Big Rigs 1 October 2021

FRIDAY, October 01, 2021

ONLINE www.bigrigs.com.au

EMAIL info@bigrigs.com.au

COMPANIES CASH IN ON JOBKEEPER Pages 4-5

TRUCKIES’ ROADMAP THROUGH COVID Page 6

ROAD TRAIN TRAILER COMBO PAYS OFF FOR FAMILY BUSINESS: PAGES 12-14

2 NEWS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

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

Connect Logistics answers to Chain of Responsibility charges CHAIN of Responsibility (CoR) charges against Connect Logistics, the Sydney-headquartered company involved in the tragic deaths of four Victoria Police officers, have been filed at Paramatta Local Court.

The company, owner-managing director, national operations manager, and state manager have each been charged with Category 1 and 2 offences under the CoR provisions of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).

These are the most serious offences available under the HVNL. Category 1 offences carry a maximum penalty of $300,000 and/or five years imprisonment for an individual and

$3,000,000 for a corporation.

Category 2 offences carry a maximum penalty of $150,000 for an individual and $1,500,000 for a corporation.

The matter was due to be heard next on September 28 at Paramatta Local Court.

The court date follows a comprehensive 18-month investigation by Taskforce Paragon which was established to investigate the Eastern Freeway incident in which Connect Logistics driver Mohinder Singh hit and killed four Victoria Police officers while they were conducting a roadside intercept on April 22, 2020.

His former boss Simiona Tuteru also now faces more

than 70 charges in relation to the fatal crash, the most serious of which are four counts of manslaughter by criminal negligence.

NHVR director of prosecutions Belinda Hughes said the CoR charges have been laid after multiple and critical breaches of the HVNL were identified.

“These charges stem from an extensive interstate investigation by Victoria Police into the actions of the transport operator, its executive and its employees,” Hughes said.

“This tragedy is a sobering reminder of the consequences that can occur when there is a failure to ensure safe transport activities.”

CoR charges were laid against Connect Logistics after multiple and critical breaches of the HVNL were identified.

Truckie charged after damage to Covid-19 border blockade

A man has been charged after allegedly driving a prime mover through the Covid-19 border blockade on Keetah Bridge to enter Queensland from New South Wales, causing damage to the fencing.

On September 15, the 26-year-old man was turned around at the Goondiwindi border check point for failing to have evidence of a negative Covid-19 test.

Queensland Police then alleged at around 11.45pm that evening the man drove his vehicle through the unmanned hard border at Keetah Crossing.

The damage to the gates was discovered the next day by a border patrol crew.

Police obtained CCTV from the crossing and were able to identify the vehicle involved, and subsequently located the 26-year-old man

in Texas around 5pm on September 16.

He was arrested and charged with wilful damage and fail to comply with Covid-19 Public Health Direction and is due to appear in Inglewood Magistrates Court on November 18.

The man was then ordered to return to New South Wales.

The crossing has since been secured with hard concrete blocks and police will continue

to conduct border patrols of all roads and closures.

A day after this incident another driver was hit with more than $4000 in fines after being turned around at the Queensland-NSW border at Coolangatta then crashing his flatbed truck through the barricades.

Police said the 53-year-old man, who is a Queensland resident, was refused entry by

officers at the border because he did not have a valid border pass.

Reports say the man became aggressive towards officers after crashing his vehicle.

Police have confirmed the man was handed a $4135 fine for failing to comply with border directions.

He was also given a small fine for stopping his vehicle on a footpath.

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Call to make rest stop construction mandatory

THE federal government should create a national truck rest stop fund to boost jobs, freight efficiency and safety as Australia emerges from COVID-enforced lockdowns, says the National Road Transport Association (NatRoad).

NaRoad CEO Warren Clark said border delays that caused fatigue issues for heavy vehicle operators during the pandemic have underlined the importance of truck rest areas.

Speaking following lodgement of a submission to the Federal Joint Select Committee on Road Safety, Clark said the current approach to funding and building rest areas was fragmented and inconsistent.

“Western Australia and Queensland are pressing on with building jointly-funded rest areas while New South Wales is still conducting a study,” Clark said.

“We’re not talking about building bridges – rest areas are infrastructure projects that can be stood up in a relatively short time and can provide local jobs and proven safety outcomes.

“In 2018, the trucking industry responded to an Austroads research report seeking

comment on guidelines for truck rest areas with a series of recommendations.

“They ranged from provision of truck rest areas every 32 kilometres and a ban on general and caravan parking in the truck section of any rest area, to providing more toilets and barring road agencies from using rest areas to store roadwork materials.

“Few, if any, of those have been adopted by any state or territory government.”

The guidelines that Austroads issued in January 2019 called for detailed heavy vehicle rest areas strategies for major highways and significant freight routes.

