Best of the best: Celebrating tanker operators across the Co-op
Fonterra’s tanker operators have been celebrated at the Co-operative's Transport Operator of the Year Awards, held in Auckland.
The awards held in Auckland last week shine a spotlight on the team of close to 1600 drivers who get behind the wheel every day to collect milk safely and efficiently from thousands of Fonterra farms across the country.
Fonterra General Manager of National Transport and Logistics, Paul Phipps, says the awards are an opportunity to come together and recognise the outstanding work the team delivers.
“Our tanker operators play a critical role in connecting farms to our manufacturing network and delivering value for the Co-op. These awards recognise not just technical skill, but the consistency and care the team demonstrate every day.”
Fonterra tanker operators collect around 16 billion litres of milk a year and travel a combined total of 95 million kilometres per year – that’s more than 2,000 trips around the Earth.
There are 18 award recipients this year, reflecting the depth of talent across the network.
“We’re proud to recognise all of this year’s winners, celebrating the operators and teams who demonstrate excellence in safety, efficiency and leadership on the road,” says Phipps.
These awards recognise not just technical skill, but the consistency and care the team demonstrate every day.
One of this year’s Tanker Operator of the Year recipients is Darfield‑based tanker operator Scott Butler, who has spent 13 years with the Co-op.
Butler started as a tanker operator and has worked across a range of roles at the Darfield site before returning to driving.
“I started in 2013 and I’m just about to finish my 13th season. I’ve spent all that time working at Darfield.”
Now back on the road, Butler says it’s rewarding to be recognised.
“This is my second year back behind the wheel, so it’s great to be recognised after only just returning to it. I enjoy driving – the scenery and the peace and quiet are a bonus.”
Butler says the Co‑op offers strong opportunities for those willing to make the most of them.
“Fonterra can be a great place to work, and there’s a lot more to learn beyond tanker operations if you choose to look for other opportunities.”
Scott Butler, Fonterra Tanker Operator