Big Rigs Mar 05, 2021

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2 NEWS

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 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 REPORTER Danielle Gullaci danielle.gullaci@primecreative.com.au 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 Tassie Truckin: Jon Wallis, 0414 797 513 Truckin in the Topics: Alf Wilson, 0408 009 301 Brent Davison; David Vile; David Meredith; Ian Lee Big Rigs National Road Transport Newspaper is published by Prime Creative Media. All material is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or means. The opinions expressed in Big Rigs are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher.

New CEO launches mental health plan

BY JAMES GRAHAM

SEVEN months after it launched with a $600,000 kick-start from the federal government, Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds (HHTS) is close to rolling out the industry’s first ‘over-arching’ mental health plan.

New CEO Naomi Frauenfelder told Big Rigs that at the end of March HHTS plans to release a single strategy for the transport and logistics industry, and underneath that will sit guidelines that organisations of all sizes can take on.

“So they can look at what they’re doing and do a bit of gap analysis against what best practice is determined to be,” said Frauenfelder, a former Executive Director at TrackSAFE, a charity set up to prevent suicides and reduce accidents and injuries on the rail network.

“They can then see where they need to fill the gap and where they can be implementing the guidelines across the organisation.”

Frauenfelder said that

in conjunction with the release of the HHTS Industry Blueprint Strategy, National Framework, Guidelines and Charter the not-for-profit will also distribute a series of pocket guides for frontline staff.

“Whether you’re a truck driver or a shed worker, it’ll have educational material and helpful tips for looking after yourself, and looking after your own mental health.”

The guidelines will be free to view on the HHTS website, but Frauenfelder said the pocket books are available to members for a “nominal fee”.

“We’re currently working on a membership system that will reveal what can be made to individual truckies for the lowest possible cost.

“We’re not here to make a profit, but we’ve got to be able to cover what we’re investing in terms of developing the resources.”

That spend includes a three-year partnership with AP Psychology & Consulting Services for the development of an “evidence-based framework to inform the de-

annis, managing director of the consultancy service.

HHTS has also recently partnered with Griffith University in an 18-month research project funded by the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) to better understand the effects of mental health and wellbeing, psychosocial factors, distraction and fatigue and the role these factors play in crashes and injury.

The foundation says the need for a comprehensive investigation into mental health is long overdue with nearly one in two workers experiencing a mental health issue.

Frauenfelder tells Big Rigs that there are also plans for a free industry-specific support line through Lifeline to be staffed by ex-industry workers.

“So that when a driver is out on the road and needs support, they can actually speak to someone who has had the same experiences.”

Fraunfelder said HHTS is also developing a free app

New HHTS CEO Naomi Frauenfelder.

sign and development of the HHTS initiative into the future to address industry-wide risk factors and structural challenges”.

“APPCS has been on a journey with HHTS for over two years, having been engaged by the HHTS steering committee prior to the launch of the foundation as mental health subject matter experts, and to provide an overview of current approaches to mental health initiatives across the sector,” said Arthur Papagi-

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NHVR slowing EWD uptake, says developer

BY JAMES GRAHAM

THE makers of the most cost effective NHVR-approved EWD say the regulator is taking too long to provide access to drivers and the industry by continuing to limit its use to just 12 devices.

Smart eDriver Product Manager Ian Johnson told Big Rigs that the NHVR tested its platform to 100 per cent of the standard on September 17 last year.

This same app is capable of accommodating over 2700 different android device but is currently limited to just 12.

If the NHVR was to remove the restriction of just 12 specific devices it means that the $23-per-month Android-powered EWD could be downloaded from the Google Play Store on to more than 2700 compatible smartphones or tablets, that meet the minimum system requirement.

“According to the NHVR, they’re not ready to approve a downloadable app-only EWD; that’s all they’ve told us,” said Johnson, the product manager for the Smart eDriver.

“All that’s doing is limiting the use of an EWD to Individual driver and smaller operators.

With the Smart eDriver, when a driver moves from written to EWD, it’s on their phone and they can take it with them, as the diary is the property of the Driver at the end of the day.

“With the other NHVR approved EWD systems the hardware is part of a full telematics system, so it makes it very hard for compliance and accessibility to the smaller operators and for the drivers changing jobs.”

Johnson said that a full demonstration was given to the NHVR that demonstrated the robustness of the Agnostic Smart eDriver EWD for both drivers and compliance officers.

“We don’t have to do any changes to the app to go from having 12 devices approved to 2700.”

The Smart eDriver launched on December 1 and is now one of four official EWD alternatives to the written diary, along with the Teletrac Navman Sentinel, Netstar EWD Garmin Fleet 7XX Series and MTData’s Talon and Swift.

NEWS 3

The Smart eDriver app is only approved for use on 12 devices so far.

High-profile truckie Trevor Warner – aka The Drivers Advocate – told us in our last issue that he’d been trialling the Smart eDriver since early December.

“So far I have found it easy to use and has reduced my wasted or stolen work time by eliminating the rounding up/ down of time,” said Warner.

“I quickly realised the bene-

fits of this and ditched the paper work diary.”

An NHVR spokesperson told us that it’s working closely with providers to provide more EWD options for operators so they can adopt the technology that is right for them and their business.

“For an EWD to be approved it must meet rigorous safety standards and can only

be approved if it allows an authorised officer to carry out their regulatory functions.

“It’s important that drivers check the NHVR website to ensure they’re using an approved EWD.” At the time of deadline for this issue the regulator had only sanctioned the Smart eDriver for use on the following devices:

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02NEWS NEWS 4

FRIDAY JUNE 12 2020 BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Driver lobby group loses a slew of top executives CONTACT US

Address: Cnr Mayne Road and Campbell St, Bowen Hills, QLD 4006 Phone: 1300 877 017 Fax: (07) 3220 6364 Email: info@bigrigs.com.au Web: bigrigs.com.au Accounts: Phone 1300 130 590, Fax (07) 5456 6955 Subscriptions: 1300 877 017 Classifieds: 13 11 13 Circulation and distribution queries: 1300 361 604 retailer@newsregionalmedia.com.au BY JAMES GRAHAM EDITOR James Graham: (07) 3817 1722 SELF-ANOINTED truckies’ james.graham@bigrigs.com.au campaigner, United Transport REPORTER Group (UTG), Kate Dodd: (07) 3817has 1754undergone akate.dodd@bigrigs.com.au series of major management shake-ups MANAGER since its launch just six Petermonths Hockings ago. high-profile (07)Five 3817 1818/0410 334 371 industry identities turned on their heels peter.hockings@bigrigs.com.au within weeks of the not-forMEDIA SALES CONSULTANT profit’s Michael Kiddunofficial formation last August Rox(07) 3817 1804/due 0439to 130CEO 416 anne Mysko’s insistence that michael.kidd@bigrigs.com.au they sign CONSULTANT a confidentiality MEDIA SALES agreement.

Marie O’Reilly: (07) 3817 1755 Since then, UTG has strugmarie.oreilly@bigrigs.com.au gled to retain stability amongst BOOKINGS & COPY SUPPORT its hierarchy with Big Rigs Katharine Causer: (07) 3817 1711 aware of at least five further bookings@bigrigs.com.au departures from the top.

CONTRIBUTORS Executive advisory team Tassie Truckin: Jon Wallis, members 0412 797 513 Adam Craig and Clynton both quit Truckin in theHawkes Tropics: Alf Wilson, soon after, 0408 009 301 followed by board member Shane Eyres andDavid more Brent Davison; Graham Harsant; recently fellow Joel board Vile; David Meredith; Helmesmem-

ber Colin Dyne and Darren Delaney, another high-profile Big Rigs National Road Transport member of its advisory team.

Newspaper is published by News Corp Although Dyne and Australia.

Big Rigs isboth the largest circulated Delaney say they are gagged by fortnightly truck publication in Australia confidentiality Big Rigs with 26,023* copiesclauses, per fortnight. has learned from sources *12 month average, publisher’s claim that they struck November 2018 similar governance issues as their predecessors.

ATA keeps drivers moving

TOGETHER with Big Rigs, port for NSW sign posting seen for the campaign and the ATA has been pressing that the toilet facilities were truck drivers has been enerbusinesses and rest areas to not being serviced,” Mr Ma- gising. Australia has really backed the trucking industry keep their facilities open to guire said.

“Following the visit, we and is recognising the imsupport the truck drivers who are keeping Australia pressed Transport for NSW portant role it plays in our moving as we face the on the matter, who quickly daily lives,” Mr Maguire said.

Through its membership COVID-19 epidemic and re- saw the error of their ways and advised that the issue of ACCI, the ATA worked covery process.

“Australia’s truck drivers would be promptly ad- with Safe Work Australia to Mysko did not return re- achieve aims and objectives together in transport so there sure its cleaning and are working hard to deliver dressed. quests for comment about the of a corporation, group or make “is a one stop shop for support “We are now pleased to hygiene guidance for the the food, medicine and esrecent departures by deadline association, decisions need to and as a powerful voice to govgoods we need to get report that these rest area fa- trucking industry and its for sential this issue. be collective decision and un- ernment for better operating through this epidemic, but cilities are once again open customers was on target.

“There was a huge differ- fortunately that was never the conditions, less regulations, “The original Safe Work and being serviced.” enceunfortunately of opinion dueweto heard the dic-of case.” reductions in fines & sustainThe campaign has also Australia information was truck stops, roadhouses and tatorial manner in which the Funded by annual mem- able industry changes in regubusinesses that were shut- had success in Dubbo and either too vague or was CEO is running things,” said berships that start from $100 lations to provide fairness for off their facilities to the surrounding region – an aimed at health care workoneting insider. per annum, the group claims operations”. drivers,” ATA CEO Ben Ma- important intersection of ers,” Mr Maguire said.

“If you want a group of in its online mission statement Yet, aside from the alleged “As a result of our input, key freight routes. Lobbying guire said. people working with you to that it aims to bring everyone formation of industry specific Mr Maguire said the efforts from the ATA and there is now excellent guidATA’s first call out was Pa- members saw council re- ance material available for cific National, who had open several rest area facili- road freight operators on the Safe Work Australia webbanned truck drivers from its ties within the township.

“The support we have site.” toilets, changerooms and kitchens.

“Within hours of our team pressing the matter, Pacific National reversed the decision and reopened their amenities. This quick and positive response demonstrated an understanding of the important role truck drivers play in their supply chain,” Mr Maguire said.

During a trip down the Hume Highway in the ATA’s SafeT360 truck in early May, Mr Maguire saw the impact of the facility closures first-hand.

“When stopping at the FACILITIES NOW OPEN: Thanks to the campaign and the push Partridge VC rest area, I was from Big Rigs and the ATA, Transport for NSW is fixing the Roxanne Mysko,to(pictured main andfacilities inset), said she’sasanpossible. experienced road train driver and Telstra astonished see a Transas soon Picture: ATA Business Woman of the Year finalist.

groups to better inform the collective voice of the naboard of specific issues, and tion’s truckies is the answer to two recent submissions by effecting positive changes.

NHVR PORTAL: There are huge benefits to using the portal.

Mysko to the Senate inquiry “I believed that I could Picture: Contributed into the road transport indus- offer some form of direction try, the UTG’s profile seems and leadership with my ownlimited to its modest Face- er personal networks, and book following. collectively, if we all did the When Big Rigs offered same, we might even just hit to help promote the UTG’s a run and put a score on the new recruits last November board.

– shortly after the first reshuf“Even one score on the fle – by profiling Craig we board is better than none.”

NHVAS customers have been mation, reviewing application received a sharp rebuke from Craig also told Big Rigs using the benefits of the status, reviewing driver and veMysko, who spruiks herself as that he was keen to be part of NHVR Portal since last No- hicle lists and tracking audit a road train driver, consultant, a breakaway group along the vember and most have now associated responsibilities.

CoR expert and Telstra Busi- same lines.

From Wednesday, July 1, made the transition to the diginess Woman of the Year final“We will end up start2020, all NHVAS applications tal platform. ist in a lengthy CV. ing something to ensure NHVR safety standards and and transaction will be re“No I will not be singling the transport industry that assurance manager (accredita- quired to be lodged via the any one member out for you change is made,” he said. tion) Darrin Rasmussen said NHVR Portal, rather than by to write a story on, it’s about “We all got involved with there were significant benefits email.

UTG actually,” she wrote in a it [UTG] thinking it would you are an existing to submitting of applications lengthy email. be Ifsomething really good for through the portal, including NHVR Portal user or have an “Your [sic] very offensive to the industry. The industry reducing data re-entry and Access, Registration or Vehicle all 10 of us. Least there is not really does need a governing providing greater customer Standards account, the NHVR person in new team or the 10 body of people in the indusvisibility of accreditation mod- Portal administrators on the people causing zero dramas. try doing the job, being a ules and case tracking activi- account have not changed.

“I’m not interested in your voice for the industry.

Any additional Accreditaties. bias view actually.

“People want change – I He said the NHVR Portal tion contacts can be added to “Sure seen you promote want to get more young peoprovided operators with the the account with “user submitMike Williams, ATA and ple involved and get more ability to manage all their ter” permissions. other associations.” training programs set up for If you need any assistance NHVAS records, including A disillusioned Colin younger drivers as well, so it submitting an application, call the NHVR Portal Help Dyne later told us he still changes the stigma of what a managing account infor- Centre on 1300 696 487. believes that harnessing the truck driver is.”

New NHVR Portal changes are here

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

Truckie to receive $1 million payout after work injury

A truck driver who became permanently incapacitated as the result of a back injury from a defective driver’s seat will receive nearly $1 million in compensation, after appealing the original sum.

Daniel Peebles was working for Kurtz Transport, when in 2014, at the age of 32, he suffered a spinal disc protrusion or herniation due to the negligence of his employer, which required him to drive a truck with a defective driver’s seat.

Peebles’ compensation lawyer Hugh Powell, from Travis Schultz & Partners, took the case to trial in 2020 and said the original judgement confirmed his employer’s negligence but awarded damages which seemed inadequate given the circumstances of Peebles’ case.

The original payout sum of $764,345 was awarded by the Brisbane Supreme Court in early 2020; but following the successful appeal, Peebles will now receive $967,052.

Despite the seven-year battle now being over, the case has taken a significant mental toll on Peebles.

“I’ve thought about tak-

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ing my own life several times throughout this process and if it wasn’t for my support network, I might not be here.

I’d like to thank my family, friends, legal team for their genuine support and persistence in helping me to achieve some sort of a positive outcome.”

Peebles hoped more employers see this and realise they need to be more accountable for the welfare of their

Since sustaining his back injury in 2014, Daniel Peebles has gone through a lengthy fight for justice, and it’s taken a mental toll on him too.

employees. “Many transport companies spruik their high standards of care to employees and yet, my experience is that it’s nonsense. This injury is a

lifetime sentence.”

Peebles added that a duty of care to employees should be paramount. “Many transport companies spruik their

high duties of care of employees and yet, my experience is that its hearsay. Directors and owners of transport companies need to put their people before profits. The buck stops with the director/owner of a company. Proactive and practical safety measures are required, rather than just looking at paperwork.

“Employers need to be mindful of the need to undertake maintenance on plant and equipment like this because spending a few dollars to keep it in good order can save a lot at the back end. It can also avoid life-changing consequences for workers like me.”

His lawyer Powell added that the appeal was about ensuring Peebles was adequately compensated for his permanent injury.

“Dan Peebles’ career came to an abrupt halt when he suffered a significant injury to his back and he is continuing to undergo extensive rehabilitation, including expensive spinal cord simulation,” Powell said.

“What’s interesting about this case is the Court of Appeal decided to reduce the extent

Lawyer Hugh Powell, from Travis Schultz & Partners.

of discounting on awards of damages which had been applied by the primary judge, thereby increasing the award for Mr Peebles.

“It’s pleasing to see that a deserving plaintiff like Mr Peebles, who was found to have suffered permanent injury as a result of no fault of his own, is to be awarded fair compensation for the life changing consequences.

“This case, where you have a trial and the result is overturned on an appeal, is a good example of how our justice system has checks and balances to ensure that justice is done at the end of the day.”

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FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Special delivery for proud family-owned operation

It’s not the largest combination bearing the distinctive Nolan’s logo, but this stunning new pairing commands pride of place.

With its core values of Innovate, Progress and Evolve emblazoned on the side, the new combo is a fitting monument to Nolan’s willingness to embrace change through the years.

ALTHOUGH red tape held up its launch, it was well worth the wait for a proud Flea Nolan when he sent the pride of the fleet – an imposing new FH XXL Globetrotter – on its maiden run to Sydney last month.

