WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - AUGUST 2022 EDITION (WESTERN AUSTRALIA)

THE TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY MAGAZINE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA

ISSN 2202-6193

100007516 August 2022 | price $6.95

TRANSPORT magazine

Page 10

THE IMPACT OF FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE WILL SPREAD FAR AND WIDE In WA, our Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development have been involved in many joint scenario exercises with their federal colleagues planning for this eventuality. Apart from what is being done to stop the disease entering Australia, the LRTAWA says for vulnerable industries such as livestock transport we need to know details about what will happen if we have to deal with the disease on our shores

IN THIS ISSUE: How to survive a recession New Owner Driver legislation CCTV at WA RTAA’s AdBlue Update WATM • August 2022

Our Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk is available 7 days a week.

Talk to us about: Permits

Accreditation

OSOM movements

Route Assessments

Traffic Escort bookings

Compliance

The Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk is open from: 7am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 3.30pm Saturday, Sunday and WA public holidays.

Main Roads Heavy Vehicle Services 525 Great Eastern Highway REDCLIFFE 6104

Tel: 138 486 Fax: 9475 8455 Email: hvs@mainroads.wa.gov.au www.mainroads.wa.gov.au 3 WATM • October 2021

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TWU successes over the last 12 months across WA

By Tim Dawson | Branch Secretary

W

e’re more than half way through 2022, so it is important to take time to reflect on the successes of last year and set our sights to what is next. The TWU is constantly fighting to improve the industry for transport workers and these are just some of the ways we’ve won in the last 12 months.

The TWU in WA ran a successful truck bays and amenities campaign for construction and improvement of the facilities where long haul truckies stop and rest. Fatigue breaks are essential, but they’re no good if you have nowhere stop. The TWU was able to fight for and win a $14 million allocation in the 21/22 budget for improvements to parking bays and road train assembly areas as well as a 2022/23 budget allocation of $36 million funding for improved truck bays and amenities for WA truck drivers. Our work is not done here though, far from. We’re holding the Government to account for this budget allocation and keeping an eye on the assembly areas they’ve promised to fix. Truck drivers across Australia rely on these facilities and we need to make sure they’re fit for purpose for our truckies.

The TWU is also fighting for improved facilities at Fremantle Port. Our truckies and transport workers deserve better and we can only get better if we fight for it, so if this issue matters to you, get in touch with us.

In 2021 the TWU was successful in the introduction of a peer-topeer Mental Health program that aims to improve the mental health of drivers on our roads. The TWU secured a grant from the State Government to launch and fund the Steering Healthy Minds initiative.

This program is necessary when transport workers are at the highest risk of developing a debilitating mental illness. The isolation of transport work, the diet and cumulative risk factors of the job, including sometimes seeing deaths on our roads puts a mental strain on the people behind the wheel. We are working hard to make Steering Health Minds a success and want to hear from you if you would like to get involved and change our industry’s mental health for the better.

The amendments to the Owner Driver Act have recently been introduced in Parliament where the 2022 bill aims to: • increase ROE for representatives of owner operators to investigate unconscionable conduct in a contract written or verbal • Minimum enforceable, safe sustainable rates and enforceable minimum notice periods for termination of Owner Driver contracts • Strengthens the current tribunals powers • State Gov has committed to review the bill so that all commercial vehicles under 4.5t are covered (including couriers and gig economy riders etc) These changes will change the way disputes are handled by the Road

The TWU is a fighting union, we are a campaigning union... and we get s**t done Freight Industry Tribunal and give the tribunal more teeth to investigate situations that are unfair. Owner Drivers don’t have a lot of recourse when their hirer gives them an unfair contract. This legislation will ensure that they do have the power to stand up, and it will benefit the rest of our industry when they do.

TWU members walked off the job at some of the major transport companies in 2021, including Toll, FedEx and StarTrack. The fight was to improve these workers’ job security and protect their jobs from being shafted to the lowest bidder. The agreements these workers fought for now include 15% Superannuation, the highest in the country and won CPI increases to their wages. Transport Workers at these companies will have received a 5% increase to their wage, an increase that will help the hip pocket at a time where the cost of everything is going up.

Not to mention fighting for our members in aviation and the gig economy on a national scale. The TWU took Qantas to the Federal court and won, with the Court ruling that Qantas outsourcing baggage handlers was illegal.

The TWU is a fighting union, we are a campaigning union. And we get s**t done.

If you want to be a part of getting s**t done, join the TWU today!

WORK IN TRANSPORT?

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PROTECT YOURSELF! JOIN YOUR UNION

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Transport Workers Union - for the people who carry Australia 🌐🌐🌐 www.twuwa.org.au

🗨🗨🗨 www.facebook.com/twuwa

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📞📞📞 1800 657 477 ✉ info@twuwa.org.au

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Focus

HOW TRANSPORT OPERATORS CAN SURVIVE A RECESSION

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leading business expert is tipping Australia will fall into recession within 18 months and is warning the transport industry in particular to brace for more pain as interest rates continue to rise and operators are hit hard by increased fuel prices, a tight labour market, and ongoing congestion in the supply chain.

Business strategist Sandra Morrell says pretending a recession is not going to happen could spell disaster for transport operators who have managed to survive more than two years of pandemic-related challenges.

“The example of Covid-19 showed us all that things can change instantly, but the pandemic also demonstrated that there is ongoing demand for trucks to stay on the road so goods can be moved,” said Ms Morrell.

“The current economic climate means online shopping is again increasingly attractive for consumers looking for discounts, putting renewed pressure on the transportation of goods. It’s important not to panic.”

Ms Morrell has owned trucks and has managed fleets of vehicles. Having her own HR licence, she has experienced firsthand many of the challenges facing the transport industry. She says operators should be

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WATM • August 2022

planning and preparing over the next few months and has some tips to help: • Reduce costs now: Don’t wait until revenue falls, make cuts now, reduce bad debt and renegotiate loan term, servicing contracts and insurance premiums. Look at your fleet and ensures it matches demand and sell or trade unused or poor performing vehicles. Stock up on spare parts now so you don’t have to wait if there’s delays with availability or shipping.

• Upskill your team: An employee is a multi-year investment so set aside time for them to train in new areas of your company so if you are forced to cut costs you can look at repurposing your team. Investing in training could also see them move to an area where you’re experiencing a worker shortage. Talk to your employees and see whether they can take on extra shifts or have a hybrid role - they might have skills that they aren’t using that could be helpful.

• You can’t manage what you don’t measure: Establish a weekly habit of looking at key business metrics is essential – such as current

bookings, future bookings, expenses, cash on hand.

• Prepare to pivot: Look at ways you can keep your trucks on the road, can you expand your services to other areas. Is it possible for other companies to hire the trucks or can you contract a truck/driver for a short-term contract. Any way you can diversify will be helpful in the long term.

• Maintain your fleet: If you upgrade your vehicles every 3 years or so, now is the time to review that and find ways to maintain your current fleet. Look for competitive quotes and negotiate servicing contracts so you’re not relying on getting new vehicles. Install GPS tracking devices and review the trips/stops your employees are making – are they the most efficient?

• Look after your own mental health and your team members: Build team morale, encourage social activities, physical movement and offer counselling services if needed to your employees. Research shows a happy employee has fewer sick days and is less inclined to quit.

“There’s opportunity in every market

and it’s about looking to at what is the upside opportunity in the market that may be ahead,” said Ms Morrell.

Ms Morrell was a partner in a global resort and business education company Genius Group which employed 500 people and ran events in 7 countries when Covid-19 lockdowns commenced in early 2020.

“With restrictions imminent but for no idea how long, I took a good hard look at our cost structure and worked out what was sustainable and what was going to cost too much to deliver. Working through our P&L line by line, I cut 50% of all costs within a few days.”

“I also communicated to the team that if we were to get through this sudden storm, we all had to be willing to do whatever it took. Some took annual leave, others worked reduced hours, everyone in the team took a pay cut and some team members were repurposed – we had receptionists from resorts answering phones in customer service for our programs.”

“We also pivoted what was predominately an offline events business education company to an online EdTech and education company."

