Donald Forsyth

Donald Percy Forsyth (Duck) was born in Toowoomba on the 21st January 1949 and has contributed to the transport industry for 35 years. Starting off as a diesel mechanic apprentice at the age of 15 he continued in roles with various companies including time as an owner driver. This contribution could not have been made without the love and support of his wife Kay and their three sons.

After completing his apprenticeship with Western Transport, Donald worked for Neil Mansell Transport for 17 years in many roles which included diesel mechanic, driver, truck pusher (overseeing rig moves) and supervised many a crew on pipeline moves and rig shifts.

In 1989 Donald became an owner driver, his trucks included Kenworth, Western Star and Mack. He sub-contracted to John Bain Transport hauling double and triple roadtrains of general freight which he continued for approximately seven years. This work was mainly Brisbane, Darwin, Kununurra and return. He took pride in his ability to always deliver freight on time and in perfect condition. His Western Star, while hauling John Bain VB Tautliners was affectionately known to many as the Camooweal Esky.

After selling his three trucks in 1997, Donald returned to the oil industry working for Century Drilling as a truck pusher in both Papua New Guinea and out in the South Australian desert. Whilst with Century he received safety awards on more than one occasion.

During his life Donald gained the respect of all who worked with him and was well known for his infectious personality and great sense of humour. He always led by example and stayed back to ensure the job was done. His experience and patience enabled him to teach young and old all aspects of oil rig movesand safe operation and maintenance of pole and winch trucks.

His tremendous contribution to the Australian Transport Industry saw him steering trucks over many a thousand of kilometres throughout this country. No matter where he pulled up would he would be sure to make an impression.

On the 18thNovember 1999 a genuine character of the transport industry was lost with Donald passing away in Moomba South Australia.