The 50,000th Volvo made at the Wacol plant is an

eye-catching rolling billboard that stands out from the pack with its hand-painted, scrolls, strips and imagery deftly showcasing the company’s origins back to 1908.

Today, with its Performance-Based Standard (PBS) high-tech split quad refrigerated semi-trailer finally in

tow, it’s a fitting testament to how far Nolan’s Transport has come.

“We sort of made the trailer to suit the truck, so it was a very proud moment when it all got together and on the road,” conceded the fifth-generation Nolan, who runs the massive operation alongside

The 50,000th Volvo from Wacol plant is now the pride of the Nolan’s large fleet.

mother Daphne and brother Darren.

“I know other companies are out there with the same combinations so it’s not a first for the industry.

“I suppose what is unique is that the trailer came the same time as the 50,000th Volvo.

“It looks smart and I’ve had plenty of people ring me

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about it.”

Flea Nolan said the truck will run non-stop to Sydney from the company’s Gatton and Brisbane depots, with two drivers rotating on four-

COVER STORY 7

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 days on, four-days off shifts.

Although smaller than the B-double that would normally ply this route for Nolan’s – a 28 pallet capacity vs 34 – Nolan said the FTE designed and built PBS split quad punches well above its weight.

For starters, it’s a lot cheaper to run with its increased fuel efficiency and lower rego costs.

It also trumps a B-double when it comes to turnaround times, and with a mass limit of 55-tonnes, the combination easily has as much payload.

“The numbers should stack up alright at the end of the day considering we haven’t got the cost of an extra van and fridge motor cost,” said Nolan.

“It’s just about trying to eliminate the B-doubles from Sydney without compromising on tare weight, length and pallet spacing. We had a quad 26-palleter prior to this.”

In fact the only knock on the new combination was the inordinate time for approvals, an element he was glad he could handball over to Melbourne-based Smedley’s Engineers.

The only end-to-end PBS consultancy in Australia, Smedley’s takes care of all the paperwork in-house and has worked with Nolan’s on all its previous PBS sorties which include a A-double – two FTE tri-axle trailers spec’d at 22-pallet capacity – and two FTE tri-axle trailers (22-pallet) paired with a Volvo FH16.

Scott Buchholz, Flea Nolan, Daphne Nolan, Darren Nolan, and VGA CEO and President Martin Merrick at the historic handover of the milestone Volvo.

The new split quad semi, however, presented a unique challenge all of its own, admits Smedley’s Managing Director Robert Smedley.

With NSW green-lighting PBS access routes in its typically expeditious manner, it seemed just a formality for Queensland to follow suit, until that is someone in a local council got their hands on the paperwork.

“There is a standard called the maximum of difference, which says that the frontal swing of the trailer is not allowed to be .4m greater than the frontal swing of the truck,” explained Smedley.

“The idea is that when a truck driver is turning a corner he can have the con-

fidence that the trailer is not going to collect a telegraph pole, or something like that.

“The funny thing is, most

ADR vehicles fail this standard, especially vehicles that do not have a bull bar.”

Accordingly, Smedley said

the new Nolan’s pairing was assessed without a bullbar but was given an exemption by the NHVR and TMR because it passed most tests by a reasonable margin.

“But what happened was that one of the local councils in Far North Queensland picked up on this and weren’t happy about it.

“We then went back to them and said this vehicle performs better than any B-double on the road. If this vehicle can’t get around this corner, then you need to stop all B-double going around that corner.

“They just couldn’t see the logic and put the pieces together.

“Eventually the TMR and NHVR coached them through the issue. I’ve got to say the TMR and NHVR bent over backwards to get it to happen.

“The issue was the local jurisdiction not understanding

The milestone truck was the perfect vehicle for the Nolans to celebrate their long and proud history.

what they were doing; what they were deciding on and the implications of it.

“It was a very hard six to eight weeks.”

Now the first one’s on the road, Nolan is hoping for smoother sailing with the five follow-up split quads he’s ordered from FTE this year.

Although he says he’s “not getting carried away” with the PBS benefits just yet, he clearly sees the upsides.

“I think it’s got its merits,” he said.

“There seems to be less and less drivers in the industry too, so we’ve got to work out how we can do it a lot more efficiently with less trucks on the road, and safer combinations.

“It seems to be that even though the combinations are getting bigger, the safety-ness is still there, if not better.”

The only impediment that Nolan can foresee for PBS uptake is the unnecessary approval headaches, an issue Smedley said is systemic in Victoria.

“If we can get all states on board with this PBS instead of so much red tape the industry would be a lot better,” said Nolan.

“That’s what holds us back. It goes from state to state, then you have all the bridge assessments and all that sort of stuff.

“With today’s technology, it shouldn’t be that hard.

It’s about getting food to the plate, and the longer they hold people up from doing things, the less we can cart.”

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8 OPINION

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

We thought we’d lost you

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

HOPEFULLY by the time you read this, you’re back enjoying our stories and essential information on your Facebook feed.

For a few unsettling days, we’d been needlessly caught up in a baffling fight between the Morrison government, the major mainstream media and Mark Zuckerberg.

No one asked us if we wanted to be part of a thing called a media bargaining code.

Instead, we woke up on Thursday, February 18 – a day we won’t forget in a hurry – to the news that we’d been cut off from our 59,000 followers.

Never mind that we are the conduit to vital safety and wellbeing information to the nation’s essential frontline workers. No, we just got lumped in with everyone else.

Now would be an opportune time to also remind you to sign up for our regular newsletters. Plus, you can also follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter, and of course do still keep visiting bigrigs.com.au.

But we get it – you love using Facebook…and so do we.

Win-win.

It might not work in footy, but it’s the only way we play.

We’ve always understood the strength of partnerships that work for everyone. Win-win has underpinned the success of our Members and Preferred Suppliers since day one.

Join the team and you can share in that same success.

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10 NEWS

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Survey aims to simplify crash investigation process

BY JAMES GRAHAM

DARREN Delaney has walked up one too many driveways without the answers that truckies’ friends and families so desperately need after tragedies on our roads.

Frustrated by the

multi-agency investigation system we currently have, one that doesn’t always seek to find root causes for truck crashes, Delaney needs your help.

As part of his Doctoral research project at CQUniversity, the safety academic is aiming to create one simple model

so anybody – the insurer, regulator, police, whomever – can look at the results and see what actually caused the accident.

The first stage of that process is a survey he’s just launched that invites truckies to have their say, without revealing their identity.

Researcher Darren Delaney is hoping to develop a standardised accident investigation tool that can be used by all the relevant agencies.

“This survey is intended to get the truck driver’s view into the accident investigation process and to see if those most impacted can provide suggestions into what would improve the investigation to discover what contributed to or caused the accident in the first place,” said Delaney.

“These factors usually fall outside the scope of a standard investigation.

“There are many problems with accident investigation into trucks; specifically understanding why accident investigations only look at the truck driver and the vehicle they drive and never seem to look for the reason an accident happened in the first place.”

Delaney said the results he gathers will help build a framework and to develop a standardised accident investigation toolkit that can be used by everyone investigating truck accidents, regardless of location.

The results will also appear in academic publications and presented in conference proceedings, he added.

“We won’t solve the accident that happened today, but we might solve the one that

might happen tomorrow.

“Drivers have always said something else may have influenced the accident, but no one has actually been listening to them.”

To take part in the drivers’ survey, just scan the QR code on this page, or search for this story at bigrigs.com.au and click the survey link.

Delaney said confidentiality and security of data (within the limits of the law) will be guaranteed using password protected files and at the completion of the project all data will be destroyed after fifteen years.

You have until the end of August to take part.

The next phase of the project – from April to October – is seeking participants from all other transportation sectors; allocators, supervisors, managers, owners, etc, to share their views and insights into the current accident investigation process.

“The aim is to create a onestop tool for any accident on any road in the country – no exceptions,” said Delaney.

If you are willing to be part of Delaney’s research, in-

terviews will be held by video conferencing, predominately in the evenings, or at a time that is convenient.

Delaney also notes that all interviews will be recorded for analysis and stored in a password protected folder.

To register your interest, call Darren Delaney on ph 0401 458 082, or email at d.delaneyu@cqu.edu.au.

• If at any time you feel upset, uncomfortable, or stressed by any of the questions or scenarios in the survey, Delaney urges you to reach out and talk to a counsellor at Lifeline, ph 13 11 14, Beyond Blue, ph 1300 224 636, or through your company’s employee assistance program.

Just scan the QR code to take part in the anonymous survey.

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NEWS 11

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

Organisers confident that Brisbane show will go on

HEAVY Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) has announced that the Brisbane Truck Show will proceed as normal from May 13-16 this year.

While stressing that the decision was not made lightly, HVIA Chairman John Drake was excited to confirm the show will go ahead as planned, confident it will be bigger and better than ever.

“The board has heard the ructions and anxiety being expressed by some exhibitors, mainly caused by the various States’ snap lockdowns, and border closures,” Drake said “We felt it was appropriate to issue this advice, to provide certainty to exhibitors, HVIA members and the tens of thousands of our customers who are looking forward to come to the show.”

Drake said serious consideration was given to postponing the show but ultimately decided that the industry’s showpiece biennial gathering must go on.

“We know how important the Brisbane Truck Show is for the industry, we will use the show to reconnect and celebrate the achievements of our

WE KNOW HOW IMPORTANT THE BRISBANE TRUCK SHOW IS FOR THE INDUSTRY, WE WILL USE THE SHOW TO RECONNECT AND CELEBRATE THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF OUR ESSENTIAL INDUSTRY. JOHN DRAKE

essential industry.”

Drake said that most HVIA Board members are exhibitors, so fully understand the risks and financial implications.

“None of us would ever put anyone at risk, but we have listened to all of the evidence, consulted broadly, discussed the pro’s and con’s calmly and have arrived at a decision to proceed,” he added.

HVIA Director and Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific CEO and President, Daniel Whitehead, says his company remains firmly committed to the ever-popular show.

“The Brisbane Truck Show

remains a great way for manufacturers to demonstrate their support of the local road transport industry and the Daimler Truck and Bus team is beyond excited to be part of it,” he said.

“Covid-19 turbulence has not stopped those who work hard to put the food on our shelves, the clothes on our backs or the fuel in our cars, so we should do everything we can to make sure an event that celebrates this critical industry goes ahead.”

Whitehead is confident the Brisbane Truck Show can be held safely.

“A vast amount of detailed planning by HVIA, the venue team, the Queensland Government and the City of Brisbane, has been carried out to ensure it is a safe experience for every exhibitor and every attendee,” he said.

Drake said the HVIA Board has placed great emphasis in the vaccine rollout and how this is likely to put an end to border closures and snap lockdowns.

“We know many exhibitors are expressing confidence, the vaccine is being rolled out, and

we know there is currently no Queensland community transmission” Drake said.

“We also know that the weekend of the Brisbane Truck Show is also NRL Magic Round – with every game at Suncorp Stadium - and the Doomben 10,000 Group 1 horse race; two leading, na-

tional sporting events, so it is going to be an amazing atmosphere, especially at the South Bank Truck Festival,” he said.

HVIA CEO Todd Hacking said Brisbane Truck Show exhibitors who do not wish to proceed are advised to quickly inform themselves of the Terms and Conditions and

contact HVIA, so the necessary arrangements can be put in place.

“HVIA will honour all agreements with our contracted parties,” Hacking said.

“At the same time, now that this decision has been, we will be cracking on full steam ahead.”

Organisers are confident that this year’s truck show can be held safely.

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12 OPERATOR PROFILE

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Word of mouth drives the success of family business

Specialising in crane truck work and servicing the booming building industry, the hard-working Oates team hasn’t slowed down one bit during the Covid crisis.

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

“WE don’t advertise a lot - a lot of the time we get work through people we know they might ask the question ‘can you do this?’ and we will give it a shot, and a couple of years later you’re still working for them.”

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ A simple statement but one JON WALLIS that resonates well for building contributors@bigrigs.com.au up a business, as has been the case for Matt Oates with his six-truck operation in West Wodonga, Victoria.

Specialising in crane truck work and servicing the building industry, Oates’s family business covers a wide area of south-eastern Australia, with the current boom in the housLEGAL EAGLE ing and construction indusROWAN KING tries the work schedPrincipalkeeping Lawyer RK Law ule full.

Carting steel and building products has been pretty much the bread-and-butter for Oates in his time in road transport, which started with him doing deliveries and working in the store at Surdex Steel then to Stramit hauling roofing iron, before moving across to another local operator which was the catalyst for the business as it is today.

“Vern Mildren offered me a job and I worked with him for 15 years before he retired, doing a lot of work for Lysaght and Onesteel. Over that time, I got to know a lot of the customers and I had an opportunity to buy his Kenworth SAR which I had driven since new, we started off with the one truck and every 12 months we have added another,” Oates explained.

Currently the Oates fleet consists of two Mack Tridents, a Kenworth K200 and the

Oates’s original SAR-1.7 million km and still working hard.

Terrific Trident: Matt Oates with one of his Macks at his West Wodonga Depot.

The Oates Isuzu delivering house framing on the shores of Lake Hume.

SAR along with an Isuzu and UD rigids. All trucks with the exception of the cab-over Kenworth have truck-mounted cranes with a variety of steel, framework, trusses and machinery making up the bulk of the work undertaken by the company trucks.

With Oates having first hit the road over two decades ago in a single-drive UD prime-mover and extendable trailer with no crane, the

trucks in the Oates fleet today are a long way removed from the earlier days, with the Macks in particular having been geared for the job, which saw the 2017 Trident in the fleet joined by and other similar unit late last year.

“We can’t fault them, we have had a good run out of the Macks at the minute and the Trident is the pick of the bunch, they have the MP8 at 500 horsepower and we don’t

The Oates team hard at work at Thredbo Village in the Snowy Mountains.

need any bigger than that. The drivers love them, and they are comfortable,” Oates said.

Getting them set up for the work is another factor in terms of buying the right truck for the job in the first place.

“The Palfinger crane adds 2- 2 ½ tonne so you have to be careful with your steer weights and so on, and of course be mindful of length because they don’t build houses out in empty paddocks! A Super-Liner would be too long, so you have to do your measurements and weight calculations.”

The original SAR which Oates started off his busines with is still a solid performer with the Cat-powered Kenworth having ticked over 1.7 million largely trouble-free kilometres whilst the K200 is the all-rounder of the fleet.

“It is the only one which doesn’t have a crane, but we can get a bit more weight on it, we use it for a lot of structural steel where there are cranes on site,” Oates said.

From its Albury-Wodonga hub, the Oates fleet services a wide area with Oates having

run as far afield as Brisbane and Adelaide, with the company trucks also having had a few trips over the years into the mountainous terrain along the Great Dividing Range, with the freight requiring some extra management to get it on site safely within the Kosciuszko National Park.

“The last 3-4 years we have been taking framework up to Thredbo Village in the Snowy Mountains for the walking tracks, we unload it in the carpark at the village and the helicopter takes it to where it is needed. We have to pack it into ½ tonne bundles because that’s all the helicopters can handle, and also pack out the scrap metal. We go to Yarrawonga and load the afternoon before and then go over and back the next day,” he explained.

As is the case with any transport operation, the drivers are the key to its success and Oates reckons he has been fortunate in that regard.

“We have a great bunch of blokes and being a small family business, everyone pitches in. They are the face of the business and if they have a good rapport with the customers you get good feedback.”

Despite the longer distances the trucks cover to destinations further afield, the drivers might only be away from home one night a fortnight.

Both Macks and the K200 are fitted with sleepers but Oates prefers to put the drivers in a motel for the night.

“If they are away overnight,

we put them up somewhere, it’s better than sleeping in the truck and you need somewhere for a shower and so on, it’s better for them to stretch out and get a proper break.”

Despite all the trials and tribulations of Covid over the last 12 months, the workload has been constant for the Oates operation, with the building boom driving things.

“With the stimulus from the government for new housing we have never been busier, home approvals are up around 95 a month in Wodonga, usually they are around 60. It’s a variety of stuff we do, if something falls through you can pull something forward or line something up, I had one call last week and out of that I had loads booked into Yarrawonga, Hillston, Cooma and Bega so sometimes you have to juggle things to make it work.”

Having purchased a yard for a depot in West Wodonga a few years ago Oates is well placed geographically, literally a stone’s throw from both the local Mack and Kenworth dealers, along with one of his regular clients.

He also reckoned another truck might be on the horizon and having sampled the latest Mack Anthem recently it would be a fair assumption that the next truck in the Oates fleer will have a bulldog out the front.

