Derek Nathan

Inducted into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame at Reunion 2006.

Derek Nathan began his transport career as an owner-driver in 1970.  He was a trail-blazer when the northwest was developing and many roads were not even formed.  Reporting to local police on departures and arrivals in out of the way places was an essential safety net when travelling in an area of no designated roads.

On his many journeys in the northwest he had some great experiences and some not so great.  On a good day he would have half a dozen punctures which were mended on the roadside, and, on a bad day he would mend several more.

Most meals were cooked on the roadside, by the camp fire and occasionally, with another truckie for company.  After 12 months, Derek moved into the furniture removal area of transport and commenced driving to the eastern states returning every fortnight thus expanding his client-base.

After many years and thousands of kilometres he built a depot to expand his business.  He still drove to the eastern states and country WA, operated his depot and was very involved with the transport industry associations.  Derek was a founding member of transport organizations and has held the office of councillor, committee member, vice-chairman, vice-president, and president of both local and national organizations.  Derek is currently chairman of Transport Forum WA and services on the Board of Management of the Australian Association in Canberra.

Derek and this wife Karen operated a very successful furniture removal business until November, 2004, when the business was sold.  Derek is still very involved in the transport industry and although he is retired, still drives the occasional triple on the odd run for his son Todd.