Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian Award

Victorian Truckie recognised in tragic collision

Victorian truck driver Renzo Bruschi is the latest recipient of the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award, in recognition of his bravery following a tragic multi-vehicle collision earlier this year that claimed the life of one motorist.

Renzo has been a truck driver for more than 30 years and the morning of May 24 started out just like any other. That all changed when a petrol tanker carrying 60,000 litres of fuel crashed and rolled over on the Calder Freeway.

Renzo’s truck was one of around 10 vehicles involved in the crash. Renzo jumped out of his truck and rushed to assist the driver of the tanker who was calling for help.

"There was fuel and smoke everywhere; I just thought it was not a question of if this was going to blow but more a question of when, so I just sprang into action to help get him out as soon as possible before something happened," Renzo said.

"The tanker was on its side and I initially tried to break the windscreen; and it shattered but didn’t break, so I had to climb up and pull him out through the door which was facing skyward."

After assisting the tanker driver, Renzo turned his attention to an overturned car which had ended up in the gutter and had fuel running through it.

He crawled through the back passenger door and helped the extremely traumatised driver from her vehicle and led her away from the scene. "I just did not stop to think at that point, I just did all I could to help," he said.

I went to the other vehicle which was crushed to see if I could help but unfortunately that person was already deceased.

"I hope something like this never happens again, but if I did, I know I’d do the same all over again," Renzo said.

Renzo was presented with the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award at the Castrol Awards Dinner during the Technical and Maintenance Conference held in Melbourne on October 25.

The award honours the great community service performed by professional truck drivers who go above and beyond the call of duty to assist those around them during the course of their regular work.

Australian Trucking Association Chair Noelene Watson congratulated the newest Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian.

"Renzo responded to an overwhelming situation with selfless courage. He acted quickly and fearlessly in the face of danger, getting as many people to safety as he could and offering them great comfort," Mrs Watson said.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who lost his life as a result of this tragic event."

The Victorian Police have also commended Renzo’s actions.

The Australian Trucking Association welcomes information about individuals who could potentially be considered for a Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award and details may be emailed to ata@truck.net.au. More information about the award is available here.

Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian Award

Tags