Big Rigs 9 June 2023

EDITOR

James Graham: 0478 546 462 james.graham@primecreative.com.au

REPORTERS

Danielle Gullaci danielle.gullaci@primecreative.com.au

Anjali Behl anjali.behl@primecreative.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER

Peter Hockings: 0410 334 371 peter.hockings@primecreative.com.au

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

MANAGER

Treena Heit: 0403 626 353 treena.heit@primecreative.com.au

CLIENT SUCCESS

Katharine Causer: 0423 055 787 katharine.causer@primecreative.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Truckin in the Topics/Spy on the Road:

Alf Wilson, 0408 009 301

David Vile and David Meredith.

Big Rigs National Road Transport

Newspaper is published by rime Creati e edia t is the largest circulated fortnightly truck publication in Australia with  copies per fortnight

*12 month average, publisher’s claim October 2022

Scott’s fleet assets up for sale on ‘Buy Now’ platform

THE Gordon Brothers Ritchie Bros. Alliance (GBRB Alliance) has been exclusively appointed to sell Scott’s Refrigerated Logistics remaining fleet assets.

A total of 663 units comprising of 245 prime movers, 317 refrigerated trailers, 38 rigid refrigerated trucks, 19 tautliner trailers, and support equipment – all located throughout Australia at Ritchie Bros. seven yards – will be sold through a ‘Buy Now’ sales process, to be conducted on Ritchie Bros. Marketplace-E.

“We are honoured to have been entrusted with the sale of Scott’s Refrigerated Logistics’ remaining assets. This presents a unique opportunity for participants in the refrigerated transport, freight, and logistics industries to acquire top-quality equipment immediately. The fleet includes specialised refrigerated trailers,

prime movers, and rigid trucks that are in high demand in the secondary market,” commented head of Gordon Brothers

Ritchie Bros. Alliance, Andrew Cotton.

“Leveraging our ‘Buy Now’ sales process, along with the

expertise of GBRB Alliance, we are confident in our ability to provide convenient access for interested buyers. All re-

maining assets are being sold online through Marketplace-E, Ritchie Bros.’ 24/7 equipment and machinery marketplace. Our team, in collaboration with the receivers and managers, is committed to ensuring a seamless sale process, and we look forward to facilitating successful transactions.”

To swiftly get Scott’s Refrigerated trucks back on the road, the GBRB Alliance says it will launch a targeted campaign aimed at generating significant interest among potential buyers and increasing visibility, using the ‘Buy Now’ sales process to enable immediate purchases.

“With a vast network of industry connections and the expertise to manage complex sales campaigns, we’re confident in our ability to fulfill buyers’ requirements,” said Cotton.

For more information on the sale or to register to bid, please visit ironplanet.com.au.

Melbourne tipper company hit with $9246 fine

NINETEEN tonnes of soil leaking from a moving tipper truck has cost a Lalor company a $9246 fine from EPA Victoria.

The environmental regulator fined Manrup Pty Ltd after

EPA officers found the spill had left soil for several kilometres along Bulla Road, Bulla, requiring the Department of Transport to conduct a 13hour clean-up.

The spill took place just

after 4am on February 26 as the truck carried the load of soil from a Westgate Tunnel Project (WGTP) depot at Yarraville to the receiving premises at Bulla.

EPA officers investigated

and fined the trucking company for unlawfully depositing more than 1000 litres of waste, an offence under the Environment Protection Act 2017.

Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the

Infringements Act 2006, the operator has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.

Manrup did not return a Big Rigs request for comment.

The Scott’s assets are located throughout Australia at Ritchie Bros.’ seven yards.

Truckies demand answers for $7m splurge

BY JAMES GRAHAM

ROD Hannifey’s phone has been ringing hot since Transport for NSW announced it was building a $7 million Heavy Vehicle Safety Station (HVSS) near Dubbo on the Golden Highway.

Much like they were on the Big Rigs Facebook page when the news broke, truckies were demanding to know why this is even necessary, and if so, why a weighbridge is costing so much.

“All I heard was blokes saying, ‘What the hell are they building, a 27-story mega-plaza or something?’, said a frustrated Hannifey, who has also been blindsided by the big spend.

“Second thing is, have they spoken to anyone in the industry about it?”

Adding to Hannifey’s exasperation is the fact there is already a set of pads just out of Dubbo on the eastbound side of the highway.

“Why wouldn’t you expand that site? If they’re not going to do that and put it on the other side of the road, what traffic is it designed to capture.

“If you’ve come out of Sydney, you’ve already come over a weighbridge anyway, and the blokes who are going to be working there are going to have to drive an hour each day just to get to and from the site.”

“I can’t understand why they’re putting it where they’re putting it, and I’d like to see how they can justify that amount of money.”

Once again, says Hannifey, it seems as if enforcement is taking priority over fixing the roads and giving drivers more options to rest.

He’s already seen several of his green reflector bays torn up to make way for passing lanes on the Newell Highway, and when he’s asked TfNSW the reason why they’re not replaced, he said he was told there wasn’t budget allocated.

“They can find the money to punish you, but not to help you,” said Hannifey, a full-time driver for the Dubbo-based Rod Pilon Transport and president of the National Road Freighters Association.

Hannifey said you only have to look at how many of his green reflector bays are on

the Golden Highway in comparison to TfNSW-built rest areas to see where the priorities lie.

“They did build four on the Golden Highway but two of them are close together and there is no shade, nothing but a set of tables and a bin. None of them have toilets.

“Again, when they built those, there was no consultation involved, and nothing has been done since, yet all of a sudden they have $7 million to build a weighbridge.”

TfNSW said the new heavy vehicle inspection station, located about seven kilometres east of Ballimore, between Dubbo and Dunedoo, will “facilitate compliance monitoring and enforcement of heavy vehicles on the Golden Highway, reducing heavy vehicle overloading, fatigue-related heavy vehicle crashes and the risk of non-compliant vehicles travelling to Dubbo.”

By deadline for this issue, TfNSW had not responded to Big Rigs questions about why the station was costing so much, what consultation they did with industry and why

they chose this particular site.

But we were told that TfNSW is no longer responsible for managing weighbridges across the state, so any questions about upgrading of existing weighbridges should be directed to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator.

In a media statement announcing the news of the Dubbo site, NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said Heavy Vehicle Safety Stations are an important part of Transport for NSW’s on-road enforcement program.

“There is a network of these heavy vehicle safety stations on major routes across the state which heavy vehicle inspectors use as a base to intercept and inspect heavy vehicles to identify whether any may be operating illegally or in an unsafe manner on NSW roads,” she said.

When finished the $7 million facility will utilise Intelligent Transport System (ITS) components including electronic speed signs, open/ closed signage and network facilities.

This new site has been

jointly funded, with the Australian Government committing $3.7 million and the NSW Government contributing $3.3 million. The funding comes under the $23.7 million Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program (HVSPP).

“What a load of BS,” wrote Ted Scarfe on our Facebook

page in response to the news.

“They have said they need to upgrade the Golden Highway before they put in another one of these revenue raising places as there are already two of them there now between Singleton and Dubbo.”

Added Jevan Hart: “How about fixing the roads and

Truckies’ advocate Rod Hannifey is frustrated by the lack of consultation with drivers on the $7 million project.

Call for dedicated freight ministers

BY JAMES GRAHAM

WA operator John Mitchell believes trucking is being shortchanged at a state and federal government level by ministers who are spread too thin to do their freight-related portfolios justice.

Mitchell, the CEO of busy third-generation business Mitchell’s Livestock Transport, is calling on all levels of government to create dedicated freight minister roles to focus solely on the industry’s woes before more operators are forced to shut up shop.

“I believe there’s a lot of frustration that we all face, and if you step back, and you look at our industry and what it does, we’re very isolated,” Mitchell said.

“Our representation is very good but structurally there’s a flaw there. Every time we have a minister, they’re a minister competing with a lot of other interests that have got more noise attached to them.

“Our industry just gets it done, but the likelihood of improvement and how to make the sector come out of where it is now is low because most peo-

ple I talk to around Australia in the freight sector say the same thing, we don’t have anything to look forward to.

“We’re looking forward to less drivers, more regulation…I think we’re doomed.”

Unless there is intervention at the top, Mitchell is adamant that good operators are going to find it harder to stay afloat.

“So we’ll have this constant infill of people from the bottom end up.

“We need great operators in Australia feeling good about their businesses, and our industry connected to a [dedicated] portfolio.”

Mitchell said that if you look at most portfolios on a federal level there are ministers with more dedicated roles, yet the trucking industry plays second fiddle.

“We’ve got a $50 billion industry inside a $1 trillion economy, so we’re 5 per cent of GDP, so that should just be enough,” said Mitchell, who stresses that he isn’t being critical of individual ministers, just the system in which they are forced to work under.

“Then the effect of having a minister would give us the

opportunity to be connected and someone thinking about the future for a change, having a strategic view on the health of the industry and the people in it.

“Currently, I don’t know how much percentage of time the federal and state ministers would spend actually thinking about road transport, and freight in particular, and that’s unconscionable that you’ve got someone with that level of responsibility who doesn’t have the means.

“They’ve got moments to think about what we think about over days, years and months.”

Mitchell said the driver shortage is the number one issue impacting the industry as a result of the government not

giving the freight industry the credence it deserves.

To plug the gap, he believes bringing in drivers from overseas would be a simple shortterm fix, but when he last looked at the skills list, there were 644 occupations on it, and truck driving wasn’t one of them.

“Pet groomer will get you in, but you can’t come in as an experienced high-grade truck driver into this country.”

“So, a transport freight minister would go, ‘Hey, I’ve got to fix that’. Then we’ve got to figure out ways to bring people into the industry.”

Mitchell said a minister could also focus on how the industry would move freight better and more efficiently, which would have a direct

benefit when it came to carbon emissions.

“When you look at the 5 per cent of GDP [that the freight industry represents] you can make a big difference to someone’s cost down the line.

“We’re a pivot for every business in Australia. If our industry starts leading the charge more, it all starts to concertina upwards.”

Mitchell is now calling for the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to act, and hopes the states follow suit.

“Then what we will have is a collegiate approach to some of these problems that we’re all facing with people connected to a person who has got 100 per cent focus on freight.”

Gary Mahon, CEO of the Queensland Trucking Associ-

ation, said that at a state level he believes the industry is given sufficient priority.

But more broadly, right across Australia, a lot more focus could be given to the supply chain.

“I don’t think it’s just a road freight issue, it’s shipping, the integration of our road system, and the lack of a genuine all-weather freight network,” Mahon said.

“Who is giving real authority to that at a national level?

Mahon said he’d encourage people to reflect on the National Interstate and Defense Highways Act of 1956, the brainchild of President Dwight D. Eisenhower who is credited with becoming one of the key energisers of the American economy, post-World War 2.

John Mitchell believes there is nothing for good operators to look forward to.

Federal Transport Minister Catherine King.

Mitchell’s Livestock Transport has been running for three generations but faces uncertain future.

The bill established an interstate national highway system in the US that transformed the way freight was moved from coast to coast.

“It was an enormous visionary undertaking by the US which brought about enormous benefits for their country, and we could take some lessons from that about the future of our country.”

Cam Dumesny, CEO of the Western Roads Federation, also agrees there’s a need for a dedicated federal freight minister.

“We still don’t have an effective freight strategy,” Dumesny said.

“We certainly don’t have one in Western Australia at a state level, it’s non-existent.”

Ministers’ many hats

To strengthen John Michell’s argument, here is the reakdown of freight related minister portfolios from each state and territory

NSW

John Graham inister for Roads inister for the Arts inister for usic and the Night time Economy inister for o s and Tourism

Jenny Aitchison Regional Transport

Dumesny believes that one of the best ways to curb inflation is to address transport inefficiencies.

“All those delay points in the freight system add costs. What we need is one federal minister responsible for freight across all the modes; road, rail, sea and air, because the policies need to align so they act as a symphony, not a cacophony.

“Too much of the policy position at the moment actually makes the system worse.”

A spokesperson for Catherine King, the federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, said the Albanese government understands the critical impor-

and Roads inister em er for aitland

VICTORIA

Jacinta Allan inister for Transport and nfrastructure inister for the Su ur an Rail oop inister for Commonwealth ames eli ery

Melissa Horne inister for Roads and Road Safety inister for Casino aming and i uor Regulation inister for ocal Government inister for orts and Freight em er for Williamstown

tance of freight to the whole economy.

“It makes sense that road freight matters should be considered alongside transport and infrastructure decisions given

WA

Rita Saffiotti inister for Transport lanning and orts

Paul Papalia inister for Road Safety inister for olice inister for efence ndustry inister for eterans ssues

QLD

Mark Bailey inister for Transport and ain Roads inister for igital Ser ices SA

Tom Koutsantonis inister for nfrastructure and Transport

SEATS

SYDNEY

510 Victoria Street, Wetherill Park NSW 2164

Ph. 02 9756 6199, email: isri@isri.com.au, www.isri.com.au

BRISBANE

3/120 Gardens Drive, Willawong QLD 4110

WA skills event a big success

WESTERN Australia’s first skills solution event to help bring new recruits into the industry has been labelled a huge success by the state’s peak trucking body.

how closely interrelated they are,” a spokesperson told Big Rigs. They also said that the Albanese government’s record to date illustrates its industry commitment.

inister for Energy and ining em er for West Torrens

TASMANIA

Michael Ferguson inister for nfrastructure and Transport eputy remier Treasurer inister for lanning NT

Eva Lawler inister for nfrastructure lanning and ogistics

Treasurer inister for Education inister for Territory Development

The Western Roads Federation-organised summit brought representatives from marginalised groups, funding sectors, training groups and industry employers under one roof to try and connect the dots.

“There’s more jobs over here than there are people left on the bench, so we’ve got to find ways of reaching new people to get them into the industry,” said WRF’s CEO Cam Dumesny.

“So, it was a connection exercise, and since then our people been flat out with following up with people who attended.”

Dumesny said the biggest takeaway for him was the disconnection that exists between job providers, marginalised cohorts and the trucking industry.

“There’re multiple funding programs through the government and groups of people over here that want work and there’s groups of employees over here that want people.

“It was connecting them together in a room for the first time, because that’s not really been done. We tend to have like a trade fair where people sit there and tout their wares. But no one’s ever sat them together in one room, almost like a speed dating agency.”

When it comes to recruitment, WRF is one of the most pro-active industry associations in Australia.

Its driver training program with experienced mentors has already placed 300 new recruits. “They’re only trained up to HR but they’re trained with every qualification they need.

“It’s giving us a strongly-trained core base of people that we’re just going to move through the industry over time.

“It’s not going to solve the world’s problems overnight, but it’s that slow change that we need.”

Dumesny, however, says recruitment isn’t helped by industry image problems.

“School teachers are telling kids there is no future in transport because it’s going to be automated.

“There are also public perceptions of our industry that just don’t correlate with reality.”

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Melissa Horne. John Graham.

THERE’S MORE JOBS OVER HERE THAN THERE ARE PEOPLE LEFT ON THE BENCH, SO WE’VE GOT TO FIND WAYS OF REACHING NEW PEOPLE TO GET THEM INTO THE INDUSTRY.”

CAM DUMESNY

Quad axle trailer weights lifted for PBS combinations

QUEENSLAND’S peak trucking body says the decision to lift quad axle trailer weights from 21 tonnes to 24 tonnes on approved Performance Based Standards (PBS) combinations with super single tyres is a win for the industry.

But the Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) is also quick to add that it wants to see more progress on access issues for high productivity vehicles.

“There was a pretty strong argument for 27 tonnes to be granted but it’s a progressive movement to do super singles up to 24 [tonnes],” said QTA CEO Gary Mahon.

“I think the important message here is that we’ve got the low carbon challenge coming,

New

rules

HIGH Productivity Freight

Vehicles (HPFV) operating in Victoria will soon be required to use a Smart OnBoard Mass (OBM) system.

From June 30, lower Gross Combination Masses (GCM) will apply to all relevant vehicles without a

and there’s serious consideration being given to the weights over axles for electric vehicles, battery electric in particular.

“So, when you look at the implications for payloads, and the number of trucks that might be required to undertake the ever-increasing freight task, we’ve got to balance that out with trailer weights that can give us efficient journeys.”

Mahon also notes that it’s essential to remember that the last changes to general axle weights in Australia was in 1991.

“When we moved up to the 6-, 16.5-, and 20-tonnes on the tris for general access. So, when you look at a move like this, it is very significant that we’ve been able to achieve this type

of change in an environment of stalled productivity for nearly 30 years.”

Mahon said the latest axle weight change by the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) reinforces the message that the industry needs to make the road freight system as efficient as it possibly can, given Australia’s increasing dependency on road freight.

“With the introduction of low carbon for some time yet, we’re going to have decreasing payloads on the actual truck or prime mover so we’re going to have to balance that out with trailer weights.”

Meanwhile, Mahon said operators running fridge applications and Pantechs are the mostly winners from the

increase to 24 tonnes for PBS combos with quad axle trailers fitted with super single tyres that have a minimum 375mm section width.

“It’s important to also remember that there’s also a safety improvement with super singles because the wheelbase widens a little.”

He said the next productivity movement he’d like to see is for the new HVNL to allow for a general access increase from 19m to 20m to allow for a range of productivity opportunities. “We would argue that a comprehensive review needs to be considered for axle weights more generally, to ensure that we don’t go backwards, in terms of efficient truck trips.” Transport operators may now apply for this new mass limit for existing, or new PBS combinations through the NHVR portal. “Please be advised, the Truck Industry Council also has a research project underway to review heavy vehicle tyre pavement impacts from a national perspective,” TMR added.

on the way for Smart OBM use in Victoria

Smart OBM, as per below:

• 68.5 tonnes for a multi-combination (e.g. A-doubles, B-triples, etc)

• 46.0 tonnes for a single articulated combination (e.g. a quad-axle semi-trailer or spread axle combination)

WHY MOULDED PLUGS?

The Victorian Government had extended the original transition period for the introduction of smart onboard mass (OBM) monitoring for certain Performance Based Standards vehicles.

The deadline follows over two years of extensions and

industry consultation to enable operators of eligible vehicles time to adjust to the new requirements.

As part of the changes, operators of eligible combinations are also required to choose a telematics system to complement the Smart OBM.

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) says operators without a Smart OBM that exceed these masses risk receiving “a breach for a severe mass offence”, which “could result in grounding the vehicle or directing the vehicle to a safe area”.

For more information, please visit vicroads.vic.gov. au and search for Smart OBM.

Or, you can learn more about your requirements and enrolment on the Intelligent Access Program (IAP) page at nhvr.gov.au.

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4 DIFFERENT WIRING OPTIONS TO SUIT:

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 Adapting from Heavy Duty plug to AUS Round Plug (SAE/DIN)

 Adapting from NEW AS 4735 wiring to AUS Round Plug (AS/DIN).

Increased axle loads are now in play in Queensland for PBS quad axle trailers fitted with super single tyres.

Fatigue Management Solutions

NEW 1kW 24V Refrigerated System

Fuel saving - e driver doesn’t need to use the truck to let the parking cooler work because VIESA Kompressor III works only with truck batteries

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BTS 2023 delivered

JAMES GRAHAM

WHAT an incredible event the Brisbane Truck Show turned out to be.

Hats off to Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) for delivering an absolute blinder. By day three on Saturday, you couldn’t move in the place there were that many fans clambouring for an up-close look at the latest big rigs, and/or the southern hemisphere’s biggest display of electric trucks.

What struck me though, as I ducked and weaved around the hordes in the main halls - a record 40,000 tickets were sold over the four days - was why does the industry struggle to attract newcomers when so many people have turned up to be part of its biggest showcase?

I put that very question to HVIA for a story in this issue, but was told we’d jumped the gun by a couple of months on the workforce development front, but there are most definitley plans afoot to leverage the unprecedented interest.

We’ll keep you posted.

EDITOR

Exemption notice ends

Following major flooding across key freight routes earlier in the year, an exemption notice gave road trains transporting freight temporary access through the NT and on to north WA.

World’s biggest fuel road train impresses IN BRIEF

It provided access from Western Australia, via South Australia, to the north, allowing increased freight capacity on alternative road networks during a period when regular rail and road freight routes were cut by natural disaster. The temporary crossing was only to be used during the dry season, and therefore will not be renewed. It will expire at midnight on June 30, 2023.

ATA’s new CEO Executive director of the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA), Mathew Munro, has been announced as the new CEO of the Australian Trucking Association (ATA). He will begin the new role on July 3, 2023, following the retirement of current CEO, Michael Deegan.

ATA chair, David Smith, says he’s looking forward to a smooth transition. “Mat will bring so much experience to the role and will build on Michael’s great work. I look forward to joining forces with Mat as we tackle industry issues together.”

Correction

The article ‘Husband and wife team’s two-up dream journey’, published on page 24 of the May 26, 2023, edition of Big Rigs featured an incorrect statement linking eating on the road with increasing the subject’s risk of catching hepatitis A & B, due to her Crohn’s disease. To read the full corrected version of the story, visit bigrigs.com.au.

WITH a whopping diesel capacity of 158,000 litres, this new PBS quad road train is the world’s biggest fuel road train combination to date.

Produced by Tieman Tankers, the 56.5m long combination features the manufacturer’s patent pending turntable connection that ensures all Performance-Based Standards (PBS) measures, including rearward amplification at speed, are met.

With a gross combination mass (GCM) of 186.5 tonnes the quad train offers increased productivity for Recharge Petroleum, the BP fuel distributor in the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia.

Recharge Petroleum transport manager John Campbell says the business is achieving an extra 15 per cent payload with 157KL of diesel, which is a significant benefit for long distance.

“The new combination carries more capacity and that’s one of the key reasons why we got it,” Campbell says. “The fact that its payload is a lot greater means we can slash trips required and therefore optimise our efficiencies when travelling from Darwin to our depot in Alice Springs.”

The combination was built within the PBS limits of up to 60m, and travels at 90km/h with load and 100km/h when empty. The exclusive alumin-

ium extrusion design of the tanker prevents flex and guarantee structural integrity.

Roll coupling all four tankers eliminates the risk of the

rear tanker rolling over due to the special designed horizontal drawbar with skid plate and king pin.

At the helm is a T909 Kenworth with a powerful 600Hp X15 Cummins engine.

The Northern Territory Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics was instrumental in allowing the innovative combination to hit the roads.

All key performance factors were evaluated by both independent PBS simulations prior to build as well as the physical on road trials when loaded.

“They did an on-road trial with it which included following the combination down the road for 100 kilometres, and they were fairly impressed with the unit,” Campbell says.

“They said it performs as well as any other smaller

shorter-length quad. They still monitor it on a regular basis, and we provide monthly reports on how it’s going performance-wise as well.”