“As a business owner your primary concern will be how many of your customers will continue to use your services in an economic downturn and be prepared for services potentially increasing in different areas and how you can quickly adapt to maximise any opportunities.”

“You want to ensure you’re getting 80% of your revenue from 80% of your clients – not 80% of revenue coming from 20% of clients because this gives your business a better chance of remaining sustainable when everyone makes cuts.”

“This might mean changing some key elements, but you want to do everything you can to make sure profitability remains consistent in a recession.”

Ms Morrell says there are also things you can do as an employee to protect yourself as best as possible during a downturn.

“In the months leading up to a recession, risk-taking becomes almost non-existent and business owners go into survival mode, ruthlessly curtailing expenses and drastically reducing overheads and that could mean layoffs.”

“While this may seem counterintuitive given many in the transport sector are struggling to fill roles at the moment, there is pain ahead and the knee jerk reaction of many employers to quickly reduce a

business bleeding cash is to cut staff.”

“It’s important to think outside the square and consider all your options when you’re looking for stability. What other skills do you have that offers value to your employer?”

Ms Morrell suggested workers do the following in the next few months: • Proactively discuss the market with your employer: Offer up pivot ideas and cost cutting solutions - be indispensable.

• Be flexible and open to being repurposed: Find ways in which you can use your skills and experience to take on a different role within the company.

• Update your CV/LinkedIn: If you are retrenched, offer to contract your skills back to your employer and other business owners.

• Start saving a cash reserve now: Start by looking at your spending habits and all your outgoings including subscriptions - don’t live outside your means. Sell unused items around your house and pay off your credit cards/bad debt. Have enough cash to cover 6 months of living expenses.

• Look after your own physical and mental health: Exercise, talk and spend time with friends and family. Staying in good physical and

Recessions make everything uncertain but whether you are running a business or are an employee, it’s in your best interest to not panic, make a plan and look after yourself

mental health can help you cope better during troubled times.

“It’s important to take note of where every dollar is being spent, knowledge is peace of mind,” said Ms Morrell.

“Now is the time to formulate a plan, it doesn’t have to be complicated or hard, you can start by simply making up a simple budget, refinance expensive debt and don’t spend more than you earn.”

“Recessions make everything uncertain but whether you are running a business or are an employee, it’s in your best interest to not panic, make a plan and look after yourself.”

Business strategist Sandra Morrell

WATM • August 2022

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WA

TRANSPORT

magazine

VOLUME 28 | NUMBER 7

FROM THE PUBLISHER Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd Telephone 0430 153 273 www.angrychicken.com.au ABN: 35 486 530 095

PUBLISHER / COMMISSIONING EDITOR Karen-Maree’ Kaye T: 0430 153 273 Email: karen@angrychicken.com.au WRITERS Karen-Maree' Kaye, Russell McKinnon CONTRIBUTORS Jan Cooper, Cam Dumesny, Carol Messenger, Ray Pratt ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Angry Chicken Head Office T: 0430 153 273 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au

J

ust when you think nothing else can go wrong and a new wave of COVID-19 gives business a lot to worry about with staff then the threat of Foot and Mouth on our doorstep. At the time of going to press with this edition, there was still uncertainty if the measures put in place by Governments were enough. David Fyfe, President of the LRTAWA talks about this subject on page 10.

Also in this edition is some handy reading, just in case on how transport operators can survive a recession plus, the new Owner Drivers legislation that has been introduced to WA Parliament, new CCTV camera installations at WA

DESIGN / PREPRESS Cally Browning | Bare Creative ACCOUNTS T: 0430 153 273 E: accounts@angrychicken.com.au PRINTER Daniels Printing Craftsmen

RTAA’s, an AdBlue update and a review from Western Roads Federation on the HD Driver Training Program.

Thank you for the feedback on the Mack Muster spread from last edition.

Kevin Toovey from the HCVC did such a wonderful job with the photos and the trucks all looked outstanding. Well done everyone concerned.

Welcome to the many new subscribers of the digital edition and for your feedback and kindness as well. I try hard to ensure the content is relative and helpful to you all.

Best,

Karen

CONTENTS 2............................................... How transport operators can survive a recession 6............................................... Owner-driver legislation introduced to Parliament

SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions available directly from the Publisher.

T: 0430 153 273 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au Australia: 1 year $76.45 (inc GST) 2 years $152.90 (inc GST)

7................................................ CCTV camera installation at WA RTAA’s

Overseas subscribers: Airmail postage will be added to subscription rate.

12............................................ Main Roads – Reducing heavy vehicle rollovers

Editorial Submissions: The Publisher welcomes editorial submissions. Once received they will become the property of the Publisher who reserves the right to edit the or adjust the content to fit with the format of our publication.

West Australian Transport Magazine (WATM) is published by Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd ABN: 35 486 530 095 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, adapted or transmitted in any form by any process (graphic, electronic, mechanical or storage and retrieval system) or sold, resold or otherwise exploited for any purpose without consent of the Publisher.

The publisher, contributors, editors and consultants disclaim any and all liability and responsibility to any person or party, be they a purchaser, reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication in regards to consequences and outcomes of anything done or omitted, or being in reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of this publication. No person, organization or party should rely on or on any way act upon any part of the contents of this magazine without first obtaining the advice of a fully qualified person. The Publisher shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by contributor, consultant, editor or related party for content within WATM. The opinions and content within WATM does not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher, editor or their agents. No responsibility is accepted for damage or loss of material supplied to the publisher.

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WATM • August 2022

10............................................ LRTAWA – The impact of Foot and Mouth disease will spread far and wide 11............................................... On Road Enforcement of Automated Vehicles - Information Session 13............................................ AdBlue Update 14............................................ Western Roads Federation – HD Driver Training Review 15............................................ Driver Award wages to increase 4.6% 16............................................ DHL Supply Chain Australia agrees to acquire the Glen Cameron Group 17............................................. A look at the future of electric vehicles in Australia 18............................................ Binduli North gold project in Kalgoorlie opens 19............................................ Transport company leverages new Australian sanitisation solution 20.......................................... New Chair of the Road Safety Council 21............................................ Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation to improve safety

Every Month 8............................................... Fair Go for Owner Drivers 22.......................................... HCVC 24.......................................... WA Transport History

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News

When complete, the bridge will have six lanes of traffic with four additional lanes for commuters to get to and from Great Eastern Highway

Redcliffe Bridge lands a new milestone

T

he Redcliffe Bridge has reached a new milestone, landing on the northern side of the Swan River.

This project is being constructed as part of the jointly funded Tonkin Gap Project.

A total of 17 bridge segments, made from 3,000 cubic metres of concrete, were used to construct the new 310-metre-long structure.

The concrete segments were cast on-site and connected to the previous section

before being launched using an incremental process that pushes the segments forward on sliding bearings using hydraulics.

Each segment moved up to 18 metres every two to three weeks, taking 10 months to complete.

When complete, the bridge will have six lanes of traffic with four additional lanes for commuters to get to and from Great Eastern Highway.

The bridge is anticipated to open to

traffic in the first quarter of 2023.

Other works on the project that are progressing well include a new loop ramp at Great Eastern Highway for commuters coming onto Tonkin Highway from the east to travel north.

Once complete this will provide free flowing access to Tonkin Highway.

The project recently installed the final bridge beams at Guildford Road and Railway Parade, with another 18 bridge beams to be installed at Broun Avenue later this year.

All 92 bridge beams for the project are manufactured by local company Georgiou Group at its precast yard in Hazelmere.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "When complete the Tonkin Gap Project will be a game changer for the eastern suburbs, slashing travel times and improving congestion.

"This area is a well-known pinch point that carries 120,000 vehicles daily - when the project is completed we anticipate this will slash travel times for afternoon drivers by up to 11 minutes.

Owner-driver legislation introduced to Parliament

T

ransport Minister Rita Saffioti has introduced the Owner-Drivers (Contracts and Disputes) Amendment Bill 2022 to Parliament on June 22nd.

The Act establishes a framework for regulating dealings between owner-drivers and their hirers and the new Bill will provide additional protections for these small businesses and individual contractors.

