was a dream. Lol
Oh yeah
Great story on how you got going. Similar experience here. My first semi job I was required to make my own ropes for carting cardboard. No idea how to even start. One of the other two drivers showed me how to properly make the ends up and off I went. Not nylon ropes where you melt the end and bang a steel ring on, properly spliced ones.
Yes that's certainly great how people were able to help you from the start.
I did 2 years on a Road Train Car Carrier , 2 trailers Brisbane to Darwin 1981/82, how I got the job was I was driving for RoadAir out of Wagga Wagga, C1800 Inter, after I left there went to Flemings Hardware/Transport, in Wagga Wagga, CK40 UD , anyhow the transport manager of Road Air had moved to Brisbane and set up a Car Carrier Road Train, ( I started trucking in a Car Carrier 1973 Adelaide/Sydney) he pphoned me and asked I would like to drive his, so I went up to Brisbane and went on a trip with him to Darwin, loved it, went back to Wagga Wagga and put the house on the market and moved to Boronia Heights. now back then the licence I had was I think an A Class , drive anything except a Motor Bike or Bus. yeh I miss it still now retired ...still bleed diesel when I stab a finger with a screw driver. do a bit of Pilot work now and then , got to get out on the road . That's how I got to call in Toowoomba and seen Terry.
Awesome Doug. Sounds like you got some good experiences behind you too. Yes Tez had some great knowledge too in his videos.
Attitude is everything in Road Transport, Easy Going Professional makes it so much more enjoyable for all involved.
For sure
I really like get into doing this and I really don't need to be at home at night either.
This might be perfect for you then
Love your wonderful history and the heartwarming enthusiasm - your employer is exceptionally lucky.
Very nice. Thanks David
❤❤❤❤ Thanks for 🆕 uploaded
Thanks for watching
The sound of the truck's engine is amazing. There is no engine sound like this in trucks in Europe or Turkey.
No your trucks are normally a smaller sounding motor.
Reversing with two trailers may not be easy, but I imagine with enough practice, anything is achievable! again great video. love it thank you.
For sure. Just practice and it's not that hard.
Great video, enjoyed your hearing about your experiences & 20:04 attitude. Thanks for shareing cheers
Thanks Peter
Yes I also loved every minute of driving trucks around Australia it gets in your blood thanks for sharing John 🦘
Thanks Kerry. Yeah for sure. You either got it or you don't.
Well I am way too old to be a trucker. However for years it has been my dream to learn to drive a Peter. I have been admin for the same birthday and Christmas present. Truck driving lessons. Well I never got them. So dang it I have given up asking and am treating myself to lessons for my 65th birthday. So I start next May. I have to admit I am looking forward to it. I enjoy driving ( my van) long distances are fine. I don't intend to become a trucker at this late stage but I do intend to fulfill a dream. Meanwhile I am enjoying your channel.
Oh Julian. You'll love driving something bigger. Even if it's just for the lessons. I remember sitting in 5 to truck that had air brakes. I thought it was so awesome.
Backing a bd into stockramps is easy go out wide sight ramp reverse straight back many a drivers try too over steer
That's right. If you have to steer full left then full right, you need to stop and start again
Another great informative video john'o 👍
Thanks again Andre
Johno it took me longer to read all the comments than watch the video 🤣😂🤣
Great video mate, I've got a 909 and older 4x8 Drake swingwing which I am painting now and hopefully plan to work my way around Aus. and enjoy the rest of my working life
Awesome. Well let me know if you pass me some time.
If you paint it, you may not fit in some of the docks. Some are very tight, may need to take some vaseline.
Ha ha
It used to be a 'C' class lic' in Qld before it was HR. In those days part of the test was change a tyre & bleed a diesel engine. You could do that 'C' class 12 months after holding a car lic'. After holding a 'C' (HR) for 12 months you could go get your 'E' (HC) class & 12 months after that E4 or E6 (MC). So by age 20 you had a road train lic'. Be careful asking what a Ring Feeder is ,i got told it was a sex toy! Good Show.
Yes how things have changed. It's very easy nowadays with very little knowledge needed.
