Essential workers: A Logistics Legend

Words Liam Stretch Artwork Anna McRobb

As the third instalment in this series with a focus on essential workers, we step into the world of a person in the logistics field. This is a line of work that literally keeps the country moving. From the truckers to the storeman, to the posties and courier drivers – these folks keep us stocked up on Nespresso pods and contact lenses.

Our third hero of the pandemic lockdown is Andre. He's been at his nine-till-five throughout this period and has been gracious enough to find some time to share with us what he has taken in over the last few weeks. He's definitely observed a change in the way things operated throughout the lockdown but is confident we've done the right thing. Here's Andre's perspective on the ins and outs of lockdown logistics. On any given day, his day-to-day work would see him at the forefront of ensuring stuff gets to where it is supposed to be.

"I currently work in logistics where my role on a day to day basis may include picking/dispatching orders, loading/ unloading freight, stock control, and so on and so forth! We look after and hold the client's product stocks and act as their supply chain to customers."

With the onset of lockdown and the wider impacts of COVID-19 taking hold, its grip effected the way his job and sector ran. During the initial stages of COVID-19 not too much changed in terms of operations, however, as the virus became more widespread and a serious issue at hand, strict regimes were put in place for the welfare of the team," Andre says. "There is a job to be done; however, we are increasingly more aware of what is happening around us and what knock-on effect that can have. Most importantly, we have the fundamentals in place to keep us safe, but it continues to be a process of learning and adapting."

Andre has enjoyed going to work as unlike many he didn't have much change in his normal routine. He sees himself as fortunate for this being his circumstance – and would rather not be at home twiddling his thumbs.

"I would rather be working than being stuck at home 24/7 with nowhere else to go! I count myself lucky that I still have a job to go to," he says. This doesn't mean things haven't changed, though – not necessarily in the world of logistics, but there is improved PPE and contactless delivery, the overall process remains the same; albeit with less traffic on the roads and increased demand. The most surprising aspect for him is what he has seen on the home front. 

"I wouldn't say there is that many things out there that come as a surprise with regards to what people are doing. Obviously, there is less traffic on the roads and whatnot, and I would say there are more people out and about walking, exercising etc., but it's essential in itself during this period to keep sane and fit."

"What does surprise me is how many people have decided to try their hand at becoming the next best home baker. It's all over the gram so you can't miss it!" he says. It's not all smooth sailing for Andre, however. There are some aspects of normal life that he sorely misses.

"The biggest challenge to overcome would simply be the lack of social interaction. I think this can be said for most. You really come to appreciate those who aren't around you during this time, and it makes it harder that you can't just go pop into your mates and say g' day." The challenges of this coronavirus do go further; not an immediate fear of the virus but a fear of what is to come.

"I guess the unknown is scary. The unknown being what could happen down the line. Job security, health security, what effects this could have on relationships. Looking at the bigger picture, who knows what could happen in time to come? All we can do is keep on keeping on and take one thing at a time!"

While most of us have had a chance to recharge and slow down – as aforementioned, for Andre, it was business as usual. So, I was intrigued whether he had a chance to join the rest of us in smelling the roses. I posed the question: Do you have time for you?

"Yep! When I'm not working, I'm trying to read more often, exercise a lot, drink copious amount of coffee, a touch of gardening and just trying to stay upbeat with the rest of the flatmates." Working through this upside-down world that we've all come to know over the last month has taught Andre a few things, and he is adamant about taking on somewhat of a new perspective on the environment that we are a part of.  

"I think you learn to become more cautious and aware of your surroundings. You definitely become more grateful for the things you miss and what you can't have during these times. A big one to come from this would be showing more appreciation to those you love and just a general sense for looking out for one another!"

Andre, you seem like a great guy. Take care. Thank you for keeping these islands moving. We all needed you more than you know.