Melbourne-based Tieman has been manufacturing aluminium, dry bulk and stainless steel tankers since 1950s. The company specialises in building tankers that offer light tare weight that offers greater payload for improved efficiency.

“Ticking all boxes in safety and performance allows Tieman to continue the evolution of our new tanker designs across Australia in the fuel, milk, food grade, chemical, bitumen and dry bulk tanker markets,” says Tieman director Colin Tieman.

“Our end-to-end PBS support is a point of difference that allows our customers to future-proof every new tanker investment.”

Fuso and Hino announce plans for merger

FOUR manufacturers have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that would see the merger of truck manufacturers Fuso and Hino, with aims for the transaction to be finalised by the end of 2024.

Daimler Truck Holding AG, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), Hino Motors Ltd and Toyota Motor Corporation announced their plans to merge Fuso and Hino on equal footing, “to accelerate

the development of advanced technologies”.

Fuso and Hino plan to collaborate in the areas of commercial vehicle development, procurement and production; as they work to build a globally competitive Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer.

Both Daimler Truck and Toyota will invest equally in the holding company of the merged Fuso and Hino. They will collaborate on the devel-

opment of hydrogen and other CASE technologies to support the competitiveness of the new company.

The four companies intend to promote the use of environmentally friendly vehicles and increase the value of mobility in the world’s social systems.

Daimler Truck Australia Pacific President and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, commented on the announcement, “This is exciting news for Fuso and Hino

both globally and in Australia. We look forward to sharing more details about this closer to the planned agreement conclusion at the end of next year.”

Richard Emery, vice president – brand & franchise development at Hino Australia, added, “This is an exciting announcement for both Hino and Fuso at a local level, and also internationally. We will be in a position to share more information about this towards the end

of next year.”

Details on the scope and nature of the collaboration including the name, location, shareholding ratio and corporate structure of the new holding company will be decided over the course of the next 18 months. Signing of definitive agreements is expected to take place in the first quarter of 2024, with the aim of completing the transaction by the end of 2024.

The innovative ‘quad train’ is delivering impressive payloads.

The quad train offers increased productivity for Recharge Petroleum.

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Volvo goes green with heavy-duty EVs on show

BY GRAHAM HARSANT

THE Brisbane Truck Show has come and gone to great fanfare. Record participants. Record attendance. And a record number of EVs - electric vehicles to the 1 per cent who may not know the acronym.

Included amongst the manufacturers to display their electrical hardware was Volvo, currently (no pun intended) the number one seller of heavy-duty trucks in Australia.

Volvo decided to get ahead of the hordes of truck lovers expected to attend the BTS by inviting journalists to attend the ‘Volvo Sustainability Summit’ at their Wacol, Qld manufacturing base, where they displayed their Electric FH 6x4 prime mover, along with the Electric FE 6x4 rigid.

Underlining the importance of Volvo’s entry into the EV market in Australia was the presence of Roger Alm, president of Volvo Trucks and Per-Erik Lindstrom, senior vice president, Volvo Trucks International, joining Volvo Australia’s president, Martin Merrick and VP Gary Bone on stage.

While a number of similarsized EVs were on display at the show, only Volvo has them ready for sale here in Oz right now. As Roger Alm pointed out, Volvo decided early on that electrification was the best way to reach zero emissions for both their customers and to aid society in general.

In 2019 the company started line production of their first electric trucks for distribution and handling. In September last year they commenced production of heavy-duty EV trucks. That Australia has been targeted so early as a market for heavy duty EVs is a reflection of the importance in which Volvo regard this sphere of the world.

Today, Volvo have six EV trucks in production, ranging from city distribution to regular haul and construction transport.

With by far the widest offering of EV trucks, the company’s market share in Europe and North America is close to 50 per cent. The market share compared to diesel is obviously still small but is growing quickly. To date, Volvo has sold more than 5000 EVs into 40 countries.

“To stop global warming, we as an industry need to pursue fossil free transport and we need to do it now,” Roger Alm said.

“Our ambition is that 50 per cent of our global product will be Battery-Electric (BEV) or Fuel Cell Electric by 2030. By 2040 our aim is that all trucks we sell will be net zero emission.”

Per-Erik Lindstrom continued the theme by first

pointing to the development and increased efficiency of the company’s internal combustion engines (ICE). Today, their diesel motors have roughly 50 per cent thermal efficiency, which rival Formula One engines. Those diesel engines can also run on HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil, also referred to as Renewable Diesel), LPG and LPG/D - a mixture of LPG and diesel. All these systems reduce emissions.

To add to the mix, and coming in the not-too-distant future is fuel cell technology. Powered by hydrogen, the fuel cells in turn provide power to batteries which will drive these trucks.

Herein lies the probable solution for Australia’s long distances as these trucks are expected to have a range of 1000km and can be refuelled in around the same time as current diesel engines.

If you are sceptical about EV trucks it is worth noting that Volvo have 1000 customers who have elected to buy EVs to deliver goods to their clients. To support them Volvo has taken a holistic approach including charging, route planning and battery optimisation to give them peace of mind.

Martin Merrick referred to over 50 years of manufacturing Volvo trucks in this country and the fact that they carry the ‘Australian Made’ certification.

“We are very proud of our heritage,” Merrick said. “We started building trucks in 1972 and just delivered the 75,000th truck built here at Wacol. It is our intention to build these electric trucks here in Australia by 2027, and they are perfectly suited for the 35 per cent of the overall freight task that takes place in urban areas.”

Remanufacture, reuse, recycle, refurbish. These terms are high on the Volvo vocabulary list. The two electric trucks on display at the presentation were 93 per cent and 95 per cent recyclable.

Volvo is disappointed that in the government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy, there is very little comment on heavy duty transport.

By way of illustration, Martin pointed out that every ton of lithium has the potential to create 200 batteries. “If used for battery cars that would eliminate 500 tonnes of CO2 emissions every year. If that same material was used by heavy duty vehicles it would be 900 tonnes eliminated, so it is clear where we should focus our strategy.”

The Volvo electric range comprises the smaller FL and FE capable of carrying 26 tonnes with a range of 300km. The heavy-duty FM,

FMX and FH are capable of hauling 44 tonnes – also with a 300km range. All vehicles are currently available in Australia except the FMX, which is available to order and to bring into the country. right now. That truck, as with the FM and FH, will be available as a prime mover.

Gary Bone discussed the importance of driver training. “A light right foot and coasting can make a huge difference in the range of an electric truck,” he said. “Similarly, just by using the right driving techniques with an internal combustion diesel today, a gentle right foot can deliver between 6-30 per cent fuel efficiency gains.

“We see driver training as the single most important thing that we can do to improve the fuel economy and therefore the CO2 output of our current diesel fleet, along with using the right truck specification for the job at hand.”

In wrapping up the presentation, Roger Alm displays a picture of a little girl with the caption, ‘Caring for Future Generations’.

“This little girl, she doesn’t care about range, charging, infrastructure or technology. She wants to have something different,” Alm said.

“She wants to have belief in the world in which she is living and we need to support the next generation to give them that.

“To do that we need to work together – suppliers, OEMs, elected people, decision-makers and also customers to make the transformation, because we have a responsibility.

“We need to give the future generation a world that they would like to live in and we should make that happen. So, please join us and give the next generation a better world.”

[L-R] Roger Alm, Martin Merrick, Gary Bone and Per-Erik Lindstrom show off the new FH to industry media.

Plenty of electrical grunt, but don’t play with the orange wiring.

The Electric FE rigid is one of six EVs that Volvo now has in production.

smart FH interior.

The Wacol manufacturer gives industry media a close-up look at its next generation offerings leading the charge to reach net zero emissions.

5 - 2019 to 2016 Graystar

2017 Kenworth T610 6x4

2 - 2018 Gippsland Body Builders

2013 Drake 2 Rows of 8 Hydraulic Widening SwingWing & 2015 Drake 2 Rows of 8 Hydraulic Widening

Unused 2023 Kenworth W900SAR Legend, 2021-2014 Kenworth T909, 2017 Kenworth T900 Legend, 2015 Kenworth T409SAR, 2006 Western Star 4900FX Stratosphere & 3 - Late Model Graystar, 4 - Late Model FTE

Gold Coast fleet makes its final run

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

SECOND generation truckie and transport operator Karl Thomas, 44, got the trucking bug early on, following in the footsteps of his father.

“Dad had two trucks, and funnily enough, it was driver troubles that got me into this industry in the first place,” said Thomas. “He had a driver blow up both his trucks in the space of a week, so we picked them up and did rebuilds on them that, in hindsight, we probably shouldn’t have done. That got us going again. We actually saw one of those trucks, a Kenworth T600, hauling loads around Brisbane years later and Dad said it was the best truck he had ever owned.

“Dad had trucks from before he was married and before

us kids came along. He started in the early 70s in Perth, during the mining boom, and that’s where he met Mum.”

Thomas got his truck licence when he was 19 and after a few years of driving for his father, the T600 was traded in so he could get a truck of his own.

That was in 2002 and was a K100E, which he still has today. “A mate bought it off me when I moved to Perth, then I bought it back off him,” Thomas said.

And with that Karl’s Transport was born.

During the years that ensued, he sub-contracted to numerous companies – they included Sneath’s Transport, Harris Refrigerated, Wickham Freight Lines and HPS Transport.

It was some years before

Thomas bought his second truck, eventually growing his fleet to 14 trucks and 20 trailers, carrying mainly fresh produce to the major markets, along with servicing contracts to cart fresh fish and tyres.

The Karl’s Transport depot

is located in Alberton on the Gold Coast, with five of his trucks based in Adelaide. The trucks ran across Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.

Thomas is originally from Murray Bridge, SA, and that

was where he started in trucks before moving to Perth and eventually Queensland. “I caught the mining boom in Perth, which is what really put me on my feet. In a few years I was able to pay off a new Kenworth and a house.

From there, I moved to North Queensland and began transporting bananas for Blenners Transport.”

Unfortunately though, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. With bananas being his main workload, Cyclone Yasi, which hit

Karl Thomas says the time was right to close his business.

The fleet of 14 trucks ran across Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.

Struggling to find enough drivers, this transport operator often had to fill in the gaps himself –but as the doors close, he’s looking forward to a change of pace.

in early 2011, delivered a devastating blow. “I had just bought my own trailers to do the bananas – and then there was a year of no bananas. It was HPS Transport that helped me through that rough period. They treated me like family and kept the work coming in. From 2012 is when I was really able to start growing the business,”

Thomas explained.

Karl’s Transport was going from strength to strength, but then when Covid hit, so too did the struggles to find good drivers, which ultimately led to Thomas’ decision to close up and sell off his fleet.

“In the end, that was the real reason I’ve decided to pack up. I couldn’t get enough drivers, especially in Adelaide. I had a young bloke over there work for me for a day and he did really well. I flew over to interview him for the job and he didn’t even turn up,” he explained.

“I need to have a fair bit of trust in my Adelaide drivers because I don’t have a depot there so the drivers take the trucks home. I got to a point where I was flying to Adelaide for two weeks out of four to fill in the gaps, and then I was coming back here running trailers in from Gatton overnight.

“I was pretty worn out with what I was doing, and my family were pretty keen for me to get out too but it’s a hard thing to do. I’ve been re-

ally happy with the guys I do have, I had such a great crew but just didn’t have enough of them in the end. I was filling in the gaps myself while trying to run the business and do all the admin and paperwork too.”

When asked abouts his thoughts around fixing the driver shortage issue, he said, “If there was a solution I’d still be operating. I think Australia is in trouble. This is where it’s ended up.”

Thomas says he had been contemplating closing the business for the past 18 months and felt that now the timing was right. “I was watching second hand truck prices, which are doing really well at the moment. I felt like I could work for another five years but then if second hand prices go down, I wouldn’t be any better off.”

All but one of the Karl’s Transport trucks will be up

for grabs at an auction hosted by Ritchie Bros., with Thomas holding on to his 1997 Kenworth T601.

An interesting truck that’ll go under the hammer is a brand new and unused 2023 Kenworth W900SAR Legend, which he purchased when the limited edition model went on sale for one day only nearly two years ago, in July 2021. “That was supposed to be here 12 months ago, so it’s 12 months late. It’ll be the shortest time I’ve ever owned a truck. I picked it up on May 13 and had it listed in the Ritchie Bros. auction on

May 16,” said Thomas.

Looking to the future, he revealed it won’t be long before he’s back behind the wheel, “I plan to do some sub-contracting but want to have a bit of a holiday first. I won’t be working as hard as I was, I’ll work when I want to. Driving trucks is something I’ve always loved doing, so I’m looking forward to being able to do it without the pressure – and turning the phone off when I go to bed will be a nice change.

“In the truck, you can hit the open road, turn the music up, and you get to see

Australia for better or worse, through floods and through drought. You can also surround yourself with the right people – and there are a lot of good people in this industry.”

For now, however, Thomas is looking froward to an upcoming motorbike tour he’s booked, that’ll travel between Alice Springs and Birdsville, an outback town on the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert in Queensland. “That’ll fill in the gaps of places I haven’t seen while driving a truck. I also have a 1979 Toyota Landcruiser that Dad gave me, so I’ll do

some camping and catch up with family too. My brother and sisters have kids who I’ve barely seen because I’ve been so busy running this business. I’m looking forward to being able to spend some time with them.”

The Karl’s Transport fleet will be auctioned through Ritchie Bros. National Unreserved EOFY Auction on June 21-22. The auction event will be held exclusively online and interested buyers are urged to register to bid via the website, with bidding opening on Saturday, June 17.

The depot was based on the Gold Coast, with some of the trucks also based in Adelaide.

I GOT TO A POINT WHERE I WAS FLYING TO ADELAIDE FOR TWO WEEKS OUT OF FOUR TO FILL IN THE GAPS, AND THEN I WAS COMING BACK HERE RUNNING TRAILERS IN FROM GATTON OVERNIGHT. I WAS PRETTY WORN OUT.” KARL THOMAS

The company’s primary operations revolved around transporting produce to the markets.

Purple pride takes centre stage

BY JAMES GRAHAM

HUMBLE Kingaroy operator Simon McMahon never dreamed he’d have a truck good enough to display at the Brisbane Truck Show.

Add in the fact that the Kenworth T909 that he and wife Jamie own was the talk of the show at the Robuk Engineering stand, you can understand why the McMahons still can’t wipe the smiles from their faces at S&J McMahon Transport.

“I think I was like a bit of a kid to be honest on the Thursday night before we went down, I don’t think I slept, I was just a bit too excited,” Simon says.

“It actually blew me away how much it is circulating everywhere to be honest. James [Yerbury] from Robuk was even saying he had German manufacturers ringing him up because they were getting pictures of it over there.”

While the Germans marvelled at the specs of Robuk’s A-double trailers, for rugby league fans, it was all about the impressive array of Melbourne Storm insignia and team stars deftly illustrated by Jeff Barry from Cyclone Airbrush and

Graphics on a canvas of the Storm’s signature purple.

On the back of the cab there is a recreation of the iconic 2017 premiership winning celebration picture of Queensland’s Storm heroes, Cooper Cronk (The Perfectionist), Cameron Smith (The GOAT), and Billy Slater (The Kid), aka ‘The Big 3’.

Nearby on the front deck pate, legendary Storm coach, Craig Bellamy, dubbed ‘The Master’ by the McMahons, keeps a watchful eye, and the names of the couple’s other favourite Storm players are also written on the sides.

There’s even a scrawl of the Storm’s theme song on the truck, and to crown it all off, a Melbourne Storm man ornament on the top of the bonnet, thanks to Blaze Industries.

No strangers to theming their trucks, Simon and Jamie have always toyed with the idea of a tribute to their favourite NRL team.

The whole family are mad keen supporters, Simon, 33, for more than 20 years, Jamie, 33, for the 16 years they’ve been together and more recently their daughters Paige, 9, and Quinn,

6, also “live and breathe them”.

With Robuk keen to display the trailer on their show stand, the McMahon’s went into overdrive to make it a “one of a kind”, burying themselves in planning the final look for the last two years.

“We spent a lot of time researching what we wanted and going back forward with Jeff Barry,” says Simon, who capped off the unforgettable trip by watching the Storm beat the Dolphins 24-16 from Robuk’s corporate box at Suncorp.

“We wanted the Big 3 just because it’s a very iconic photo for the Melbourne Storm, and I wanted Craig Bellamy, he’s a

good coach.”

When it came to side walls and side of the cab we just wanted that navy stripe with the lightning, that gold and silver stripe around it with the players names airbrushed.

“The Storm man on the sides of the bunk and trailers is one of the old Storm symbols but we used the new Storm colours because we wanted something a bit more 3D to pop out.

“The Jahrome Hughes headgear with the lightning on it we’d take screenshots of that because that’s how we wanted the lightning done.

“Over 18 months, to two years, anything Storm-orientated we saved into a file in the system and went slowly from there.”

The only hurdle was the later than expected arrival of the T909 to undergo its transformation, with the McMahons only receiving the cab chassis in the second week of March.

“So, we only had eight weeks to get it ready for the truck show. Blaze Industries who do all my stainless and lights and Cyclone were working seven days a week, sometimes until 1am in the morning to get it done.

“They put a very big effort in to get to where it was. The day before it went in the show, they were flat out ripping all the plastic off the stainless and detailing it.”

The McMahons are hopeful that in the off-season a few of the Storm players will drop by for a few pics and to sign the truck. The Robuk team had tried to arrange with Bellamy’s management to get his signature on the truck, but his travel and game schedule made it not possible.

By the time you read this it will be business as usual, however, for the show-stopping 909, running grain and fertiliser from NSW and Queensland into the Brisbane port with long-time McMahons driver Danny Ryan behind the wheel.

“He is a Cowboys supporter but I’m slowly converting him.”

The McMahons have 11 full-time drivers, five more staff in the office, including Simon and Jamie.

There’re a tight-knit, loyal crew with open communication encouraged by the McMahons whose last themed truck was to raise awareness of men’s mental health.

“Obviously sitting in a truck five days a week away from home four or five nights a week does take its toll on them, so I’ve always been pretty approachable with that,” says Simon, who is open about his own struggles with mental health.

“It’s really opened it up, and a few people have sort of looked at the fact I run a business and thought, you suffer some stuff as well; it puts a bit

of positivity on it.

“When I first had issues with it, I was pretty embarrassed to be honest, but I guess now I’m the opposite.

“My motto is, if I save one person then I’m happy.”

As for the next themebased truck, Simon says he’s still working on a couple of ideas for the some new Kenworths arriving in the next 12 months, some of which are fleet additions and others updates.

“We’ve got one nine oh coming with a 60-inch bunk on it that’s black.

“My wife wanted a black truck, so she’s got some ideas coming up for a paint job.

“Whatever we do, I’ll have to do something pretty bloody good to top the Storm one.”

Simon and Jamie McMahon spent two years planning the Storm truck.

The McMahon’s bright blue T909 also drew lavish praise for a message close to the couple’s heart.

Jeff Barry from Cyclone Airbrush and Graphics did a magnificent job bringing the McMahon’s league heroes to life.

The T909 Storm truck was a fan favourite on the Robuk stand.

A tribute truck to an NRL powerhouse turned out to be one of the stars of the show in Brisbane.

Victorian artist helps to keep a special skill alive

Although there’s no Kenworth dealerships in Bendigo, the regional city gets a constant flow of trucks coming off the Kenworth line weekly.

“Between the trucks that come to us straight off the line, and Steve at TransAir who fit sleeper cab air conditioners, a lot of Bendigonians would be seeing Kenworth trucks coming into town with trade plates, no bull bars and no stainless work fitted. We essentially do all our work on them where they then head back to the dealer to arrange the rest of the fit out,” Oswald said.

“Depending on what our job entails for each truck, a

full hand painted line and scroll can take up to two days, and if there are airbrushed murals or cab lines that need to be painted, then sometimes a truck’s work can take up to a week.”

Meanwhile, Jongebloed is working to expand his business by turning YBI-FX into a truck stop for customers. “We’re now starting to expand the services into apparel and merchandise for our customers so that when the truck is ready to hit the road, so are their T-shirts, caps and hoodies. All that adds more to the experience of just painting a truck and sending it on its way.”

BY ANJALI BEHL

BENDIGO-BASED YBI-FX is one of the few remaining businesses in Australia that are continuing to pursue a ‘lost trade’ of the transport industry – traditional hand-painted truck art.

Haiden Oswald, who goes by his nicknames ‘H’ or ‘Oz’, is one such artist keeping this skill alive and kicking.

He had already built a reputation in the industry working with a number of truck owners when he joined the YBI-FX team in 2020 as the truck and fleet artist.

Drew Jongebloed, creative director of YBI-FX, who started the business in 2004, providing fleet signage and graphic design services to some of Australia’s biggest automotive, industrial and motorsport brands, is very proud of Oswald’s work and refers to him

as the “FX-Truck Art component of YBI-FX”.

“I was familiar with Haiden at the time when YBI was founded, as his name had popped up for airbrushing awards while he started his apprenticeship under Darryl Maud at TransArt,” Jongebloed said.

“I expected our paths would cross down the track given the similarities of the industries in which we work.

“In 2020, we had some opportunities to develop the business so I got in contact with Haiden to see where he was at. He had worked for a couple of different sign shops in Bendigo and was operating Fleet FX on the weekends.

“To me I thought that was the wrong way around with his skillset. He had the passion for trucks and art, was a creative thinker, and we knew we could give him the infra-

structure and a blank canvas to push the truck work in the direction he wanted and to its full potential, it would be successful.

“YBI has been supplying advertising, digital marketing and TV work for clients in the automotive and big wheel industry and this seemed like an obvious extension to our involvement in the industry,” he added.

Despite the changes in the trucking landscape over the years, Oswald wanted to keep this waning art alive through his work.

“During the early years of my apprenticeship at TransArt, we were painting some of the coolest custom trucks around,” Oswald says.

“Back then using traditional brush line and scroll and incorporating airbrushing. The industry has changed, but the traditional hand painted skill

is something I never wanted to let go of.

“I always had hopes of getting it to the next level in terms of it being a fully operational business. I wanted more than just to paint trucks for customers though. It was about creating an environment for owner drivers, or the sales guys to come to us and be in a creative space, relax and just talk about what they want.”

Oswald’s name within the industry has seen him work with generations of truck owners. “We will get guys come in with photos of their dad’s trucks, or their grandfather’s trucks and want lines and scrolls based off those.

“There is a real passion in the industry for keeping new trucks ‘old school’ and that’s one aspect that I love about the conversations we have with our customers.”

