Kevin Englefield

Kevin, also known as ‘The Big Rig’, Englefield was born in Manangatang, Victoria in 1961. He made his start in the transport industry working for his parents, John and Joy Englefield. John and Joy commenced wine grape transportation in addition to their dryland farming, stock, and transport business in 1971. The mid 1970’s saw Kevin and his brother Michael, join the business as primary loaders and operators. In 1979 Kevin took on the additional role of transport operator.

Kevin married his first wife, Leanne in 1984. They went on to have three children; Daniel, Adam and Steven. Kevin spent most his time raising his three boys on the road, all of whom now work in the family business.

In early 1999, Kevin ceased interstate driving to work at management level with his father, assisting with the day to day operations that vintage demanded. Sadly, John passed away in September 2003. Kevin then took over as Managing Director in late September 2003 under the new and existing name, K. Englefield Wine Grape Services Pty. Ltd. (KEWGS). His role now incorporates the overall management of the business and the day to day operations.

In 2007, Kevin married his second wife, Lyn. Lyn took over the role of office manager in September 2003 due to Joy’s retirement. Together, Kevin and Lyn strengthened the positive direction and commitment of KEWGS and its future and made it the business it is today.

During his career, Kevin has carted grapes, citrus and other farms goods in all types of trucks, from Peterbuilts, Mack’s, Kenworths and Western Stars. He still says to this day that the Mercedes are the best truck by far.

Kevin has built KEWGS up having many facets of strength, including large resources and logistics, new technology, safe work practices, long term employees and contractors and quality service. KEWGS and Kevin are still fiercely linked to its ‘grass roots family business’ after being in business for over 40 years.

Kevin has been instrumental to the industry in Mildura and surrounds. He is well respected for his character and skills and is an avid donator to many charities, especially the RFDS. He says he doesn’t have one single favourite memory as he just loves to drive and has loved driving all across Australian roads either in the truck or his rally car.

Kevin is now trying to retire, but still has to stick around to show the young ones how it’s done!