Big Rigs 21 January 2022

FRIDAY, January 21, 2022

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FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

CONTACT US Address: 11-15 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Phone: 03 9690 8766 Email: editor@bigrigs.com.au Web: bigrigs.com.au Accounts: 03 9690 8766 Subscriptions: 03 9690 8766 Classifieds: 0403 626 353 Circulation and distribution queries: 03 9690 8766 info@bigrigs.com.au EDITOR James Graham: 0478 546 462 james.graham@primecreative.com.au REPORTERS Danielle Gullaci danielle.gullaci@primecreative.com.au Trent Price trent.price@primecreative.com.au GENERAL MANAGER Peter Hockings: 0410 334 371 peter.hockings@primecreative.com.au MEDIA SALES CONSULTANT Marie O’Reilly: 0403 626 353 marie.oreilly@primecreative.com.au CLIENT SUCCESS Katharine Causer: 0423 055 787 katharine.causer@primecreative. com.au CONTRIBUTORS Truckin in the Topics/Spy on the Road: Alf Wilson, 0408 009 301 Brent Davison; David Vile; David Meredith; Mike Williams; Jon Wallis Big Rigs National Road Transport Newspaper is published by Prime Creative Media. It is the largest circulated fortnightly truck publication in Australia with 26,023* copies per fortnight. *12 month average, publisher’s claim November 2018

Suppliers allowed to collaborate on AdBlue

THE Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is allowing manufacturers and other industry stakeholders to collaborate on arrangements for the supply of AdBlue.

In a recent media statement, the ACCC said AdBlue manufacturers are seeking to share information and work together to develop solutions to any potential future shortages of refined urea, a key ingredient in AdBlue.

“The ACCC’s interim authorisation allows AdBlue manufacturers to cooperate in a number of ways without the risk of breaching competition laws,” said ACCC Chair Rod Sims.

“This permits the indus-

try, in conjunction with government, to co-ordinate and respond more quickly and effectively to any supply constraints of urea.”

Following the interim authorisation, the parties can collaborate on issues such as sharing information about stock levels, supply channels and manufacturing opportunities, prioritising access to refined urea and AdBlue according to need (for example, to particular geographical areas or consumers), collaborating on the production of AdBlue and implementing sales limits.

“This enables AdBlue manufacturers and the Australian government to consider the best way to respond

to any potential future supply constraints,” Sims said.

“The manufacturers’ co-ordination of their response with the government is an important step in providing a regular supply of AdBlue which is critical to our nation’s transportation sector, food production and the broader economy.”

Sims said AdBlue manufacturers are also required to invite the ACCC to any meetings where these issues are discussed.

Authorisation has not been sought, and interim authorisation has not be granted, for AdBlue manufacturers to share information about or reach agreements on price.

Around the same time,

Incitec Pivot Limited (IPL) released a statement saying it had “quickly mobilised expert teams” to work on expanding its manufacturing capability at its Gibson Island plant in Brisbane and increase Australia’s supply of AdBlue.

While most of the urea produced is fertiliser grade used by Australian farmers, a small portion is used to make AdBlue, supplying around 10 per cent of the Australian market.

Meanwhile, Energy Minister Angus Taylor has called in the ACCC to monitor price gouging, reported The Australian.

ACCC chair Rod Sims said any AdBlue producers pushing up prices to exploit

The consumer watchdog is asking truckies to dob in anyone suspected of price gouging.

Photo: Facebook/Grant Booth

the national shortage could be found to be engaging in unconscionable conduct or “named and shamed”.

Sims urged anyone concerned about high AdBlue prices to contact the ACCC, saying there was a lot of competition between suppliers and an expectation for prices to rise.

Drivers warned of ATO crackdown on receipts TRUCKIES are being warned to check deduction thresholds and keep accurate records when claiming meal allowances.

National Road Freighters Association (NRFA) vice president Trevor Warner told Big Rigs that many drivers just aren’t aware of what’s required of them and are risking heavy penalties.

“The biggest issue we’ve got is that drivers buy their meals

and while they keep some receipts, they don’t keep other receipts,” said Warner.

“They put in their tax and all of a sudden they find themselves getting audited. So, they send their logbooks and bank statements thinking everything is okay and then they find out the reality of the real world is different to what the gossip on the highway says.

“We’ve had one driver au-

dited four years in a row.”

The meal deduction threshold is re-evaluated by the Australian Tax Office (ATO) each year but is currently just over $100 a day. However, the information available on the ATO website may differ when compared with the actual legislation when it comes to presenting financial records.

Trevor Stanton from Stanton Advisory, a Sydney ac-

counting firm that specialises in the trucking industry, said the ATO’s Tax Determination TD2020/5 provides what they deem to be ‘reasonable amounts’ for a truck driver’s overtime meals in the 202021 financial year ($25.75 for breakfast, $29.35 for lunch and $50.65 for dinner).

“To make things more complicated, these per-meal amounts are separate and can-

not be aggregated into a single daily amount. A driver’s work diary can and should be used by the truck driver’s accountant to demonstrate when meal breaks were taken.

“The tax deduction allowed for each overtime meal is the amount the driver has actually spent and not simply the “reasonable amounts”, so this is why it is crucial to keep receipts.”

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Omicron amplifies staffing issues around Australia

PRAGMATIC, tangible fixes are what the industry is crying out for to offset the potential impacts of Omicron on the driver shortage, said the head of Western Australia’s transport association.

While welcoming the recent relaxing of isolation rules in some sectors, Western Roads Federation (WRF)

CEO Cam Dumesny said the commonwealth and WA government needed to start putting “real solutions” on the table.

One of those suggested by the WRF is enlisting the services of recently retired truckies to act as mentors to enable new recruits to fast-track their licences up to MC level.

With the state already critically short on drivers, Dumesny said the sense of urgency is ramping up with WA Premier Mark McGowan setting February 5 as the date in which the state will reopen to the rest of Australia (at deadline for this issue).

“The government is looking for a magic bullet [solution] but there is no magic bullet, it’s going to be a combination of things,” said Dumesny.

They also included providing free rapid antigen tests for truckies, improving training pathways for drivers and allowing the industry to train refugee and migrant workers who were unable to work.

He said in WA the suitable migrant pool included 80 Afghans who drove for the Australian Defence Force in Afghanistan, but cannot work in Australia because their licences are not recognised.

“These migrant people want to work, they want to build a life here,” he said.

“Our industry will take them, but we need them

In WA alone there is an estimated shortfall of 1000 road train drivers.

trained. That means they need access to affordable training.”

Dumesny estimates WA is at least 1000 drivers short as a result of hard borders and the big freight task, which includes surging online deliveries, a record grain harvest and price highs for gold and iron ore.

Meanwhile, in Victoria, concerns were mounting at deadline for this issue over how the mandated booster jab will impact on driver ranks in the food industry.

Lyndon Watson, chief executive of Melbourne-based Don Watson Transport, said his company has been “extremely fortunate” to have a dedicated permanent driver cohort that has remained relatively stable through the Covid pandemic.

“That said, recent developments are putting grave pressure on our ability to supply consistent carrier services to the food industry,” said Watson.

“We’ve got Covid-related absenteeism issues we’re expecting to ramp up further through the end of January

and peak through February, early March, putting stresses on our ability to provide carrier services for perishable items.

“In addition to this, the new Victorian government’s mandate requiring food distribution workers to have their third vaccine booster to keep their job, looks like it may further distort the labour market right when we need as many bums on seats that we can get.”

The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has also reiterated its call to make rapid antigen testing free for all truckies to help ease the pressure on drivers.

Victoria has already exempted close contact transport workers from isolation requirements provided they return a negative rapid antigen test every day for five days.

“If a critical service worker is identified as a close Covid contact but returns a negative test result, there is no reason they shouldn’t be permitted to return to work, so we welcome this variation to the rules and encourage the states and territories to

adopt it immediately,” said VTA CEO Peter Anderson.

“This should include those that have had and recovered from Covid, and have since returned a negative test result. While the Victorian government is to be commended for being the first to abolish isolation requirements for close contact transport workers, its additional requirement that they be tested every day for five days with a RAT presents its own challenges.”

Anderson said any further specific constraints placed on supply chain personnel will only create additional pressure leading to a loss or reduction of drivers and capacity.

“The transport industry needs specific assistance not further constraints, the effects of which will continue to be seen in a reduction of goods on supermarket shelves, which will only create unnecessary surge buying and hording,” he said.

“The industry needs to be consulted on any decision that will present constraints before they are implemented.”

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FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Ministers green light new truck driver apprenticeship

THE Morrison government has cleared the road for a new truck driving apprenticeship, following calls from the transport and logistic sector for a nationally agreed qualification.

The new national appren-

ticeship, Certificate III in Driving Operations, will see the industry in conjunction with states and territories develop a truck driving apprenticeship for the first time following endorsement of a new framework

Each state and territory will now consider adding the Morrisonendorsed truckie apprenticeship to their training programs.

by federal, state and territory skills ministers.

Each state and territory will now consider adding the apprenticeship to their training programs, with existing Commonwealth funding for apprenticeships and training flowing as soon as they do.

The idea was first floated to industry in a consultation paper by Australian Industry Standards back in September and received resounding support.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said any new national trucking apprenticeship was a critical step to address a potential shortfall in the trucking workforce while meeting supply chain needs.

“Securing Australia’s economic recovery relies on the thousands of men and women driving trucks right around our country every single day,” the Prime Minister said.

“Our trucking sector drives our economy and there couldn’t be a more important job than getting food on the table to millions of families or delivering Covid-19 vaccines to doctors, hospitals and pharmacies right around Australia.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison gets a tour around John West Logistics on the day of the apprenticeship announcement.

“Right now, we have a record number of trade apprentices in place with over 220,000 Australians training for new job opportunities.”

Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business Stuart Robert said the new trucking apprenticeship was an example of the Morrison government’s commitment to driving new opportunities for Australians to take

control of their careers and get ahead through skilling.

“The new trucking apprenticeships come at a time when the government is delivering record amounts of support to apprentices and trainees, which has seen hundreds of thousands of Australians upskilling or reskilling thanks to JobTrainer, TAFE funding and apprenticeship funding,” Minister Robert said.

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“In delivering an additional pathway to get skilled and keeping our economy going, today’s announcement is further confirmation the Morrison government is the best friend an apprentice has ever had.

“The Morrison government will spend a record $7.1 billion this year alone on skills and training, delivering real apprenticeships.”

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Critics say the PM doesn’t have truckies’ best interests at heart.

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the new apprentice pathway would help lift the professionalism of the transport industry and attract new workers.

“The transport industry is the lifeblood that keeps Australia moving and supplied, Australia stops without our hard-working truck drivers, it is as simple as that,” Assistant Minister Buchholz said.

“Truck driving is about more than just changing gears and unloading, by providing a national driver training framework, our future truck drivers will have an advanced competency across the profession, such as load constraints, transporting dangerous goods and pre-departure inspection.

“This is a new approach to ensuring our transport industry has the workforce of the future and provides young Australians

with the opportunity to have a career, not just a job – in a rewarding industry.

“The Commonwealth led the nation on this, and we will continue to work with state and territories skills ministers to ensure they step up to roll out this new and exciting apprenticeship pathway for the next generation of professional, Australian truck drivers.”

The Transport and Logistics Industry Reference Committee finalised updates to the Certificate III in Driving Operations and the nationally agreed enhancements have been recommended for delivery as an apprenticeship, subject to states and territories’ agreement.

The Transport Workers’ Union said it welcomed new pathways for young and under-represented workers to join the industry, as highlighted by the Glenn Sterle-led Senate inquiry report released last August.

But the union also took the Morrison government to task for failing to address the many supply chain issues before inviting young people to join Australia’s “deadliest” industry.

TWU assistant national secretary Nick McIntosh said this is the first truckies have heard from Morrison on the supply chain pressures they’ve faced throughout the pandemic, despite numerous letters to his office.

“Morrison is picking and choosing the easiest recommendation of an extensive Senate report to suit his election campaign while refusing to fix the crisis in trucking,” said McIntosh.

“An apprenticeship scheme won’t work if it simply asks young people to jump into the graves of truckies killed, only to face the same deadly pressures as their predecessors.

“There wouldn’t be a driver shortage if there wasn’t such a deficit of decent work, proper consultation, and reform to address the Amazon Effect of cost-cutting and deadly exploitation in trucking supply chains.”

Former truckie, now WA Senator Glenn Sterle said the government “doesn’t give a damn” about truck drivers, as evidenced by Morrison’s refusal to acknowledge any of the many pressing industry issues in the Senate report.

“And now, this lame, outof-touch Prime Minister wants a pat on the back for announcing apprenticeships without even talking to the transport industry or state governments?

“A total fake and farce,” said Sterle.

“The sooner he is thrown out the better.”

Senator Glenn Sterle said the PM is dodging the big issues.

Readers respond

Tony Stephens I wait in anticipation to see who designs the course, what subjects and topics contains, who implements the training and how many companies will rort the system and what sort of wages the apprentices will get paid while doing the same work as fully-fledged drivers and warehouse staff.

Glenn Piper Well, if we have apprenticeships, that must mean we are recognised as a skilled trade instead of unskilled labour, which means existing drivers should get recognition of prior learning and a trade qualification, high hourly rates for everyone and the applicable penalty rates and shift allowances.

Michael Borg It’s easy let the teenagers go with their dads mums or however all this OHS has destroyed any chance of the new up and coming drivers learning with professionals like a lot of us did back when life was normal, most of us new how to load chain and rope down loads tarp way before legally allowed to drive one.

Missy Taylor-Bryce So they get a little training, get licenced then sent out on the road for the next 2 years working for $20ph until their apprenticeship is over? Sounds about right. A lot of employers are actually doing this already but actually paying a wage while upskilling new drivers. Typical

govt feeding off the ideas of others and claiming as their own.

Karl Jagger As a kid I went trucking and got the bug, trucking was a way of life, being on the open road, seeing places, comradeship. Now it a job , get your Mc after a day. No training on log book, load restraint. Weight distribution. Some of the facilities we have to use are just dirty.

No body gives a stuff for truck drivers. They say you should get 8 hours sleep a night, good luck with that.i would not recommend any young person to get into the industry until things change.

Christopher Blanchard I have been saying for years if they ever made it a trade year 1 should be automotive year 1 so they have some understand of the machinery that is underneath them.

I can see this becoming a SNAFU though.

Theresa Scott It could work but I can see a lot of ways that people could take advantage of people wanting to get into the industry and will it then become mandatory to have this certification to be a truckie in the future especially making it harder to become a truck driver? I’m still yet to hear about the training package WA put together for people to get up skilled into roadtrains. $6.1 million was given for that and never heard any more about it.

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6 NEWS

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Operators frustrated by OSOM permit delays

BY TRENT PRICE

OVERSIZE, Overmass (OSOM) permit turnaround times have become critically slow, according to one Melbourne logistics operator.

Sean Caulfield, who runs Delcom Haulage, says as a Tier 1 contractor, trying to undertake jobs legally has become an issue in terms of OSOM permit turnaround times.

“It’s not so bad interstate. It’s more for the local metro areas,” said Caulfield.

“Around our Melbourne metro areas, we’re restricted to 3 metres wide and 4.3 metres high. Anything over that we’re having a lot of trouble getting permits.”

Caulfield says it can take up to 28 days from application in the NHVR portal before he can even expect to receive a response.

“If I’ve got external customers calling me up that want to get plants moved, we basically have to say no. It’s really starting to hurt our bottom line.”

Caulfield explained that Victorian applications used to be handled by the VicRoads permit department for Melbourne metropolitan areas, whereas now the NHVR is dealing with all of the permits Australia-wide (with the exception of the Northern Territory

Readers around Australia report interminable delays when it comes to oversize permit applications.

and Western Australia).

“You enter a queue. Sometimes it can take 4 or 5 days just to get from the NHVR to VicRoads and then they won’t really want to talk to you at all until VicRoads have had it for 28 days. It used to only take a day to get a permit,” said Caulfield.

