17 minute read
TRAILERS ON SHOW
Fully Loaded
Australia’s world-class trailer manufacturing industry may be struggling to keep up with demand, but key players reveal plans to showcase some innovative new products at the upcoming 2023 Brisbane Truck Show
Strike up a conversation with anyone from the trailer world at the upcoming Brisbane Truck Show and you’ll hear a similar story: “Our order books are full, but there is a lack of trades people and we can’t build enough, quick enough”.
This unique predicament is primarily due to supply chain issues that have hamstrung the trailer industry for more than two years. The pandemic is to blame and the ripple effects it has produced are taking their toll.
However, despite this the latest data shows new trailer registrations are through the roof, up a record 24.8 per cent over the past 12 months and forecast to keep growing at a rapid clip.
ARTSA-i Data Executive Director Rob Perkins says new trailer registrations in the past year have hit nearly 15,000.
“That’s 15,000 new heavy trailers put on the road since June 2021, that’s nearly a 14 per cent increase from the year before,” he says.
“It’s good for the manufacturers, their order books are full. People will snap up anything, but for the customer who wants to use the equipment it can be very daunting because they can’t walk into a dealership and buy a truck or trailer and get it delivered for a job by the following week.”
It’s a truly unique position around the world – a pandemic that continues to cause considerable disruption to supply chains and manufacturing and which has created a long waiting list for everyone. Yet demand is at record highs.
MaxiTRANS will showcase the latest products from its suite of brands, including Trout River
For Perkins, the bigger question is what’s driving the continued growth; and, just as importantly, whether it will continue.
“Why are we growing so quickly? I honestly can’t fully answer that. In the past, growth has often been driven by a change in technical standards, but we’re not facing that at the moment,” he says.
“However, the economy is retooling, things are on the move and there is no question that the transport sector is a good indicator of where the economy is going – moving stuff by truck means things are happening.
“Demand exceeds supply. And if people could buy it today, they would. But the problem is, the manufacturers of trucks, trailers and all the related componentry are really struggling to keep up with demand.
“This is being fuelled in the post-pandemic era by labour and materials shortages, stretching out delivery timeframes.”
But it’s not all doom and gloom, according to Perkins.
“I think we’re on the dawn of a huge opportunity. Our trailer manufacturers have never been busier, we just need to crack that labour and supply nut,” he concludes.
This sentiment is shared by Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) CEO Todd Hacking, who is excited for what he thinks will be the biggest Brisbane Truck Show ever in 2023.
“Just like during COVID, when we saw the instability and uncertainty thrust upon us from outside sources, now is the time to stay calm and together. The immediate period coming is going to test our resolve but HVIA will be doing what it can to ease the pain,” he says.
“Australia has some of the finest, most innovative trailer manufacturers and designers in the world. We are admired globally, and I’m extremely excited to see what examples of our industry are presented come Truck Show 2023.
“COVID supply chain issues and labour shortages are a present challenge but we know how resilient this sector is, just look at the latest numbers, and we know Truck Show will be where new models, innovations and launches will happen. It will be big!” Hacking adds.
Read on for a sneak peak of what Australia’s major trailer manufacturers are planning to showcase at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.
MaxiTRANS
Australia’s largest supplier of locally manufactured trailers, MaxiTRANS, will celebrate another key milestone at the upcoming 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.
Maxi-CUBE, the company’s refrigerated trailer brand, marks its half century in 2022, a huge achievement, and follows sibling-brand, Freighter, which celebrated its 75th anniversary at the previous event.
MaxiTRANS always puts on an impressive display at the Truck Show, and the upcoming 2023 edition shouldn’t be any different.
On display will be the latest products from key brands including Freighter, Maxi-CUBE, Lusty EMS, Hamelex White, Trout River and AZMEB, covering all freight types, from general to temperature-controlled and bulk. stand 63
GREAT HALL
“We are excited to once again be a part of this great industry event and showcase our products at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.
“We are committed to supporting the great work of the HVIA and throw our support behind the event that continues to bring our industry together,” MaxiTRANS Marketing and Communications Manager Rick Challons says.
“As we saw with the 2021 show, the event is invaluable as it offers the opportunity to meet as many customers as possible in one location.”
