Masterton big rig takes supreme prize

TRUCKIN': Johnny Burling in front of the 50-tonne Kenworth truck which won the Dan Macmillan Memorial Trophy for Best Truck at a trucking competition last weekend. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

Keeping a 50-tonne truck clean is no easy task -- but it's a job one Masterton truckie takes pride in.

Johnny Burling's 2014 Kenworth nine-axle freight truck last weekend won the Dan Macmillan Memorial Trophy for Best Truck in the Mitre 10 Mega Ride in a Truck Day Hawke's Bay Truck Show, taking out the supreme prize over 230 other trucks.

It was the second year in a row the Waingawa-based Burling Transport has been recognised, with the same truck last year awarded the People's Choice Award at the Kenworth 50th anniversary competition in Tauranga.

Mr Burling said he was surprised to have taken out the top prize, as taking part in the event was a last-minute decision.

"I just went along because I just enjoy doing it but I wasn't expecting to win anything -- it was pretty overwhelming."

He had been dropping off some freight in the area and had decided to stop in at the event, which also offered kids the chance to ride a big rig as part of a truck convoy.

Not expecting the win, Mr Burling had almost missed the judge's announcement.

"I didn't quite hear him, and then he called out Burling Transport and I was just overwhelmed. I couldn't believe it."

The trucks were judged on the cleanliness of the chassis, cab, tyres and curtain sides.

Mr Burling, who has been working in the industry for 25 years, said there was "endless polishing" and a whole lot of work involved in keeping the truck in top condition.

He cleaned the truck most nights, seeing it as part of keeping up a good perception for the family-owned business.

"It's just image, it looks good -- image is everything.

"You want to start the way you will continue."

Mr Burling's father, Fred, said it was good to see his son's work recognised.

"It annoys me sometimes, him out there polishing it, but it really is a credit."

The truck is one in a fleet of about 12 owned by the business, which delivers freight including wool, timber and fertiliser throughout the country.

The award for best truck included a trophy, certificate and a prize pack with a $1000 voucher from Bay Tyres.

Money raised at the event went towards the Little Elms Charitable Trust, which provides accommodation for families with children suffering from cancer.