“The problem is we have a lot of really big government projects for level crossing re-

movals and we’re waiting a month to move stuff around.”

Caulfield said the lengthy turnaround time was forcing some transport and logistics operators to run the gauntlet and take their chances without permits just to keep money coming in.

“People will break the rules anyway,” said Caulfield.

“Unfortunately, we can’t do that, because if something goes

wrong you’ve got no insurance.

Chain of Responsibility is a serious issue.

“I totally understand the process, but it’s just a terrible system.”

Readers were quick to agree with Caulfield when we first published his story at bigrigs. com.au, with many also highlighting similar problems in other jurisdictions.

Ricky Marshall said he used

to get a permit for a 7-line and dolly, 30m long, 4.5m wide, and 149t the same day as application through the City of Sydney, the next day at the latest.

“You’d also be able to negotiate details to get it through no problem as long as changes got highlighted on the permit,” he writes on Facebook.

“Now if any detail is changed the whole process has to start again, which can go

anything up to six weeks.

“It’s incompetent staff just following guidelines and not experienced enough or allowed to make decisions based on realistic information.

“You speak to RMS staff on weighbridges and they’re not interested. They say that the system has gone to ruin, with the NHVR making changes to rules and regulations and not passing on new changes to officers, leaving them scratching their heads when you quote said changes.

“No one’s working together anymore, and permit delays are ridiculously slow.”

A spokesperson for the NHVR told Big Rigs that in 2021 the average end-to-end turnaround time for OSOM permits was 11.5 calendar days – a reduction from 13.3 calendar days in 2020.

The regulator said it been able to reduce turnaround times for processing OSOM permits from an average of 2.3 calendar days in 2020 to 1.7 days in 2021.

An OSOM vehicle operating without a permit is assessed from the statutory mass and dimension requirements. A severe risk mass contravention has a maximum court-imposed penalty of between $11,490 and $22,790, while a severe risk dimension contravention has a maximum court-imposed penalty of $11,490.

Tippers’ lobby group scores win for Victorian drivers

BY TRENT PRICE

VICTORIAN Tippers United (VTU) spokesman Luke McCrone says owner-drivers in the state have made progress on minimum rates arrangements with plant operators.

Earlier last year McCrone alleged that Victoria’s minimum mandatory hourly rates for various types of tipper trucks was under threat because a large plant hire group was exploiting a loophole to win government job contracts.

The company in question, which could not be named for legal reasons, allegedly undercut its rivals by offering to pay the required rate if its drivers agreed to join a subcontractor services club, for a voluntary charge of $6.38 per hour, which gave them priority on all major projects.

McCrone said the Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC) found there wasn’t any public sector corruption involved because, whilst the

projects were government funded, the builder who engaged the plant-hire companies could not be considered as a public sector entity.

“It’s a bit more at arm’s length from public money,” said McCrone.

“Corruption in the public service is what IBAC are interested in looking at.”

McCrone, however, said that the Victorian state government has undertaken a review into the minimum rates arrangements to avoid poten-

tial ‘kickback’ scenarios.

With Victoria and much of the country emerging from lockdown, McCrone said the world had moved on and it was time to act.

“The VTU has been trying for some time to get a big enough group of drivers behind us where we can go to plant hirers and negotiate a collective owner-driver agreement,” he said.

“Within a week of us doing that, they all started to lift their rates. We’ve seen rates

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go up between 10 to 15 per cent, depending on the plant hirer.”

While McCrone acknowledges the response from plant hirers might also reflect the state of the market, he believes the influence of the VTU can’t be underestimated.

“I think the nudge from us gave the hirers the push. Rates haven’t moved since 2014,” McCrone said.

“In 2014 rates were around $75 per hour, where now the lowest rates we’ve seen are be-

tween $80 to $89 per hour.

The government rate is $91 dollars per hour so with minimal difference there’s no incentive for a commission.”

McCrone said the VTU will continue to push for further condition changes, including an annual rate review mechanism, additional money for working on weekends, clarification on penalties for working at night, extra money for carting rocks and minimum arrangements on contract rates.

OPINION 7

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Testing times for truckies

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

FOR a few glorious hours it looked like the Covid testing madness for truckies might actually be turning a corner.

Queensland announced that PCR testing was no longer required to obtain an F Pass into the state, and then joined NSW in also relaxing rules around the need to isolate if you were a close contact. But no sooner could you say Novak Djokovic and any illusion that the Morrison government might actually have the freight industry’s best interests at heart was smashed into oblivion.

Freight-friendly PCR testing clinics were packing up, leaving truckies with nowhere to stop before getting to the WA border where PCR tests are still mandatory.

And elsewhere, the once-derided rapid antigen tests, were becoming increasingly expensive and hard to get. Not only that, as we were going to print for this issue, to add insult to injury, we now hear that pollies are able to get the kits for free.

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AdBlues for truckies at bowser

Hope for better rest areas in 2022

BIG RIGS’ story on the ACCC’s decision to allow manufacturers and other industry stakeholders to collaborate on arrangements for the supply of AdBlue more than raised the eyebrows of our readers.

On Facebook, Michael Cramp said the ACCC was “nothing but a toothless pussycat. They could do the same for fuel prices but won’t coz they have no powers.”

Nick Bennetto offered a wholesale fix, saying that the government should “just legislate an AdBlue Delete on Engines and let the OEMs do the test.”

Joel Bee asked, “What are they doing about the fact China has cut us off and they supply the bulk of the product and all our past and present politicians have put all of our eggs in the China basket?”

PROLIFIC road transport advocate, Rod Hannifey believes there may some light at the end of the tunnel for a national Rest Area Strategy, but there is still no mandate, legal requirements or even council rules to ensure they are built or even included in any road building or realignments.

Reader Warren Bryce believes there’s too many stops in some areas and not enough on others, writing on Facebook that “The stupid part is between Dingo and Duaringa, on the Capricorn hwy, a distance of 37km, there are 3 toilet blocks plus roadhouses each side.

Overkill or what.”

“About time they support the backbone of Australia,” added Mark Lewis.

Truckies reacted to low stocks and high prices at the bowsers.

Rest area advocate Rod Hannifey is hopeful of improvements.

Tiaro turbulence over new design

Praise for young Shane Blackshaw

A CONCEPT design for the Tiaro Bypass near Gympie, Queensland drew the interest of the Big Rigs’ Facebook community, with many welcoming the plan, but wary of the outcomes.

Bill Shanahan believes the money would be better spent on reprogramming light sequences, saying, “if they programmed the Tiaro lights to make pedestrians wait for a while and give traffic a chance to flow a bit it would be better.”

Bob Johnson offered a more cynical perspective, asking if they are “going to construct it out of potholes just like the Bruce highway.”

“Do the rest of the towns on the Bruce Highway,” added Aron Valinoti.

OUR career profile on 24-year-old Shane Blackshaw garnered plenty of interest on Facebook, with many pundits applauding the Toowoomba native on his early achievements.

Garry Gartner called Shane an “inspiration to all young truckers”, while Robert Manago said “Good on ya buddy … Days work just doing the tarps ..I’d need a sleep after that !”

John Stewart was sightly envious, admitting the article brought him back to his glory days, adding, “I did a bit in the mid 90s and the 2012s and loved every minute of it. To old now but love to see the pictures.”

“I’m so envious,” added John Stewart. “I did a bit in the mid-90s and the 2012s and loved every minute of it.

Love to see the pictures.”

The concept design for the Tiara Bypass near Gympie, Qld.

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FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Josh’s tip-top tow trucks turn heads

BY DAVID VILE

WITH Covid restrictions lifted after weeks of lockdowns in Victoria, some sense of normality returned to the community, and one of the most popular truck shows in the state was back on the calendar with a large contingent of trucks and visitors to the Castlemaine Rotary Truck Show.

Making up part of the late November parade from the town centre through to the truck show and family day at the Campbells Creek Reserve was Castlemaine local Josh Parsons, who had three of the family’s tow trucks on show in the late spring sunshine.

With three generations of family members in the business, the Parsons Motor and Body Shop has had a presence in Castlemaine since 1975, undertaking a full range of mechanical servicing, panel beating, repairs and spray-painting of cars and trucks.

With a total of six recovery trucks in the fleet, Parsons’ pride and joy, a tri-axle Freightliner Coronado was accompanied by a Kenworth T604 and one to the company’s four tilttrays, an Iveco Stralis.

“It’s a 2015 Coronado and the Kenworth 17 is years old, and we have built them up…

Josh Parsons’s pride and joy, the Freightliner Coronado on show at Campbells Creek.

Josh Parsons with his beloved Coronado. Photos: David Vile

The Freightliner has a Detroit while there’s a Cat C15 in the Kenworth. We run an Ekebol wrecker on one and a Century on the other,” explained Parsons.

Both trucks are fitted out to handle the full range of truck towing and recovery work, with the Kenworth rated at around 98 tonnes, and with the triaxle on the Freightliner it is rated to 130 tonnes.

from home base.

“We do a fair bit around Bendigo, we go towards Melbourne for a lot of breakdowns, and we service up to Mildura and out Swan Hill way also… there’s usually enough for us to do. If it’s a bit quiet we will jump in one of the tilt trays and go and shift a few cars,” said Parsons.

As one of 15 staff in the business, Josh Parsons did his apprenticeship as a mechanic, doing his time firstly working in and then running the workshop for about a year and a half, before taking on the job driving the Freightliner.

Needless to say, keeping the fleet well-presented goes with the role and all three Parsons’ trucks on show were turned out to a high standard, with both Josh Parsons and the Coronado previously tasting success at the 2018 event, taking out the best-presented Tow Truck award.

As is the case with a lot of towing vehicles the Parsons’ paint-scheme is a head turner, with the green-and white colours prominent across the fleet.

The Parsons’ fleet is diverse allowing the company to tackle the full range of recovery jobs with the company working in co-operation with a number of other truck repairers and agencies.

“We have the four tilt trays for mechanical and smash recovery, and we also have a float for recovery of trucks that might be burnt out and so forth,” he detailed.

“We did have three, but we cut back to two which has made it a bit easier. We had a Freightliner before building this one up, it would be nice to keep them all but there’s a lot of money tied up in them.”

With its relatively close proximity to Melbourne, and the larger centres of Bendigo and Ballarat, the tow fleet is put to work across a wide part of the state in all directions

Three of the Parsons’ fleet: the Kenworth T604, Coronado and Iveco Stralis sparkle in the spring sunshine.

“The paint scheme was designed when getting the Kenworth done and the signwriter did an awesome job, the truck is 17-years-old and looks like it has just been done, it’s still pretty spot-on….it’s all airbrushed and not just been done with stickers,” he said.

The show was a good opportunity for the community to again embrace the truck show which has been a mainstay of the Castlemaine Rotary Club for a number of years.

“We took the trucks in the parade this morning. It’s good now we are getting over Covid somewhat and we are able to get the truck back out and everyone around again, it’s a good atmosphere,” added Parsons.

For the time being, Parsons is happy behind the wheel of the Coronado ready to head off in a minutes notice on another salvage job.

“It’s better than being stuck in the shed all the time, to get out and help out our customers and go where you have to go.

You see a few things you don’t get to see every day, that’s the best part of the job.”

Recall notices for UD Quon, Actros and Kenworth trucks VOLVO Group Australia is recalling 666 Quons over an issue with the Central Chassis Input Output Module (CCIOM).

Due to improper programming water may condense in the air brake tanks and/or trailer brake circuits, advises the notice issued by the government regulator.

The condensed water in the trailer brake circuits may become frozen, which could disable the main brake or cause a vehicle fire.

“A loss expected braking performance, or a vehicle fire could increase the risk of an accident causing injury or death to vehicle occupants or other road users,” the notice added.

The recall impacts model year 2021 Quon pPNLT,

Euro5 and Euro6 trucks.

Owners of affected vehicles can contact their nearest authorised Volvo Group Australia repairing dealer to schedule an appointment to have their vehicle/s repaired at no cost.

In another notice issued late last year, PACCAR Australia is recalling 906 Kenworths in the year range of 2020-21 due to the fact the upper yoke attached to the steering column may not be fully inserted.

“If the yoke joint becomes loose the steering shaft may detach resulting in a loss of steering,” the notice warned.

The variants impacted are: C509 – 6×4,8×6; T359 – 4×2,6×4,8×4,10×6; T360 – 4×2,6×4,8×4,10×6; T409 – 6×4,8×4,10×6; T410 – 4×2,6×4,8×4,8×6,10×6; T610

– 6×4,8×4,10×6; T659 – 6×4,8×4,8×6,10×6; and T900 – 6×4, T909 – 6×4,8×4.

Owners can contact their nearest PACCAR Australia Kenworth dealer to arrange for a technician to inspect and repair the vehicle at no cost.

Daimler Truck and Bus is also recalling 124 units of its Mercedes-Benz Actros 2021 due to a manufacturing issue with the upper steering shaft.

“If the vehicle continues to be operated under this condition, the steering connection may fracture which could result in loss of power steering,” said the notice.

“Owners of affected vehicles can contact their authorised Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicle Dealership to have the work carried out, free of charge.”

Almost 700 Quons are being recalled over an issue with the Central Chassis Input Output Module (CCIOM).

NEWS 11

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Veteran WA truckie lucky to escape serious injury

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

OUTBACK truckie Michael ‘Kingy’ King has opened up about the growing issue of trucks being vandalised and stoned in north-western WA after he was recently set upon by a group of thugs.

Kingy, 64, runs a chemical carting business in Port Hedland called Faststar Holdings, transporting liquid chemicals

including sulphuric acid, caustic and hydrochloric to mine sites and remote communities; as well as containers of flocculant from Perth up to Pilbara.

His work means he is on the road for long stretches, travelling some of the toughest routes, from behind the wheel of his 2000 model Kenworth T950.

After being away for three weeks, on a Sunday in December, Kingy was travelling

through Kununurra on his way back home to Geraldton, when a group of youths ran out in front of his truck in an effort to make him stop.

“A big storm had come in and I was travelling south and at some distance down the road I noticed quite a few kids had crossed over the road – I reckon they would’ve been about 1314 years old,” said Kingy.

“As I got a bit closer, I was still down to only 45-50km/h.

Michael King says the issue of trucks being vandalised in parts of north-western WA has gotten worse in recent years.

It was bucketing down so they were in the rain and playing with water.

“Then three of them came running out in front of the truck, I heavily braked to miss those three. When I slowed down, they got off the road, then there were about three more kids down the road who pelted me with missiles.”

Two objects hit the windscreen and another hit the glass on the sleeper bunk and completely shattered it.

“If you threw a rock at the windshield, which is a laminated piece of glass, it would mark the glass but wouldn’t likely shatter it. This impaled the glass and shattered the windscreen, but didn’t break the lamination. It was a piece of steel, I can’t see a rock doing the amount of damage that was done,” explained Kingy.

Kingy was lucky to escape with only minor cuts. He tried calling the nearest police station but says that since Covid hit, it only operates during office hours. The incident happened at around 5.15pm.

“I had glass all over me. I dialled triple 000 and highlighted it wasn’t a life-threatening

This is some of the damage caused to the windscreen during the recent incident in Kununurra.

situation but this was what had happened, that my truck had been stoned by these kids, and I got run around in circles. It got so frustrating.”

He headed to the nearest roadhouse, around 120 kilometres away, had a shower and cleaned up the truck. “When I went to get into bed, I felt something biting into my back – it was glass, that’s how far the glass went in the cabin.”

The sad reality is that this ordeal isn’t an isolated one, with far too many truckies being targeted.

“It’s actually been happening in a lot of places over here; but the main three towns where it’s become a widespread issue are

Fitzroy Crossing, Halls Creek and Kununurra,” said Kingy.

The issue has become so bad that Kingy avoids driving through these areas at night wherever possible.

“We won’t go through Fitzroy Crossing at night-time, and we don’t sleep anywhere near these towns.

“Some of these truckies are getting a sheet of cardboard to cover their side windows, because those windows will just shatter, they aren’t laminated like the windscreen.

