Hundreds of jobs could be affected as Don Watson Transport shuts down after 77 years.

The national freight company, based in Derrimut in Victoria, is a third-generation family-owned company with 290 vehicles in its fleet. 

It made its last collection yesterday, and final deliveries will be made over the coming days.

“The Watson family has made the difficult decision to cease transport operations,” the family said in a statement.

“The Watson family has benefited from the Australian trucking and warehousing industry over many generations, and we’ve tried to offer back time and effort in kind.

“Thank you for the wonderful support you’ve offered Watsons over the years, and we look forward to seeing the industry continue to develop.”

The Watson’s Coldstores arm will remain in operation, but the family is seeking to sell the company.

“Coldstores will remain fully operational as it is introduced to the market for sale, with a focus on securing optimal value as a going concern,” the family said.