Stockwells has been delivering exceptional freight forwarding services for over 50 years. With the third generation of Stockwell’s having recently stepped into leadership roles, we’re reflecting on how our family legacy has shaped what Stockwells looks like today. Dive into how a history of people-first service, trust and innovation empowers tomorrow’s growth.
Founding story
Stockwells was founded in the seventies, however the seed of inspiration was planted by Brian Stockwell’s grandmother many years before. She told him, “Remember son, we are on an island. Get something in shipping and you will never be out of a job.” Little did she know, she was setting in motion a legacy that would take roots around the world.
Flash forward to 1971 and Brian Stockwell was excelling as a customs broker. When the company he worked for acquired another business, Brian was introduced to his new boss George Bulgin. Brian observed the changes happening in the Australian freight forwarding industry. He realised what the market was missing – logistics experts that owned their own trucks. This motivated him to step out on his own to deliver a new standard of service.
There were two key conversations Brian had that were pivotal to our establishment. Both took place in the local pub! The first was with his mother, Nance Stockwell. She generously offered to help him secure a loan to get the business off the ground. The next conversation was with George. As George was Brian’s boss at the time, telling him about his idea was a risk. However, George decided to leave his role and join Brian on his venture. Together, they became the two founders of what was then called Bulgin & Stockwell.
The first decade was focused on port transport and custom brokerage. By 1980, we had established offices across Melbourne and Brisbane. We began to attract top industry talent and welcomed Bob Stockwell, Peter Joyce, Terry Stockwell and Wayne Rylands on board. Star sales people like Dougie Power ensured the word about Bulgin and Stockwell spread quickly.
True to our beginnings, we continued to pave the way for better service. We became the first Australian company to do an electronic customs clearance. Our reputation was built as experts that are trustworthy, knowledgeable and uncompromising on quality.
Today, we’ve expanded to a comprehensive range of logistics and freight forwarding services.
We offer:
- Freight forwarding
- Customs brokerage
- Port transport
- Project cargo management
- Warehousing and distribution
- Linehaul
- Supply chain consulting and logistics
A new generation of Stockwell’s takes the torch
As our services evolved into maritime transport, so did our family. The second generation and third of Stockwell’s are now leading us into the future. Dive into their roles, responsibilities and approaches:
Second generation leaders
David Stockwell, CEO
David Stockwell has been our esteemed CEO since 2007. Succeeding his uncle, he works across all aspects of the company to ensure our family-owned legacy shines through. David is based in our Sydney headquarters. He leverages over 40 years of freight forwarding experience to deliver unparalleled service.
Angela Gambell GAICD, Director
Angela Gambell joined as our Director of Sales and Marketing in 2008 and led the establishment of our Gold Coast office. As Brian’s daughter, her dedication to Stockwells. Angela has achieved the title of graduate from the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and was acknowledged in The CEO Magazine’s Top 50 Women of Influence in 2024.
Nicole McLean, Director of Human Resources
Nicole McLean embarked on her Stockwells journey in 1989. As our Director of Human Resources and Brian Stockwell’s daughter, she is dedicated to giving our team everything they need to succeed. Initiatives like a wellbeing calendar and community outreach days are just some of the ways in which she strengthens our ties with each other and our local communities.
Third generation leaders
Jack Stockwell, National Sales Executive
Our National Sales Executive, Jack Stockwell, joined us in 2019 following his career as a rugby league player. He’s Brian’s great nephew, making him the first of the third generation of Stockwells to pursue the freight forwarding industry. Jack quickly established himself as a skilled salesperson with a direct, honest and helpful approach. He travels to our offices across Australia to help businesses secure the competitive service they deserve.
Austyn Gambell, Logistics Coordinator
Austyn Gambell recently celebrated five years as a valued member of our team. He’s passionate about getting involved in community initiatives and staying ahead of industry trends. Austyn is Angela’s son, and began working alongside her at our Gold Coast office. In 2024 Austyn made the move to Western Australia to be a part of our new Perth branch.
A history of innovation
While our company has a longstanding industry presence, our approach is constantly evolving. Our first priority has always been our client’s success. Our latest Track and Trace software is an exemplar of how we continue to leverage technology to enhance our service.
The latest version of this software enables our clients to access real-time insights on their shipments with ease. We developed this solution with clarity, ease and efficiency in mind. Empowered with their customisable track and trace portal, clients enjoy more informed decision making around supply chain optimisation, risk management or unexpected delays.
Our family legacy began over 50 years ago with Brian Stockwell and George Bulgin. It’s one of people-first service, innovation and trust. This has paved the way for many firsts, such as being the first Australian freight forwarder to have their own fleet of trucks and complete an electronic customs clearance. Today, our legacy can be felt across every supply chain strategy, client relationship and delivery.
Reach out to our friendly team to discover the difference of over 50 years of experience.