“I loved driving it and all the features on it; one could be on the shopping list,” he said with a grin.

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14 FEATURE

Poetic tributes of life on the road

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

When Parkinson’s forced him to give up trucking five years ago, Chris Gray began putting pen to paper, reflecting on over 30 years behind the wheel.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

Chris and his son Zeb got a photo with this eye-catching Kenworth at a local truck show a few years ago.

A young Chris in his 20s with his first interstate truck, a Ford LNT9000.

AS is the story of many truckies, truck driving wasn’t just a job for Gray, it was a way of life. Nicknamed Shiny because his trucks were always immaculate, he was taken off the road five years ago, once his Parkinson’s symptoms began.

“It started with a tremor in the legs, severe fatigue and shaking of the hands. I’ve been off the road since and I miss my trucks so badly. It’s the one thing in my life I can’t replace, it’s that itch I can never scratch,” he said.

“When you’re used to working 100+ hours a week; and go from that to sitting at home every day, it’s like torture. I was really angry at first, but I’ve had to come to terms with it. It’s taught me a lot of patience. It doesn’t matter how much worry or stress you put into something, what will be, will be, and you can’t change it.”

With the extra time he now has, Gray writes poems about trucking and the lifestyle, reminiscing about his life on the road: “He shuffled out the door that morning In his usual way He grabbed his hat & walking stick And set off for his day His days were long & boring now He longed for days gone by When he had his trusty workhorse As down the roads they’d fly…”

“When I was a kid, I loved writing and drawing trucks.

I’ve always been eloquent with my words. I write a lot now, it’s a bit cathartic,” explained Gray.

“No one tells when you first begin Of the bond that

Chris’ driving career was cut short due to early onset Parkinson’s disease. This Kenworth T408 SAR was one of the last trucks he drove.

you will make With a piece of bloody machinery That took a week to make They don’t tell you of the tears you’ll shed As you’re forced to say goodbye To the thing you built a bond with As the miles flew on by…”

Though Parkinson’s disease is most common in those aged 60 or older, Gray’s symptoms started when he was just 48.

Now 53 and unable to drive, he spends his time writing poems about trucking and enjoying the company of his Corgi/ Jack Russell cross, named Jack.

“He’s my best mate in the whole world. We’re inseparable now. Sometimes I can choke in my sleep, and he wakes me up by barking or nibbling at my hand. And if my arms are tremoring really bad, he’ll lie on my hands to try to calm them down.”

Having grown up on a farm in Wallendbeen, NSW, Gray has been surrounded by trucks his whole life. Both his father and uncle were truck drivers.

Gray learned to drive in an F Model Mack, taught by his uncle, who was a hard taskmaster. “I was only 12-13 but I was a farm kid. My uncle told me I was only allowed to drive backwards for six months, so any time the truck needed to be reversed, that was my job.

When I was allowed to start driving forwards, if I punched a gear, he’d whack my hand with a ruler. Uncle John was a cattle truck driver. He was a hard

teacher but that’s how I learnt.”

At 18, Gray secured a good job selling spare parts, complete with a good salary and company car. But just a few months in, after seeing a truck drive past, he quit on the spot and changed career paths.

“I had visions of me dying in a truck or going to sleep in a parking bay and not waking up. It’s sad because when you get taken out of the trucks, there’s no chance to say goodbye, or see your mates because they’re all out still trucking. It’s a bit weird like that. I still talk to them heaps and they drop in now and then. But it’s not the same. Trucking to me was a lonely contentment you could never name. That’s what I miss the most. It was pretty much my life,” he said.

Gray has now turned to restoring old farm trucks with his youngest son Zeb (16). “He wants to be a diesel mechanic and get in the trucks like Dad.”

Chris and his dog Jack are inseparable.

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16 IN MEMORIAM

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Tributes pour in for truckie

STEVEN Lawrie, the truckie tragically killed near the SA-Victoria border last month, is being fondly remembered as a top bloke who was always generous with his time.

Before he became a driver, Lawrie was a senior firefighter at the SA Metropolitan Fire Service and station officer John McNaughton said he was popular with everyone he met.

“Steve used to always devote a lot of his time to the fire service, especially the community events,” said McNaughton.

“No matter what the event, if we asked for volunteers that day, Steve always stuck up his hand.”

A post on the Paringa Football Netball Club’s Faceook page reiterated the father-ofthree’s reputation for helping others.

“Steve was a very loyal Swannies supporter who was always there to offer his services. He helped with colts trainings, umpiring senior & junior games and many other duties over recent times. Your shift is now over.”

His former boss at Shadow Security Group Wayne Mattei shared a similar sentiment.

Truckie Steven Lawrie was a popular member of his community.

“He was a very valued and much-loved part of the Shadow Security Group family,” he wrote on Facebook.

“Steven was also loved by the staff at Big W Gawler during the covid pandemic and also The Red Lion Hotel… just another show of his always helping the community.

“Steven personally always went out of his way to assist me with filling a shift if required and always referred to me as “boss” which I always told him off for calling me that saying “mate” would be fine. Such re-

spect from & for the big man.”

Friend Bastian Stone told 9News: “He was one of the most amazing people and he was never short on helping people out, whether it be a lending ear or just to always have a great chat.”

Both SA and Victoria police say they have launched inquiries into last week’s crash with SA top cop Grant Stevens telling media he wants urgent answers.

The accident happened on the Western Highway at Serviceton, about 5km over the Victorian border near Wolseley just after 2am on February 11.

Victoria police were told a truck crashed into the back of a stationary truck, and the truck that was stationary, collided with a truck in front of it.

At the time of going to print with this issue, the exact cause was still being investigated and police were appealing to truck drivers who may have witnessed the incident or have dashcam footage from the area around the time of the collision to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au

TRUCK WINDSCREEN SPECIALIST

Popular Parts Manager Vince Magnano was part of the CMV Group for over 30 years.

CMI Hino Parts Manager fondly remembered FRIENDS, family and colleagues are mourning the sudden loss of Vince Magnano, the much-loved Parts Manager at CMI Hino Melbourne who died last month. He was just 57.

“It is with tremendous sadness we announce the passing of Vince Magnano, CMI Hino Melbourne’s dedicated and long serving Parts Manager,” the company writes on its Facebook page.

“Vinnie, as he was known to almost everyone, has been part of the CMV Group for well over 30 years and has

been CMI Hino Melbourne’s Parts Manager for much of that time.

“Known throughout our industry for his wealth of knowledge and care for our customers, Vinnie will be very fondly remembered and sadly missed.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Rita, Jessica and Luke, his extended family and huge network of friends and colleagues.”

Big Rigs Manager Peter Hockings said the long-time Big Rigs supporter started as a client but quickly became a

good friend.

“It was truly a sad day to get the call and be told of his sudden passing,” said Hockings.

“As a person he was a full of life character who was always very welcoming, and of course, loved a chat.

“I would call in at the branch on every sales trip I did to Melbourne for a coffee and a chat.

“He was also a very strong family man to his wife Rita and the kids, a man I am very proud to not only call a client, but also a friend.”

Vale Geoff Tinney, former TNT industrial relations expert THE Victorian Transport Association Executive Council and Secretariat expresses its sincere sadness and deepest condolences to family, friends, and colleagues of Geoff Tinney, who died recently.

“One of the most genuine persons you could ever meet, Geoff was a leading industrial relations advocate throughout his career in the road transport industry, being most active during the 1980s and 1990s. He was always pleasant and willing to help not only his own company but any person who asked for his

advice,” said VTA CEO Peter Anderson.

Tinney represented the transport industry during the heady days of Compulsory Superannuation and during several TWU blockades on the Hume Highway.

As former VTA executive director Phil Lovel said: “Geoff was a great negotiator.

The TWU representatives respected Geoff because of his integrity. He was strong, well mannered, and very experienced in all facets of road transport operations.”

Along with many other TNT executives he led the

industry on many industrial issues: Owner-driver costings, industry agreements, the early days of Enterprise Bargaining, the Superannuation Guarantee Scheme, TWU wages campaigns, transport industry awards and award modernisation are just a sample.

He finished his career as the Executive Director of the NSW Road Transport Association and retired to the Sunshine Coast.

“He was a gentleman amongst his industry peers.

Our condolences go out to Gwen, his family and friends,” Anderson added.

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18 FEATURE

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Who are you going to call after a breakdown?

With many smaller operators running on increasingly tighter margins, keeping your truck on the road has never been more important.

Powered by NT, Truck Assist is Australia’s leading provider of specialist breakdown assistance for trucks with a national network of over 4000 service providers.

BY BRENT DAVISON GIVEN the amount of time trucks spend on the road a breakdown of some sort is inevitable.

Popping a tyre, losing hydraulics, simply failing to start or any one of a hundred things will eventually sideline even the best-kept truck.

Asking the question popularised in a movie, who ya gunna call?

For anyone in a car, life is easy because roadside assistance offered by various national and state motoring clubs, insurance companies and private contractors has been around almost as long as the car. Trucks, on the other hand, are a different matter.

Not surprisingly, the same sorts of roadside assistance offered to car owners and drivers by the motoring clubs is unavailable for heavy vehicles because roadside service technicians are generally not equipped or trained to handle anything big.

The best that could be done was call up a tow truck and, not surprisingly, a fairly extensive network of heavy vehicle-capable towing services

Can small to medium operators live without a roadside assistance plan? That will always be the $64,000 question.

soon popped-up around the country.

So for truck drivers and owners, the notion of roadside assistance has been just that, from about the time the truck as we know it first appeared in 1895.

There is no easily-referenced history of heavy vehicle assistance anywhere but, in Australia, assistance packages for trucks similar to those offered by the state auto clubs for cars were first offered around 2005/06 by National Transport Insurance (NTI) as a wholesale product called Truck Assist for new Isuzu and Hino trucks.

At that time, Isuzu called

its package Isuzu Assist and Hino labelled its offering Hino Roadside Assist.

But what started as a showroom floor sales incentive caught peoples’ attention and the idea quickly grew legs.

There are no secrets about how roadside assistance works; in its simplest form the broken-down vehicle is attended to by a repair technician and either fixed on site or towed to a repairer.

The difference is that while car owners usually belong to one of the state automobile clubs, truck drivers do not.

Owners are instead linked to a service either as a part of the manufacturer program,

Popping a tyre, losing hydraulics, simply failing to start or any one of a hundred things will eventually sideline even the best-kept truck.

through a relationship with their local dealer or as a member of an independent organisation.

Depending on the service to which the truck is linked, a roadside call-out means businesses either pay for parts only or pay for a call-out fee, parts and labour.

Motorcharge Truck and Van Roadside Response, an assistance service for trucks and light commercial vehicles, for example, is a 24/7 national service. Access to it is free (a Motorcharge card is a must-have, however) but anyone using the service will be required to pay an upfront call-out fee plus the cost of any repairs.

Motorcharge has a 10,000-strong army of service providers covering the obvious – mechanics, auto electricians, tyre and battery suppliers and tow services – to the not-so-obvious, like locksmiths.

Craig Carmody, NTI’s National Development Manager – Transport, describes heavy vehicle roadside assistance as “a customer-centric proposition”, a specialist service to cut downtime so the vehicles can continue generating income. “(In the case of NTI) Truck Assist roadside assistance pays to get the technician out (to the stranded truck) and the customer pays for the parts. It’s a different animal to car breakdowns,” Carmody said.

Playing by the numbers, of the approximately 600,000 trucks currently plying Australia’s roads, 480,000 of them are rigids and of that number, half are not traditional freight haulers.

“The ‘other’ 50 per cent are not transport industry-related,” says Carmody. “They are owned by plumbers, carpet layers, builders, that sort of thing – single operators in industries that don’t have the same (repair) infrastructure as the truck industry.

“Because of that, having a roadside assistance plan is not as emotive a decision as it is for car owners, it’s a rational, practical decision – it saves time and it saves money.”

Flat batteries and flat tyres aside, the modern truck is not something that can always be fixed easily and quickly at the roadside and for a lot of operators a quick inspection to decide whether or not a vehicle needs towing can be a time and money saver.

Roadside assistance plans are yet another financial outlay though so weighing-up the pros and cons of each is essential.

A quick inspection to decide whether or not a vehicle needs towing can be a time and money saver.

There are a number of localised and state-based businesses offering roadside assistance but for this story, we looked only at the national businesses offering an ‘anywhere, anytime’ service.

Motorcharge, for example, has no annual membership cost but bills $55 for each callout plus the cost of any repairs, parts or other services.

For its part, Truck Assist runs two plans, one costing $479 a year giving $1000 of breakdown cover per event, the other costing $785 annually and covering $1500 in breakdown costs each time.

Interestingly, of all the statebased motorist associations, only the NSW-based National Roads and Motorists Association (NRMA) has a national roadside assistance service for heavy commercial vehicles.

Known as NRMA Business Motoring, it caters for vehicles – trucks and buses - with GVM weights over 12 tonnes and covers trailers (single through to triple axle). Membership is $349 annually and while it is not specific about its repair pricing structure it does note that wheel and tyre changes are free ‘provided the vehicle has a suitable jack, tools and spare’.

Fix My Truck, a Melbourne-based service catering for vehicles over three tonnes, offers the obligatory 24/7 national breakdown service, boast more than 13,000 service providers in Australia and New Zealand.

Finding its own unique payment plan niche, it charges monthly and by truck numbers. A fleet of up to 10 trucks, for example, costs $22 (NZ$25.50) per truck per month. Between 11 and 20 trucks cost $16.50 (NZ$19) each a month and 21 to 50 trucks $11.50 (NZ$13) monthly. More than 50 and each vehicle costs $6.50 (NZ$7.50) monthly. The company also accepts casual customers but only if they have a valid credit card handy.

For the broad transport industry the notion of roadside assistance has come from nothing to a reasonably sophisticated ‘something’ in little more than 15 years and indications are that it will only get even more involving and all-encompassing.

Can small to medium operators live without a roadside assistance plan? That will always be the $64,000 question but provider choice is probably more important given the different services offered and the varying costs involved.

The bottom line though is the peace of mind brought by having that roadside assist number on every driver’s speed dial.

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20 NEWS

SA truckie wins UD’s Australian Extra Mile Challenge

STEVE Gould, who drives for B&D Crane Trucks in Adelaide, has come out on top in UD’s driver skill-based competition.

The UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge tests drivers across several key areas, aiming to demonstrate how improvements in driver behaviour can translate to safer driving, improved fuel consumption and reduced wear and tear on vehicles. Gould recorded the highest percentage increase in performance over the 12-week competition.

Though the plan was for Gould to travel to UD Trucks headquarters in Ageo, Japan to compete in the Extra Mile Challenge Global final, the COVID-19 pandemic means a virtual ceremony will take place instead to award the winners from across the globe.

For the Australian competition, drivers were hand-picked

by UD Trucks’ customers to

compete in the challenge.

There were 12 drivers from three UD Trucks dealerships chosen to participate in the competition, supported by dedicated dealership Fuel Watch Managers.

Drivers were monitored through the course of the competition via the truck’s telematics system, with the winner determined by the highest positive percentage change in driver score across the competition. The UD Telematics system measures drivers against anticipation and braking, engine and gear utilisation, speed adaptation and standstill to produce an overall driver score.

As well as a whopping 230 per cent increase on his original starting position, Gould also finished the 12 weeks with the highest average driver’s score of 89 out of 100.

Throughout the competition, Gould had regular

check-ins with his Fuel Watch Manager, Chris Moar, from South Central Truck & Bus in Adelaide.

“We had several conversations where I was able to use the data I had from the truck’s telematics system to update Steve on his progress. We also talked about the best ways to improve in the various areas, so he could consistently improve his score and maintain safe and fuel efficient driving practices.”

Gould’s driver score wasn’t the only improvement B&D Crane Trucks saw over the course of the competition.

“We have already found the new Quons in our fleet to be fuel-efficient trucks. I’m delighted to see the improvements that can be made to increase that saving even further.

Not to mention considered driving improves road safety for all users,” said Bob Miller, owner B&D Crane Trucks.

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckie Steve Gould beat some tough competition to win the coveted UD driver crown.

The Extra Mile Challenge is run by UD Trucks International and supported by various countries including Australia, challenging drivers

in the local qualifying rounds to continuously improve their performance.

While the live streamed virtual ceremony will be host-

ed in Japan, Gould will be celebrating his win with South Central Truck & Bus and UD Truck representatives in Adelaide on March 16.

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22 OPERATOR PROFILE

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

He arrived here with just $200 but look at him now

From humble beginnings in Australia, the transplanted Kiwi star of Outback Truckers has built his Mareeba operation into one of Nth Qld’s most enduring.