Queensland company unveils Indigenous-themed truck

CAIRNS-BASED trucking company Swiss Line Transport is all revved up to celebrate NAIDOC Week (July 2-9) with one of its trucks wrapped in Indigenous-themed artwork.

The project was carried out by Western Truck Group

in collaboration with Volvo Trucks Australia.

The artwork, which was designed by Queenslandbased Indigenous artist Jacob Sarra, symbolises Volvo Group Australia’s journey as part of the reconciliation movement.

Andre Voegeli, owner of

Swiss Line, is passionate about advocating for his local Indigenous community and was thrilled to have been one of the only three Volvo customers in Australia involved in this project.

The new FH16 Volvo will join Swiss Line’s fleet doing

transport runs up and down the Queensland coast.

“From the entire Western Truck Group and Volvo Group Australia teams, we congratulate Andre on his new one-of-a-kind truck – we know it will be a stand out on the roads for many years to

come,” said Joe White, Western Truck Group’s dealer principal.

“We are very proud to have collaborated with Western Truck Group and Swiss Line Transport in wrapping their latest FH16 in this beautiful artwork by Jacob Sarra,” Vol-

vo Trucks Australia’s regional commercial manager Anthony Raisch stated.

“Thank you, Andre, for the work you do with your local Indigenous community.”

The truck was also on display at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.

Haiden Oswald had the opportunity to work on many custom trucks during his apprenticeship with TransArt.

Oswald using a truck artists’ ‘mahl stick’ to execute a rear wall feature scroll.

Nearly 18 years’ experience has given Oswald the opportunity to use many different styles of traditional and feature scrolls.

(L-R) WTG sales rep Tony Le-Galloudec, Swiss Line owner Andre Voegeli, WTG RGM North Peter Dodge, Volvo Trucks Australia RCM Anthony Raisch. The new FH16 will join Swiss Line’s Cairns-based fleet.

Industry out in droves in support of charity convoy

BY ALF WILSON

A RECORD 245 trucks and 85 motorbikes participated in the Power 100 Townsville Convoy for the Cure on Sunday, May 28. Thousands lined the streets along their route to wave and cheer them on. In return, the truckies honked their horns to acknowledge the overwhelming support of the Townsville community.

The lead truck was State Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper’s community truck, which raised $5261.98. Large fleet winner was Nortrans Townsville with $11,235.80 raised. DF & DL Drain Transport Pty Ltd transport raised $7823.90. Small fleet winner was Townsville Mini Loads with $3635.54 legends, whilst Ellsley Metal Recycling Metal Recycling also did well with $1996.10.

Trucks and bikes gathered at the marshalling area along Brad Webb Drive and adjacent streets in the Bohle suburb from 8am. They travelled a total of 19km during the convoy, which was the largest event in the North Queensland capital that day. It was estimated that the convoy was at least 5km long.

Big Rigs was there and spoke to numerous drivers, their family members, mates and supporters. Convoy co-ordinator Todd Martin, who has been involved in the event since 2008, said he was overwhelmed by the response.

“It is just great the way the community has supported this for such a good cause,” Martin said.

Eleni Millios-Hullick, CEO of The Cure Stars Now,

echoed those comments and was run off her feet organising the positions of the trucks.

Matt Caspanello was driving a Kenworth 108 for Drain Transport and was with his son Nate, aged seven, and daughter Amaya, 13. “This is my first convoy and it is great,” Caspanello said.

Three other Drain Transport drivers Aaron Sonter, Callum McMahon and Chris Pearce were looking forward to the convoy.

Rod Jackie from Ellsley Metal Recycling based in Ayr, 88km from Townsville, was there with partner Rose and were both happy to be

involved in such a wonderful cause.

Rojo Civil had numerous trucks involved and owner Jarred Roggero was there with drivers Tim Miller, his partner Krystle Miller and their children Ruby, 11, and Jasper, 3.

Power company Ergon Energy has lots of trucks of vari-

ous sizes and makes, and employee Kate Austin was there to support the drivers.

Carl Waldeck, who works for Pattel’s Heavy Haulage, was there with son Mason, aged three. “This will be my third convoy,” Waldeck said.

At 9am sharp, the police escorts and trucks left Brad Webb Drive and turned left into Ingham Road and headed across Blakey’s Crossing. Radio station Power FM, which was a sponsor, provided live on-air crosses to inform spectators where the trucks were at. At one stage there were so many trucks moving that police allowed waiting traffic to travel along Ingham Road amongst the convoy.

The convoy turned right into Duckworth Street, and later cruised along Dalrymple Road, Thuringowa Drive and then on Riverway Drive, where thousands lined the roadside. They were on seats, watching from footpaths and the back of 4WD vehicles, on verandahs, and even on the trailers of trucks. I ended up in the convoy and saw just how many people were supporting the event. The convoy took about 90 minutes to reach an area the near the Ross River Dam where there was a ‘Family Fun Day’.

Thousands were there and many trucks parked nearby as people enjoyed a feed, cold drink and entertainment and genuine goodwill amongst drivers from many companies. One of the highlights there was a Kids Convoy Race, in

which youngsters on small bikes raced along an obstacle course and around witches’ hats. When they reached the finishing line, they received a high five from the police officers who were there.

At the family day, I spoke to Daniel Shaw who drives a Mack R600 for Townsville Mini Loads which took out the most trucks’ award by a small fleet company. Shaw has been a long-time supporter of the convoy and with him were other workers Peta Shaw and Graham Ketchup who were all attired in ‘Caped Crusaders’ outfits. That certainly added atmosphere to the proceedings.

Townsville-based heavy freight specialist Nortrans has been a generous and big supporter of the convoy for many years. I spoke to one of Nortrans’ managers, Kent Battle.

“We have 20 trucks this year and the oldest is a 1961 B Model,” Battle said. It sure turned heads during the convoy and was a centre of attention when parked at the Family Day. It was indeed an event to remember and a credit to all those who gave their time and money for kids with cancer.

Convoy for the Cure Townsville is a truck and motorcycle fundraiser that supports The Cure Starts Now Australia, a charity dedicated to finding new holistic cures in Australian paediatric cancer research.

Turn to page 26 for more photos of the event

Eleni Millios-Hullick, CEO of The Cure Starts Now.

The lead truck from local MP Aaron Harper raised $5261 toward a cure. Photos: Alf Wilson

The police escort at the start of the massive convoy.

Convoy co-ordinator Todd Martin revs up the huge crowd at Family Day.

Townsville convoy in pictures

From page 24 RECORD crowds lined the streets to cheer on a packed Convoy for the Cure Townsville event last month.

Trucks at the marshalling area ready to go.

Jarred Roggero, left, and Tim Miller.

Children high-fiving police officers at the end of the Kids Convoy Race.

Nortans’ Kent Battle at Fun Day. Peta Shaw and Graham Ketchup got into the spirit of the occasion with matching ‘Caped Crusaders’ outfits.

Trucks parked at Ross River Dam area for Family Day.

Aaron Sonter, Callum McMahon and Chris Pearce from Drain Transport.

Daniel Shaw at Family Day.

Back view of trucks along Riverway Drive. Photos: Alf Wilson

The huge crowd at Family Day.

SERIOUS TRUCKS.

SERIOUSLY BADASS.

The Australian-exclusive 48X is the perfect partner. Featuring a set-forward front axle, powered by a Detroit DD13 Gen 5 or DD16 engine, with a fuel tank volume of up to 1,500 L, over 130 tonnes GCM, and a BBC of 113", the 48X boasts up to 600 hp and 2,050 lb-ft. Available with a choice of four sleepers and in a 6×4 wheel configuration, the 48X is just right for any B-double application.

Proud transport heritage celebrated at Rocklea

BY DAVID VILE

FROM a 1914 Fiat right through to the latest Mack Anthem, it was all on display at the 2023 Heritage Truck Show held at the Rocklea Showgrounds in late May.

Drawing trucks and historic vehicles from as far

afield as South Australia, the gathering, organised by the Heritage Truck Association has become a must-attend event on the truck show calendar.

This year’s event celebrated 60 years of Mack truck manufacture in Australia with an outstanding turn-

out of Mack product tracing the evolution of the bulldog breed, from B-Models through to a rare Mack LTL and the iconic Super-Liner from the 1980’s.

Held across the same weekend of the Brisbane Truck Show, many people took advantage of the shuttle

bus running between the two events which added to the healthy crowd numbers taking in the showcase of Australian transport history.

For further information about the association and the recent Rocklea gathering, go to heritagetruckassocation. com.au

This 1914 Fiat shows how far road transport has advanced over the last 100 years.

John Bock from Theodore with his beautifully restored 1961 B-Model Mack.

Robert Rawlins made the trip north from Murray Bridge in South Australia with his Atkinson 3800.

Throwing back to the 1980s with some big Aussie bonneted trucks, a Ford LTL, Mack Super Liner, and Kenworth W-Model.

The only known remaining cab-over Peterbilt in Australia, McIntyre Freightlines’ 1964 -352 model.

Atkinson and International were two of the many truck brands on show at Rocklea.

The legendary Mack B-Model was well represented at Rocklea.

This 1989 Kenworth C500 log truck was restored by Brown and Hurley in Kyogle, NSW.

Two of Mack’s heavy hitters from the 1970s and 80s - the R-Model and Super-Liner.

A diverse range of Mack product was on show at Rocklea in 2023. Photos: David Vile

Bigger and better in 2023

BY GRAHAM HARSANT

AFTER a less than perfect 2021 event, when some major OEMs stayed away due to Covid concerns, the Brisbane Truck Show returned this year bigger and better in every way.

Every major truck manufacturer was there, barring Scania, which opted for client drive days at the AARC Test Facility at Anglesea, Victoria.

An eye-opener, I suggest even for the assembled truck journos, was the plethora of alternative fuel powered trucks on display.

The subject of other articles in this issue of Big Rigs (pages 33-35), 10 OEMs displayed some 22 BEVs. In addition, there were fuel cell, hydrogen, LPG, LPG/D and HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) power options displayed.

Their presence in such numbers would have given pause for thought to the alt-power sceptics, and that’s no bad thing because, like it or not, it’s coming.

Whilst there is no doubt that things will change in the future, diesel power is still king in Australia and the

manufacturers certainly put their best foot forward in this regard.

Kenworth had its cabover K220 centre stage and for good reason. This truck won the inaugural Truck of the Year Australasia against quality opposition from Iveco’s brand new S-Way, MAN’s TG3 and Fuso’s Shogun 510. One point of contention was that auto emergency braking is an option on the KW whilst standard on the other three finalists.

The K220 was joined by a T909, T610 and various other specimens of the brand. Maybe my memory is befuddled, but I don’t remember spying their Legend SAR. No matter, there was a beautiful specimen from Exodas transport on display elsewhere in the building Paccar’s DAF Division displayed a Euro six XF but one of the stars of the show for me at least was the new DAF XG+ which won International Truck of the Year in 2022. A beautiful truck from any angle both inside and out.

Along with the plethora of electric, Daimler displayed a good-looking Fuso Shogun

510 tipper, developed specially and exclusively for Australasia.

A 25th anniversary Mercedes-Benz Actros ‘Driver Edition’ had all the bells and whistles – both in finish and

in safety. Grab one while you can. Freightliner showed up with a road train version of the 126 Cascadia, complete with a 60-inch bunk - the only way to travel in Australia’s outback.

Freightliner’s Stephen Downes was keen to point out the slippery design of the Cascadia, which along with their next generation DD engines is a major factor in fuel use reduction.

To these eyes at least, Daimler would have won Stand of the Show had it not been canned this year.

Volvo’s diesel offering was a striking, multi-coloured FH16 although it wasn’t quite diesel, as it was powered, as were all Volvo’s internal combustion engine trucks at the show, by HVO.

The FH sat alongside a Big Bunk (70 inch) Mack Anthem which pumps out 685 horses, again on HVO. By-the-by, HVO reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 95 per cent. Everything to gain with no loss in power.

Completing the Volvo stand was the UD Quon 8x4 agitator with AMT transmission. Amongst every safety feature you could imagine,

Given the tight areas in which

Continued on page 30

the truck is fitted with blindspot information which detects moving vehicles and vulnerable road users 7 metres in front and 30 metres to the rear.

this type of truck will work, UD can rightly consider this a game-changer.

Kenworth had its cabover K220 centre stage and for good reason. Daimler displayed a good-looking Fuso Shogun 510 tipper.

A 25th anniversary Mercedes-Benz Actros ‘Driver Edition’ had all the bells and whistles.

The award-winning DAF XG+, a beautiful truck from any angle, both inside [see inset] and out.

Head-turning displays

From page 29

THE Isuzu stand as usual, was a sea of white with their full portfolio on display, as well as their 20 kVA enclosed gen set – a premium, ready to work remote power solution.

Penske displayed their new Western Star X–Series, including the 49X with its home-away-from-home 72 inch Stratosphere sleeper (see pages 31-32 for more). There were also keen to point out the three MAN trucks on display from their small cab, 250hp multi-purpose vehicle to the brandnew 640hp big cab.

The TGX was named International Truck of the Year in 2021. MAN’s new truck generation is the first from the German OEM two decades and consequently attracted a lot of attention.

Iveco officially unveiled its new S-Way at the show. Big Rigs has driven this truck and was mightily impressed by it. Hot off the boat (literally) was the company’s brand-new T-Way.

Taking over from the popular Trakker range, it was displayed as a 4x4, with 6x6 and 8x4 configurations available. A mean looking truck, to say it had ‘presence, is an understatement. This is

a truck that says loudly and clearly, “get out of my way!”

Hino displayed its 300, 500 and 700 Series. The 700 was launched during Covid and as such the BTS was its first public display. At the smaller end of the market the company is pushing its 300 Series hybrid–electric truck. Hybrid-electric power

has been available in Hino’s since 2007 but to relatively new VP, Richard Emery’s surprise, it seems most people don’t know of its existence.

Pure Hydrogen unveiled the first hydrogen fuel cell prime mover in Australia. The Taurus is Australian-designed and to say that it

stands out from the pack is an understatement. We’ll let the attached photograph do the talking. Leased to PepsiCo, the truck will soon be seen running around Brisbane suburbs. You won’t miss it!

Also displaying a hydrogen fuel cell electric truck was American company

Hyzon which presented a refuse compactor – or garbage truck in plain speak.

These stands were just the tip of the iceberg at BTS. Cummins displayed their X15 fuel-agnostic engine design where different heads will cater to diesel, natural gas or hydrogen.

Ancillary parts suppliers

were in abundance, as was just about anything even vaguely related to the trucking industry. Truck artist, Brett Sullivan and Zephyr Australia’s (cleaning products) Brian Marsden reported record sales.

Congratulations to the BTS organisers who staged a fantastic event.

Iveco officially unveiled its new S-Way at the show.

MAN’s Thomas Hemmerich, right, and Penske’s Craig Lee introduce the MAN range to media.

Leased to PepsiCo, the Taurus will soon be seen running around Brisbane suburbs.

Volvo’s striking multi-coloured FH16, powered by HVO.

Big bunk battle in Brisbane

THE long lines at the stand displays said it all: a large chunk of the record crowds were hellbent on a close-up look inside the cavernous cabs at this year’s Brisbane Truck Show.

Here’s a closer look at three of those stand stars boasting

some of the biggest bunks and sleepers in the business.

Freightliner 126 Cascadia

The top of the range 126 road train was the star of the stand, featuring a spacious 60-inch cab that transforms it into a

home away from home.

Already on the road today, the 126 Cascadia is quickly established itself as a popular choice for the long-haul driver, whether running with the single or double-bunk option.

Freightliner Australia vice president Stephen Downes tells Big Rigs that the truck has struck a chord with everyone from owner-drivers with multiple trailers who want the room, to two-up teams who like the extra space in the 60-inch double-bunk option.

“Unless you need a day cab, a lot of customer feedback from guys who do five, six, seven days in a row is that they want more space to live out of,” Downes said.

“There’s a fridge in there, there’s a microwave, there’s a TV, you’ve got room to store all the food you need, all your clothes, any other bits and bobs.

“You need a bit of space and you just can’t do that necessarily in a European truck, and I mean that in the nicest possible way because the bunks just aren’t that big.”

Dovetail those fatigue-fighting features with the truck’s extensive safety systems and Downes believes the Cascadia gives the truckie, and other road users, the best opportunity to get home safely.

Cascadia trucks feature the full Detroit Assurance suite of advanced safety features as standard, including the radar/ camera Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Intelligent High Beam (IHB), while Side Guard Assist (SGA) is available as an option.

As for the likelihood of Australian regulations ever falling into line with the US, where big sleepers are the order of the day, Downes said the key is striking the optimal arrangement so driver fatigue

is minimised and road user safety is maximised.

“That in my mind encompasses two things. From a fatigue perspective, people doing longer hauls are getting the best quality rest they can, and the other part is we really need to take a tougher line on the safety equipment that not everybody is putting in their trucks voluntarily.”

The big Cascadia also features a tough factory-developed bullbar designed to protect the truck without affecting the operation of the front radar unit that forms part of the Detroit Assurance

active safety pack. All 126 models feature the big 16-litre six-cylinder DD16 Detroit engine that pumps out up to 600hp and 2050lbft of torque.

It can be paired with a 12-speed Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) that is so smart it can use GPS and topographic data to help the truck maximise its coasting and pick the perfect gear for the terrain. Customers are also able to select an old-school 18-speed Eaton manual if they prefer.

Continued on page 32

They’ve thought of everything in the 126 Cascadia.

Truck show visitors made a beeline for the impressive road train display.

WRAP-UP

A home away from home

From page 31

‘Big Bunk’

Super-Liner

Show fans were blown away by the home-away-fromhome features inside the prototype Super-Liner that’s due to go on sale late next year.

The Mack Super-Liner is going great guns in road train applications and since the legislation came in last year allowing B-doubles to be 27m on road train routes there’s also more leeway on length.

It’s all about the space in the 70-inch ‘Big Bunk’ version of the 36-inch sleeper that’s currently available with all the creature comforts for a long stretch on the road; TV, microwave, and fridge.

There’s also a fully integrated bunk so you can just stand up from behind the steering wheel and walkthrough with no chance of bumping the head.

The new walk- through sleeper will be available in a variety of configurations as an option for the heavy haul-oriented Super-Liner.

“Our display at the show this year tells our best news to date,” said Tom Chapman, vice-president Mack Trucks Australia.

“The addition of a 70inch integrated sleeper really bolsters the Super-Liner’s credentials as a heavy haulage and road train hauler.”

Chapman said the MP10 engine has quietly built an admirable reputation for du-

rability, efficiency and performance in demanding heavy haul roles over the last decade.

“In these applications the driver can be away from home for weeks rather than days.

“This is a state-of-the-art sleeper cab designed for the driver.”

Chapman said that being able to spec the Base-Air suspension system straight from the factory and the option of an integrated home away from home truly makes the Super-Liner hard to ignore

for long distance road train roles.

The 34-pallet B-double optimised spec Mack Anthem was also on display at the show featuring an integrated 36-inch walk-through sleeper which has continued to deliver new levels of fuel efficiency, uptime and driver comfort for Australian linehaul customers.

Western Star 49X

Kurt Dein, head of Western Star Trucks at Penske Australia, said the show exceeded all

of his expectations in terms of interest.

“The feedback was tremendous, it was an amazing show,” Dein said.

“Having the trucks open with the stairs going into them and the 72-inch which is unquestionably the class-leading sleeper in Australia with that lounge suit, dining table, driver lounger assembly, it drew some attention.

“There was a line up all day long to get up into it.”

The largest cab on the

Australian market, the 72inch Stratosphere sleeper is a sight to behold for the road-weary truckie.

“The stick rises out of a totally flat floor and size 17 boots have no trouble walking around it to enter the sleeper,” said Big Rigs test driver Graham Harsant in his review last year. “And what a sleeper! Lift the bunk up to reveal two seats either side of a table which rises at the touch of a lever.

“The roof stretches up to the heavens and I comment-

ed that there was plenty of space across the rear to add a second shelf or even more cupboards. I’m told that’s for a second bunk. The rear wall of the cabin is emblazoned with the Western Star logo and looks classy and modern.

“There’s lots of LED lighting, a decent fridge, room for a microwave, great vertical cupboard space to store all your blue singlets, shorts and even a formal suit in case you should pick up the Queen – sorry, King – hitchhiking somewhere across the outback.”

Dein said the Stratosphere does come in multiple configurations. The optional driver lounge suite does fold up and the table tucks down and 40-inch inner-spring folds down for bottom sleeping quarters.

“You can also option an upper-bunk solution as well with a foldable ladder so you can climb up, with the driver lounge.”

There’s also 72-inch mid option which gives drivers a 3.6m cab height without compromising on the lounge suite and all the other many storage features, speakers, and full LED lighting.

A guaranteed good night’s sleep inside the new Super-Liner.

The new Western Star 49X was one of the standout attractions on the main floor.

The Stratosphere goes from a lounge to a bedroom in seconds.

The giant Mack Super-Liner prototype drew plenty of admirers in Brisbane.

Janus Electric charges on with diesel

WHAT a difference two years makes in the ever-changing world of electric truck conversion technology.

Since its debut at the 2021 Brisbane Truck Show, NSW start-up Janus Electric has made impressive headway, all without any funding love from state or federal agencies who continue to be putting all their faith in hydrogen. Companies like Cement Australia, Fennel Forestry and Qube are on board, and Janus is also now working with CHL and Bunnings using its converted Western Star.

In Brisbane, CEO Lex Forsyth gave Big Rigs a closeup look at why he’s confident that more companies are soon to follow suit, the new JCM 540 conversion module, complete engine, air compressor, hydraulic power steering, air con, cooling system, all built on to the one module, which has a 720hp, or 540kW Dyna motor.

“And then it’s got a 16-speed transmission bolted into the back of it. So, it’s one gearbox, one motor package and then all the ancillary sys-

tems on top of the motor are hooked into the high voltage, so it’s reduced cabling, and a lot of things that could go wrong have been engineered out of the truck.

“It’s very much a very simple solution.”

With the batteries now loaded into the side of the truck – in 2021 they were put into the front – the JCM 540 directly bolts into where the diesel engine comes out.

“So, there’s no modification to the front grille, everything is going in to where the original motor was in the truck and it’s sped up conversion times.”

That will now set you back $170,000 but Forsyth says that equates to a twoyear payback if you’re doing 180,000-200,000km per year – a year if you’re running over 300,000km – just in diesel and maintenance savings.

Those kinds of numbers are resonating. Forsyth tells us he has 150 firm orders and another 450 expressions of interest, and a couple of trucks going to the US.

Although Janus has sidestepped the axle weight issues

other OEMs are striking with electric vehicles due to its ability to tailor where the battery goes to get the weight off the steer axle, Forsyth believes the federal government “forgot about trucks” in its latest budget.