The following changes are proposed under the new legislation: • minimum periods for termination: contracts greater than three months will have a 90-day minimum notice period and contracts less than three months will have a 7-day minimum notice period; • unfair or unjust contract provisions clarification; • misleading and deceptive conduct specifically prohibited;

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WATM • August 2022

• a workplace right of entry: for an ownerdriver's authorised representative for the purpose of investigating suspected breaches of the Act; • discrimination will be a form of unconscionable conduct under the Act; • non-compliance with guideline rates: the Road Freight Transport Industry Council publishes "guideline rates" to inform industry participants when they bargain concerning rates of pay. Noncompliance with guideline rates will be a factor relevant when the Road Freight Transport Industry Tribunal determines whether there has been unconscionable dealing; and • changes to the Tribunal's powers and jurisdiction to ensure they are better equipped to deliver just and efficient outcomes in dispute resolution.

These amendments are the result of

several years of work including a review from 2018 which included extensive consultation undertaken with industry through the Road Freight Transport Industry Council with members representing the Transport Workers Union, Western Roads Federation and industry.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, “Our freight supply chains and transport industries are incredibly important to our economy, as we have seen recently with the disruption to the East-West rail link.

“Owner-drivers play a vital role in our road freight transport supply chain and we want to ensure they and other small businesses are protected so they can continue this vital work.

“I would like to thank the Members of the Road Freight Transport Industry Council for their work on these important reforms.”

Main Roads News

CCTV CAMERA INSTALLATION AT FORRESTFIELD ROAD TRAIN ASSEMBLY AREA (RTAA) AND ON GREENMOUNT HILL

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ew CCTV cameras are being installed at the Forrestfield RTAA on Abernethy Road, and the stopping bay on Great Eastern Highway at Greenmount Hill.

The Forrestfield RTAA is well used by the road transport industry and availability is often limited due to vehicles, trailers and equipment being parked for excessive periods of time.

Following a number of complaints from

industry, it is hoped that the cameras will help deter transport operators who park their vehicles and equipment contrary to the RTAA’s terms of use, and improve the availability of parking spaces within the RTAA. The cameras should also provide greater assurance for transport operators around the security of vehicles within the RTAA. Similarly, CCTV cameras are being installed in the stopping bay on Greenmount Hill to monitor the compliance of vehicles with their access conditions. As per the existing signage, all laden Permit and Notice vehicles are required to stop in the mandatory stopping bay. Transport operators are reminded not to use this as a parking bay as there is limited space available and it will affect other operators’ ability to comply with the requirement to stop.

Installation of CCTV cameras at both sites is due to be completed in the second half of 2022.

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WATM • August 2022

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Over to you A FAIR GO FOR OWNER DRIVERS by Ray Pratt

A DANGEROUS COCKTAIL OF TRUCK DRIVERS

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have always said that truck driving is a very demanding and dangerous occupation.

However, the image of truck drivers does not seem good in the eyes of the general public - mainly due to a very ‘one sided’ reporting by the media who are trying to sensationalise the negative side of the industry.

Contrary to what the public think, truck driving is an extremely skilled job with most drivers having a good work ethic.

They just get on with the job.

We take for granted the value of our hard working truck drivers. Everything we use in our daily lives has probably been delivered by a truck driver.

Hardly ever do we complain as we go about our work. I’ve been banging on for years now writing about how truck drivers get a rough deal with poor work conditions, poor pay and having to work a huge amount of hours every week just to try and keep their finances in the black and food on the table.

The industry is trying hard to recruit more drivers into truck seats but nobody is willing to look at the issues that created the driver shortage in the first place.

Driving schools are working overtime issuing driver’s licenses at an alarming rate but every day the cry goes out for more drivers. Is there a plan to help truck drivers?

There never is. We are always on our own as we battle with poor work conditions,

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long working hours and poor rates of pay.

In my mind, the transport industry has never been in such a desperate position as it is in now. The Governments answer to the driver shortage is to recruit more drivers and many drivers are coming from overseas. As good as this sounds the industry is being forced to accept drivers who have very little knowledge, training and ability to operate trucks in Australia.

It has created a dangerous cocktail of truck drivers that are being let loose on our roads which has seen a huge lowering of the standards across the industry.

We have seen our industry trying to improve safety much the same as the mining industry has but there is nothing safe with the new generation of truck drivers that are filling the seats of vacant trucks as companies try to keep the wheels turning.

It has created a dangerous cocktail of truck drivers that are being let loose on our roads which has seen a huge lowering of the standards across the industry

The older experienced drivers are leaving the industry in droves as they are unwilling to share the road with these new breed of drivers. These older drivers are tired of working long hours with demanding work schedules and are just burnt out.

Never before in the history of transport have I seen the industry in such a mess.

It is demoralising to watch the transport industry spiral downward as conditions deteriorate. There are a huge amount of challenges to fix the problems within our industry. We cannot bury our heads in the sand and expect everything to get better.

We need to improve the working conditions for our current experienced drivers and retain them in the industry and by doing this we will solve the driver shortage. We need them to mentor and train the next generation of drivers. Just getting a truck license does not make you a truck driver. Truck driving is a skilled job that requires special training and should be treated as such. If the industry can lift its image it will encourage the right person to make a career out of transport.

It is a great industry to be in. I look back on my time in the transport industry with many fond memories. Let’s have a go at fixing the industry and making it great again.

Keep it safe, Ray Pratt

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Over to you LRTAWA by David Fyfe, President, Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia (Inc)

THE IMPACT OF FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE WILL SPREAD FAR AND WIDE

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onfirmation that foot and mouth disease (FMD) is spreading through Indonesia and has reached Australia’s holiday playground in Bali has sent shivers down the spines of those of us whose livelihoods depend on agricultural exports and a healthy livestock industry.

The devastation that will be wreaked by this highly contagious disease goes beyond farmers, livestock transporters, stock agents

and vets. Every household will be affected as well as many industries from cities to regions.

Australia's meat export industry would be shut for at least one year, which according to the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment would instantly cost $25 billion in export value. Studies have estimated $80 billion in economic losses over 10 years if a medium-to-large-scale FMD outbreak was to occur in Australia.

During the FMD outbreak in the UK in 2001, more than six million sheep, cattle and pigs were slaughtered. Exclusion zones were established around infected areas making travel impossible and tourism plummeted. International trade in UK livestock meat and dairy products was suspended, a general election was delayed for the first time since World War II and major events in the countryside were

New version of the Fair Work Information Statement released News

By Graham Lilleyman Director, Employment Services & Solutions Australia

T

he Fair Work Ombudsman has released and updated version of the Fair Work Information Statement as a result of the Annual Wage Decision adjustment. This document must be given to each new employee when they commence employment.

Also, each new casual employee must be given the current version of the Casual

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WATM • August 2022

Employee Information Statement.

It is a statutory obligation to provide these documents to new employees and there are potential significant financial penalties which can be imposed on a business if they do not comply with this obligation.

To download the documents go to: https://mcusercontent.com/

d2875633c17d5bd8b959912e7/files/ a5bbc240-24dd-c9bb-32e1-f6acde3e405c/ Fair_Work_Information_Statement_ July_2022.pdf and https://mcusercontent. com/d2875633c17d5bd8b959912e7/ files/15967bbe-e0f9-edcd-a25680543a843f78/Casual_Employment_ Information_Statement_October_ 2021.pdf

cancelled. It took nine months to bring foot-and-mouth under control.

It was impossible to trace exactly how it arrived in the UK. It was theorised that it probably came from somewhere in Asia and travelled to the UK via South Africa in either catering waste or illegally imported meat and found its way on to a piggery in Essex.

The disease epidemic was a human tragedy as well as an animal one. Distress was experienced across diverse groups well beyond the farming community. Tragically there were those who took their own lives and others were left with ongoing mental health effects as a result of the crisis. In one case one man had not used his lorry for seven weeks because he was afraid of carrying the disease to areas unaffected by the disease. He thought his business was finished. A friend told a coronial hearing "his mood changed with the outbreak of foot and mouth. I used to say 'We are not finished, Glyn' but no one could persuade him any other way."

Out of the devastation experienced in the UK came lessons for the rest of the world in handling such a crisis. UK farmers are quick to point to a lack of information from the authorities as a major cause of distress.

