Hartwigs Trucks 100 years commemorative feature

Celebrating a century of moving the region

Hartwigs marks 100 years of creating “customers for life”

BUSINESSES across the Goulburn Valley region have been making a name for themselves in not only quality of service but their offerings and longevity. One such business, family owned and operated Hartwigs Trucks, first set its roots in Wagga Wagga in 1923 followed by Shepparton in the early 2000s, and spanning five generations, Hartwigs has gone from strength-to-strength over the past 100 years.

Beginning with just a simple dream of servicing the new and evolving motor industry, Hartwigs was established during 1923 as B G Hartwig & Co Pty Ltd in the main street of Wagga Wagga by brainchild, Berthold George Hartwig. Berthold soon grew his business from a garage servicing motor vehicles for Chrysler, Plymouth, Fargo, Morris Cars, Morris Commercials and Morris Utilities to being awarded a five-year distributorship from York Motors, which was partially responsible for catapulting the business to the success it is today.

Through the Penske Commercial Vehicle global operation, with whom they have a strong connection, Hartwigs also sells Western Star Trucks, MAN Truck & Bus and Dennis Eagle via its On-Highway Division and Detroit make up a large part of the On-Highway segment.

The story of how Hartwigs was born is an interesting tale that all stemmed from love. Berthold met the love of his life but due to being a ‘rabbiter’ by trade at the time, his soon to be wife’s parents didn’t deem him suitable enough to marry her. Berthold decided then and there that he would open a garage in the main street of Wagga Wagga offering servicing and repairs.

Following the opening of the garage in 1923, Berthold’s son, Charlie began working in the business in 1932 followed by his sons, Robert and Jock in 1978. At that time, Robert and Jock divested out of all car franchises to switch the focus of the business to trucks.

In 1988 and following in family tradition, Robert’s son, Tim also joined Wagga Wagga based business in Dobney Avenue and it was from that point on, manufacturers developed their products which became aligned to the brands sold within the company today.

Over the years the business continued to grow and opened branches in Albury, Dubbo, Griffith, Orange, Queanbeyan, Shepparton and Wagga Wagga.

Tim’s son, Charlie joined the business in 2015 and together, the father and son duo were able to rationalise the company back to Queanbeyan and Shepparton in 2020.

Earlier this century Hartwigs moved into the agricultural and construction industries when appointed authorised dealers for the Case IH Agriculture, Case Construction Equipment and Hardi Sprayer full range of products.

Fast-forwarding to today, Hartwigs employs approximately 45 people across its sites in Queanbeyan

and Shepparton (over 20 in Shepparton alone) and has continued its focus on delivering best practice sales, service and parts and growing the region through offering the latest and greatest in the heavy-vehicle industry, such as the new Western Star X-Series range of trucks and MAN’s new truck generation.

Tim Hartwig said, “We have a passion for trucks.

“There have been a lot of changes in the industry from manufacturers and customer base and over the years, moving from cars to specifically trucks in the late 1970s early 1980s was a pivotal change.”

Charlie Hartwig said, “Our mission statement has always been ‘customers for life.’ That means being the best service provider for your brand partners, your customers, all your stakeholders and being the best person to work for for your employees. That’s what we try and embody and that’s what we will continue to try and embody.”

IT’S ALL IN THE FAMILY... Standing proud in front of their display at MOVE Shepparton are, from left Charlie, Robert and Tim Hartwig

100 years is an exceptional milestone within the industry and we’d like to congratulate Hartwigs.

Doug Shand Product ManagerWestern Star Trucks, Penske Australia

Generations of business success

Berthold George Hartwig

Born 1896 (Deceased)

Charles Hartwig Snr

Born 1916 (Deceased)

Robert Hartwig

Born 1937

Tim Hartwig

Born 1962

Charlie Hartwig

Born 1991

Jock Hartwig

Born 1940 (Deceased)

Charlie Hartwig, Dealer Principal Hartwigs Family Tree

Having always been around the truck dealerships whilst growing up, Charlie formally started in a full-time New Truck Sales role in November 2015 with Hartwigs Trucks Queanbeyan, NSW dealership.

