Barnett’s Couriers has closed its doors after 40 years. Image: Pete Wood
Long-running Wollongong trucking operator Barnett’s Couriers has closed, blaming a crippling cyber-attack earlier this year for its demise.
Big Rigs couldn’t reach the company for further comment, but a recorded message on an emergency mobile number confirmed the news.
“As you know, Barnett’s Couriers has been the victim of a cyber incident and consequently our business cannot operate productively,” said the message.
“Although we have been working tirelessly with leading IT consultants to restore our systems, regrettably we have been unable to overcome these challenges and have made the difficult decision to cease operating Barnett’s Couriers.
“We want to thank you, our customers, for the loyalty you have shown to our business over 40 years.”
The message goes on to relay email addresses for further inquiries – [email protected], or [email protected].
Both, however, triggered automatic reponses similar to the voicemail, with the accounts email adding the below:
“We have a small team who will be finalising all outstanding accounts in the coming weeks. Your patience is appreciated whilst our team also work through the backlog of queries that we have received.”
In a radio interview last week, TWU’s NSW secretary Richard Olsen said he was deeply concerned to learn that Barnett’s had abruptly closed and was urging the company to provide clarity on the situation and ensure workers are fairly compensated.
Olsen understands that the majority of its truckies were owner-drivers who were totally reliant on work through the company.
“What we’re very concerned about is that these people are probably paid on a monthly basis, at best, so there’ll be thousands of dollars outstanding to these owner-drivers.
“They’re stuck with at truck now and no work and that could be thousands and thousands of dollars.”
If you are a driver impacted, or know more, and would like to help us update the story, please email [email protected].
More to come.
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