In the US, Forsyth says fleet owners already receive

a $108,000 assistant package to convert their vehicle to electric.

“I don’t believe we can all live on government handouts, but I think the government can play an active role in just clearing the legislation, or putting a consistent rule factor in place for zero emissions

around axle weights.

“Clear the ADR backlogs, and then also help with the recharging networks and not just have a policy focused on one energy source or one energy solution.”

Janus has just launched the electric solar highway project, a new initiative aimed at Class

8 trucks that it hopes will see solar farms and renewable energy charge and change stations along the M1 of Australia’s east coast and Adelaide from 2024.

“We’re committed to making an electric highway, and we’ll do it,” Forsyth said.

“I don’t think the government should be picking winners. They’ve got to look at it and say there’s a transition period, and let the market determine what’s going to be the winner.

“We look at what’s being thrown into hydrogen and what’s going into electric and it’s totally out of whack.”

Even so, Forsyth is confident that Janus will have electrified the Brisbane-Sydney run by Christmas, with just four minutes needed to change batteries out along the way.

“We’ve spoken to Jim Pearson and what we’ll probably do is throw a few spare batteries on and we’ll do a couple of runs and just have a B-double loaded to 68.5 tonnes.

“We’ll drop in and swap out batteries on the way just to do some testing.”

Janus Electric CEO Lex Forsyth unveiled the new JCM 540 at the show. Photo James Graham

BY GRAHAM HARSANT

LAST year Big Rigs was at the IAA Truck Show in Hanover, Germany – the world’s largest truck show. We were frankly gobsmacked at the plethora of electric trucks on display there.

Over 80 per cent of the product had electric motive power. This equates to dozens, if not hundreds of trucks.

By comparison, the last Brisbane Truck Show (BTS) in 2021 had from memory, just three. There was the Fuso eCanter – the first electric truck to go on sale in Australia. There was SEA Electric with their Hino-based product, and there was Lex Forsyth’s Janus truck.

Two years is a long time in trucking it would appear, if this year’s BTS is any indicator. In 2023 nearly every OEM had some electric on their stand. Here is a walkthrough of the offerings. Prepare to be astounded.

At the official media launch of the show, major sponsor Ampol spoke of its involvement in electrification. The company is in

the process of rolling out, in partnership with governments, a range of fastcharging solutions. It will install around 300 charging bays over the balance of this year and into next for cars and are actively working on what an EV truck fast-charging network

might look like.

Whilst Kenworth didn’t have a BEV on show, the brand did display a fuel cell electric truck. Shock, horror no doubt for rusted on KW diesel loving fans. Parent company PACCAR, which also owns DAF, also displayed one of that brand’s

EV trucks. Conversely Daimler who have displayed EVs over the past three shows in the form of the Fuso eCanter were bolder.

The company displayed the first Mercedes-Benz heavy duty EV trucks for Australia in the form of the eActros and the eEconic. The M-B

products both featured the eAxle which combines electric motor and differential in one unit. These trucks are about to undergo a validation program and Big Rigs expects to sample them in real world conditions in the near future.

Also featured on the

Take a walk down through Brisbane’s electric avenue Midland.

Daimler stand was the second generation Fuso eCanter, again with the eAxle. From the original single model the brand now has a range of different weight ratings, sizes and wheel bases. It will now be available with three different battery pack sizes, dramatically increasing the driving range from the 100km of the original model back in 2017.

Electric featured heavily on the Volvo stand and is the subject of a separate article in Big Rigs (see page 12). Volvo is the first company to have heavy duty EV vehicles on sale in Australia right now.

Possibly in an effort to beat the rest of the market to the punch, the Volvo’s driveline has the electric motor connected to the differential via a tail shaft. The company informs us that their eAxle is around two years away. Currently fully imported, Volvo will go to local production of EVs in 2027.

Volvo’s other products in Mack and UD had no EV is on display although all trucks on the stand were powered with HVO

INSURANCE BROKERS

Fuso’s eCanter 2nd Gen includes new bigger models, and greater range options.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks will soon begin local validation programs for the eActros in Australia.

The Mighty is rated at 7.3 tonnes with a payload of around 3.5 tonnes.

(Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil or Renewable Diesel fuel), which in itself aids in emission reduction.

Isuzu showed their brand-new N-series EV, first revealed in Japan in March. This is the very first factory developed Isuzu zero emission BEV. The company offered no timeline of when a product would be available in Australia.

Founded 10 years ago right here in Australia and having launched their first commercial products in 2017, SEA Electric displayed a vast array of BEV vehicles up to 22.5 tonnes GVM.

The company has vehicles operating in seven countries,

with substantial operations now in the US where they have recently been awarded long-term supply contracts for the C-drive power system range with both Mack and Hino, Hino having been a body supplier to SEA Electric since their launch.

The company in the US just recently unveiled a range combining a 250kW battery with either a 30 or 45kW hydrogen fuel cell operating as a range extender. This is truly an Australian success story.

Whilst Iveco’s new S-Way and T-Way models are both diesel powered the company did introduce the new E-Daily BEV for the first time. With a 111kW bat-

tery, 140kW of power and 400N metres of torque, the Iveco Daily chassis and rail setup allows the van to have a modular system with its batteries, i.e more as you need them to increase the range.

Iveco believes is has one of the best payload potentials on the market for this type of truck with up to 300km of travel. The E-Daily begins local testing immediately following the BTS and will be conducting research with alternative fuel partners, customers and tertiary institutions.

Foton is a name not many will be familiar with in trucking terms, much less EVs, but this company

has held the number one position for 18 years in the Chinese market. Last year it sold over 460,000 commercial vehicles in the local market and internationally. Cumulatively it has now manufactured and sold over 11 million trucks and vans globally.

Foton Mobility is an Australian-owned distributor of the brand with a range of trucks and EV buses plus a new range coming soon of hydrogen prime movers. At BTS the company displayed its T5 EV with a 4.5 tonnes GVM in car licence application and there is there is a 6 tonnes variant for those seeking a larger payload.

The truck on display pairs

a striking resemblance to the Cantor trucks. The bigger trucks in China in fact closely resemble the front-end of the M-B Actros. It would appear the company is a fan of Daimler.

It would be foolish however to ignore the brand given its dominance in Asia and other parts of the world, and under the stewardship of Bill Gillespie who brings a wealth of truck industry knowledge, we can expect to see much more of this brand.

Finally we come to Hyundai. The company, with more than 50 years’ experience in the truck industry, is launching its Mighty EV this year.

A 120kW, 320N metres electric motor powered by a 114kW battery, this light duty truck is rated at 7.3 tonnes with a payload of around 3.5 tonnes and has a working range of 200km based on real-world testing conducted here in Australia.

Another EV truck, the X-cent is also coming. If the truck division lives up to the quality of its car division, Hyundai should enjoy success in the bright new world of electric trucking.

From three manufacturers with three trucks at BTS in 2021, this year the show saw 10 manufacturers with some 23 electric truck models. The 2025 show will be very interesting.

Although little known in Australia, Foton is a megastar in China with over 11m sales globally.The new Kenworth T680, a hydrogen-powered Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle.

LEGO Mack bound for record

Drake Collectibles range expands

BY DAVID VILE

DRAWING a constant stream of onlookers at the South Bank Truck Festival were the team tasked with making a life-size Mack Anthem prime mover solely out of LEGO bricks.

Master LEGO builder Ben Craig oversaw the project which took a number of weeks to complete, with the final component, a gold bulldog, being attached to the bonnet of the truck on May 20.

Joshua Stewart was part of the big team and having undertaken ‘big builds’ of LEGO

in the past, answered the call to help out with putting the Anthem together some weeks before the show.

“There are around 900,000 pieces in total making the truck up. We started on the Gold Coast in the brick builders’ warehouse before we moved everything here 12 days ago.

The cab took the longest as we built it on the ground and we had to jack it up, that was a scary 45 minutes!” he said.

For those who are familiar with the humble plastic brick, the truck is predominantly made out of 2x2, 1x2 and 2x4

bricks, with the colour scheme mimicking the grey and black of a ‘real’ Anthem which was parked alongside providing a comparison.

Replicating the real thing with its rounded smooth styling was not without its challenges for the brick building team, according to Stewart.

“It’s as close as we could get to in terms of shape and form to replicate the truck. The most difficult part was trying to get the curvature out of it,. By default LEGO bricks are square but when you get to this scale it is fairly easy to replicate it.

“When we got into the roof though we knew what type of line we had to try and follow, so we used a few different methods to achieve that without too much weight which would cause it to collapse.”

With the completion of the truck at 11am on Saturday, May 20, the truck was still being assessed by Guinness World Records as we went to print, as the largest truck made entirely of LEGO.

For Mack Trucks Australia vice president Tom Chapman, the build project provided an ideal opportunity to celebrate a major milestone for Mack in Australia.

“We wanted to draw some attention to the fact that we still build trucks in Australia and this year we are celebrating 60 years of making trucks right here in Brisbane,” he said.

“Every single Mack that people see on the road has been built locally and we wanted to do something that would also engage the community and create some awareness. Kids of all ages big and small love LEGO and Mack so we thought what better way than to build a life size truck – we have done some cool projects before, and this is definitely up there.”

WITH a number of trucks being unveiled to the public for the first time at the Brisbane Truck Show, it would be fair to say the variety of scale models released by the team at Drake Collectibles across the four days drew the biggest crowds.

The Brisbane-based company has become a highly regarded manufacturer of scale truck and trailer models over the last 14 years and the show saw some exciting new releases for collectors, along with a preview of planned releases into 2024.

Kicking off the releases was the Kenworth K200 and 5x8 float, presented in the green and white colours of Sydney based Hi-Quality group, the first such model to be produced in their company colours.

A range of Kenworth models also followed across the show, including a T909 Director for both VE Group and Membrey’s Transport, along with a pink-liveried T909 for Wollongong-based Ross Transport.

Netherlands-based Mammoet Group is one of the largest heavy-haulage companies operating worldwide, and 2023 also saw another Drake release, a Kenworth C509 based on their trucks which operate in Australia. Paired up to the C509 is a Freighter triple road train trailer

set, which is also the first time a triple road train combination has been produced as a set. Also on the trailer front, a number of Boxloader container-trailer variants were launched, including those in Doolans and Membrey’s liveries.

With the success of the Kenworth SAR Legend, unveiled by PACCAR in 2021, Drake also took on the task of replicating it in 1/50 scale, with the unveiling of a resin prototype as the model undergoes development and tooling for a production release next year. The trailer range produced by Drake will also be enhanced, with an O’Phee livestock trailer currently being developed for release in 2024.

At the helm of Drake Collectibles is Bruce Hay, and he is justifiably proud of the advances made since first launching at the 2009 show. “If you had of told me when we started how much we would have grown, I wouldn’t have believed it,” he said. “We never set out to become a model manufacturer but here we are with a distribution network throughout the world and a cabinet full of awards for our diecast models - people look at the trucks downstairs and can’t afford one, but they come upstairs and go home happy with one of ours.”

The pink Ross Transport Kenworth T909 was one of a number of new Drake releases at Brisbane.

The Drake Collectibles stand was a crowd puller at the show’s merchandise alley precinct.

LEGO builder Joshua Stewart, left, and Mack Trucks Australia vice president Tom Chapman with the completed truck.

With the construction team working into the night, the Mack takes shape at the South Bank Truck Festival.

The Drone Way flies high in Brisbane

WITH over 110,000 people following his Facebook page, Nullarbor truck driver and founder of ‘The Drone Way’ photographic business, Ben Stamatovich, was appointed as one of the Brisbane Truck Show ambassadors this year.

With a gallery of his photographic creations on display drawing a steady stream of visitors, along with his ambassadorial duties, Stamatovich was one of the busiest people working across the four days of the event.

“I was asked by the organisers of the show about 12 months ago to be a show ambassador and there has been a lot of build-up in getting here,” he said.

It was the first time he had exhibited his works, which capture stunning landscapes and aerial shots of Australia, all taken with his trusty drone, as he travels between Adelaide and Perth.

“There has been plenty of interest. With the big following on Facebook there’s been a lot of

people dropping in to say g’day here. It’s a win-win, as we can use that following in the role I have as an ambassador to help get people in through the door. It’s always good to meet new people and hear their stories too,” he said.

From the initial purchase of the drone back in 2016 and the expansion of his business in the years since, Stamatovich’s work driving a truck has allowed him to capture different parts of Australia through the lens from a different perspective.

“I try to create the best views of Australia without the Opera House and Harbour Bridge –there is so much to see in Australia. Doing the driving I know where I am going to be to try and catch a good sunrise or sunset – I cross the Nullarbor twice a week so if I miss a shot I know I will get another opportunity soon enough. Everybody likes a good picture, and the drone offers a different perspective as well,” he said.

His gallery display at Bris-

bane featured trucks on the Nullarbor, along with rural images and some stunning pictures snapped along the Great Australian Bight.

Having sold his framed pictures and calendars around the globe, two of his works were auctioned off at the Truck Show Breakfast on the

event’s opening day. Over $2000 was raised through the auction for ‘Healthy Heads in Trucks and Sheds’, the official char-

ity of the 2023 event.

“It’s always good to give something back, and that inspires me to keep on going,” he said.

Brisbane Convoy is gearing up for the kids in November

Mork and his team of volunteers are aiming to break the 700-truck barrier in 2023.

The Brisbane Convoy has been in partnership for the last six years with the Hummingbird House Foundation, which is Queensland’s only children’s hospice, and in that time over half a million dollars has been raised.

As in years past, the convoy will assemble at Larapinta for the 70km journey across Brisbane to a truck show and family day at the Redcliffe Showgrounds.

sion of the convoy. We have first, second and third across 28 categories so it would have to be also one of the largest truck shows in Australia,” she continued.

Over the years the event has received strong support from the Queensland trucking industry, with a number of fleets entering multiple trucks each year.

“Every person on the committee all volunteers their time and resources. We have a very good committee. If we can help a family out in any way we will. As soon as the convoy is over we will sit

in the bar with a ‘coldie’ and start taking about what we are going to do and where we can take this to next year,” he concluded.

For more information, go to brisbaneconvoyforkids.com.au.

“IT’S just a day of full-on fun for the kids!” said Darren ‘Mork’ Cartner, vice-president of the Brisbane Convoy for Kids committee, which had a display at the show promoting the annual event, to be held

this year on November 4.

Having run each year since 2010, the convoy would be one of, if not the largest, gatherings of trucks and truckies annually, and with over 640 trucks participating in the 2022 event,

“We have a different shirt colour each year – this year it is green and every driver that enters in the convoy gets a shirt. It will be a sea of green,” said Leanne Prince, committee treasurer.

“Along with that, every truck driver that registers a truck in also gets an entry into the truck show at the conclu-

“We have a lead truck auction in the week before which raises more dollars and the top 20 in the auction then lead the convoy. The trucking community here in Brisbane really get behind us and support us on the day. Corporate support is great but we can always do with more!” Mork said.

As is the case with many other community events, the Convoy is run entirely by volunteers, all with the aim of raising money for children and families in need.

Founder of The Drone Way, Ben Stamatovich, with his photographic display at the Brisbane Truck Show

Darren ‘Mork’ Cartner and Leanne Prince with the Brisbane Convoy for Kids stand at the Brisbane Truck Show.

Once again, the coveted lead truck position for the 2023 Convoy will be auctioned to raise money for the Hummingbird House Foundation.

Reader Rigs proudly supported by

Share your truck pics to win with Shell Rimula

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

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

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

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

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

Brad Russell having a spell in Kewdale before loading for home.

Ezekiel Ziggy Clifford took this shot while travelling northbound on the Landsborough Highway, just outside of Kynuna, Queensland.

John Mulder snapped this shot of his 36 tonne tri dolly quad float travelling up the Great Central Road to Gruyere Gold Mine in WA. Josh Rigney snapped this great shot while enjoying the sunrise near Walgett, NSW.

Kevin Bemrose took this sunrise shot in south-west WA.

ongratulations to aron uller ho has on a hell oles Gift ard for this great shot snapped hile tipping off at sunset.

When the going gets tough, truckies keep everyone going

Down the White Lines Truck Photography snapped this Peterbilt semi tipper leaving the Barossa Valley.

Jason Maracic at Coolfreight heads for Gidgie country, Western Australia.

Shaun Payne heads northbound at Bulahdelah, NSW, carrying a load of brand new beer bottles on a perfect autumn day.

Michael Roels had another great day out at Sunny Corner, NSW, when he snapped this pic.

Corina Rina Oldenmenger and her colleague unload lime at sunrise between Albury and Holbrook, NSW.

Matt Langley’s first load into Lake Nash power station in Northern Territory after a huge wet season.

Peter Hamilton caught this picturesque shot at the Bunda Cliffs in South Australia.

Natrad HDS ADFUSE bonus off to a great start

IT was a successful event for the Natrad Heavy Duty Specialist team at the recent Brisbane Truck Show. Having a wide variety of radiators, intercoolers and engine cooling parts

on display meant there was plenty to see and talk about. However, one of the greatest benefits was that visitors had access to the vast amount of knowledge and experience from the exhibiting team.

Those from the team that were available to speak with included Natrad HDS workshop owners from around Australia plus a variety of senior staff from Adrad, Australia’s largest radiator man-

ufacturer and supplier.

Mick Flynn, business development manager for Adrad Industrial Products, was involved throughout the event. “I was impressed to meet with such a large

number of visitors at the stand who had travelled the length and breadth of the country to attend,” he said.

“They came from Far North Queensland, Western Australia, Tasmania and everywhere in between.

“When providing a quality cooling solution, it’s important to consider the type of vehicle involved and the operating environment. Ambient temperatures, air flow, airborne debris, corrosion protection and vibration are all taken into account. We can vary the design of our Australian made radiators to ensure they deliver maximum cooling performance even in the most extreme environments,” Flynn continued.

The Brisbane Truck Show also marked the launch of Natrad’s national ADFUSE Gift Card promotion which runs until June 30. In this promotion, Natrad HDS customers receive a bonus $100 Dan Murphy’s or Coles Myer Group gift card with each ADFUSE welded radiator they purchase. Just days after the show had started, Natrad had already received

MICK FLYNN

several registration claims for these gift cards, so it looks like the promotion promises to be a great success.

For a wealth of knowledge and advice about cooling for all kinds of heavy vehicles and equipment, talk to a Natrad Heavy Duty Specialist. Visit natrad.com. au/heavy-duty-specialists/ to find your nearest workshop and get a quality cooling solution that’s tailored for your needs. If an Adrad ADFUSE radiator or charge air cooler is needed, you’ll also be able to score yourself a nice gift card in the process – but only until June 30, 2023.

Natrad workshop owners Daryl (Beaudesert QLD), John (Moorabbin VIC), David (Sunshine VIC) and Sunny (Marrickville NSW) hosting the Natrad HDS stand at the Brisbane Truck Show.

WHEN PROVIDING A QUALITY COOLING SOLUTION, IT’S IMPORTANT TO CONSIDER THE TYPE OF VEHICLE INVOLVED AND THE OPERATING ENVIRONMENT.”

Clean trucks, no sweat

BIG rig owners and operators love the huge investments that are often their pride and joy. One thing they don’t like is the time it takes to clean these vehicles to make them look their best.

Aussie’s survey

An ad-hoc survey carried out by Aussie Pumps recently on truck owners showed that many of them have an expert knowledge of vehicle mechanics but don’t know much about triplex pumps or pressure cleaners. The problem is exacerbated because most pressure cleaners on the market are cheap third world products, available through tool shops, hardware stores, even mower shops. These are aimed at DIYers, not professional operators.

For cleaning a big project like earthmoving plant or a big semi you need a professional machine.

Why Aussie is best

When Aussie Pumps introduced the Scud five years ago it took the market by storm. Elegant in design, functional, easy to push around and extremely powerful, the Scuds are ideal for big plant washdown.

With a fully welded stainless steel frame (no bolt togethers for Aussie), and the world’s best high pressure piston pump –the “Big Berty” Bertolini – the

machines come in a range of three specific models targeting the transport industry.

All powered by a Honda 13hp engine, available in either recoil or electric start, the machines are gearbox driven. That means no belts and pulleys to wear or fray and of course the machines are slow speed. The engine runs at 3200rpm but, by the time it’s got through the reduction box to the pump, the pump is only running at 1450rpm. Those big pumps, with huge, finned crank cases run cooler and provide long, trouble-free life, for decades.

All machines come with “Aussie’s Safety Protection” kit which includes a safety valve that will blow off in the event of a pressure spike. A thermal dump valve is also fitted as standard equipment. This is to protect the machine from overheating if left on excessive bypass. High pressure guns, long lances and even stainless steel reels with 30 metres of high pressure hose are all part of the package of accessories available to operators.

Cleaning a “big rig” needs the convenience of having a cleaning machine that can do the job fast.

Three Scud options

The Aussie Scud range offers three options for pressure/flow combinations.

For extremely dirty applications, Aussie reckons their Scud 351 is the go. With a flow of 21 litres per minute, matched to 2600psi pressure performance, the machine will make light work of even stock crates.

The Scud comes standard with detergent injection as part of the kit. A 5000psi rated gun with a stainless steel double lance enables high pressure/ low pressure modulation and the activation of the detergent system. Using Aussie’s heavy duty Turbo Master turbo lance means the blaster has an effective working pressure (EWP) of 4000psi.

Second in the line-up is the Scud 350. This machine produces 3000psi at 15lpm, same great engine, same gearbox drive heavy-duty “Big Berty” pump, and matched with a turbo, the EWP becomes 4785psi!

The third option, Aussie’s Scud 400, is found in every Kennard’s Hire branch around the country; or in the diesel version at Coates operations. It’s a winner. With 4000psi and 15lpm the machine has the extra grunt, and flow to get the cleaning of big rigs done fast. Add a turbo and the Scud 400 delivers an amazing EWP of 6485psi. All machines are available with detergent injection as standard equipment, and all the safety gear you would ever want.

THE CONNECTED TRUCK

1300 111 477

Aussie’s industrial pressure cleaner range slashes cleaning times and adds a new level of convenience.

The Connected Truck is transforming the way our teams work by bringing real-time visibility and information to the workplace. This technology enhances not only our driver’s safety with fatigue and maintenance tools, but also promotes sustainability through fuel efficiency and effective job management.