“It’s got to a point now that truckies are timing all of their runs in the middle of day when it gets to 35-40 degrees as less people are out.”

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12 COVER STORY

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Ringing in the new year in style

For well-known outback truckie Danyelle Haigh, 2022 is shaping up to be another busy and very exciting year.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI DANYELLE Haigh has kicked off the new year with a new pink truck, a new home in a new state and a new business she plans to launch with her truckie husband Anthony Haigh.

Danyelle and Anthony run Murranji Water Drilling, which takes them and their two sons, seven-year-old Heath and two-year-old Theo, to some of the most remote locations Australia has to offer.

The husband-and-wife team has become quite well known in the world of trucking thanks to both their hard work and their regular appearances on popular television series Outback Truckers.

The family’s move in December from the town of Al-

lora in the Southern Downs Region of Queensland to a new property near Alice Springs will give them the opportunity to launch a new business, alongside positioning them in a more central location for their successful (and very busy) water boring business.

Their new home at the 2100-hectare Territory Grape Farm is located in the Ti Tree region, around 150km north of Alice Springs. “Moving closer to Alice Springs puts us closer to the Barkly and Katherine, which is where we do most of our drilling,” said Danyelle.

“We will also be producing hay and crops, so will be carting hay too on top of Murranji Water Drilling. “This year will be a trial run so we can see how we go,” Haigh said.

“The place we’re moving

Danyelle and Anthony Haigh with sons, two-year-old Theo and seven-year-old Heath.

Danyelle Haigh says the Super-Liner is her “dream truck”.

to used to grow grapes, watermelons and lemons, but it’s pretty run down, so we’re researching so we can decide what the property will have in store for us.”

The desert oasis was put on the market in early 2020 by Northern Territory pastoralists Roy and Janet Chisholm, as well as their recently sold Ooloo Farm.

Along with plans to establish crops, Danyelle says there are also plans to establish a caravan park at the site, which she expects to have up and running as early as March. Accommodation would be available for around 100 people, across 20 dongas, as well as powered caravan sites.

The property also has a 2000-megalitre water licence too – a big drawcard as Danyelle and Anthony con-

The Territory Grape Farm in Northern Territory is the family’s new home.

tinue their water drilling operation.

With constant border changes over the last two years as the country navigates through a pandemic, the family barely got to go home – with fear of being stuck if new border restrictions come into play. So, the time was right for a change. Though Danyelle admits it was quite emotional to have to say goodbye to the family’s Queensland home.

“I didn’t think it would be this hard to leave behind our family home. I’ve just gotta keep thinking of the future and the next journey we are going to create together.”

As well as a new home in a new state, Danyelle purchased her dream truck late last year.

And in fact, its maiden voyage was from the family’s previous home to their new one.

The 2015 Mack Super-Liner has been spruced up with new paintwork to suit Danyelle’s vision.

“I’ve always wanted a Mack, I can’t even remember for how long. I grew an obsession with Macks. And it’s pink. But it’s an auto, so that’s totally different for me as well, I’ve been driving manual ever since I started in road trains, so I still keep reaching for that gear stick,” she said.

Mirror Finish [MFS] was entrusted with the new paintwork. So, was Danyelle happy with the result? “Shit yeah – absolutely!” she said.

“Mirror Finish painted Anthony’s truck in white after they were recommended to us.

He did such a good job on our other truck so we got him to do this one too. I didn’t know what he was going to with it,

The couple plans to establish crops, as well as a caravan park at the 2100-hectare site.

just told him what I didn’t want – I didn’t want the whole truck in pink – and he just did it.”

Since hitting the road, Danyelle says the truck’s vibrant pink colour scheme has been drawing a lot of attention. “On its first trip, I reckon I was called up about 30 times.

A few people are asking if they can get photos with it too,” she said.

Prior to the couple taking over Murranji Water Drilling in 2014, Danyelle was a nurse, while Anthony – whose father was also a truckie – has been driving trucks since he was in his teens.

Since making the switch to trucking, Danyelle says she wouldn’t have it any other way – their lives have been one massive (and busy) adventure. And the kids love it too – they love the travel and are happy to get their hands dirty.

“They love my new truck and fight over who is coming with me. They think it’s pretty cool that mum’s a truck driver,” Danyelle added.

“The kids have been so excited about the move that the pair of them have been waking at daylight every morning and not stopping until their heads hit the pillow at night. Heath rode in the truck with me for the majority of the trip and I reckon I was asked in excess of 100 times ‘are we there yet?’

“It was pretty hectic last year.

It was just myself, Anthony and the governess. Usually I’d share the driving with someone else that we employ but this year I’ll be driving full-time.”

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FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

SEQ Heavy Vehicle Repairs stays on the move

A local, family owned mechanical business, SEQ Heavy Vehicle Repairs & Maintenance has a firm focus on employing highly qualified staff, and offering its customers affordable rates and awesome service.

Based in the Ipswich region, SEQ Heavy Vehicle Repairs & Maintenance services areas in Queensland that include Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich and the surrounding areas.

Having just celebrated its second birthday, the business was established in January 2020 as a mobile heavy vehicle mechanic, with just one mechanic, Jake Gallagher, who owns and founded the business.

A fully qualified heavy vehicle mechanic, Gallagher has over 11 years of experience on all types of trucks and trailers, and is ready to help customers with all of their repairs and maintenance needs.

THE OPENING OF AN ONSITE WORKSHOP IN ARCHERFIELD, BRISBANE, MEANS SEQ HEAVY VEHICLE REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE CAN OFFER A FULL AND COMPLETE RANGE OF SERVICES, WITH NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL.” Gallagher had spent several years working in a role centred around in-house fleet maintenance for a truck and machinery company.

When the business he was working for was looking to wind up its workshop, Gallagher saw this as a perfect opportunity to venture out on his own – and with that his new business, SEQ Heavy Vehicle Repairs & Maintenance, was born.

Jake Gallagher, who runs the business, has over 11 years of experience on all types of trucks and trailers.

From general servicing and repairs, to engine rebuilds, as well as a 24/7 emergency breakdown service, SEQ Heavy Vehicle Repairs & Maintenance has it all covered.

Gallagher’s wife and SEQ administration officer, Leah Gallagher, says that SEQ Heavy Vehicle Repairs & Maintenance is always willing to go the extra mile.

“What sets SEQ apart is Jake’s willingness to help.

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Since he decided to go out on his own, it’s been a great success,” she said.

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NEWS 15

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Brands finish year on sales high

1326_TQ_BigRigs_1/4Page_Verticle_129x188_JAN_2022

SALES of Australian trucks and heavy vans in 2021 fell just 225 units short of the previous best tally set in 2018.

According to the T-Mark data from the Trucking Industry Council (TIC), there were 41,404 units sold, up a massive 6928 vehicles, or 20.1 per cent, over 2020 sales.

The TIC points out, however, that there are some major differences in the segment totals that make up those numbers.

In 2018, the market was very much driven by the sale of heavy-duty trucks. In 2021, that Kenworth-led sector was much weaker, said the TIC. Rather, sales were driven by light trucks and vans last year, up by more than 10 per cent on the 2018 total, due to the boom in online shopping and home deliveries.

Heavy truck sales in 2021 were almost 10 per cent lower than in 2018, as were medium truck sales, a factor the TIC contributes to a combination of supply chain issues and a lack of confidence in the economic climate.

“The past few weeks have again highlighted that the road ahead is neither clear, nor cer-

Mercedes-Benz Trucks said sales were so strong that it passed the milestone with one month to spare.

tain,” said TIC CEO Tony McMullan.

“Covid remains an issue that we need to continue to live with and manage. For TIC members, domestic and global supply chain issues look to be the greatest threat to new truck and van supply over the next 24 months.

“This situation will not be resolved quickly and whilst the federal government’s financial incentives remain in place for over a year, TIC requests that government consider extending the ‘delivery to market’ phase of these incentives, thus allowing

new trucks to be delivered into service for a period of one year, beyond the current deadline of June 2023.”

In the Kenworth-dominated heavy-duty sector, however, there was still plenty to celebrate.

Mercedes-Benz, for one, recorded its best ever sales in Australia in 2021.

Led by the Actros and Arocs heavy-duty haulers, Mercedes-Benz Trucks set a new high mark of 1290, breaking the previous record of 1189, said a media statement from Daimler Truck and Bus.

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Sales were so strong that Mercedes-Benz Trucks passed the milestone with one month to spare.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks Australia Pacific Director, Andrew Assimo, says the sales result is a reflection of the total value and performance of its heavy-duty trucks.

“Mercedes-Benz trucks are in higher demand than ever as more operators experience the comfort and refinement, long service intervals, legendary fuel economy and exceptional performance of the Actros and Arocs models,” said Assimo.

“Ever since we introduced the Euro 6 Actros in 2016, owners have discovered for themselves the total cost savings delivered by our trucks and the benefits of the class-leading support packages that back them.”

MAN Truck & Bus was also celebrating its best year in over a decade, finishing 2021 just shy of 400 truck sales.

The all-round TGS 26.540 model in a 6x4 configuration proved to be the most popular of the MAN stable, closely followed by the TGX 540/580/640 hp range.

“With a highly-adaptable portfolio that boasts low total cost of ownership, quiet and ergonomic cabin environments, and innovative safety and efficiency features all underpinned by advanced German engineering, MAN’s superior offering is second to none,” said Sergio Carboni, national sales manager – MAN, Penske Australia.

At the top end of the heavy-duty table, Kenworth finished with 2838 sales, well clear of runner-up Volvo on 1683 and third-place Isuzu with 1515. Isuzu also won the overall race with 10,175 sales.

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We are unfortunately experiencing shipping delays which means some products may not be in store on the advertised on-sale date. We are trying our best to limit these delays and at the time of publishing, advertised product sale dates are correct; however, they are subject to change due to factors outside our control.

58

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EXTENSIVE DEALER NETWORK

Prices herein are recommended selling prices, inclusive of GST. Recommended selling prices are a guide only and there is no obligation for Dealers to comply with these recommendations. Freight charges may apply. All items have been included in good faith on the basis that goods will be available at the time of sale. Prices and promotions are available at participating Dealers from 7 to 31 January 2022 or while stocks last.

* Calls from Australian landlines are generally free of charge whilst calls from mobile phones are typically charged based on the rate determined by the caller’s mobile service provider. Please check with your mobile service provider for call rates.

18 TEST DRIVE

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

A good all-rounder for tech-savvy owners

Truckie Warren Caves grabs the keys to a new Hino 700-series FS 2848 truck and dog trailer combo for a spin south from Hino’s Sydney HQ.

The test truck was loaded to a gross weight of 38.5-tonnes to evaluate the performance of the 13-litre, 480hp, E13C engine married to a ZF TraXon, 16-speed AMT. Photos: Warren Caves

SAFER-CLEANER-CONNECTED is the marketing catchphrase for Hino’s all new 700-series.

Big Rigs set about testing these claims by taking a 700-series FS 2848 truck and dog trailer combination, loaded with sandstone, for a spin from Hino’s Sydney headquarters down to the Illawarra region south of Sydney via the arduous Mt. Ousley.

Safer: It would be hard to argue with that claim. Pre-collision systems (PCS) including Active Emergency Braking (AEB), Pedestrian Detection (PD), and Safety Eye, driver monitoring system, combine with Lane Departure warning System (LDWS), Vehicle Stability control (VSC) and Electronic Braking Systems (EBS) to offer class leading safety.

Cleaner: With Euro6 compliance, the all new 700-series is Hino’s cleanest heavy- duty offering yet.

Connected: Hino Connect system is fitted standard to all new 700-series models, offering advanced business management telematics to include, remote, real-time performance data and fault diagnosis, driver performance and fatigue monitoring via the driver monitor mounted within the A-pillar.

The test truck was loaded to a gross weight of 38.5-tonnes to evaluate the performance of the 13-litre, 480hp, E13C engine married to a ZF TraXon, 16-speed AMT. Entering the cab is a secure procedure with the door

opening widely to reveal a three-step staircase aided by sensibly positioned grab handles. At this point, dropping into the ISRI driver’s seat sets you up for a comfortable drive. The tilt and telescopic steering column provide further personalisation of the driving position.

To get things moving, it’s simply a matter of using the rotary dial selector located to the left of the steering column to engage the required gear and the whole show is in motion. A mode button also located in the centre dash area, is selectable with three transmission mode options, STD, ECO or Power.

The cab is well laid out with all commonly used functions and buttons falling easily to hand.

Complementing these options is a manual control paddle located on the underside of the steering column, allowing full manual control of the gear selections.

The cab is well laid out with all commonly used functions and buttons falling easily to hand, either on the steering wheel or within the wrap around centre dash area.

A small day-bed is available and there is a small seat, available for a second passenger, albeit a small one.

Forward vision is excellent through the large windscreen and unobstructive narrow A-pillars. Aiding this vision are the sizeable wing mirrors offering full electric adjustment for both sides as well

as heating. The mirror positioned on the front left side of the windscreen offers an elevated frontal view to obstacles directly in front of the truck.

Ride quality is quite good, although the shorter wheel base for this combination in comparison to the FR rigid I recently tested, did add a little more pitching.

However, the four-point air bag cab suspension yields a ride quality more akin to a Euro truck.

As expected, in ECO mode the transmission reacted too lazily for the weight on board, so I promptly switched to std or power mode for the majority of the test drive. With that done the engine/transmission marriage was pleasantly harmonious, sensibly matching

ratios with the optimal engine rev range to see the 480hp engine perform its duties without complaint.

When prompted to do so the engine would freely rev out to 2000rpm to get things motivated before upshifting.

This saw the lion’s share of the work being performed at around 14-1700rpm, which seemed to be the ‘sweet spot’.

The test truck boasted a 13-litre, 480hp, E13C engine married to a ZF TraXon, 16-speed AMT. For the long steep descent down Mt. Ousley, I pushed the button on the end of the transmission paddle to engage manual mode and then selected 10th gear. I would not alter this gear selection for the whole of the descent, nor did I need

The cab is well laid out with all commonly used functions and buttons falling easily to hand.

to apply the foot/service brake at any time.

I’ll go as far as to say that you cannot beat the ZF transmission and Intarder package in this truck when it comes to negotiating steep descents at heavy weights. The speed retardation irrespective of engine RPM provides a seemingly infinite control of vehicle speed without the need for overrevving or service brake reliance.

In order to maintain the 40km/h descent speed limit, I used the 4-position lever to control the trucks descent. The first position is engine brake only (Jake brake) with the three subsequent potions activating the Intarder.

I found it necessary to only utilise the first three positions, toggling between position two and three to control overrun.

For the entire run down the hill, the engine was spinning between 1700-1900rpm, with the exception of when I gained on a slower truck doing around 30km/h at which point I maintained 10th gear and simply selected the third Intarder position which held a 30km/h speed at a lower 1500rpm engine speed.

Operating costs in terms of brake wear should be drastically reduced thanks to the Intarder system, it is possible (with pre-emptive driving techniques) to bring the vehicle nearly a complete stop from 60km/h without using the service brakes.

Pleasantly, unlike some other brands, the Intarder disengages with the application of the throttle, allowing engagement and disengagement without taking your hands off the steering wheel.

After going down the coast a bit further before turning around, the return run up Mt. Ousley offered a chance to put the 480hp engine to a

considerable test.

Once again, at the bottom of the hill to selected manual mode and proceeded to downshift in line with the incline until the engine and transmission found its optimal operating zone.

This seemed to be around 10th gear for the steepest pinches, where the slowest speed recorded was 30km/h then toggling between 10th and 11th gear for the most part during the ascent.

I downshifted at around 1400rpm which resulted in the tacho jumping back up to around 1700, which seemed to be where it was most willing to work. At 38.5 tonnes the 700-series passed a few loaded B-doubles on the way up without fuss.

The 700-series 2848 is quite the capable performer. The 480hp is adequate for the application tested and would do the same for single trailer applications. While the FS 2848 has a GCM of 63,000kg, I don’t see the sub-500hp rating enticing too many B-double buyers to this model.