Holmwood Highgate
Leading bulk liquid tanker manufacturer Holmwood Highgate is confident of a big 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.
The Brisbane-based manufacturer, which builds premium liquid tankers out of its Brisbane and Melbourne facilities, says the event is a key marketing platform for its products, which now include a dry bulk tanker option unveiled recently.
“We are looking for record attendance levels and the opportunity to showcase our product to a greater audience than ever before,” Holmwood Highgate Marketing Manager Tom McKellar says.
“The event is always key for us to display our capability on a very broad and open platform.”
Despite the industry facing supply chain issues and labour force shortages, Holmwood Highgate believes things could be worse.
“(We are) busy and booming,” McKellar says.
stand 48 “Logistics and freight has never been in such HALL 3 high demand in Australia. “We relish the opportunity and the challenge it presents to keep up with demand and will continue to do all we can to meet it.” All suppliers are in the same boat, he adds. “The issue is definitely on a global scale as demand has skyrocketed whilst labour forces and materials are becoming more and more scarce. “Key personal is becoming more and more critical as time goes on. Though we are feeling the pinch, we are doing everything we can to stay ahead and do what we can to maintain a skilled workforce and meet critical dates,” he says. The family-owned business employs more than 200 staff across its Queensland and Victorian locations, with its bread-and-butter fuel tankers, as well as bitumen, tallows, waste and oils, aviation and military refuelling applications.
Bulk liquid tanker manufacturer Holmwood Highgate is confident of a big 2023 Brisbane Truck Show
Drake Group
The Drake Group will celebrate 65 years of operation next year, so expect a great showing from the trailer juggernaut at the 2023 Truck Show.
But it’s the prospect of getting back to normal for the upcoming show that excites the company most.
“Although the last Truck Show was a huge success, there were still a lot of customers and suppliers missing. It will be great to get back to normal and catch up again,” Drake Group Marketing and Events Coordinator Peta Albion says.
The Drake Group, which comprises Drake Trailers, O’Phee Trailers, Drake Collectibles, and Dalzell and Bagley Engineering, will have a bigger stand than in previous
years, which the company says will make room for a wider selection of its brands and products. “We’re going to have around seven trailers on display so we’re hoping to put on a good show for everyone,” Drake Trailers Sales Manager Byron Foss adds. “Now we have a bit more space, we will have a good mix of Drake and O’Phee equipment on display, so we’re very excited about the upcoming Truck Show.” Led by John Drake, this proud family operation has built a rock-solid reputation as one of the best in the business. According to Foss, work has never been busier. stand “I’ve been at Drake for 10 years and I’ve never seen it this busy,” he says. “Obviously, it’s currently busy, but will be busy into the future as orders are still coming in, so that’s really exciting for the business and our employees. “We love getting those phone calls from new customers who come to us without speaking to anyone else because of our reputation and we strive to keep that reputation that we’ve worked hard for.” Drake has been based out of its purpose-built manufacturing facility in Wacol, Queensland since 1992.
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HALL 4
The Drake Group plans to take advantage of its larger space to showcase seven trailers across its key brands Drake and O’Phee
CIMC/Marshall Lethlean
When CIMC Vehicles purchased the renowned Marshall Lethlean brand in 2008, it knew it was buying a market leader.
Marshall Lethlean, which was founded in 1973, is a name synonymous with stand road tankers in Australia, supplying many major Australian companies.
The CIMC Vehicle Group — one of the largest semi-trailer manufacturers in the world — has strived to keep this reputation.
Taking advantage of its global network, the
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HALL 3
The CIMC Vehicle Group expects a new tanker and curtain-sider design could be on display in 2023
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group believes it has achieved a good balance between value-for-money and a quality product with excellent local support and backed by a national service network.
“CIMC has moved from the traditional labourintensive manufacturing model to a technologyintensive manufacturing model,” CIMC Vehicle Australia Managing Director Sven Liao says. “CIMC trailers first landed in Australia in 2005. Since then, we have made a number of significant investments in local manufacturing, most recently in 2018, with a brand-new, purpose-built 51,000-square-metre facility being opened in Melbourne.”
