Daimler Truck crowns top technicians in Melbourne competition

Daimler Truck has announced the winners of its Technician of the Year competition held at the Daimler Truck Training Academy in Mulgrave, Victoria. The finalists underwent technical theory assessments, real-world diagnostic challenges, and practical hands-on evaluations.

In the Freightliner category, Josh Cook of Keith Andrews Hamilton was named the 2026 Freightliner Technician of the Year. Sam Jalalabadi from Daimler Trucks Laverton placed second, and Bradley Skein from Daimler Trucks Wagga took third.

For the Mercedes-Benz Trucks category, Brendan Haldane from Daimler Trucks Huntingwood was crowned the 2026 Technician of the Year. Peter Briggs from Daimler Trucks Brisbane finished second, with Archie Rousell from Daimler Trucks Brisbane in third.

Winners received a trip to either the United States or Germany. Stephen Downes, Daimler Truck Australia Pacific Vice President, noted that the competition highlights the critical role technicians play in customer success.