Fastway courier driving duo Brutus and Craig Hausman. PHOTO/SUPPLIED
Fastway courier driving duo Brutus and Craig Hausman. PHOTO/SUPPLIED
Not every man and his dog can boast a lifetime on the road together making their community's parcel deliveries, but that's exactly what Whangarei courier franchisee Craig Hausman and best mate Brutus have clocked up.
The popular pair has been recognised along with 260 other Fastway Courier franchisees across thecountry as part of the company's first Courier Day.
Courier Day, on September 21, was designed to get Fastway's head office team out from behind the desk and behind the wheel.
It's a chance for the company back office support team to get a taste of what it takes to be a courier driver and Fastway's chief executive Scott Jenyns is looking forward to hitting the road.
"Our courier franchisees are out and about every day, rain, hail or shine. They do a remarkable job day in, day out, and we as a company want to officially recognise that." said Mr Jenyns.
Ten-year-old foxy Brutus normally assumes "pole position" right next to Mr Hausman on the front seat. They've both spent the past 10 years collecting parcels and making deliveries for Whangarei's commercial and retail sectors.
Mr Hausman started with Fastway 20 years ago but said since teaming up with Brutus the pair has become a favourite fixture about town.
"I definitely have my regulars who know Brutus well. My customers love him and he knows how to work his canine charms.
"There's one particular lady who carries doggy lollies around with her waiting for Brutus to arrive. Needless to say he's a bit overweight and can no longer see his ribs!"
Now in his twilight years, Brutus is in semi-retirement, working three days a week.
Mr Hausman said Brutus has "had a great run" but the days can be long, out the door at 5am and home at 5pm. It's not uncommon for Mr Hausman to pick up about 220 parcels a day and hand deliver up to 200.
"I love my business because every day is different, I'm out meeting different people all the time ... I even picked up my wife on the job!"
Mr Hausman met his wife Cheryl at the local flower shop he used to make deliveries for. That was 17 years ago and since then Fastway's become a family affair for the pair with Cheryl now working in Fastway Whangarei's regional office.
When asked about the company's recent Fastway Courier Day, Mr Hausman said, "bring it on!
"It's great to be officially recognised on Courier Day for all the work we do. I think the head office team will gain an appreciation for what we do on the front line and with them rolling their sleeves up, I might even save some lifting."
