Craig Duren
Craig Duren was eager to arrive in the world, born prematurely on June 4, 1961. He has always had an unshakable passion for anything on wheels. From an early age, it was clear Craig was destined for a life in transport and heavy machinery.
After finishing school, Craig completed his apprenticeship as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic with Arthur Baker in Kemblawarra— a pivotal moment that launched his lifelong journey in the industry.
As his skills and experience grew, so did his ambition. Craig began taking bold steps to carve out his own path. He worked tirelessly, taking on subcontracting work as a diesel mechanic, driving trucks, and even purchasing his first truck in 1984, a Kenworth with which he went on to earn money delivering potatoes.
This hands-on hard-working approach laid the foundation for Duren Transport—a business that would go on to help shape the transport industry in the Illawarra. Duren Transport began with just six Mack trucks after securing a contract to transport finished products for BlueScope Steel (then BHP). As the requirements of BlueScope increased, Craig grew his business. He had over 300 employees across many roles, 100 trucks in operation, multiple sub-contractors and supplied work for 100s of local companies over the years. Craig held the BlueScope contract for more than two decades—an impressive partnership built on trust, reliability, and a relentless commitment to excellence.
In June 2012 the contract was taken over by TOLL. After thousands of deliveries and countless miles on the road, Craig personally drove the final truck leg back to the Duren Transport depot after the last load of steel was delivered. Whilst this may have marked the end of an era—it was not the end of Craig’s journey.
In 1998, Craig took over MJ Rowles, an established landscape supply business in the Illawarra. Under Craig’s leadership, the business has expanded to include a transport division in the Illawarra and South Australia. With Craig at the helm, MJ Rowles has won key contracts with companies like Holcim, Boral and Linfox. Craig further diversified along the way by launching a successful plant and machinery operation, supporting major infrastructure projects in NSW.
A true enthusiast, Craig has always had a soft spot for Mack trucks, though his impressive fleet includes Western Star’s, Kenworth’s, and other models. He’s built a small but celebrated collection of vintage working trucks that regularly appear at truck shows across Australia.
Craig has often been called upon by peers and industry leaders for his expertise, knowledge and his ability to explore the boundaries of innovation, assisting with truck designs, combinations, load haulage improvements, road transport safety, loading procedures and guidelines.
While many know Craig as a tough, no-nonsense operator, those close to him recognize the heart behind the hard work. A founding member of the Illawarra Community Foundation, Craig has played a major role in the success of the i98FM Illawarra Convoy, one of the region’s most beloved charity events. His support of the community doesn’t stop there, over the years, Craig has contributed to causes such as Rodeo 4 Life, Albion Park Show Smash Up Derby, and numerous local sports teams.
Craig Duren’s legacy is more than a story of business success—it's one of resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to his community. He remains a driving force in the growth of the transport sector in the Illawarra and continues to inspire those around him with his passion, generosity, and enduring work ethic