Many of the places Dent’s Transport delivers to are isolated Cape York Aboriginal communities.

Early trips to the isolated Weipa region were a mainstay of Denty’s business.

The Coronavirus pandemic hasn’t affected Dent’s Transport much with Denty saying “business is good”.

TRUCKIN’ AROUND OZ ALF WILSON contributors@bigrigs.com.au

WHEN New Zealand born Dennis Dent arrived at Mareeba in north Queensland back in 1967 he owned just an old beat up Valiant car and had a meagre $200 to his name.

The 73-year-old Dent, who is known affectionately by his nicknameLEADER Denty, started busiREFORM ness there as a truck driver in GARY MAHON Queensland Trucking CEO Trans1970 and set Association up Dent’s port Heavy Haulage five years later.

Denty has built that up over the decades into one of the north’s most respected transport companies with a high annual income.

Big Rigs visited the business on the corner of Beams and Costin Street in Mareeba LIFE WITH KERMIE and met up with Denty in his GRAHAM HARSANT contributors@bigrigs.com.au workshop.

“I now have two Kenworth 650’s and a 2010 Mercedes 2244, which is the pride of my small fleet, and employ two drivers and two women in administration. Once I had 13 trucks,” Denty said.

In recent years, Denty has appeared in two series of Outback Truckers, and has been asked to participate in a third.

“That was interesting being REFORM LEADER on that program, but I don’t SAL PETROCCITT National Vehicle thinkHeavy I’ll do it Regulator, again. CEO I copped a fair bit of ribbing from my mates over it as well,” he said.

Born in Whanganui on New Zealand’s North Island, Denty may have arrived in Australia with little money, but he always had big dreams.

“My first truck was a single

drive Leyland and I used to deliver concrete blocks,” he said.

These days Denty is still driving and his company delivers a variety of equipment and goods to some of AustraINDUSTRY ADVOCATE lia’s most remote communities BEN MAGUIRE Australian trucking Association CEO on Cape York Peninsula.

“We go all over Cape York to Lockhart River, Weipa, Napranum, Mapoon, Aurukun, Kowanyama and other places including to roadhouses and properties. We carry building material, machinery, cement powder to Weipa and supplies all over the place,” he said.

TRUCKIN’ IN VICTORIA They travel over mostly GRAHAM HARSANT contributors@bigrigs.com.au corrugated red dirt roads and maintenance of the trucks is a high priority and is done at the depot workshop.

Dent’s Transport also has a variety of trailers to service numerous customers.

Denty said that his partner Teresa, who is a Jill of all trades with the company, and office worker Ivana are vital to the WELCOME MESSAGE business.

MARK BAILEY Qld Minister for Transport and “I couldn’t doMain Roads without them and they both do wonderful jobs,” he said.

The roads to Cape York closed due to wet weather in early January like they do every year and traditionally reopen around Easter time in April.

During the enforced closures, Dent’s Transport has plenty of work to do in other areas around the far north.

LEGAL CORNER In previous years when SARAH MARINOVIC Armstrong Denty Legal has been left stranded due to a closed road and it sometimes resulted in daring escapades.

Like the time he was stranded for several days and swam across a river to get some beer and supplies from the Archer River Roadhouse.

“Weren’t you worried about being eaten by a salt water crocodile?” I asked Denty.

“Not at all because it was a freshwater creek and those crocodiles don’t attack humansCAMPAIGNER normally,” he said with WA a wryDUMESNY smile.

CAM Western Roads Federation Many of the CEO places Dent’s Transport delivers to are isolated Cape York Aboriginal communities and over the years have also included Northern Peninsula Area centres Bamaga, Injinoo, Seisia, New Mapoon and Umagico.

Denty has great respect for the Indigenous people from places one of his Ithese SPY ON THE and ROAD Kenworth’s is dubbed “Which ISPY@BIGRIGS.COM.AU Way?”.

“That is an Aboriginal term which I have named in honour of a man from Bamaga,” he said.

And Denty reckons that some knowledge passed onto him by Aboriginal elders about the weather has proven spot on.

“They told me that if you INSURANCE GURU see a frilly lizard looking up it MARK BROWN Manager, TBI Insurance Services

TELEMATICS EXPERT SHANNON KYLE

Safety solutions specialist, Teletrac Navman

will soon rain. Every time that has happened to me the rain came,” he said.

In his younger days Denty was renowned for being a man who could handle his fists and once had a punch up with another driver over an equipment dispute.

“It was at Coen and we both gave each other a bit of a hiding and nobody won. But we got on the grog together

after it and have since been mates for years,” he said.

Many older and middle-aged drivers around Australia will tell you that the camaraderie which once existed between drivers on the highways and byways no longer exists.

These days they reckon that if you break down most truckies will drive past, whereas years ago most would stop and offer assistance.

Denty concedes that may be the case in most places around the country. But he is adamant that is not the case on Cape York.

“We all know each other and the last time I broke down six drivers stopped to help and I was back on the road within hours,” he said.

One example is that Denty is warm friends with long time Weipa transport operator Rob Roy and his son Gavan.

“Many of my clients are roadhouses along the way and they are like family” he said.

Denty and his drivers don’t use electronic logbooks because they don’t work so well around Cape York where there

I WILL CONTINUE TO DRIVE FOR AS LONG AS I CAN BECAUSE IF I RETIRED WHAT WOULD I DO? SIT AT HOME AND DO NOTHING.” DENIS DENT

is limited reception.

Each year Denty tries to visit New Zealand to catch up with family and friends in the land of the Long White Cloud.

“I didn’t get there in 2020 because of Covid-19 but will endeavour to later this year,” he said.

The Coronavirus pandemic hasn’t affected Dent’s Transport much with Denty saying “business is good”.

But what does the future hold for this champion truckie who has the road transport industry in his blood?

“I will continue to drive for as long as I can because if I retired what would I do? Sit at home and do nothing,” he said in conclusion.

COST CUTTER CHET CLINE

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT JACQUELENE BROTHERTON

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS

AIR CTI founder/owner

Chair of Transport Women Australia

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

Big Rigs visited the business on the corner of Beams and Costin Street in Mareeba and met up with THE OZ TRUCKER TWU NEWS LEGAL EAGLE Denty in his workshop.

MIKE WILLIAMS RICHARD OLSEN ROWAN KING contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NSW State Secretary

LOBBYIST STEVE SHEARER

SA Road Transport Association Executive Director

Denty may have arrived in Australia with little money, but he always had big dreams.

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FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

This T908 is based in Mingenew, WA. Zak Bland decided to stop on his way out of Perth to cook some dinner and watch the sun go down.

Out on the hay plains, truckie Matt Manning shared this ripper shot of the K200 he drives for James Transport Mildura.

Share your truck pics THE trucking game is as diverse as the terrain on which our truckies travel.

If there’s one thing we know many of you love, it’s a good looking rig – and sometimes life on the open road brings some golden photo opportunities.

The Big Rigs #PicOfTheDay competition is a chance

to share your best snaps through our Facebook page (@BigRigs). We’ll choose a weekly winning shot to feature as our Facebook cover photo and a selection of the best pics will be featured in the next edition of Big Rigs Newspaper.

So get snapping and keep those great pics coming!

Shaun Millman and this Western Star 4800 were carting a broken rail welder back to Perth.

Ann-Marie Hicks snapped this shot of a Kalari Transport road train at Ceduna, SA.

Rick Phillips sent this shot of the 1998 Kenworth T950 he drives for JNJ Haulage and Sons.

Nathan Lilpumb Farrell and this 2020 Kenworth T909 loads deer, out of Naracoorte, SA.

Loaded up with cattle, Peter Shiells was travelling out of western Victoria.

Filip Schubert took this pic of the 2009 Kenworth T608 he drives for SRV, taken on the Northern Highway.

READER RIGS 25

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

A big Mack with a mighty big load, floating in on sunset. Thanks for sharing Brad Zis.

Camdee Industries driver Dallas Johnston sent this shot of his T909 with a B-double stag, unloading fertiliser at Retro Homestead in Clermont, Queensland.

Mathew Moreland sent this ripper of a shot, showing his father’s Canadian Kenworth leading three road trains.

This is Larry, a T900 legend for Trans Australia, which operates from Adelaide to all over the east coast. Thanks for sharing Ashley Britton.

Jason Blackley shared a great shot of this Broadbent Transport Kenworth T908, travelling through Wycheproof, Victoria.

Paul Freeth snapped this late afternoon shot at Murnpeowie Station.

Joshua Clancy shared a great photo of this Mack SuperLiner at the Mundrabilla Roadhouse.

During the 2020 grain harvest, while travelling just out of Narrabri, Carl Virtue saw two huge storms in the distance but only got a few drops of rain.

Daniel George Legge captured an incredible shot of this Kenworth road train seemingly travelling through a rainbow.

26 AD FEATURE

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

New opportunities now open at The Tyre Factory The licensing program offers low cost entry and access to the biggest tyre brands.

There are licensing opportunities available for all states in the Tyre Factory Licensing Program.

AUSTRALIA is a huge land mass and our roads are how we typically get our products from A to B. With the number of trucks and cars on our roads growing every year, it means the number of tyres on the road are growing too.

As our population grows, the number of vehicles grows with it. “Trucks and cars are doing more mileage and wearing out more tyres. The tyre

market is growing every year and it won’t stop growing.

The more kilometres you do, the more you wear out your tyres,” said General Manager of The Tyre Factory Group Pty Ltd, Bill Leane.

“During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when business was tough, the tyre market still showed growth.

There were six new stores that opened last year in the middle

of the pandemic.”

Started in 1987, The Tyre Factory has continued to grow its retail footprint and brand recognition. The Tyre Factory Group now has new opportunities for those looking for a change in direction – no matter where in Australia they are.

“There’s an opportunity for someone in 2021 to change their direction and own their own tyre and wheel

superstore. There are licensing opportunities available for all states for the Tyre Factory Licensing Program, which offers low cost entry and access to the biggest tyre brands,” added Leane.

“There are a lot of Big Rigs readers who have been driving trucks all their life or running a fleet or who’ve been in the trucking industry for many years. This is an opportunity to get off the road and own their own business. We have opportunities available nationally.”

Leane explained that the business has deliberately gone

down a licensing path, rather than a franchise model, to lower costs and increase the benefits for those that take the step into being a Tyre Factory store owner. “There are a lot of groups in the tyre industry and they are mainly franchises. We use a licensing model because it means it’s a much lower cost to get in. The cost of a license is low and the flexibility is high.”

The Tyre Factory does away with the massive rulebook that often comes with running a franchise. It provides a strong platform and a strong back-up service, coupled with the best

deal on any tyres.

“This is a great opportunity in a market that needs continual replacement. It gives people access to all brands in the marketplace, so they’re not tied to just one brand. We have all the brands, so store owners can distribute their money into whatever suits their market,” Leane added.

“There are opportunities for new start-ups, for rebranding of existing tyre and wheel businesses or as an extension of another type of business.

No matter where in Australia you are, we’re happy to have a conversation.”

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

Brake manufacturer begins environmental initiatives to reduce carbon emissions

A leading Australian brake manufacturer, Bendix, has commenced a series of initiatives centred around reducing emissions.

In a major move the company has signed up with notfor-profit environmental organisation Greenfleet, to offset 170 company and employee vehicles on a mission to protect the climate by restoring our Australian and New Zealand forests.

Greenfleet is Australia’s first carbon offset provider. Since 1997 it has planted 9.6 million trees, creating more than 500 biodiverse forests in Australia and New Zealand, which are protected for 100 years and have offset more than 3.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent. Greenfleet is currently working with over 400 organisations, many of which have been offsetting carbon emissions for over 10 years.

Using the Full Carbon Accounting Model (FullCAM),

developed by CSIRO and approved by the then Australian Department of the Environment, Greenfleet ensures the carbon uptake of each forest at each planting site.

Greeenfleet forests are legally protected on-title for up to 100 years from land clearing, harvesting and construction, even if the land is sold. In cases of natural disaster such as fire, floods and drought, or damage from browsing animals or pests, the trees are replaced or planted in other areas.

To provide the right foundation for a complex forest to ultimately emerge in each bio-region, the plantings include a range of trees including locally adaptive species in any planting to ensure resilient forests will thrive and flourish. After any planting, regular checks are made especially during the establishment phase to check on the health and growth rate of the trees.

Greenfleet CEO Wayne

FMP ARE OFFSETTING HUNDREDS OF TONNES OF CO2 EMISSIONS, BUT THEY’RE ALSO ENABLING ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION RIGHT HERE IN AUSTRALIA. WAYNE WESCOTT

Bendix has partnered with Greenfleet to help reduce its carbon footprint. Greenfleet has planted nearly 21,000 trees at the Whitehurst forest in Victoria. Over their lifetime, this forest will capture over 23,000 tonnes of CO2-e from the atmosphere.

Wescott said, “We’re thrilled to have FMP join our network of committed supporters. By partnering with Greenfleet, FMP is taking practical climate action with lasting environmental benefits. The native forests we’re planting to offset FMP’s vehicle emissions will be legally

protected for up to 100 years.

“FMP are offsetting hundreds of tonnes of CO2 emissions, but they’re also enabling ecosystem restoration right here in Australia. This means conserving biodiversity and creating habitat for our critically endangered native wildlife.”

The move by Bendix involves its many employees, thus ensuring the greatest impact on carbon emission reduction is achieved. This is just one of many initiatives being introduced by the company to protect the environment.

FMP Group (Australia) Pty

Ltd General Manager George Kyriakopoulos added, “As an environmentally conscious company, the FMP Group is initiating a series of projects to reduce carbon emissions and the Greenfleet approach has allowed us to not only counter our fleet vehicle emissions but to also include the many vehicles owned by our employees.

The company is dedicated to creating a better environment for future generations and with Greenfleet we join with a number of other major corporate conscious national and international companies in this objective.”

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FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Scale experts celebrate another hefty milestone

The TCA has granted the Loadman LM300 Can Coder scale system with Category B Type Approval.

ON-BOARD truck scale business Loadmass Pty Ltd (Loadman Australia) has celebrated a major achievement, with Transport Certification Australia (TCA) granting its Smart On-board mass (OBM) system with Category B Type Approval.

“We were the first to be category A approved in August 2018, and now are type B approved. The fact that our Loadman LM300 Can Coder scale system is TCA approved means transport operators can use it with confidence, knowing that they will always get accurate information,” said Ralph Rossteuscher, Director at Loadmass.

“Our product is simple to install. The LM300 Can

Coder system being available for over 10 years – we’ve just further developed it and redesigned it to comply with the TCA requirements.”

By utilising on-board mass measurement systems, transport operators are provided with critical information about their vehicle’s load. This not only helps to manage safety and regulatory compliance but can also help to boost productivity.

Smart OBM systems are digitally connected on-board weighing systems that enable new productivity and safety initiatives using applications of the National Telematics Framework (NTF). All Smart OBM systems are type-approved by TCA. They also al-

low the digital collection and transmission of data for later analysis and reporting.

Road access arrangements for higher mass, such as those relating to Performance Based Standards and High Productivity Vehicles, may require mass data information collected using a Smart OBM system. The Loadman LM300 system’s recent approval means customers will benefit with productivity gains.

Frank Parker, Managing Director of Loadmass added, “Loadman Australia has been distributing scale systems since 1998, and our custom solutions are to transport operator budget and specification. On-board mass mea-

LOADMAN HAVE BEEN ON THE JOURNEY WITH TCA AND CREATIVE MICROSYSTEMS, LOADMAN’S US-BASED MANUFACTURER, TO DEVELOP OUR SMART OBM SYSTEM FOR SOME YEARS. WE CAN NOW OFFER TRANSPORT OPERATORS THE POSSIBILITY TO UPGRADE OF AN ALREADY FITTED OBM SYSTEM TO A SMART OBM SYSTEM FOR USE WITH NTF APPLICATIONS. FRANK PARKER

surement can be very valuable in supporting your commercial operations where managing load is a requirement.

“Loadman have been on the journey with TCA and Creative Microsystems, Loadman’s US-based manufacturer, to develop our Smart OBM System for some years.

We can now offer transport operators the possibility to upgrade of an already fitted OBM system to a Smart OBM system for use with NTF applications.”

To add, Loadmass’ user-friendly systems feature cab-mounted meters that are easy to read, displaying gross

weight, as well as the weights for individual axle groups if required.

