|
|
|
|
|
| Past Issues |
October 2007 |
JACK WEBSTER, a man who has been widely hailed as a ‘legend in his own time’ and the doyen of the South African trucking industry, passed away peacefully on October 3rd after a short illness. His passing marks the end of an era which spanned many decades of dynamic contribution to the trucking industry by this remarkable man – affectionately known to all as ‘Uncle Jack’. A friend, a mentor, a colleague, a giant, a legend, a Statesman. All that, plus more, is what Jack Webster was. From a personal view, his passing marks the end of a close friendship which started some 33 years ago when I first entered the world of trucking journalism. It was a friendship which grew over the years to embrace both our families. It was a friendship I valued so much for the warmth it gave on an almost daily basis. It was a friendship I will solely miss while taking solace in the fact that it was one I was so privileged to have experienced. From a FleetWatch view, it marks the end of a relationship where Jack – among other activities - acted as our legislation correspondent unravelling, as was his way, complicated legislative matters into easy to understand, graspable English for the benefit of our readers. Jack occupied a unique position in this arena for not only did he understand complex legislative issues but, having an exceptional grasp of on-the-road operational conditions, he could analyse and give expert opinion on the practicality – or impracticality - of matching existing or pending legislation to operational realities. In this role, he was unique. From an industry perspective, it marks the end of an era which started in 1937 when an unknown 18-year-old draughtsman arrived on our shores from England and over the ensuing 70 years, used his knowledge, passion and skill to contribute in so many ways to so many people in so many sectors of our industry and our country. Jack Webster can truly be afforded the title of ‘Statesman of the South African Trucking Industry’. Yes, that is what this man was to this industry – a Statesman in the true sense of the word for never in all the years did he embrace narrow, self-vested interest as a motive for any of his actions. If he thought the industry was at fault in some issue involving Government, he would "tell it as it is". Conversely, if he thought the Government was at fault, he would "tell it as it is". Let’s face it, he wasn’t called the ‘Yorkshire Terrier’ for nothing! Yet, throughout all this, he would bear the best interests of everyone at heart – not least of which was the interest of South Africa as a whole for he, possibly more than anyone else, knew of the far-reaching impact trucking has on every aspect of South African life and its economy. He knew this better than any businessman or politician has ever known it. To go into the full details of the many roles Jack played over the years would fill a book with each chapter recalling some unique and innovative contribution. One chapter could certainly deal with the positive role he played in his much beloved Institute of Road Transport Engineers, an organisation which in 1982, afforded him the honour of being the only Corporate Fellow in South Africa. Another chapter could deal with his role as executive director of the Professional Hauliers Association (PHA) which later became known as the Public Carriers Association (PCA) and is today known as the Road Freight Association. Another could deal with the many committees he served on, including the National Transport Policy Study which recommended the demise of the Road Carrier Permit System for the transportation of freight by road in South Africa – and succeeded in getting the system scrapped. Then there would be a chapter on the contribution he made while serving on several SA Bureau of Standards Technical Committees in respect of Vehicles and Road Transport as well as on the National Executive of the SA Road Federation. Of course you’d need quite a few chapters to detail the multiple roles he played in positions such as Chairman of the ASSOCOM Transport Consultative Committee; as Chief Executive Liaison Officer for the Federation of Road Transport Associations; as a member of the Fuel Conservation Committee in Road Transport; as a member of the Steering Committee launched by the National Institute for Road Research on the formation of the Road Transport Industry Training Board (RTITB). And of course, for the vital role he played while serving on the Cloete Committee which was convened by Government and charged with the task of investigating and making recommendations relating to the mass (weight) and dimensions of vehicles. But, the longest chapter of all would be the role he played in uplifting and enhancing the lives of thousands of individuals both through his role as a lecturer at the Rand Afrikaans University’s Transport Certificate and Diploma Courses – which he was instrumental in starting – as well as through personal contact with individuals in this industry. And that is where this man really stood out. He had as much time for the individual as he did for large corporations, organised bodies and Government. There are some great names that are – and will be - highlighted in the history books of South Africa. Names like Jan Smuts, Chris Barnard, Nelson Mandela, Bishop Tutu, and Gary Player. I contend that up there with them will be the name Jack Webster for although his main sphere of influence reigned within the trucking industry, it is that industry which stretches its tentacles into every corner of South Africa’s life – and ‘Uncle Jack’ always wanted to make that life better for all. He is truly one of South Africa’s greatest sons. Go well good friend. Heaven’s Highways await you. Patrick O’Leary
