A Triumph of Collaboration: The Journey to Transforming a Stranded Truck into a Learning Resource for Future Technicians

A Triumph of Collaboration: The Journey to Transforming a Stranded Truck into a Learning Resource for Future Technicians

When Cyclone Gabrielle struck New Zealand’s North Island on February 14, 2023, it left devastation in its wake, particularly in the Hawke’s Bay region. Floodwaters surged through breached stop banks, inundating roads and transforming vehicles into stranded relics of the disaster. One of these was an 8×4 Volvo with a five-axle trailer, operated by a customer of TR Group. Submerged and battered by fast-flowing currents, the truck sat abandoned, its future looking bleak. Yet, thanks to an extraordinary collaboration between key industry partners and businesses, this truck has become an invaluable training resource for aspiring heavy commercial vehicle technicians.

At Truckstops, we understand that our work goes beyond servicing and parts; it’s about creating meaningful opportunities for learning and growth in our industry. When the flood-damaged truck was eventually towed to the Truckstops Napier yard, it was in a nearly unsalvageable state. Mud, silt, and river debris clogged its components, making it unusable. But this wasn’t the end for this vehicle.

The spark that ignited this project was a conversation between Chris Sedgwick, Central Regional Manager at Truckstops, and Shannan Smith, Napier Leading Hand. Shannan suggested that, if the truck couldn’t be repaired, perhaps it could be used as a training tool for our technicians. This led to an unexpected and very generous offer from TR Group, who recognised the value of this idea and generously donated the truck for our training initiatives. Without their support, this project would have remained just an idea, and the truck, unfortunately, would have been relegated to scrap.

In bringing this vision to life, the remarkable work of Total Truck Spray cannot go unmentioned. The team transformed the truck’s weather-beaten frame and cab with a meticulous respray, breathing new life into a vehicle that had been through such a traumatic experience. Capture Signs then added the finishing touch with exceptional signage, giving the truck a professional appearance that reflects the quality of training we aim to provide.

The commitment of TR Group, Total Truck Spray, and Capture Signs was instrumental in making this project possible. Their enthusiasm for turning this truck into a valuable training tool for the heavy commercial vehicle industry speaks volumes about the power of collaboration. Each of these partners understood that the truck’s new purpose was to provide hands-on training, enabling future technicians and parts specialists to gain critical experience.

Support also came from within Sime Motors, where key individuals like Kim Parkes, Peter Leathley, and Ferg Lusty championed the project from the start. Their backing highlighted the importance of investing in practical, on-the-ground training resources that would ultimately enhance our ability to provide top-quality service to customers.

Our Operations Manager, Trent Smith, and Group Accountant, Craig Woollett, both played significant roles in supporting this endeavour. Their commitment to ensuring the project’s success, even in the face of the budgeting challenges that come with economic downturn, exemplifies the team spirit that made this accomplishment possible. Additionally, the invaluable assistance of Volvo Trucks New Zealand and its technical crew enriched our knowledge and understanding, providing extensive training for our technicians and creating a solid foundation for the future.

A special thanks goes to the Truckstops Palmerston North workshop team, who took charge of the truck’s rebuild. Led by Wassa, our Palmerston North Leading Hand, they tackled what seemed an insurmountable task. Through determination, ingenuity, and a good deal of elbow grease, the team restored the truck to working condition, even getting the dual-clutch system operational!

Ultimately, this achievement is a testament to the power of relationships. As Willy from TR Group notes, “quality things like this only happen because of quality people and quality relationships.” It’s a statement that resonates with everyone who played a part in transforming this truck from a flooded wreck into a dynamic learning resource.

Thanks to the combined efforts of TR Group, Total Truck Spray, Capture Signs, Volvo Trucks New Zealand, and our Truckstops network, future heavy commercial technicians and parts specialists will have an incredible tool at their disposal. This truck, once destined for the scrapyard, will now be a lasting symbol of the commitment to developing skills and excellence within our industry.

Thank you to everyone involved in making this remarkable project a reality. Your contributions have laid the groundwork for a brighter future for our industry’s next generation.