If there was one thing that I didn’t like, it was the fact that the maximum speed the cruise control could be set at was 94km/h.

The speedo in the dash reads low at 100km/h, you must accelerate to 106 (on the speedo) to actually be doing 100km/m. If the cruise control is then set at the 106km/h mark referenced by the speedo, it then drops back to 100km/h (on the speedo) 94km/h actual. In highway applications, for me this would be annoying.

In conclusion, the new Hino 700-series is a well-proportioned all-rounder and has a lot to offer tech-savvy owners with an eye on operating costs and a conscience for driver safety.

The return run up Mt. Ousley offered a chance to put the 480hp engine to a considerable test.

20 DRIVER PROFILES

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckin’ In The Outback Ben ‘Bazz’ Barry WHEN Big Rigs chatted with Ben ‘Bazz’ Barry, 42, he had just left the outback town of Camooweal in Queensland and was heading south in the 2017 Kenworth T909 he drives for Scarcella Transport.

Based in Darwin, Bazz grew up on a wheat and sheep farm in Swan Hill, Victoria.

“But I couldn’t live down south anymore, it’s just too cold!”

Like many farm kids, Bazz was driving trucks on the family farm from a very young age. “I’ve always been interested in trucks. Growing up on a farm, I was always around trucks and machinery. I was driving trucks around the farm from as young as eight.

Then as soon as I got my licence, that was it,” he said.

“I went for my truck licence at 18. I was working on a sheep station at the time and because we were in drought, we were carting hay. I got my MC licence soon after.”

Bazz joined Scarcella Transport three years ago and says it’s a great company to work

Brad Cheney

His main run is Darwin to Sydney, carrying everything from mangoes to steel.

for. “I do general freight, with a little bit of express. I travel mainly from Darwin to Sydney, but do the occasional run into Melbourne to pick up steel, and sometimes head into Kununurra too.”

He carts everything from mangoes and steel, to cars and wide loads. “It’s anything and everything,” added Bazz.

“Scarcella is a really good company to work for. They’re

Bazz drives a 2017 Kenworth T909 for Scarcella Transport.

a family company and if you’re good to them, they’ll be good to you too.”

When asked what he loves most about the job, he jokes, “Being my own boss until the boss rings me. They give us general fellas anywhere up to four days to go from Darwin to Sydney, so as long as you meet your deadlines, you’re pretty much left alone. And there’s the freedom that I love too.”

Scarcella does a lot of its maintenance in-house and Bazz says the equipment is top notch. “The truck is really good and well maintained. We carry spare parts too. Being from a farming background, I’m mechanically minded, which helps when you’re out on the road.”

With daylight savings now well upon us, Bazz says it can pose a challenge when travelling from Darwin into the Sydney Markets. “It means you need to work out your times to make sure you’re there before 3am,” said Bazz.

Though he loves his work, the ongoing border situation remains a headache. “Once I got tested and then when I got to the border, I had to go back to Tennant Creek to get another test – because it went from a seven-day testing cycle to a three-day testing cycle without much notice. And because I’m going back into Darwin from Sydney, I still need to home-quarantine – yet I get tested every three days, I’m by myself in the truck and bring all of my own food too.”

WHEN asked how he got into trucks, WA-based truckie Brad Cheney says his story is the same as many in the industry – “I was born and bred into it,” he said.

“My dad was a truck driver when I was born. I was always in the passenger seat at a young age. Dad started teaching me to drive the truck at about age 13, though you can’t do that these days though.”

Now 34, Cheney works for Hawkins Haulage, based in the Perth suburb of Bullsbrook. He’s been there for just over four years and drives a 2006 Kenworth T904. “It’s a good truck. Being a small family company, it’s one truck, one driver all the time, so you get your own truck, set it up and away you go,” he said.

Cheney adds that the work he does is varied and diverse, taking him to all corners of WA and into the Northern Territory too.

“Most of the work is carrying general freight to the mines, but we also do some fridge/freezer work too,” he said.

For Cheney, being able to enjoy some of the most impressive scenery Australia has to offer is one of the job’s many perks. “I love the Aus-

Brad Cheney was born and bred into life as a truckie.

tralian outback, it’s magnificent. We have one of the best outbacks in the world – the landscape, the sunsets.

“My favourite places to travel are Broome and anything past Hedland. It’s just a different sort of scenery up that way. Kununurra is beautiful too – although I’m never there long enough to have a look at everything but I do cruise through slowly and have a look at the town.

“We try to stay on the bitumen and not go off road too much because the roads out here are that rough that they slowly deteriorate the truck.”

When it comes to truck stops, Cheney says BP Wubin

is his favourite place to pull up. “The ladies there make it feel like home. They cook a really good feed and love to have a chat. They lift your spirits up when you have a bit of a bad run.”

Though he loves being on the road, being away from the family is tough. “I have a wife and six kids at home.

She’s definitely the back-bone of the family. The kids all love the trucks. I think at least two of them will get into trucking but it will be a completely different landscape by the time they can come in,” he said.

“On certain runs, my boys can come in the truck with me too, which is a bonus.”

There’s never a dull moment for Cheney with his work taking him to all corners of WA and the NT.

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DRIVER PROFILES 21

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Truckin’ In The Tropics

with Alf Wilson

Craig Wright CRAIG Wright received an early Christmas gift and a complete surprise heading into the new year when told by his boss Nick Roberts that he would be the driver of a brand-new Western Star 6900.

Roberts and his wife Alicyn run rural and outback company NIX Freight which is based at Major’s Creek about 50km from Townsville.

The company took delivery of the flashy Western Star in December and it was picked up by Wright who was happy as a pig in mud when he advised Big Rigs.

Wright was happy to talk about it when he spoke to Big Rigs after cruising up a street in the Townsville suburb of Cranbrook.

Heads had turned when he drove the truck up sleepy Louise Street after taking delivery about noon.

The temperature was high at around 38-degrees and not surprisingly we conducted the interview indoors with the air conditioning struggling to keep the room cool.

Later on, we adjourned to the outside to snap pics of Wright and the truck. It may have been in the suburb of a major city but will soon be a common sight in the outback

including destinations in remote parts of Queensland, the NT and WA. “I was so happy to be given the Western Star and used to drive an old orange coloured 1999 model Western Star and this is a beautiful truck which I will be driving into the Northern Territory and Western Australia carrying general and cattle supplement,” Wright said.

The Western Star is powered by a 600hp Cummins motor with an 18-speed gearbox and Wright just adores it.

“It has much more room inside and is so comfortable and has a huge sleeper box. Having a snooze in it is a wonderful experience,” Wright said.

The 51-year-old Wright has worked for NIX Freight for almost three years and got involved with the “truck bug” from a young age.

“I used to be a passenger in trucks such as a B Model Mack and Volvo driven by my uncle Doug and grandfather William Kyte around Brisbane,” he said.

Wright also enjoys being mentored by Roberts who is well known in the industry and that is not surprising.

Three years ago, highly respected Roberts was induct-

The company took delivery of the flashy Western Star in December.

Craig Wright and the new Western Star which will be a common sight in the outback.

ed into the Truckies’ Hall of Fame around the time he celebrated his 70th birthday in style.

More than 50 guests

which included family and friends from the road transport industry wished Nick “Many Happy Returns of the Day” at his Major’s Creek property Y-Worrie.

That is where NIX Freight’s workshop is and where the company also has four other Western Stars and an excellent well-equipped workshop.

Roberts said the new Star replaced the 2017 Mack Titan which was bought back

by WTG due to contamination found in the motor after causing NIX freight a lot of grief over its time on the road.

NIX Freight employs five drivers, a full-time mechanic, two office staff with Roberts at the helm co-ordinating and organising.

Wright who has been employed as a truckie or in mining all of his working life said NIX Freight was great to work for.

“It is a real family atmosphere and Nick and his mis-

sus treat you really well,” he said.

Roberts was also glowing in his praise of Wright. “He is a very dedicated driver,” Roberts said.

The Western Star had its ‘maiden voyage’ on December 13 into the NT carrying molasses for the feed mills along with fertiliser and dog food.

On his travels so far, Wright said he enjoyed stopping at the Dunmurra Roadhouse in the NT. “The staff are great and the steaks are huge, especially the sirloins. You really feel welcome. I get into WA to places such as Kununurra,” he said.

As for the worst road he travels on, Wright quickly nominated the 100km long stretch of the western Queensland Flinders highway between Hughenden and Richmond.

“It is very rough and I slow down to 25km per hour on the Scrubby Creek section.

Someone is going to do an axle on that part,” he said.

His hobbies are fishing with his grandchildren and playing golf at the Rowes Bay Club in Townsville.

“I am not much good at golf and fish local creeks if I get time,” he said.

Wright said that being away from home a lot on his trips made him realise just how wonderful and special his family are.

“My missus supports me so much and I am very happy – that means when I am driving on the road it is so good to know that,” he said.

Covid-19 has had some effect on Wright in his travels through two states and the NT. “It can be a pain getting across the borders but if you have the correct paperwork it is generally okay. The border police are okay,” he said.

Wright can’t wait for the NRL season start in March and hopes his team the Parramatta Eels do well.

22 READER RIGS

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Reader Rigs proudly supported by

Matt Lockhart shared this shot of Dean Campbell’s T900 Legend ‘Boogie Nights’, taken at the Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show in December.

Share your truck pics to win with Shell Rimula SHELL Rimula has partnered with Big Rigs in a big way – so now there’s even more reasons to send in your best truck shots.

Each month, the Big Rigs team will choose a #PicOfTheMonth, with the lucky winner receiving a $500 Shell Coles Express Gift Card.

Keep an eye out for our regular posts on the Big Rigs National Road Transport Newspaper Facebook page, calling

for your best truck photos and add yours in the comments, or email them to editor@bigrigs. com.au.

Don’t forget to include a brief note about the truck and where the photo was taken. We’ll feature some of the best photos in each edition of Big Rigs Newspaper, with one winner announced each month. Keep those amazing truck pics coming!

Now that’s what you call a big load. Milly Bear snapped this shot of a National Heavy Haulage truck at Nebo Creek, driven by Chris Moon.

Green machine – great shot of this Kenworth T610 SAR shared by Mat Phillips after loading with produce in Epping, Victoria.

Marcus Grigsby carts new season barley into the local receival site at Smeaton, Victoria.

Ben Stamatovich’s Gold edition Titan Mack streaks across the 90 mile straight in WA.

Kyle Nicholas-Benney unloads grain at a feedlot in south-east SA.

Austin Jones shared this shot of the Mack Trident 535hp he drives for Slingo Earthmoving.

Kevin Bemrose sent in this ripper bird’s eye view shot of his Kenworth T909 in Mogumber, WA.

READER RIGS 23

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

When the going gets tough, truckies keep everyone going

Grant Bilby and this tanker set-up admire the scenery, just south of Blackwater coal mine.

Matthew Klitscher snapped this shot in Dimboola, Victoria, at the start of harvest.

David Jones snapped this shot of a Neil Mansell Transport T610SAR set-up, heading southbound at Alice Springs.

A rainbow each for these two Kenworths – great shot shared by Beau Bellerby.

Taylor Bransby shared this shot of two SimRon Transport Kenworth T908s, loaded with hay, taken south-east of Hyden, WA.

Justin Cartwright and this Volvo triple tanker set work on the Suttor Development Road, carting water with Aquaholic Water Cartage on the Adani Rail.

Dylan James says he doesn’t mind the late nights on the road when they look like this. Photo was snapped in Narrogin, WA, when he headed out to preload hay.

Damian Wayne Coster tips fertiliser at a farm near Condobolin, NSW for Harrold Services.

Craig VH shared this snap of three golden-hued trucks all lined up at the Sandfire Roadhouse north of Broome.

Jerome Badger Taylor snapped this shot of the Kenworth T909 triple road train he drives for Gilbert’s Transport Service, taken at the Stuart Highway, Tennant Creek, NT.

24 AD FEATURE KEEP IT COOL

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Fleetguard draws the big picture on truck coolants

THERE’S plenty of confusion in forums these days about the colour of heavy-duty coolants. Does it indicate anything about the chemical make-up of the coolant, or is it just a brand-to-brand thing?

To clear the air about this confusion and help understand the key requirements to ensuring the optimal health of your engine’s cooling system year in, year out, we went to head chemist and coolant expert, Mike Hudson from Cummins Filtration.

First thing’s first, what does coolant do?

Put simply, the role of coolant is to transfer extreme heat generated by the engine, to the radiator, where it is expelled into the environment.

It is then circulated by the water pump, back to the engine, to repeat the same process over and over again.

Coolant also carries with it additives which prevent corrosion and cavitation of the engine and its com-

Nowadays, we can’t rely on the colour to tell us about a coolant’s chemistry or performance.

ponents, as well as providing anti-boil and antifreeze properties.

Can I just use any old coolant?

If a quality coolant is not used, the risks to the engine

include overheating, corrosion and cavitation. These problems can cause critical damage, leading to expensive repairs and equipment downtime, which consequently leads to lost revenue for your business.

What should we look for in a coolant?

First and foremost, choose a good quality coolant from a reputable brand and check that it has been tested to, and meets, a heavy-duty coolant standard. One such internationally recognised standard is the ASTM D6210, and coolants that meet OEM standards are even better. In terms of the coolant’s properties, it should have good heat transfer abilities and a higher boiling point and lower freezing point than water. It should also prevent corrosion and erosion, resist foaming, be compatible with cooling system component materials, be compatible with hard water, resist sedimentation, and be chemically stable. Other considerations include the life of the coolant and its maintenance requirements.

Which colour coolant is best?

The truth is the colour doesn’t mean anything!

In days gone by, the colour of coolant was determined by the types of chemicals used to

prevent corrosion, meaning once upon a time, you could tell a lot about a coolant by its colour.

Older coolants that used Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT) were usually blue or green in colour. These types would normally have to be changed roughly every two years.

There are also coolants which are a blend of IAT and OAT chemicals, and these were therefore named ‘hybrids’ (HAT) and were typically yellow or green; but not always!

Nowadays, we can’t rely on the colour to tell us about a coolant’s chemistry or performance. Coolant marketers and OEM’s have adopted their own tiered approach to differentiate their products, meaning the colour can no longer be used by consumers as a guideline to a coolant’s properties.

For example, PGPlus, a hybrid, lifetime coolant with 250,000km or 4000 hours service intervals, is dark blue in colour.

And PGPlatinum, an organic, lifetime coolant which

requires no service thanks to its superior additive package, is red in colour.

Is there a legal standard for coolant colours?

These days, there’s no legal standard for a coolant manufacturer to use a certain colour, so it’s not easy to know what chemicals are in the coolant just by seeing its colour.

How should coolant be maintained?

Every brand of coolant requires different levels of maintenance. Some coolants, such as Fleetguard’s OAT coolant and PG Platinum are lifetime.

While some coolants are compatible with others, changing the chemical balance in the cooling system can be detrimental to its performance, so mixing different types of coolant is not recommended.

All coolants, no matter the type, colour or brand should be tested twice a year to ensure they are maintaining the correct chemical composition and concentration.

Visit cumminsfiltration. com.au for more.

COOLANT DESIGNED FOR ANY APPLICATION ACROSS THE FLEET GO WITH FLEETGUARD

www.fleetguard.com

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includes 2 x 120AMP batteries & charger * Standard Fitment * Colour matching extra

The NEW Version III Whisper Quiet - Better Cooling

The Koolkat is designed for Larger Sleeper Cabs This unit comes with 2 x auxiliary batteries and a charger which will charge as the truck is driving It works exceptionally well in all weather conditions, dry or humid

National Authorised Installers Truck Art Wagga

Truck Art Melbourne

Hume Truck Technics

Daryl Robertson Auto Niko’s Auto Electrics

15 Lewington St Bomen NSW 2650 02 6926 0400

1 Queen St Wodonga VIC 3690 02 6024 2133

8 Pinnacle Rd Altona North VIC 3025 03 8360 3166 28-30 Dimboola Rd Horsham VIC 3400 03 5381 1532

Truck Art Adelaide

4 Mary St Mawson Lakes SA 5095 08 8262 6399

105 Old Dookie Rd Shepparton VIC 3630 03 5821 3172

MVM Auto Repairs 6/130 Forrester Rd St Marys NSW 2760 02 9833 1900

Briskair

54 Reginald St Rocklea QLD 4106 07 3277 0980

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36 Banksia Rd Welshpool WA 6106 08 6247 9188

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FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

All your cooling needs covered at Natrad HDS

NATRAD Heavy Duty Specialist Group (HDS) is Australia’s largest national network of heavy transport, industrial and automotive heat exchange specialists.

