Well, that was weird: 2021 I’m talking about. It’s just as well we had 2020 for a warm-up, or it may have been a real struggle. I don’t want to jinx it either, but here’s hoping 2020 and 2021 aren’t training for 2022. It’s probably not going to be too much of a reprieve from current challenges, so it’s important to grab a break while you can.

Being the last word for the year, we won’t worry about roads, rail ferries, compliance, Omicron, and a plethora of other issues. There’s plenty of time for all that from 12.01am on 1 January. What’s important now is taking time for reflection and gratitude.

Speaking to the subject of reflection, if you’re reading this, you’ve made it through to another December. Over the past 12 months, you’ve probably learned a lot about yourself and things in general; that there’s always options and opportunity, and a glass that looks half empty also must be half full. To that end, Matt, Margaret and I would like to extend our sincerest thanks and acknowledge everyone who works in our business. I’ve worked with some amazing groups of people in my career, but in terms of a whole group with a collective glass-half-full outlook, Long Haul’s staff and contractors are without peer in my life. They say the dumb talk about people; the bright, events and intelligent ideas. We’re certainly surrounded by smart, ideas focussed people whose energy inspires us.

Likewise, the industry we serve. Our advertisers are part of an industry that delivers regardless of society’s incessant and distracting noise. They constantly press forward, helping create the momentum needed to ensure the nation realises the economic activity it so desperately needs in its future. A vibrant economy is merely a manifestation of group confidence, and we thank every one of our customers for the trust they continue to show in us. Not one dollar invested is ever taken for granted, and we constantly strive to maximise its return to those who choose to spend it with us.

We can produce content and celebrate our advertisers’ products and services because you all decide to read and ingest that information each month. Everyone at Long Haul Publications is passionate about celebrating the trucking industry and defending its position and importance. It’s at the root of everything we do. Like our commercial customers, no dollar spent by our retail and subscriber customers is ever disrespected, and our wee group strive always to bring you more and involve you more. From the heart, we thank you all for choosing us to either tell your stories or to fill two or three of your precious leisure hours each month.

Please enjoy your break. Have a rest, take a spell, and forget stuff for a bit. Watch a few sunsets, enjoy your favourite tipple, and most of all, make the most of time spent with those who miss out on you through the year.

From all of us to all of you… Thank you, have a wonderful Christmas and New Year, go well, be safe, and most important of all, wave to truckies. See you soon.

All the best

Dave McCoid
Editor