Truck run breaks record

Tasmanian truck drivers have shown that their hearts are as big as their trucks with a record turnout for the 2026 annual truck run from Launceston to Longford.

Organised by the Tasmanian Truck Owners and Operators Association to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, the early morning gathering at Joe Pentridge’s yard at The Glebe included a visit by One Nation leader Pauline Hanson who not only revved up the drivers - but jumped in a cab for the convoy.

With 210 trucks winding their way to Longford on Sunday, where they were met by another 10 trucks on site, the total of 220 gleaming machines on show was a new record.

Among the line-up was vintage trucks, fire trucks, buses and an Army truck – some trucks carted machinery, hay, wood and equipment like cranes and tanks and the display stretched most of the way around the Longford Showground perimeter.

The crowd also broke records with more than 2200 people through the gate to enjoy the gleaming spectacle and a family day that included activities for the children and plenty of food and entertainment.

TTOOA secretary Julie Wise said that the money raised is still being counted, but the hard-working committee was just as thrilled to see the truck drivers catching up with each other, the kids laughing and having a great time and the community coming together.

“It’s particularly important with the RFDS running truckie health checks on the day and a variety of health assessments for families plus a smoking cessation nurse and QUIT representation on site.

“A highlight of the day was the mega raffle and a silent auction, and for the first time all 10,000 tickets were sold.”

The prestigious TTOOA Daniel (Porky) Saunders Award went to two of the hardest working and longest-serving supporters of the truck run in its 43-year history – Colin and Darryl Berne.

The Zane (Mick) Wooley Trophy for truck of the day was awarded to Mitch Scott and Elsewhere Haulage for their superbly presented Kenworth K200 with 1.7 million kilometres on the odometer.

Best Fleet of the Day went to Gradco and best Vintage Truck of the Day went to John and Claudia Walker who proudly displayed their 1962 Commer.