Compassionate truck driver awarded for heroic acts

A Linfox truck driver has earned the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award for his compassionate and heroic actions at a multi-vehicle crash site.

The award, given by the Australian Trucking Association (ATA), recognises professional truck drivers who have performed brave and selfless acts while carrying out their normal role.

According to the ATA, Andrew Hastings came across a two-passenger vehicle crash on Victoria’s Western Freeway in February this year and stopped to help the injured passengers.

As the first on the scene, he immediately used his fire extinguisher to suppress the flames and aid an injured woman out of her car.

He then rushed to help the severely injured driver of the second vehicle, administering first aid to the man’s wounds until the paramedics arrived and prying open the passenger door so he could sit with and comfort the man while he received treatment.

“Andrew Hastings’ actions are the definition of going above and beyond the call of duty, and he is undoubtedly a deserving recipient of the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian title,” said Australian Trucking Association Chairman Geoff Crouch.

“It’s in the face of adversity that we see the true gems of our industry. The Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian accolade is a fitting way to recognise these incredible individuals.”

Linfox is currently working towards no workplace injuries or motor vehicle accidents under its ‘vision ZERO initiative’ and Linfox Intermodal’s Victoria Road Manager, Paul Gregory, said Hastings leads by example in this area.

“As a driver, Andrew is safe and law abiding. Andrew takes pride in his job: he is always presented well in uniform and gives informative feedback during tool box meetings,” Gregory said.

“Andrew’s aspirations are to become a driver trainer. His eagerness has already been demonstrated and clearly there is a care factor for his peers.”

Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Stephen Roche added that Hastings’ actions are worthy of significant praise.

“Andrew Hastings’ story is heartwarming and confronting at the same time. His actions go well beyond his job description, and the level of compassion that he showed is nothing short of incredible. We are honoured to recognise him with the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian title,” Roche said.

Together with the Australian Trucking Association, Bridgestone aims to shine a light on outstanding members of the trucking industry through the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian honour.

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