First 'Star for Camerons

Melbourne-based national carrier Glen Cameron Group has taken delivery of its first Western Star, with company head Glen Cameron himself (pictured) on hand at the firm's headquarters in Bayswater to receive the new truck.

The Western Star 4800FS2 is powered by a 15-litre Detroit Diesel engine, making the new workhorse a full Penske affair. The 6x4 prime mover will now carry out a range of B-double and single trailer work in and around Melbourne, the rig serving as a trial and potentially paving the way for future Western Stars in the Cameron's fleet.

Mr Cameron said the truck's Penske backing made for a solid argument.

"Western Star Trucks is a strong brand with a lot of history behind it but, for us, the fact that it is backed by an experienced and ambitious organisation like Penske is equally important," he said.

"To me, combining the two is a powerful sales proposition."

The company's Group Asset Manager, Shane Coates, said the time was right for Western Star to show its worth.

"We don't have a preference for European or North American trucks per se," he said.

"We only decide on merit and, with Penske behind it, we thought Western Star Trucks more than deserved an opportunity to prove itself. It's a powerful truck that has a good reputation in the industry."

Mr Coates said the surely of on-going costs thanks to Penske's comprehensive service contract played a big role in taking the truck on, adding he had every confidence the truck would live up to expectations.

"We can definitely see a future for the brand in our fleet should the trial be successful," he said.

"It's an exciting opportunity for everyone involved and we are looking forward to giving the new truck a serious workout."