It’s at this facility where all accessories are fitted and ADR quality control checks are performed by the CIMC team.
Liao is tight-lipped about what will be on show at CIMC’s 2023 Truck Show stand but expects a new tanker and curtain-sider design could be on display.
“We feel like this (Brisbane Truck Show) is one of the most important marketing events in Australia,” he says.
“It’s a very unique opportunity to have every trailer and truck manufacturer in the same place. We get to see old friends, customers and suppliers from all over Australia. It’s a great platform, and we really enjoy the opportunity.”
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Robuk Engineering
Brisbane-based Robuk Engineering opened its doors in June 2020, after owner James Yerbury decided to go out on his own.
The newcomer quickly outgrew its shed in rural Queensland and shifted HQ to its current facility at the Port of Brisbane where it specialises in light-weight aluminium grain tippers.
Thanks to a few incredible farming seasons, demand for grain tippers has kept Robuk, like many manufacturers, incredibly busy.
“We started with just three staff and a small shed in rural Queensland and we now have approximately 50 employees,” National Sales Manager Darren Riedel says.
After using the 2021 Truck Show as its “unofficial stand 160 launch party”, Robuk will hit the 2023 event with style, with plans to unveil a special purpose-built HALL 3 combination. “The Brisbane Truck Show allows us to tell the Robuk story face to face, and nothing beats that,” Riedel says. “We are looking forward to our staff showing off the quality trailers that they’ve built. It’s amazing to see our team bring their extended friends and families through our stand with pride and joy.” Robuk is always evolving, introducing new products, procedures and designs, Riedel adds. “While we haven’t built any new designs lately as we have been inundated with grain tippers due to the brilliant seasons, we do have a few new designs we will launch next year,” he reveals.
Robuk Engineering expects to launch a number of new designs in time for next year’s Truck Show
Show Sundowners
A local’s expert guide to the best places to grab a beer, wine or cocktail when the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show doors eventually close for the day
You’ll be happy to know that your day doesn’t need to end when the Truck Show doors close for the day. It’s time to hit the streets of South Bank – one of the River City’s best bar and restaurant hubs. Here is our expert guide to the best bars and pubs to experience at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.
The Charming Squire, South Bank
Located essentially under the Brisbane Truck Show’s venue, there isn’t a more convenient stop for a beer than the Charming Squire. This ‘brewhouse’ is a fantastic venue, which also plays as an on-site microbrewery (brewing the popular James Squire line of beer). Its a popular spot with the locals due to its location, great atmosphere and relaxed vibe.
Above: The iconic Plough Inn watering hole; Below: The Charming Squire Plough Inn, South Bank
Situated in the heart of the South Bank Parklands, the Plough Inn is one of the River City’s most iconic watering holes. Established in 1864, this pub delivers a beloved historical charm with modern extensions and comfort. The heritage building mixed with its four bars and 50 beer taps makes The Plough Inn a ‘must-go’ post-Truck Show stop with mates. Be quick, the beer garden fills up quick!
Southbeach, South Bank
Truckies love cocktails and pop music … don’t they? This beach holiday-inspired bar on the South Bank foreshore is one of the hottest spots in town. It’s fun, hip and refreshing, boasts wonderful city views and mixes a summery cocktail like no other, making it perfect for the Truck Show pundit. Southbeach is like the beach vacation you were hoping for after the Truck Show!
The Ship Inn, South Bank
Built in 1864, the Ship Inn is another iconic pub that graces the River City with its 19th-century charm. Located near the Maritime Museum, the Ship Inn is as classic as it gets, with no pokies, no TVs, not even a TAB, just beer and food and a wonderful pub vibe. If you’re after a quality pub to pitstop at postTruck Show, this classy old pub is a winner.
The beach-inspired Southbeach is one of the hottest spots in town
The Sangria Bar, South Bank
The Sangria Bar is something a little bit different for truckies, but rest assured, it features on almost every ‘best bars’ list in Brisbane. Located next to its sister restaurant, Ole, the Sangria Bar brings the best of Spain to South Bank. It’s vibrant, trendy and offers something a little bit different for visitors. Sit back and nibble on some tapas while sipping on a sangria … it’s as relaxing as it sounds.