Jack
Webster Tributes On behalf of Unitrans and the Cape IRTE Region, we would like to express our sincere condolences to Jack's family, friends and colleagues. As many know, Jack was a doyen in the transport industry and many of the industry leaders of today passed through his teachings. We all know the valuable contribution Jack has made, not only in the transport industry but also in government with changes in legislation. Jack's knowledge, humour, and willingness to assist all will be missed by all who new him personally and by reputation. On the lighter side, I can recall occasions when members (in Class / Seminars) would refer to a truck tractor as a "mechanical horse", Jack would not take that and after regaining some colour, would lecture the poor person on the English Language and the differences. Allen Dunn, Our condolences to the family, a truly inspirational great Trucking man whose journals will live forever, Cameron Robertson, As a friend and student, thank you what you have done for the industry. Rest in peace. Christo de Beer,
Very sad news, a true character, a legend in his own lifetime. I was very privileged to have known Jack for the past 30 years in this transport industry of ours in SA. Jack was always there to help and advise us. Jack will be quoted for many years to come, and will always be the "measure or the yardstick" of those who follow in this industry of ours. Lyndon J. Smith - BP Oil Africa BU
Jack was a pillar of the transport industry, his passing will affect all those that had the privilege of knowing and working with him. He lead by example and taught many of us to be like him, passionate about the industry in which we serve. Jack, both from me and I know I can speak for all of your many colleagues at the Durban Centre of the IRTE, rest in peace, you've done more than your bit in the strive for increasing professionalism in transport in South Africa. Dave Foulds, Dear Jack Dave Mills,
Jack said, "It's in the book."
Ian Byers, It was with great sadness that we learnt of the passing away of one of the doyens of our industry, Jack Webster. Jack will always be remembered for his immense contribution as a stalwart to the entire trucking industry. On behalf of all at MAN Truck & Bus South Africa, I wish to convey our sincere condolences to his family. Our thoughts are with you at this time of sadness. Geoff du Plessis, CEO, It is with sadness that we want to pay tribute to the Giant, Jack Webster. We most definitely will miss him. Gert Ebersohn, Senior Manager: Life has many pleasures and displeasures.............. Hilton Cathcart and Team, Jack Webster and I interacted a lot in the 80's and 90's when the Compulsory Vehicle Safety Standards of the SABS were being developed and implemented. Without Jack's clarity of thought and purpose - and without his inimitable style of persuasion - we would never have been able to get some of our TC members to go along with costly or inconvenient proposals to improve safety! Much of the content of our Compulsory Vehicle Safety Standards, and of the Road Traffic Regulations, will be a legacy of Jack's contribution to road safety for many decades ahead. Ian Charlton, formerly of SABS The passing of Jack Webster came as very sad news to all of us at Freightliner Mitsubishi FUSO. On behalf of the division I wish to pass on our commiseration and deepest condolences to his family and friends. He was indeed a giant of the trucking industry and will be sorely missed. Ian Riley,
I first met Jack Webster in 1966 when I was a trainee engineer in the then Road Transport Service of the SAR&H. I was fresh out of university, and didn't know the difference between a fifth wheel and a steering wheel. I had to do a prototype inspection on the first of a new series of semi-trailers that Trailer Manufacturing Company (TMC) - later to become Henred Fruehauf Trailers - was building for the RTS, and I was instructed to see a fellow by the name of Jack Webster. In spite of the difference in our ages (Jack was about twice my age at the time) and my total lack of experience of transport and heavy vehicles, we immediately hit it off. It was the start of a friendship that lasted over 40 years. Years after I left the SAR&H, and Jack left TMC, we regularly bumped into each other and in fact collaborated on a number of investigations. I remember the case of a truckmixer which "ran away" in Durban and ended up on a railway line. Another investigation dealt with inadequate axle articulation on Leyland Hippo 8X4 vehicles, resulting in the vehicles getting "hung up" and losing traction when leaving the owner's site. Jack was instrumental in my joining The Institute of Road Transport Engineers in 1975, and I maintain my membership to this day. After I moved to Cape Town, I continued to have regular contact with Jack, and he presented numerous papers and talks to the Cape centre of the IRTE over the next 25 years or so. Jack was one of the founder presenters when the Rand Afrikaans University started the Diploma course in Road Transportation - initially on behalf of the Department of Transport, and later as an autonomous course. I was a student of Jack's when I did the course in