Loadmass can design, supply and install systems to meet most on-board weighing system requirements – whether it be a simple weighing system or something a little more complex. Loadmass provides solutions from the Loadman and Airtec ranges, as well as its locally designed and manufactured LMA range which address local requirements for specific applications. LMA products provide solutions for rigid trucks on spring and air suspension. With a wide range of optional features available, Loadmass can tailor a system to suit your specific needs and budget.

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AD FEATURE TRAILERS 29

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The D’Angelo Folding Kingpin folds completely flat when closed.

AUSTRALIAN truck and trailer equipment manufacturer D’Angelo Engineering has launched the MiniMax, the only mini fifth wheel with a D-Value of 75kN that complies with ADR62/02.

Though it’s small, the MiniMax is extremely tough.

It’s suitable for recreational vehicles and any other application within its class. The MiniMax can also be inverted to hang upside down on any step-deck trailers and when combined with the D’Angelo Folding Kingpin it will allow you to return your ute or tray back to its original form.

A compact fifth wheel, the MiniMax measuring only 530mm wide x 390mm long, and weighing just 30kg.

When designing the MiniMax, D’Angelo thought not only of the rugged Australian conditions but also the practical use of the product.

The MiniMax features a

The MiniMax fifth wheel is small, but extremely tough and durable.

replaceable greaseless top pad, a replaceable greaseless wear collar and replaceable greaseless saddles for a clean environment and reduced maintenance costs. In addition, the release handle has been positioned so the operator can remain kerbside during operation for added safety.

Another advantage of the MiniMax over-ball type and

The 50mm Folding Kingpin is a perfect fit for the MiniMax fifth wheel.

smaller couplings is its stability, greater vertical load and larger towing capacity. This is coupled with an exclusive adjustable jaw, which minimises slack and improves jaw life.

The D’Angelo 50mm Folding Kingpin is the perfect match for the MiniMax fifth wheel. The kingpin can be folded away to allow the vehicle to fulfil dual functions.

The D’Angelo Folding Kingpin folds completely flat when closed, allowing you to utilise the full tray body or ute when the vehicle is not hitched to a trailer.

The MiniMax fifth wheel and 50mm Folding Kingpin are both designed and manufactured in Australia.

D-Angelo Engineering was founded in 1968 by Arrigo (Danny) D’Angelo and continues to produce its range of products in Melbourne to this day.

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FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Lighter wheels, bigger payloads

WHEN Fenix Newhaul JV (Fenix Resources and Newhaul) partnered up to move 1.3 million tonnes a year of high-grade ore from their Iron Ridge project to the Geraldton port, they needed reliable and durable equipment for the project.

At some 490km, the haul distance is longer than other mines. And a longer haul distance means more maintenance and increased costs.

Elevated operating costs across the mining industry due to those long distances on tough roads and in harsh conditions makes optimising payload capacity an important decision.

Bruce Rock Engineering is no stranger to servicing this industry and was contracted by Fenix Newhaul JV to build a fleet of PBS approved side tipping quad axle triple road trains.

With a payload up to 120 tonne carried on three trailers per truck, these road trains

haul iron ore from the Iron Ridge Mine, 67 kilometres north of Cue (in the Merchison), to the port of Geraldton.

The trailers are engineered to keep payloads up and maintenance down, and boast quick and easy operation with simple, accessible hydraulic systems that help keep trailers on the road and down time to a minimum. With tare weights ranging from 6.5 to 8.5 tonnes, the tippers have been customised to suit what Fenix Newhaul JV was looking for.

Bruce Rock’s road train trailers are built and rigorously tested to weather some of the harshest environments encountered by the heavy hauling industry, especially the mining sector, and this is factored into every aspect of their design and build – right down to the wheels.

Howmet Wheel Systems, the Australian Distributor for Alcoa Wheels – which has recently released its lightest wheel in the market, the Ultra

ONE wheel – was approached to supply the 18kg wheels for the trailer build.

This is a great fit with Bruce Rock Engineering’s dedication to manufacturing trailers and other custom transport equipment with some of the lowest tare weights in Australia.

The only way to boost payload capacity is to take weight off the trailer, and using lighter wheels that meet gross axle weight rating requirements can make a difference by a couple of hundred kilos, depending on the number of axles (and therefore wheels) on the rig.

“Optimising tare weight of our trailers is a cornerstone of what we do at BRE,” said Keenan Verhoogt, Bruce Rock Engineering’s Tyre & Mechanical Manager. “Using lighter, stronger materials like Alcoa’s Ultra series of wheels means significant productivity gains for our customers.”

Combining lightweight, strength and durability is behind Howmet’s commitment

Designed and tested in the tough conditions of the Pilbara region of WA, Bruce Rock’s side tippers are fitted with Alcoa Ultra ONE wheels for their durability.

to helping fleet owners and OEMs optimise their bottom line.

Alcoa Wheels are forged with MagnaForce alloy – the strongest alloy on the market yet – making them 17 per cent stronger than the industry standard alloy, which allows for lighter wheels without compromising on their

strength.

The wheels’ patent-pending Hub Bore Technology, which reduces the hub-towheel contact area by up to 64 per cent versus other aluminium wheels on the market, means there is less surface area exposed for corrosion to form, therefore adding to the equipment’s reduced maintenance

labour cost, with wheel removal becoming quicker and easier too.

Teaming up with OEMs like Bruce Rock Engineering to bring reliable equipment to market supports Howmet Wheel Systems’ drive to help fleet owners and OEMs optimise its and its customers’ bottom line.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

More drops per day with the Flow-Easy vibrator

THE issue of bulk material clinging to the inside of a tipper slowing down the unloading process is something common to many operators carting bulk products like soil, fertiliser, stock feed, grains and sands.

In many cases the only way to get material moving is by ‘shunting’ the vehicle or manually digging out compact product at the end of a shift – both risky and time consuming for the operator and leading to excessive wear and tear on the vehicle.

Flow-Easy vibrators are designed to speed up the unloading of bulk products, providing an efficient, safe and controlled load discharge. The vibration loosens compacted material, effectively eliminating compact, residual build up – a costly and common issue.

Flow-Easy vibrators are distributed by Melbourne-based Enmin, an Australian market leader in the areas of materials handling systems and vibratory equipment. The vibrators were previously marketed under the Enmin brand but have recently been re-branded Flow-Easy.

Melbourne based Finns Cartage are just one of a grow-

Flow-Easy vibrators are designed for faster unloading of bulk products, providing an efficient, safe and controlled load discharge.

Before installing the Flow-Easy vibrator, James Finn would have to manually free compacted clay and soil from the trailer.

ing number of operators who have fitted a Flow-Easy vibrator and enjoy the many benefits they provide.

Owner-operator James Finn is involved with carting a wide variety of material and sub-contracts to well-known Kingston Plant Hire.

One of his more common

loads is taking clay from basement digs in the city to new building estates in outer Melbourne, where the material is used to raise the ground height.

He also spends extensive time ‘on-site’ moving multiple loads short distances.

“When I’m on-site I can do 50-100 loads per day. Taking

top soil very short distances form one part of the site to anther; if the load doesn’t completely empty you end up with more and more compacted material until you can tip only half a load – that’s one of the key reasons I decided to fit a vibrator,” Finn said.

“Previously I was constantly having to manually free the compacted clay and soil; the vibrator just saves me so much time and effort which in turn allows me to achieve more drops per day.

“Even things like rock and recycled concrete tend to ‘cling’ so the vibrator solves this problem too. It’s especially good when I have top soil that’s been

‘drenched’ in water which is particularly problematic. Drivers without a vibrator have to jump on and off the brakes to try and free this wet soil which is both dangerous and increases wear and tear on the truck.”

As well as being a simple, cost-effective alternative to body liners, a vibrator significantly reduces the risk of cross-contamination, particularly where grains and fertiliser are being transported.

Over time body liners expand and overlap creating pockets where fugitive material can become entrapped, increasing the potential for material contamination.

The range includes 12 and

24 volt electric vibrators along with hydraulic and pneumatically powered options. Some transport applications require vibration to be applied for an extended amount of time, a scenario where the design characteristics of the hydraulic and pneumatic models come into their own.

If required, they can be run continuously, rather than the more generally utilised intermittent operation of the electric models.

The truck vibrators are easy to install and only require minimal modification to the trailer body, making them a simple, low-cost addition that provides a number of benefits. As companies update their truck and trailer fleet the vibrators can be removed easily and quickly from existing trailers and installed on the new units.

“The Flow-Easy vibrator has proven its value over and over. For a relatively small cost it’s provided increased productivity, reduced my workload, improved safety and reduced wear and tear on my truck and trailer – I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another one,” Finn concluded.

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32 AD FEATURE TRAILERS

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Freighter range celebrates 75 years

IT was 75 years ago that the Freighter products rolled onto Australian roads. Now, as the trailer brand celebrates its latest milestone, it reflects on a long and rich history.

A truly national trailer brand, before many other manufacturers dreamed it was even possible, the company didn’t limit itself to producing high quality trailers. It also made boats, buoys, buses, forklifts, caravans, starting gates for racing tracks, wood heaters and even had a crack at building its own four-wheel drive.

According to MaxiTRANS, it’s said that during the 1970s, nine out of every ten heavy-duty trailers on the road were Freighter.

Freighter was officially created in 1945, but the first of its

products hit Australian roads in February 1946. The story of Freighter all began with a man from Melbourne named John McGrath, who went on to become the biggest trailer manufacturer in the country.

Following World War II, new roads and new regulations were created to formalise the transport industry. As the developments didn’t suit McGrath’s operations or stage of life, he decided to sell out of his burgeoning, but somewhat ramshackle operation. An enterprising man named Noel Peel saw things another way – with more structure around the already impressive operations, surely McGrath’s team of engineers, welders, fixers and makers could really shine.

They named the company

The Freighter range includes curtain-sided trailers, flat top, drop deck semi and skeletal trailers.

Freighters Ltd (apparently after a champion racehorse of the time) and held their first AGM in late 1945. The main order of business? Buying McGrath Trailer Equipment.

Peter White, an experienced industry professional, purchased the business in late December 1982 and it was renamed Freighter Australia Manufacturing.

With White’s laser focus on costs and product innovation,

Pictured in front of the Freighter offices, this Freighter tandem axle flat top was ready for customer delivery. Photo circa 1960s.

as well as some inspired licensing arrangements, by 1985 the new Freighter celebrated the manufacture of 600 trailers in two years. It saw continued growth through the 1990s.

More geographic and product diversification followed, and by the late 1990s Freighter’s performance drew the attention of a respected industry performer, Jim Curtis, who created Maxi-CUBE, which had been ASX-listed in 1994.

He was looking for a big step forward to achieve his growth aims. Freighter was a much bigger fish than Maxi-CUBE, but that didn’t stop him. In 1998, Freighter was acquired by Curtis’ business and later that year, MaxiTRANS was established.

Freighter’s standing was so well-established that its name was retained and Freighter products became a key com-

ponent of the MaxiTRANS business. Its status continued throughout the 2000s, as MaxiTRANS underwent a period of significant acquisitions and growth.

Today, Freighter is celebrating 75 years as Australia’s longest standing trailer brand.

While it has gone through significant changes through its journey, the brand continues to deliver on its promise of high quality, high performance trailing equipment with an unmatched network of national back up support.

“Freighter’s long and successful history is owed to our loyal customers. Many of our customers are two or three generation Freighter loyalists.

It is this on-going support that has helped build the legacy that Freighter prides itself on and will continue to be a

part of every locally manufactured high quality trailer that is produced,” said Dean Jenkins, MaxiTRANS Managing Director & CEO. “We sit here today reflecting on the great achievements of Freighter, from introducing the first curtain sided trailer into the Australian market, known in the Freighter family as the Tautliner, through to continuing to push the boundaries on Performance-Based Standards.”

Jenkins said that finding innovative ways for customers to get more out of their equipment has been a common theme of the brand over the years.

To celebrate its 75th birthday, a limited edition Freighter 75th year Diamond Pack has been released, available across the Freighter range throughout 2021.

1. Strong one piece handle operation 2. 160x100 Bolt Pattern 3. Heavy duty Australian bushes 4. Rotating locking pin 5. Reinforced funnel 6. The ability to fit air operation, sensor options and jack knife sensor options

AD FEATURE TRAILERS 33

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

MaxiTRANS boosts manufacturing capabilities

A new purpose-built heavy-duty trailer manufacturing facility in Carole Park, in Ipswich, Queensland, will provide an added boost to MaxiTRANS’ Australian manufacturing capability, replacing the facility in Richlands.

“The new Carole Park facility is an exciting expansion for MaxiTRANS which will provide greater safety, flexibility, efficiency and quality outcomes for our business and our customers,” said Dean Jenkins, MaxiTRANS Managing Director and CEO. The 14,303 square metre site adds to the company’s existing manufacturing footprint across metropolitan and regional Victoria.

“Designed to match the equipment levels and standard processes available at Ballarat, Carole Park will provide greater capacity to the MaxiTRANS Group and will allow us to continue to better serve our customers with the ability to cover any total market growth,” added Jenkins.

“The existing manufacturing site in Richlands predominantly produced bulk trans-

The new facility is expected to create up to 70 new jobs.

port trailers. This new facility has the ability to also manu-

facture Freighter product too, allowing us to diversify our

manufacturing capability.”

Transition to the new

facility will create up to an estimated 70 new jobs over

the next five years, thanks to Queensland Government support as part of Unite and Recover, an initiative designed to support Queensland jobs and industry through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“With the help of the Queensland Government, we have a new facility that gives us more scope and flexibility to expand our Australian manufacturing capability, as well as further bolster our aftersales support here in Queensland,” said Jenkins.

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz recently toured the new facility and said it will be a huge boost to the heavy vehicle industry. “I congratulate Dean Jenkins and the team at MaxiTRANS on the opening of their new facility and wish them great success into the future.

“Through measures like Job Keeper and our Budget Stimulus we have been able to keep businesses like MaxiTRANS going, Australians in jobs and the economy pumping.”

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FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

There is something new in the air

FEATURING a simple, easy to use, in-cab lock release system, the air release option for HOLLAND fifth wheels has been available for decades – proving itself as a perfect solution for many fleets over the past 50 years.

Initially designed for terminal tractor applications, HOLLAND originally introduced the air release option for terminal tractor and yard spotter manufacturers Terberg and Calmar Ottawa Trucks. The product was then brought to Australia by Daysworth International as a standard fifth wheel for its terminal tractors.

This air release option was then extended to other HOLLAND fifth wheel models; with the brand’s most versatile FW351 fifth wheel providing some of the greatest benefits for fleets and transport operators.

Some fleets have been a little slow to make use of the

technology due to a common misconception that accidentally flicking the switch could release the fifth wheel while the truck is in motion – but that’s far from the truth. In fact, with the HOLLAND “interlock air operated system”, the only way to get air to the unlocking cylinder is when the vehicle is in park with the emergency brake engaged, adding an extra safety component to the complete system.

Once the truck park brakes are applied, then with a simple pull of a dash-mounted air switch a pneumatic cylinder on the fifth wheel releases the locking mechanism. While preventing accidental release of the fifth wheel lock, the unique air-assisted interlock still allows manual operation if necessary. As the air release option is operated from within the cabin, it also means that hands and clothes are

k e p t free of grease a n d grime.

A recent trend has been the installation of the air release switch at the chassis, near the fifth wheel.

This means the driver still has to get out of the cabin to perform a visual inspection of successful uncoupling but doesn’t need to manipulate the release handle. As a result, it reduces the chance of injuries like dislocated shoulders, strained backs, muscle strain or fatigue, especially during bad weather or when access to the release handle is difficult.

To further enhance the product’s safety, HOLLAND has also introduced an electronic sensor system called ELI-teTM that monitors the locked/unlocked condition

of the fifth wheel with air release option.

The status of the coupling attempt is shown by the LED lights installed on the fifth wheel (white or red), assisting the driver to prevent mistakes before they happen.

The FW351 fifth wheel with Air Release option.

The ELI-teTM is especially useful when coupling, since it not only has the LED indicator lights, it also

has LED illuminators that assist the driver to confirm that the king-pin is properly locked into the fifth wheel.

AIR RELEASE FIFTH WHEEL HOLLAND Fifth wheel the perfect solution for over 50 years FEATURES

Driver efficiency is improved

• Dependable & durable Air Release technology derived from decades of terminal tractor experience • Suits FW351 & FW331 • Secondary lock functionality maintained • Fifth wheel can be manually released if required

• The HOLLAND Air Release system helps them stay on schedule.

Drivers are more comfortable • Safer, less strain, fatigue, and potential for injury, especially in bad weather or when access to the release handle is difficult. You may even reduce workers compensation costs.