Closer to home in WA our Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development have been involved in many joint scenario exercises with their federal colleagues planning for this eventuality.

This is expected to reassure vulnerable industries that we are well placed to both stop FMD from entering Australia and that we can deal with it quickly and efficiently if it does. The extent to which this is reassuring to industry is limited. As the UK experience tells us, communication is the key to industry engagement and confidence and at this stage communication from

Owners of livestock will be compensated for livestock that are destroyed during an FMD outbreak, but transporters, like other allied industries will receive nothing

the government has fallen well short of confidence boosting.

Most of the information about what is being done at our borders has come from the media and has been general. The federal Minister for Agriculture has announced that biosecurity officers are now boarding planes and reinforcing biosecurity messages and mail profiling and inspections has been stepped up. There are strong penalties for breaching biosecurity laws by bringing meat products into Australia including 10 years in prison. Despite this, illegal products are intercepted daily. For example, in an eight month period 27 tonnes of pork products were intercepted across all airports and at international mail centres, reflecting 32,012 traveller carried items and 2,911 mail articles.

Apart from what is being done to stop the disease entering Australia, we need to know details about what will happen if we have to deal with the disease on our shores. For vulnerable industries such as rural transport it is vital that we know that plans are in place to enable for example prime movers to be disinfected and moved during a prolonged standstill so they can be deployed on other work that is not an FMD risk. What disinfectant is suitable and where will

livestock already in transit be taken are just some of the things we need to know.

Owners of livestock will be compensated for livestock that are destroyed during an FMD outbreak, but transporters, like other allied industries will receive nothing. With many companies currently experiencing high costs in labour, fuel and parts any interruption to revenue will create significant hardship for some businesses and will be the straw that breaks the camel’s back in others.

Hopefully by the time this article is published the immediate danger in Indonesia will be under control, but in the meantime I implore everyone, whether they have contact with farms on not, to take extra precautions when returning from overseas holidays, particularly Indonesia. Think about leaving your clothes behind or at the very least have them laundered prior to leaving.

Scrub your shoes before leaving and bin the double pluggers. It’s a small price to pay for protecting animals, livelihoods, our trading reputation and the economy.

If you have been affected by this article, help can be found at Lifeline on 13 11 14, and beyondblue on 1300 22 4636.

Information session - on-road enforcement of automated vehicles

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he National Transport Commission is developing policy for the on-road enforcement of automated vehicles.

They have published a discussion paper that looks at the current powers of law enforcement officers in the context of automated vehicles. The paper examines if enforcement officers

have sufficient powers to interact with and respond to the road safety risks of automated vehicles.

The paper also covers practical aspects of interacting with automated vehicles and suggests options to address any gaps.

To view the paper visit https://www. ntc.gov.au/transport-reform/ntc-projects/

road-enforcement-automated-vehicles In support of the NTC’s public consultation, they will host an online information session to overview the paper and hear your views. The session will be held from 10.00am – 11.00am on 11 August 2022. https://comms.ntc.gov.au/link/id/ zzzz62ccd5dbadb0a831Pzzzz60ebfdb c8ca31590/page.html WATM • August 2022

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Focus

REDUCING HEAVY VEHICLE ROLLOVERS

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ach year, across Western Australia, Main Roads sees a significant number of heavy vehicle rollovers. More concerning, however, is that with a number of inexperienced drivers recently entering the industry, rollovers are occurring more often.

Along with causing damage to goods, vehicles and road infrastructure, rollovers can result in loss of life. To help reduce this risk, it is important that drivers understand what causes them.

Road condition Rollovers often occur on curves or at intersections, however, they can also occur if the rear trailer leaves the sealed road, particularly if there is a soft road shoulder or a drop off between the seal and the shoulder. This often happens when the driver is fatigued or distracted, so it’s important that you drive to the road conditions. Pay attention, slow down if the road is narrow and there are no sealed shoulders and anticipate curves to ensure they are entered at an appropriate speed.

Do not accelerate through a curve and be careful not to be too abrupt with the steering.

Speed Speed has a dramatic effect on vehicle stability and controllability. By increasing 12

WATM • August 2022

your speed from 30 km/h to 60 km/h you can increase the overturning forces by more than four times, and this is amplified through each trailer in a multi-trailer combination.

this from happening, as the systems will sense the vehicle is at risk of rolling and automatically control the braking system to stabilise the vehicle.

Fatigue and Distraction Centre of Gravity (CoG) The higher the Centre of Gravity height of a load, the higher the rollover risk. Generally, if the CoG height of the load is more than 2.3 metres from the ground, the rollover risk is high. However, this is also then dependent on the mass of the load as the rollover risk increases as the mass increases (subsequently increasing the CoG height).

Moving or live loads, such as a bulk liquid in a tanker, livestock, concrete in agitators and poorly restrained loads, can also further increase the risk of a rollover.

Vehicle Maintenance Poorly maintained braking systems, suspension systems and underinflated or worn tyres can have a detrimental effect on vehicle performance.

With most rollovers involving multitrailer vehicle combinations, it is evident that the rear trailer may commence rolling over before the driver even realises and has an opportunity to apply the brakes.

Electronic Braking Systems (EBS) with a Rollover Stability System (RSS) can prevent

Driver fatigue and distraction monitoring systems can significantly reduce the risk of rollovers and other accidents. A number of systems are available, however, a system that is physically monitored so the driver can be contacted when fatigue or distraction events are detected, and assisted until they have safely stopped the vehicle, is the most effective.

It is important that transport operators provide their drivers with adequate training and develop appropriate processes to minimise rollover risk. Transport operators are encouraged to use the SRT calculator available on the Permits and Orders page at the Heavy Vehicles tab at www.mainroads. wa.gov.au to assess the rollover risk of each vehicle configuration and load.

The SRT calculator enables operators to either adjust the load accordingly or ensure there are suitable controls in place to mitigate any risks.

For further information please visit the Heavy Vehicles page at mainroads.wa.gov.au or call the Heavy Vehicle Help Desk on 138 486

News

New alignment for southern section of DongaraGeraldtonNorthampton Route

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new corridor for the southern section of the future DongaraGeraldton-Northampton (DGN) Route has been chosen following extensive community and landowner feedback.

Initial planning identified a preferred route corridor between Dongara and Geraldton that largely followed the Arthur Road alignment near the Walkaway townsite.

The new proposal will see the route deviate eastwards around the main Walkaway townsite before reconnecting with the previous alignment at Moonyoonooka, reducing impacts on homes, and addressing access and severance concerns raised by the Walkaway community.

As a result of the latest planning

Planning around Moonyoonooka has also highlighted the potential for a traveller centre or road train assembly area investigations, the number of dwellings south of Moonyoonooka within the investigation corridor has reduced significantly from ten to four.

Main Roads will continue to work with landowners to discuss ways to mitigate any potential impacts.

Given the positive community feedback on the proposed corridor north of Moonyoonooka and south of Mount Horner Road West, no changes are planned in these areas.

Planning around Moonyoonooka has also highlighted the potential for a traveller centre or road train assembly area, presenting an opportunity to recognise local history and Moonyoonooka's role as a community hub.

Main Roads will continue discussions

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AdBlue Update

ndustry bodies across Australia have been investigating and lobbying for the short and long term availability of Adblue.

The ALRTA participated in an ATA webinar on AdBlue supply security in July and AdBlue supplier DGL AUSblue briefed ATA councillors about the outlook for Australia’s AdBlue supplies.

DGL AUSblue supplies around 30 per cent of Australia’s AdBlue.

DGL AUSblue’s general manager, Matthew Berry said, that in his view, there’s no reason to fear an AdBlue shortage in the lead up to Christmas.

He said there is an oversupply of AdBlue leading into December because AUSBlue has been importing significant volumes and Incitec Pivot is producing millions of litres a week.

In contrast to the crisis experienced in late 2021, he said Australia now has several options for sourcing technical grade urea, with significant imports forecast to be landed, providing AdBlue manufacturers with capacity to increase stock inventories. The Australian Department of Industry is continuing to coordinate meetings of an Industry Supplier Working Group to monitor supply data and facilitate rapid decisions.