the mid 1980s. One of my prized possessions is the Jack Webster Trophy which I received as the best student in my final year. After Jack scaled down his lecturing commitments with RAU, I eventually followed in his footsteps by presenting some of the subjects at the RAU holiday schools. My course notes were based to a large extent on the notes Jack developed some 10 years earlier. Throughout my career in the road transport industry, I knew that I could at any stage pick up the phone, or send an e-mail to Jack if I had any question regarding road traffic legislation or even vehicle technology. Although Jack was known for his colourful vocabulary, he was always courteous even when I asked "stupid" questions. Jack will be sorely missed. An era in the road transport industry has passed. Karl de Villiers, On behalf of the Arrive Alive website I would like to express our condolences to the family and colleagues of 'Oom Jack Webster". His input and expertise on road safety will be missed and it is our wish that his contributions will motivate us all to do our utmost in creating further awareness of road safety! Johan Jonck We were all
saddened to hear of the passing away of Uncle Jack Webster. Your own reflection of what he has achieved will most likely echo the sentiments of everyone who also knew him. We will remember him not only for the contribution he made to transport, and the respect he demanded as a friend, mentor, brilliant mind (both technically and legally), but more important as a man who always presented himself with integrity and honesty. His wisdom, in his wide field of expertise, was unmatched in the time we shared life with him. Uncle Jack triggered my personal passion for this Industry. I paged through many articles in my possession dating back to the mid seventies and I still refer to them from time to time. He will remain as my mentor for the rest of my life. Those who never met him personally, are somewhat poorer in sharing the passion he had for Trucks. IJ Greeff, It's always sad when someone so special in the hearts of many passes away and great to see how he is remembered by those who loved him. Marja Brunninger, MAN Truck and Bus We at Golden Victory Logistics and Teague Distributors send our condolences to the family and working associates. Megan and Hugh Orr & Staff of Golden Deepest sympathy to all family and friends. Jack certainly left his mark on our industry and will be sorely missed. May his soul rest in peace. Moses Naidoo, Henred Fruehauf / SA Jack has had a significant impact on the industry over the decades and will always be remembered for his pivotal influence. We certainly appreciated his assistance on many occasions. Castrol would like to extend their condolences to Jack's family and friends. Philippa Dodds, The passing away of Jack leaves a huge vacuum in especially the road transport industry. Jack's involvement over many years in the establishment and support of the road transport courses at the then RAU, has benefited more than 38 000 students since 1980. He was a loyal supporter of these programmes and his influence in our department and industry has been tremendous. His enthusiasm for his subject, as well as teaching, was really something to experience. Prof Jackie Walters
Dear Carol Richard Proctor-Sims May his soul rest in peace for all the wonderful work he has done for the road transport industry. Willie du Toit - With heartfelt sympathy from the RTMC to staff and readers of FleetWatch Magazine and the family of the late Jack Webster. May you endure these days of loss and arrive at a place of peace and understanding, Our thoughts are with you during this time of loss and sadness. The Road Traffic Management Corporation This is indeed sad news, the loss of a friend and mentor to so many in this transport industry of ours, we will miss his great ability to de-mystify the regulations contained in the RTAct, his passion for our game and his sheer presence. I have been in many meetings with Jack and the DoT. He was always on top of his game and a formidable opponent and in true Northern style told it as it was. I was always glad that I was on his side - it was better that way! He has made an enormous contribution to South African transport and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Go well Jack and rest in peace. Ted Stanton - SAB-Miller I and all my wonderful associates in the amazing transport industry, who have always held strong and good feelings towards Uncle Jack for his friendly and effective involvement in multitudes of transport projects, wish to express our fondest appreciation to the memory of this stalwart of stalwarts in our beloved industry. May the memory of his dedication and commitment spur us on to achieving great things in our privileged involvement in the fraternity of true gentlemen with high quality diesel flowing through their veins. May the Good Lord reward Uncle Jack for his faithfulness and dedication to this great sector of the people business. May he rest in peace!! Terry Roe and Associates, It is with regret that we heard of the passing of Jack Webster. Whether you are a truck builder, truck dealer, truck operator, truck driver, or truck mechanic our lives have in one way or another changed, by the tremendous input afforded to us by Uncle Jack. His understanding and knowledge of this complex and ever changing industry will be sorely missed. Mrs. Kelly Durham One often hears the saying "the world is a smaller place