The Australian Trucking Association has today farewelled co-founder of Barker Trailers, Ernie Barker, who passed away last week. 

Together with his brother Arthur, in 1974 Ernie Barker manufactured the first custom Barker Trailer and founded the business that has grown from humble beginnings to one of the most reputable producers of high quality, Australian made trailers.   

“Ernie Barker had great influence in the industry during his time, and his passing signifies the end of an era for Barker Trailers,” ATA Geoff Crouch said today. 

“Ernie was an industry pioneer and a highly skilled tradesman with great technical knowledge and a commitment to the craft of building high quality trailers,” he said. 

Under Mr Barker’s leadership, Barker Trailers have been involved with the ATA for many years, improving industry safety and productivity as a member of the association’s Industry Technical Council and sharing first-hand experience and knowledge by attending the Trucking Australia and Technology and Maintenance conferences. 

“With his brother Arthur, Ernie led Barker Trailers to become an award-winning business, while also being heavily involved in his local community,” Mr Crouch said. 

“On behalf of the ATA and the trucking industry I extend my condolences and deepest sympathy to Ernie’s family and the Barker Trailers community,” he said. 

The ATA and its member associations collectively represent the 50,000 business and 200,000 people in the Australian trucking industry. Together, the ATA and its members are committed to safety, professionalism and viability.