It is thought that any future threats can now be identified 4-6 months in advance.

At the height of the crisis, and after vigorous industry lobbying, the Australian Government provided almost $30m to Incitec Pivot Limited (IPL) to ramp up AdBlue production at its Gibson Island plant. While production has since increased by more than 800%, helping to ease the crisis, IPL has announced that the

with the current owner of the Moonyoonooka Store.

This planning work is being undertaken as part of the DGN Alignment Selection Study, which aims to identify a 500 metre route corridor to accommodate a 100 metre-wide road reservation, to be defined as part of a future planning phase.

Once a final preferred corridor has been finalised and approved by the State Government, Main Roads will include the route in strategic statutory planning documentation to provide landowners

facility will be closed at the end of 2022.

Industry is again lobbying government to support a longer-term solution that would ideally involve Australian-based production of significant quantities of technical grade urea.

In a previous update, the new Minister for Industry and Science, Ed Husic told the ATA that the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources is continuing to engage actively with Australian Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)/Technical Grade Urea (TGU) importers, producers and the fuel retailers and wholesalers on the status of the DEF market and the level of government involvement necessary for optimal market function.

Our current understanding is the Australian DEF market is now well supplied, inventories have recovered to pre-supply crisis levels, and any stock outs should be localised and temporary.

The Department understands from ABS data that source-country supply chain diversification has improved compared to this time last year.

The Department is continuing to monitor the market situation and work actively with the sector to enhance market transparency arrangements to support more informed and better decision making by industry and government.

greater certainty.

Construction of this future route is subject to funding, although the section north of Geraldton is considered a priority.

Construction of the southern section between Dongara and Geraldton is not expected until at least 2035.

Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton said, "The Dongara-Geraldton-Northampton Route has been talked about for many years and I'm pleased the McGowan Government is getting on with the job of planning for this important piece of future infrastructure.

WATM • August 2022

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Over to you WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

HV Driver Training Review

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he Western Australian Government has invested over $6m in a program to train 1000 new drivers into the industry.

The program has now been going for over a year.

The HVDOSS has been considered extraordinarily successful to date through strong enrollment numbers, above average completion percentages and delivery targeted employment outcomes in the, as per Table 1 (below).

The course was initially designed to provide job seekers with a subsidised training opportunity equipping them to be job ready with a Heavy Rigid license.

Enrollment numbers for the first 8-9 months of the program were strong.

The six week course structure was optimised to provide a strong grounding and initial network creation for those new to the industry.

Job Seeker funding enabled students to sustain themselves financially during the six week course.

However, as WA’s economy continued its strong growth there has been a commensurate decline in the number of available un-employed or under employed people interested in taking the course.

Demand however for drivers has not declined and the industry continues to suffer from a skilled labour shortage.

Western Roads Federation involvement In response, Western Roads Federation (WRF) identified there were still segments of un employed or under employed within WA that had the potential to address industry skills shortage needs.

These segments and actions taken include: • Migrant and Refugee: o WRF reached out to a variety of migrant support services in collaboration with the DESE and Red Cross and Multicultural Services Centre WA. o This had a positive effect on boosting enrollment numbers with significant interest shown by both migrants and refugees. o However, the duration of the course and its delivery hours were a major road block for both migrants and refugees who needed to be able to continue to financially support themselves and their families.

• Women: o Industry participation by women remains below 10% o WRF reached out to members prepared to take a proactive approach to recruitment and potential job restricting to achieve family friendly hours. o A joint open day was conducted in conjunction with a member, DESE promoting family friendly jobs and the training course.

TABLE 1

Enrolments

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Completion

Licensed

Employed

Enrolments total

208

182

147

110

Currently in Course or collating data

30

88%

81%

74%

WATM • August 2022

News o Similar issues to the migrants and refugees where it was found, in that the hours and duration of the course are a barrier.

• Defence Veterans: WRF has reached out to the Defence Veteran community, where it has been identified that over 400 ADF personnel exit the services to WA every year.

• Work is also progressing with other groups as well.

Course Design WRF has determined that to retain the integrity of the program in delivering safe well-trained drivers the various pathways of candidates need to be identified and program delivery option tailored to suit both candidate groups and industry stakeholders.

An option is emerging with the Kalgoorlie TAFE, where core units are delivered face to face with the remaining units completed online over the next 12 months. The benefit of this model is that candidates receive the critical core training elements plus licence so can enter the work force earlier.

Going Forward The industry is in dire need for access to well-trained heavy vehicle drivers. The program has been highly successful in attracting participants, holding their attention throughout training and gaining good employment outcomes through the WRF industry engagement initiatives.

To continue this success and broaden the involvement with wider industry sectors it is proposed that the Skill Set is reviewed to accommodate the changing needs of the various candidate and industry groups to ensure and efficient and effect deployment of the funding and continue to deliver value for money outcomes.

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MILLENNIALS LEAD REGIONAL MIGRATION

ustralia is in the grip of a labour shortage that is particularly dire in regional areas. We need young families to rejuvenate regional towns and cities – skilled and low-skilled workers, kids in schools, participants in sporting teams, volunteers and attendees at community events.

There may be a ray of sunshine.

New data released by the Regional Australia Institute indicates that migration from capital cities (mostly Sydney and Melbourne) to regional Australia increased by 16.6% over the past 12 months. Most promisingly, millennials in the 24-40 years age group are leading the charge, attracted by cheaper housing and a booming regional jobs market.

WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION IS THE UNITED VOICE OF WA TRANSPORT COMPANIES Western Roads Federation has been formed to give a strong unified voice for companies who use WA roads for commercial benefit.

Western Roads Federation is a membership driven organisation. If you believe in the industry and what you do, then make sure your company is a member, and get involved.

For a membership application form Email cam.dumesny@westernroads.com.au ◆ Phone 08 9365 7799 or 0481 064 371 180 Hay St, East Perth WA 6004

WATM • August 2022

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News Left: Glen Cameron

DHL Supply Chain Australia agrees to acquire the Glen Cameron group

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HL Supply Chain, part of the Deutsche Post Group (DPDHL), is acquiring 100% of the Glen Cameron Group, a national logistics company specialising in road freight and contract logistics. The Glen Cameron Group operates a fleet of 1,000 trucks and trailers, and has more than 820 employees around Australia.

The strategic combination of the Glen Cameron Group with DHL Supply Chain will strengthen DHL’s position in the evolving Australian road freight market and create one of the largest logistics companies in the country with combined revenue of over AU$1 billion.

“This is a unique opportunity for DHL Supply Chain to add additional highquality transport services to our warehouse and transport solutions in Australia. We look forward to offering a fuller range of transport services to existing and new customers. DHL is well recognised for having a strong warehouse base and with this acquisition, we will be strengthening our offer with four services; Domestic Nationwide General Freight, Domestic Nationwide Express Freight, Specialised Services and Contract Logistics transport - with dedicated solutions for customers,” says Steve Thompsett, CEO, DHL Supply Chain Australia and New Zealand.

The Glen Cameron Group is recognized as a leader in freight and contract logistics

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WATM • August 2022

and DHL will benefit from the expertise of the Cameron Logistics’ team in the consumer and grocery sectors.

Glen Cameron, Founder and Executive

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id you know that the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) says a truck driver has the same level of skill as a barista.

Yes it is true.

The ABS is responsible for the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO). You can see the full list of current ANZSCO categories at http:// anzsco.ozhome.info/anzsco-completeoccupation-list?page=8 where you will find truck drivers are classified as a

Chairman of the Glen Cameron Group said, “Since founding the Glen Cameron Group 47 years ago and over the last five decades we have built a successful, diverse, and resilient business. What began as one 8-tonne truck in 1975 has evolved to be one of Australia’s largest transport and logistic business. Together with DHL, we can take our business to the next level.

The Glen Cameron Group will benefit from DHL’s large-scale network in over 220 countries and global forwarding expertise in air, ocean and road freight to ensure strong development opportunities for the business, its customers, and its employees.