The group is dedicated to addressing the special needs of large industrial customers and offers highly skilled and consistent service Australia-wide. With the ability to support on-highway and off-highway vehicles, earth-moving and mining applications, large transport vehicle fleets, agricultural machinery and large-scale power generators, Natrad HDS is the ideal choice to handle heavy-duty needs.

Natrad HDS workshops have all your cooling needs covered.

Radiators From clean-outs and repairs to recores and performance upgrades, Natrad HDS can advise the most cost-effective solution to fix your radiator problem. No job is too big or too small and they have the best knowledge in the indus-

Natrad HDS can advise the most cost-effective solution to fix your radiator problem.

try. With access to Australia’s largest range of radiators and excellent customer service, Natrad HDS will get you back to work fast.

Intercoolers Don’t put up with a leaking intercooler. It’s a good way to lose engine performance and wasting money on fuel can really add up. Natrad HDS can replace or recore your damaged intercooler and restore your engine to its optimum performance.

EGR coolers Natrad HDS has a range of quality EGR coolers to suit large trucks and equipment.

It also has EGRs for light trucks and SUVs too. If it’s part of the cooling system, Natrad HDS can fix it.

Natrad HDS workshops have all your cooling needs covered.

Oil coolers Whether it’s for the transmission or a hydraulic

WITH THE ABILITY TO SUPPORT ON-HIGHWAY AND OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLES, EARTH-MOVING AND MINING APPLICATIONS, LARGE TRANSPORT VEHICLE FLEETS, AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY AND LARGE-SCALE POWER GENERATORS, NATRAD HDS IS THE IDEAL CHOICE TO HANDLE HEAVY-DUTY NEEDS.” NATRAD SPOKESPERSON

system, Natrad HDS can provide a cooling solution that meets your particular vehicle and operating environment. Choose from the range of high quality Dana Tru-Cool oil coolers or get

a high-pressure Adrad alloy custom-built design.

Fabrication For the perfect cooling solution in your heavy-duty equipment, Natrad heavy duty technicians are able to carry out high quality fabrication and repairs for a range of equipment/parts.

Cooling advice As a cooling specialist, NatRad HDS’s heavy-duty workshops have the knowledge and expertise to handle everything within the cooling system. From radiators, coolants, intercoolers, oil coolers, air conditioning and more, if something needs fixing or replacement, HDS has the know-how.

For more information on what Natrad HDS can do for you, call 1800 437 723 or visit the website at natradhds. com.au.

Heavy Duty Cooling Natrad has been cooling heavy duty equipment for 37 years.

Natrad_HDS_BigRigs_0821_FullPg

When you need quality parts and advice about heavy duty cooling solutions for your heavy vehicle, talk to a specialist you can trust.

Proudly Australian Owned & Operated

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28 AD FEATURE KEEP IT COOL

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

The cooler way for drivers to rest and recover

THERE are enormous benefits to using a parking cooler in your truck cabin. Keeping the cabin as comfortable as possible by regulating the temperature and humidity during rest and sleep stops allows drivers to rest and recover optimally which can increase alertness and therefore safety while driving.

Operating costs are reduced as the engine is not running unnecessarily (therefore reducing wear) and at the same time not idling the engine reduces harmful emissions and saves fuel costs. A parking cooler is a win-win solution for driver safety, finances and the environment.

Webasto has been providing comfort solutions for the bus and truck market since 1965 and has an impressive truck portfolio with high quality products that are perfect for the harsh Australian summer heat.

Webasto offers a range of parking coolers, with a solution available for most applications.

The Fresco 3000 is a 12 or 24 volt, 950 Watt, DC-powered split system air-conditioning unit comprising of a

condenser which is mounted on the external rear wall of the cabin, and the evaporator which is installed on the interior cabin wall. This design allows maximum flexibility in positioning the separate components. Its lightweight, low profile design means it is suitable for most applications without compromising fuel load or chassis space.

Webasto’s newest offering is the Cool Top RTE 16, an effective, lightweight, 24-volt electric parking cooler. The powerful 1.6Kw rooftop air conditioning system is available with a wide choice of specific truck model mounting kits which allow easy installation via the vehicle’s roof hatch. The system is controlled using a digital display panel and/or a handy remote control unit and offers automatic temperature control and individual temperature and fan speed adjustments.

It also provides an adjustable low battery voltage cutoff to ensure that the engine will always start.

The Cool Split 20 is available in 12 or 24 volt, with a cooling capacity of 2kW. It is available with rear or rooftop

Webasto offers a range of parking coolers, with a solution available for most applications.

The Fresco 3000 is a DCpowered split system airconditioning unit comprising of a condenser mounted on the external rear wall of the cabin, and an evaporator installed on the interior cabin wall.

mounted condenser with the evaporator installed on the interior cabin wall. The Cool Split 20 features a programmable control panel, multifunction infrared remote control, a four-speed fan with two adjustable/closable vents and safety features that

through Webasto’s authorised truck sales and service dealer network and as with all Webasto products, they are covered by a two-year warranty.

For more information, please visit webasto.com or call 1800 244 494.

include low pressure /thermal/tilt/HV earth leakage and low battery voltage protection. This system will suit most applications without compressing the roof hatch.

Also on offer for the truck market are Webasto’s isotherm compressor fridg-

es ranging in size and style from a 16L and 30L drawer fridge/freezer up to a 49L upright refrigerator, helping to keep drinks and food as fresh as possible while on the road.

Webasto products are available Australia-wide

No matter where or when - Rest cool & easy with Webasto Isotherm Compressor Fridge 16L Fridge/Freezer Drawer 30L Fridge Drawer 49L Upright Fridge Compact with multiple installation options.

Fresco 3000 Low profile, light weight, DC powered, rear mount 12 or 24v Air Conditioning.

Cool Split 20 High Performance 2kW cooling, very low noise, low profile, light weight, rear or roof mounted 12 or 24v Air Conditioning.

Cool Top RTE 16 High performance, 1.6kW, lightweight, low profile, roof mounted 24v electric parking cooler. Cooling without engine idling.

Integrated low voltage battery cut-off ensures engine re-start.

Easy Installation via vehicle roof hatch.

Air Top 2000 STC 2 kW Diesel Fired Cab Heater for non idling heating. Powerful, quiet, fast & compact.

Webasto Thermo & Comfort Australia Pty Ltd 1800 244 494 | svc-info@webasto.com

Air Control Transport Refrigeration 12 Alice St Bassendean 6054 08 9279 9944 Heavylec 587 South Rd Regency Park 5010 08 8347 4246

For more Webasto Australia-wide Service Partners visit:

www.webasto.com

SA

Wicko's Auto Electrics South West VIC & South East SA 0419 305 114

WA

AAA Cooling & Trimming 9 Catalina Dr Tullamarine 3043 0417 858 009

Trans Air & Electrics VIC & Albury 0429 842 644

SA

Mavin Truck Centre 5 Woolford Cres Kempsey 2440 02 6562 6211

VIC

Wagga Car Radio 379 Edward St Wagga Wagga 2650 02 6925 6111

NSW

Crowhurst Auto Electrical 6 Highgate St Auburn 2144 02 9748 0488

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Webasto Authorised Installer Network

Wakefield Trucks 1174-1180 Port Wakefield Dr Burton 5110 08 8280 8133

All products are supplied with a 2 year warranty

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Superior strength in truck radiator design

AROUND a decade ago, Adrad introduced ADFUSE as a premium, aftermarket heavy duty radiator core option for industrial cooling applications. Manufactured in Australia, this superior strength radiator design has become one of Adrad’s most successful products.

Using welded bonds rather than soldered, ADFUSE bonds provide extra protection against extreme heat and stresses from thermal expansion, vibration and pressure. These stresses ordinarily cause soldered joints to fail over time, resulting in reduced life span

ADFUSE radiators boast an unbeatable combination of features.

and unnecessarily increased downtime.

ADFUSE uses sophisticated welding robot technology to individually fuse each tube to the header, producing a much stronger bond than solder. Some radiator cores contain over 500 tubes with every tube welded at both ends. This means a single ADFUSE core can contain over 1000 individual welds.

For extreme precision, ADFUSE uses a computer-controlled robot that is able to perform welding with an accuracy of <0.1mm, while welding each tube in less than two seconds. Additionally, ADFUSE uses solder backfill on each weld for added reinforcement. This allows the radiator to better withstand the demanding conditions in hard-working vehicles.

The welded tube-to-header joins also protect against high temperature and corrosion.

ADFUSE cores are available in 5/8” and Ultra-T configurations, providing maximum strength and

ADFUSE uses sophisticated welding robot technology to fuse each tube to the header.

durability in applications where high temperatures, stress and vibration occur.

Paired with the durability of ADFUSE, these radiators boast an unbeatable combination of performance, durability and strength where demanding cooling is needed.

There is a huge demand for ADFUSE cores amongst radiator specialist workshops around Australia, with most of them being fitted into trucks. At launch, these welded radiator cores were regarded as a premium option only. After many years of proven perfor-

mance, their popularity has grown so much that they now out-sell Adrad’s regular soldered industrial cores.

If you’re looking to repair or replace your truck radiator, be sure to ask your local radiator specialist about upgrading to an Adrad ADFUSE radiator core.

• High Performance

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• Exclusive to Adrad

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1800 069 610 adradradiators.com.au

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FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Heat matters in truck power steering systems POWER steering systems with intermittent system temperatures greater than 120ºC will be damaging pump and gear seals as well as power steering hoses, decreasing the reliability of the power steering system and increasing maintenance costs.

High fluid temperatures can be caused by incorrect pump specification, worn or damaged steering gears and poorly maintained kingpins to name but a few causes.

Heat is the enemy and slowly, over time, it can cause premature failure of components. The hotter the system runs, the quicker this occurs.

Hydrosteer’s Coolflow Coolers have stood the test of some of the harshest environments in Australia. It has been installed on many vehicles which regularly complete long haul, high ambient temperature environments such as Perth to Darwin.

Coolflow Coolers are effective at lowering the power steering system temperature due to the highly efficient and robust fin design that is mechanically strong to resist stone damage. This is aided by the use of highly thermally conductive aluminium alloy that rapidly pulls heat from the power steering system fluid and dumps it into the air, reducing the overall heat load

The company carries an ever-expanding range of complete heavy-duty truck radiators in stock and ready for immediate dispatch.

A Coolflow Cooler installed onto fuel tank brackets.

faced by the power steering pump, gear and hoses.

It is simple to install and is proven to reduce the heat load on power steering systems. It can also be utilised to assist with temperature reduction of fuel, transmission and differential oil systems.

One of Hydrosteer’s customers in Western Australia was experiencing excessive heat in the power steering system on several of his road trains and prior to installation of the Coolflow Cooler noted that the power steering pumps lasted approximately 150,000km.

After installation of a single 500mm long Coolflow Cooler, the power steering pumps had lasted 500,000km without maintenance and they showed no signs of needing any attention.

Coolflow Coolers are available as single or twin units and come complete with mounting brackets, available in a range of standard lengths from 300mm through to 1400mm (100mm increments). The standard colour is blue, however other colours are available upon request.

Call 1300 010 338, or visit hydrosteer.com.au.

Australia's Leading Heavy Vehicle Power Steering Specialist Repair or Replacement Steering Gears (new or refurbished) , Pumps, Drag Links, Slip Shafts, Rod Ends, Seal Kits, Miter Gears ,Coolers and MORE.

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BAYSWATER Road Radiators was established in the early 1980s at 369 Bayswater Road, Garbutt, which was then the industrial centre of Townsville.

The business relocated across the other side of the intersection of Bayswater Road and Duckworth Street to its new building approximately 17 years ago, where it remains trading today.

The business is a long-term member of MTAQ. And after industry lobbying was appointed the first radiator specialist in Queensland with approved repairs status for the RACQ. Up to that point the radiator repair sector was not provided with any official RACQ status in the automotive trade.

The business focuses solely on cooling systems with a special emphasis on trucks and industrial applications.

Manager Aaron Thompson has a special interest in the development of special applications not available to the general market. This has led to the expansion of special products available to customers today.

Bayswater Road Radiators understands that trucking down time is costly, and as a result it

provides quick turnaround services, repairs and full rebuilds to all types of trucking and heavy haulage applications.

The company carries an ever-expanding range of complete heavy-duty truck radiators in stock and ready for immediate dispatch for popular models such as Kenworth, Western Star, Mack, etc, and specialises in the design and engineering of heavy duty cooling packs, increasing longevity and minimising downtime.

All its exchange radiator assemblies have been assembled using experienced radiator specialists, using quality materials. All units are stripped down, with tanks, brackets and supports cleaned and inspected before reassembling using new Australian manufactured heavy-duty cores, including new quality gaskets and replacement hardware.

Each unit is thoroughly pressure tested before being painted ready for delivery. Each exchange unit also sits in its own fabricated steel transport frame ready for despatch.

With over three decades of experience, Bayswater Radiators

has been servicing and repairing road trains and off highway units, offering advice and recommending solutions.

“We also provide an extensive range of new truck intercoolers, including repairs and modifications,” added a spokesperson.

“An important part of our work is the special design and engineering of heavy duty cooling packs to increase performance and longevity, not only for highway big rigs but specialist applications for mining and earthmoving too.

“We provide custom engineered core design options, including heavy duty brass fins, with various open tube pitch offerings, including the fabrication of radiator cores, offering superior impact protection. Upgraded heavy duty applications can be offered in steel, copper and brass, or aluminium.

“For owners of a 4WD vehicle that doesn’t quite cut it with Australia’s harsh conditions we can offer advice to overcome issues with overheating. Our workshop offers cleaning, servicing, repairs and heavy-duty upgrades.”

SPONSORED CONTENT 31

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Your common sense guide to running a business And I assure you, they will.

If you have a business where you can take leave without having to get someone to step in for you while you’re away, all the better. But if you have to pay another wage while you’re away, you’ll need to factor this cost into the mix as well.

Knowing Your Costs Leads to Smoother Operation Understanding all the costs involved in running a business will also lead to more efficient business practises. By undertaking the Total Hourly Rate exercise, and having to work out what costs might arise, you’ll also have to think about what processes and procedures you might put in place to deal with (and minimise) these costs. Not only will this ensure you’re prepared when these costs do arise, and they will, thinking about the ensuing procedures and processes will ensure the administration and compliance obligations of your business function smoothly. As we will discuss in more depth later, managing this aspect of any business is as important as the operational side, especially if you’re planning for growth.

And again, this applies equally to taking on a new venture or when re-evaluating your current situation.

Author Graham Cotter has dedicated his life to helping business owners.

GRAHAM Cotter’s passion is for small business, especially the road transport sector, and the significant role it plays in the Australian economy.

Having both managed and owned a small-fleet operation for a number of years, Townsville-based Cotter has witnessed first-hand the difficulties small-business operators face in the day-to-day aspect of running a transport business and has now dedicated his life to assisting other business owners.

To that end, the managing director of KISS Business Management has just released the timely book Don’t Suck The Pencils, a common-sense business guide for every transport operator looking to maximise their bottom line in these challenging times.

Below is an exclusive extract for Big Rigs readers.

Are You Just Buying Yourself a Job? Often when a new operator sets out and buys a truck, or any other small business, one of the biggest mistakes they make is they end up simply buying themselves a job.

And then, when they have to hand over $1500-$2000 every week to the worker doing an 8-hour day, 5-days a week.

