For tradies battling the relentless climate conditions of the far north, a truck that delivers on comfort and reliability is an absolute must.
When it came time to purchase a new truck that ticked all the boxes, Peter Poniris, founder of Darwin company Faith Constructions knew exactly where to turn – snapping up Isuzu’s versatile FRR 500 Short Tipper AMT.
“We’re mostly driving on highways and residential roads but we definitely have to get out on the dirt roads as well – and that’s why comfort was always going to be an important factor,” Peter said. “The Isri 6860 suspension seat is great for longer drives, especially on uncomfortable roads, and the fact that it’s an automatic rather than a manual means it’s an easy drive, it’s a hit with the drivers!”
Founded 16 years ago, Faith Constructions focuses on residential construction around Darwin, so manoeuvrability was also key for being able to tackle the suburban jobs with ease.
“We needed a truck that is easy to manoeuvre down driveways and into people’s front and backyards, and the FRR 500 – with its tight turning circle – was absolutely perfect,” Peter said.
“The tipper is also really handy for getting the job done, without taking up too much space. We use it to tip materials out onto the site, and to collect rubbish once we’re finished.”
But Faith Constructions also demands strength from its trucks, so the FRR 500’s load carrying capacity was an important consideration. With a GVM of 10,400kg, the model more than measured up.
“A lot of the work we do involves using a bobcat, so we have to transport that to and from worksites most days,” says Peter, who added a bulbar, extra lights and a towbar onto his latest workhorse. “The bobcat is very cumbersome, so we needed a truck that could carry four tonnes comfortably. The FRR 500 does that, and I never feel like we’re putting it under too much pressure.”
Given the company’s name, Faith Constructions unsurprisingly rely on their quality customer service to ensure their continued success.
“I think our name says it all, and what sets us apart from other companies is the service we provide,” Peter said. “We’re also well equipped to handle working in Northern Territory’s unique climate and I think that helps put people’s minds at rest – but like I said, we’d be nowhere without reliable trucks.”
With work steadily increasing, Peter is considering procuring another workhorse, and is looking at Isuzu again.
“The tipper is good for transporting around the bobcat but I need something bigger for haulage, and I’m considering a 10 tonne model next time,” Peter said. “I’ve already started looking around at models, but I’m sure I’ll be getting another Isuzu.”