He quickly progressed to take on the Branch Manager role for that dealership in the following year, then into Group Truck Sales Manager in January 2019 also looking after the Sales Management for all five selling dealerships that were operating at the time as well as maintaining the Branch Manager’s position at the Queanbeyan dealership. Throughout this period the company went through a re-structure and rationalised the business back to the two remaining locations at Queanbeyan and Shepparton. In early 2020 this restructure was finalised and Charlie then moved into the Dealer Principal’s role, enabling his father, Tim Hartwig to retire and hand over the reins.

Charlie said, “Hartwigs Trucks company mission statement is “Customers for Life” which features in a lot of our branding, this is what we have tried to embody as an Australian family owned and operated business since 1923.

“The Australian Transport industry is

growing, and the demand for freight services in all applications generally outstrips what the industry can provide, this is particularly noticeable in the country’s main regional hubs like the Goulburn Valley.

“Hartwigs Trucks has always been a support centre for the regional Australian transport industry, and we plan to continue supporting our customary local businesses, so they can in turn support their customers.

“When this is done well, through supporting each other in business, all parties are able to benefit and grow together which supports the local economy overall.”

team

Celebrating 100 years of continious service

Simon Calogero, Sales/Branch Manager

Having started with Hartwigs in October 2004 when the Shepparton dealership opened, Simon’s stint with Hartwigs began in a technician role that quickly transitioned through the business into his current position as branch manager. Simon said, “Hartwigs is a successful Australian family owned and operated business that I can see reaching another 100 year milestone.

“Our Goulburn Valley is a large transport hub and Hartwigs being a family-owned company is imperative to our area with customers front of mind.”

from left is, Parts Sales Team Member Ryan Calogero, New Truck Diesel Mechanic Steve Johnson, New Truck Diesel Mechanic Vaughan Whatley, Mechanic Brendan Quigley, Mechanic Martin Bull, Mechanic Alistair Holmes, Service Manager Steve Frik, Workshop Foreman Nick Mancini, Branch Manager Simon Calogero, Mechanic David Byron, Principal Dealer Charlie Hartwig, Mechanic Bailey Gow, Mechanic Jack Griffin-Close, Parts Interpreter Mark Innocenti, Service Advisor Kerrie Towers, Parts Interpreter David Norris, Service Advisor Alison Huffer and Assistant Parts Manager Jeff Gillespie. Absent: Russell Eden

The who’s who at Hartwigs Shepparton

Absent: Bailey Gow

Transair & Electrics would like to congratulate Hartwigs on their 100th Year Anniversary, such a great achievement.

Transair has been affiliated with Hartwigs since we started business almost 18 years ago. Based in Bendigo, Victoria, Transair & Electrics have been operating for 18 years. Our auto electrical and air conditioning business specialises in sleeper cab air conditioning and the customisation of truck bunks.

Transair supplies and fits Icepack Diesel-powered air conditioning systems, Fresco 3000 battery- powered refrigerated coolers, Coolabahs and Webasto Diesel Heaters. We also offer rack-mounted icepacks behind the cabin with toolboxes, dog boxes or water tanks, along with auxiliary bunk air-conditioning to assist with factory fitted air conditioning performance.

Along with our air conditioning and heating units we also offer a wide range of options to modify the interior layouts by adding cupboards, shelves, tables, draws, microwaves, TV/DVD kits, inverters, fridges freezers, larger beds, and more storage. Whatever the request, we are more than happy to work with the customers’ needs.

Transair have developed space saving ideas in trucks such as our 16 litre underseat draw fridges, specifically designed to replace standard passenger seat bases in selected trucks. It provides truck drivers with the option to have it set as a fridge or freezer depending on their needs.

Keeping your food and drinks cold and all at your fingertips. Keeping warm in the colder weather has never been so easy with the popular Webasto Air Top 2000 diesel powered cabin heater. This unit runs off the truck’s diesel, is whisper quiet and uses very little power to run during those cold nights.

For enquiries, please contact our office on 03 4432 8477

oremail admin@taae.com.au

7 Trantara Ct, East Bendigo

Adapting to a changing industry

AS THE motor and transport industries move toward more sustainable options such as fuel efficiency and enhanced safety features, it is imperative that businesses such as Hartwigs continue to move with technological advancements. And that is exactly what the business intends to do.