Great to hear how you became so proficient and your profession and it really is a profession. I started in transport at 18 driving a 5 ton AS160 Inter and at our company you were taught to drive everything so I eventually progressed to Crane operating but would also drive floats, semi but only Brisbane local . I eventually decided I wanted to operate Cranes full time and i drove Frannas right up until I retired at 60.. 2 knee replacements made me reconsider continuing work. That was 10 years ago and now I build Computers on the side and drive Khanacross cars on weekends for a bit of excitement. lol about the reverse to you lol.. btw if you are ever in QLD Brisbane would be happy to buy you a coffee and have a chat.
Well Mike I can only meet you if you're a Linux man. Ha ha
David Hunn
This explains how you were so confident about ripping the dashboard to bits a few videos back when the aircon packed up on your way north a few videos ago. I thought at the time that you probably had a trade or something behind you.
Thanks David. Yes my technical background certainly helps.
I also did motorbike courier work for 2 years after I left school in Sydney in the late 80s summers were awesome, winters dreadful! Thanks for another great vid great to hear more of your story, I’ve always been around trucks as a kid and the open road and loved the idea of life on the road but never ventured into driving for a living, maybe one day? 👍
Wow riding around Sydney would be really different. I had a DT200 etch was the best bike. Could mount the curb and go up and down stairs easily. Oh the fun we had doing that.
@@RoadTrainAdventures Sydney years ago was no where near as busy as it is today, I’m Surprised I even made it to 20 riding around back then.. haha
Oh yeah. We had some great times riding around back then. I believe there are still a few around but with the internet, they're not needed very much.
That was a great share Johnno , really enjoyed listening to your progression and what you enjoyed driving, must be very hard for you and your family not being home every other night, take care and thanks again for the video 👍👏
Thanks Darrel. Lucky for me my wife is a very independent woman so it doesn't worry her how long I'm away got. My kids do wish I'd be home more though.
It was lovely to hear your story at the end. I'm in the UK and have my truck licence (hgv-class c), but it's a totally different job over here. Crowded roads and lots of regulations make the job too difficult for the pay. Anyhow, great videos, mate, and all the best to yourself and your family.
Yes I've heard everything is so much harder in the UK. I'm very lucky that I am here.
@RoadTrainAdventures you are indeed mate, beautiful countryside in your videos. Take care and keep on trucking. 🚚
Awesome. Thanks again
Very interesting dialogue there Johnno, and some sound advice too! Back in the early 80's when I started driving, we had to sleep across the seats, no night heater..... Today's trucks are really great, a home from home! Also, great advice about asking questions, never "guess" that you're doing the right thing ;-) Looking forward to the next vid. Stay safe 🇬🇧
Thanks Bob. Yes I might not be so keen to sleep in the truck 40 yeasts ago. That would be tough.
Excellent video mate. I love the inside stories and memories. It was exactly the life I always wanted here in the US
Are you saying that life isn't like this in the US?
Im 23 in a HR (i wish i was in it more then i am) one of these days ill jump HC then MC and hit the road. done a couple interstate and intrastate trips in a HR and i was absolutely loving it, as you said with volvo bunk its tight but ive had the time of my life. Cheers for the videos🤙
Awesome. It's great to have you along. Remember you can go straight from HR to MC if you've had your car license for longer than 2 years or was it having your HR for 2 years.
@RoadTrainAdventures along as my employer let's me get use to 1 trailer first, I'll be sweet to go MC.
Excellent job and story
Thanks heaps
like this: Try not to look to dumb..a very honest statement, well done, had a similar experience in this matter..
Awesome. Thanks Rudi
Awesome sound!
For sure
Your story Purity smear to mine but haven't gotten my Mc yet
Great
Nice shifting
Thanks heaps
Great way of explaning!
Thanks Olli
Hi, I live in Sweden and will be moving to Adelaide in December. Right now I work in the mining industry driving trucks and other machines. I'm a little nervous about my language and traffic culture. i never drove road ranger trucks, Mack, Kenworth or peterbilt or left hand traffic trucks. but i like driving trucks. I hope to find a job there. thanks for this video.
You can only try.
Great video, it's good hearing someone else's story and how they got into the industry. I really wish I could find an interest in interstate. I'm single and 27 with a full MC license, but for the life of me I just can't seem to find any interest in doing interstate work. I live in Victoria and I haven't left the state once, yet other people my age have driven all over Australia in a double or even just singles and they love it. I guess it's not for everyone, but maybe I should give it a go.