“I’m excited to see the Glen Cameron Group join with DHL. Together, we can increase our footprint and become one of the largest transport and logistics businesses in this country. With the backing of a highly successful global corporate business, we have an opportunity to invest in growth and open new opportunities for our employees, and this marks an important milestone to continue an important legacy in the Australian transportation industry,” Mr Cameron concluded.

'level 4 skill level' which is the same as a barista.

We love our coffee but this is ridiculous.

Fortunately, the ABS is now consulting about classification of occupations and this is your chance to have your say.

If you believe the ABS needs to acknowledge the true skill it requires to drive a truck, make a submission to the ANZSCO consultation. Just go to https://consult.abs.gov.au/ Did you know that Aussie seaweed is being touted as a livestock food additive that can reduce methane emissions by 90 – 95%?

Just 50g of the additive per 14kg of feed can produce the effect.

Great for the Australian livestock industry.

The international patent rights are held by FutureFeed – a group involving CSIRO, Woolworths, GrainCorp, Harvest Road and Sparklabs Cultiv8. Three businesses have been licenced to sell the additive in Australia.

Focus

A look at the future of electric vehicles in Australia

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ith EV sales making up a small 1.6% of all new vehicle registrations in 2021, one of the most cited reasons that people are reluctant to take up electric vehicles is a lack of charging infrastructure.

This is according to Savvy who has used Electric Vehicle Council of Australia March 2022 data to look into the current state of EV charging infrastructure in Australia and what’s planned for the future.

• 700 new fast charging stations will be built around Australia in the next five years • Federal investment of $24.55 million through the first round of Future Fuels Fund for 400 public fast charging stations • Federal Labor government proposes $39.3m additional investment in providing charging stations every 150km • 350kW Ultra-Rapid chargers provide a potential 400km of range in 15 minutes • New EVs with industry leading 350kW maximum DC fastcharge rate claim to gain 111km range in 5 minutes Lack of charging facilities has led to failures in the EV space in other countries, so putting in infrastructure first makes sense. However, this leads to other

questions as there are many other reasons why EV take up stood at 1.6% in 2021.

Questions such as, how does it work with the reliance of this new charging infrastructure coming from Australia’s nearly 80% present energy production base of coal and natural resources. Surely, it would not be relying completely on the weather to work (renewables).

Also, what about future advancements in battery charging and storage technology – things that are yet invented, the cost of EVs, the cost to the environment on extraction of the rare earths and metals needed to manufacture batteries, the battery disposal at end of life; which leads people to question going electric is really that green The report rightly points out the tyranny of distance in Australia saying, We are remote as a continental island – a country that’s nearly 7.7 million km2 in size – and our major cities much more distant than other developed countries. Incidentally, the fully electric Nissan Leaf has a full range of 385km.

The types of EV charging stations Electric vehicles – such as fully electric or Plug-in Hybrid Electric vehicles (HEV) – require electric power from the grid (although not fully for Hybrids, which run on a mix of electric and petrol.)

EVs require DC power – supplied at a charging station direct or converted from AC to DC by the car’s internal converter.

Typically, one kilowatt (kW) will add one kilometre for each ten minutes of charging.

AC public charging stations fall into the range of about 7kW to 40kW and are usually referred to as “destination charging” stations, allowing cars to be recharged overnight.

DC charging stations are much quicker in comparison and designed for immediate top-ups.

There are two types of DC public charging stations – above 50kW fast charging and below 50kw regular charging.

At 50kW, a vehicle will add 50km of range (on average) for each ten minutes of charge.

Although few and far between, the fastest available charging stations in Australia are 350kW “ultra-rapid” facilities, such as those offered by providers like Chargefox which provides a theoretical 400km of range in 15 minutes. More have been promised by state and federal governments in the coming years.

Even if every DC charging point was capable of 350kW output, the vehicles themselves are limited by what they can accept. Until recently, top of the line EVs in Australia with DC maximums of 110kW to 200kW were considered high, however the latest vehicles such as Hyundai’s Iconiq 5 and the Kia EV6 both have max per hour charge speeds of 350kW. Other factors affect total charge time such as battery size or capacity.

Fast charging As of January 2022, there are 293 fast charging locations around Australia. This represents an increase of 85% since August 2020 (157).

Regular charging As of January 2022, there are 1,580 regular charging stations in Australia. This represents an increase of 29% since August 2020 (1219.)

The previous Coalition government pledged $24.55 million to co-funding 400 fast-chargers across approximately 200 sites, mainly in metropolitan locations.

The new Labor government announced a pre-election policy of a $39.3 million investment in a national electric vehicle charging network to establish charging stations every 150km on Australia’s major transport route. The amount will be matched by the NRMA. WATM • August 2022

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Focus: Health Independent TGA testing

Transport company leverages new Australian sanitisation solution to keep its business moving Shane Tucker, SRC Manager Ron Finemore Transport

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fter nearly two and a half years of the pandemic, most people have an appreciation of the importance of maintaining supply chains across Australia.

Keeping goods flowing to those who need them and protecting the drivers and staff who facilitate the process is an essential link of the supply chain says Shane Tucker, Safety, Operational Risk and Compliance Manager at Ron Finemore Transport.

Ron Finemore Transport provides a range of transport and logistic solutions to help their customers meet their supply chain demands.

“With a fleet of 289 prime movers travelling over 1.3 million kilometres every week and 900+ staff, we take every opportunity to provide the safest possible work environment, and this includes the safety of our customers and the public,” says Tucker.

“We deliver essential food and fuel products to major retailers such as Ampol, Woolworths and Aldi, so any impact on our staff like COVID-19 or the flu creates a significant knock-on effect to our customers and can result in significant disruption to supply chains and availability of product.

“At the start of 2022, I discovered ViroCLEAR which was the perfect solution for rapidly cleaning the interiors of our trucks. Their fogger dispenses a fine mist of anti-microbial sanitiser that provides a quick and effective clean that saves us valuable time, money and manpower without any compromise to quality.”

The company now fits out all its trucks with ViroCLEAR products including sanitiser/protectant fogger, disinfectant and hand sanitiser.

News

T WATM • August 2022

A leader in best in class OH&S standards Ron Finemore Transport is a leader in the transport industry when it comes to safety and it takes pride in ensuring a safe and healthy work environment by utilising the latest work processes and safety systems, training, fatigue management, accident prevention and effective communication.

“Early on in the pandemic we implemented an extensive COVID-19 response plan including onsite pathologists to conduct PCR tests with quick turnaround times, plus we established our own vaccination hub, undertook daily temperature checks and provided contactless delivery processes,” says Tucker.

“At the time, some people thought

Binduli North gold project in Kalgoorlie officially opens The WA State Government has congratulated Norton Gold Fields for officially opening its $278 million Binduli North heap leach project.

Located around 10 kilometres west of Kalgoorlie, the project created 300 jobs during construction and will employ 200 workers during production.

Binduli North will consist of four open pits, including the cut back of the existing

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Tucker says the surface disinfectant in particular has helped them maintain a strong safety culture supported by industry best practice compliance accreditation.

“The ViroCLEAR surface disinfectant is listed with the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods so we know it has passed all the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) independent safety standards,” says Tucker. “It is laboratory proven to kill COVID-19, SARs (a contagious and sometimes fatal respiratory illness) and Rhinovirus (the main culprit behind the common cold) within 90 seconds. It also kills Candida albicans within 60 seconds which causes tinea, athlete’s foot and fungal infections, plus 99.99 per cent of germs and bacteria.”

As the surface disinfectant is noncorrosive, it can be safely used on all surfaces and metals (including your clothes), plus it is non-flammable and has a pleasant, refreshing smell.

Janet Ivy, Fort Scott and Fort William open pits and the commencement of the Karen Louise open pit.

With known Mineral Resources, Binduli North is expected to complete mining in 2029. However, Norton continues to successfully explore the project.

Historically, ore from the Janet Ivy mine pit and other pits south of Great Eastern Highway has been trucked to Norton’s

our response was excessive, but our vigilance and forward planning ensured our staff were safe and services were not disrupted when the states’ lockdowns and restrictions came into effect. Thanks to the systems we had in place, we were able to safely maintain our services and assist our customers during the periods of panic buying and high demand.

