The trucking and towing industries are invited to celebrate Johnny Allnyte Day at Kalkallo on August 17.
Lesley Pethebridge-Kontjonis describes Johnny Allnyte Day as an opportunity to recognise the contribution of the towing and trucking industries and to pay respect for people from these industries who have passed away.
She invites families from the towing and trucking industries to celebrate Johnny Allnyte Day at the Kalkallo Hotel on the Hume Highway, Kalkallo, Victoria, from noon until 8pm on Sunday, August 17.
The family day will include children’s activities and live music. Entry is free. Food and merchandise will be available.
For more information visit the ‘Johnny Allnyte Day Headquarters’ Facebook page or phone Pethebridge-Kontjonis on 0429 804 385.
Pethebridge-Kontjonis operates National Tow Truck Control Centre and is a singer who performs under the stage name Lesley Raelene. Her husband John ‘Allnyte’ Pethebridge passed away in 2010 after a long illness. He had worked in the tow industry for 46 years as a dispatcher. “When I came up with this idea for Johnny Allnyte Day I just wanted to do something special for an industry that [John] loved,” Pethebridge-Kontjonis says.
She has founded a not-for-profit organization, Johnny Allnyte Worldwide Foundation, to promote Johnny Allnyte Day and raise funds for worthy causes in the towing and trucking industries around the world.
“Instead of frowning on us, I want them to look at us and say these guys need a bit of respect. They do a great job for us. We wouldn’t be clothed or eat or have the things we have without trucks. And if we break down, who do we call? That person driving the truck is somebody’s husband, wife, father, son or brother.”
Those unable to attend the celebration at Kalkallo can support Johnny Allnyte Day by purchasing ribbons to wear or display on their cars and trucks. Pethebridge-Kontjonis chose black and white for the colour of the ribbons: “Black to show respect for our fallen, and white for our living.” Ribbons and other merchandise can be purchased from http://www.johnnyallnyteworldwidefoundation.com/