By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
Ron Duquette, an equipment operator with the Municipality of Lakeshore, recently placed first at the Truck Roadeo hosted by the local chapter of the Association of Ontario Road Supervisors (AORS).
Duquette’s win marks the first time a Lakeshore staff member has taken top honours at the event. He will now advance to the provincial-level competition in September.
“My background is in residential excavation. I owned and operated a trucking company, offering dump truck services to local excavation contractors for a little over 28 years,” said Duquette. “I had the opportunity to join the Lakeshore team four years ago.”
Duquette said that aside from operating machinery for snow removal, his experience with plow trucks has been limited to his time at Lakeshore. “Proper training and solid equipment have definitely helped to hone my skills,” he said.
Each year, local chapters of AORS host Truck Roadeos to promote safety, courtesy and professional public works driving skills in a competitive setting. The competition tests safety and driving skills on trucks equipped with snowplows and wings. Events include a pre-trip inspection, an obstacle course simulating real-world scenarios, and a written test.
Two winners from each local association move on to the Provincial Safety Truck Roadeo, which showcases the expertise of Ontario’s top municipal equipment operators.
Duquette earned the highest score in this year’s local competition, with 352 out of a possible 395 points. Shawn Marchand, of the Town of Essex, placed second with a score of 347.
“I was interested in being part of this competition to see where I stack up against real-world drivers,” said Duquette. “It’s more than just the competition; it’s a chance to network, share stories and maybe pick up some tips and tricks. Also, AORS brings in vendors showcasing new products. It’s just plain fun.”
This year’s provincial competition will be hosted by the Lanark County Road Supervisors Association on Wednesday, Sept. 24, in Carleton Place.
“The local association was thrilled with the turnout of 34 drivers from area municipalities and is pleased to send Ron and Shawn on to the provincial competition,” said Kirby McArdle, AORS representative for the Essex County Municipal Supervisors Association.
Duquette competed at the provincial level last year and admitted nerves got the better of him, finishing mid-pack.
“Finishing second regionally last year definitely inspired me to do all I could this year,” he said. “The show in September is much the same, just on steroids — bigger vendors, better drivers and more bragging rights on the line.”
“I’m thrilled to be the first Lakeshore staff member to win the local event, and I’m proud to represent the municipality at the provincial competition.”
Duquette said he looks forward to carrying on the winning spirit and putting Lakeshore on the map among Ontario’s top operators.
“On behalf of council and our communities, congratulations to Ron for his outstanding performance and good luck as he moves on to represent Lakeshore later this year,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey. “Team Lakeshore members like Ron play a crucial role in keeping our roads and communities safe — we appreciate the work they do every day.”
Be the first to comment