Oh wow. Until I was 32 I hadn't left WA. It's important to do what you enjoy so if you're happy now then why change. Maybe you could try it one time to see if you like it though. Are you just driving around Melbourne or around Victoria?
@@RoadTrainAdventures Just around Melbourne mostly and inner suburbs, my last job was delivering precast panels and other stuff to building sites. I really didn't enjoy it, some building sites were great, others were a nightmare full of arrogant people who all wanted to be the boss. I ended up quitting recently because of the waiting around, I'd get parked up for hours and I still had other pickups and deliveries so it got stressful. Maybe being on the highways would suit me, I can be left alone 😅
Oh yeah I know what you mean. My first jobs were around town where I had pick ups after I deliver. The delivery places just don't get that. I hear your pain there.
Hey John 👋great video really really enjoyed it 👍✅ I started out as a motorbike courier in 1987 I worked sub contract for fasta couriers. The good thing is it gives you great defencive driving skills and really good time management skills.then I went to a Ute 1985 Holden rodeo trayback with a 2liter desiel and 4 on the tree.but I never got anymore speeding tickets. Thanks again for making really great videos cheers 😊👍👌✅
Oh Fasta. I tried them one. They weren't too bad. Mercury was probably the best I worked at and Action wasn't bad either.
Excellent and helpful video! I live in British Columbia Canada, and I am currently working toward my class 1 license which is our version of an HC license basically. Allocation of funds is currently the issue unfortunately as the training course for the license costs approximately $16,000 CAD. I am currently saving money the best I can, and hopefully I will be able to put myself through the course soon enough!
$16,000 to get a license. That's crazy. Well I hope it all works out in the end for you because that's a lot of money.
@@RoadTrainAdventuresyeah i thought $1500 was bad over here 😂
Where is over here?
@@RoadTrainAdventures Tasmania
Oh I see. I'll be over there for Christmas. No doubt I'll bump into you at the shops. Ha ha
❤ video amazing camera footage, no vibration and love the sounds that engine brake ❤❤❤
Ha ha. Yeah the engine does sound good. For sure
Good one johno been driving for 5 i still ask questions and still learning
Good on ya Jordan. Very good
top bloke
Thanks Mike
Cool story. I could have been doing this about 10 years ago. A fella taught me to drive a flat bed truck with split gears, and it was fun. I thought it'd be great to drive road trains around the country, so i went for my HR license. I was pretty confident I'd be able to drive the test truck so paid my $1200 for the test. Roadranger gearbox stumped me, i was grinding a lot but the guy never told me anything different so i just kept driving the same. Anyway day 3 the test, he failed me. I was devastated.
Oh Mike. It's still not too late though.
@@RoadTrainAdventures i might give it another crack.
Oh for sure. Make a video about it too
@@RoadTrainAdventures there's an idea!
Oh yeah
Great video - about to make the jump into MC from HR - similar to you I've had this licence for 16 years and only drove a truck on a mining site once! I'm lucky in that I have the time to commit to learning and finding the right company to take on an older driver with not much transport industry experience (that's a little daunting I'll admit) - there's just something about getting on the road
Let us know how you go. What city are you in?
@@RoadTrainAdventures I'm in Cairns - but have the luxury of being able to go anywhere as I have no commitments at home - divorced for 12 years now and kids all grown up - I'll keep you posted at how I go!
Oh. We have a driver who lives in Townsville.
great vid
Thanks Paul
Sounds like fun to me because I am young, but also sounds like it is hard to manage when you have a family. Thanks for your insights into trucking.
It is a lot of fun but it is important to live life in balance.
@@RoadTrainAdventures Very true
Thanks for the video Johnno. So informative, and your reversing skills are amazing as you showed us in another video a while ago!
Thanks heaps
Great story. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Rachel
Thank you so much for delivering such a story
Awesome. Thanks for watching
Great work experiences shared. Thanks for that.
Thanks again
I'm glad you mentioned that you said you got your HR licence because you like to have all of the licences! I have been obsessed with having every type of licence since I was 21 and I'm now 26. I currently have my HR B licence and my motorbike L's. I also have a forklift licence, white card, H endorsement, boat licence, and Ochre Card. I am in the process of enrolling in the MC licence course next month.