without...........". These are very fine words, but don't always fit the situation. But when I opened my mail and read of the sad passing of "Uncle Jack", these are the first words I thought of. Jack Webster was a true doyen in an industry to which he had given himself body and soul. I have attended many meetings where Uncle Jack would sit for a long time listening to everyone's opinions, mostly far younger and definitely less well informed. When he had had enough he put his hand up, that hand that could silence a meeting so quickly, because everyone stood back out of respect for one so far ahead of the rest, in knowledge of the industry, the legislation and all facts relating to the transport industry. Uncle Jack was always mindful of the need for control in an industry where control is seriously lacking, and he never gave up trying to make that industry a better place for all concerned. And he used his own basic but very wise logic to put matters forward, and he never stood back for anyone or anything. Why? Because he was one of the very few who was truly driven by care. Care for the industry, care for those in the industry as well as those who the industry could affect, but above all, care for right against wrong. Here the words ring true, for the transport world in S.A. is most definitely a smaller place without Uncle Jack Webster, and very much quieter, without his voice bringing order back into so many discussions. He will be remembered. My sincere condolences to Carol, and the many people whose lives he touched. Their world will also be smaller now. Marcus Haw I was extremely sorry to hear of the untimely passing of Jack - he was truly, as you quite rightly described him - a Giant of the Industry. Small in stature but a transport encyclopaedia - of Britannica proportions -on legs. His contribution to the South African transport industry was immense - particularly the NRTA. I first met Jack when the old "RAU" Transport Course - was launched. He was in "full flight" on vehicle plating and giving it stick as only he could. Two things stuck out from that occasion - one being his incredible writing - he printed each letter absolutely perfectly - line after line. ( a modern printer could not have done better ) - a sign of an exceptionally tidy mind ! The other was his incredible knowledge of the law - quoted without reference to notes -VERBATIM. He answered all questions thrown at him without need to refer to text. The big lesson that came out of it - was logic, logic, logic. Jack that day taught me vehicle plating - a piece of information that I tell all "newbies" to transport - is the absolute keystone to transport - understand that and you understand the basic law relating to transport and reasons thereto. From that day I understood why it made 100% sense to always operate a vehicle legally - and in many ways that is one of the main reasons, behind my success. Over the years I have used this knowledge to help design my own trailers - thus giving me the marketing edge and market angle I needed. Unfortunately, I only had occasional reason to contact him over the years- normally with a particularly vexing problem. As always he was helpful and insightful - a true gentleman of the game. Rest well Jack - I'll be drinking a wee dram to you tonight and enjoying the memories! Kevin Martin - While I never was fortunate enough to get to know Jack very well on a personal level, I was privileged to attend several conferences where he was a speaker and the respect that he commanded from his knowledge of our industry was awe inspiring. One of the best things about our industry is the quality of people that dedicate their lives to the betterment of trucking and "Uncle Jack" exemplified these qualities. He is going to be sorely missed by us all. Tim Quinlan, Regional Vice President, Uncle Jack - You taught me so much and were always ready to answer my questions. You always had an amusing story to tell from your wealth of experience. It was indeed a privilege to work with you and I shall miss our daily telephone conversations. Rest in peace. Helga Spring, FleetWatch We are saddened at this news - Jack was a great asset to the industry as well as a wonderful person. All at Westrans Trucking and Western Transport send condolences to the family and friends. He will be surely missed by the great many people he dealt with. Boetie Greeff, Westrans
When I was first exposed to Jack more than 20 years ago, I firmly believed that he was an Australian, as he was always making reference to the "Pommies", and in a non too-complimentary fashion. It was only later as I got to know him better that I realised that he was himself a Pommie and very proud of his Yorkshire heritage, even though he had left the UK so long before. Over the years, he being from Yorkshire, and me from Lancashire, prompted much banter as to which was the better side of the Pennines (the natural border between the two counties). On more than one occasion Jack stated that anyone can propagate a red rose (the Lancashire county flower) whereas there was only one white rose (the Yorkshire flower), and true passion was required to produce such a pure flower. Jim Campbell, International Trucks
