Bernie Tobin
Bernie Tobin grew up in Mitta Mitta NSW and was the oldest of 7 children. He has long been known for his work ethic and his commitment to get things done no matter the obstacle. It comes as no suprise that Bernies first job was at nearby Dartmouth Dam doing the oversize rigging jobs that no one else wanted to do. Bernie purchased his first truck in 1978, a Volvo which would see many back roads across Australia. In 1981, the Volvo was replaced with a Kenworth and the Melbourne to Brisbane return trek along the back roads would be the route travelled with oversized loads. Along on these trips Bernie would quite often take his young son with him for company.
In 1983 the railroad went on strike and it was then that while delivering to Alan Salpietro that the two decided to seize the opportunity and start delivering magazines up the east coast of Queensland. The business first operated by message banks, and shortly thereafter a small office in Stones Corner. At the time, the distribution of magazines was an opportunity that both men seen as short term.
Bernie started working full time in the Followmont Business in 1986. He drove a B-Double from Brisbane to Innesfail making36 deliveries along the way, every week. After a short 18 months, the Followmont operations extended to a shed on Bilsen Road. A further 3 years would see the company expand again into Radley St to support the acquisition of the magazine distribution company of Brownings. This would cement the future of Followmont and begin the expansive network we know as Followmont today. The mens innovation and flexability has senn many of the original relationships still maintained today.
The early days were tough but service is what the company was founded on. Today Followmont extends to every corner of Queensland and New South Wales. With over 150 subcontractors, 25 depots, 850 staff and over 1000 fleet. Followmont services the most extensive network in the two states. Bernie and his commitment to the transport industry is responsible for building a network that delivers essential items including pharmaceuticals, bread, post, hardware, out of gauge and all household items to regional Queensland. Inducted 2019.
