There are some truckies out there that know how to take proper care of their trucks, keeping them so ridiculously clean, it’s a wonder if they do any work at all.
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Longford Truck Run was held on Sunday March 2 and event organiser Julie Wise says sparkling chrome continued to blow her away at the Tasmanian trucking event, considering the type of work those big rigs do.
The Longford Truck Run started 42 years ago with a convoy of trucks, a handful of community minded folks, and a dream to help those in need.
“My dad created this event all those years ago, along with other members of the Tasmanian Truck Owners and Operators Association because they wanted to do something special for the community,” Julie says.
“Back then, a couple of members had disabled children, and they attended a school that didn’t receive any funding from the government, but they needed help.”
“They decided they would hold a truck run to raise some money and help them get the things they needed. That’s where it all started.”
Over the years the event has changed locations, grown in size and evolved in its mission, now shifting its focus to support the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS).
“There’s a lot of people out there in the community that have been helped by the RFDS, or they know somebody who has been helped, so there’s a great deal of respect for them.”
The Longford Run is filled with activities to engage the entire family, from the RFDS Slushie Bike to the air ambulance simulator, the custom dental van, and the Health Hub Bus, there were plenty of interactive experiences.
Volunteers from local organisations like the
Youngtown Rotary Club and the Wimmer Hill Lions Club served up delicious food, while live music set the tone for a festive, community driven atmosphere.
“It was so nice to see so many smiles, there were a lot of kids this year and to see the look on their faces as they watch the trucks roll in and honk their horn is too precious,” she says.
“Our family and friends all volunteer because of our love of trucks. It’s something the community can benefit from, not just the RFDS. Truckies can have the day off, catch up with old mates, have a look at other people’s vehicles and enjoy their time.”
The final fundraising count is not yet completed, but it’s believed over $40,000 was raised at this year’s event, however over the last four years alone, the Longford Truck Run has raised more than $120,000 for the RFDS, and over its 42-year history surpassed a total of $600,000.
This year Longford attracted around 1,500 people, with 187 trucks rumbling into the grounds for the big day.
The trucks, often shining and meticulously cleaned by their proud owners, were the centrepiece, but it was the atmosphere bustling with families, children, and volunteers that truly made the event unforgettable.
Julie reflects on the heartwarming moment of the event, when a little girl won some raffle prizes.
“She was about two or three, walking with her dad holding a box in one hand and a little parcel in the other, and you could see the excitement on her face,” she says.
“While yes, it is mainly about the trucks, it was originally about doing it for the kids, that’s what this show is all about.”
For the town of Longford, the truck run is a chance to showcase its hospitality, and the local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors.
As people stop by the shops, chat with neighbours and share in the excitement, there’s a palpable buzz in the air.
“The community comes together in such a meaningful way,” Julie says. “Longford has become the heart of this event, and we’ve created something that people look forward to.”
Julie is quick to recognise her team and the group of volunteers who make the day possible.
“We wrangle our families into helping us, and every year they tell us they’re never doing it again, only to help out again the next year,” she laughs.
“At the end of the day, we all work together, put aside our differences and unite, no matter what any of us have thought or felt along the way, we make it happen.”
“We’ve made a lot of people happy, which makes us happy, and keeps us coming back year after year.”
2025 Awards:
Donation of Service: Julie Wise presented with the David (Porky Saunders) Trophy
Truck of the Day: Tas Mulch presented with the Zane (Mick) Wooley Trophy
Best Fleet of the Day: Recycal presented with Fleet Trophy
Vintage Trophy: Mr C Campbell presented with Best Vintage Truck of the Day
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