70 | Transport firm is still a family affair Burnell Son Transport has grown to 11 drivers and trucks. Rosa Watson RURAL SERVICES » Burnell & Son Transport Ltd What began as a small owner-driver business has grown over 25 years to a well-established family-operated transport company that covers the length of the country. Wayne and Kathy Burnell established Christchurch-based Burnell & Son Transport in 2000, selling their first home to put down a deposit on a Foden 4475 eight-wheeler with a four-axle trailer. “We had our first child Jacob at the time who inspired the company’s name,” Wayne told Rural South magazine. It started out covering area from Christchurch to Invercargill but quickly expanded to cover the entire North and South Island, he said. Today, it has grown to 11 drivers and trucks with a fleet that includes flat decks, curtainsiders and quad semi-trailers that can transport general goods from hay, baleage, steel, timber and posts. It also has bulk tippers that are a mix of lift out side tippers and high cube curtainsider tippers purpose built for a range of applications including bulk fertiliser, stock food, coal, woodchip, and grain, and 2 transporter unit set up with a low loader trailer with ramps that widens to various widths, perfect for carting items such as machinery, drills and oversized loads. Its scope of services has evolved into other areas over the years, Wayne said. “We started out focusing mostly on freight for the agricultural sector and we have expanded into machinery cartage.” The company takes pride in its role supporting both agricultural and industrial sectors across the country, and has developed strong partnerships with all companies we work with. “Our ability to adapt to the changing industry demands has been key to our growth and success.” A common issue in the industry was attracting young, skilled drivers, Wayne said. “(With) extra strict regulations & all the red tape it becomes less appealing to the younger generations. “However, we remain optimistic and see these changes as opportunities to increase professionalism in the industry.” It remains a proudly family-orientated business, with the couple’s three children - Jacob, Isaac and Summer – all building careers alongside the company. “Jacob now works as the company’s dispatcher and Isaac is a licensed diesel mechanic at HDPS. “Summer is going down the psychology path but does casual work in the office alongside my daughter-in-law Rhianna who manages the accounts.” The family has a new generation emerging, with the arrival of two grandchildren, Addison and Mackenzie and another grandchild on the way. 027 415 7073 mj.mdengineering@gmail.com fb.com/MDEngineeringLimited Specialising in custom builds and repairs of truck bodies and trailers Proudly supporting Burnell & Son Transport Ltd The company sets itself apart with its deep family roots and connections within the rural community, Wayne said. “The family’s involvement at all levels of the business has fostered a strong commitment to quality service. We pride ourselves on maintain a modern fleet and meeting the evolving standards over the years. He credits his father Ronald Burnell for inspiring his passion for trucking. Wayne hopes to see the business continue to grow while maintaining its family values. “Our future plans include continuing investment in our fleet upgrades and exploring new sectors within the transport industry.”
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