Graham Cotter draws on a lifetime of experience to share his best advice for transport operators.

Total Hourly Rate (with 4-weeks annual leave and 10-days sick leave), this can feel like a real kick in the guts. Especially when the worker didn’t have to put up the money and doesn’t have to bear the responsibility of running a business that probably cost more than a million dollars. It doesn’t have to be this way.

The best way to avoid this happening is to know your costs and charge accordingly.

I’ve owned many small busi-

nesses and one of the first things I do when taking on a new venture is calculate the total hourly rate. To get to this figure, I first look at the total labour hours. This is the total number of hours that it’s going to take me to get the job done. I then crunch the numbers and work out what’s left after the expenses have been and divide this by the hours.This gives you the Total Hourly Rate for my time and effort. Remember though, when looking at the financial

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small business operator who recognises and adopts these systems will be far better positioned to take advantage of any technological advances, leaping ahead of those who continue to do things the way they’ve been doing so for years. Be open to everything and attached to nothing.

This way you’ll find what fits your business now, and more importantly, into the future.

Due to their breadth and constant evolution, I will not go into the specific names and details of the apps and software packages available; instead, I encourage you to spend the time researching what is out there and examining how these tools can reduce the time and costs involved with running your business. Remember, your time is your money. And the more you can improve efficiencies, the better the Total Hourly Rate of running your business will be.

• Don’t Suck The Pencils, a common-sense guide to the fundamentals of running a small to medium-size business, is available now. To order your copy visit kissbusiness.com.au, or amazon. com.

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costs and liabilities, you have to factor in things like annual leave, sick leave, Work Cover, insurances, and superannuation, as well as any cost you’ll incur covering staff when they have to take time off.

Be Open to Everything and Attached to Nothing Innovation has already played an amazing role in streamlining business administration and compliance. In the coming years, the Wizz kids behind these technologies will continue to develop even more new and amazing tools for small businesses. The

OFTEN WHEN A NEW OPERATOR SETS OUT AND BUYS A TRUCK, OR ANY OTHER SMALL BUSINESS, ONE OF THE BIGGEST MISTAKES THEY MAKE IS THEY END UP SIMPLY BUYING THEMSELVES A JOB.

Purchase on Amazon.com or kissbusiness.com.au

32 SPONSORED CONTENT

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Low-cost engine treatment boosts bottom line

RISING AdBlue prices may be causing headaches for many truckies around Australia, but there is one low-cost engine additive on the market today that can offset those costs by boosting mileage, engine life and truck resale values.

That’s the message from Michael Czajka PhD, director of MC1, the Victorian-based company that distributes the engine treatment formula XcelPlus.

For a one-off treatment of less than $200 – a $99 bottle of XcelPlus is recommended per 7L engine – Czajka says truck users will save a small fortune on running costs, and dramatically reduce emissions of nitrous oxides (less AdBlue needed), hydrocarbons, soot and a raft of other pollutants.

“We’re cleaning up the planet one truck at a time with our range of products,” said Czajka.

“Diesel tends to run very dirty, so one of the biggest advantages for truck drivers using XcelPlus in a diesel engine is that it starts running a lot cleaner.

“Diesel Particulate Filters [DPFs] won’t get clogged as fast or perhaps not at all, and the

particles in DBFs are unburned fuel. If the DPF has less particles in it that’s because you’ve got improved fuel economy.”

Czajka said tests show that this can equate to a diesel fuel saving of $17,330 over 10 years for trucks averaging 20,800 km each year.

Reducing friction in parts such as the gearbox, differential and combustion chamber will result in further improvements, says Czajka. That’s why he also recommends using the engine treatment formula in conjunction with the XcelPlus Combustion Chamber Treatment ($39).

The Engine Treatment is simply poured in with the oil while the Combustion Chamber Treatment is added to the fuel. Both keep the engine clean, protecting against acids and corrosion while providing additional boundary lubrication that protects the engine against running dry.

“Most [other] treatments are oil treatments, that’s why when you change the oil you lose them, but this one is different because it bonds to metal,” said Czajka.

“You only need a single

The extensive XcelPlus range is available from a host of distributors nationwide.

application to receive “monstrous” on-going payoffs.”

The biggest payoff, he says, will be in the reduction of engine breakdowns, and therefore the productivity of the truck over its lifetime.

“Stuff just stops breaking down [when using XcelPlus] and if you double your engine

lifespan you’ve just saved yourself the cost of a new rig,” said Czajka.

He said tests show that a single application of XcelPlus can reduce wear by as much as 50-80 per cent.

“Just a 50 per cent reduction in wear will double the engine life in a truck, and that’s hugely

important because engines are expensive.”

Czajka said he receives glowing testimonials from truckies who are reaping the benefits of using the range and with the added cost pressures on smaller operators today, he is keen to let Big Rigs readers know of the savings.

“For such a small investment there is a huge payout – it’s a no-brainer.

“The best part is that it’s usually the vehicles with the worst problems that get the biggest improvements.”

For more information and details of your nearest distributor, visit xcelplus.com.au.

Are you looking for a way to reduce emissions?

XcelPlus Engine Treatment Single application super lubrication Tests demonstrate: • NOx decreased by 20 % (TUV) • Fuel economy improved 36 % (Le Tourneau Uni) • CO Emissions decreased 38 -76 % • HC decreased 23 - 33 % (Bilsport) • Soot decreased by 100 % (DR650) • Wear reduced by 82 %: ~5x lifespan (2015 Toyota Yaris) • Friction reduced by 25 - 30 % (FAA testing) • +15 % HP (Utah Uni) • +17 % acceleration (Nantes Uni) • +9 % compression (Le Tourneau Uni) • CO2 emissions reduced by >4.3 tons (Cost Benefit Analysis)*

User testimonials: • Doubled fuel economy (1991 Toyota Landcruiser 4.2 L diesel) • 30% increase in fuel economy (2011 BMW X5 turbo diesel 3 L)

*Estimated savings >$840/y (7 Ways to save)

Cleaning up the planet one truck at a time

Engine Treatment RRP $99

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23 BLIVEST STREET OXLEY QLD

RT ERTON

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

34 COLUMN contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE contributors@bigrigs.com.au

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Something must be done about toll roads EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NEWS

TWU NEWS RICHARDOLSEN OLSEN RICHARD TWU NSW State Secretary TWU NSW/QLD State Secretary

BY now, the bubbles from the New Year celebrations have well and truly evaporated and we continue getting

on with the job.

One of those jobs for the TWU is to call on the reasonably new Roads Minister in NSW, Natalie Ward to pick up where other roads ministers LEGAL EAGLE have notKING and address out-ofROWAN control tollRKroad Principal Lawyer Law costs.

On January 1, Transurban Linkt toll roads went up in cost, again.

On April 1 they will go up again and that is not an April Fool’s joke. On July 1 they will

again increase, and they will continue to do so for some roads like the NorthConnex for years to come.

At the beginning of the year, the cost for a heavy vehicle to use the NorthConnex tunnel has gone up to $25.33 and is on track to be $35 oneway by 2030 and almost $74 one-way in 25 years’ time.

That is nothing short of complete madness.

With a $194 fine in place

The cost for a heavy vehicle to use the NorthConnex tunnel has gone up to $25.33 and is on track to be $35 one-way by 2030.

for heavy vehicle operators who avoid the NorthConnex, it’s clear that coercion is the only way the NSW Government and Transurban can get people to use their overpriced toll roads.

The ongoing increases in the costs of Transurban Linkt toll roads continue to create an enormous financial burden for all transport workers.

While just about every operating cost for owner-drivers has steadily increased over the years, none has increased more than toll roads.

Last year, in a NSW Parliamentary inquiry the TWU revealed that Toll – the biggest freight company in Australia – has instructed its workforce to not use toll roads because “in most cases, the cost of the toll roads outweighs any benefit we receive from using them”.

So it’s clear that Sydney’s out-of-control toll road crisis has reached new heights, with the transport industry beginning to boycott toll roads altogether due to the exorbitant costs.

Other toll roads operated

by Transurban Linkt have also increased their cost of use from

IT’S CLEAR THAT SYDNEY’S OUT-OFCONTROL TOLL ROAD CRISIS HAS REACHED NEW HEIGHTS, WITH THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY BEGINNING TO BOYCOTT TOLL ROADS ALTOGETHER DUE TO THE EXORBITANT COSTS.” RICHARD OLSEN

NSW Roads Minister Natalie Ward.

the start of the year.

The TWU has done the maths and the bottom line is that the cost of every toll road in Sydney will be at least double (and in some cases closer to triple) for heavy vehicles by 2048, compared to today.

While Transurban is collecting millions in profits on the backs of transport workers, it is safe to say heavy vehicle operator incomes are unlikely to increase by 2-3 times in the next 26 years.

Transurban, recently admitted at a parliamentary inquiry to collecting more than $2 bil-

lion in toll revenue from Sydney drivers.

The NSW government has refused to provide toll road relief for heavy vehicle operators and has continually failed to consult with heavy vehicle operators or their representative the TWU. Toll relief is needed along with caps on costs, which would provide certainty. The TWU is ramping up the fight A new Roads Minister presents the perfect opportunity to provide meaningful toll relief to owner-drivers and all road users.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Free rapid antigen testing is essential VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

WHAT a difference a month can make in a pandemic.

It was only early last December that we were in the tail end of the Delta variant, with falling case numbers and cautious optimism about returning to some sort of normalcy in 2022. Fast forward six weeks and Omicron has taken hold to exacerbate already fragile supply chains, setting the scene for a roller coaster start to the year.

This apparently more virulent, but less harmful, variant of Covid has refocussed national attention on supply chains, vindicating the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) and industry’s position on a range of issues from mandatory vaccinations, essential service

designations, and now, rapid antiget testing (RAT) for freight workers.

Throughout lockdowns last year, the VTA led calls for rapid antigen tests to replace personally intrusive and difficult to obtain PCR testing for drivers. Jurisdictions were resistant to such calls, preferring instead to require up to three PCR tests a week for interstate drivers just to maintain their border crossing permits.

But with Omicron cases now overwhelming PCR testing centres and close contact rules decimating the healthcare workforce, jurisdictions have done a massive 180 on rapid testing so that people can test themselves.

If a critical service worker is identified as a close Covid contact but returns a negative test result, there is no reason they shouldn’t be permitted to return to work, so we welcome this variation to the rules and encourage the states and territories to adopt it immediately. This should include those that have had and recovered from Covid and have since returned a

negative test result.

While the Victorian government is to be commended for abolishing isolation requirements for close contact transport workers, its additional requirement that they be tested every day for five days with a RAT presents its own challenges.

The freight industry has experienced the same problems finding rapid tests as everyone else and where they are a legal requirement of government to work – such as in Victoria – rapid tests should be made readily available at no cost to the operator or driver.

Rapid antigen testing is likely to be a condition for close contacts to return to work in other jurisdictions and where this is the case it is the VTA’s position that governments should be supplying the tests at no charge.

The VTA had been advocating for rapid tests to replace PCR testing for months as a less intrusive form of testing for freight workers.

Interstate heavy vehicle drivers have been testing

It is incumbent on any government that mandates rapid tests as a condition of working that they supply them free of charge.

up to three times a week for many months as a condition of maintaining their border crossing permits and we welcome the conversion to rapid tests across many jurisdictions.

But with supply chains on the brink of collapse and rapid tests not readily available, it is incumbent on any government that mandates

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rapid tests as a condition of working that they supply them free of charge – just as they have been doing with PCR tests for many months.

Measures to support our state and national supply chains will feature prominently at the annual VTA State Conference, planned for March 20-22 at Silverwater Resort, Phillip Island

(Victoria).

Under our theme of Attaining Post-pandemic Supply Chain Sovereignty, we look forward to two days of intense and informative discussion with key stakeholders from government, industry and regulators, and identifying solutions to the supply chain crisis facing the nation.

U

avman

36 COLUMN

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Positive planning after challenging times

COST CUTTER CHET CLINE

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

AIR CTI founder/owner

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT TRANSPORT WOMEN IN JACQUELENE BROTHERTON JACQUELENE BROTHERTON Chair of Transport WomenWomen Australia Chair of Transport

Australia

AS we are well into the first month of 2022 it is difficult to do so with a huge amount of optimism.

After the past two years of lockdowns, being isolated, divided and unable to travel it is difficult to imagine a return to any type of normal in the short THE OZ TRUCKER term. WILLIAMS MIKE contributors@bigrigs.com.au However, we are trying to become enthusiastic and have begun to plan accordingly.

We’re planning to travel to visit family and friends, hoping the border stay open. Although international travel still seems a long way off.

Transport Women Australia Limited is planning a host of International Women’s Day events in early March in most capital cities and in several reLOBBYIST gions following STEVE SHEARERon from the SA Road Transport Association EOY event successful Illawarra Executive Director in December.

As our member base has

grown dramatically and those members are participating in the planning and hosting of these events, we are hoping to hold more regional events as the year goes on.

EDITOR We GRAHAM are also holding out JAMES james.graham@bigrigs.com.au Driving the Different Conference on June 3-5 after a delay from May 2021, we are so looking forward to this event at the Hyatt Place, Essendon Fields.

We have planned a great programme with wonderful speakers and sponsors, and everybody has stayed committed so it’s going to be fantastic. Also, with the easing TWU NEWS of restrictions, we will also return to our Learning RICHARD OLSEN TWU NSW StateBreakfasts Secretary Initiative throughout the year.

If anyone has a topic, they would like to cover at these breakfasts or would like to sponsor them, please feel free to contact me.

We will be increasing our participation in regional truck shows, in the high schools’ programme, grow our participation with Inspire Australia.

We look forward to forging more partnership with schools and colleges to promote the transport logistics industry to young people, to show them

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS contributors@bigrigs.com.au

LEGAL EAGLE ROWAN KING

Principal Lawyer RK Law

TWAL is planning a host of International Women’s Day events in most capital cities and in several regions following on from the successful Illawarra EOY event in December.

that it’s a great career opportunity and share our passion with the next generation.

We are working on several new initiatives which will be announced after the February board planning weekend, we will also be forming new subcommittee to assist us with some programmes.

So, in the near future, we will

be calling on our members and some learned industry friends to work with us on these initiatives. As we now have the largest board since the association began, we hope to continue to bring you bigger and better programmes and events as we move forward to 2022 and beyond.

On a personal level, returning to the trucking side of the

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supply chain, after many years in 3PLs and warehousing, has been quite a transition. When last working for a trucking company, I was not in compliance and I am sure that we didn’t have to worry about Standard Hours, BFM, AFM, long/night work, night rest, etc.

The poor truck drivers who have to manage their work dia-

ry, not to mention their fatigue as well as all the other requirements of the regulations and customers must be so frustrated that truck driving is not regarded as a professional job when you have to be a competent in so many different tasks to complete the job.

Definitely not JUST a truck driver!

COLUMN 37

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Time for strong leadership ATA CHAIR DAVID SMITH Australian Trucking Association

THE last couple of years have been a seemingly endless obstacle race for the Australian trucking industry, with the obstacles becoming higher and more complicated at every turn.

These obstacles have included Covid-19, AdBlue supply issues and driver shortages.

Any one of these issues could have brought the industry to its knees but the Australian trucking industry has tackled each one with courage and a determination to keep the country moving.

There’s no doubt these issues are taking their toll on truck drivers and trucking operators.

Covid-19 alone has brought countless challenges, including driver shortages, the onerous burden of rolling seven day PCR tests, the scarcity and expense of rapid antigen tests (RATs) and border closures.

And while the federal government assures us Aus-

The AdBlue shortages could have been handled better by federal and state governments.

tralia has adequate supply of AdBlue we know the steep price hike has dramatically escalated the cost of keeping a modern diesel fleet on the road.

We know how tough it’s been for the industry and we commend Australia’s truck drivers and trucking operators for their strength and resilience.

One of the questions our members are asking is

whether the Covid, AdBlue or driver shortage issues could have been handled better by our federal and state governments. The short answer is yes.

