Pioneers of the Road: The Remarkable Journey of Joe and Laurie Pincini

In the world of road transport, few stories are as captivating as that of Joe and Laurie Pincini. These brothers, hailing from Mirboo North, embarked on a journey that would not only redefine educational tours in Australia but also leave an indelible mark on the bus industry.

The Beginnings of a Legacy:In the late 1950s, the Pincini brothers founded Gippsland Educational Tours (GET), initially offering quality school-based coach tours. Their passion for providing unique and enriching experiences quickly gained them a loyal following. By the early 1960s, their clientele's growing thirst for adventure led the brothers to extend their tours to the Snowies and beyond.

A Bold Move to the Red Centre:1963 marked a pivotal year for GET as the Pincini brothers set their sights on Australia's Red Centre. Embracing the ruggedness of the outback, they provided passengers with basic yet essential camping gear in hessian sugar bags, fostering a spirit of self-sufficiency and adventure.

Evolving with Time:The following year, the brothers revolutionized their tours by introducing auto tents and providing meals, elevating the comfort of their outback adventures. Their first major foray northward with Nhill High School set a precedent, and soon schools across the region were eager to partake in these remarkable journeys.

The Birth of Funfari and Southern Cross Safaris:In 1972, GET evolved into Funfari Tours to cater to the wider public, marking the introduction of more sophisticated camping equipment and amenities. The Pincini legacy further expanded with the creation of Southern Cross Safaris, which saw the introduction of Australia’s first two MAN Coach Chassis, partnering with Pioneer for camping tours.

A Family Tradition Continues:The Pincini's dedication to the road transport industry became a family legacy, with the fourth generation continuing the tradition. Laurie’s son Paul, and his wife, Liz, have been involved in various tour companies, while Laurie Jnr and his son Nathan have continued to make significant contributions to the industry.

The story of Joe and Laurie Pincini is not just about the evolution of road tours in Australia; it's about innovation, family legacy, and the indomitable spirit of adventure. Their induction into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame in 2009 is a fitting tribute to their extraordinary contribution to the Australian road transport industry​​.