Each year as a prelude to the Alexandra Truck Show the next day, the Victorian Truck Drivers’ Memorial is held in the township to remember those in the industry who have passed on. This year, on Saturday, June 7, 17 names were added to the wall.
Thankfully the rain held off for the duration of the service, and after introductions by Bette Phillips-Campbell, Vice-Chair of the VTDM Committee, and presentations from other dignitaries, it came time for family members to speak, beginning with Belinda McGowan who spoke passionately of her father, Rod.
“Today, I have the honour of speaking about my dad, Rod McGowan, a man who gave more than 50 years to the transport industry and even more to the people in it,” said Belinda.
“Rod’s journey began as an apprentice fitter and turner at McGrath trailers. From those early days it was clear that trucks weren’t just his job – they were in his blood. He became one of the first in Victoria to earn an MC license and he played a part in shaping the licensing process used for many years. That achievement alone speaks to the trust others placed in his knowledge.
“Rod dedicated himself to a number of respected companies throughout his career: Team Scania, Westar and CRT Bulk Haulage to name but a few. Eventually he poured that same passion into his own business, Rod McGowan Transport. But it didn’t matter where he was, dad always had the same approach: hard work, don’t cut corners, and there is absolutely nothing that a few cans of degreaser and tyre shine can’t fix.
“Rod was the kind of man who could drive a B-double in reverse better than most people could drive forward. But more than that, he was a mentor. He loved showing younger drivers the ropes, passing down his knowledge with patience, humour and a deep sense of pride.
“His career was never just about trucks, it was about people. Rod made connections – strong, respectful, loyal ones. His generosity was boundless. If you needed a hand, Rod was there.
“One of his most memorable roles was his time working with Peter Brock. He spent years transporting Brock’s race cars across the country, but the way Rod told it, you’d think he was just doing any old job – no fuss, no need for applause, just quiet pride in a job well.
“Rod had a million stories worth telling, but he never needed applause. He just quietly made an impact and formed real bonds, letting his actions speak louder than any words ever could.
In retirement, after facing challenges with trauma and illness, Dad still gave much. He showed resilience, loyalty and generosity to anyone lucky enough to be in his world.
“Today we not only remember Dad’s contribution to transport – we honour his legacy. He believed in professionalism, camaraderie and teaching a next generation to take the wheel with pride. Dad’s presence was as strong as his handshake.
“As Rod McGowan’s name is added to the Victorian Drivers’ Memorial we remember him as not just Rod, the truck driver, but Rod the mate, the mentor, the dad.”
And then there was his beloved Ford LTL 9000. After a truck-to-truck collision wrote it off Rod did what most sane people wouldn’t – he bought it back and rebuilt it from the ground up. That truck was part of the family, his pride and joy. Belinda believes that some days he liked it more than the family.
Rod McGowan passed away on May 8, 2023.
Following Belinda’s speech, Melissa Johnson spoke of her brother, Robert, who passed recently on January 30 this year.
“A cherished son, a devoted brother, a beloved uncle and caring father, you poured your heart into your work, finding joy in the roar of engines and the gleam of trucks,” said Melissa.
“You wore your heart on your sleeve, and you embraced life with an open spirit and warm smile.
“Your journey was enriched by the friendships you forged, every mile travelled bought you closer to great mates, every connection testament to your kindness. You were always ready to lend a hand and a listening ear. You were a rock for those in need – a beacon of support.
“The laughter we shared and the memories we cherished from our carefree childhood days to the adventures of adulthood, are treasures I hold dear. For you taught us the value of friendship and the joy of sharing life’s simple pleasures.
“Though you may no longer walk beside us, your legacy echoes in our hearts – a guiding light in the shadows, reminding us to embrace each day with love and laughter, as you did so effortlessly.
“We celebrate you dear Robert, the spirit that will never fade and though we miss you deeply, your memory will forever inspire us in every laugh, every act of kindness and every moment that we hold dear.”
“Thank you for being there, for listening and for offering hope when it felt hard to find. Your support means the world to me.”
The Victorian Truck Drivers’ Memorial and the work done by Grief Work ensures that the stories of people like Rod McGowan and Robbie Johnson are not forgotten.
They remind us that this industry moves more than freight – it moves families, which builds communities and connects lives. These names on the wall represent Australia’s heartbeat – the unsung heroes of our roads.
- For more pictures from the event, grab your free copy of the June 20 issue of Big Rigs from the usual outlet.