There aren’t many people in the Australian Bus and Coach industry who haven’t heard of Ray Andrich. And while his reputation as the stellar salesman of Volvo may precede him, it’s Ray’s warmth and humility that has truly made him into the industry stalwart he is today
April 21, 2023, marks Ray’s Andrich’s last day with Volvo Bus Australia, after an incredible 31 years of service.
Having started his career for Suttons Volvo in New South Wales, back in July 1984, Ray quickly made a place for himself in the industry.
By February 1992, Volvo Bus officially brought him on board as the New South Wales Regional Zone Sales Manager. And while his title may have changed over the years, most recently to Regional Sales Manager for New South Wales, Ray’s dedication and passion for his customers, has not.
His first sale, with Suttons Volvo, was in in July 1984, a Volvo B6 for Lyall Lennox in Kyogle, NSW – a delivery Ray says he will never forget.
Since then Ray is estimated to have sold well over 2,500 buses – contributing to the huge numbers of Volvo buses running on roads all over Australia today.
 |
|
Andrich handing over a Buslines bus to Peter Ferris
|
But even more important than the numbers, are the relationships Ray has fostered in his time in the industry. He has developed long-lasting business partnerships with small and large operators alike, and was still working closely with Buslines and Busways until yesterday. Many of these customers consider Ray to be more than just a business supplier – he’s become a trusted friend and confidant as well.
 |
|
Andrich behind the wheel of a Volvo bus
|
Ray’s current manager, National sales manager for Volvo Bus, Tony Lowrey, is reflective when asked to make comment about Ray’s departure. When Tony started working at Volvo 20-something years ago, Ray was already known as an industry leader.
“Undoubtedly, I have learnt a lot from Ray over the years – not just the intricacies of the industry, but how to best support customers in the way that Volvo has become known for,” Lowrey says. “We’re going to miss his charisma, his warmth and his humour. But we wish him all the best for this next chapter of his life”.
 |
|
Ray Andrich, Graham Davis, Paul O’Mahoney and Neil Lewis
|
Similar sentiments are being echoed from customers, suppliers, and past colleagues alike, as the industry, as a whole, today acknowledges Ray’s contribution to Volvo, to the industry, and to the public transport landscape in New South Wales. One thing is for sure – Ray’s contribution to the Australian bus and coach industry won’t be forgotten any time soon.
The team at Volvo Bus Australia were in touch with ABC to let us know they would like to thank Ray for his outstanding contribution, and wish him all the best for this next chapter of his life; for a happy and healthy retirement, enjoying time with his wife, kids and grandchildren.
Photography: Photos supplied by Volvo Bus Australia