Smarter, smaller, faster, stronger

INNOVATION continues

to be at the forefront of Airtec Corporation’s product range, with the latest arrival to their SmartOBM series launching at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show – introducing The AXS SmartOBM System.

tomers to understand what the industry needs and wants from their on-board mass units and believe the new AXS will deliver a better experience for our truckies, operators, fleet managers, as well as truck and trailer manufacturers,” said co-found-

The Australian designed and manufactured gauges continue to support the compliance needs of Australia’s truckies. Yes, the AXS SmartOBM System is TCA Category B approved and ready to take the “weight” of the industry. Designed to support all airbag suspension trucks, prime movers, trailers and dollies as well as being suitable for both dual and single sensor ride height controls.

At only 80mm in diameter and smaller than your coffee cup, the AXS SmartOBM System is the smallest and most durable product in the Airtec range. This small but mighty piece of technology is an industry first with its wireless, Bluetooth-mesh capability allowing for faster mass updates and over-the-air calibration. Meaning you can weigh in, no matter where you are and without the need for signal

In addition to the bright LCD screen that customers love, a brand new LED ring interface has been designed. The LED ring displays three different colours (blue, green and red) that change accord-

ing to your load; making it easier than ever to determine if you are under, within or over your weight limits.

Made with an aluminum base and polycarbonate cover, Airtec’s AXS SmartOBM System is 100 per cent waterproof and guaranteed to withstand the harshest conditions of the Australian outback.

It’s not just the hardware that’s had a makeover. Airtec has ensured the already popular “TruckOBM” App is ready to integrate seamlessly with the AXS SmartOBM System product range. Once updated

on your Smartphone, Airtec’s “TruckOBM” App will be able to support the over-the-air (OTA) firmware and calibration upgrades; allowing you to calibrate gauges in the comfort of your cab via the App, rather than via the unit front panels – saving you ‘tonnes’ of time on the road.

Airtec’s latest, and might we say greatest new product is packed with the smartest technology, compliance accreditation, increased functionality, local support and so much more. The AXS SmartOBM System will ensure you are not

only prepared for today, but ready for the future.

Order yours today:

• 89AXS101D Single Sensor: $1,090 ex GST. Available for pre-order. Dispatch in September 2023

• 89AXS102D Dual Sensor: $1,270 ex GST. Available for pre-order. Dispatch in September 2023

• 89ASXR001 In Cab-Remote: $499 ex GST. Available now!

For more information about the new AXS SmartOBM System call Airtec on 1800 818 884.

Airtec co-founder and CEO David Hewett with the all the AXS SmartOBM.

Unmissable opportunity for federal government

eral hydrogen-powered vehicles, and engines running on alternative fuels were also prominent.

We also had innovative technologies on display to recover braking energy to power refrigeration systems or other on-vehicle systems.

NOW that the Brisbane Truck Show is over for this year, I have been reflecting on what I have learned from this show.

My overall impression is that the industry continues to be a leader in innovation and is committed to providing quality products that allow Australia’s world-leading road transport system to thrive.

In particular, I am impressed by how many exhibitors were displaying, electric, hydrogen, alternative fuel and hybrid products.

Two truck shows ago we saw the first signs of this with electric drive trains and a handful of electric and hybrid vehicles on display.

This year electric vehicles were everywhere; we had sev-

The inescapable conclusion is that the heavy vehicle industry already has much of the technology available to support the transition to low-emission vehicles.

So, the next obvious question is when will these vehicles be rolling out into the community in numbers?

The answer to that question depends on when will the energy be available to run them.

We can’t rely on the electricity grid to provide the power.

Despite decades of investment in renewables, the electricity grid is still dependent on fossil fuels and, in any event, does not have anywhere near the capacity to provide the energy necessary to run the transport sector.

This leads to my next observation about the truck show.

We are seeing a much larger engagement from energy companies at the truck show. The energy companies understand that finding innovative ways of providing the energy that transport needs is a key part of the puzzle.

They are partnering with early adopters in projects designed to allow them to generate and store their own energy (or use biofuels or hydrogen produced elsewhere)

WHICH OIL IS TRUSTED BY TRANSPORT PROS? YOU KNOW

and gather data on the costs, benefits and issues associated with rolling out the energy infrastructure necessary to support these new vehicle technologies.

In many ways, this is analogous to what happened with smartphone technology.

Early adopters who are willing to commit to new technologies work out how to refine the technology and reduce costs to allow the tech-

nology to be adopted more widely.

However, the early adopters who are using this technology are currently limited to “back-to-base” operations due to the lack of publicly available charging or refuelling infrastructure.

Relying on back-to-base operations will not be adequate for widespread rollout across the road transport sector.

This is where government

needs to step up and ensure that there is a clear road map for how the energy (in particular) and the energy infrastructure necessary to support the transport sector will be provided at a reasonable cost.

It is not so much that government has dropped the ball; more that they have failed to pick it up.

That is why we recently put out a joint call to government to develop a zero-emissions strategy for heavy vehicles.

In the meantime, our industry will continue to innovate; more productive PBS vehicles, increasingly fuel-efficient internal combustion engines and other innovations to improve productivity and reduce transport emissions.

So, the message to government from the Brisbane Truck Show 2023 is: industry is clearly doing our bit – it is now over to you.

This is an unmissable opportunity for government at all levels to create a legacy that future generations will admire. There is, however, no alternative option.

Valvoline’s lubricants and industry expertise are trusted by transport operators across the country. Whether you’re operating American, European, or Japanese trucks, Valvoline is trusted to provide superior performance, extended engine life and reduce maintenance downtime.

Electric drivetrains, such as this one from SEA Electric, were a feature of this year’s show.

Foster delivers the good oil

BY DAVID VILE

THE Brisbane Truck Show always draws a number of well-known identities, and in 2023 there were none largerthan-life than multiple World Champion axeman, David Foster, who was attending the event in his capacity as ambassador for Atlantic Oil.

Now retired from competitive woodchopping, the towering Tasmanian was making his second appearance at the event. Taking up the sport in 1976, Foster chopped his way into the record books in a career that saw him captain the Australian woodchopping team and amass over 2000 first places in competition, 170 Australian titles and a staggering 186 world titles, which included 60 world titles at the Sydney Easter Show which is regarded as the ‘Wimbledon of Woodchopping’.

“It’s great to be here, the show is fantastic and being the ambassador for Atlantic gives me the opportunity to travel around Australia and talk to lots of people about life in general,” he said. Hailing from the Apple Isle, Foster is well aware of the importance of trucks and trucking and the role it plays across the agricultural and timber industries of Tasmania and as such was keen to help spread the mes-

sage to young people about the career paths available. “Transport is a great industry to get involved in. One thing I have found is the comradeship within the ranks. If any young people out there are looking for a job options, the trucking industry has a great group of people to be involved with,” he said.

“You only have to come to trade shows like this –from the trucks themselves through to the ancillary equipment like truck tyres and bull bars, the whole industry combines here as one. It’s also amazing to see how trucks have come so far with

technology these days.”

Foster also commented on how critical road transport is to the economy and how drivers’ band together to help each other out. “We depend so much on the trucking industry and the consumer at the end of the day needs to real-

ise that this nation will stop if we do not have truckies doing their bit. Truckies work flat out but when you get someone who is in need, they will find time to help out because they are a group who care –and that’s a great industry to be involved in.”

Mirror king reflects on over three decades of success

H&M Ferman is an Australian company servicing the motor industry. It’s the only manufacturer of truck and bus mirrors in Australia and has dominated the Australian truck and bus rear view mirrors original equipment manufacturer market for more than 35 years.

It designs, produces and distributes both locally and overseas, with its main OEM customers including Isuzu, Iveco, Hino, UD trucks, Daimler Chrysler, bus and coach body manufacturers,

and federal and state transit authorities.

Hasmotek designs and offers full customisation of internal and external LED lights for trucks and buses as well as the design and manufacture of rechargeable robust work and inspection lights.

Our passenger car division has been supplying VW, Audi, BMW and Mercedes as well as OEM quality aftermarket parts since 1975 and it carries a full range for both air and water cooled models.

Hasmotek can custom design LED lights as per customer’s requests.

H&M Ferman reached another important milestone in 2022. We designed, manufactured and supplied OE full mirrors/arms kits to a leading truck brand in Australia: Daimler-Fuso. Both the Fighter and Shogun models are now equipped with made in Australia rear view mirror kits. For more information, please call 02 9533 2722 or visit hasmot.com.

Multiple world champion axeman David Foster on the Atlantic Oil stand at the Brisbane Truck Show.

Foster chopped his way into the record books in a career that saw over 2000 first places in competition.

Photo: Facebook

WE DEPEND SO MUCH ON THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY AND THE CONSUMER AT THE END OF THE DAY NEEDS TO REALISE THAT THIS NATION WILL STOP IF WE DO NOT HAVE TRUCKIES DOING THEIR BIT.”

DAVID FOSTER

Improve operational safety with the tipper body stand

ABS Trailquip offers the road transport industry a variety of truck and trailer parts including air brake valves and accessories, air brake fittings, air springs, suspensions, axles, calipers, rotors, disc pads, converter dollies, LED lighting, rims and tyres, shock absorbers and more.

Based in Rocklea, Queensland, ABS Trailquip serves as a wholesaler and retailer of trucking componentry as well as a manufacturer of special application axles and suspension systems.

Improving its product range and emphasising the benefits of using heavy vehicle equipment that is efficient and safe to use has always been the core value of the ABS Trailquip team.

Expanding its product port-

folio, ABS Trailquip recently introduced an industry-first safety stand for tipper bodies that is designed to prevent accidental harm and injuries.

“Users can place it between the raised tipper body and vehicle chassis to prevent the tipper body from unintentionally coming down and causing serious injury to people working on the vehicle,” said ABS Trailquip director Michael Green.

“Engineers and mechanics are always scrambling to get chokes to put in between a raised tipper body and vehicle chassis before working on it. This is a purpose built product for this application and it will give the people working on the vehicle a peace of mind knowing that a proper safety stand is in place to hold

the tipper body.

“The tipper safety stand is 100 per cent made in Australia and has been tested to satisfy the relevant Australian Standards. The tipper safety stand is adjustable to suit most tipper body beam sizes. It also has a safety chain attachment to prevent the stand from sliding out. As these units are made locally, stock availability is never an issue.”

With more than 30 years of experience in the air brake business, Green strives to provide quality truck and trailer products to Australian operators. The business adds value to commercial vehicle builds with the parts it supplies while ensuring drivers are using equipment that champions optimal road safety.

“When dealing with us

be assured we know and understand the industry, having many years of experience,” he said.

“Australia has the world’s harshest trucking environment, which assures our over-

seas customers that our products are the toughest and will go the extra mile.”

ABS Trailquip is a fully committed organisation when it comes to quality, price, service and delivery. It is an ISO

9001 certified company and even has its own in-house quality control system. The business is also certified to supply parts that conform to Australian Design Rules (ADR Specification).

The tipper safety stand is adjustable to suit most tipper body beam sizes.

The safety stand has been tested to meet the relevant Australian Standards.

It has a safety chain attachment to prevent the stand from sliding out.

BTS 2023 WRAP-UP

REDARC applauds Brisbane following a successful show

WITH the largest ever-display of trucks and a record crowd, it was a busy four days for the REDARC team. Brisbane Truck Show 2023 saw REDARC staff across multiple departments including sales managers, engineers and product development from around Australia arrive in Brisbane to showcase our award-winning RedVision Vehicle Management System.

Speaking at the event, REDARC’s general manager of sales – global OEM, Sascha Heib said: “It was fantastic to catch up with current customers as well as potential customers interested in the RedVision System. Our new interactive display was a fantastic tool in easily communicating the benefits of the RedVision system and looked great on the stand.”

Featuring a first of its kind specially built interactive display, the REDARC site proved to be quite the attraction for drivers and fleet owners alike. Designed to demonstrate the features of the RedVision System in a trucking capacity, the interactive display featured model trucks for which their tippers, lights and accessories could all be controlled.

Simplify your trucking experience and eliminate flat batteries. REDARC’s award-winning RedVision system combines smart battery management and centralised accessory control in

THANK YOU BRISBANE.

one powerful package, keeping your drivers powered for longer and in control of their electrical system.

The RedVision system offers complete control of all powered

OUR NEW INTERACTIVE DISPLAY WAS A FANTASTIC TOOL IN EASILY COMMUNICATING THE BENEFITS OF THE REDVISION SYSTEM AND  ED EAT N THE STAND.”

SASCHA HEIB

kettle or TV, so it’s easier than ever for drivers to keep track of everything their system is doing, no matter where they are around the truck.

tures, and make sure there is plenty of charge in the batteries. RedVision also features digital inputs that allows drivers to configure their system to switch some or all output loads on and off automatically when triggered, saving precious battery power.

Often utilised as a safety feature, RedVision can be integrated with sensors and cab lighting to ensure the vehicle is adequately protected against potential intruders and vandals. RedVision can also be wired to have digital inputs trigger with the truck lights to turn on additional rear facing lighting, allowing for enhanced visibility when reversing or loading.

appliances in the truck. With a user-friendly interface designed around convenience, RedVision can be easily configured to control and monitor 12V devices including a microwave,

Featuring a cab mounted RedVision Display, get live monitoring of the auxiliary battery system including state of charge and power draw, so your driver can stay on top of their power needs while enroute. While the RedVision phone app promotes the safe operation of external accessories such as lights and hydraulic tippers.

With the ability to add a range of sensors, use RedVision to check the outside tempera-

Whether you’re preparing for the next day, or safely operating external accessories such as lights and hydraulic tippers, control is at your fingertips.

Made in Australia and backed by a hassle-free warranty and in-house technical support, take control of your truck’s power by getting in touch with the team on phone 08 8322 4848.

For more information, visit the REDARC website redarc. com.au/redvision-trucks.

REDVISION VEHICLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

With the largest ever-display of trucks and a record crowd, it was a busy four days for the REDARC team as they showcased our award-winning RedVision Vehicle Management System.

Combining smart battery management and centralised accessory control in one powerful package, RedVision eliminates flat start batteries and reduces downtime. Whether you’re preparing for the next day, or safely operating external accessories such as lights and hydraulic tippers, control is at your fingertips.Didn’t catch us in Brisbane? Take control of your truck’s power by visiting the link below!

REDARC.COM.AU/REDVISION-TRUCKS

LEARN MORE

The REDARC team at the Brisbane Truck Show.

Lightforce Viper lights up the dark

PROLIFIC Australian automotive-lighting manufacturer

Lightforce has launched its new range of Viper Light Bars.

The Viper range is offered in a variety of configurations to meet all automotive needs, from weekend adventure and hunting through to commercial long-haul road transport.

It’s claimed to offer unrivalled capability, sleek design, easier installation, improved features and a performance improvement of 25 per cent compared to previous models –all with 25 per cent less weight and a recommended retail price (RRP) up to 40 per cent lower than the previous generation.

Lightforce has been at the forefront of automotive and hunting lighting for more than 35 years and exports its products to more than 50 countries internationally.

The introduction of the Viper range follows several years of state-of-the-art research and development by Lightforce’s experienced in-house engineers and designers, who were tasked with producing a range of LED light bars as formidable as its namesake.

Lightforce product manager Haydn Ryan said the design of the Viper range was a real head-turner.

“The new design has that ‘factory’ look we feel that our customers are asking for,” said

AND INCREDIBLY CAPABLE AT THE SAME TIME. WE HAVE WORKED WITH OUR PARTNERS FROM OVERSEAS TO ENSURE

Ryan.

“The entire range is slimmer, lighter and beautifully designed, elegant yet rugged and incredibly capable at the same time. We have worked with our partners from overseas to ensure a premium product.”

The Viper range not only looks good due to a screwless, modern front-bezel design but is claimed to deliver best-inclass performance thanks to an average increase in light output of 25 per cent.

At the bottom end of the range, the modest 6-inch Single Row Viper Light Bar produces a thoroughly impressive beam length of up to 256m at one lux and it only gets better with other light-bar configurations in the range, which include

both single-row and dual-row configurations claimed to offer industry leading visibility.

The 20-inch Single Row Viper Light Bar, expected to be popular with weekend adventurers, offers a beam length of 562m at one lux, 160m more than its predecessor.

At the heavy-duty end of the range, the 50-inch Dual Row Viper Light Bar’s capability stretches just beyond a kilometre at 1065m. The range also includes a 6-inch and 10inch single-row amber light bar designed for dusty conditions or camping environments. The amber colour reduces the amount of bugs and insects when outdoors compared to a white LED.

Ryan added that improved safety was another key goal during the development of the Viper range. “Each light bar projects a reduced 5500k colour temperature, which is associated with better all-round visibility and reduced driver

fatigue,” he said. “The reduced colour temperature also means there is less glare and reflection against road signs and in foggy and dewy driving conditions, which can make boosted illumination unpleasant in some circumstances. The Viper range is a real pleasure to use.”

Rugged usability has also been enhanced through a marine-grade powder-coat finish courtesy of the industry-leading AkzoNobel application, which is tested to Australian standard AS1580 and therefore UV resistant and impervious to salt spray. The polycarbonate lens is also claimed to make Viper light bars less prone to scratching and damage than other light bars.

Lightforce said it focused extensively on installation factors when developing the new bars. Each Viper light bar comes with its own free ‘smart harness’, which comprises a unique bridge rectifier.

“This is a unique feature

that allows our Viper range to be fitted more easily to even the most recently introduced vehicle models,” said Ryan. “The harness also has an eight-pin switch connector, making it super easy to plug and play into a range of vehicle-specific Lightforce switches for that very popular factory look, which is what we have achieved in the entirety of the range’s design.”

The Viper range includes 304-grade stainless-steel side brackets – an improvement

on the mild-steel units used by some light bars. All Viper light bars feature Osram Oslon LEDs and are waterproof to one metre, having been fitted with a genuine Gore breather. Radio interference is also significantly reduced, which is ideal for AM or UHF radio users.

The Viper Light Bar range is available now.

For more information contact Lightforce on 1800 030 308, email sales@lightforce. com or visit au.lightforce.com.

The amber light bar is designed for dusty conditions or camping environments.

Viper products make the road ahead 25 per cent brighter.

THE ENTIRE RANGE IS SLIMMER, LIGHTER AND BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED, ELEGANT YET RUGGED

Filtration training, designed to suit your needs

THE filtration industry can be a complicated one. On top of this, with the rapid technological changes, what you knew yesterday may no longer be relevant. So with that, staying up to date with the latest news and changes in the industry is imperative, so you and your business can stay ahead of the curve and grow your bottom line.

Fortunately, Fleetguard offers partners comprehensive training to move your business in filtration further on the road. Working with our delivery partners, we provide flexible options to help you maximise your learning potential. No matter what option you choose, you will find

a flexible training experience, helping support your business growth and profitability.

For those interested in a broad overview of issues within the filtration industry, our webinar series offers flexible learning perfect for group sessions. We make both basic and advanced filtration knowledge accessible and can customise our webinar sessions to suit your and your team’s interests. Whether you’re a dealer or a customer, we ensure comprehensive training tailored to suit your needs – plus, all of our past webinars are stored in our online library for easy reference after the sessions.

If you’re looking for a

more traditional education pathway, we’ve got you covered there, too. Fleetschool offers you the chance to earn your degree in filtration.

As a student, you’ll be on the cusp of the changes afoot in the industry, keeping up-to-date of key developments in filtration technology. Fleetschool is a free online training program that lets you self-guide through training modules, covering a heap of industry-related issues. Want to go from a filtration trainee to a filtration expert? Look no further; with short tutorials, self-assessments and online course monitoring, Fleetschool is ready to help you move your

business forward.

When it comes to filtration products, the Fleetguard website is your onestop shop, with up-to-date information on all of our products on offer. You can narrow your search for the perfect part through our localised parts search and cross-reference features, stay in the loop on new product releases, read up on parts and brush up on safety data. And, while you’re there, why not subscribe to our eNewsletter at fleetguard.com.

“For those who are ready to level-up their filtration training, Fleetguard onsite training is unmatched,” said Fleetguard’s technical man-

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DIG DEEPER THAN ANYONE ELSE IN THE MARKET TO SHARE WITH OUR PARTNERS THE LATEST INFORMATION ON DIFFERENT ENGINE FILTRATION TECHNOLOGIES.”

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ager, Kevin Wilkinson. “Our Fleetguard representatives dig deeper than anyone else in the market to share with

our partners the latest information on different engine filtration technologies so that we can help filtration trainees become experts.”

If you’re interested in onsite training, get in touch with your local Fleetguard account manager. And if a self-paced, online option appeals to you more, register at fleetschool.com to get started! Regardless of which path you choose, custom knowledge pathways are easier than ever before. When your team is knowledgeable about filtration technology, everyone benefits. Choose your path from one of our popular training routes, and begin your filtration journey today.

ON-ROAD

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How this second generation Kununurra business thrives

FOR close to 50 years, Kununurra based JSW Holdings has been tackling the challenging landscape in this beautiful and remote part of the world.

Owner operator Peter Woodhead has continued the business his father started in 1975. Originally centred around the manufacture of bricks, JSW expanded the scope of their products and services over the years, with concrete, plant hire, civil contracts and aggregate supply forming the main part of their business offering today.

For three decades, UD Trucks have been a mainstay of the fleet, with the first UD-branded truck purchased by the business still in its possession.

“We’ve got a UD CW 40 out the back. It’s a 1983 model and it’s the first UD we bought,” said Woodhead.

“It was purchased as a sixwheel tipper. The customer decided they wanted to go to ‘semi’, so it was converted to a prime mover and towed a bogie tipper around for probably five years of its life and then as things got bigger, we converted it back to a tipper.”

JSW currently has five UD Trucks in the fleet but

over the course of their business has purchased 10 UD trucks in total.

When recalling the UD Trucks that JSW has owned over the years, Woodhead reminisced on the early days, all the way back to the mid-70s where it all began.

“It was my old man on his own and once myself and my brother left high school, we joined the busi-

ness and basically built it up from there. From a couple of trucks and a loader to a fairly substantial fleet that is now,” he said.

Woodhead explained just how desolate and challenging the conditions have been over the years and how critical UD’s reliable and robust vehicles are to the JSW operation.

“Probably the biggest

pressure is our isolation with part supply and getting and keeping things running. Obviously needing to have a backup of parts. People are also a big shortage, I know we’re not alone with that but it’s pretty hard to entice people to come up and live in extreme conditions at the moment,” he said.

“During winter it’s beautiful up here, with nice 25–30-degree days. But

from November until April it’s 40 degrees, wet and an afternoon shower can see 25-50ml of rainfall. Roads become impassable, so we’ve got to be careful where we go and don’t go depending on the time of year.

“The distance we travel annually varies due to the kind of work that we do, but it can range from 100,000km to 250,000km. Engine hours are probably

UD Trucks: 50 years in Australia and counting

FROM UD’s founding father, Kenzo Adachi’s pursuit of ‘ultimate dependability’ more than 85 years ago in Japan, UD says it’s extremely humbling for the brand to see its vision and mission remain as strong as ever in Australia since 1973.

