John Pearson

Inducted into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame at Reunion 2005.
John Pearson started driving an AR 180 International in 1960 progressing to AA 160 Internationals and R-190 Inters in the Swan Hill region.  John mainly carted onions, pumpkins and various produce to numerous interstate markets.  Eventually John purchased an 8-tonne Commer Tray truck in 1964 and went out on his own.
John mainly carted onions and every weekend he took a load of bagged wheat strictly 'under the lap' to Melbourne. This continued until the advent of wheat quotas in 1969-70.With interstate wheat trade flourishing in this period, John had an opportunity for grain haulage that continues to this day.  In 1972 a Bedford GM was purchased.  This was a reliable and trustworthy vehicle, which when coupled to a freighter-adjustable widespread bogie trailer, saw loads well in excess of manufacturer's recommendations.  Despite the best efforts of the Transport Regulation Board, the business continued to flourish out of Koraleigh, NSW.  The 1970s saw an expansion into grain storage with the installation of weighbridges and storage sheds with no guarantee, at the time, of a storage contract to justify the investment. Today John owns a very successful grain storage, transport and merchandise business comprising a fleet of mainly Kenworths.  More than 90% of his cartage comprises grain from his own stores, with trips to Melbourne and backloads five days a week.  The business is primarily managed by his son Darren, and daughter Kristie, enabling John to pursue his dream of restoring his original Bedford GM.Through sheer determination, honesty and courage John (along with his supportive wife Joyce) has established a flourishing business that is very well-respected throughout the community and the transport and grain industries.