In 1981, Westrail sough expression of interest to handle small freight traffic.[1] Total West commenced operating on 1 July 1982 as a joint venture between Mayne Nickless and Westrail, each owning 50%.[2] It was formed to transport mail and less than wagon load traffic.[3][4][5]
In 1985, Mayne Nickless sold its stake to Gascoyne Trading Company.[6] Gascoyne's 50% stake was included in its sale to Wesfarmers in 1996, who purchased Westrail's stake later the same year.[7][8] Wesfarmers merged Total West and Gascoyne Trading Company under the Wesfarmers Transport brand.[9] It was included in the 2001 sale of Wesfarmers road transport interests to Toll Holdings.[10]