The Transport world in South Africa lost a great icon, may he rest in peace. Sympathy to his family. Louis Anderson and Personnel, To a wonderful friend, advisor and mentor for the past 38 years. You must be the greatest disciple the South African transport industry has ever known, you taught so many who in turn taught many, many more. Today we all "walk the talk" you so passionately imparted to us. We are all blessed by the knowledge you so unselfishly shared with everyone, we are all the richer for having the privilege of listening to and learning from you. Thank you for all the never ending support and advice, We will never forget you, till we meet again, Peter Wraight, Daimler Chrysler SA "Oom Jack, thank you for teaching me more in the six months I sat opposite you in your office at Lexetran, than my four years at university. Your enthusiasm for transport guided me to my career. I will always be grateful for all the things you taught me. If they have trucks in heaven, I am sure you will improve on the design. We will miss you." Alta Swanepoel The death of Jack Webster came as a shock however we must say that it was an honour to have known him. His tracks in Transport will be visible for a long time. Even at an age where most other people only sit on the stoep and watch the days go by, he was still actively involved in the Transport Industry and always willing to give advice. We will remember him for his example in commitment and living for what he loved - Transport. We will miss him but he deserves the everlasting rest. Japie Burger, on behalf of the In the early 1970's when I first met Jack Webster he was already a very much respected icon in the road transport industry in South Africa. Although he was probably THE leading expert in the industry, he always had time for anyone seeking advice or guidance on the Transport laws, how to comply with the legal requirements and practically any matter relating to road transport. In all his dealings he was straight to the point and always a gentleman. Although the passing of Jack Webster is a sad loss to the road transport industry, it is a much better industry today thanks to all he did for its upliftment and well-being. The legacy of JACK WEBSTER will live and be respected for many decades to come. John Ackermann Having lectured in Road Transport Health and Safety for years for RAU, I was associated in this and other ventures with Jack for many years - the last time I saw him he told me he was giving up lecturing as he realised he often told the same joke twice in one day and to him this was a sign of advancing age! He stuck to his guns and the written word - and we all know the contribution he made to the industry. A real gentleman who will be sadly and sorely missed!. Ted Rowen, Ted Rowen and Associates Jack has always been a friend to all who persevered to operate within the road ordinance laws & a foe to those that abused the regulations. He was always available to help Serco with interpretations of the law & assist with new designs that needed modifications & changes to the law. His presence will be sadly missed in the industry . As a person, you couldn't find anyone as dedicated to his profession. Trevor Holcroft It was with great sadness that we received the news of Jacks passing. Our heartfelt sympathy to the family. Jack was a tremendous person who was greatly respected for his contribution and enthusiasm to Leyland SA. Our condolences, thoughts and love to you all. Mike and Di Elsbury. That's very sad. A great journalist and a very warmhearted man. Please convey my sympathies and accept them yourself. Graeme Addison Jack will always be remembered as an icon in the road transport Industry, we in the freight industry would like to claim him for our own but he was equally active in the passenger industry. Richard Nicholson
Jack was my teacher when I did my Transport Management education through Wits, many years ago. In my estimation, he was a real man with integrity and stood by his convictions. He taught me a whole lot of things which I will remember for as long as I am in the Trucking business......and beyond.
May he rest in peace. My sincere condolences to his family. Frans Schellingerhout
I am deeply saddened since I learned of Jack's passing away. It has been hard for me to console myself for the loss of a dear friend and a great human being before anything else. Mrs. D.C. de Beer Jack Webster was highly respected by all of us in the transport industry. His contribution will be remembered and he will be sadly missed. Graham Thomson
On behalf of Afrit's Management and personnel I wish to pay tribute to a formidable and respected man, Uncle Jack Webster, who passed away so suddenly this week. Johan van de Wetering On behalf of the Management and staff of Tata Automobile Corporation SA (Pty) Ltd, we wish to extend our sincere condolences to family, friends and colleagues of the late Jack Webster. We are certain that his presence in this industry will be missed. Doug Viljoen I'm so sorry to hear about "Uncle Jack". I never personally worked with him, but met him in the corridors of the Department a few times. Marleen Ronald
I am no longer with the Dept of Transport - and I wonder if there is anyone left there who worked with or knew Jack. I had the pleasure of interacting with Jack on a number of occasions and gained much from his experience, knowledge and wisdom. It was a very parasitic relationship from my side (I am not sure what Jack had to gain from interacting with me - but wow, did I learn a lot). Most people (at the DoT) would run a mile when Jack came around ..... Gavin A Kelly
Please pass my and Ezethu Logistics' deep condolences to the Fleetwatch team and to Jack's beloved ones. May his Soul Rest In Peace. Thami Mabitsela, Ezethu Logistics