The current market is showing trends towards vehicles packed with safety features and design and technology adaptations which lower fuel consumption and this is proving to be the focus for many in the industry moving forward.

Branch manager, Simon Calogero said, “Exciting times are ahead with the recent release of the Aussie-exclusive 48X model with 36” sleeper that is genuine 34 pallet, 26 meter B/ double compliant prime mover. Both products now have a full suite of proprietary safety systems, class leading and backed by factory warranty.

“100 years in business is an amazing milestone and personally I am proud to have been a part of it for the majority of my working career,” Simon said.

Director, Tim Hartwig said, “It’s been remarkable to make it to 100 years.

“Over the next 100 years I can see change again. We look forward to learning to adapt with that change and move our product bases throughout our networks that work well, and hold on for the ride.

“As well as safety features and focussing on how to obtain better fuel efficiencies, there is a movement toward battery technology, but we still have a long way to go with regards to the technology giving us the distances required and the weights that are needed. We need to clean the environment and that’s a definite so how we do that and how we work towards that will be interesting,” Tim said.

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD...

Simon Calogero (Branch Manager) and Jarrod Rankin (Customer)

Driving the Goulburn Valley heavy-vehicle industry

FOR over 20 years, Hartwigs has been an integral part of the Goulburn Valley, helping to drive the heavyvehicle industry and provide the much-needed vehicles and servicing that other local businesses require to continue to thrive.

From Bridgestone Solar City Tyers, Kialla Lawn and Garden, Stanhope’s Douglas Livestock Services, Rankin Trans, Michel Signs, Holmes Tilt Tray and Bus Hire, A1 Concrete, WB Hunter & Rural, Goulburn Mini Skips, Goodfellows Car and Truck Rental, Kreskas Bros Transport, Cleaves Garden Supplies and more, it’s clear that Hartwigs holds a necessary and special place in the hearts of many local industries.

Owner/operator of Rankin Trans, Leigh Rankin recently purchased Western Star 48X, which features a DD16, 600HP engine and Detroit 12 speed automatic gearbox that is mainly used for towing B/Doubles and fridge vans.

Leigh said, “We are very happy with the truck. We’ve had a lot of Western Stars and we find them a great product.

“It’s good that they have a new product

out with the additional safety features. It’s certainly a big plus for our drivers.

“We have had a 20 year relationship with Hartwigs. They are a great family company and we trust their expertise; they know what they are talking about,” Leigh said.

But it’s not just the products and

services offered by Hartwigs that benefits the region, with over 20 local staff helping run operations.

We have had a 20 year relationship with Hartwigs. They are a great family company and we trust their expertise; they know what they are talking about.

One of the newest to join the team has been Shepparton branch manager, Simon Calogero’s son, Ryan, as a spare parts interpreter.

Leigh Rankin Owner/operator, Rankin Transport

Beginning as a casual staff member last year, Ryan was made full time in May and has his sights set on achieving his long

GENERATION…

Father and son team working together to establish a future generation at Hartwigs Shepparton.

From left is Parts Sales Team member Ryan Calogero and Shepparton Branch Manager Simon Calogero.

term goals with the business.

Ryan said, “I love working here.

“I have aspirations in following along in my dad’s footsteps.

“While I have started in parts and am completing my apprenticeship, I plan on moving my way through the business. I have an interest in the truck sales section of the business so I am keen to learn more on that.”

and his team wish to congratulate Hartwigs on their milestone 100th anniversary servicing our region and across Australia.

Since 1923

HARTWIGS 100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Congratulations to Hartwigs Trucks on the amazing milestone of 100 years in business.

Penske Australia – including the team at Western Star Trucks, MAN Truck & Bus and Detroit – is honoured to be part of your journey.

With a decades-long relationship, we’ve proudly been part of your story and look forward to witnessing many more milestones.

Congratulations.

“Customers for Life”

A century of great service

1999 2001

John “Jock” Hartwig retires from the business after 40 years.

1998

Hartwigs Trucks opens its new premises on Hammond Avenue in Wagga Wagga.

2002

Hartwigs opens its branch in Shepparton.