I'm the same as you, I got my HR licence but never used it. I got my MR then HR when I was 21-24, and I found it hard to apply for jobs because I was under 25. Now that I am 26 and I will soon have my MC licence, I will give job applying a go again. 🚛 It's great to see someone who likes to get all of the licences! It also gives me hope that I can get a heavy vehicle driving job with no experience too! 🚛
Is a good idea to get a job in a company that has small and big trucks. This way you can get a job driving their rigid truck first then they should give you a go in a larger truck after they see how you perform.
Fantastic information....I have HC looking to expand my skills and licence,
It's always good to be able to drive everything.
Thank you for sharing Johnno
Awesome. Thanks Mark
Kia ora johnno I've been driving for over 35 years still get a out of stuff too learn here in New Zealand and I did drive over in Sydney over 20 years ago on a side loader great video
Thanks heaps. Yes we can all learn. I am even open to a new truckies teaching me. I'll always great what someone has to say and then decide if I want to use that information.
Thanks for sharing Johno
Awesome. Thanks Brett
Love your spirit!
Thanks heaps
An awesome video about your awesome story. Thank you for sharing with us 😊👍
Awesome. Thanks again
@@RoadTrainAdventures very welcome John 😊
Awesome
Noice story bro sounds like your a hard worker bro and having fun doing it
Thanks Patrick. For sure I love my job.
I got out of trucking a couple years ago and sold my trucks and trailers. I got tired of the government, DOT and over regulation. It was a lifestyle and when it became a job I had enough. I do miss the driving, but not all the paperwork and headaches with running the business.
Very good. In Australia people who are retired but want to do a little driving from time to time can work on a casual basis just don't a quick run. Is that something you can do there?
I just loved your history & determination to learn more and ask questions about why this happened and can we fix this for next time around ,Well done Johnno @ Lumbars transport in Denni .luve your videing and drone shots .😅😅👍
Thanks Garry for your kind words.
I really appreciate what you are doing buddy it inspired to those who love truckies job.
Thanks bro.& keep safe/be safe...
Awesome. Thanks Loreto
Really enjoyed your story Johnno. I had a Class 3 (1976) and had driven an awful old Bedford hauling massively overweight sandstone blocks. A mate owned a prime mover and wanted to take a year off so offered me the job. It was local work so I got away with a few months gap between starting to drive and getting my Class 5 (1979). Lesson and test was on a single drive with a tiny single axle trailer. Had to reverse park it! Pretty different to what I was actually driving and doing. Had very few clues on restraints and tarping and everything else so, like you, I asked lots of questions and learnt as I went. Thanks again. mark
Very good Mark. You did everything right.
Very interesting 👍. watching from northern Ireland
Thanks Michael. Great to have you along from Ireland.
Great story and very intriguing. Moreover, it seems like I need to stay in touch. You seem to be the right person with whom I can understand and learn how to drive in Australia according to the rules. I have a year to organize everything before coming to your beautiful country. Thank you
Yes you could watch me and other truckie channels.
Glad to see you happy and enjoying what you're doing. Stay safe as always.👍
For sure Justin. You have to live what you do each day or life is just a drag.
Johno very colorful driving history ive always believed a little experience and a lot of self confidence can take you a long way.But i think those days are gone everything today is so structured all the funs gone .But i enjoy the trips with you and Ken ,look forward to your next one mate
Kym
Adelaide
Thanks Kym. Yes it's a mine field it here now avoiding a run in with the cops and sort.
Thanks Jonno for sharing how you got started in the industry. Getting some experience is definitely the hardest part of a truckies career. I started at a major refrigeration transport business on a HR-B licence for 1 year.
It's actually a lot easier starting off on an auto/synchro getting used to your basics of truck driving. Then removing your condition later as all you'll have to focus on is learning the transmission and everything else is 2nd nature.
I now drive garbage trucks Just got my HC last Saturday and lost the B condition. I'm still looking for a HC job there's just nothing going on my area right now.
Even if you have rigid
experience and no trailer experience employers will still give you a shot most of the time.
Thanks Jordan. Wow where do you live? I thought there would be jobs every where.
If you can get a job that has rigid and b Doubles then it's easy to move up in the same company to get experience. Let me know how you go.
@@RoadTrainAdventures northern rivers NSW. Been to just over 20 companies across the area and a few on the gold coast. I'm only 22 as well so that may be why they're hesitant. There's HR jobs on nearly every corner! Just not much for semis and b doubles going at the moment.
