As part of Global Transport’s continued commitment to maintaining staff on the ground, our Darwin office has proved just how important it is to have a local presence, a year after opening. Prior to setting up a local base, Global Transport managed just under 30 local policies. Today, that number is rapidly nearing 200, and State Manager of the Northern Territory, John Vanarey, couldn’t be happier in his new home.
Here’s what John had to say about making the big move north:
What have been the biggest challenges and highlights/rewards of the past year?
Initially, the heat and humidity certainly knocked me around! Darwin is one of those places where if you’re not in an air-conditioned building or vehicle, you constantly sweat. Having quickly adapted to the new environment, I set out to make new friends, meet all the Brokers and be involved in the local community. This involved joining sporting teams, young professional organizations, and many, many meetings at the pub (it’s a Darwin thing!).
I now call Darwin home!
How does the Darwin market differ from other GT markets?
Having worked within the ACT and Southern NSW Insurance markets, I can firmly say the Northern Territory market is very, very different! The vast distance between townships, and the distance many trucks travel to get to their destination within the Territory, all need to be taken into account when offering terms. As for the Brokers, well, they’ve all been very welcoming of another Heavy Motor Underwriter and are all very likeable and easy to get along with.
Does the climate/environment make for any unusual claim types?
Within the dry season, wildfires can be a large threat to vehicles; and in the wet season, cyclones and storms can also be a threat. The landscape up here is very flat and many of the roads are straight, which can lead to driver fatigue. Road trains can also be of concern; as you can imagine, if one were to roll over, the amount of damage can be very high, and possibly [lead to] a loss of life.
Do you deal with different vehicle types in the NT?
As mentioned above, road trains are quite prominent within the Territory when compared to other states and territories. These may be four trailers long and be can be travelling at up to 100km!
You were previously based in the ACT, how does the NT lifestyle differ from that of the nation’s capital?
Really, it’s from one extreme to the other—Canberra being cool to cold for around six months of the year, and Darwin being warm and humid all year round. The lifestyle in Darwin is certainly more relaxed, friendly, and a lot of time is spent outdoors with friends and colleagues. There is no dispute that Darwin is a young city, with plenty of potential for the future; and I certainly do not regret moving here (except for maybe missing the four seasons!). Also being so close to the rest of the world (especially Bali being only a two hour flight!) is of huge benefit, even for just a weekend escape.
If you had only one day in Darwin, what would be the three things you absolutely must do/see?
Only one day in Darwin? Um, there is just so much to see and do! I’d definitely take a trip to Litchfield National Park, then come back into town and walk along the Esplanade and Waterfront precinct; and finish off with a great meal (and few beers!) at one of the great local restaurants! I’ve been here for over one year now and there are still so many things I need to see and do!
Have you had any unwanted interactions with the local wildlife?
I’ve managed to steer clear of the crocs, except on organised tours! Snakes however, I’ve seen plenty of those when walking around Katherine Gorge and Edith Falls!! The NT News keeps me up to date with what’s happening in the life of crocs around Darwin!! Exceptional reading!
Located within the Darwin CBD, the Darwin office manages all new business, endorsements and renewals for the Northern Territory. The region spans a total of 17 Broking Houses, which includes three in Alice Springs, one in Katherine, and 13 in Darwin. It’s enough to keep John busy, that’s for sure.
To learn more about our Darwin office, please feel free to contact John on (08) 8981 7510 and johnv@gtais.com.au