2004

Grand opening of Hartwigs Trucks newly refurbished Shepparton facility along Benalla Road.

1988

Tim Hartwig joined Robert and John “Jock” at the Dobney Avenue site in Wagga Wagga.

Hartwigs Trucks Wagga Wagga named Sterling Trucks Australian Dealer of the Year.

2023

Hartwigs introduces the new Western Star X Series and MAN’s TG3 range to the Goulburn Valley. Hartwigs Trucks celebrates 100 years at a special centenary dinner in March.

2020

Hartwig Trucks consolidated its operations, bringing its locations down to two from seven, running from Queanbeyan and Shepparton.

2015

Tim’s son, Charlie joined Hartwigs Trucks.

1979

Hartwigs Trucks established premises in Edward Street, Wagga Wagga.

From left, John “Jock”, Robert and Tim Hartwig.

100 YEARS IN 2023…... Hartwigs Trucks salesman Russell Eden and branch manager Simon Calogero.

FIFTH GENERATION…... Charlie Hartwig speaks at the 100th anniversary dinner at MOVE Shepparton in March 2023.

Celebrating a century

IN March this year, people from across the transport industry and locals joined together to help the Hartwigs’ family celebrate their centenary at a special dinner, with dealer principal, Charlie Hartwig saying the most memorable was of his first year as dealer principal where the business went from five locations back to two and starting that journey with help from his family and the team.

“I began my journey at Hartwigs after university. My first year was a steep learning curve but it is good to be where we are today,” Charlie said.

Robert Hartwig pictured with Denise McMurtie at the centenary celebration.

Leigh Rankin of Katunga, a long term customer of Hartwigs Trucks and owner/ operator of Rankin Transport.

Robert Hartwig and daughterin-law Donna Hartwig.

From left, Charlie, Tim and Robert Hartwig celebrating the Centenary dinner in March at MOVE Shepparton.

The Hartwig family history from 1923 - 2015 at MOVE Shepparton.

Sergio Carboni of Penske Australia’s MAN team viewing the Western Star 47X at MOVE Shepparton.

Hartwigs Trucks Queanbeyan customers Craig and Leanne Whittaker.

A big night of centenary celebrations was held at MOVE Shepparton earlier this year. From left, Craig and Leanne Whittaker, with Charlie Hartwig and Mollie Kampman.

Safety and reliability the focus of new advanced technology

HARTWIGS has held its customers and staff at the forefront of the business from its inception and following advancements in technology is offering piece of mind through its vehicle’s safety and reliability.

Some of the more recent advancements have seen the introduction of external mirror cams, which removes blind spots and tracks with the trailer behind it. Daydreaming risks on long hauls are also covered with additions such as active brake assist, lane departure warnings to alert drivers of potential hazards on the road and features such as adaptive cruise control that automatically slows the vehicle, protecting the driver, cargo and general public.

But perhaps the most recently sought after is what is on offer to the Goulburn Valley in the Western Star’s new X-Series range and MAN’s new truck generation.

Shepparton branch manager, Simon Calogero said, “We are excited to be offering the new range from Western Star such as the Western Star 48X we recently provided to add to Rankin Transport’s fleet. With The 36” Mid Roof Sleeper the 48X is a Genuine 34 Pallet B-Double Compliant Conventional (Bonneted) Prime Mover and Rankin Transport have helped us prove this, fitting it in front of their 34 pallet refrigerated trailer set, within 26m overall length.

“Also, it’s powered by the all new Detroit DD16 GHG21 Engine rated at 600 HP at 2050 lb.ft. It is no secret how fuel efficient the new Detroit engine platform is, those savings alone make this truck something every linehaul operation

should consider, as part of their business.

“With a history dating back over 250 years MAN Truck & Bus produces some of the world’s finest trucks and buses.

“Proudly distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Penske, MAN’s truck generation boasts excellent driver fit, great efficiency and economy features, seriously spacious, our

We are excited to be offering the new range from Western Star such as the Western Star 48X we recently provided to add to Rankin Transport’s fleet.

intuitive dash layout and luxurious rest and sleep area make the perfect work environment. Combined with innovative driver assistance features and an advanced aerodynamic design, your driver won’t want to leave the cabin.

