Switching from a decade-long career in medical imaging to transport just over three years ago, this third generation truck driver is excited to be behind the wheel of a brand new 780hp Mack Super-Liner.
Luke Read was handed the keys to the new truck just yesterday. Working for Davidge Transport, based in Temora, NSW, he’s been busy working the harvest.
Luke’s eventual journey into trucking was inspired by his grandfather Alick Earl, who ran his own transport business – and also had an affinity for the Mack brand.
As a kid, Luke recalls waking up at 3am on school holidays to go for a ride in the truck with his pop. Luke’s father Jim Read also went on to have his own truck too.
The new 780hp Mack Super-Liner packs a powerful punch. Image: Luke ReadBut despite that early introduction to the world of trucking, Luke followed a completely different path. It wasn’t until Covid hit that he decided to re-evaluate things and have a crack at getting into what he really wanted to do.
Luke got his truck licence in September 2022 and upgraded to his MC in December 2023.
His first truck driving role was with Madden’s Transport doing general freight. But in early 2023, the business closed its doors after more than 50 years, so its owner Tony Madden could retire.
From there, Luke worked for Paul Lawton Freight and then for Rocky Lamattina & Sons, before starting his current role at Davidge Transport.
“I left Lamattina’s to be closer to home and we are still great friends. They totally understood that it was tough living seven hours away from the farm,” said Luke. “I’m now 40 minutes from the Davidge Transport yard.”
Luke is currently working the harvest at Temora, NSW. Image: Luke ReadThe business is run by Steve and Sam Davidge. “They are an amazing, beautiful family, with both their sons driving in the business also,” added Luke.
Having the opportunity to drive the powerful new Mack Super-Liner is a dream come true for Luke. It’s powered by Mack’s most powerful engine yet, the 780hp MP11 engine, delivering 2800 lb-ft torque.
“Oh my goodness, there’s not a single truck in its league. The torque is unrivalled, it’s hard to believe that it can be so far ahead of the pack,” Luke said.
“My Poppy Alick Earl was a diehard true blue Mack man to his core and I’m so proud to be driving the best Mack has to offer.”
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