Drivers will feel better •

No more greasy, grimy hands and clothes, or unnecessary cleanup time.

RECOMMENDED OPTIONS HOLLAND control system • Air Release System is only operational when ignition in the ‘on’ position • Visual & audible alerts

ELI-te™ • Warns driver of open/unlocked jaws • Assist driver to easily verify coupling status

SAF-HOLLAND (Aust.) Pty. Ltd ABN: 79004371215 | Sales: 1300 131 613 Email: sales@safholland.com.au

www.safholland.com.au

AD FEATURE TRAILERS 35

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

Finding the right balance

Centramatic says that switching from the typical non-balanced wheel condition to its automatic balancing of all wheels on a trailer combination and drive can increase tyre life by 25-50 per cent.

A leading force in wheel balancing technology, Centramatic Australia’s simple and cost effective solution provides permanent balancing on all trailer/drive wheels.

Centramatic balancers increase tyre life and improve fuel consumption, extend suspension life and reduce driver fatigue. They also decrease vibration by reducing the unbalanced wheels pounding effect, which causes side wall flex heat build-up in tyres. The balancers act as a cooling fin to dissipate heat so the tyres run cooler and road friction resistance and rolling resistance is reduced, meaning you use less horsepower and less fuel.

Many transport operators are taking advantage of larger trailer combinations to help boost efficiency and profitability. As the rigs get bigger and more productive, we’re seeing multi trailer combinations with more tyres on the ground than ever before.

With that said, it’s surprising that tyres are often

overlooked when it comes to looking for ways to try and save on running costs.

Operators often only balance the prime mover’s steer tyres. But with fuel accounting for around 28 per cent of total running costs, tyre rolling resistance responsible for up to 33 per cent of fuel consumption, and trailer/ drive tyres contributing for 90 per cent of this resistance, it makes sense to balance all of the tyres on a multi trailer combination.

By bolting just two Centramatic balance rings in between the dual wheels, all four wheels on the axle remain permanently balanced.

Centramatic balancers are made for most wheel sizes including 15”, 17.5”, 19” and 22.5” rims; with most typical stud patterns available (from 5-8 stud and differing 10 stud Euro and US patterns).

The company is also currently undertaking long term testing of patented drive/ trailer spider balancer.

The balancers work by

utilising centrifugal force and deflection to automatically distribute movable weights precisely where needed to remove the imbalance of all the rotating mass of the wheel and brake assembly.

According to Centramatic, switching from the typical non-balanced wheel condition to its automatic balancing of all wheels on a trailer combination and drive can result in tyre life increasing by 25-50 per cent. This is on top of a 1-3 per cent reduction in fuel costs due to a reduction in road friction resistance and rolling resistance caused by the pounding effect of the unbalanced wheel, so less horsepower is required to keep things moving.

Just as in other machinery like industrial fans and vehicle motors, an out of balance spinning part can quickly destroy itself and reduce the life of other components attached to it. Out of balance wheels are no different. They can affect the tyres on the opposing end of an axle, along

Centramatic balancers increase tyre life, improve fuel consumption, extend suspension life and reduce driver fatigue.

with the axles themselves.

The effects of vibration are a major source of wheel nut failure and suspension fatigue too.

Less trailer bounce when running empty and enhanced braking results in reduced wheel lock-up, therefore re-

ducing the chance of flat spots and scalloping on tyres.

With a life expectancy tested to over three million kilometres, Centramatic balancers are a cost-effective way to save on tyre and fuel costs.

Centramatic trailer balancers have the highest ca-

Never balance your wheels again!

Centramatic explained

tyre life up to 35%+ • Increase vibration • Reduce tyre cupping wear • Reduce ride • Smoother Tyres run cooler: 10% • Extend suspension5 -life • Environmentally friendly US, Centramatic balancers are available for European and large Japanese trucks •

CIRCULAR TUBE DURAMETAL SPHERES OUT-OF- BALANCE POINT IN DAMPING FLUID

The Centramatic on-board balancing system is a patented harmonic device. The balancer uses centrifugal force and to automatically distribute balancing media precisely where needed to remove imbalance.

The balancer consists of a mounting plate and circular tube, with small Durametal spheres and damping making up the balancing media.

Automatically balances your wheels while you drive

pacity counterbalance available. For example, its 22.5” balancers have approximately 750 grams of movable weight along with the largest cooling surface area, which is around five times the capacity of other comparable products on the market.

MOUNTING PLATE

Unbalanced wheel Balancing weights move automatically opposite out-ofbalance point while balancing the wheel.

1300 822 765

Balanced wheel Evenly distributed spheres show an already balanced wheel.

Scan the QR code with your smart phone reader and visit our website

www.centramatic.com.au

36 NEWS

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

AMA Group buys truck repair facility in Newcastle

Rodney Landers of National Truck Repairs and AMA Heavy Motor CEO Darren Wales.

AMA Group has announced it has recently acquired its ninth major Heavy Motor repair facility, Newcastle’s National Truck Repairs and National Central.

Darren Wales, AMA’s CEO Heavy Motor Division said the newly acquired business is a perfect strategic fit for the ever expanding Heavy Motor Division. “National Truck Repairs is such a well-run and respected industry leader in the heavy vehicle repair sector, we are delighted to have them on board to complement our burgeoning team.

“Having a facility of this

calibre in the Newcastle region complements our National Repair Network, which is the only heavy vehicle repair organisation to have such a national presence.”

Rodney Landers of National Truck Repairs added, “We looked long and hard before joining Darren and the AMA Heavy Motor team.

Having the backing of such an organisation like AMA, with the systems and process that they have put in place is second to none. Their commitment to the industry for the long term gave us piece of mind to provide our custom-

HAVING A FACILITY OF THIS CALIBRE IN THE NEWCASTLE REGION COMPLEMENTS OUR NATIONAL REPAIR NETWORK, WHICH IS THE ONLY HEAVY VEHICLE REPAIR ORGANISATION TO HAVE SUCH A NATIONAL PRESENCE. DARREN WALES

er base an exceptional level of service and satisfaction for many years to come.”

Wales said that despite the recent change of the Group’s CEO, it is business as usual.

“Myself and our executive team are laser focused on providing our clients, both transport operators and insurers alike, with exceptional service and competitive pricing struc-

tures,” he said. “We are 100 per cent committed to this task. Companies will always undergo change. Our staff, management and technicians are the backbone of our company. This is what sets us apart from our competition.”

AMA Heavy Motor Division now consists of 250 staff across nine sites: Parins Truck Repairs (Perth), All Transport Smash (SA), Western Truck Repairs (Vic), Recar Truck Repairs (Brisbane, Townsville, Clayton), Wales Truck Repairs (NSW), Wales Bus Repairs (NSW) and National Truck Repairs (Newcastle).

Official launch of $450,000 SA truck drivers’ simulator AN industry-first driver simulator is expected to have its first trainees behind the wheel within a matter of weeks.

Officials cut the ribbon on the HVSim – a $450,000 investment by federal and state governments – at the official opening of the South Australian Road Transport Association’s new HQ at 83 Wellington Street, Port Adelaide last month.

Designed by Adelaide-based simulator specialist Oktal Sydac and loaded on a purpose-built trailer from ALDOM Transport Engineering, the HVSim will be transported around SA to give drivers of all levels the chance to hone their skills on some of the state’s most challenging roadways.

SA Minister for Transport Corey Wingard said the simulator will also be used to conduct research into driver behaviour and road design testing.

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto makes a speech at the official opening, alongside SARTA President Sharon Middleton and SA Premier Steven Marshall. Picture: Angie Matheson.

The NHVR chipped in $350,000 to pay for the equipment, with a further $100,000 coming from the state.

Transport Minister Michael McCormack said the cutting-edge simulator would help existing and learner

heavy vehicle drivers navigate the South Eastern Freeway descent for example, with a focus on improving safety behind the wheel.

“Truck drivers will undergo training and assessments in the simulator and there is scope for expanding the pro-

gram to cover other high-risk routes in South Australia and across the country,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“The Australian Government takes road safety seriously because no family should have to endure the devastation caused by road crashes.

“That is why we continue investing in critical initiatives to improve road safety to save lives and reduce road trauma, including across our heavy vehicle sector.”

NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto, said the simulator was an example of how the regulator and SARTA were working with the South Australian and Federal Governments to deliver a great outcome for local heavy vehicle drivers.

“The simulator was partly funded by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Federal Government, which has delivered $22.8 million across

The new drivers’ simulator will be transported around SA to give drivers of all levels the chance to hone their skills on some of the state’s most challenging roadways. Picture: Angie Matheson.

89 grants in five years,” said Petroccitto.

“Through these grants and with the support of organisations like SARTA and

the South Australian Government we can continue to drive down the number of crashes involving heavy vehicles on our roads.”

YOUR TRANSPORT MANUFACTURING SPECIALIST 5 Year Structural Chassis Warranty

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38 COLUMNS

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Jurisdictions must get on board Freight Movement Protocol

AT the time of writing this column, Australia is at a seminal moment in its battle against the coronavirus pandemic.

The rollout of the national vaccination program is underway and headlines are awash with euphoria that the end of Covid-19 is beginning. It is indeed a tremendous achievement and a credit to the scienAT THE WHEEL tific and medical community DAVID MEREDITH contributors@bigrigs.com.au that an effective vaccine has been developed in record time.

Without wanting to dampen enthusiasm over this great milestone, it is however important to remember that Covid isn’t going away in the short-medium term, and that we will be living with the virus strains for at least 24-36 EDITOR months as the community is

vaccinated and herd immunity established. This means that we will have to remain in a state of preparedness for new community outbreaks like we saw recently in Victoria and WA, which will mean further lockdowns and associated restrictions on travel and border crossings.

With this being the case, it is high time our state and federal representatives stood up to the challenge of doing something much more permanent about managing disciplines that have been enacted in response to Covid, especially when it comes to the movement of freight. Many have stumbled and bumbled in their response TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER to isolated DAVID VILE community outcontributors@bigrigs.com.au breaks, showing ineptitude by closing borders with little to no notice given to industry and the community, and ambivalence by shirking commitments they made to keep state and national supply chains functional.

Each of these jurisdictions has established its own form of communication and reactions TASSIE when itTRUCKIN’ comes to interstate and

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

JAMES GRAHAM

JON WALLIS

intrastate travel restrictions, regrettably to the detriment of the road freight transport industry.

Logistics operators have demonstrated they can adhere to new disciplines to keep freight moving, with many adjusting their business activities so they exceed standards required by government. The industry should be applauded for being able to move freight through the community during a pandemic, without moving the virus around, which shows that by being committed, responsible and diligent, freight workers have refrained from transmitting infection.

Unfortunately, the industry continues to be ignored by some sections of the bureaucracy, despite the results produced and the increase in community demand for freight services.

Last April, the Commonwealth called all state transport ministers together to formulate and sign off on a Protocol for Domestic Border Controls – Freight Movements. This Freight Movement Protocol

Despite a Freight Movement Protocol being ratified in August, minimum standards of border crossing protocols are still not being met.

was ratified in August, and clearly defined minimum standards jurisdictions would need to meet when borders were necessarily closed.

As an essential service, the freight industry has been consistently let down by state authorities when it comes to application of these minimum standards whenever a border is closed.

Our worst fears were realised on February 11 when a B-double truck driver travelling at 100 km/h around a bend on the Western Highway at 2.20am, ran into the back of the last vehicle in a seven-kilometre line of traffic. The vehicles were stopped because of a border closure that did not meet the minimum standards

of border crossing protocols.

The driver, Steven Lawrie, died tragically at the scene and our condolences and heartfelt sorrow go out to his family and friends. Two others were hospitalised and are recovering from their injuries.

The accident that claimed Mr Lawrie’s life did not need to occur.

By providing a diversion and wave-through lane for essential travellers, as per the national protocol, the location and operation of this particular border lockdown would not have resulted in a fatality, which begs the question: what’s the point of having a protocol if the bureaucracy isn’t prepared to follow it? The protocol was implemented for the pro-

tection of all drivers, not just freight transport workers, and it is disappointing and a great tragedy that lessons must be learned through road accidents and fatalities that were preventable.

The transport industry does not begrudge jurisdictions for taking steps to defend their citizens against Covid-19 and unwanted community transmission. But we do begrudge the lack of application of disciplines that are intended to keep freight moving efficiently, productively and safely.

Throughout the pandemic the freight industry has protected the community and provided their needs. Our drivers are deserving of the same protections to keep them safe.

At last a toll win for owner-drivers in New South Wales TWU NEWS

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

WE have a win, there is now some relief for owner-drivers relating to toll roads.

For many years, owner-drivers have had little chance for cost recovery of their toll road costs. TWU members have remained worried about the

exorbitant costs of toll roads and the impact on their transport businesses. Owner-drivers have told the TWU that the forced use of the NorthConnex LEGAL means EAGLE that many will now pay ROWAN KING tolls where they never have had Principal Lawyer RK Law to before.

For many years the TWU has been putting pressure on the decision makers to make sure that you as a owner-driver are covered for toll road costs.

We have had success in that approach and now the TWU have secured an agreement that means changes will be made to the Road Safety Contract. You

now have a mechanism in place that will enable you to recover tolls from your principal contractor.

This means that your principal contractor will now be required to cover you for road tolls when you are on the job.

They can provide you an electronic tag to do that, but in the long run, they are responsible for the toll road costs you incur moving their load.

For transport workers this is a necessary move because the targeting of truck drivers has continued. We all know that the number of Toll Roads

are growing, we all know that the costs they create for owner-drivers in NSW are astronomical.

The TWU is frustrated that the deals made by governments are still enabling Transurban to continue their targeting of heavy vehicles with the sole purpose of increasing profits for their infrastructure business.

Despite being aware of the impact on small business, every day since the opening of the NorthConnex, the NSW Government have denied owner-drivers a free alternative route.

It’s not justifiable in the midst of the current pandemic that transport operators, including owner drivers have borne the brunt of Transurban’s Covid pain while Transurban without consultation to the transport industry, increased toll prices by up to 4 per cent a quarter. These increases will continue for decades and leave our grandchildren in debt for the future.

There is no congestion busting solution brought about by Toll Roads, instead there are more opportunities for the future growth of Transurban.

The company already wants the Sydney Western Harbour Tunnel project and the proposed connection of the M7 to Badgery’s Creek.

We are still looking for a free alternative, to keep the roads fair.

The cost recovery win in the Road Safety Contract means a great step forward for a fairer Transport industry for owner-drivers. The TWU are still working, all through 2021 we will be maintaining the pressure to raise standards for transport workers. We urge you to join the fight with us.

COLUMN 39

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

Delivering on driver health SAFETY, HEALTH AND WELLBEING DIRECTOR MELISSA WELLER Australian Trucking Association

RESULTS from the latest Driving Health Study from Monash University show us that truck driver health in Australia is poor, with drivers more likely to be overweight and be diagnosed with more chronic health conditions than the general population.

The survey of nearly 1,400 drivers found more than half to be categorised as obese, with more than a third reporting to have diagnosed back problems and high blood pressure. The survey also found that nearly 20 per cent of respondents had been diagnosed with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety in the last year.

Of those who experienced a mental health condition, 38.2 per cent said their workplace caused it or made it worse (SuperFriend Transport, Postal and Warehousing Profile Report, July 2020). These findings are unacceptable, so our industry must focus on solutions and better support our workforce to be mentally and physically healthier.

Comprehensive accreditation standards like TruckSafe are already making a difference for accredited operators’ employees.

By industry, for industry, TruckSafe is a robust system that improves the safety and professionalism of trucking operators nationwide, from business and risk management to driver health and wellbeing.

Our driver health and wellbeing standard is in place to ensure all drivers are fit and healthy, and that workplace

The Monash survey found that nearly 20 per cent of respondents had been diagnosed with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety in the last year.

health and safety requirements are being met.

It requires that accredited members’ drivers complete regular driver medical examinations, with drivers 50 years and over required to have a yearly medical. Additionally, TruckSafe accredited operators are required to have driver health and a fitness for duty policies and practical procedures.

Ensuring driver safety at work is also a focus in the TruckSafe standards. By having safe and trusted procedures our members report that they see less stress in their workplace and experience less staff turnover. Our employees are our biggest asset. We must put looking after them first.

There are countless examples of how TruckSafe’s driver health and wellbeing standard has raised the bar for driver safety and delivered real outcomes for operators, as one of our members Fellows Bulk Haulage notes.

“I had a driver who was getting constant headaches.

