The Birth of a Memorial: 2011 - today
In the heart of Alexandra's Rotary Park stands a testament to those who've given their lives keeping Australia moving - the Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial. But like many powerful tributes, it began with a simple conversation and a shared vision.
The Spark: A Community Coming Together
In 2011, Griefwork-Uniting were supporting a significant number of families who had lost a loved family member to the transport industry.
As with most aspects of the Griefwork support service, families were encouraged to meet in a supporting environment. It was during one of these meetings that the idea was born to hold a gathering for all Victorian families who had been impacted by a death in the transport industry - whether it was a truck crash incident, or illness related to the work of the drivers.
The Initial Committee
Following that spark of an idea, an initial committee was formed, tasked with bringing that idea to life.
The members of the initial committee were Faye Batt, Robert Batt, Katie Todd, Tessa Bollington, Barbra Maddern, Van Schaik, and Sandra Fraser Mason.
The Initial Committee.
The First Annual Memorial Service
After some meetings, the initial committee looked to Alexandra in regional Victoria, as an ideal location for a gathering of families. Alexandra was a central location for most family members and friends, and was also home to one of the largest Truck Shows in Victoria. The idea was that families, friends, and drivers could attend a service on the Saturday and enjoy the Alexandra Truck Ute and Rod Show on the Sunday.
In 2013, the committee reached out to Andrew Embling and Gordon Simpson, from Alexandra Events Corporation Ltd (host of the Alexandra Truck Ute and Rod Show) to assist with the service. Together, the committee, Andrew and Gordon, and Rev Paul Creasy created a sacred space for that initial service, which was attended by more than 350 people.
At that service, Andrew Embling offered to build a wall to support all families who lost a love one to a work-related truck death.
The Honour Board
We acknowledge the support of Ms Toni Carter, from Essence Coffee Lounge, who hosted those initial committee meetings in Alexandra. Toni has strong connections to the transport industry, and her support was generous and kind.
It was Toni's suggestion that the committee create an honour board to display in her café. The Honour Board reflects the founding families for the annual service.
The Honour Board at Essence Coffee Lounge in Alexandra.
John "Mossy" Moss (stonemason) artfully directing volunteers.
Hallam Truck Centre presenting a cheque donation to the VTDM.
Building of the Wall
In 2013, the concept and building of the Wall began in earnest at the site in Rotary Park, Alexandra.
Creative Ministries Network/GriefWork Uniting held a blessing of the site, where some 50 dignitaries attended, including The Mayor and CEO of Murrindindi Shire, as well as Doug McMillan (Chair of the National Memorial), and many others.
The design was finalised, based on the concept by the founding committee members, and construction commenced with generous donations of time, materials, and support from many local businesses and individuals. The collective efforts of all involved were recognised at a BBQ when the wall was completed, and many of these individuals and businesses are also recognised in the signboard located in the rotunda immediately adjacent to the Wall.
Of special note, Hallam Truck Centre offered to financially support the cost of the plaques at that time, to ensure there was no cost to families who were commemorating loved ones on the Wall. This warm relationship is still strong today, and with the added support of the CMV Group Foundation, there is still no cost to families to place plaques on the Wall.
In June 2014, the Wall was officially opened by Hon. Gary Blackwood, Secretary to the Minister for Transport and the first plaques were placed on the wall.
2014 to Present
Each year in June, the Annual Memorial Service serves as an opportunity for families, friends, and colleagues to come together to celebrate the lives of their loved ones commemorated on the wall. The service is also well attended by members of the transport industry, as well as delegations from other memorials, including Tasmania, South Australia, and the National Truck Drivers Memorial in Tarcutta, NSW.
But equally importantly, the Wall serves as a perpetual memorial and sacred space for our community at all times. Not a day goes by without visitors browsing the Wall, reading the plaques, and taking time to commemorate the many drivers listed on the Wall.
Annual Memorial Service, held in Rotary Park Alexandra.
Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial Incorporated
In 2020, an incorporated association was formed to maintain the Memorial Wall and to conduct the Annual Memorial Service. This association is made up of representatives from GriefWork, Alexandra Events Corporation Ltd, and the Community.
We acknowledge the special work of Ms Margaret Rae, who steered us through the incorporation process.
Looking Forward
What began as a local initiative has grown into Victoria's premier tribute to fallen transport workers. Each year, hundreds gather for the annual memorial service, sharing stories, supporting each other, and ensuring that the sacrifices of our truck drivers are never forgotten.
As we continue to grow, our commitment remains unchanged: to provide a place of solace, remembrance, and recognition for the families and friends of those we've lost.
Contact Us
We’re here to help. Call us or use the contact form to speak to a Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial representative about nominating a truck driver to be commemorated on the Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial.
You can call us on 0400 000 000.
Or you can email us at [email protected]
Postal Address
7 Tregunter Street
Ascot Vale
VIC 3032
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