Frank Weis

Inducted into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame at Reunion 2012.

Frank Weis has been involved in the transport industry for most of his life. In the past he was known as Weisel but these days is affectionately nicknamed Big Fellow. He operates Frank Weis Transport in Park Ridge, Brisbane mostly carrying local general freight and doing some tipper work. Frank is supported by his partner Sally who is involved in operations, mechanics, office administration and piloting.

In 1981 Frank purchased his first truck which was a 1979 Scania. It set him back $49,000 for the truck and trailer. He sub-contracted to R&H Transport carting nitropil to the north Queensland mines. He believes it was the time spent with this company that set him on his way to success as an owner driver and operator. Since then, his fleet has included a 1986 Scania tandem tipper, a 1986 Western Star prime mover, a 1992 Western Star prime mover, a 1982 Kenworth cab over, a 1979 Atkinson tandem tipper and his most recently acquired 1954 International pick-up truck.

Frank looks back on his early days on the road and remembers that it was all a lot of fun and much more carefree than present times. The roadhouses he recalls as having a great aura serving tucker second to none. He treasures the life-long friendships he made back then. Frank jokes that his one 'bad' memory was when he was heading north, the girls were always hitchhiking southbound. Frank believes that the industry is changing so much and that every day there is a new challenge to face as everything becomes over regulated. Frank is keen to bring young people into the industry and willing to help younger drivers understand that they will succeed if they are dedicated and work hard despite the pitfalls of the industry.