The Grafton Truck Drivers' Social Club held its annual dedication memorial service on January 10
More than 150 people attended the annual Grafton Truck Drivers’ Social Club dedication service on Saturday, January 10. Many arrived from as far as away as Brisbane, Kempsey, Lismore and Newcastle.
Attendees included the Salvation Army’s David Gilbert and NatRoad director Robert Blanchard, of Herb Blanchard Haulage who says it is important to recognise those who risked their lives, working hard to provide essentials for the community.
Club Secretary Gai Bailey says the dedication service is an opportunity for people to reflect and get together. “The service brought on the goose bumps and tears,” Gai says.
Several trucks completed a drive-by as the Grafton City Pipe Band performed ‘Amazing Grace’ while the 24th Army Cadet Unit performed a guard of honour. Even trucks working on the day passed by quietly and slowly in respect to the dedication service as the names of Wilfred Hambly (Tweed Heads), Daryl Partridge (Kempsey) and Grafton drivers Donny Power and Graham Tompkins were added to the wall.
The Caltex truckstops at South Grafton and Halfway Creek also played their part on the day, supplying afternoon tea free of charge.