Yeah insurance is very expensive for people under 25.that may be the problem.
Hi, thanks very much for all the videos you put on. Very informative. I'm in NZ and just finished 11 years as a milk tanker driver. Looking at coming to Australia. It seems there are plenty of jobs around.
Oh yeah there are plenty of jobs. Where are you thinking of living?
@RoadTrainAdventures HI probably Bundaberg or more likely Rockhampton as we have friends there. Definitely East coast. Or possibly FIFO work if need be.
Yeah that's a nice area. Moranbah has a lot of mining jobs.
Great video and enjoy all of them you put out. I have been an MC driver for around 10 years now. Loved the video on tarping a load. Next time you tarp the drop deck would love to see that one. Keep it up and rennet shiny side up
Thanks Daniel. Lucky for me I don't have to tarp the drop deck much. We used to have a client that I'd have to tarp but it was a very high load of steel so the bottom half wasn't covered.
@@RoadTrainAdventures Love tarp load on a flat top. I think it looks the best and is a dying art. Will keep an eye out for you coming through Mildura
Yeah for sure
Thanks for sharing your story
Thanks Jessica
Thanks for the video Johnno. I was 19 when I got the equivalent of HC. During the test ( it was my second time in a Roadranger) I missed a gear which the testing officer commented on. I replied don’t worry I have another 12 here. It was a 13 speed roadranger. He laughed and passed me. I never really used it as went into earthmoving then spent 40 years underground as a miner.
Wow John. Quick, you can get into it now.
I like your sense of humour during the test.
@@RoadTrainAdventures Na Johnno enjoying retirement up here on Atherton Tablelands too much
Ah retirement. One day for me.
Great video Johno, all your videos are great and interesting to watch. 👍
Thanks Mark. It's what I hope.
good video mate and story of how it started. I'm 30 and been in the construction industry for over 10 years and wanted a change and have just been given a interstate role driving HC which I'm nervous but also can't wait to see and try it. I love driving and seeing the country side with my caravan so thought why not get a job to get paid doing the same thing. Only thing is my partner can't come with but they have offered my flexibly which is what I like. Least if I try it for a few months or so and build my experience up and I know its not for me, at least I gave it a go and can also move into local driving. Anyway cheers mate for the videos, have been really enjoying watching them. Keep up the good work
Very good Justin
Great chin wag mate i enjoyed the story (:=()
Thanks Raymond
Nice life time story and wel done. ''wanted to do'' and with some good old passion and brains,you come far. I already knew in 1977 when i was a little boy that i wanted to be a truck driver. We had a transport company in the village. I had very little contact with them, but they gave the virus. I had all driving licenses and diplomas in a year and a half and was 19y when I became a truck driver. You iknow,was no navigation ore telefone. And worked my way up to the long distances in EU. Yes,i flipt over in the bed for abouth 23 years. lol. I knew since 1987 that I wanted to be a truckie. For the country and its extremes, the adventure,not to many p[eople and of course the road trains. no media at that time but the newspaper, magazines and TV. I never made it to Australia to be one of your colleagues. But i stil folow you guys.
Awesome story. It's great to hear other peoples story how they became truck drivers too.
@@RoadTrainAdventures yes,i agree. It is intresting to know how you guys made it. Thats always a good story and good to know. And thanks for that litle privet. I had 2 years of high school construction training. Because the mechanics course was full. After that, I did 2 years of mechanics in 1 year. But that theorie 2 in 1 year,was very hard, and I didn't pass.I started working and became an assistant manager and greengrocer in a large supermarket,where I was holiday and weekend help before. But yeah.. there was no adventure in it for me. To finance the saturday education courses truck driver , 1 time per week for half a year. and driver's licenses.er's licenses. I do not know for how long time. But over here there are truckdrivers scool. Its abouth 3 studie years. internship and theory Then they have diploma and licens.And than they can do everything hahaha. But much better ten all lose adjucation in my time.
Very good
Very good story
Thanks Jonathan
That's great information mate for people looking to get into Trucking, as the old saying there is no such thing as a dumb question, if you don't know something ask, it may just save you for someone else's life
Save someone's life. For sure.