The UD CK40 was the first model to hit Australia’s roads in 1973, and the decades to follow would see countless innovations including, among others, the re-

time, the world’s first commercialised radar laser collision prevention system, and the world’s first selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system– a technology that revolutionised the industry’s emission reduction journey.

“We are so proud to be celebrating our 50 years here in Australia during this year’s truck show. We would like to extend our gratitude to all of our customers, dealers and partners for

“It is an incredibly exciting time be leading a brand here in Australia that has an ambition not to just make better products for our industry, but to make the industry better through its products.”

HeavyLoadSafetyMats

more. It’s a lot of work off road on dirt roads so we generally reach speeds of 4050km per hour.”

But despite the locational challenges, Woodhead said that his UD Trucks have provided a solid and reliable platform to keep JSW running and with minimum downtime.

“Our business was built on them,” explained Woodhead.

The founding father of UD Trucks, Kenzo Adachi.

Peter Woodhead behind the wheel of a 1983 UD CW 40 that still operates within the fleet today.

The UD Quon with the new and improved 11L engine and safety enhancements.

Owner of Kununurra based operation JSW Holdings, Peter Woodhead.

SINCE going live in January 2023, Loadlink has accumulated over 250 registered users, with new businesses joining the Loadlink family each day.

Managing director at Loadlink Australia, Anthony Kosseris, says the online platform was developed to create a more direct connection between those wanting goods carried and the ones who have the capabilities to carry them, cutting out the middle-man.

It’s an Australian haulage marketplace connecting shippers and carriers, allowing them to exchange goods and services efficiently and transparently.

Kosseris says Loadlink was created to make finding freight and listing loads easier and more streamlined than ever before. And being at the helm of his own Gold Coast based transport business, he knows the industry and knows it well.

“My dad is in trucks too, so I’m second generation. We run our own separate business – he’s 70 years old and still running

trucks. When I was born, he was away interstate in a truck, so I was literally crawling over trucks from when I was a baby. I’ve always been involved in trucks in some way or another,” Kosseris explained.

“When I’m not in the office making this system go, I’m in the workshop, under the hood, working on the trucks, or in the warehouse loading our trucks, trying to make a go of it all in the transport industry. So Loadlink has been designed by Australian transport operators for the transport industry. We’re busy every day attracting more shippers to the platform, and likewise more carriers.

“There are lots of other platforms out there that have changed their direction, which hasn’t benefitted the carrier. I’m a transport operator and I’ve been in transport all of my life. I run my own trucks every day in a separate business to this, so I know what it’s like out there.”

Since its launch in January, Loadlink has continued to grow

and evolve, with more and more features added as time goes on. Among these is Loadlink’s load matching algorithm that can connect shippers and carriers automatically online.

Another exciting feature is the carrier profile page, where carriers can create an online profile showcasing their transport business. They can also store truck types and configurations for easy load matching and future repeat business.

“We’ve added some pretty cool features to Loadlink, with the load matching function launched during May. As a carrier, you can easily list where your truck is going to be and when,” Kosseris said.

“For example, if your truck is going to be in Rockhampton on Tuesday next week and you don’t have a load to carry back or you have available space on your trailers, Loadlink can match you with the loads that are available in that area, at that time. It eliminates the need for you to trawl through listings

to find a load. It then puts the shippers and carriers in contact with each other. That’s one feature we have that we know no one else is yet doing.”

Providing the most advanced online transportation marketplace, Loadlink is making load transport easier and more efficient. “We also have many other new and exciting features we are building in the background which will be launched in coming months,” Kosseris revealed.

As a transport operator himself, managing director at Loadlink Australia, Anthony Kosseris, knows the industry and he knows it well.

I’M A TRANSPORT OPERATOR AND I’VE BEEN IN TRANSPORT ALL OF MY LIFE. I RUN MY OWN TRUCKS EVERY DAY IN A SEPARATE BUSINESS TO THIS, SO I KNOW WHAT IT’S LIKE OUT THERE.”

ANTHONY KOSSERIS

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All the tools in one place

BY his own admission, veteran Queensland transport operator Chris Dryden is no expert when it comes to modern software solutions in road transport.

But when the creators of new driver management tool SAFVER – a blend of safe and driver – came to him asking for his input, he jumped at the chance to get involved.

With 43 years of experience in the industry, the boss at M&C Logistics could see the gap in the market for a tool like this to help owner-drivers.

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Dryden, who was won over by the passion that the creators, brothers Sourabh and

Gourav Vachher, had for their platform.

“It’s a one-stop-shop for everything from pre-starts, medicals, BFM certificates, compliance, driver training, you name it.

“I can see that once it’s up and running, big companies saying that they don’t have to worry about training new drivers because they’ll know they’ve already done the proper training through SAFVER on things like load restraint.”

Dryden, who will soon start teaching load restraint workshops on the platform, says SAFVER is incredibly easy to use.

“It provides all the tools we need to ensure compliance and safety. From driver profiles to training modules, SAFVER has made our operations more efficient and streamlined.”

Dryden’s driver Barry Rose, another with more than four decades behind the wheel, has been an early adopter, trialling SAFVER on his regular runs to Mackay as a subbie for Team Global.

“Barry is using it on a tablet and loves it,” Dryden said.

“He mostly uses it for his BFM and for his weights, CML, pre-starts, trip costs, fuel…it’s getting him used to the future, and it’s easier.”

Dryden believes the simplified driver management solution will be an indispensable tool for newcomers who often don’t keep a close enough eye on the bottom line.

“Just take tolls for instance. A lot of people go through them and take them for granted. But with SAFVER, it adds them up and at the end of the day, you can see how much you’ve spent and how much fuel you’ve gone through.”

SAFVER director Sourabh Vachher has a long history in education and IT and could see the need for a simplified management solution after launching his own transport company, the Rocklea-based QLD Freight Logistics.

He was especially keen to find a way to improve and verify the skill sets of newly licenced drivers.

Sourabh said too many drivers are dissuaded from upskilling at institutes by the time and money involved.

“They won’t want to take a day off, they don’t like it.”

He said SAFVER, developed in partnership with his engineering brother Gourav over more than two years, can bridge that gap with its suite of free training tools, including toolbox tips from the National Road Safety Partnership Program. SAFVER also offers free biweekly live non-accredited training sessions, all designed to help drivers stay up to date on the latest safety and compliance regulations and best practices.

“I realised that drivers don’t have time to do certification like Cert 4 qualification to be professional, so using SAFVER in day to day activities makes them more professional,” Sourabh said.

“Job ads can also be placed on SAFVER, which provides a platform to companies and drivers to connect and make the hiring process easy. Companies can see drivers’ profiles in Safver which includes traffic history and police check,” Sourabh said.

“If you hire a driver through us, they can start work the next

day because everything is done and sorted.”

The Vachhers stress that SAFVER is more about making the industry safer and more professional than a money-making venture.

Access is free for the wage-earning truckie, and a

nominal $17 per week for the owner-drivers to reflect the added data storage needed.

“It’s customisable too, depending on what type of management you want,” Dryden added.

For more information, visit safver.com.au.

Truckie Barry Rose is already seeing the benefits of using SAFVER.

A one-stop-shop for every truckie and owner-driver.

Boasting superior lighting performance

WHEN it comes to driving a big rig, safety is paramount. One important aspect of staying safe on the road is having reliable lighting that

provides excellent visibility for an improved night-driving experience.

Established in 2010, Lazer Lamps has been at the

forefront of auxiliary LED lighting from their UK-based head office and production facility. Having firmly established themselves as market leaders within the European market, they are now pushing in Australia through their sales office in Adelaide, and with comprehensive stock held in Canberra.

Forefront in the product range is the Sentinel range of 9” round LED lamps. These lamps are designed with the specific needs of heavy-duty vehicles in mind, and offer superior lighting performance that can help prevent accidents and keep you safe. One of the standout features of the Sentinel range is its combination beam pattern; the LED and optic design provides a broad beam pattern that illuminates a wide area in front of your vehicle (52 degrees), with unmatched long-range visibility (1 lux from a pair of Sentinel 9” Elite stretch to over 1km). This means that you can see more of the road, and have an earlier and better view of potential hazards, making it easier to avoid accidents and stay safe.

Of course, safety is not the only consideration when it comes to choosing a lighting solution for your truck. You also need a lamp that is durable and reliable, and that can withstand the harsh conditions that heavy-duty vehicles face on a daily basis. Once again, the Sentinel range delivers. These lamps are built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand extreme temperatures, heavy vibrations, and other challenges of the road. The lamps are made from only the highest quality materials; as examples, metal work within the lamps’ design is fully resistant to corrosion thanks

to Lazer’s in-house paint shop, while the polycarbonate lens on the lamps comes with a hard-coat to prevent against discolouration and scratches, and has a lifetime guarantee –if it cracks or breaks, Lazer will replace your light!

With the Sentinel range, you get a lighting solution that is both reliable and durable, backed up by their comprehensive five-year warranty.

In conclusion, the Sentinel range of lights from Lazer Lamps is an excellent choice for any big rig driver looking for a lighting solution that offers superior visibility, durability, and versatility. It’s not

the only option mind you, their range also includes LED light bars and work lights, all produced to the same high standards and specifications from their UK factory. With its broad spread beam and consistent illumination, the Sentinel range provides the visibility you need to stay safe on the road in low-light conditions. And with its rugged construction, you can be sure that you’re getting a lighting solution that is both reliable and customisable. If you’re in the market for a new lighting solution, contact your local Kenworth, Volvo or Scania supplier for more details.

Sentinel lights are built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand extreme temperatures, heavy vibrations and other challenges of the road.

Light the road with the Sentinel Range: Unleash superior visibility, durability and versatility for big rig drivers.

Innovating efficiency: WHG Asset Manager leads way

IN today’s fast-paced and competitive business landscape, efficient asset management is crucial for success. Regardless of the industry, managing assets effectively can lead to improved productivity, reduced costs and enhanced operational efficiency. WHG Asset Manager, an innovative software suite developed by WHG, under the guidance of Calvin Hartley, director of IT digital transformation, is transforming the way businesses handle their assets.

Every industry, from technology to logistics, relies on assets to operate smoothly. Inefficient asset management can result in wasted time, increased expenses, poor utilisation, missed maintenance and lost opportunities. Recognising this universal need, WHG Asset Manager offers a comprehensive suite of tools and functionalities to address asset management challenges across the board, digitising assets and streamlining management processes.

WHG Asset Manager is a revolutionary solution that significantly improves asset management efficiency. From managing and maintaining tools, pumps and generators to overseeing fleets of laptops, vehicles, properties or construction equipment, as well as running full-scale warehouse operations, this versatile software suite accommodates a diverse range of assets across various industries. Its modular design empowers businesses to customise the software according to their specific needs, ensuring a tailored and optimised as-

set management experience. Capturing data like expense and licence management, warranty and service management, asset location and movement data, asset documentation, guides, checklists, and offering GPS integration, this software seamlessly integrates with third-party hardware and software.

One of the key benefits of WHG Asset Manager is its ability to optimise operations

and reduce costs. Real-time asset tracking and location services allow businesses to monitor and manage their assets efficiently. Whether it’s a fleet of vehicles, warehouse equipment or a portfolio of laptops, WHG Asset Manager ensures that assets are utilised effectively, minimising downtime and maximising productivity. Moreover, the expense and licence manage-

ment functionalities provide valuable insights to control costs and ensure compliance. WHG Asset Manager empowers businesses by providing them with accurate and up-to-date asset information. Through integration with Internet of Things (IoT) devices and GPS Tracking Hardware systems, the software allows for customised solutions tailored to specific industry needs. Mobile appli-

cations and web portals offer easy access to asset information, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and improve overall efficiency.

WHG Asset Manager’s importance becomes evident when examining the alarming statistics surrounding asset loss in Australia. According to the Telyste Telstra Track and Monitor Study, each year sees around $930m in loss of shipping equipment and mobile storage, $880m in IT equipment, and $708m in vehicles. These staggering figures highlight the urgent need for a robust asset management solution like WHG Asset Manager to mitigate losses, enhance asset visibility, and optimise resource allocation.

“Through the implementation of WHG Asset Manager, businesses have achieved remarkable success in mitigating losses by improving asset visibility, implementing robust tracking measures, and streamlining preventive maintenance protocols,” affirms Hartley.

“By leveraging this inno-

vative solution, companies can proactively safeguard their valuable assets and significantly minimise the financial impact caused by these unfortunate occurrences.”

WHG Asset Manager has solidified its position as a trusted authority in the industry. Businesses across Australia and beyond have witnessed remarkable improvements, from gaining complete asset visibility to making informed decisions and unlocking the true potential of their assets. With its continuous innovation and commitment to customer success, WHG Asset Manager paves the way for efficient and effective asset management, delivering tangible results for businesses across various industries.

To explore how we can help your business, talk to the team today.

For more information, call 1800 474 387 or email sales@whgsolutions.team.

Source: Telsyte Telstra Track and Monitor Study 2019.

WHG Asset Manager: Digitise your assets and streamline management processes.

BUSINESSES HAVE ACHIEVED REMARKABLE SUCCESS IN MITIGATING LOSSES BY IMPROVING ASSET VISIBILITY, IMPLEMENTING ROBUST TRACKING MEASURES, AND STREAMLINING PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE PROTOCOLS.”

CALVIN HARTLEY

First Australian order placed for Volvo FMX Electric

QUEENSLAND Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has placed the first Australian order for the Volvo FMX Electric, which will join its 500-strong truck fleet.

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan, was pleased to announce the news.

“QFES has a fleet of 500 heavy vehicles and the time is right to add electric trucks to the mix. I’m positive these vehicles will add tremendous value to the organisation, and I can’t wait to see them on the road,” he said.

“As well as reducing noise pollution and improving air quality, there’s also the financial benefit to Queensland taxpayers too, as electric trucks bring lower running costs.”

QFES has also ordered a Volvo FMX 6x4 prime mover with the latest 13-litre Euro 6 technology. This vehicle will operate alongside the fully electric model to assess the performance and emissions benefits of running on fossil-fuel-free Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil

(HVO) against diesel.

Martin Merrick, president of Volvo Group Australia commented, “Electric trucks will bring lower running costs and lower emissions while making our cities and urban environment a better place to live and work. We’re pleased to see QFES investing in its first order of safer and greener transport.

“No one can get to zero emissions on their own – we need to do it in partnership. Industry, government and other stakeholders all have a responsibility to work together to reduce emissions. Volvo is committed to partnering with Australian industry to decarbonise heavy transport. That’s evident in the world-leading electric trucks, technology and global experience we are making available to the Australian market,” he continued.

According to QFES acting commissioner, Mike Wassing, the logistics fleet was identified as the best place to trial the electric technology.

“That fleet has a pivotal

part to play in QFES, ensuring operational crews are fully supported in a timely manner when undertaking critical logistics delivery runs,” he said.

“This a momentous occasion and a tremendous opportunity for QFES and the firefighters who can utilise these state-of-the-art vehicles.”

The vehicles being acquired by QFES will be used to measure the benefits of both fully

electric heavy vehicles and the application of alternative fuels such as HVO to vehicles with the latest Euro 6 diesel engine technology.

Both Volvo vehicles will operate under QFES command and provide operational logistics across the regions. End-user feedback and real-time operational performance will be monitored with the support of Volvo Connect telematics.

Innovation seen as the key to Highly Automated Driving

AUTOMATED Driving is a growing trend, driven by cost reduction targets, driver shortages, and rising demand for transport services.

Knorr-Bremse’s modular Highly Automated Driving (HAD) portfolio ranges from Minimal Risk Manoeuvre through to Mission Complete products.

Knorr-Bremse is systematically pursuing the development HAD systems. By preference, the company says HAD development projects take the form of partnerships

with specialists. Tried and tested expertise in vehicle dynamics (including driver assistance and high-availability braking and steering systems) puts Knorr-Bremse in an ideal position to support such projects.

Bernd Spies, member of the executive board of KnorrBremse AG and responsible for the Commercial Vehicle Systems division, regards the Automated Driving industry trend as one of the top development priorities for OEMs.

“As a technology leader

in driver assistance systems, including brake control and many others, Knorr-Bremse has an absolute understanding of the specific vehicle dynamics of commercial vehicles.

This has resulted in a broad range of driver assistance solutions, right through to the systems that make Highly Automated Driving possible,” explained Spies.

“This focus on innovation is firmly embedded in our R&D roadmap, making us the ideal systems partner for Highly Automated Driving development programs.”

Knorr-Bremse

[L-R] Mark Ryan, Adam Stevenson, Roger Alm, Martin Merrick and Per-Erik Lindström. Photo: Volvo Group

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan, in a Volvo FM Electric Truck at the Brisbane Truck Show.

PBS VEHICLES ARE DESIGNED TO MEET THE INDIVIDUAL NEEDS OF OPERATORS AND THE TYPES OF GOODS BEING TRANSPORTED. THIS MEANS THEY ARE TAILORED TO THE SPECIFIC OPERATION, ALLOWING FOR IMPROVED EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY.

Collaborating for improved safety and productivity

THIS year’s Brisbane Truck Show was not only the biggest on record, but NHVR also had its largest presence to date taking on three separate displays to take advantage of the opportunity to engage with our key stakeholders across the four days.

Our commitment to build strong and respected relationships with industry as well as local and state governments helps us stay connected and informed on the challenges and opportunities that are facing the heavy vehicle supply chain, and provides the opportunity to work collaboratively to deliver improved safety and productivity outcomes.

Seeing the enormous effort put in by the Brisbane Truck Show organisers as well as the attendees and display owners this year was an absolute credit

to the industry as a whole.

From our end our NHVR displays saw thousands of industry, government and general community engagement with extensive conversations across an array of topics.

Our main NHVR display was staffed by a cross section of our subject matter experts who were on hand to talk through any questions or topics around fatigue management, productivity improvements, general compliance enquires such as mass, dimension, load restraint

Caterpillar / Kenworth T600

ELECTRONIC WITH 40 PIN ECM

The Caterpillar 3176 diesel engine is a 10.3 litre displacement engine developed primarily for heavy-duty on-highway truck applications.

CAT 3176 comes in different power bands between 250HP-351HP.

as well as access permits, vehicle standards, and more.

In particular, we had some great conversations around the interpretation of notices and working with road managers for access decisions.

For our second display, we partnered with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) to discuss enforcement and road safety.

The issue of road safety is everyone’s responsibility and during the event, we received some great insights from industry on their experiences

behind the wheel. We thank QPS for collaborating with us for the event, to improve road safety for all road users.

The third display gave industry an up-close look at how we are reaching young drivers at the beginning of their driving journey, with our important safety message - Don’t #uck With A Truck.

Inside the Don’t #uck With A Truck trailer, attendees tested our virtual reality (VR) immersion experience used to educate Learner and Provisional licence holders on the challenges truck

drivers face when cars drive up the inside lane of a turning truck, pull in front of a truck or don’t apply patience when overtaking a truck.

We also showcased content from our second phase of the campaign Don’t Truck It Up, where a scrap metal claw, sledgehammer and slingshot destroy popular objects in a young person’s life, such as mobile phones and gaming consoles, to show how quickly crashes can occur if they don’t follow the rules around driving safely around trucks. A special

thank you to Kenny Easter from Easters Transport for providing a trailer for this display.

The response to each of our displays was very positive and it was great to see so many familiar faces engaging with our staff and sharing their experiences. We look forward to building on these strong partnerships further in the months to come.

A big congratulations to everyone involved in the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show and I look forward to doing it all again in 2025.

CAT 3176 is one of the more fuel-efficient in its class. Its four-stroke-cycle, in-line engine with electronically controlled injection is controlled by a 40 pin engine control module (ECM).

Injectronics has discovered a common problem between the Jake wiring and fuel injector wiring. We advised that technicians inspect the plug-in on the Jake spacer where the engine wiring connects and where the harness wraps around the fount of the engine, near the clutch fan for any issues. This needs to be done before diagnosing the ECM for a no start or loss of programming/memory faults.

However, if ECM loses its programming while the vehicle has quality batteries and no wiring issues, it may have a failing internal component and Injectronics can happily assist further.

The third display gave industry an up-close look at how the NHVR is reaching young drivers.

he main display as staffed by a cross section of sub ect matter experts.

ECM3176REP

Record turnout in Brisbane

transportwomen.com.au.

NOW we have the Brisbane Truck Show behind us with a record crowd both at the show and at the Transport Women Australia Limited breakfast on the Friday morning.

The breakfast hosted by Coralie Chapman, Simone Reinertsen from the TWAL board and our incredible volunteers, which always includes the Manton family, and was an outstanding success with many reaching out to congratulate us on the event.

This breakfast has become a highlight and major event on the TWAL calendar and our vice chair Coralie Chapman has set her sights high for another record crowd in 2025.

In the meantime, we have events coming up at CeMat in Sydney in July with TWAL taking part on ghe main stage, as a panellist and hosting our own event during the show on July 26. To obtain information on how to attend, check out our social media or contact events@

We will be at the Alexandra Truck Show on June 13 with Coralie as a presenter on the program for the day and I will be speaking at the Victoria Transport Infrastructure Conference on June 21. Our theme song Living the Dream has been short-listed for the 2022 Australian Songwriting Awards for creator Dene Menzel, of Branthem, which is super exciting.

We are in the process of planning our events for the remainder of the year, with our EOY function dates set, we will be holding some Learning Initiative Breakfasts in the next few months. If you are interested in sponsoring or hosting one of these Breakfasts, please contact chair@ transportwomen.com.au

We have our Transport Women Unite Red Ball during the Festival of Transport at Alice Springs as well as our annual TWAL breakfast.

Bookings can be made the Hall of Fame website. We also have nominations arriving for our Dream Maker Award. Nominations Forms are available through the Hall of Fame website or by contacting chair@transportwomen. com.au.

We have our four finalists and their families attending the Women in Industry

Awards dinner and we are praying for a great result.

Plans are underway for the 2024 conference with the venue to be announced shortly. It will be held from May 30 to June 1, 2024. We have the amazing Melissa Strong confirmed as our MC again after the outstanding job she did last year.

Sponsorship opportunities and packages will be available soon and anyone interested can contact chair@transportwomen.com.au or phone 0417 422 319.

We have also set the date for our 25th Anniversary celebrations as November 16, 2024, so get ready to party.

This will be a more relaxed setting than our 20th anniversary gala dinner but will be sure to be just as much fun with great music and food, and excellent company.

During the first half of this year, we have worked with making new partnership to support our programs and mission.

