As we approach Christmas, the usual ramp up in supply chain activity is well underway. Truck movements are up, ports are busy, the ferries are full…the seasonal bump is upon us.

Reaching the end of this year in particular has been a feat worth celebrating in itself.

At National Road Carriers we have seen first hand staying in business as a transport operator is not something to take for granted.

So if you find yourself still working hard delivering goods across our supply chain, stop for a moment and give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve made it through the toughest year in decades.

NRC has the privilege of representing the road freight industry, which means we see every day what it takes to keep supply chain running.

It takes grit, sheer bloody hard work, and determination.

It is the definition of relentless.

But knowing the country can’t run without you counts for something.

That your efforts literally keep food on the shelves, hospitals and schools running, and everyone else doing what they do every day.

Something to be proud of, and maybe to share a little of at the summer bbq.

Every day people buy the essentials and the luxuries, without sparing a thought for how it got there.

But you know, and we know.

We see throughout the year the sheer effort of will to keep the freight moving, made up by countless work tasks, obstacles to overcome and last minute day of operations changes.

We’ve seen up close the reality of the operator worried about their staff member following an accident. The anxiousness of the transport business owner wondering if their cashflow is going to make it this week and if they will be in business next week. And the determination of the supply chain manager to get it right, delivering for the customer, keeping the team safe.

So if you are feeling tired – no wonder.

Take the time to celebrate Christmas with your families and loved ones. Remember it is a season of hope. When we have our loved ones around us, we know that is why we do the hard work. Next year will be better.

I’ve met with and heard from countless members throughout the year. Thank you for your support, your feedback, your encouragement and for letting us know when we don’t get it quite as right as we could.

To the Board and team at NRC. You’ve done an incredible job looking out for this great industry all year.  It is a privilege to work along side you on behalf of the industry.

Merry Christmas.

Justin Tighe-Umbers, Chief Executive, National Road Carriers Assn

P.S. This is the last Heads Up and Transport Minute for the year. We will be back in February.