Melbourne based truck driver Steve Bolton is the latest recipient of the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian Award, which was presented at the Australian Trucking Association/Australian Road Transport Suppliers' Association Technical and Maintenance Conference on Tuesday 17th October.

Mr Bolton is a valued employee of Toll Group and is a senior leader on the Coles South East Queensland contract.

The Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award recognises his swift action and invaluable assistance to emergency services after witnessing a car roll into a river on the Tweed Valley Highway.

Steve was praised for his cooperation with police and other attending services in recovering the driver of the vehicle.

Steve has been with Toll Group since 2008 and over that time has boasted an exemplary driving record. He is also one of Toll Group's driver trainers and plays an active role in the accreditation of drivers.

According to Head of Government Relations at Toll Group, Royce Christie, safety is a key focus for the company and Steve Bolton always has it at the forefront of his actions.

"Steve is very much a senior leader on the Coles South Eastern Queensland contract. He leads by example and is always involved if there are issues to solve," said Mr Christie.

"He is one of our driver trainers, part of our safety committee and is also part of our senior leadership group.

"Steve is called upon to conduct store assessments or any other incident or near miss we may have in the SEQ contract and is very much a key part of our success on that contract."

Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand Managing Director Andrew Moffatt praised Mr Bolton's actions.

"Steve Bolton's swift actions and cooperation with emergency services ensured that the accident didn't result in the loss of a life," Mr Moffatt said.

"It is these selfless actions that are worthy of recognition and we take great pride in awarding Mr Bolton with the Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award.

"We all want to see safer highways and it is people like Steve Bolton, through his leadership within the Toll Group that will help make it a reality," he added.

The Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian Award honours the great community service performed by professional truck drivers who go above and beyond the call of duty to assist those around them during the course of their normal work.

Australian Trucking Association Chair Geoff Crouch also extended his commendation to Mr Bolton's efforts.

"Any time a truck is involved in an accident there is always scrutiny, but Steve's composure and calmness demonstrated what an asset he is to the industry," Mr Crouch said.

Potential Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian candidates can be brought to the ATA's attention at any time by emailing ata@truck.net.au.

More information about the award