“There were also guidelines for distances between rest areas depending on the class of vehicles – it’s time to mandate these in the same way that driver rest breaks are compulsory,” Clark said.

“Let’s share the construction cost via a national fund that puts the onus on the states and territories to match and spend funding in a finite time or lose it.”

Clark said a seminal US study shows that more fre-

NatRoad says more must be done to ensure our truckies have better rest areas.

quently placement of rest areas has a major, positive impact on fatigue-related accidents.

That study found that commercial vehicle driver at-fault crashes involving sleepiness or fatigue were more likely to occur on roadways where the nearest rest areas/truck stops were 30 kilometres a commercial vehicle crash site.

The incidence of crashes

rose once the distance exceeded 32km, highlighting this distance as a hard upper limit for mapping rest locations.

Federal funding for rest areas is currently administered under the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program (HVSPP) is an Australian Government initiative to fund infrastructure projects that “improve the productivity and

safety outcomes of heavy vehicle operations across Australia.”

The Australian Government has committed to providing $607 million over the 13 years from 2013-14 to 2024-25, with an ongoing commitment at least $65 million per year from 2025-26.

Since the program commenced in 2009 seven funding rounds have been undertaken.

NEWS 3

The date for the opening of round eight has not yet been decided, according the infrastructure website.

Meanwhile, the Senate committee inquiry into the road transport industry has also recommended more be done to improve the condition and number of rest stops.

In its recently tabled report, the committee asked that the government adopt national guidelines for the design and placement of heavy vehicle rest areas for major highways and significant freight routes.

It also supports a public education campaign that demonstrates why heavy vehicle drivers must have access to designated rest areas.

“The New South Wales and federal governments continue to do the bare minimum when it comes to the respectful treatment of truck driver needs at work,” added Richard Olsen, the Transport Workers Union NSW/ Queensland state secretary in a Big Rigs column earlier this year.

The NRFA weighs in on the rest area issue on page 6.

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4 NEWS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Transport companies boost bottom line with JobKeeper

BY JAMES GRAHAM

ASX-LISTED companies are reportedly digging in their toes when it comes to paying back JobKeeper payments, despite booking healthy profits over the last two financial years.

According to a report by

leading corporate advisory group Ownership Matters, 58 of the 66 ASX 300 companies which received the government’s $89.3 billion JobKeeper subsidy between July and December last year reported positive earnings.

At the time of writing, only a small handful has paid

it back, prompting the Greens deputy leader Nick McKim to introduce a private members’ bill to the Federal Senate called the Coronavirus Economic Response Package Amendment (Ending JobKeeper Profiteering) Bill 2021.

If passed the bill would

Transport and logistics giant K&S Corporation benefited more than most, based on its annual reports.

require the Australian Tax Office (ATO) to publish a list of all entities that received JobKeeper payments and how much they received, excluding those with an annual turnover of less than $10m.

McKim’s bill would also force companies with an annual turnover of more than $50m that took part in the JobKeeper program, and made a profit afterwards, to repay at least some of the JobKeeper payments.

If those companies paid dividends to shareholders or paid executive bonuses, they would also have to repay some JobKeeper payments.

Our research shows some high-profile road transport companies on that list, many of whom flourished during Covid as freight demands surged to unprecedented levels.

Transport and logistics giant K&S Corporation benefited more than most, based on its annual reports.

Citing concerns around longer term impacts of the pandemic on operations, K&S loaded up on $28.6m in JobKeeper subsidies in the

2020 calendar year, reveals Ownership Matters.

On June 30, 2020, however, it boasted that earnings had doubled on the year prior, and in the six months to December 31, 2020, K&S had more than tripled its pre-pandemic numbers and profits were up almost five-fold.

By the year’s end, it was able to pay shareholders a healthy 50 per cent dividend spike with some $1.3m of the spoils going to Linfox, which owns 18 per cent of the company, and $5m to the descendants of founder Allan Scott via their 65 per cent stake.

In all, K&S had notched a 63 per cent rise in net profits to $18.1 million compared

with last year’s $11.1 million, bolstered by a pre-tax jobs subsidy of $16.2 million gained in the September quarter.

Ownership Matters co-founder Dean Paatsch said the accounts suggested that K&S used only $344,000 in JobKeeper to workers who weren’t working.

“This suggests that 98.8 per cent of the $28.6m in JobKeeper received were to subsidise wages of people who were working and went to pad K&S profits.”

Big Rigs’ requests to K&S to ask whether the company intended to repay any of the JobKeeper subsidies went unanswered by deadline for this issue.

Lindsay’s ‘Fresh’ division received a total of $2.93m in JobSeeker payments, according to financial records filed.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Qube is the only publicly-listed transport operation to have paid back a portion of JobKeeper.

