Winton community loses trucking icon

Alan “Buddo” Grant died suddenly at Winton last week, described by Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Queensland president, Ian Wild as a “tragic loss”.

“He’s been a long-time member of our organisation and a strong advocate for anything rural transport related,” Mr Wild said. “We will miss him for all his knowledge and support.”

Buddo’s direct manner and can-do attitude saw his exploits become the stuff of folklore, spearheaded by his 1995 world record for Australia’s longest roadtrain.

Achieved at the Winton Outback Festival that year, Buddo coordinating the feat, pulling 34 trailers, measuring 498 metres (1634 feet), almost half a kilometre, for two kilometres.

“Not everyone knew Alan Grant, but everyone knew who Buddo was,” Mr Wild said.

“He was very community-minded. If you needed help, either the loan of a truck or some workshop equipment, he was only to happy to give it.”

Born and raised in Winton, Buddo was 55 years old at the time of his death.

According to a social media post by Grants Livestock Transport P/L, his funeral service will be held at 10am on Saturday, October 7, at the Winton Shire Hall.

“It’s with a heavy heart we post this,” the message read. “He may be gone, but will never be forgotten.”

Mr Wild said the livestock transporting fraternity would be working hard to support Buddo’s wife, Stephanie and family.

If you are troubled by this report or experiencing a personal crisis, you can contact Lifeline 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au, Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467, BeyondBlue 1300 224 636, beyondblue.org.au or youthbeyondblue, KidsHelpline 1800 551 800, Q Life 1800 184 527 or qlife.org.au, eheadspace 1800 650 890 or eheadspace.org.au, au.reachout.com