Don Watson Transport, a long-established freight company from Derrimut, Victoria, has announced its closure after 77 years of operation, putting hundreds of jobs at risk. As a third-generation family-owned business, it has built a substantial fleet of 290 vehicles and is known for its contributions to the Australian trucking and warehousing industry.
The company officially made its last collection yesterday, with remaining deliveries scheduled for the upcoming days. In a statement, the Watson family expressed the challenging decision to cease transport operations, reflecting on their long-standing relationship with the industry and the community. They conveyed their gratitude for the support received over the years and expressed hope for the industry’s future development.
While the transport division shuts down, the Watson family’s Coldstores business will continue to operate as they look to sell this branch of the company. The family confirmed that Coldstores will remain fully functional while being marketed for sale, with an aim to maximise its value as a viable entity.
The closure marks a significant shift in the regional freight landscape, as the Watson family transitions away from a business that has been an integral part of their legacy and the local economy for nearly eight decades.