If you are interested in partnering with Transport Women Australia Limited or want to increase your support through a partnership program, please reach out via chair@transportwomen.com. au, our website, transportwomen.com.au, or call me on 0417 422 319.

GEARBOX & DIFFS

This Brisbane Truck Show breakfast has become a highlight and major event on the TWAL calendar.

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT JACQUELENE BROTHERTON

Chair of Transport Women Australia

Don’t forget bridges in $2.8 billion road repair spend

industries, enabling them to e ciently access domestic and international markets.

Strengthening the infrastructure along these routes, particularly bridges, is essential to uphold the integrity of our supply chains.

ments will enhance e ciency, reduce congestion, and facilitate smoother movement of goods throughout the state.

THE VTA commended the Victorian Government on its commitment to road maintenance and renewal, as well as ood recovery works, outlined in the recent Victorian budget.

We’re urging it to prioritise the strengthening and upgrading of bridges on the state’s freight network as part of its $2.8 billion investment in road transport infrastructure because bolstering key freight-intense bridges, Victoria can enhance its transport infrastructure and ensure sustained economic growth.

Our regional freight routes play a vital role in connecting rural areas to metropolitan centres, facilitating the transportation of goods that fuel our economy. ese routes are the lifelines of agriculture, manufacturing, and other

Treasurer Tim Pallas’s ninth budget was delivered in the face of challenging economic circumstances that threaten growth and prosperity. Recognising the need to repay debt and safeguard the economy, the government has implemented savings and revenue measures. While these initiatives will aid economic recovery, it is vital that infrastructure investment continues, especially in transport, which is vital for driving commerce and supporting regional development.

We were pleased to note the government’s continued commitment to productivity-boosting programs in the transport industry. e allocation of $694 million for the upgrading of key roads and intersections, $62 million for local road upgrades, and $32 million for West Gate Bridge maintenance are commendable initiatives. ese invest-

However, to truly optimise Victoria’s freight network, attention must be directed towards strengthening bridges on freight routes. ese bridges serve as crucial links, enabling the smooth and safe passage of heavy vehicles and ensuring uninterrupted freight movement. Neglecting the condition of these structures could lead to disruptions, detours, and increased costs for the freight industry, hindering economic progress.

e VTA strongly urges the allocation of a portion of the $2.8 billion investment for bridge strengthening and upgrades. By doing so, the government will not only address immediate infrastructure needs but also create foundations for sustained economic growth. Stronger bridges will increase load capacities, reduce maintenance costs, enhance safety, and improve overall freight network connectivity.

Over the years, many bridges on regional freight routes have deteriorated from

Master Code Review

Safer systems for a safer workplace

aging and exposure to demands that go beyond their original design capacities. is poses signi cant safety risks for all road users and can lead to disruptions in freight movements. By investing in bridge strengthening, these safety concerns ca be addressed, mitigating the risk of accidents and minimising the potential for damage capital equipment and trauma to drivers.

While certain infrastructure programs are under review by the Commonwealth, it is gratifying to see the government’s commitment to vital projects such as the North East Link. e VTA has long

advocated for this project, and we were pleased to see a further allocation of $7.3 billion to ensure its completion, along with other Big Build projects. e government’s support for signi cant transport projects is a testament to its recognition of the industry’s contribution to Victoria’s economic prosperity.

Transport operators and the people they employ have shown remarkable resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges. roughout the pandemic, operators have maintained exceptional service levels, ensuring the timely delivery of goods to customers and consumers. e VTA

acknowledges and commends the operators for their unwavering commitment to upholding high standards, even in the most trying circumstances.

As Victoria looks towards economic recovery, it is essential that investments in transport infrastructure align with the needs of the freight industry. Strengthening and upgrading bridges on freight routes must be a priority within allocations for road maintenance and renewal. By fortifying these vital links, Victoria will foster e cient freight movement, support regional development, and lay the foundation for sustained economic growth. e task of strengthening bridges on regional freight routes cannot be achieved by government alone. It requires collaboration between elected o cials, industry stakeholders, and the local community. e VTA, along with its members, is committed to working hand in hand with all stakeholders to develop comprehensive strategies, share knowledge, and contribute to the successful completion of vital transport infrastructure.

The VTA is calling for the state government to prioritise the strengthening and upgrading of bridges on the state’s freight network. Photo: VicRoads/Facebook

The Master Code is a registered industry code of practice that was developed by the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) and Australian Logistics Council (ALC) in consultation with industry and registered by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) in November 2018. It is a practical guide to achieving the standards of heavy vehicle safety and compliance required under the HVNL and is an authoritative source of information about safety in the heavy vehicle transport industry.

Like other registered codes of practice, the Master Code is reviewed periodically to ensure that it stays up to date with industry changes and improvements to safety.

VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

Urgent reform still

THE transport industry is a critical component of the supply chain, responsible for the e cient movement of goods.

However, it is devastating to see that time and time again, the well-being and safety of truck drivers, who are the backbone of this industry, are often overlooked.

It is imperative for major companies within the trucking sector to recognize their responsibility to prioritise worker safety and urgently implement necessary reforms.

ere exists a pressing need for transformative changes that not only protect truck drivers but also enhance working conditions and foster a culture of safety within the trucking industry.

Truck drivers face numerous challenges and risks while performing their job. e long hours spent on the road, demanding schedules, and extended periods away from home contribute to physical and mental strain.

Fatigue, stress, and isolation are prevalent issues that can impair drivers’ performance and compromise road safety. It is high time for major companies to acknowledge these challenges and take proactive measures to improve working conditions for truck drivers.

Tragically, this year alone, we have witnessed 99 people losing their lives in truck-involved accidents on NSW roads, as of May 31, 2023.

Fatigue continues to be a signi cant concern within the trucking industry, directly impacting the safety of both drivers and other road users.

e relentless pressure exerted by major companies onto transport workers is nothing short of deadly.

Across the industry, profit-driven clients seek to narrow pro t margins as much as possible and sell contracts to

the lowest bidder. is forces transport operators to cut corners, ultimately resulting in preventable truck crashes and nancial ruin for these transport companies.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, we have initiated bargaining discussions with several major transport companies in NSW.

We rmly believe that reforming the transport industry requires collaborative e orts among major companies, industry associations, and regulatory bodies. It is crucial for these stakeholders to come together, establish industry-wide safety standards,

enforce stricter regulations, and ensure compliance across the board.

Major companies need to utilise their in uence and advocate for comprehensive safety reforms within the industry.

By doing so, they can play a pivotal role in promoting a culture of safety and accountability throughout the entire trucking sector. It is not only about adhering to regulations but also about going above and beyond to protect the lives and well-being of truck drivers.

Moreover, these reforms must address the underlying

systemic issues that perpetuate unsafe working conditions. Major companies need to reassess their business models and consider factors beyond mere pro t margins.

Emphasising the value of human life and prioritising worker safety should be at the forefront of their operations.

Implementing transformative changes within the trucking industry will require a multi-faceted approach. It entails investing in driver training programs that focus on safe driving techniques, defensive driving, and hazard recognition.

It also necessitates the in-

tegration of advanced safety technologies in trucks, such as collision avoidance systems, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning systems.

Collaboration between major companies, industry associations, and regulatory bodies is key to achieving these reforms.

By working together, we can establish a safer and more sustainable trucking industry that prioritises the well-being and safety of its workers. Let’s seize this opportunity to create lasting change and ensure a brighter future for truck drivers and road users alike.

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

Fatigue, stress, and isolation are prevalent issues that can impair drivers’ performance and compromise road safety.

Creating an inclusive environment

women trying to break into the industry.

PHONE calls from two distressed female drivers this week saw a significant deviation from my planned column topic.

Both are victims of workplace bullying and sexual harassment and both are feeling isolated, distressed and unsupported in their workplaces.

Their back stories are disappointingly all too common –with one who refused unwelcome sexual advances quickly finding herself on the outer with an egotistical boss; and the other daring to challenge a significant pay gap with senior management, who found herself on the receiving end of a brutal, widespread smear campaign orchestrated by her immediate boss, who’d put her on the lower pay rate.

We know breaking the glass bull-bar can be tough for

Today, through WiTA, female drivers have ready access to experienced female role models, mentors, support and advocacy. These women know they’re no longer alone – that they’re valued and part of a sisterhood of women networking online, or catching up at truck stops across the nation, paying it forward by listening to and supporting each other when needed.

Many are still fighting the outdated belief that they need to “grow a set” and learn to tolerate inappropriate behaviour if they want the be accepted in the industry.

This is but one of many barriers women face – barriers men don’t experience and therefore don’t fully grasp.

Men – for example – overwhelmingly don’t experience sexual harassment in the workplace. They’re also not subjected to gender bias, nor do they find themselves victim to personal vendettas resulting from spurned female sexual advances and injured egos.

The ‘boys’ aren’t overlooked for training opportunities in favour of female drivers,

they’re not paid less than their female colleagues for doing the same work, they don’t find themselves allocated menial work as retribution for daring to shun unwanted sexual advances and they’re not expected to toe some invisible misogynistic line.

In 21st century Australia, unacceptable behaviour such as this – behaviour that should’ve been left on a park bench somewhere in the 1950s – is still very much a part of the female story and journey.

The message from female drivers is clear: our shared future can only be written when both genders are afforded the same level of respect and we have one set of behaviours for both genders.

Progressive employers eager to benefit from the predicted influx of female drivers, will develop workplace cultures that promote openness, integrity, loyalty and respect.

They won’t let huge reserves of talent, skill and dedication slip through the cracks as can happen when unsupported female drivers give up and abandon their careers and dreams.

These employers will be critically aware that every

choice, every footprint and every action makes a difference – that every employment opportunity for female drivers is precious.

They recognise gender equality is not just a tick and flick. They recognise the need to ensure female-friendly workplace cultures are enshrined, instead of simply blindly pushing women through the company recruitment pipeline.

The key to lasting positive change in terms of industry attitude toward women is to create an inclusive environment – a female friendly culture shaped by leaders at all levels.

I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been told bullying and victimisation are an accepted part of road transport culture – a reality often accepted without question. The end game in challenging injustice is to bring about change and, as such, WiTA will continue its work to disrupt all systems that allow this type of behaviour to flourish.

Token, expendable female drivers are now passé as more women demand equal employment opportunities and

greater levels of respect across the sector.

Recruiters, sometimes those hard-to-find answers

are right there. Sometimes the best thing is simply to sit down, stop talking, listen, and let our female drivers speak.

Thanks to the support of WiTA, and its many mentors, WA log truck driver Sarah Churms is loving her life on the road.

Chasing the sun in style

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

AFTER 40 years on the road as a truckie, Rick Sauerwald, now 61, retired last year – well sort of anyway. He and his wife Delice Sauerwald are making life their adventure as they chase an endless summer.

Based on the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, they spent five years doing up their 359 Peterbilt and converting their 1994 trailer into a home away from home, which embarked on its maiden run in May 2022.

“Last year’s trip was fabulous. Over four months, we went from South Australia to Perth to Darwin, along the coast and then back home. We clocked up 12,000km in the Peterbilt. And then another 10,000km in the Toyota, as we did that much sight-seeing,” explained Rick.

“We can’t get into every caravan park in Australia with it, but that’s not why we built it. The truck stays on bitumen roads – we use the car to visit national parks and beaches. We like to keep the truck immaculate.

“What we’re trying to do is travel somewhere tropical in Australia each winter. It’s a magical thing to have this sort of truck. The project was really special because me and my wife spent five years putting it together. It started with a blank piece of paper and we got it exactly how we wanted it. We’re very proud and happy with the end result.”

The transformation is incredible. When they received the trailer, it was in a bit of a sorry state. “I bought the trailer after seeing it online. It was well worn, cracked and faded. It was just a box with no air

conditioning or anything and was only ever used to transport bread for Tip Top,” recalled Rick.

Now the trailer is unrecognisable. Rick says it has all the creature comforts. The impressive ‘motorhome’ even has space to carry their Toyota RAV4 thanks to its clever design. “We have air conditioning, a shower, toilet, kitchen, solar panels, satellite TV – it’s basically a house. There’s a mezzanine section with couches on it. When it’s dropped down, it’s a lounge room, which gives us an extra 5 metres of living space. When it’s lifted up, we can park our car under it. We had to buy the right lounge to fit into that space, as it stays sitting on that mezzanine floor. We had parameters for the car size too. It converts from garage to lounge in minutes.”

As you’d imagine, a lot of blood, sweat and dollars went into making this dream a reality. “It took a while to complete because we were working full time – me as a dangerous goods driver and my wife as a midwife – and we used our

wages to pay for it,” added Rick. “Most of the fit-out that we could do, we did ourselves; and we did it all to a high standard. But we also had to spend a lot of money on appropriate trades like electrical, plumbing, gas and cabinet makers.

“I’m in my element with it.

This all evolved from seeing someone else have one, then thinking we could do that. We thought of getting a caravan but elected to do own trailer from scratch instead.”

As for the truck, Rick and Delice were looking into importing a Peterbilt from the

United States for their project, but as luck would have it, they came across one closer to home.

“It was actually an ex-NASCAR hauler for a small onecar team that did the circuit. A guy from Melbourne imported the truck together with the car transporter trailer. The truck

The couple plans to use the “motorhome” each winter, embarking on adventures to warmer areas.

Travelling along the “90-mile Straight”.

Rick and Delice Sauerwald spent five years converting their 1984-model 359 Peterbilt and 1994 trailer into a home on wheels.

was white with purple flames on the bonnet and featured the words ‘Studio 33 Motorsports’ on the door,” said Rick.

“I went to have a look at the Peterbilt and then drove it home. Because it had only just been imported, it had never been registered in Australia, so there were a few hoops to jump

over with that. Delice and I had it sprayed, added the bling on the outside and the trims inside.”

That was the first time Rick had ever driven a Peterbilt and interestingly, the idea for the whole project started with something much smaller.

“This all began after a trip to a winery in the Clare Valley. They had a small Bedford truck in the driveway as a display and I said to Delice that I wouldn’t mind getting a truck one day and doing it up. I started looking at Kenworth trucks in America and was looking at day cabs at first, but then she said we might as well get one with a sleeper,” he said.

Rick added that he’s been mad on trucks since he was

just a little boy. He completed his diesel apprenticeship by the age of 19 and was driving trucks full time from the age of 21 – with the first truck he ever drove being a Ford Louisville with a 903 Cummins engine. Most of his career has involved carrying dangerous goods –which he still does casually now for Booth Transport, mainly during the summer, when he and Delice are back at home.

But for now, the husband and wife team are looking forward to their next adventure in their home on wheels.

As winter sets in for most of us in the southern states, Rick and Delice are preparing to set off, cruising along the coast to Cairns for yet another epic four-month adventure.

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Last year’s trip went from SA to Perth to Darwin.

When the couple bought the Peterbilt, which was an ex-NASCAR hauler, it had purple flames on the bonnet and featured the words ‘Studio 33 Motorsports’.

The converted trailer is spacious and comfortable.

There’s even room to bring the car, with the lounge room lifting, converting the space below into a “garage”.

Rick says he and Delice are super proud and happy with the end result.

A stop by at the Devils Marbles.

IT STARTED WITH A BLANK PIECE OF PAPER AND WE GOT IT EXACTLY HOW WE WANTED IT. WE’RE VERY PROUD AND HAPPY WITH THE END RESULT.”

RICK SAUERWALD

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

WHEN Janine Hanson, 37, moved from England to Australia 10 years ago, the plan was to continue working as a podiatrist – but the lure of the outback was calling.

These days you’ll find her pulling 300 tonne triple side tippers at the Tanami Desert in the Northern Territory.

Working for MLG, from behind the wheel of a Kenworth C510, Hanson transports gold ore between the underground mine and a crushing plant. Once the gold is extracted from the rock, a by-product is carted back to the mine, where it is made into concrete.

“Gold ore is very heavy. It’s about 300 tonne fully loaded. They’re manual trucks, so when you’re driving with those sorts of weights, and tipping off those sorts of weights,

there’s a bit of skill involved in it too,” Hanson said, as she waited for her flight home from the Granites Airport.

Hanson is a FIFO (fly-in, fly-out) worker and operates on a two-week on, one-week off schedule. She lives in Brisbane and works in the Northern Territory. “It’s long days and hard work, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Hanson does one week of day shifts and one week of night shifts. “I actually enjoy the night shift, especially in the summer because it’s a lot cooler at night and you don’t get all the flies either!”

When Big Rigs asked what led to her career change, Hanson explained, “I came over here with my ex-husband, then my marriage broke down and I became quite independent. That was when I realised how much I hated looking at people’s feet all day. I love be-

ing outdoors, love being out and about, and enjoy meeting people. I ride motorbikes too and love being on the road.”

So, she saw truck driving

as the perfect next step. And she’s never looked back.

Hanson completed her open HR licence four years ago and found work driving a side loader to transport 20ft containers from the Port of Brisbane. After 12 months, she upgraded to her MC.

“At the Port of Brisbane, I got a bit of a name for myself as I was one of the only females driving a side loader there at the time. Once I got my MC, I progressed to semi and double side loaders and did that for about 18 months, before coming out here,” she said.

“My end goal was to eventually be pulling road trains, driving in the outback – that’s what brought me here. I love being out on the road and seeing such beautiful parts of the country. I saw wild camels out here for the first time a few weeks ago, there were six of them on the road and then they ran into the bush.”

Hanson joined MLG around nine months ago, starting as a semi water cart driver, before progressing into triple road trains, which she’s

been driving for the past three months.

“I’ve been keeping up with the boys – and I can change my own tyres too. Out here they’ve all been fully supportive of me and I’m really proud of how I’ve proved myself. The boys out here are like a family and I’ve experienced nothing but positivity from everyone I’ve worked with. A lot of truck drivers would stop to talk to me and are curious about where I came from.

“MLG has been fantastic. The vibe we have out here is quite good, it’s like a big family.”

“I enjoy being accepted as a woman doing this job and being accepted as part of the team. The boys were saying this morning that I’m just one of the bros.”

Hanson got her Australian citizenship five years ago. Late last year she headed back to England to visit her family and friends. “A lot of them think I’m strange for doing the sort of work I’m doing, it’s completely alien to my family.

I was a podiatrist and before that my parents had nursing

homes, so I came from a medical and nursing background. Even though we’re close, I’ve always been the odd ball in the family!

“I never would have thought in a million years that I’d end up driving triple road trains in the outback, but I absolutely adore my job and definitely see myself driving trucks until the day I retire.”

MLG is a founder led business with over 800 employees, proudly servicing Australia’s largest resources companies in WA and NT for over 20 years. MLG offers a range of training and upskilling programs for experienced road train drivers and drivers looking to break into the mining industry.

MLG will embark on an East Coast Road Show from July 31 to August 6, visiting Townsville, Rockhampton, Toowoomba and Brisbane before heading to New South Wales and Tasmania later in the year. To register for one of MLG’s upcoming Road Train Driver Programs, visit mlgoz. com.au/careers/.

The former podiatrist is loving her new life behind the wheel of this C510 in the NT.

Truckin’ In The Tropics

with Alf Wilson

The start of a long career Loving life on the road

AT just 21, Kaden Beckett has the key to the door of a long career as a truck driver and is one of the youngest drivers I have come across.

Truckies like Beckett are the future of the road transport industry.

He works for CB Metcalf Transport which is based at Toowoomba and was driving a 2016 Kenworth T909 when I saw him parked at Warwick recently.

“I carry grain and commodities to Brisbane Port and have done a recent trip from Moree in NSW,” he said.

When I told Beckett that the average age of truckies was in the fties, he had this to say.

“Well I am a baby then!”

Friendly Beckett said the worst roads he travels on are between Surat and Meandarra, and the Newell Highway.

Beckett loves the job and was glowing in his praise for his boss for giving young blokes a go.

His favourite rest area is at Dirranbandi where he said there are good showers for truckies.

And his main wish for 2023 is to see better roads for

truckies.

CB Metcalf Transport is a grain haulage specialist and recently picked up the third Kenworth T909 Diamond Edition to roll o the assembly line at PACCAR’s Bayswater plant.

e Wellcamp (Toowoomba) based operation is a loyal Kenworth customer of Brown & Hurley Toowoomba, and was extra pleased to purchase one of just 75 Diamond Edition Kenworths currently being produced to celebrate the iconic dealership’s three-quarters of a century in business.

SOON after Rusty York,74, stopped at a rest area between Cardwell and Ingham in his Isuzu MRP300, he revealed he had “no xed address”.

“I live in the truck and sleep inside a tent I set up at the back at night. I also have a gas burner to cook food on,” he said.

When he stopped to chat, York was carrying general freight to Brisbane. He pur-

chased the Isuzu in Perth 18 months ago and drove it on the marathon journey to Cairns.

“It is a great and reliable truck and has more than 500,000km on the clock,” he said.

From the United States, York had just returned from Washington state to see a sick relative.

“I drove trucks all over the

USA, mainly carting anything from frozen goods to lumberjack. My favourite truck was a Peterbilt cab over,” he said. e worst road he nominated was the one between Perth to Alice Springs. “ ey have a nerve even calling it a highway,” he said.

York said the rest area he stopped at was great because it had serviced toilets and tables and chairs.

Kaden Beckett works for CB Metcalf Transport and drives a Kenworth T909.

Rusty York says he lives in the truck and sleeps in his tent.

Truckin’ In The Tropics

with Alf Wilson

Destined to become a truckie Travelling far and wide

VERSATILE Joshua Markwort, 36, had been a farmhand and shearer before becoming a truck driver about eight years ago. He drives a Western Star 4800 for Wyee Transport, based on the central coast of NSW. It has depots at Wyee, Brisbane and Melbourne.

“I will be soon driving a Kenworth K200 which will have more room to move in,” Markwort told Big Rigs. He mainly hauls general freight and said despite getting

work early on driving a tractor on a farm and shearing, he was always going to become a truckie.

“I grew up around trucks from when I was about 10 with my dad Ted who is an owner driver,” he said.

Having a small electric stove and a microwave with him on his travels means that Markwort doesn’t stop at many roadhouses except to fuel up.

“I cook most of my own food and enjoy pasta and stir fry,” he said.

Markwort reckons that parts of the Hume Highway are challenging to drive along but he said the route had some positives. “ ere are plenty of rest areas along the Hume,” he said.

Outside work Markwort enjoys shing around Woy Woy which includes at a lake.

“I have caught athead and silver bream which are good eating,” he said. e most unusual load he hauled was the front part of a boat between Melbourne and Brisbane.

IT was a cool 16 degrees when I saw young driver Tomo Kuhl parked up at a Stanthorpe roadhouse in southern Queensland. e 28-year-old was driving an Isuzu FXR for Top Tyres based at Archer eld in Brisbane.

