Lifelong Friends Reunited at Green Hills

Errol Johnson and Dallas Godbolt have been friends for an incredible 57 years!  

Their journey together began when Dallas came from BHP in 1967 when the new coal loader at Newcastle opened and Errol started his apprenticeship at the state dockyard in Newcastle at just 15 years old. Dallas was working there as a Boiler’s mate at the age of 14 years and 10 months alongside another coworker, Errol Henderson, who lived in Tarro like Dallas. The three of them would travel to work together, with Errol Johnson living in Beresfield. 

In those days, the dockyard used wooden wagons pulled by tractors, with cranes lifting the wagons over ship holds where a pin would be pulled to drop the coal inside. Over time, the industry advanced the 54-ton steel wagons and eventually to the 100-ton aluminium wagons we see today.

Errol went on to become a supervisor, recalling that Dallas was always a diligent worker. Dallas also spent time working with the fitters before eventually becoming an operator. Their families grew close, with their wives and children forming strong bonds over the years.  

In 1990, the government privatised the dockyard. As a tradesperson, Errol had to reapply for his position, while Dallas, as an operator, stayed on. Errol later moved on to work at Thomas National transport and Dallas retired from Port Waratah in 2010.  

Recently, Dallas moved into Green Hills Residential Care Service and happened to read a newsletter welcoming new residents. To his surprise, he recognised Errol’s name and birthday. Excited, he went upstairs to the new Osprey household and found Errol. Needless to say the two old had a joyful reunion.

It had been six years since they’d last seen each other. 

Today, Errol and Dallas continue to see each other daily, often joining bus trips together. Their other friend, Errol Henderson, has also visited and the three reminisce about their contributions to the coal industry.  

Their enduring friendship continues to bring meaning and purpose to their lives.