Your in the Philippines. Do you follow The Homeless Truckie? He's over there for another 4 weeks.
@@RoadTrainAdventures Hey mate no I haven't heard of him , but I will check him out.
Yea I moved here in December 2018, from Sydney, we are located in the very North in the Province of Ilocos Norte, very strange Driving on the left hand side of the road hahaha,
Oh OK. I think he lives in the south. Yeah check him out of RUclips.
@@RoadTrainAdventures for sure mate, take care
You too
Great explanation and video. Ray.
Awesome. Thanks Ray
I got my HC licence in a 1418 Benz in Mitchell, Qld back in 74. I drove the truck from yard on my own to the police station and he more or less told me to go around the block and the wrote out my licence ( paper back then) . I never got an MC licence until 2001. That was only a one day course and a short test. Never did roadtrain work.
Ha ha. Yeah don't you live the country coppas. Back then it was C class for us in WA.
@@RoadTrainAdventures I think it was a Class E in QLD and Class 5 in NSW. I had 2 licences for log book purposes. I'm sure you understand what I mean.
Oh yeah. I believe the log book scheme is completely flawed. You should drive to your ability and fatigue. Not to what a book says.
Hi Johno I saw you at Marulan nth b was going to say hi but looked around and you were gone anyway love the content spot on thanks👍
I haven't been to Marulan for at least 4 weeks so that was probably another driver but yes, keep an eye out for us. I always like to see hi.
Hey truck driving isn't just for the young ones starting out..😉The older ones can also do it especially after your Children have grown up..Its a great way too see the huge country off ours.
Oh for sure and a mature person coming along would be great.
Bloody bunks in the T-line Inters were not big either until I drove for Newman transport in a bigger cab T-Line, ACCO 3070 Eagle was like being on display to every one when trying to have a sleep
Ha ha. Being on display. That's awful. A bit like a 104.no privacy unless you ly down to get changed in the bunk.
@@RoadTrainAdventures That 3070 I was not permanent , just did one trip to Perth from Wagga and return then owner carried on back to Sydney , he had something he had to do, long time ago .
I see
Great vid Johnno,was awesome to hear your trucking adventures through the years! Stay safe out there mate.
Thanks Dexter. I haven't seen you around much lately.
@@RoadTrainAdventures Just finished trip around Australia on my Harley. Working out my next adventure!
Wow Friday sounds hard on the bum. I ride a motorbike and would love to do a trip but not around Australia.
Well said johno and well presented, hats off to ya mate
Thanks Corey. Always great to have you along
bloody awsome mate good onya
Awesome. Thanks Dean
Enjoyed listening to your story Jonno, ive never done road train work,done general freight with Marsdens (flat tops and tarps) and DJ transport (tautliners) back in the 90's got my MC licence in 2012 because the fella i was working for ran out of work for me, told me he had a mate who was looking for a fella to drive his Bdouble tipper carting grain So got my MC licence on that Friday and was driving a Bdouble Monday LOL did that cupla years and then got a job driving a Bdouble carting cattle did that for 3 years and loved it talk about fast and the furious LOL Now i have 1 thing left on my working life bucket list is to get into road trains BUT everyone wants atleast 2 years experience which makes it hard ey anyway good job i enjoy your stories keep up the good work ...
You should be right as you've been pulling b Doubles for a while. Most companies should give you a go with that experience.
@@RoadTrainAdventures Thanks Jonno ..
Anytime
Excellent experience 😮
Thanks again
Your an inspiration mate! I’m on hr and have 3 months till I can get my mc.
Awesome. Let me know how you go. What city are you in?
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
👍
Good story Johnno. Good that you have no set run, that keeps it interesting. We travel round camping in the canopy on my LC, accomodation is the same as you, we enjoy the country but we don’t get paid to do it though. We have never been to Deni though. I wouldn’t mind taking my WB Ute to the Ute muster one day. Jeff
Yeah cool. Where are you now? I'm at Hallett , South Australia heading to Perth
@@RoadTrainAdventures We only do trips, our last one earlier this year was a little one, The great ocean road from NSW and back through western Vic. Our home made canopy has been all over Australia though. It cost me about $2000 to build, looks like a tradies back but is very effective . Got to try and work out how to get someone else to pay for the fuel though like you. Jeff
Ha ha. Very some sponsorship some good. That would be great.