They are one of the most recognisable transport companies throughout the Clarence Valley with their distinctive red and white colour scheme.
Their fleet is frequently seen on local roads and motorways, and their name is regularly spoken of and widely praised.
As Cromack Transport celebrates 70 years in business, they are also celebrating a proud family history, a growing legacy as a locally owned and operated operation, and a continual commitment to their valued customers.
When Fred Cromack and his cousin Kevin Tranter started the business as Cromack and Tranter in 1951, they commenced with a small fleet of two trucks and primarily transported asbestos from the Baryulgil Mines, and deliveries from the Grafton Brewery to numerous locations across Western NSW.
The business soon shifted its focus to hauling operations in and out of Queensland, a service the business continues to provide in 2021, and quickly gained a strong following as a professional and reliable local transport service.
Following the retirement of his cousin in 1977, Fred continued operating the family business and formally changed its name to Cromack Transport on April 1, 2006.
A passionate trucking enthusiast, Fred was inducted into the National Road Transport Hall of Fame in the same year, and following his passing in 2009, his beloved transport company was passed to his sons Jeff and Graeme, who proudly continue the legacy he began in 1951.
Cromack Transport currently employs more than 40 staff across three locations, and their small fleet of two trucks has grown progressively to include 22 prime movers, 31 trailers and nine rigid trucks.
Three of Fred’s grandchildren are also involved in the business with Brenton working as a driver, and Tahlia and Chiveau working in the office.
Being adaptable and changing to meet the market needs has been crucial to the growth of the business.
A key company policy at Cromack Transport is to ensure clients get to know the staff who carry and care for their freight.
Cromack Transport carry sawn timber and timber products to Brisbane, with return trips carrying groceries, general freight, hardware and various other items to businesses throughout the Clarence Valley and Coffs Coast region, as well as contracted runs to Western NSW.
As Cromack Transport celebrates 70 years, Graeme proudly revealed he and his brother are very happy the business is still going strong, “with 70 years behind us and hopefully another 70 plus with the next generations coming through.”
“The local community have supported the business from the beginning, and with that support it has allowed us to continue being locally owned and operated,” he said.
“The future of the business is in good hands, and the third and even fourth generation are eager to continue with the running of the business while the plans for myself (and Jeff) will probably involve retirement and a lot of fishing.”