The longer answer is still yes. We believe the recent handling of the Covid-19 pandemic has been a shambles. The confusion over PCR and RATs has caused unnecessary anxiety for an industry that’s already

stretched.

The federal government was warned in September 2021 that RATs were required and yet it appears there was little to no effort to secure sufficient supply.

State governments were trying to enforce unworkable rolling seve- day PCR testing for truck drivers and when that was finally (and thankfully scrapped), drivers were urged to get RATs,

which would have been fine except for the scarcity and expense of RATs in Australia.

And then as the Omicron variant swept across Australia, the already serious shortage of truck drivers swiftly became a crisis.

News websites and social media featured photo after photo of empty supermarket shelves and it quickly became apparent to Austra-

lians that the supply chain was in peril.

The AdBlue supply issue also teetered on the edge of becoming a national crisis, with the very real threat of the vital additive running out before Christmas. The crisis was narrowly averted thanks to intense lobbying by the ATA and our member associations as well as some other industry groups.

We commend the federal government for moving to head off the crisis but believe the situation needn’t have got to that point if the government had heeded our warnings earlier in 2021.

The ATA has been speaking to both the federal and state governments on a very regular basis, advocating for our members and the trucking industry as a whole.

We are reporting the issues brought up by our members. We are promoting potential solutions.

We believe our industry and all Australians are looking for strong leadership and wise, strategic and swift decision making.

At the ATA, we are committed to meeting these expectations and call on our federal and state politicians to show the same commitment.

It is time to lead, make strong decisions and to act.

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Truckies’ top NT roadhouse

been enjoying the entertainment returned.

“I reckon this is a bit of divine intervention as I was going to pay to get my Isuzu cleaned in coming days,” one said as he munched on a hot dog smothered in tomato sauce.

SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON

Question over live cattle exports A general shortage of cattle and other issues has many livestock carriers pondering where the live Australian export industry is headed in 2022.

Without a doubt there are many challenges ahead. That is the feedback Spy has been getting after speaking to cattle transporters.

The Queensland Livestock Exporters Association has predicted that just over 700,000 live cattle will be exported from Australia this calendar year.

These will be exported from ports in Queensland, the NT and WA to destinations in Vietnam, Indonesia, Israel, Malaysia, maybe China and other places such as Brazil.

Some of the other factors which could influence how successful the industry is that Australian buyers are seeking more cattle, Covid-19, rising fuel costs and ongoing concerns about China.

Cattle being loaded from a truck onto a ship for live export at Townsville Port.

The price of meat at butcher shops and supermarkets has skyrocketed recently so producers will gain financially in most cases by selling in Australia.

On a positive note, Australia usually exports more live cattle than any other country and it looks likely there will be an adequate number of ships ready to take the cattle over the high seas.

Army trucks assist remote communities Around 150 soldiers who were part of the Australian

Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Program (AAACAP) have assisted with infrastructure improvements and training programs at the remote Cape York community of Pormpuraaw.

Formerly known as Edward River Community, Pormpuraaw is on western Cape York and 800km northwest of Cairns.

When the soldiers arrived, they were greeted by members of the highly acclaimed Pormpuraaw Arts Centre Dance Group.

Numerous trucks have

been vital towards the success of the program which will continue in 2022.

The creeks and waters off the beaches around Pormpuraaw, are renowned for huge saltwater crocodiles.

Some years ago, I was in Pormpuraaw and covered “crocodile races” in which small salties were involved.

Free truck wash Having a dirty truck is often one of the first things drivers mentioned when asked by a Big Rigs correspondent if their rig can be photographed.

“I will have to wash my truck soon,” is a common response.

That dilemma was solved rather unexpectedly for half a dozen drivers when they parked their trucks near the venue of a Christmas festival in a big town.

These were refrigerated trucks which were supplying stalls at the popular event.

At around 8pm the Council irrigation system around their trucks activated unexpectedly.

This left the trucks clean when their drivers who had

OBE for veteran truckie Spy almost choked on his breakfast cereal after hearing about a veteran truckie from Cobram in Victoria who was boasting he had received an OBE. My first thought was that old mate had been honoured with an Order of the British Empire.

This gent is aged in his eighties and still does some casual driving and has been a big community contributor.

He is a proud Octogenarian and said he in fact had not received an Order of the British Empire.

“No – I have received my “Over Bloody Eighty” award,” he said.

This top bloke said he had given himself the award.

Dunmarra Roadhouse NT Spy asked numerous truckies about roadhouses which cater for their needs have nominated the Shell Dunmarra in the Northern Territory.

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A truck parked outside the Dunmarra Roadhouse in the NT.

It is strategically located along the Stuart Highway 320km south of Katherine and 360km north of Tennant Creek.

Drivers reckon the owner and staff are friendly and the food is good, so I spoke to the proprietor of the last 18 years Gary Frost.

“We get between 20 and 30 trucks stopping here on average daily and they come from all over the place. Any truckie who walks through the door here is treated as a friend,” Frost said.

Frost said the favourite meal for truckies was steak served with a selection of salad or vegetables and chips.

“We pride ourselves on generous portions for truckies and serve the best quality meat and provide free showers,” he said.

Some of the truckies who praised the roadhouse nominated the home-made chunky meat pies and vanilla slices as treats which tantalise their taste buds.

“We make these all here and in the busy season I have four or five employees and one in the quieter months,” he said.

A monument to the Overland Telegraph Line stands beside the Stuart Highway south of Dunmarra, dedicated to Sir Charles Todd, Postmaster, General of the Province of South Australia, 1872.

AdBlue controversy A barge cruised along a creek with several trucks on board as a politician was holding a press conference about the AdBlue Controversy which has a huge topic of conversation in the Australian road transport industry.

“The trucks on that barge need AdBlue to operate,” road transport operator Clynton Hawks said.

Hawks is an operator for the local family business Hawks Transport and is also a Katter Australia Party candidate for the north Queensland seat of Herbert at the next Federal election.

Ironically a cameraman for one of the television networks who was there filming the press conference revealed the vehicle he was in also needed Adblue.

AdBlue, a diesel engine additive used for trucks, some agriculture equipment and family vehicles, had been placed into jeopardy as China cuts Australia off from importing Urea – the key ingredient.

Flashes of Ashes brilliance Numerous road transport industry people will enjoy some well-earned recreation when they participate in Australia’s biggest cricket carnival – the Goldfield Ashes at Charters Towers.

It will be held from Jan-

uary with about 240 teams competing in four men’s and a women’s division on 80 fields.

Some truckies who are lucky enough to snare time off will line up in teams, others will be spectators.

Many road transport companies sponsor teams whether it be providing shirts or funds.

This carnival commenced in 1948 with just six men’s sides and has expanded into a genuine Aussie icon event.

Last year’s event had to be cancelled due to Covid-19 regulations.

Often truckies travelling through the North Queensland city which was once known as the “world” will pull up at the big Gold City Roadhouse and ask why all the cricket is being played on fields they have passed.

Whilst the carnival is contested mainly by teams from around north Queensland, in the past sides from interstate including the Nimbin Emus have lined up.

Players have come from as far away as Tasmania, WA and the NT to enjoy the Ashes which is the biggest cricket carnival in Australia and the southern hemisphere.

Games in the top grade are played with a degree of seriousness however in the lower divisions that is not always the case.

Unwritten rules apply such as batters making a duck or fielders dropping a ball having to wear a dress.

There are also some strange named teams including Tridanjy Troglodytes, Simpson Alpine Desert Ski XI, Zarsoff Brothers, and others we can’t print in a family paper.

Fields are on parks, at school grounds, the aerodrome reserve, the gun and golf clubs, and private properties.

One of those is called Drinkastubbie Downs on the rural property of a family which enters a team called Chad’s Champs.

Another is dubbed “Lords” and one of the

teams, which has played there is named England.

The carnival has always been an economic boost to the Charters Towers economy with all accommodation booked out, and shops, hotels and businesses doing a roaring trade.

Apple mania When things were quiet for a Tasmanian truckie because of Covid-19 regulations he got a job picking apples at an orchard.

It was hard work on day one but was paying well and he got a surprise when he rocked up for duty early the following morning.

A female picker from a nearby tree said to him, “Oh you came back, A lot of pickers come just once and that’s the last we see of them,” she said.

The job was foreign to our mate who had to climb up on a ladder wearing an apron with huge pockets on the front to place the apples in.

Once full the apron was gently emptied into huge boxes and later these were picked up by trucks and taken to market.

The wrong branch I heard of a South Australian truckie who wanted to “branch out” into a new career.

The obvious lure was that he would get to spend much more time at home instead of travelling interstate.

Although the pay was less, he managed to snare a job with a tree lopping com-

pany which was impressed with his ability to drive their trucks, and because he was superfit.

But after a few weeks on the job the lad had an experience, he will remember for the rest of his life.

“I was hanging from a tree with a chainsaw and grabbed a branch and there was a big snake on it. I have a definite snake phobia,” he said.

Whilst he enjoyed his time amongst the trees the gent is now back working as a truckie, albeit doing deliveries around his own town without much travel away.

Silence isn’t golden Drivers who frequent a popular roadhouse reckon they are closing in on discovering the identity of another who continually “passes wind” at an eatery.

This fellow obviously thinks that filling their nostrils with a foul smell is a great joke.

But he doesn’t want to be identified and has become known as the “Phantom Farter”.

Because his expressions of wind are of the silent variety.

A couple of truckies reckon that they will soon be able to name and shame the culprit at least in their own circles.

Being a Spy I asked a couple for a clue on how they have come to feel he is the man.

“He eats lots of spicy food with garlic and onion which certainly contribute to smelly wind,” he said.

Nine players from Hughenden side Weekend Wariyas fielded in the slips against the Weipa Crocs at Lords Oval during the last Ashes.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JUNE 26 2020

40 PUZZLES

Sad day for all in transport

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

9 10 11

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

SUDOKU

THIS article is the ending of an era for the transport industry with the demise of this magazine the restruc14 15 under 16 ture and rationalisation of News Corp.

It is a sad day for all of us in the 19 industry as Big Rigs maga20 zine has been a part of our lives for almost 30 years.

For some, their entire careers so far.

22 It will leave huge gap as the editors and staff have supported the industry, provided fair and rational debate and given everyone a fair say in industry doings to all, as well as stories, pictures and news of our peoEASY ple, our trucks and our unsung heroes.

Our lives will be the poorer for its demise; being a columnist for Big Rigs for the past year and half has allowed me to fulfil yet another childhood dream, to write, and it has given me great pleasure and I hope it has at least been enjoyed by some.

While so many are focused on the negatives of the industry, I have tried to focus on the

Across

6

positives aspects or those issues about which I am most passionate and have a chance of making a contribution to change.

I began writing column when I was returned as Transport Women Australia Limited chair in 12 November 2017.

In the interim, TWAL has had many successes and achievements.

It has expanded 17 the relationship with Girl Guides Australia 18 and been involved with several successful projects with them, the Victorian Snoozefest in April 2018, the “Great Bag Migration” for the Interna21 tional Jamboree in Sydney in October 2018 and other interactions that are expanding the knowledge of the transport in23 dustry.

We launched the Women Driving Transport Careers initiative with our partners Wodonga TAFE and Volvo Group at the 2018 TWAL Creating Connections conference.

This initiative has been in hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic but all partners are excited to move forward to expand the program as soon as possible.

We held a well attended and exciting conference in May 2018 and we have plans in place with the date saved and venue booked for our Driving the Difference 2021 conference

13

1 Name a particular nut (6) 7 Which term describes the Western Hemisphere (8) 8 What, colloquially, is a very important person (6) 9 Name Kipling’s heroic water bearer (5,3) 10 What is an evening party or social gathering (6) 11 Which computer device is capable of holding digital information until it is required (8) 14 What are very small amounts (8) 18 Name the capital of Canada (6) 19 To be of the nature of a palace is to be what (8) 21 To have mirrored, is to have done what (6) 22 What is the act of solving a problem (8) 23 Name another term for a restaurant (6)

13 Which term describes offensive or scurrilous speech (8) 15 What is a pointed stick of coloured wax (6) 16 Name the seventh major planet in order from the sun (6) 17 What is a narrow passage of water connecting two large bodies of water (6) 20 Which wading bird is allied to the heron (4)

Down

1 Name a fire-resistant fabric (8) 2 What is a point in front (6) 3 What do we call comic or burlesque verse (8) 4 Which person is seen to be closest to an admired stereotype (4) 5 What are standards of perfection (6) 6 To be undiminished, is to be what (6) 12 What do the Americans call petrol (8)

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Across: 1 Almond, 7 Occident, 8 Bigwig, 9 Gunga din, 10 Soiree, 11 Register, 14 Scruples, 18 Ottawa, 19 Palatial, 21 Imaged, 22 Solution, 23 Eatery.

8

5

I E I D E N T E T G A D I N L R I S T E R I S B T T A W A R L M A G E D I R A T E R Y

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M O N D I N O C C O G W I G A G U N I R E E D R E G E A R U P L E S R O L A T I A L N B I L U T I O N S S E

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Down: 1 Asbestos, 2 Onward, 3 Doggerel, 4 Icon, 5 Ideals, 6 Entire, 12 Gasoline, 13 Ribaldry, 15 Crayon, 16 Uranus, 17 Strait, 20 Ibis.

1

CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS: Jacquelene Brotherton (far right) enjoys a night of celebration at a Transport Women Limited event with (from left) Rachel Hesse, Paul Fleiszig and Coralie Chapman.

Picture: Contributed

in Melbourne.

1 2 In November 2019 we celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the organisation (TWAL) with a fabulous gala dinner at 8 The Windsor Melbourne where we also presented our first four 10 the Difwinners 9 of the Driving ference scholarships with our amazing sponsor, Daimler Truck and Bus Asia 12Pacific.

We also presented the inaugural Trish Pickering Mem-

14

orial 3 Award, sponsored 4 by the 5 wonderful Wes Pickering.

This was awarded for longterm outstanding contribution by a female to the road transport industry, the inaugural winner was Pam McMillan the 11 and longest serving director chair of Transport Women Australia Limited.

This is an annual award and 13 the recipient of the 2020 Trish Pickering Memorial Award

15

16

will 6 be announced later 7 this year at an event still to be determined.

We have also launched our Learning Initiatives Breakfast Series with several partners so far, including NTI, MOVE BANK and rt health.

In early 2020 the Creating Connections Mentoring program was finally ready to commence with both mentors and mentees signing up to the pro-

17

18

Across

gram.

1 Quick I would like to thank the 4 Fastener fantastic team at Big Rigs 8 Eastern newspaper fortemple their incredible 9 Eastern support and ruler wish them on11 Frighten going success. from that I getimage the oppor12I hope Worshipped tunity to continue 14 Golf moundto work with some of them and so work to15 Fascinate wards making the trucking in19 Anger dustry a better appreciated, 21 Indicate assent and a safer place for our peo22 Wicked ple.

24 27 29 30 31

Citrus fruit Article Opposed Indian monetary unit Mine entrance

Fighting to end the inequality: Big Rigs and TWU played their parts 21 19 20 HARD

F A S T P A G O E M I R I D O L A E E N R A G B E M O N A V E U P E E

R I O D D E A L L E E V I R S A

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industry as dry as they can.

They want operators to meet their unrealistic deadlines and take on more freight for less or they face the risk of

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23

losing their contracts and the ability to support their families.

It appears the government does not care.

28 There are unsafe vehicles, dodgy licences, poor payment times, wage and superannuation theft – just a few of the many things we have called for to be stopped.

A reminder to governments and the transport industry clients: the industry that has kept Australia moving during the pandemic is facing an uphill battle.

Employer groups should be standing alongside transport workers to unite for a safer and fairer industry.

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T E L L E R

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policy that should be keeping safe one of the most dangerous industries in Australia.

To quote one truck driver turned Australian senator, 24 “a death at work 25 Glenn Sterle, or on the road should not be the price of doing business”.

The TWU puts it to govern29 ments that we must stop the inequality that exists between truck drivers and clients.