“ViroCLEAR has become a key part of our defence plan, especially for high traffic, shared spaces such as offices, lunch and meeting rooms. If one of our staff members contracts COVID-19 or the flu, or is a close contact, then we know we have an effective product that will sanitise the space and make it safe and clean for others who may come into contact with it.

“The fact it is an Australian made and owned product is a bonus, as we like to support our fellow Aussies wherever possible.”

A gamechanger for the transportation industry

Thanks to the systems we had in place, we were able to safely maintain our services and assist our customers during the periods of panic buying and high demand unique plant based BioInnovate technology is powered by extracts of two Aussie botanicals - lemon bush and chamomile, making it alcohol and ethanol free*, and the botanicals lend a pleasant scent to the formula. The combination of the botanicals with a minute amount of the active ingredient multiplies the effectiveness of the product.

Daniel Seldon from Aussie Pharma Direct who distribute the ViroCLEAR range, says it’s a gamechanger for the transportation industry.

“Most other sanitisers on the market contain strong chemicals which with prolonged use, can be corrosive to expensive equipment and materials, and can also adversely affect those who use them,” says Seldon.

“At the start of the pandemic, we decided we wanted to do our bit in the fight against COVID-19 to keep everyone safe and businesses afloat, so we teamed up with BioInnovate who invented ViroCLEAR.” The innovation offers world-leading anti-microbial protection that has been rigorously tested in the laboratory. The

Taking hand hygiene to the next level

iconic Paddington mill for treatment.

The operation has an estimated 10-year life span and is expected to produce an average of 75,000 ounces of gold per year.

Once the heap leach facility reaches capacity, the additional output will place the company among the State's top 10 gold producers. Norton has recently produced up to 180,000 ounces of gold annually from its Eastern Goldfields tenements.

Heap leaching is a well-known process that involves stacking crushed ore on a lined pad and applying a chemical solution to dissolve precious minerals. The leached solution is collected and treated in a processing plant to extract the gold.

The project will enable Norton to mine and process low-grade ores that may have otherwise been left in the ground.

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston said, "Congratulations to Norton Gold Fields on the opening of its Binduli North heap leach project, which will deliver millions in royalties to the WA economy.

"It's always pleasing to see companies like Norton driving growth in WA's regional communities.

"With more than $16 billion of sales in 2021 and as WA's second most valuable commodity, gold will continue to play a significant role in our economic future."

Practising hand hygiene is an important part of helping to reduce the spread of Covid-19, as the virus can be transferred from one surface to another by contaminated hands touching the mouth, nose or eyes.

As the first line of defence, health authorities recommend washing hands in soap and water, but where not possible, they advise people to use a hand sanitiser.

However, with constant use, standard hand sanitisers and surface disinfectants containing alcohol or ethanol, can deteriorate the skin’s protective barrier, leading to dry, irritated skin, possible infection, and inflamed eczema.

“Of course, hand sanitisers are

ubiquitous now, but for anyone with sensitive skin, regular use can lead to painful irritation which means people can end up avoiding them completely, which isn’t ideal in these Covid times,” says Seldon. “So, it’s important to give them an alternative hand sanitiser such as ViroCLEAR that is actually restorative and kind to their hands.

“And thanks to the botanicals in it, it smells great, and it’s also safe for all ages and stages including children, pregnant women and the elderly, and those with asthma as it is non-toxic and non-flammable, and as it is non-corrosive, you can spray it on all surfaces including your clothes.”

The importance of remaining vigilant “With the BA. 4 and BA. 5 Omicron variants on the rise, we need to utilise all the tools in our toolkit to provide broad spectrum protection. With many COVID-19 restrictions now being relaxed, ensuring you take personal responsibility for your own health, and thereby protecting the vulnerable such as the immunocompromised, is vital,” says Seldon.

“We are understandably experiencing ‘pandemic fatigue’ and just want it all to go away, which has led to a level of complacency about COVID-19 precautions, but now is definitely not the time to go to sleep at the wheel with the diabolical combination of winter viruses including COVID-19 and influenza causing a rise of new infections and re-infections,” he finishes.

For more information visit www. aussiepharmadirect.com.au/ *ViroCLEAR Sanitiser & Protectant Fogger contains a small amount of ethanol to facilitate the aerosol disbursement of the product.

Historically, ore from the Janet Ivy mine pit and other pits south of Great Eastern Highway has been trucked to Norton’s iconic Paddington mill for treatment

WATM • August 2022

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News Pinjarra Post Office

Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation to improve safety and create jobs

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New Chair of the Road Safety Council

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oad Safety Minister Paul Papalia has welcomed Katie HodsonThomas JP as the newly appointed Chair of the Road Safety Council.

After 25 years since it was formed, the Road Safety Council continues to play an important role in reducing fatalities and serious injuries on Western Australian roads.

The council is made up of members from key State Government agencies, as well as the WA Local Government Association and RAC. Together, they recommend priority road safety projects and programs to improve the safety of roads across the State and support community outcomes.

Ms Hodson-Thomas is the Director of Corporate and Public Affairs at the Perth-based arm of global consulting firm FTI Consulting, and has extensive experience in public policy development, government relations and stakeholder engagement.

As a member of the WA Parliament between 1996 and 2008, Ms HodsonThomas served as a Parliamentary Secretary to the Health Minister, held shadow portfolio responsibilities for transport, tourism, small business, environment and road safety, and was Deputy Chair of the Community Development and Justice Standing Committee.

In addition to her road safety experience in her Parliamentary capacity, Ms Hodson-Thomas took a proactive approach to road safety in her former role as Chief Executive Officer of the Caravan Industry Association WA. She was formerly independent Chair of the WA Fishing Industry Council and

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WATM • August 2022

is currently a member of the Gaming and Wagering Commission.

Ms Hodson-Thomas' appointment comes as current Chair Iain Cameron has completed the maximum tenure of five years on the council.

Mr Cameron served as Chair of the council from July 2017 and during this time has made a valuable and lasting contribution to road safety in WA. As Chair of the council, Mr Cameron has been a passionate advocate for a safe system approach to road safety and these principles are reflected in the Driving Change Road Safety Strategy that guides WA’s road safety journey over the next decade since it was released.

Road Safety Minister Paul Papalia said, “I would like to congratulate Ms Hodson-Thomas on her appointment as Chair of the Road Safety Council.

“The McGowan Government has set an ambitious target to reduce the number of people fatally, severely or seriously injured by 50 to 70 per cent by 2030 and the leadership of the Road Safety Council is key to achieving this.

“Ms Hodson-Thomas's experience in representing the interests of the WA community at a federal and local level gives me every confidence in her ability to lead the council and improve road safety outcomes for the benefit of everyone who uses our roads.

“I would like to thank Iain Cameron for his significant contribution to road safety in WA during his five years on the council.

“Mr Cameron can feel proud that under his leadership, the council has supported a range of programs and projects that save lives on our roads.”

remier Mark McGowan and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti have together inspected the location of the $250 million Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation - which is set to create thousands of local jobs and divert trucks from the centre of town.

The State Government has allocated $50 million to the project, with the Federal Government committing $200 million.

The project is expected to create more than 1,500 jobs and will deliver a safe, alternate route for heavy vehicles.

Currently 700 trucks pass through Pinjarra every day. The project will divert these heavy vehicles away from the town centre, improving safety and reducing congestion.

The $250 million project will include: • a new road between South Western Highway (north) and Greenlands Road roundabout; • improvements to the existing PinjarraWilliams Road near the Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation interchange; • grade separation of rail and road crossings; and • new bridges over the Murray River and Oakley Brook.

Currently 700 trucks pass through Pinjarra every day. The project will divert these heavy vehicles away from the town centre, improving safety and reducing congestion Main Roads is aware of the cultural significance attached to the area around the proposed construction, and will continue to consult with the Aboriginal community, ensuring all heritage approvals are in place before starting work.

Subject to approvals, work on the project is expected to commence in late 2024.

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, “The Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation has been spoken about for many years, and I'm pleased we've secured $250 million to deliver Stages 1 and 2.

“Almost 700 trucks pass through the Pinjarra town site each day. This new route will remove those trucks from the main street, making it much safer for local road users and travellers.”

