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KW’s 90,000th Australian-manufactured truck
The 90,000th Australian-manufactured Kenworth truck was officially delivered, during a celebration at Paccar’s Bayswater production facility in Melbourne.
The first Kenworths arrived in Australia in 1962, when several were imported by truck operator Ed Cameron and local assembly of Kenworths started in 1970.
It took some time for the premium-priced Kenworth to be accepted, but the market-specific 1974 SAR proved to be a turning point. The ’S’ stood for short bonnet and the ‘AR’ for Australian Right Hand Drive. W900 models had great appeal to owner operators.
For the full timeline of Kenworth Down Under, check out the KW story in our Truck Brands section.
Since setting up local manufacturing in 1971, Kenworth has consistently expanded to meet growing demand. The company reached an early milestone in 1974, with the delivery of the 1000th Australian made truck: a COE K125CR.
More than 50 years later, the 90,000th Kenworth was produced at Bayswater and delivered on 19th June 2026, to Geelong-based McColls Transport, during an all-employee event celebrating Australian manufacturing, where both the 1000th and 90,000th vehicles were displayed.
Kenworth employees were joined by McColls CEO, Simon Thornton, along with National Fleet Manager, John Hovey, who accepted the keys to their new T909 from Paccar Australia Managing Director, Damian Smethurst.
“This marks a significant achievement for Paccar in Australia and reflects the longstanding dedication of its employees, dealers, suppliers and customers.” Damian Smethurst said.
“Each truck is purpose-built to suit its specific application and operating environment, with meticulous attention to detail that ensures the durability, performance and reliability expected by our customers.”
Loyal KW customers like McColls Transport, who have taken delivery of nearly 400 KWs, play an integral role the company’s Australian market success.
Paccar also acknowledged the critical contribution of its Australian supply partners; many of whom have supported the Bayswater facility since the plant commenced production in 1971. Paccar and its partners support customers in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.
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