David Harford was born in Stafford, Staffordshire, England and has attributed two thirds of his life to the transport and logistics industry. David’s legacy began in 1972 when he arrived in Australia.
David’s transport career started with Ansett Australia, where he quickly progressed to the role of Sales Manager by 1976. When Ansett Australia was acquired by competitors, TNT and News Corp in 1979, this was the catalyst moment David saw an opportunity to service a gap in the market. With TNT specialising in the eastern states, David saw a huge potential to start a logistics business that specialised in servicing northern Australia – hence the name – Northline.
With a sketch plan of what he wanted to achieve on the back of a boarding pass, David approached a few people in his network.
Understanding the potential and pitfalls of operating in this market and knowing that it came with its own set of rules, Northline began forming strong connections within the industry, making a compelling business case for a new logistics company.
And thus, with a small team that shared the same vision (and a love of rugby, cricket and golf), Northline was established. David credits this team which he says, “It wouldn’t have worked without the enthusiasm, flexibility, hard work and commitment of the people I worked with.”
In the early days, truck drivers never left the depot without their swags or billy cans and had to learn how to navigate dirt roads and sudden floods.
Whilst David is the Owner of Northline, he has done it all. From
driving trucks, to reversing road trains to personally unloading freight but his specialty was loading – knowing exactly how to utilise the space and maximise the load.
Today, while Northline operates a national and international
business, the Northern Territory remains their spiritual home. They have a proud history of supporting the community in the Territory, with sponsorships and support of local community groups including Camp Quality, Walk a While Foundation, Darwin Sailing Club, Darwin Festival and NT Minnows.
Northline has had a 1981 Ford Louisville Prime Mover displayed in the Hall of Fame’s truck museum since 2013.
David’s family and Northline family remain very close to his heart and he is still actively involved with the business. To quote, “At the heart of our success, is a commitment to each other and to shared values that makes us more like a family than a business. I believe that is what makes us special.”
Inducted in 2024
