Tony Camilleri

Tony “Izzy” Camilleri’s story is one of loyalty, and a lifelong love of the open roads. His transport journey began in 1971 at the Dalgety Woolstores, where he began as a forklift operator, but it wasn’t long before he found his true calling behind the wheel.

In 1972, Izzy joined Fleet Express in the workshop and earned his truck endorsement licence -marking the beginning of a remarkable driving career that would span nearly five decades. From 1973 to 1976 he worked for Ballarat Metals, hauling scrap metal across local and interstate routes, quickly building a reputation as a dependable and hardworking operator.

Izzy continued his journey with Liapis Transport from 1976 to 1982, completing tipper work for Albion Reid, expertly handling both semi tippers and truck-and-dog setups. In 1982, he joined Linfox, delivering groceries to Coles supermarkets throughout Gippsland, always getting the job done - no fuss, no drama.

From 1983 to 1985, Izzy worked with Pearce Transport, driving propane tankers mainly to Mildura. His next step took him to Fluid Freight, where he drove tankers both locally and interstate. It was here he took the leap to become an owner-driver, purchasing a 1978 S2 Kenworth and subcontracting full-time. In 1992, he upgraded to a 1986 W Model Kenworth - a truck he proudly worked for many more years.

Between 1993 and 1994, Izzy subcontracted for Chem Trans, hauling chemicals with the same steady focus he brought to every task. He then moved into bitumen cartage with Mobil from 1995 to 2000, servicing road crews across the country. From there, Izzy worked with Specialised Tanker Services until around 2008, and finally with Primal Tanker Transport which was also known as Primal Surfacing, continuing to haul bitumen right up until 2018.

Tony “Izzy” Camilleri passed away on December 1, 2019. Though the road has lost one of its finest, his legacy lives on through every highway he helped build and every driver he inspired. He was more than just a truckie - he was a mate, a mentor, and a man who truly lived for the road.