News

We can do better T

he recent publication of the membership of ITSOC, NTC, ARRB, Austroads etc attracted a lot of attention and comment says the Australian Trucking Association (ATA).

The ATA asked the Commonwealth department for the membership of the ITSOC board, who provided the response that ‘this membership list is not a public document.’

The ATA communication manager has worked in federal, state and local government and says she’s never seen anything like this level of secrecy.

“We’re opening up this discussion because we’re concerned about the lack of transparency and openness from some government agencies,” says the ATA. “It’s simply unacceptable that the ATA had to use legal avenues for documents from the NTC and some State jurisdictions.

“This then leads to the ongoing relationship between government and industry at senior levels.

“National Cabinet is rightly focused on productivity and yet we have a situation

where Ken Kanofski is reviewing the NTC review of the HVNL. “The ATA has written to departmental heads about this untenable situation.

“The departmental heads have a lot of influence. They're the people Ministers turn to for high level advice. However, all too often, these department heads don't get up to speed on issues until a few days before meetings with Ministers.

“Too few have structured discussions with industry leaders.

“We know that many have their work cut out for them handling the internal dynamics of their departments.

“However, when it comes to national freight matters, we fear they're not focusing enough on their customers, the tax-paying public.

“Even the European Union is more coordinated than Australia when it comes to interstate transport and it has far more bodies to contend with.

“We can do better,” the ATA concludes.

Battery cathode precursor production pilot plant launches in Perth

T

he State Government has welcomed the launch of the Future Battery Industries Cooperative Research Centre's (FBICRC) Cathode Precursor Production pilot plant.

Located at Curtin University in Bentley, the Australian-first pilot plant will help design and build cathode precursor manufacturing facilities on a commercial and industrial scale.

Cathode precursors are a crucial element of the battery value chain and include nickel, cobalt, manganese, graphite and lithium. Together with graphite,

aluminium and copper, Western Australia produces all the elements needed for modern batteries.

The pilot plant will help educate and upskill the next generation of chemical and process engineers to support the growing battery and critical minerals industries.

The FBICRC's report 'Future Charge: Building Australia's Battery Industries' proposed that establishing an active materials manufacturing program could deliver $1 billion to the economy and support 4,800 jobs by 2030.

Through the Minerals Research Institute

ROAD USER CHARGE UNCHANGED, BUT FUEL TAX CREDITS GONE

M

inisters have delayed decisions relating to changes in the road user charge (RUC) which will remain at 26.4 cpl from 1 July 2022. Ministers will next meet on 5 August 2022 and the ALRTA has called for a lower increase than the level proposed by Ministers.

Due to the Australian Government’s decision to reduce the fuel excise rate by 22.1 cpl, from 30 March 2022 until 28 September 2022, businesses using fuel in heavy vehicles for travelling on public roads will not be able to claim fuel tax credits as the RUC exceeds the excise duty paid.

Also, normal fuel tax credits will not be available during the relief period and operators are being advised to set aside sufficient financial reserves to meet any liabilities that would normally cover fuel tax credits.

of Western Australia and Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, the McGowan Government has contributed $6 million towards establishing the FBICRC. They have also committed $13.2 million to facilitate global investment in precursor cathode manufacturing in WA. Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston said, "Western Australia isn't just famous for having all the minerals you need to make a battery, we also have the capabilities to progress down the value chain and grow our battery manufacturing and downstream processing industries."

DRIVER AWARD WAGES TO INCREASE 4.6%

T

he Australian Fair Work Commission has increased award minimum wages by 4.6%, or around $40 per week based on a 38-hour week full-time employee.

This means minimum award wages: • above $869.60 per week, will get a 4.6% increase • below $869.60 per week, will get a $40 increase.

The increases will affect transport awards and will apply from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2022.

Also, the super guarantee rate will lift from 10% to 10.5% from 1 July 2022.

WATM • August 2022

21

Over to you

More cars at the Midland Railway Workshops

VINTAGE AUTOMOBILE ASSOCIATION’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

By Kevin Toovey

T

he HCVC was invited to the Vintage Automobile Association (VAA) Book Launch for their 50th year and their 20 years of having their own clubroom HCVC Members and their cars gathered down at Fish market Reserve in Guilford.

The oldest car - Robert and Lorraine Hyde's 1926 Chevrolet truck then led the way as we drove in a convoy through the streets to the next destination for the photo shoot.

The back drop of the old Midland Railway workshop buildings really made some of these cars come alive. It was like

22

WATM • August 2022

stepping back in time. Then it was back to the VAA club house where a wonderful afternoon tea was awaiting.

The VAA had also organised for a bus to pick up the residents from the local age care facility to join in during the afternoon tea and to look at some of the old vehicles.

Then it was time for the book launch, the book named “Past Times” is a historical account of the VAA that was founded in 1972. It would have been a lot of work to correlate all the pictures and the information. Thanks to the VAA and all their members for a great day out.

Old vehicles look good up against the Midland Railway Workshops

Back at the VAA clubrooms

Old vehicles look good up against the Midland Railway Workshops

Robert and Lorraine Hyde arrive in their 1926 Chev truck.

Ford Zepher outside the VAA clubrooms

Part of the line up at Fish Market Reserve

The afternoon tea

A long black Cadilac arrives.

Back at the VAA clubrooms

The afternoon tea

WATM • August 2022

23

History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon

1985

I

t was reported to the May 30 Executive Council Meeting that the State Government was intending to proceed with legislation to introduce a licensing fee for inter-State operators. The fee was likely to be $1700 per vehicle, which would include $300 for insurance. The fee would be levied as a charge for road use and would be allocated to the States for road funding via a trust fund. The Association had opposed the concept of operator licensing.

The Liberal Party’s Shadow Minister for Transport, Peter Jones, said in a speech to the Chartered Institute of Transport on June 11 that the Liberals were committed to the deregulation of all road transport and the ending of the WA Coastal Shipping Commission. This was lauded by the Executive Council.

Mrs M Holland retired from the Association office on June 20 after 10 years’ service and was replaced by Mrs Isabelle Freeman.

It was reported in the West Australian of July 16 that Westrail’s expenditure

24

WATM • August 2022

Sicnag, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/ by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

The Livestock Transporters’ Association of WA had voted for the establishment of a Federal body. WARTA and the LTA decided to have a close working relationship, especially when it came to fuel pricing policy had increased $11.9 million (4.9 percent) because of higher salaries and wages and other extra costs in handling grain.

The Transport Commission sent a letter to the Association, dated August 16, that as from August 1, Westrail services on the Alumina Junction-Dwellingup, WonnerupNannup and Busselton-Capel branch lines had closed and the South Busselton Road Transport Area implemented.

The Livestock Transporters’ Association of WA had voted for the establishment of a Federal body. WARTA and the LTA decided

to have a close working relationship, especially when it came to fuel pricing policy.

The Annual General Meeting was staged on August 29 and no election was necessary with the correct number for the positions available. The other major item, besides several constitutional adjustments, was a plea from C J Sheppard regarding the effectiveness of the Association’s membership card to gain access to such sites as the Burrup Peninsula.

Westrail gained a seat on the Tender Review (Grain By Road) Committee and announced its intention to quote on the total movement of the grain harvest, both by rail and road.

President D N Gilham was elected a Vice-President of the ARTF at the Annual Conference in Tasmania.

WARTA engaged Convention Makers to oversee the organisation of the 1986 ARTF Convention in Perth.

In the period June 21, 1985 until December 6, 1985, it was reported that local transport costs had increased 4.7 percent and long-distance transport 4.45 percent.

Trouble in the Bus Division arose at the end of the year. A West Australian newspaper article of December 16, 1985, titled “Row brewing over WA school buses”, had comments by Mr J Jury criticising WARTA. Mr Jury had been elected chairman of a new group called the Bus Owners’ Action Group. Mr Jury and P M Masson were summoned to appear before the committee. Mr Masson, who had been recommended for censure by the School Bus Division, arrived, was given 35 minutes to put his case, and after some discussion was told he had acted “contrary to the best interests of the Association” and summarily struck from the roll. Mr Jury could not make the meeting. He fronted the Executive Council on January 20 and no further action was taken.

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News

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