Barbossa, South Bank
Barbossa is a Caribbean-inspired venue featuring an extensive bar with over 200 cocktails, barrelaged infused rums made in-house, and a large variety of beers, wines and ciders. The kitchen cooks up a storm until midnight seven days a week. Its fresh new functions menu offers a wide range of food options, Caribbean-inspired tapas and Australian classics.
Hop & Pickle, South Bank
Little Stanley Street’s resident gastronomy experience is Hop & Pickle, a relaxed pub focused on good, fresh food and simple, classic drinks. Based on providing good old-fashion hospitality, Hop & Pickle exudes a style the staff refer to as ‘Hop Culture’. Specialising in deep-fried pickles, daily changing mains, and the traditional Sunday roast of old, Hop & Pickle allows its diners to really appreciate the full experience of a homey gastropub with a modern flourish.
Southbank Beer Garden, South Bank
Brisbane’s only beach-side beer garden is right here in the heart of South Bank. Take a peek through the glass windows to see the char-grilled magic that puts juicy steaks on your plates. The Beer Garden is a celebration of all things carnivorous
Barbossa is a Caribbeaninspired venue serving more than 200 cocktails
with its tender, flavourful meats, triple-cooked hand-cut chips, and alfresco dining experience. Savour the taste of its gourmet eats with a pint of craft beer overlooking Streets Beach.
Tippler’s Tap, South Bank
Tippler’s Tap is the answer for every craft beer lover seeking a new local haunt. Unpretentious in nature, it offers a smattering of craft beer varieties against a rustic backdrop. Rotating brews of ales, lagers and ciders on its appealing unmarked taps, Tippler’s Tap specialises in showcasing local and renowned brews. You’ll also find a tasty menu inspired by the Chicago street food scene including hotdogs, sliders and Tippler’s famous wings.
Archive Beer Boutique, West End
Welcome to West End, more specifically Boundary Street, the cultural hub of Brisbane. Here you’ll find hipsters and greenies and plenty of bicycles, but with that also comes some of the city’s best trendy cafes and bars, a standout being Archive. A craft beer haven, Archive is quite the institution in this part of the world. Open seven days a week,
Tippler’s Tap offers craft beer and Chicagoinspired street food
Clockwise from top: Archive; Saccharomyces; and Brisbane Brewing Co
and just a quick Uber or an easy walk from the show, if you’re into your beers and live music, Archive has you sorted.
The Bearded Lady, West End
Just up the road from Archive you’ll find another West End gem, The Bearded Lady. Entering through the front doors you’ll see a honky tonk piano which sets the scene for its organisedchaos vibe, which makes it so popular with the locals. Its ethos is all about being safe, having a good time with friends, and partying like no other with a great selection of craft beer and cocktails. If you’re feeling like taking in some West End culture, then The Bearded Lady is the perfect bar.
Brisbane Brewing Co, Woolloongabba
If you’re looking for something a bit upmarket with amazing independently brewed beer, then Brisbane Brewing Co should be your point of call. Technically in Woolloongabba, on the corner of Stanley Street and Annerley Road, Brisbane Brewing Co is the city’s original brewpub. A fan favourite for sports lovers, being only a short walk from the Gabba, Brisbane Brewing Co opened its doors in 2005. Take in the heritage-listed building that is the former Clarence Hotel and relax with its quality beer brewed on-site and up-market pub grub.
MAKER, South Brisbane
Some of Brisbane’s best digs can be found on Fish Lane, none more so than Maker. This hole-in-thewall bar is arguably one of the hottest in Brisbane. At Maker, you will explore stunningly presented handmade seasonal cocktails which are best paired with its elegant food. The best way to describe the experience is fine dining for cocktails. A tiny, minimalist bar that packs huge flavour and flair.
Saccharomyces Beer Café, South Brisbane
It’s all about local with Sacchromyces Beer Cafe, the Fish Lane gem that offers up the best of the independent craft beer and wine world to you. This bar and kitchen is one of the best in the business, evident from its 17 rotating beer taps. With quality beer and wine must come quality food as well, which Saccharomyces happily helps you pair. A must-do for beer and wine lovers.
