Alfie's Towing depends on Isuzu

Queensland-based Alfie's Towing now runs a fleet of five Isuzu trucks, after recently purchasing a new FSD 700 Long.

Based in Edmonton, south of Cairns, owner Alfie di Salvo (pictured, centre, with staff) says the company has gone from strength to strength since it purchased its first Isuzu – an NQR 450 – back in 2006, its fleet delivering the performance, capability and reliability he needs to keep his business rolling.

"I was a used car dealer back then, and I bought a 450 to run around some tractors I was selling," he says.

"Once I had the truck, towing work seemed to come my way and people were ringing me with towing jobs.

"Things grew from there; I bought more Isuzu trucks, hired drivers and it's now a full-time business with three drivers and two office staff. Consequently I'm no longer selling cars – I'm moving them!"

The new FSD 700 Long is fitted with a four-car carrier tray, trailer and winch.

"I bought the FSD 700 from Ireland Isuzu in Cairns and they were really helpful with meeting all of my needs," Mr di Salvo says.

"I took a liking to the Isuzu trucks because they were the cheapest vehicle to run and the most reliable," says Mr di Salvo.

"Now I've got a decent fleet of Isuzu trucks, the parts are interchangeable and the trucks are easy to service.

"The new 700 will go wherever it's needed – mainly through the Queensland top end. I wanted this model because it's bigger and it's got the air suspension in the back, which means driver comfort is excellent on the long trips."

The fleet certainly gets a workout, clocking up a significant number of kilometres each year.

"It's a case of 'have wheels, will travel' for these trucks," says Mr di Salvo.

"My 450's now done over 500,000 kilometres and my other three older trucks, all F Series, have done between 150,000 and 350,000 kilometres," Mr di Salvo says.

"I don't mind travelling the long distances; I actually love it. Some of the places you go, you're virtually in the middle of nowhere, with no phone reception. That's why having an Isuzu means I've got that peace of mind of knowing I'm driving a reliable truck that’s not going to break down on me out there.

"I'll be buying another tilt tray next year and it'll most likely be an Isuzu. I've been using Isuzu trucks for almost a decade now and I can't imagine changing my mind anytime soon."