When he went in for his TruckSafe medical it was discovered he had sky-high blood pressure and we were able to take him off the road,” Fellows

Bulk Haulage Director Paul Fellows said.

“Another driver went for his TruckSafe medical and the doctor discovered a melanoma, which was promptly removed,” Paul said.

Not only do these driver medicals ensure truck driv-

ers are fit to drive and be safe on the road, they also play an enormous and key role in maintaining staff health and wellbeing generally - in each of these cases they have saved lives.

Driver health isn’t only about physical wellbeing,

it also encompasses mental health. As an industry, trucking has made great strides in improving mental health support and resources – most recently with the establishment of the Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds (HHTS) foundation.

With the support of industry and a strong national mental health and wellbeing strategy, HHTS aims to increase the number of people trained in mental health at transport and logistics facilities, standardise policies and regulation at these facilities, and help everyone in in the industry be healthier from a diet and mental health perspective.

On a more localised level, the ATA’s member associations are leading the way in improving driver health outcomes.

The Queensland Trucking Association’s ‘Driving Better Health’ initiative is focused on promoting practical, small steps towards a substantial change in overall lifestyle choices of truck drivers.

Meanwhile, the Victorian

Transport Association’s ‘HeadFit BusinessFit’ program is designed to create a positive workplace environment in employer companies by building workplace cultures, positive leadership, systems and process and individual support into transport and logistics organisations.

TruckSafe, Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds, and industry association initiatives are all examples of national and state-based action the industry is taking to improve driver health and wellbeing.

The findings in the Monash report are not reflective of where we want to be as an industry, but there is a lot of work being done to make things better.

With the support of our peers, governments, and the wider community, we can achieve our goal of making a truck driver’s workplace a safer and healthier space for all.

To find out more about TruckSafe or to join, head to www.trucksafe.com.au

The findings in the report are not reflective of where we want to be as an industry, but there is a lot of work being done to make things better.

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40 DRIVER PROFILES

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Tassie Truckin’

with Jonathan Wallis

Jack White PASSING through Kempton recently we caught up with Jack White, from Hobart, when he dropped in to the Caltex there for a refreshment break.

Damien Viney

With his eye-catching hair colour, he certainly stopped us, momentarily, in our tracks, but he explained: “Well I just thought I’d like to do something different for a change

and make life interesting for a while.”

White was driving a 2014 Cleanaway 410 Volvo Euro 5 rigid Tautliner and was on his return leg from Launceston to Hobart at the time, and would then knock off for the day.

“I’ve been with them for 16 months now, and I would have to say they are a great crowd to work for, I enjoy the job and work with a really good supportive crew, also I like the hours, and always something interesting to do, and new people to meet along the way.

“I only got my truck licence a year ago, and I was made up to get out on the road and get into a truck, something I had always wanted to do. I certainly don’t have any regrets about my decision, or the hair colour.”

We asked how he spent his time off, and he told us he is kept busy almost daily, working on his Mitsubishi FTO, as there is always something needs attention.

Pagey, Taz and Mackenzie WE had recently stopped over at the Caltex at Epping Forest when Pagey and Taz plus 22-month-old Mackenzie, from Devonport, rolled in driving an RBA 2005 K104 for a refreshment break and a welcomed cuppa.

He was towing a fridge pan and was on his way down to Huonville with a load of general, and would then return

and knock off for the day. Tas and Mackenzie tell us that they really enjoy the chance to get out on the road every now and then, especially as Taz loves the truck.

Pagey tells us he has been with Bruce for six good months this time, echoing all the RBA drivers in saying what a great outfit it is.

He added that he will only

DRIVING through Epping Forest recently, we stopped over at the Caltex for a cuppa and a refreshment break when our old mate Damien Viney from Ulverstone rolled in for the same reasons, driving a Chas Kelly’s recent 450 Volvo Euro 5 and towing a fridge pan.

He was on his way from Margate with a load to catch the evening’s “Spirit” to Melbourne. He told us: “I’ve been with Chas for 6 months or so to date and it is all good now, great bunch of blokes and the Volvo is a pretty good truck, comfortable and ideal for the job.

“I have been on the rod now for 30 years or so and it’s been a good job and with no regrets.”

We asked him how he felt about the oncoming crop of young people trying to get into the industry, and he said: “Well in the good old days you started out doing 2-up with an experienced driver, and learning the job from the bottom up.

“That was undoubtedly the

best way but now it’s all about going through fancy and expensive driving schools, then getting a brand-new licence and getting out on the road without any real experience in big shiny high-powered trucks, what more can I say?”

We asked Viney how he spent his time off, and he told

us he has quarter horses on a few acres on the Leven River which keeps him busy.

“During the floods the other day we lost a fair bit of fencing, lots of work there!”

He also keeps busy with Rodeo events and is a judge both here in Tasmania and also on the Big Island.

Peter Chilcott

be there until Easter, as he will then be helping John out with his tow truck business prior to taking it over when he retires, as after 20 years on the road, a job he has never regretted, he feels a change will be welcome.

As for time off, he told us: “Well it’s mainly about family and friends, with a bit of 4-wheel driving and some camping thrown in.”

GREAT to catch up with Peter Chilcott, from North Motton the other day, when he pulled into Epping for a bite to eat.

He was driving a 2014 Chas Kelly 450, Euro 5, FM

Volvo and he was towing a Fridge pan on his return leg from Bridgewater back to Devonport and the TT Line’s Spirit of Tasmania ferry to Melbourne.

“I have only been back here for three months now, having moved back home from Melbourne, after 16 years driving on the Mainland,” he told us.

“It was great coming home to where I was born, and my family are here as well, to say nothing of the roads being way better and much quieter. Have to say I am enjoying being with Chas Kelly and the crowd here too. I’ve been on the road for 25 years or so, and it’s all been good with no real complaints other than driving in Melbourne’s traffic! It is definitely much kinder down here all round, and I love Tassie.”

Time off, he said, is mainly taken up with riding his Honda CBR 900, and family stuff when time is available.

“I will be glad to see my wife again as she has been stuck for the last 13 months in Bali owing to the Covid pandemic.”

“Truckies working for Truckies”

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DRIVER PROFILES 41

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

Truckin’ In The Tropics

FORMER star rugby league forward Chris Camenzuli drives an Isuzu for EPH and is based at Mareeba on the Atherton Tablelands, delivering Asian foods around north Queensland.

“Once a fortnight I travel down to Townsville, Bowen and Mackay. I have just deliv-

Rob Martin

ered goods to the Casino in Townsville. The other week deliveries are made to Cairns, Port Douglas and Mossman and places in between. The most popular things are coconut cream and noodles,” he said.

The 42-year-old truckie had started the job just four

weeks before I yarned to him on February 12.

“Before this I drove a Hino for a fruit farm. It was also a good job. I moved to Mareeba 10 years ago,” Camenzuli said.

Born at Ingham, he went to Palm Island 20 years ago and drove trucks while working on a road gang.

While there, Camenzuli earned a reputation as a quality football forward and was a key member of the Butler Bay Bulls side which beat the Jets in a Palm Island club final.

“I also played at Allblacks carnivals and my last one was against teams from Hope Vale and Woorabinda,” he said.

Estimating he would travel about 2000km a fortnight, Camenzuli said the Palmerston Highway from the Atherton Tablelands connecting with the Bruce Highway near Innisfail needed more work.

His favourite roadhouse is the Tully Mobil which he said had good access.

WORKING for Cairns based Simon George and Sons, Rob Martin was delivering supplies to the Central Hotel in Port Douglas when Big Rigs saw him driving a Hino Euro5 Series light rig.

A doting father of three daughters aged two, seven and 12, he delivers general and food to pubs, restaurants and other places and likes Port Douglas which is a busy town.

“I was born at Nambour but have been in Cairns for 30 years. My dad Snow got me into truck driving when I was 18,” he said.

Martin previously worked for six years as a courier driver and now has a MR licence.

He told us he wants to drive heavier trucks in the not too distant future.

According to Martin, the worst road he had encountered was some time ago between Cloncurry in the Queensland outback to the Three Ways in the NT.

Chris Middleton

Rob Horn

FULL of enthusiasm, Chris Middleton loves his job and is also training to be an aircraft pilot.

Aged 30, Middleton was parked at a pull off area along the Captain Cook Highway when I yarned to him recently.

He was driving an Isuzu for Tuxworth and Woods, which carts general freight five days a week from his Cairns base

WORKING for Dickinson Milk, based at Craiglea in north Queensland, a scenic place along the Captain Cook Highway near Port Douglas, we caught Rob Horn while he was hard at work in the rain.

The 58-year-old truckie, who has been in the job for nine years, was delivering milk and other dairy products to the General Store and Post Office at Mount Molloy, driving a refrigerated Hino.

Mount Molloy is 40km from Mareeba and a nice little hamlet through which many trucks pass on the way north, to places like Cooktown. Trucks often stop at the Mount Molloy Store for a bite to eat or a cold drink.

Dickinson Milk has been a supplier of dairy products, juice and smallgoods around the region for the past 12 years.

“I deliver milk, eggs and other products as far away

to Mossman and other nearby towns, as well as Wonga Beach.

“I drive along one of the most scenic routes in Australia and also do the occasional run to Mount Garnet,” he said.

Middleton takes his own food when working and has a small fridge and warmer with him.

As we spoke, an invasion of

March flies were flying around as well as numerous sand flies, which was not uncommon considering the area is beside the ocean.

Middleton’s hobby is learning to fly a plane and he’s already had lessons. “I am in training and hope to finish it and gain my pilot’s licence.

But lessons are very expensive,” he said.

as Cape Tribulation and the Hino is a little ripper,” said Horn, adding that the road between Mossman and the Daintree required extra care when travelling it.

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Outside of work, Horn enjoys camping wherever he can find a good spot and in the football season barracks for the Adelaide Crows in the AFL.

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Chris Camenzuli

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42 SPY ON THE ROAD

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Will many truckies rush to get the Covid-19 vaccine?

SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON

truck drivers would be included among the priority group considering the travel most do and the number of people they come into contact with.

I would expect that most who are offered the vaccination will want to receive it.

But only time will tell.

Vaccination uncertainty ONE might suspect that the majority of truck drivers will want to receive the Covid-19 vaccination when it is rolled out around Australia soon.

But after hearing plenty of discussion about the subject amongst drivers in recent weeks, Spy is not so sure.

It seems a lot of our drivers are against vaccinations, which can be a divisive subject.

The vaccines will become available in phases to those in priority groups which have been identified using public health, medical and epidemiological evidence.

This includes people that would be at higher risk of serious illness if they contracted Covid-19, and those most likely to be exposed to it.

You would think that

Truck show memory and a boxer AN appearance at a Brisbane Truck Show some years ago resulted in former NRL star forward Ben Hannant being popular among drivers around the country when he fought on an NRL rugby league Allstars Rivalry Boxing Extravaganza.

Hannant fought champion Canberra Raiders forward Josh Papalii at the Townsville Entertainment Centre on February 12.

A rank outsider in the bout over three rounds of two minutes duration, Hannant fought gallantly to lose on points.

The tournament was watched by a big crowd and by thousands more on pay television’s Main Event Channel.

Paulo knocked out Neville Costigan in round two, and Sandor Earl defeated Justin Hodges (unanimous points).

The NRL season is scheduled to commence in the second week of March.

A truck parked near a driver reviver site.

Spy heard from numerous truckies who had seen the lead up to the fights on the news.

“I am off work tonight so I’ll be heading up to a local pub to see the fights on television. Hannant was a guest at a stand at the Brisbane Truck Show about seven years ago,”

Ben Hannant (right), before his boxing bout with Canberra Raiders star Josh Papalii.

SACKED OWNER DRIVERS REDUNDANT OWNER DRIVERS

a Darwin driver told me.

Drivers from Hobart in Tasmania, Victoria, NSW, SA and WA also told Spy by phone or social media that Hannant had been at the Brisbane Truck Show.

One even thought that Hannant, who is now a radio announcer, had briefly worked as a truckie when retiring from football after the 2016 season.

Spy had to google his name to check out his appearance at the stand of a training group at the truck show.

Between 2005 and 2016 Hannant played eight NRL games for the Sydney Roosters, 148 for the Brisbane Broncos, 37 for the Canterbury Bulldogs and 52 for the North Queensland Cowboys.

Known as the ‘Polar Bear’, Hannant also represented the Queensland Maroons 12 times at State of Origin level, and played six Tests for Australia.

There were five other bouts on the night featuring former or current NRL players.

Craig Gower defeated Matt Bowen (by points), Todd Carney and Scott Prince fought a majority

draw, Willie Mason beat Sam Thaiday (split points), Junior

Magic words revival THESE were the words Spy had been waiting to hear from the mouth of one of the many champion volunteers at Driver Reviver sites around the country. “I wish more truck drivers would stop off here,” he told Spy. Controversy often reigns supreme when the subject of truck drivers using such driver reviver sites is heard.

Many truckies will tell you they rarely ever find one open and, even if they do, a volunteer will tell them they are mainly for car and van drivers.

Of course there are many

The agricultural town of Beverley in WA.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 trucks cannot access due to a lack of parking too.

This particular site where I heard the words seems to be open more regularly than others I have come across.

So I asked the elderly volunteer what inspired him to be there so often, especially during holiday periods.

“If I didn’t I’d just be sitting at home getting bored and getting told to-do jobs by the wife,” he said.

This site is busy most times when open and is near public toilets and shaded areas with seats.

“Not enough truck drivers stop here. I wish more would,” he said.

Beverley blitz SOME drivers have reported a recent police blitz around Beverley, a quiet agricultural town in Western Australia.

It is situated about 133km south east of Perth between York and Brookton on the Great Southern Highway.

Being located in the WA wheat belt, it is often busy with truck traffic.

The population is around 1000 and an interstate driver who was on assignment there

told me lots of law enforcement officers had been active.

So if you are travelling there, be warned so you don’t boost consolidated revenue.

Vale Seaman Dan IT was with great sadness that Spy heard of the passing of famous Torres Strait Islander singer Seaman Dan. I have lost count of the number of times over the past 20 odd years that I have come across truck drivers who have nominated Seaman Dan as one of their favourite singers.

Born in Thursday Island which is the business capital of the Torres Strait, Henry Gibson Dan AM – or ‘Seaman Dan’ as he became known – died in his sleep at home on December 30 at Edmonton, an outer suburb of Cairns.

The double ARIA Award winner was aged 92 and was laid to rest at Thursday Island.

I first met Seaman Dan back in 1996 when he was strumming his guitar and singing on the Thursday Island jetty entertaining visitors.

The late and great Seaman Dan has passed away, aged 92.

A day later he was making and selling his famous hot dogs at the Torres Hotel.

He was known around Australia and I even saw his sign up advising of performances at far off St Mary’s in eastern Tasmania.

Many truckies I have met had his CDs in their cabins and Seaman Dan possessed an enchanting voice.

Not only was Seaman Dan a wonderful musician but he was also a courteous gentleman.

Rest in Peace Seaman Dan. From NSW with love ONE of the advantages of being a longhaul truck driver is that you get to see many parts of Australia.

A NSW driver recently travelled to North Queensland with general freight and got to travel along what is known as the Canecutter Way between Silkwood and South Johnstone.

He fell in love with the 20km of winding road beside lush greenery and cane fields, not to mention the crystal clear waterways.

So when he got time off

in January, the lad took his lady for a romantic holiday up that way.

They visited the town of South Johnstone where the cane bin railway line crosses the main street.

At nearby Mena Creek they visited Paronella Park which was built in the 1930s and is on the site of a Spanish castle.

He was speaking to several truckies at a roadhouse and one told him that on his way home if he passes through Mackay a visit to the Eimeo Hotel is a must.

From the balcony of the hotel you can enjoy million dollar views featuring ocean and beaches, so they did stop off there.

The couple took the advice of another truckie who told them to make a ferry trip to Magnetic Island off Townsville too.

It ended up being a very romantic time for them.

I reckon those truckies who passed on advice could get jobs as travel consultants if they give up driving.

Big logs feedback NORTHERN Territory driver Dave Bradshaw was very interested in a piece in a recent column about big logs being displayed at Campbelltown in Tasmania and Millaa Millaa in Queensland.

The 52-year-old from Darwin found an old picture of a 56 tonne log which had been in WA back in the eighties.

He kindly sent the pic to Spy which was much appreciated. “It was from a Karri tree and was at Manjimup in WA and had been cut down and was on the back of a trailer. It was the biggest I have ever seen,” he said.

Goose guards superb WITH so many reports of break and enters in homes and properties around Australia, many people feel safer having a guard dog or two.

