The trucking industry is today mourning the loss of Terry Nolan, who founded Nolan’s Interstate Transport in Queensland with his wife, Daphne Nolan.

Mr Nolan passed away this morning.

The Chair of the Australian Trucking Association, Noelene Watson, said Mr Nolan had been at the forefront of advancing safety and professionalism in the industry.

“When Terry and Daphne took over DM and MT Nolan from his father in the early 1970s, the business had three trucks and three employees,” Mrs Watson said.

“Today, the company is one of the largest family owned transport businesses in Queensland. It’s also one of the safest and most professional transport businesses in the state.

“Terry was heavily involved in the development of better fatigue and work health and safety standards in the industry, including the ATA’s TruckSafe program.

“He was one of the real characters of our industry as well. Whenever you were at a function, you knew when he was there – there was lots of laughter and lots of fun. But if you rang him for help with something, he was always there for you.

“Terry will be missed by everyone. At this sad time, all our thoughts are with Daphne, his children and the other members of his family,” she said.

Terry and Daphne Nolan were the joint winners of the 2011 Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Trucking Industry Award.