“All of these features help us to offer a safe and seamless experience for our loyal customers,” Simon said.

A partnership with an exciting future

IT HAS been through important partnerships with leading supply businesses such as Penske Australia & New Zealand that Hartwigs has been able to reach such an important milestone, and with the new Western Star and MAN series of trucks rolling out now, this partnership has an exciting future ahead.

Proudly distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Penske, working in conjunction with industry leaders such as Hartwigs, the new Western Star X-Series and new MAN truck generation are a real game changer for Australian transport.

Penske On-Highway executive general manager, Craig Lee said, “What a pleasure it was to be there, in what historically will prove to be a significant event in celebrating Hartwigs’ 100 years. All credit to the entire Hartwig family.

“In the transport sector in Australia, relationships are built that make it what it is and that is why Hartwigs has made it to 100 years and gone from strength to strength.

“We rely heavily on our dealer group in Australia and Hartwigs is a key to that.

“We are very proud of our new Western Star and our new MAN product portfolios and I hope that those in the industry get the opportunity to enjoy some of the new products and drive it,” Craig said.

That brand new truck feeling. From left is Simon Calogero (Branch Manager) congratulating Rankin Trans Co-Owner Jarrod Rankin on his new truck purchase.

Simon Calogero

Hartwigs Shepparton Branch Manager

A new era of trucking

THE relationship between Western Star Trucks and Hartwigs began in 1989, just a few years after Western Star first launched in Australia.

Western Star Trucks launched the Heritage trucks in Australia in 1983, followed by Cornerstone Heritage trucks in 1989, which included the 48X and 49X trucks that had 250 changes from the original Heritage trucks including a factory fitted cup holder. The Constellation series of Western Star Trucks was then released in 1998.

The Western Star X-Series represents a new era for Western Star Trucks. Back in 2013/2014 Western Star went out to talk with customers across Australia to gain

insight into what the future needs for the industry were in order to develop the new X-Series.

Penske Australia’s Western Star product manager, Doug Shand – “Congratulations to everyone involved in reaching 100 years.

“I was there with Tim Hartwig when the Constellation series was released.

“When we went out to talk to customers, we got a lot of great feedback. The key answers we received back were there was a need for more up-time and better durability, more safety technology including airbags, a need to be greener and include industry leading fuel

The new Western Star X-Series addresses all of these needs and delivers on all fronts. If you get a chance, drive these trucks and you will feel it.

economy, better and safer access to the cabin, increased visibility, multi-function steering wheel, more cabin sleeper options, more driver features for a better safer driving environment and lighter tare weights.

“The new X-Series addresses all of these needs and delivers on all fronts. If you get a chance, drive these trucks and you will feel it,” Doug said.

Efficiency, quality and driver-bility

HARTWIGS is recognised for offering the broad and diverse MAN Truck & Bus range, and excitement is continuing to build for the recent release of the new MAN truck generation.

Since coming to Australia in 1968, MAN Truck & Bus has made a name for itself for its efficiency, quality and driver-bility.

When MAN designed and engineered the new truck generation there were four deliverables that were required to achieve; excellent driver fit, efficiency and economy, optimised up-time and strong partnership.

Penske Australia’s MAN product manager, Sergio Carboni said, “We talk about strong partnerships and Hartwigs is one of our strongest partners across the supply industry.

“Some of the success stories over the last year have been the expanding portfolio of MAN.

“MAN is here to stay in Australia. We are here to back the product and translate how it

is equal number one, and how MAN has done that is through the new truck generation.

“The new truck generation has that prestige car feel to it. Significant changes have been introduced such as the digital dash and navigation system, multi-function steering wheel and a global-first smart dial next to the driver for function and feature navigation, state of the art climate control and a quiet cab.

“When MAN developed this truck, they spent nearly 170,000 hours getting it right. It had extensive wind tunnel testing, and changes have been made visually such as the grill goes from the windscreen to the bumper, which allows extensive airflow to the engine and helps with aerodynamics and fuel efficiency,” Sergio said.

Left to Right: Josh, John, Arthur, Les & Bayley Kreskas.

Doug Shand

Product ManagerWestern Star Trucks, Penske Australia