It is with regret that I learnt of the passing of Jack Webster. We wish to express our sincere sympathy to his family and loved ones. The transport industry has indeed lost a giant and I do not think that the contribution and input that Jack has given over the years will ever be fully recognized and appreciated by the industry at large. My association with Jack goes back to the 1970's, when he was at Leyland. He was always a thorough gentleman and whenever an individual or company experienced any problem related to transport, Jack was available to assist and most of the times went far beyond the normal expectations. I salute Jack and will have good memories of our association through the years. Leon de Beer On behalf of the Board and Members of the Professional Movers Association, the PMA would like to extend its condolences to the Webster family. It is well known that Jack was highly regarded and respected in the road freight industry, due to his unwavering commitment to the road freight industry. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time. Dirk Smit, Professional Movers Association I was greatly saddened to learn of Jack Webster's passing. Across the miles from Ireland, may I add my sincere respect for his important contribution to the Industry in South Africa and especially for the personal help and assistance he so readily gave to me in establishing Shamrock Handling Concepts in South Africa. Throughout the subsequent years Marius and I sought out the "the authority" on many occasions. We were always warmly welcomed and professionally serviced. We have indeed lost someone we could always trust. Don Beck, Ireland We give thanks for your love reflected in Jack's life and for the joys we have shared with Jack. Free us from all bitterness and regret. Grant rest eternal to him O Lord and let light perpetual shine upon him. Richard Tanner, Please convey our sympathies to the Family. Rajen Pillay Thank you for your e-mail with the sad news of Jack's passing. I have always held him in the highest regard. I owe him a great deal in that he influenced my life with all the wisdom he imparted during the years when he lectured at R.A.U. I would very much like to express my condolences as well as appreciation for what he meant to me, to his family. Steve Gous All our members of the RMI / National Vehicle Testing Association are deeply saddened at the passing of a man who set the bench mark in terms of safety and integrity. Jack never hesitated to give our association guidance and advice whenever we needed it. We will miss you, Jack, may you rest in peace. Wally Cracknell To have known and been mentored and befriended by this incredible man is humbling and I feel honoured to have been influenced by this giant of the transport industry It was a privilege for my family and me to know Jack and Carol as our friends. Our deepest sympathies to Carol and the rest of the family. Andy Visagie, MD, Plant and Equipment. I agree that Uncle Jack Webster was an expert in the field of the trucking industry and it will be difficult to replace him. However, the valuable contribution he made will liveon for many decades as confirmed by all the many trips being made all over South Africa by trucks every day. Bob Capindale Thank you so much for passing on the sad news of Mr Webster's passing - his legacy will indeed live on. I had the privilege of working as secretary to this incredible man at Fruehauf many years back, but have unfortunately not maintained contact over recent years. Yvonne Butts From all the staff at Out Of Africa Stone we wish to send our deepest condolences to the Webster family. Jack will be greatly missed . Management & Staff, Out of Africa Stone Jack was to the Trucking/Trailer industry what Nelson Mandela was (and still is) to this country - he was an ICON and had more knowledge about the transport business in his little fingers than a lot of people have in their heads. May Jack rest in peace. Wolfgang Lehmann In keeping with the entire trucking industry, we are very saddened by the loss of a stalwart of the magnitude of Jack Webster. His passing leaves a void which is nearly impossible to fill, his main qualification of QBE (qualified by experience) is the reality of the years spent at the sharp end of our industry and we will miss the knowledge, wisdom and personality which was Jack. Ted Hughes It is with great sadness that the Road Freight Association learnt of the passing of Jack Webster. Jack was a stalwart in the road freight industry, a fountain of knowledge and a treasure-trove of wisdom. There are very few in the industry today who did not partake of the wealth of knowledge Jack had to share. Jack played an integral role in the formation of the Association as well as spearheading the development of the now well known road transportation course presently offered at the University of Johannesburg. Jack remained an Honorary Member of the RFA and continued to play an active role in road freight issues. His commitment and contribution to the industry will be greatly missed. On behalf of the road freight industry, the RFA would like to extend its condolences to the Webster family. We join you in having lost a father, a mentor and a companion. We trust that you will take solace in the knowledge that Jack was (and still is) seen as a pillar of integrity, a shining example and an excellent friend to have. May he rest in peace. Sharmini Naidoo, BIG JACK, as I mainly referred to him, will be sorely missed. He was a great man. John Warland. Jack, often critical and somewhat outspoken, had a missionary zeal about road transportation. Having, over many decades, made a major contribution in "writing the book", he was extremely generous in giving freely of his vast knowledge and experience, especially at IRTE meetings, often continuing long after "closing time". He could well be regarded as the patron saint of road transportation, and will always be remembered with respect, admiration and affection. Guido Marchio,