30must be paid proper Drivers rates, owner-drivers must be able to trust they will be paid properly for the work they do and on time. Families depend on this.

Many of the ongoing problems that occur are down to the big clients squeezing our

Down: 1 Foe, 2 Spider, 3 Taro, 4 Rod, 5 Ideal, 6 Vat, 7 Turned, 10 Mien, 13 Lag, 14 Teller, 16 Lee, 17 United, 18 Role, 20 Above, 23 Visa, 25 Map, 26 Nee, 28 Met.

THIS is the end of an era, the last TWU column in the trusted transport industry publication Big Rigs.

Over the years the TWU and Big Rigs have played their parts in the role of keeping the top end of town accountable and doing our bit to look out for the rights of the little guy.

It’s still about the voice that speaks out for the truck driver,

the owner and the employee.

It’s been the voice that calls out for fair pay for the work you do, for safety in the drivers’ cab and on the road, the voice that seeks to relieve the pressure on the driver pushed by clients’ incessant cries for increased productivity for the same rates and conditions.

It is obvious we still have a long way to go – we have been through countless road, freight and transport ministers and nothing changes.

Truck drivers are still dying at work.

It’s a pretty safe bet to say this is due to the lack of strong government policy in place,

A final reminder to all Big Down Rigs 1 readers: Enemy now is the time to unite, now is the time to ensure 2 Arachnid equality in this industry.

3 Together Edible rootstock we can stand on 4

Fishing pole working to common ground 5 Perfect ensure the government contin6 toLarge tank ues support transport work7 and Revolved ers the industry they support.

10 Bearing TWU will continue to 13The Convict voice the of transport 14 Bankneeds employee workers to thesideemployers, 16 Sheltered their industry bodies and the 17 Combined clients.

18Better Acting part standards mean job 20 Over security and ultimately a safer 23 fairer Passport endorsement and industry for all.

25We Atlas item can lift the standards we 26 Born need together – our lives depend it.

28 on Encountered

More Trailer For Your Money

WHAT’S ON 41

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

Save these dates in 2022

other truck make owners, suppliers, sponsors of the WA transport industry to come out and get involved in the day and raise money for a cure to cancer. Entry is $10 for adults, and kids under 16 are free.

After being cancelled last September, the Alexandra Truck, Ute and Rod Show will return to its usual date on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend.

The Boyup Brook Ute and Truck Muster will be held together with the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival.

AFTER so much uncertainty over the last couple of years, it’s encouraging to see that more truck shows are resurfacing from their Covid-enforced hiatus.

But please double-check the dates below with the event’s official site or Facebook page as they can often still change at short notice, as we have sadly seen in recent weeks.

If you have an event you’d like included in the next event

calendar, please email all the details to editor@bigrigs.com.au.

We’d love to hear from you.

FEBRUARY Boyup Brook Ute and Truck Muster February 19-20 Boyup Brook, WA Visit: countrymusicwa.com. au/ute-truck-muster Held together with the Boyup Brook Country Music Festival, this muster aims to celebrate

Aussie vehicles with an impressive display. New artist line-up includes the Phil Wally Stack Band, Lee Forster, Kathy Carver with Desert Road Band, Codee Lee and Band and the little Lord Street Band.

Lancefield Truck Display February 26-27 Lancefield Showgrounds, VIC Visit: lancefield.org.au/truckshow/ The American Truck His-

torical Society – Australian Chapter will host this heritage truck display, complete with live music, catering and club merchandise. A special dinner will also be held onsite on the Saturday night. All trucks are welcome.

MARCH Convoy for Kids Sydney March 20 Sydney, NSW Visit: convoyforkids.com. au Since the first Convoy for Kids Sydney in 1992, truckies have raised nearly $3 million for kids’ charities and hos-

pitals in NSW. The upcoming convoy will start from Huntingwood and arrive at Hawkesbury Showground in Clarendon for a fun-filled family day with rides, entertainment, food and stalls.

MAY WA Mack Muster May 22 Whitby, WA Visit: facebook.com/ wamackmuster All proceeds and fundraising will be donated to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research for Cancer. The aim is to encourage all Mack, and

JUNE Alexandra Truck, Ute and Rod Show June 12 Alexandra, Victoria Visit: alexandratruckshow. com.au With the September 2021 event cancelled, the Alexandra Truck, Ute & Rod Show will return to its usual date on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June, 2022. Sunday Show ‘n Shine on Alexandra’s main street. Be early on Saturday for the local markets, convoy and truck driver’s memorial service at 2pm and sponsors’ dinner at 6pm.

AUGUST Megatrans August 14-16 (date change from February 16-18) Melbourne Exhibition Centre Visit: megatrans.com.au MEGATRANS is an integrated trade exhibition and conference showcasing the full freight and logistics supply chain, spanning warehousing and logistics, through to multimodal freight and final mile delivery.

ONLY THE TOUGHEST GEAR

TO BE WORN BY THE TOUGHEST TRUCKS The WA Mack Muster encourages the industry to come together to help raise money for cancer research.

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42 CAREERS AND TRAINING

FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Apprentices on the right path

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

IN an effort to attract more young diesel mechanics into the industry, Simon National Carriers has launched a Year 12 Career Pathways Program.

Assistant national fleet manager at Simon’s, Scott Horwood, initiated the program with St Peter Claver College in Ipswich, with three apprentices from the school now in their second year at the company’s Brisbane warehouse, completing their Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanics. And there are plans in place to replicate the program with other states too, with a Melbourne school eager to come on board.

“There is a big gap with people wanting to come in and work in the transport industry, particularly to become apprentices and tradesmen, so I thought we should reach out to local schools in the community to try and find a solution,” said Horwood.

“When I was younger, the market was flooded with kids that wanted to be apprentices, now it’s the total opposite. They either don’t want to be apprentices, or they do and are unaware of the opportunities out

THE CURRENT APPRENTICES ARE LOVING IT – YOU CAN SEE IT IN THEIR FACES. THEY ARE THRILLED WITH THE OPPORTUNITY THEY’VE BEEN GIVEN AND HOW SUPPORTIVE SIMON’S HAS BEEN IN TAKING THEM ON BOARD AND GIVING THEM THIS EXPERIENCE.” NICOLE BURKE

Apprentices James Hamm, Hayden Tinsley and Billy Mason joined Simon National Carriers through the Year 12 Career Pathways Program.

there. Back then, you could leave school and get an apprenticeship, but now it’s frowned upon not to finish Year 12.”

Through the Pathways Program, Year 12 students can come into the business and begin their apprenticeship while completing high school. The school-based

apprenticeship involves one day a week in the workshop, with the potential to go full time on school holidays.

As apprentices complete their training, it will open the door for more new apprentices to come through the business.

“As well as apprentices, we also have work experience

opportunities too. We’ve had a work experience student named Mitch work with us in 2021 and he has aspirations to become an apprentice. We have a fourth year apprentice who is almost fully qualified, and then Mitch will be able to come in and do his apprenticeship too,” added Horwood, who

knows firsthand the opportunities available at Simon’s.

Now 35, Horwood came into the business as a trade’s assistant and worked his way up, completing his heavy vehicle mechanic apprenticeship and working his way into a management role.

“Identifying the lack of young people coming into

the industry and establishing a relationship with a local school was the first step, now we’re planning to work with other schools too,” said Horwood.

National training and development co-ordinator at Simon’s, Nicole Burke, is leading the charge to expand and replicate the program in other states, as well as introduce further programs and training opportunities to attract more people into the business – and the industry.

“There are shortages in every trade. When you have people who don’t want to train and just want to do their own work, you’re going to have a shortage. Scott reached out to a local school here to see if we could take

Easter Group Pty Ltd 73 Formation St, Wacol Easter Group, located in Wacol, provides time sensitive road transporting solutions to many companies throughout Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. .

We are a family owned business, operating since 1976.

We currently have the following positions available:

OPERATIONS ALLOCATORS (Brisbane based only)

You will be required to work on a rotating roster including Days-Nights-Weekends Previous Operations experience preferred.

MC LOCAL & LINEHAUL DRIVERS WANTED

(Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide Based) Come and work for us as we are committed to: • Training and further education • Your safety • Maintaining an impressive Fleet On offer are permanent full time and roster positions including paid leave entitlements and public holidays. Drivers will need to be available to be scheduled for work falling across the 7 days of the week.

The successful Applicant will: • Hold a current MC licence (minimum two years) • Have knowledge of the HVNL and Load Restraint • Be professional • Be reliable

We’re currently hiring drivers in multiple locations across Australia.

To apply for the Operations/Driver positions please contact Operations Manager or by emailing your resume to

WORKSHOP MECHANICS & TYRE FITTERS WANTED (Brisbane based only)

To apply for Mechanic positions please forward your resume to Workshop Manager via email to employment@kseaster.com.au

CAREERS AND TRAINING 43

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JANUARY 21 2022

to success

on some apprentices; so I thought, let’s try and get this across all states, not just Brisbane. The Year 12 Career Pathways Program was a combination of everybody wanting to do the same thing and contribute.

Everybody had a different piece of the puzzle, we’ve put it all together and this is where we’re at,” Burke said.

Simon’s now has its sights firmly set on Melbourne. “We’ve been trying to get some school-based apprentices through our

Melbourne workshop but it’s been particularly hard there with Covid restrictions and school closures.

A formal program is underway in Brisbane, and it will hopefully be underway in Melbourne soon too,” said Burke.

“The current apprentices are loving it – you can see it in their faces. They are thrilled with the opportunity they’ve been given and how supportive Simon’s has been in taking them on board and giving them this experience.”

At the Brisbane workshop, there are also currently four work experience students, taken on from as early as Year 9. “Once they get in, if we can keep them through to Year 12, then they can do the Year 12 school-based apprenticeship,” Burke added.

As well as expanding into other states, Burke says the Year 12 Career Pathways Program will also be expanded to incorporate allocator and other admin roles.

Following the success of the program in Brisbane, Simon’s plans to expand it into other states.

High achieving dual trade apprentice scores big win KOMATSU heavy commercial industries apprentice Sam Gray has won the Heavy Commercial Industries Apprentice of the Year award at the annual TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Apprentice Awards.

Held at the W Hotel in Brisbane’s CBD, the night celebrated the achievements of 37 apprentices who were selected as finalists from over 9000 TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech apprentices across 13 award categories and trade areas.

Gray, 26, says he is proud of his achievement and grateful to be recognised amongst so many other worthy finalists.

“It was a bit of shock and I really wasn’t expecting to win it but it feels really great,” he said.

Gray was nominated for his dedication to his studies and the high level of existing knowledge and skill that he brings to the classroom.

He also takes a lead role in helping other students as well as encouraging comradery amongst fellow Komatsu apprentices.

Having already completed a Certificate III in Electrotechnology, Gray has now chosen to complete a Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology to set himself up for the future.

His decision to pursue a dual trade was heavily influenced by his father who currently works in the mining industry as multi-skilled operator.

Sam Gray was nominated for his dedication to his studies and the high level of existing knowledge and skill that he brings to the classroom.

“Dad talked to me about what’s happening in the mining industry with everything moving to hybrid and electric drive as companies try to chase more efficient ways of working.

After doing some research and talking to people in industry I saw the opportunity to become dual qualified as a way of future proofing my career,” Gray said.

TAFE Queensland teacher Joe Janecek says Gray shows a great deal of maturity and ambition in deciding to do a second apprenticeship to place himself at the forefront of the battery electric vehicle and mobile plant industry, which is evolving rapidly.

“By having a dual trade in electrotechnology and mobile plant technology, his specialised skillset will be very desirable as more companies adapt to the new technologies that are being introduced across Australia,” Janecek said.

“Sam’s got some real potential and it’s great that he’s been recognised as the apprentice of the year in the industry that he’s so passionate about.”

Gray’s award category was sponsored by Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia who has been a strong supporter of TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech and the annual apprentice awards.

Bitumen Sub Contractor TheTanker Opportunity

Fulton Hogan Transport currently have a vacancy for a tanker owner driver to join our transport team based out of Dry Creek in South Australia. Reporting to the WA/SA Transport Manager, your primary duty will be the transportation   of bitumen products to our plants and customers.

The Opportunity

Fulton Hogan Transport currently have a vacancy for a tanker owner driver to join our transport team based out of Dry Creek in South Australia.

Reporting to the WA/SA Transport Manager, your primary duty will be the transportation of bitumen products to our plants and customers.

You will be Responsible for

Adhering to all Safety procedures to operate the Tanker Ability to work efficiently and effectively to deadlines

   

Accurate completion of all trip paperwork Work in accordance with all Fatigue Laws

You will be Responsible for • Adhering to all Safety procedures to operate the Tanker   • Ability to work efficiently and effectively to   deadlines  • Accurate completion of all trip paperwork • Work in accordance with all Fatigue Laws • Ability to work as part of a small team • Delivering hot bitumen to required sites and ensuring all safety regulations are adhered to during transportation Ability to work as part of a small team

Delivering hot bitumen to required sites and ensuring all safety regulations are adhered to during transportation

What we need from you?

Dangerous Goods License MC Driver License

Experience in the Asphalt industry an advantage

Willingness to travel and work away when required

White Prime Mover (Late Model) capable of towing a B-Double or Double Road Train

We Offer     

Continuous work Fulton Hogan Transport will provide training and all specialised PPE. Remuneration is paid twice monthly.

If you are willing to work the opportunity is there to develop a very profitable and sustainable business for yourself.

Fixed term cartage contract

What we need from you?

• Dangerous Goods License • MC Driver License • Experience in the Asphalt industry an advantage • Willingness to travel and work away when required • White Prime Mover (Late Model) capable of towing a B-Double or Double Road Train

Fulton Hogan Philosophy

We build and maintain critical infrastructure that connects and enhances communities across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. Everything from roads and bridges, to airports and utilities. We're committed to ensuring the Good Work we do will make a positive difference to the quality of life for our people, our customers and the communities we all call home. Our continued success relies on generating new and diverse ideas, which is why our 'Good Work' culture encourages ownership and empowerment, while never forgetting the importance of balancing life's priorities.

We Offer • Continuous work • Fulton Hogan Transport will provide training and all specialised PPE. • Remuneration is paid twice monthly.

• If you are willing to work the opportunity is there to develop a very profitable and sustainable business for yourself.

• Fixed term cartage contract

Sound like you?

Stef’s Transport Millicent are looking for an experienced road train / B-triple driver and tow operators to join our friendly professional team Requirements for Company B-triple driver MC license BFM Road Train – B-triple experience required Preferably based in Southeast SA but will consider other regions for the right driver

Regular set run with modern, well-maintained equipment MILLICENT – BRISBANE – ADELAIDE – MILLICENT This position is full time and weekend work is required.

If this sounds like and you would like to help build on our Good Work culture, then we would like to hear from you.

In the First instance please contact Peter.Hug@fultonhogan.com.au WA/SA Transport Manager

Fulton Hogan Philosophy We build and maintain critical infrastructure that connects and enhances communities across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. Everything from roads and bridges, to airports and utilities. We’re committed to ensuring the Good Work we do will make a positive difference to the quality of life for our people, our customers and the communities we all call home. Our continued success relies on generating new and diverse ideas, which is why our ‘Good Work’ culture encourages ownership and empowerment, while never forgetting the importance of balancing life’s priorities.

Sound like you?

If this sounds like and you would like to help build on our Good Work culture, then we would like to hear from you.

In the First instance please contact Peter.Hug@fultonhogan.com.au WA/SA Transport Manager

B/Double Tow operators can be based in SA, Victoria, NSW, or QLD

Tow operators are required for interstate work on East Coast, towing modern well maintained 4.6mt high cube 26mt B/Doubles We are also looking for Full Rig Subcontractors with the following • 4.6 drop deck B/Double tautliners • 4.3 drop deck B/Double tautliners If you are interested in joining our team or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the below.

DARRYL JONES

JOHN VICKERY

0419 278 530 darryl.jones@stefstransport.net.au

0419 051 557 john.vickery@stefstransport.net.au

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