John Bignell

Inducted into the Rimula Hall of Fame at ReUnion 2015.

John (JB) Bignell born on the 9th July 1953 in Mount Gambier. JB's father was a truck driver, but JB always wanted to become a mechanic, and in 1970 he was offered an apprenticship as a diesel mechanicat OG Roberts & Co. This was the start of his lifetime career in the heavy vehicle industry which is continuing today after 45 years.

During this time JB was employed by Barry Maney Ford as the Service Manager/Sales and Service Advisor of the Truck Division. He began his own business as the Detroit Diesel agent for the Green Triangle area of the South East of South Australia and Western Victoria, and is currently employed as Maintenance Manager for Frnnell Forestry applying his wealth of industry knowledge to the fleet of B-Double log and chip truck combinations. JB has worked on Caterpillar, Detroit, Cummins, Hino, EatonTransmissions, Meritor and Dana Rear Axles along with various other susspensions and steering systems. In the mid 1990's JB worked in conjunction with Kenworth and Hydrasteer to rectify alignment issues being experienced in their vehicles. JB's innovation and ability to problem solve, modify and adapt systems to rectify the fault was highlighted during this time. The method JB devised was adopted by Hydrasteer and Kenworth. His knowledge and expertise began being passed on to other organisations.

Of the many changes JB has witnessed, the one that stands out as a highlight of his illustrious carrer is the introduction of electronic engine controls, the early stages of todayss current computerised engines and advancement in this technology. He enjoyed working with Detroit system and electronic engines in the mid 1980's, Detroit being one of the first companies to develop and introduce electronic controlledd engines.

Kenworth has recognised JB's practical knowledge and many years of outstanding service by installing him as an Associate of their Institute ( I.E.C.S.M). JB has been awarded an Excellence in Customer Service Award from Kenworth which is testament to his personality and belief to go above and beyond what is required to ensure customer satisfaction.