Thanks to improvements in forklift designs,
Greg - who recently retired - found driving them easier
Rain, hail or shine, Gregory Patmore rode his e-bike to work every day, never letting his disability define his dedication as a Forklift Driver at CHEP Australia, a proud Brambles brand.
Born with a congenital hand deformity with his right hand, Greg, who recently retired, began his long 44-year career at CHEP in Wickham – now CHEP Newcastle – in 1981.
“I was working with Access Industries, which helped disabled people enter the workforce, but I wanted a normal job,” Greg recalled. His determination led him to CHEP, where he found not just employment but a sense of purpose and belonging.
Early in his career, forklifts were also fully open, exposing drivers to the rain. But over the decades, advancements in forklift design significantly eased Greg’s work.
“The new forklifts are easier to operate. The controls are simpler to manage if you don’t have full use of your hands, unlike the old days with big steering wheels and levers that required both hands to grip and lift,” he explained.
The greatest comfort for Greg, however, has been the respect, dignity and equality he experienced at CHEP.
“I appreciate the fact that I’ve had a career driving a forklift for the past 44 years and CHEP/ Brambles has stuck behind me, provided opportunities I hadn't thought possible, and supported me the whole time.”
His manager, Trefor Willis-Jones, Service Centre Manager at Newcastle, praised Greg’s unwavering commitment:
“Greg was always one of the first people here on the site. His dedication, resilience and strength are inspiring.”
Trefor noted that his colleague had always exceeded expectations with his capabilities.
“Greg’s journey is a testament to both him and CHEP that he’s come from a point where he saw himself as disabled but keen to have a normal job. He’s succeeded and done a brilliant job.”
Although Greg has now hung up his CHEP boots and high vis vest, he is looking forward to catching up with his CHEP Newcastle friends to share a laugh and reconnect.