I have known Jack since my arrival in South Africa in 1975 and despite his arrival in this country in 1937, he never lost his Yorkshire accent. Jack, very much a doyen of the industry was a wealth of information and always had a story to tell. He will be sadly missed. I will always remember him, when he said to me so many times, "The best Yorkshire Pudding I ever had was in Aberystwyth" (Wales). Dai Davies O.B.E. I first met Jack when RAU introduced the Transport Certificate in the early 80's and he was the Legislation lecturer. His knowledge and experience were amazing , also the interest he showed in all the students and of course his great knowledge of CASTLE. He showed the youngsters a thing or two in regard to the consumption of beer. He will be sorely missed and I am sad to say can never be replaced. He was an inspiration to all of us who have a passion for the transport fraternity. Liam Hickey, Payload Truck Hire I first met Uncle Jack in the early 1970's when I joined the I.R.T.E when I was involved with containerization, having just returned from my 5 years overseas in materials handling. Jack was the only person then to know what docking meant in transport and distribution. Most people thought in terms of ships docking at harbours while Jack in his straightforwardness said, in fact trains dock at stations, trucks dock up against loading bays and space crafts dock in outer space. Jack's knowledge of road ordinance helped bring about containerization into South Africa. His direct, straight down the line, no holds bar attitude and dedication to our industry will have an everlasting effect on us and generations to come. His admirable worldly knowledge of transport & distribution was made to be desired by all. Andrew C Stewart, Very sorry to hear of the demise of Jack Webster, our heartfelt condolences to his family. It warms our hearts to know how he the people he met in his lifetime. Good work, Jack ! You have taught us well. Steve van Vuuren We were very sad to hear of the passing of Uncle Jack Webster, a Doyen of the Transport Industry, and a revered Englishman who made a major impact in the Transport Industry of his adopted country. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. John Barnett Our deepest condolences to the Webster Family during this dark hour that has prevailed. Indeed Jack contributed a lot to the Trucking Industry and with all his advice we managed to sail through the hard times and even managed to grow the business. We will always remember him and may his soul rest in peace. Frank Mawoko, Prime Trucking Jack, how can anyone ever forget the Grand Daddy of South African Road Transportation. We at The Cold Chain, will forever be in your debt for the sterling and professional advice given to us. As my ex tutor at RAU, may you rest in peace.
Joe Kotze That is indeed sad news. Jack worked with me on many occasions over the years. What a character! Rest in peace old friend. Mike Crankshaw, CEO, FleetCUBE He will be missed by all in the SADC region. Some knowledge is unique and, quite simply, not replaceable. R.I.P.Jack. Peter Forgarty, Uncle Jack, we will all miss your knowledge of trucking legislation, regulation and sheer good sense. We will miss your commitment to the industry, and your wonderful sense of humour. You have served your time well, with commitment and responsibility. Wendy Watson It was with great sadness that we at Nissan Diesel learned of the passing of Uncle Jack Webster. Jack touched so many lives, especially those involved in the South African truck industry. He mentored so many people through his many teachings on topics such as the intricacies of the Road Traffic Act, vehicle selections and transport operations in general. He truly had a profound impact on the transport industry and is a shining example that even in our later years; we can still make a significant contribution to build a better South Africa for all. We at Nissan Diesel wish to express our sincere condolences to Carol and her family. Jack, you will be missed but surely not forgotten. Rory Schulz, Vice President of Operations Jack Webster should have been appointed as the Minister of Transport! Dr John Ledger, Editor - My sincere condolences to the Webster family. I treasure the occasions I shared his company and the times he tutored us about transport. He was unique and his passing is a great loss to the transport industry. We were fortunate to have known him. Errol Engelbrecht
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Copyright © 2007
FleetWatch magazine and FleetWatch On-Line.
No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior written
permission from the publishers.
Views published are not necessarily those of the publishers.
Warm Cameraderie
(from left): Roger Naisby,
Clive Wooley, Bill Factor, Jack Webster and Phil Erasmus 
AT 86 years
old, still sharp and contributing to FleetWatch magazine
