Jeff Fletcher

Inducted into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame at reunion 2010.

Jeff Fletcher began driving as a 16 year old in the days when licences were not as high tech as today. His first driving job was doing deliveries around Melbourne in a three tonne Chevrolet tray truck

In 1956 he worked for his brother Sid at Fletchers Freighters carting fruit juices out of Berri, SA to all parts of Australia. At one stage four brothers, including Brian and Ray, drove their trucks.

Jeff also drove, carting rabbits, from outback NSW and SA to Melbourne. In 1961 Jeff married Mary Harrington and despite driving the many kilometres and time away  there were three children and a family to raise; Stephen, Pauline and Carole. Mary became the family manager. From 1965 Jeff drove for several truck companies including Jack and Bill O'Connell driving to Sydney. Moving to Werribee in Melbourne's outer west, he joined Portogallos carting general to Adelaide driving an International R190 and later a Mercedes Benz 1418.

Jeff's proudest, and by far his best job, was when he joined J.W. Bromage in 1970. He carted fuel out of Newport to all parts of Australia, mainly the Riverina in NSW.  Bromage's Mack Trucks were soon the envy of the industry. Joe Bromage always had the best trucks turning them over every two years. In 1985 Jeff drove the second 500 horsepower Mack Superliner imported into Australia. Joe paid very well and always looked after his drivers. In 1986 J.W. Bromage was purchased by Cootes Transport where Jeff remained until 1998. Still driving, Jeff delivered goods around Victoria and drove for his mates when needed. Currently he is driving for Sita Buses taking 20 challenged students to and from school. Jeff recalls many good times on the road.