“I have been carrying tractor tyres from Brisbane to Moree in NSW and left home at 4am a few days ago. I am heading back to base,” he said about the 1500km trip.

Kuhl travels far and wide in a job he enjoys. “I get to

Goondiwindi, Inglewood, and up to Emerald and Clermont in the north amongst other places,” he said. is enthusiastic driver said there was plenty of trafc on the road on his trip.

Kuhl added that the Isuzu was very comfortable and has followed his father Peter who was also a driver.

“I have been with the company for three years and they are good to work for,” he said.

I asked him the worst road he gets on during his long travels through Queensland

and across the border into “Mexico”.

“It would have to be the one between Surat and Meandarra – it is awful,” he said.

Kuhl said he loves driving long distances because of the freedom on the road and all the people he gets to meet.

Outside work Kuhl enjoys old cars and has a HJ Wagon. “And my partner Maddie has a HG Premier,” he said.

I left Kuhl certain this friendly truckie would be a driver for the long haul.

Joshua Markwort made the switch from farming and shearing to truck driving and hasn’t looked back.

Tomo Kuhl enjoys the travel that comes with the job.

Meteor a hot topic among truckies at Qld roadhouse

other residents did.

Croydon is a town within the Shire of Croydon in Queensland, located 529km west of Cairns. It has a permanent population of less than 300.

Big meteor bang

Long-time operators of the Gulf Gate Roadhouse at remote Croydon heard “a loud bang” the night space rock from a meteor hit terra rma near the town.

Helen and Shane Ellems have operated the popular roadhouse since it opened in 1986 and said there had been a lot of talk at the roadhouse about the meteor.

“It was about 9.30pm and we heard a big bang like something had exploded,” Helen told Spy.

It occurred on May 19 and whilst the couple never saw the light in the sky, many

Helen said many people had stopped at the roadhouse, where the meteor was the main topic of conversation.

“But nobody yet seems to know where it landed exactly,” she said.

e roadhouse is open seven days a week from 7am until 7pm and Helen said the favourite foods for truckies were sh and chips with salad, steak, along with bacon and eggs for breakfast.

Whilst they are enjoying a home cooked meal, many speculate about the meteor.

Scientists were collating data to determine the fall site of the meteorite.

e meteor, estimated to be a metre across, lit up skies

between Mackay and Cairns, and west to the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Professor Phil Bland from Curtin University’s School of Earth and Planetary Sciences told the ABC that the sonic boom felt by residents indicated the meteorite could have landed near Croydon.

Croydon Shire mayor Trevor Pickering said he expected the event to draw prospectors to the town. “I’ve heard that people may be coming looking for it. ere’s got to be bits of it laying around somewhere. Finding the site would be di cult but I would actually like to put a helicopter up and have a bit of a y around.”

Roadhouse ghts

Andy’s Roadhouse at Ingham has been servicing truckies since 1984, with drivers from all over Australia stopping there.

In May, about 800 spectators attended a boxing tournament there. It was hosted by Kingdom Boxing Gym under the banner of the Sunstate Amateur Boxing League.

Called the Kingdom Cup, many of those in the crowd are involved in the road

transport industry.

Barra, who celebrates his 80th birthday on September 2, is a legend of the industry in the north. is veteran has his own two trucks and is also heavily involved in organising country music events at the roadhouse.

“I have two old Macks and still drive but only do local runs these days around Ingham. We open seven days a week and 15 hours every day. One of my employees has been here for 30 years,” he said.

Barra added there were more than 20 bouts on the card and spectators included many associated with the road transport industry.

“I still have a passion for driving and the roadhouse and can’t wait to wake up every morning,” he said.

Many truckies I’ve spoken to rave on about how delicious his Andy Hamburgers are.

Newell a death trap

I received a text message from a truckie who had read a pro le in my Tropics column in which Dennis Petersen referred to the road from Charters Towers to Torrens Creek being one of the worst

roads to travel on.

“I delivered a D6 dozer to Charters Towers back in early October from western Victoria, travelling to Swan Hill to Bourke to Barcaldine to Torrens Creek and so forth. e forecast was for 100mm of rain at Bourke so l went down via Clermont to Dirranbandi to Walgett down the Newell Highway to Victoria to our base in western Victoria. e Newell Highway is a death trap with major potholes every kilometre. I think the Flinders Highway is much better than any road I’ve travelled in western Victoria in the last ve years.”

anks for the feedback Martin.

Bruce Highway again

A truckie who travels the east coast of Australia regularly told Spy that the Bruce Highway between Gympie

and Bundaberg is in a “terrible state and a genuine danger for all”.

“ e road is so rough and there are works being carried out along it, and it is just a nightmare to get along,” he said.

e driver added that authorities promised to x it up three years ago.

“Nothing much seems to have been done and what has looks like a band aid solution,” he said.

He added that three sets of tra c control lights ensure hold ups for di erent time periods.

On the ip side, the lad reckons the Gladstone to Rockhampton stretch of the Bruce is “not too bad”.

Truckie’s RBT watch ere is a truckie who frequents a waterhole that is popular with o -duty drivers and heaps of tradies, es-

Bamaga Roadhouse staff members Silas Tamwoy, Drucilla Gebadi, Tracy Sands, Rachelle Baira, Patricia Wilson, Bewan Idai, Charles Banu and George Bryden.

The boxing tournament at Andy’s Roadhouse in Ingham.

Andy’s Roadhouse at Ingham, where a boxing tournament was held.

SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON

pecially during happy hour which runs for an hour in the morning, and late in the afternoon. is lad is a tee totaller and sips on soft drink whilst the majority of the others enjoy a cold amber uid.

So what’s the reason he has become especially popular, other than because of his friendly nature?

He keeps checking a local Facebook page which reports the locations of police RBT operations.

ere had been a police blitz in the town and these RBT o cers were prevalent at lots of places and at di erent times.

Credit of $49,000

A veteran Tasmanian truck driver almost fell o his chair when he received an email from Telstra advising that his account was in credit for a whopping $49,000.

Now this knowledgeable gent has a modest communications plan and was surprised to say the least.

“It had an instruction to deduct that amount from my account when I go to pay it. Might take a while to use up all that credit I reckon,” he told Spy.

Anyway he advised the communications giant and the account will be adjusted.

He did also have trouble

with his internet connection, as he explained.

“I have been out of the loop with no contact as no internet results and no Facebook to see any goings on. For over three weeks I had no landline phone or internet intermittently dropping out.

At times I had internet with no phone, and a technician came and tted another modem.

“Now I have phone but bugger all internet and most of the time no emails either,” he said.

Tucker and dog queries

Some of my contacts in NSW tell me they have become “tourist guides” for many visitors they meet by chance at roadhouses, service centres or rest areas.

Of particular interest to many of these tourists is the location of the “Dog Sits On the Tucker” statue near Gundagai.

Gundagai is located 377km south-west of Sydney via the Hume Highway and is 225m above sea level.

An internationally recognised Australian icon, the Dog on the Tucker Box is 8km north of Gundagai, just o the Hume Highway.

It was erected in 1932 as part of ‘Back to Gundagai’ week, and a large crowd “gathered to her again” to witness the unveiling by Prime Minister Joseph Lyons.

“I get asked often about the Dog on the Tucker Box and people are intrigued by it and the history behind it,”

one told me.

During a visit to Gundagai I snapped a pic of the statue and also a truck negotiating the long bridge there.

Victorian truckies have told Spy that tourists often query them about the Ned Kelly statue at Glenrowan.

ey are very interested in the story behind Australia’s most famous bushranger. Such is life!

Remote Cape roadhouse

With the tourist season in full swing, the BP Bamaga Roadhouse now employs about 25 workers and 90 per cent are local Indigenous men and women.

e popular roadhouse services locals living in the sister communities of Bamaga, Injinoo, Umagico, New Mapoon and Seisia and has the largest fuel tanks in the Northern Peninsula Area.

Reports have been received by Big Rigs that the sta are amongst the friendliest you would meet and always try and please customers.

General manager Tom Kelly said there were also a lot of visitors from as far away as Cairns, 950km south, who patronise the business.

“ ere is a lot of construction work going on up here and the trucks come from south and we also get council vehicles and tourist buses here,” Kelly said.

“We have fuel tanks with the biggest capacity and stock more than we need to but want to be sure we have enough at all times.”

Many of the sta have

worked there for long periods including roadhouse manager Bewan Idai.

“Bewan has been here for 10 years and the roadhouse has been around for 15 years.

e sta are well known to locals,” Kelly said.

Being under the BP banner, that is also of great bene t to sta who receive the latest online training, which Kelly says assists greatly.

e roadhouse has a café and mini mart restaurant which serves up tasty food and some is also cooked at the nearby lodge run by Bamaga Enterprises.

“We serve up fresh food as much as we can and try to keep it as healthy as possible. e sta often do health kicks,” Kelly said.

It is open between 6.30am and 8pm daily.

Customers take advantage of 24/7 services and re-fuel around the clock with a 24-hour outdoor payment terminal, o ering unleaded petrol, premium unleaded and diesel.

A 24-hour ATM is also on site so you can top up on cash at your convenience. e café o ers hot takeaway food ranging from dim sims and hot dogs to daily specials including hot and spicy chicken, and crab claws.

Some of the other favourites include burgers, sh and chips, pizzas and sandwiches, which mostly sell out daily.

Whilst a lot of supplies are road transported to Bamaga along mostly red corrugated roads six months of the year,

in the wet season it has to come by sea.

I asked Kelly his thoughts on why the roadhouse was so popular.

“It’s like being in a successful football team, you want to be part of it,” he said.

Gavan Roy, operations manager for Weipa based Rob Roy Earthmoving also praised the roadhouse.

“It is where we fuel our trucks when we’re up that way and it is a great roadhouse,” Roy said.

Abuse for doing his job

You would have to feel sorry for this rural council truck driver who was seriously abused for just doing his job. is veteran driver, aged in his sixties, was emptying bins along a popular and well used road in a busy town when the tirade of expletive comments were directed at him.

“What could I possible be doing that would result in this,” he thought.

It turned out the culprit was one of those people who collects empty cans and bottles and takes them to a recycling depot for 10 cents each. e area where the bins were emptied has been a treasure trove of cans for this collector.

Usually, the collector checks out the bins well before the truck arrives but on this occasion it was early.

Spy had to feel sorry for the poor truckie who has been around for decades and had never copped this treatment before.

A sped warning sign near Singleton, as a truck travels in the other direction.

The ‘Dog Sits on The Tucker Box’ statue.

A speed warning sign in NSW.

A truck cruises along the long bridge at Gundagai.

UD and Mack truck specialists across Queensland, the Northern Territory

Save the date: Trucking events to mark in the diary

Here’s a few major trucking events happening near you, or that might be worth visiting.

JUNE

Alexandra Truck, Ute & Rod Show

June 11

Alexandra, Victoria alexandratruckshow.com.au

Celebrating the 26th year of the Alexandra Truck, Ute & Rod Show on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June 2023. Sunday Show ‘n Shine on Alexandra’s main street, includes live music, Victorian woodchop tournament, exhibitions and trade displays, kids’ amusements and Truck Show Day rafe draw. Be early on Saturday for the local markets, convoy and truck driver’s memorial service at 2pm and sponsors’ dinner at 6pm.

JULY

Wauchope Yesteryear Truck & Machinery Show

July 8-9

Wauchope Showground, NSW

Featuring historic and late model working trucks, vintage cars and tractors, machinery, motorcycles and stationary en-

gines. Plus market stalls, swap meet and family entertainment. Free entry for exhibitors. $10 weekend camping. Saturday night fully catered meal and unreserved auction with proceeds to charity.

AUGUST Casino Truck Show

August 5 Casino, NSW

casinotruckshow.com.au

Show sponsored by North Coast Petroleum. e Highway Lights Parade will roll through Johnston and Centre Streets from 10am on Saturday. Truck registrations ($30 each) from 6am at the Casino Industrial Area on the town’s east side. Includes live music, amusements and markets. Over $12,000 in cash and prizes. Presentation at 2pm. Plus plenty of blinged up trucks from all across Australia will be parked in the CBD. Bobtail and rigid trucks only.

2023 Australian Festival of Transport

August 24-27

National Road Transport Hall of Fame, Alice Springs roadtransporthall.com

e National Road Transport Hall has announced the 2023 Australian Festival of Transport. e four-day event will include welcoming the new inductees onto the prestigious Shell Rimula Wall of Fame and

the Legends Gala Dinner that will incorporate the rst annual ‘Transport Women Unite Red Ball’ on Saturday night. e Red Ball will also be host to the inaugural Transport Women Dream Maker Award. is award is to recognise the women in the industry who work behind the scenes, and help those who front the organisation to achieve their dreams, whether it be an owner/operator, a family business or a large company.

SEPTEMBER

NatRoad Conference 2023

September 27-29

Gold Coast, Queensland natroad.com.au

After a di cult two years for road freight operators, NatRoad is pleased to invite members to the NatRoad National Conference 2023, to be held at the RACV Royal Pines Resort, Benowna on Queensland’s Gold Coast from

September 27 to 29. Includes the ‘NatRoad Parliament’ and the NatRoad Awards presented at the Gala Dinner.

Lights On e Hill Memorial Convoy

September 30 & October 1

Gatton, Queensland lightsonthehill.com.au

e 2023 Lights on the Hill Memorial Convoy is planned to be held on September 30 en route to Gatton Showgrounds with the Memorial service to be held on October 1 at the Lake Apex Memorial wall. Live music at the showgrounds includes e Wolfe Brothers, Josh Setter eld, Hayley Jensen, Will Day, Kerry Kennedy & Double Barrel and more.

NOVEMBER

Brisbane Convoy for Kids

November 4

Brisbane, Queensland brisbaneconvoyforkids.com.au

Following a successful 2022 event, planning is already underway to make the 2023 Brisbane Convoy for Kids even bigger and better. Along with the main convoy, there will be a truck show, family fun and entertainment, and an evening reworks display.

Illawarra Convoy

November 19 Illawarra, NSW illawarraconvoy.com.au

Touted as the largest truck and motorbike convoy in the southern hemisphere, the Illawarra Convoy raises funds for individuals and families a ected by potentially life threatening medical conditions, together with charities that work with these people, and local hospitals.

Have you got an event you’d like included in the next save the date? Email all the details to editor@bigrigs.com.au.

Illawarra Convoy is regarded as the largest truck and motorbike convoy in the southern hemisphere.

Lights On The Hill Memorial Convoy is planned for September 30.

The NatRoad national conference will be held in September this year.

Queensland team wins Apprentice Challenge title

HELD during the Brisbane Truck Show last month, the 2023 HVIA National Apprentice Challenge went down to the wire, with a Queensland team walking away with the title.

Lachlan Tate (Brown & Hurley) and Brayden Conaghan (Penske Australia) were named the winning team, following a flawless fault-finding final.

This year saw a new format introduced for the National Apprentice Challenge, with six training providers from around Australia each selecting two apprentices to compete.

The competition was run over two intense days, with six heats leading to the finals, which took place on Friday, May 19 at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.

Competition coordinator, and former HVIA director Chris Musch, said the event’s sponsors had fully invested themselves in ensuring every competitor’s experience would be rewarding and memorable.

It was a busy few days in the lead-up to competition for all of the apprentices involved.

They came into Brisbane on the Tuesday for a meet and greet dinner with each other and the sponsors, along with a briefing about the competition. Then on the Wednesday, the apprentices attended the

HVIA Executive Club event on the eve of the Brisbane Truck Show.

“That was a great opportunity for them to meet industry leaders, many of whom also started in the

Fuel Driver Opportunities NATIONALLY

The Role

Toll Group have full time permanent opportunities for experienced MC/ HC drivers and new drivers wanting to expand their career path for our Fuels Business operating nationally.

Benefits:

• Permanent Full Time Opportunity

• Great hourly Rates and allowances

• Career advancement and training opportunities

• Safety Obsessed Culture

• Modern Fleet with replacement programs

• Varying Rosters to provide a work/ lifebalance

• 5 Weeks A/L

Skills & Experience

• Current MC/HC driver’s license

• Current Dangerous Goods (DG) licensepreferred

• Experience in bulk fuel is preferred,

workshop,” said Musch.

“By the end of the night, I think it started to really sink in what a great pathway they were on.”

Then on the Thursday, things kicked off, with four

heats held throughout the day.

Musch said all of the teams worked extremely well together to solve as many faults as possible within the available 45 minutes of each heat. Straight off the ship, three

Western Star 47X trucks were supplied by Penske Australia, along with their expert staff to program the faults into the trucks before each heat.

With the Western Star 47X being a brand new mod

butalltraining will be provided

• Basic Fatigue Management accreditationpreferred

• Experienced MC and HC Drivers

Working at Toll

At Toll Fuels we are proud to be a leading logistics provider ofbulk liquid, you name it we do it from Metro service stations, JetandAvgas to Mine site distribution withlocal andlinehaul options.

If you are interested in any of these roles, please contact John Markham via email at john.markham @tollgroup.com or phone 0402 965 715 to discuss further.

INDUSTRY LEADING RATES OF PAY & SUPERANUATION OF 15% ROSTERS THAT PROVIDE WORK/ LIFE BALANCE

IF YOU WANT TO LEARN FUEL WE’RE WILLING TO TRAIN THE RIGHT PEOPLE

Toll embraces and celebrates a variety of cultures. We continue to build a business that reflects the values of equality, built on the knowledge and understanding that everyone is welcome including the First Nations Peoples, and those of all ages, genders, and abilities. Women are actively encouraged to apply.

All applicants must be entitled to work in Australia and be prepared to undergo a criminal history check, pre-employment medical and/ or drug & alcohol testing as required.

Teams had to solve as many faults as they could within the allocated timeframe.

Penske Australia supplied three Western Star 47X trucks for the competition.

The team of Brayden Conaghan (Penske Australia) and Lachlan Tate (Brown & Hurley) won the 2023 title.

el truck that was launched at the Brisbane Truck Show, it meant none of the competitors had any previous experience working on the truck.

Penske staff also ensured the introduced faults were generic faults you would find on all brands of large trucks – and they were on hand to give a little guidance when required.

At the end of day one, scores were very close, separated by either one or two points, or time penalties.

The final two heats were held on Friday morning. “There were positive signs that the apprentices had learnt from Thursday’s competition and put together a plan to ensure they got into the final,” added Musch.

The top three teams made it through to the big showdown on the Friday afternoon.

“The final consisted of nine programmed faults, plus a tenth bonus fault, all of which the apprentices had

to find within the 60-minute time limit,” Musch explained.

Lachlan and Brayden came out on top, by fixing all nine faults and the bonus fault in a time of 56 minutes.

“This is the first time for me that we have a team complete all tasks, and it was in a record time,” said Musch.

Determining second place required a countback to the heats, which came down to a 15-second time penalty.

That put Kyle Guy and Ryan Robinson (both from Followmont Transport) ahead of Nathan Kaker (Penske Australia) and Caleb Todd (Cummins South Pacific).

“The National Apprentice Challenge competition, and the apprentices competing, showcased a very bright future within our industry to the school students attending,” Musch said. “I would like to thank everyone involved in ensuring we had a successful competition.”

Teams & Results

First place:

• Lachlan Tate (Brown & Hurley) and Brayden Conaghan (Penske Australia); representing TAFE Qld Skills Tech

Second place:

• Kyle Guy and Ryan Robinson (both from Followmont Transport); representing Busy at Work QLD

Third place:

• Nathan Kaker (Penske Australia) and Caleb Todd (Cummins South Pacific); representing Central Regional TAFE WA

Other finalists who competed:

• Ben Seyffer (Nowra Truck & Tractor Repairs) and Sara Attard (Transport for NSW); representing TAFE NSW

• Paris Maw (CMV Truck & Bus) and Jackson Marriott (Peninsula Diesel Repairs); representing Kangan TAFE VIC

• Blade Elzer (Major Motors Isuzu) and Jacob Zurolo (MTAWA); representing South Metro TAFE WA

CMV upskills technicians

CMV Truck & Bus has announced the second site –CMV Clayton – to become a fully certified Volvo Trucks Electric Vehicle (EV) Dealer.

The Clayton dealership joins CMV’s purpose-built Derrimut dealership which was certified late last year.

“Our workshop, parts and sales teams undertook extensive training and completed all elements of Volvo Group’s rigorous EV certification process, so we could offer our customers this type of forward-thinking solution” says Rohan Cook, CMV Truck & Bus Clayton branch manager.

The Volvo Trucks Certified EV Dealer program was designed to ensure that dealerships are fully prepared to support customers with electric trucks.

Sales teams are trained to consult with their customers who are considering adding a

Volvo EV to their fleet to ensure they are selecting the right vehicle and charging configuration for their operating requirements.

As part of the certification process, technicians received in-depth technical training to ensure they have the skills and knowledge required to maintain electric vehicles. Technicians also received training in relation to safety procedures to follow when working with high-voltage systems.

“Qualified support personnel are vital on our path to zero emissions,” said Martin Merrick, president and CEO, Volvo Group Australia. “And as newer, cleaner mobility solutions emerge we will always ensure that our dealer partners are at the cutting edge in terms of knowledge and competence.

“I am delighted to see our EV capability grow, ensuring that our customers have the

best business partner for their transformation journey.”

CMV Truck and Bus has eight dealerships located across metropolitan and regional Victoria, and is now working towards achieving the Volvo Trucks Certified EV Dealer status for the Dandenong dealership.

“We’re incredibly proud that CMV Truck & Bus is at the forefront of supporting customers in their transition to more renewable energy sources. While both our Clayton and Derrimut dealerships are EV certified, we acknowledge that this is just the beginning,” added Miles Crawford, CMV Truck and Bus general manager.

“We are focused on supporting our customers and business partners in this transition and we are in the process of rolling out EV certification across all our dealerships.”

Easter Group Pty Ltd Easter Group Pty Ltd

73 Formation St, Wacol

Easter Group, located in Wacol, provides time sensitive road transporting solutions to many companies throughout Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. We are a family owned business, operating since 1976. We currently have the following positions available:

OPERATIONS ALLOCATORS

(Brisbane based only)

You will be required to work on a rotating roster including Days-Nights-Weekends

Previous Operations experience preferred.

MC LOCAL, LINEHAUL & 2-UP 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 arepermanent 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 Operations Manager or by emailing your resume to WORKSHOP MECHANICS & TYRE FITTERS WANTED (Brisbane based only)

To apply for Mechanic positions please forward your resume to Workshop Manager via email to employment@kseaster.com.au

The six teams were selected by six training providers from around Australia, each choosing two apprentices to compete.

The workshop, parts and sales teams undertook extensive training to ensure the dealership is fully prepared to support customers with electric trucks.