Ross & John Dow
Inducted into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame in 2021.
Ross Dow was born in September, 1960 and his brother, John Dow was born in January 1964 both in Adelaide, South Australia. Their father, George Dow, founded Hi-Trans Express in 1969, carting groceries and mining equipment to Broken Hill, New South Wales and back loading wool to Adelaide. Since then, the company has grown to become one of Australia’s major national freight operators with capital city depots and a vast regional network.
When George retired in 1998, Ross and John became managing directors and have proudly carried on their family legacy. Under their leadership, Hi-Trans Express built upon its strong foundations and has a high reputation for providing reliable and cost-effective services.
Ross and John also made the company an industry leader in adopting new technology systems. They were quick to use the Global Positioning System (GPS) as well as digital track and trace systems; via long range forklift scanners, Hi-Trans Express customers can access real time visuals on the movement of their freight. The Hi-Trans Express fleet also utilises industry leading safety and compliance systems including the “Guardian Halo'' which monitors drivers’ eye movements to prevent fatigue incidents. The fleet is also monitored 24/7 for GPS speed alerts and rest breaks to encourage safer driving behaviours.
Most recently, Ross and John have committed to operating a carbon neutral fleet by 2025. Progress towards this goal centres around their fleet replenishment program, ensuring all new fleet purchases are Euro 6 emission standards or better with the investigation of electric and alternative vehicle options. There are currently 17 Euro 6 standard Mercedes Benz Actros prime movers in operation, all equipped with the latest safety and technology innovations.
As Managing Directors, Ross & John have ensured their business is an industry leading force with proactive technology, safety and sustainability commitments. They have also inspired and enlisted the next generation of Dows in the Hi-Trans Express business, paving the way for their family legacy to continue well into the future. Both Ross and John have dedicated their careers to the transport industry and most importantly, to the people behind the trucks.