Veteran-Owned Ironside Trucking Builds a Unique Kenworth T620SAR Tribute to Australia’s Veterans

For Glen and Rowena Ferrarotto of Ironside Trucking, the goal was always clear: build the ultimate truck. So, when the opportunity arose to invest in a new prime mover, Glen knew exactly what he wanted: a Kenworth T620SAR powered by the latest Euro 6 technology.

An ex-Army diesel mechanic, Glen has carried a lifelong passion for trucks. While working alongside contractors on a major Melbourne infrastructure project, he and Rowena began exploring how a truck could become the foundation of their own business venture.

That conversation sparked a journey that would grow into Ironside Trucking, a proudly veteran-owned transport business operating a small but expanding fleet of distinctive Kenworth trucks. More than simply moving freight, each vehicle serves as a rolling tribute to Australia's servicemen and women, helping promote awareness, respect and recognition for Defence Force personnel and their families.

“I very quickly settled on wanting a Kenworth truck of my own. I wanted to stick with a patriotic brand for Ironside Trucking. Being built in our own backyard in Melbourne, Kenworth was the natural direction to take,” said Glen.

Building the Ultimate Kenworth T620SAR for Ironside Trucking

With a clear vision for both performance and presentation, Glen set out to create something truly special. After connecting with the executive team at CMV Group, plans quickly took shape for Ironside Trucking's first truck.

To bring the project to life, Glen worked closely with Hallam Truck Centre Sales Consultant Bob Fuerst, beginning the build process almost 12 months before delivery. Along the way, he made several trips to PACCAR Australia's Bayswater manufacturing facility to watch the truck progress through production.

“When Glen first walked in with a clipboard full of paperwork, he wasn't sure of the process. Seeing how far he's come since then has been incredible,” said Bob

Ironside Trucking’s new-generation 2.1m-wide cab is powered by a Cummins X15 engine delivering 565hp, paired with an Endurant XD Pro automated transmission. The Kenworth T620SAR is fitted with a 6x4 Hardox tipper body by Chris's Body Builders, Hydro Dippers by D&M Auto, UHF communications by Waldron Communications, and a custom-made centre console created by the Hallam Truck Centre pre-delivery team.

A Custom Kenworth Truck Honouring Australian Veterans

The truck's most striking feature is its custom-designed wrap by Fleeting Image. Created to honour those who have served Australia, the artwork transforms the T620SAR into a moving tribute to the nation's veterans.

“His passion for trucks shines through in everything he does, and every truck tells a story,” said Bob.

"Seeing Glenn take delivery of Ironside 1 in December was a proud moment. From its arrival as a black unit fresh off the factory line to the impressive vehicle it has become today, the transformation has been remarkable. Ironside 1 has been dedicated to the Australian Special Forces who served in Afghanistan, making it a truly meaningful project," says Bob.

Since entering service in January, the truck has been working across Melbourne's major infrastructure and civil construction projects, hauling thousands of tonnes of dirt and rock while attracting attention wherever it travels.

“It does everything we want it to do, and the reaction on the roads has been incredible. It does the perfect job of connecting the community through the service and sacrifice of ADF veterans,” said Glen.

For Ironside Trucking, the truck represents far more than a transport asset. It embodies the company's mission to use its fleet as a platform for remembrance, education and community engagement.

Expanding the Ironside Trucking Fleet with New Veteran Tributes

The Ironside Trucking story is only just beginning. Plans are already underway for Ironside 2 and Ironside 3, with each truck carrying its own unique commemorative theme.

Ironside 2 will pay tribute to ANZAC service and World War I veterans, featuring artwork that highlights both the Australian Light Horse and the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous Australians who served during the First World War.

“The truck’s wrap, along with its quad-dog trailer, has two very prominent sides. One side of the trailer is dedicated to Indigenous service in WW1, which is something we as a society need to be more aware of, while one side of the truck is dedicated to the Australian Light Horse and will be a real head-turner,” said Glen.

Following that build, Ironside 3 will be dedicated to Australia's Vietnam War veterans, continuing the company's vision of creating rolling memorials that educate and inspire communities across Australia.

Why the Kenworth T620SAR Continues to Impress

While Glen initially preferred a manual transmission, his experience with the automated Endurant XD Pro has changed his perspective.

“I love talking about the truck itself. When I went to buy it, I told the sales staff at Kenworth I wanted a manual truck to move dirt, but they quickly shook their head and said no,” said Glen.

“My main concern with an automatic was that it wouldn’t feel like driving a truck, but I was wrong in so many ways. These machines sound like a manual truck and work like one, but it’s so much easier to use. The sound inside the cab is beautiful. It’s a driver’s truck that I’ve fallen in love with,” said Glen.

The T620SAR also features a digital dash and PACCAR Connect telematics, providing valuable fleet and operational insights at Glen's fingertips. Combined with the latest Kenworth Fusion safety systems and support from PACCAR Australia's dealer network, the ownership experience has exceeded expectations.

“The connection with PACCAR through the dealer network and the PACCAR Connect system has been excellent. Once the other two trucks go on the road, it’ll be very handy to understand how they perform,” said Glen.

Partnering with Hallam Truck Centre for Future Growth

Looking ahead, Glen sees significant opportunities for growth as Ironside Trucking continues to expand its fleet and operations.

“I want to run this business for another year and, where opportunity exists, I’ll continue investing in assets to put roaming war memorials on the road. I’m so proud to be leading a veteran-owned family business that generates its own revenue.”

“We may move into other states too. I’m keeping a sharp eye on civil construction in South Australia and Queensland, while I’d also love to one day do long-haul freight from Melbourne to the NT or Queensland.”

“It will give our community a great chance to reflect on the service and sacrifice made by our veterans every single day.”

Congratulations again to Glen, Rowena and the team at Ironside Trucking, and thank you for your continued trust in Hallam Truck Centre, CMV Group and Kenworth Australia. We look forward to supporting your journey well into the future.