I often yarn to truck drivers who take their mutt on their travels for companionship and security.

The cane train railway line runs through the main street of South Johnstone on Canecutter Way.

They feel safe having a snooze at night in their sleeper box and are confident the pet will bark if anybody is up to no good around their vehicle.

Having said all that, Spy was very surprised to see a veteran owner-operator at a roadhouse who swears by geese as the best guards.

This Victorian gent has several on his property and said he had never been broken into while away or at home.

“If somebody tries to enter my property they honk like hell and will even attack people who they don’t know.

I rate them better guards than my dogs,” he said.

So the question I put to him was, does he ever take a guard goose on delivery trips as he gallivants around Oz? “No. Cause I would worry the goose may piddle or poo in the cabin,” he said.

Maintenance mania DURING wet seasons, many roads to remote areas of Australia are closed and some employed drivers are stood down or take holidays.

However that is not the case with many companies, including small fleet owners.

After speaking to many recently, reports to Spy indicate this is a time when truck maintenance is carried out.

Our mates may end up with oil and grease on their body but that is a small price to play for a continued decent income.

Some of the hard working lads even enjoy this period as they get to have an occasional drink at the pub, then spend the night with the wife or partner which is in stark contrast to when they are away for long periods.

Of course companies also pick up extra work delivering locally too.

COLUMNS 87

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JUNE 26 2020

44 PUZZLES

Sad day for all in transport

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 3

4

8 9 10 11 12

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 13era for the 14 transport15industry with the demise of this magazine under the restruc19 ture and rationalisation of News Corp.

It is a sad day for all of us in the 22 industry as Big Rigs magazine has been a part of our lives for almost 30 years.

For some, their entire careers so far.

24 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

5

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 November 2017.

In the interim, TWAL has had many16 successes and 17 18 achievements.

It has 20 expanded the relationship with Girl Guides Australia 21 and been involved with several successful projects with them, the Victorian Snoozefest in April 2018, the “Great Bag Migration” for the Interna23 tional Jamboree in Sydney in October 2018 and other interactions that are expanding the knowledge of the transport in25 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

Across

7

1 What is an elementary particle present in every atomic nucleus (6) 8 Which item of clothing is worn in cold weather (8) 9 What are dirigibles also called (6) 10 What do we call a visionary person (8) 11 Name another term for a fiddle (6) 12 What is a present known as (4) 13 Name a renowned Australian novelist, etc, Patrick ...

(5) 16 When one takes notice, one does what (5) 19 Name a crazed, earlier Roman emperor (4) 21 Who is known as the Great White Shark, Greg ... (6) 22 Name a chequered board game (8) 23 To have in mind, is to do what (6) 24 To be treated with nitric acid, is to be what (8) 25 What is a demand for a repetition of a song, etc (6)

Down

2 Name a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, Sir Walter ...

(7) 3 What is a pattern, mould, or the like (7) 4 To be nuzzling, is to be doing what (6) 5 What is an alternative term for width (7)

6 Which term describes leaves in general (7) 7 What are representations carved in stone or wood (7) 13 Which soft material is used for stuffing, packing, etc (7) 14 What are young children called (7) 15 What are puzzling things (7) 17 To be eccentric, is to be what (7) 18 A plumber is also called a what (7) 20 To be in agreement, is to be what (6)

P R A B L E V I G W H A D D R I N I G

O T E I M P O L E I T N F A U N T R S

O N O P S I I N G E N E I G H M A T S

B V E R E D E A D I F T H R O N O T S I N E D E N

F C O L L I A G E E R R M A T E I C O

S A T A S T U E D S R A N I N D E R E

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Across: 1 Proton, 8 Overcoat, 9 Blimps, 10 Idealist, 11 Violin, 12 Gift, 13 White, 16 Heeds, 19 Nero, 21 Norman, 22 Draughts, 23 Intend, 24 Nitrated, 25 Encore.

2

Down: 2 Raleigh, 3 Templet, 4 Nosing, 5 Breadth, 6 Foliage, 7 Statues, 13 Wadding, 14 Infants, 15 Enigmas, 17 Erratic, 18 Drainer, 20 Onside.

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 The Windsor Melbourne where we also presented our first four winners8of the Driving the Difference scholarships with our amazing sponsor, Daimler Truck and Bus Asia Pacific.12 We also presented the inaugural Trish Pickering Mem-

13

orial Award, sponsored by the 3 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 9 10 director and longest serving chair of Transport Women Australia Limited.

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

14

15

will 4be announced later 5 6 this year at an event still to be determined.

We have also launched our 7 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-

16

17

Across

gram.

1 I would Dash like to thank the 3

Remain fantastic team at Big Rigs 7 Frozenfor formation newspaper their incredible support and wish them on8 Praise going success. firm 11 Becomes I hope that I get the oppor12 Instruct tunity to continue to work with 13 Luxury some of them and so work to15 Circle wards making the trucking in18 Soapy latherappreciated, dustry a better 19 aBurn and safersuperficially place for our peo20 Happening ple.

21 23 24 25 26

Sibilant sound Move from side to side High mountain Stingy Sicilian volcano

Fighting to end the inequality: Big Rigs and TWU played their parts 19 18 HARD

T A C T S V E W

S T I S E H R I I N N T E A C E T

A Y C E T S I N G G E N V E V N A

HARD

E L A N B X E X A L T E R T R E A S U D S T E H I S S A L P M E A N

EASY

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

To quote one truck driver turned Australian senator, 21 “a death at work 22 Glenn Sterle, or on the road should not be the price of doing business”.

The TWU 24 puts it to governments that we must stop the inequality that exists between truck drivers and clients.

25must 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

20 23

26

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

MOORE TRAILERS

PITTSWORTH PHONE (07) 4693 1088 Fax (07) 4693 1545 email: sales@mooretrailers.com.au www.mooretrailers.com.au V1 - IBRE01Z01MA

losing their contracts and the ability to support their families.

It appears the government does not care.

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.

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Elan, 3 Stay, 7 Ice, 8 Exalt, 11 Sets, 12 Teach, 13 Treat, 15 Ring, 18 Suds, 19 Singe, 20 Event, 21 Hiss, 23 Weave, 24 Alp, 25 Mean, 26 Etna.

Down: 1 Exerts, 2 Abated, 4 Tie, 5 Acting, 6 Yes, 9 Leases, 10 Tat, 11 Shrine, 14 Rutile, 16 Intact, 17 Geneva, 19 Sew, 21 Ham, 22 Spa.

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 readers: now is the time to unite, now is the time to ensure 1 Makes effort equality in this industry.

2 Lessened in intensity we can stand on 4 Together Neckwear common ground working to 5 Performing ensure the government contin6 toAcceptance ues support transport work9 and Letting ers thecontracts industry they 10 Make lace support.

TWU will continue to 11The Hallowed place voice the needs of transport 14 Titanium dioxide workers to the employers, 16 Whole their industry bodies and the 17 Swiss city clients.

19Better Ply the needle mean job standards 21 Poor actor (coll) a safer security and ultimately 22 fairer Mineral spring and industry for all.

We can lift the standards we need together – our lives depend on it.

More Trailer For Your Money

E

A

oads

WA CAMPAIGNER CAM DUMESNY

Western Roads Federation CEO

COST CUTTER CHET CLINE AIR CTI founder/owner

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH contributors@bigrigs.com.au

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

EXPERT ADVICE 45

Why do I have to use an Insurance Broker?

I SPY ON THE ROAD ISPY@BIGRIGS.COM.AU

INSURANCE GURU MARK BROWN

Manager, TBI Insurance Services

YOU don’t have to, it’s up to you. But, before you go it alone, it would be a good idea to take some notes of the following and read everything, then read it again, then read it again until you understand it!

Firstly you will need to determine which insurances you are required toEXPERT have under legTELEMATICS islation (Law), then determine SHANNON KYLE Safety specialist, Teletraceach Navmanpart howsolutions you will insure of your business and the values you would need to insure each part for and then read the policy wording to see how the insurance policy would respond to how you have insured your business.

If you are dealing with a direct insurer the onus is on YOU to read all the documents they provide and if they don’t provide such things as the PDS/ Policy Wordings you may need to go searching for such documents on the insurers websites, then download and/or print them yourself and then read them yourself making sure you understand everything written in them.

It is also important to establish who is actually on your side. As such you need to understand the difference between a “Broker” and an “Agent”. Always check the fine print as some agents call themselves brokers however if you read the fine print you may actually find that they are in fact agents for the insurers.

A “Broker” in the truest sense of the word, represents the client and obtains quotes from many different insurers on your behalf.

An “Agent” is a representative of the insurer, in other words a salesperson for an insurance company.

Also, if you have opted to

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT JACQUELENE BROTHERTON

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS

deal direct with an insurer, you will also be on your own if you need to make a claim. It will be at this time that you will find out whether or not you have beenOZ diligent and requested the THE TRUCKER correctWILLIAMS type of insurance covers MIKE contributors@bigrigs.com.au and insured amounts and how the policy that you have arranged and its policy wording will respond to what you may be claiming.

Why would it be a battle for me when I make a claim you may say? Simple statistics tell us the answer to that one, and you are not alone here, this is also something that State & Federal politicians and their bureaucrats don’t seem to unLOBBYIST derstand.

STEVE SHEARER

most people elect to remove the amount of cover they have just to save a couple of dollars, unfortunately the couple of dollars they have saved when takingNEWS out a policy may end up TWU costing them 10’s of thousands RICHARD OLSEN

of dollars if they need to make a claim.

Please remember that Commercial Insurance is one of the most significant purchases you willEAGLE make. The purchase LEGAL of insurance ROWAN KING requires knowl-

Chair of Transport Women Australia

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NSW State Secretary

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

edge, research, evaluation of the types of cover available and the insurers that offer the cover needed for your individual business.

If you engage the services of an insurance broker, they will

Principal Lawyer RK Law

SA Road Transport Association Executive Director

IF YOU ENGAGE THE SERVICES OF AN INSURANCE BROKER, THEY WILL WORK WITH YOU TO IDENTIFY THE POTENTIAL RISKS AND HELP YOU NAVIGATE THROUGH THE INSURANCE JARGON. The vast majority of insurance claims in Australia that are declined by insurance companies are the insurance policies that have been arranged by an individual directly with an insurance company. This is where the underlying issue begins, and it is human nature that is usually the culprit that leads to many claims being denied.

Quite simply, it’s human nature that tells us when we are arranging our own insurance to take the cheapest option and the old saying comes to mind (and most of us are guilty of this one) “ oh I don’t need to insure that, that’s never going to happen to me”! Then the ol’ “Murphy’s Law” kicks in and inevitably it does happen.

Usually the reason for someone dealing direct with an insurer is because they are after the cheapest premium possible, however in order to achieve the cheapest premium,

The vast majority of insurance claims in Australia that are declined by insurance companies are the insurance policies that have been arranged by an individual directly with an insurance company.

work with you to identify the potential risks and help you navigate through the insurance jargon (policy wordings and their meanings) whilst also explaining covers and outlining exclusions, among many other factors.

Important: All answers and information contained within this article should be considered as General Advice Only. This advice should only be considered as General in Nature and its intent is only to prompt the readers to investigate their own individual insurances. It has been prepared without taking into account the readers own individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, before acting on the above advice, the client or any persons should consider its appropriateness (having regard to their objectives, needs and financial situation) and seek further independent advice from their own financial advisor.

A “Broker” in the truest sense of the word, represents the client and obtains quotes from many different insurers on your behalf.

46 CAREERS AND TRAINING

FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Go-getting truckies are loving life on the road

To commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8, Big Rigs meets two trailblazing female drivers making their mark at Hernes Freight Service.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

Samantha Haynes joined Hernes in October 2020, doing interstate work.

AS the daughter of a truckie, Samantha Haynes (32) has been around trucks her whole life – and she’s put in the hard yards to get to where she wants to be.

Based in Brisbane, Haynes has been steering trucks since 2015, starting her current gig with refrigerated transport business Hernes Freight Service in October 2020.

“My Dad is a truck driver.

He’s been one my whole life.

He drives a cane truck, picking up wood for Rose Gum Haulage. Growing up, he would pick me up and take me for a ride in the truck after school,” said Haynes, who can now be found driving a bright and bold Hernes 540hp Volvo Globetrotter hooked up to a refrigerated semi.

Her truck driving career began in Rockhamp-

ton, driving a site tipper for post-cyclone roadworks.

“I left there and moved back to Brisbane and drove a rigid, delivering alcohol to cruise ships in an eight-pallet truck,” she said.

“Then I went to Karreman in 2017 and started in eight-wheelers. I worked hard and wanted to go bigger and get into truck and dogs, so I’d get in a truck and train after work to learn with another driver. Sometimes I’d spend the whole week with them. I put in about 40 hours of training with other drivers.”

Fast forward to now and she’s landed a great job with a company that treats her well.

Haynes does interstate work for Hernes, transporting refrigerated goods from Brisbane to Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.

She’s one of only two female drivers there. Both Haynes and Corrina Riley

Easter Group Pty Ltd

FOR

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:

VOLVO FH600

2013 Model, lot of custom work.

Full history comes with cab respray. $170,000 inc GST *Also 2016/17 Models avail.

UD CK10

2013 Model, Auto G/Box, only done light work.

Very well maintained, tidy unit.

10 PLT Tautliner body.

Sold Unreg’d as is where is. $40,000 inc GST

WESTERN STAR 4864FXB 2014 Model, DD15, Eaton ultra shift, cab respray. $170,000 inc GST *Also set of 2015 Models avail.

Full Service History avail on all Models.

Email: kenny3@kseaster.com.au | Phone: 0418 724 950

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 To apply for the Operations/Driver positions please contact Leanne Braid (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 Michael MacRae (Workshop Manager) via email to employment@kseaster.com.au

CAREERS AND TRAINING 47

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 5 2021 (44) joined the company just last year.

Riley started with Hernes a few months earlier, in June, travelling locally in everything from a rigid to a B-double.

“I moved to Brisbane three years ago when my son turned seven to follow my passion of truck driving.

Seeing the Hernes’ trucks driving around, I knew that’s where I wanted to be so I went for it. We had 40 acres and all the animals you could ever want,” but she decided to pack it all up to follow her dream.

Riley got into trucks through her ex-husband, who drove road trains. “He was a truckie and driving this great big road train with three trailers – and that was the very first truck I learned to drive in.”

Though there were no female truckies at Hernes in Brisbane at the time, Riley was determined.

“I used to see their trucks going up and down the highway. They keep them really clean and shiny and they sound amazing. I love the sound of a truck. When I started last year, it was in the middle of COVID – I pestered them for a job and I think they were sick of hearing from me,” she laughed.

“I didn’t have a lot of experience on paper and it was really hard to find someone that would give me a go.

“I met the driver trainer and got to take him for a drive in the truck because

I WANT GIRLS TO KNOW THAT’S IT’S NOT SO BAD ON THE ROAD. I WAS SCARED TO START WITH AND IT’S ENDED UP BEING THE BEST THING I’VE EVER DONE. SAMANTHA HAYNES

he wanted to see how well I could drive. I said I’d work two weeks for free and if I was any good they could hire me, but he said there was no need, you’ve got it. He was pretty impressed.

“Now I drive everything around town and load them up with the forklift or pallet jack for the interstaters or unload them when they get in.

“I’m out there with the big boys – it’s so much fun.

I’m also a single mum and Hernes works around me and my son. It’s really family oriented and such a good company to work for.”

Riley said that while she was the first local female driver at Hernes, Haynes is among the first doing the interstate runs.

Haynes explained, “My mate was already working at Hernes and he would speak about the company all the time. He said there was a good opportunity to get into it. I thought I’d throw myself in and it’s been nothing but

Haynes’ role takes her near and far. She got this great shot at the Yelarbon silos in Queensland.

a positive experience. Everywhere I go to load up, everyone is always there to help.”

With both of these truckies enjoying life on the road, Haynes added that she’d love to see more women do the same. “I want girls to know that’s it’s not so bad on the road. I was scared to start with and it’s ended up being the best thing I’ve ever done.

You get to meet so many nice people. I’d love to see more women on the road,” she said.

And, her advice for anyone considering a career in trucking: “Just get in and do it.”

Both Haynes and Riley have also been nominated in the Driver of the Year category of the Women in Trucking Australia Ltd’s awards, which are being held to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8.

READ THE LATEST EDITION ONLINE NOW Keep up to date with the latest news and developments with THE TRUSTED VOICE OF THE TRANSPORT INDUSTRY

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At Hernes, Corrina Riley drives everything from a rigid to a B-double.

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