The Australian Financial Review (AFR) reports that a general-purpose financial statement recently lodged with ASIC for FY20 shows Linfox received a total of $22.8m in Covid-19 related government grants.

Based on Linfox executive Peter Fox’s insistence to the road transport inquiry by the Glenn Sterle-led committee that the broader group didn’t quality for JobKeeper, the AFR also surmises that the taxpayers’ money must have all gone to the company’s cash-moving subsidiary Armaguard.

“Given the first phase of JobKeeper divided evenly between the last three months of FY20 and the first three of FY21, it’s almost certain the business of Australia’s 25th richest man banked a total of $45.6 million in JobKeeper to September, after which it stopped receiving the subsidy,” the paper reports.

Requests to Linfox media reps for a comment, also

went unanswered.

Of the bigger transport players, it seems only Qube has paid any of the JobKeeper subsidies back. Earlier this year, Qube announced that it would return the $16.8 million it received in the second half of last year after reporting a 10 per cent increase in its profits compared to the same period a year earlier.

“Other companies may make different decisions and choose not to repay as, like Qube, they have no legal obligation to do so,” the company’s statement said.

“However, on balance, the Qube board felt returning JobKeeper was the right decision.”

At the time of writing, however, Qube has not returned the $13.5 million it received during the first few months of the scheme when the company also reportedly paid out nearly $2.8 million in executive bonuses during the same period.

Although its payments

were more modest in comparison, Lindsay Australia also received a notable boost from JobKeeper in 2020 with a total of $2.93m injected into the coffers for the benefit of an estimated 150 staff.

That amount was apportioned solely to its ‘Fresh’ division, with $870,000 to the end of June, 2020, and a further $2.06m bite in the year to June 30, 2021, which represents almost all of Lindsay’s increase in underlying net profit before tax in both financial years – up to $1.05m in 2020 (10.5 per cent change), and $2.7m in 2021, representing a 24.3 per cent jump.

Lindsay Australia has not returned a request for comment.

Financial statements lodged for interstate behemoth CTI Logistics, formerly trading as JAYDE Transport, also show significant gains thanks to the subsidy scheme.

At the end of June 30, 2020, CTI had received just $561,000 in JobKeeper in a less than stellar year, but in the following financial year, the company backed up the truck for another $1.312m while profits soared.

By June 30, 2021, the company recorded a profit before tax of $11.565m, up from $2.471m in 2020.

CTI also didn’t return our request for a comment.

Trailer giants MaxiTRANS, now trading as MaxiPARTS on the ASX, received a total of $9.5m in JobKeeper payments: $4.9m

in FY20 and another $4.6m in the last financial year.

Its underlying net profit after tax was a modest $0.5m in FY20 before rebounding to an impressive $10.487m in FY21. The company didn’t respond directly to our questions about repaying the JobKeeper payments, but did at least respond with an explanatory statement, citing the impacts of drought and reduced business confidence in FY20.

“This was further extended during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with MaxiPARTS subject to global supply chain disruption and the majority of transport businesses, which utilise the business for its equipment and services, putting short term

capital investment plans on hold,” the statement reads.

“It was thanks to JobKeeper that Australian businesses like MaxiPARTS could keep their operations going despite the direct impact of COVID-19, so that we could continue to support our customers, while keeping our local workforce employed.

“The JobKeeper payments received by the group were only received within the Trailer solutions area with the Parts business continuing to operate without any JobKeeper support.

“While MaxiPARTS posted a favourable result in FY21, JobKeeper was used as it was intended to allow the local workforce to be retained at a

time the business was implementing measures to reduce the impact of COVID-19, including forced shutdowns and salary reductions.”

• Under the JobKeeper scheme, employers received a minimum of $19,500 for each employee between April-September 2020, regardless of whether they were working. The qualifying criteria was a percentage downturn in sales in March (compared to the prior year) or a forecast drop during April-June. For firms with an annual turnover of >$1bn, the downturn required was 50 per cent, for those under $1bn the fall was 30 per cent.

It’s estimated that Linfox banked a total of $45.6 million in JobKeeper payments to September, 2020.

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FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Six-point plan for Covidsafe trucking

THE National Road Freighters Association, a grass-roots body representing truckies and small-fleet operators, has sent authorities what it believes is a roadmap to help the industry safely navigate its way through Covid.

In the form of an open letter to ministers and parliamentarians, the NRFA summarises what its members see as six key issues holding the industry back, along with solutions.

“Our greatest fear is our

industry will start to crack under the strain,” said NRFA president Rod Hannifey in the plan’s preface.

“We are very concerned for truck driver’s mental health with the constant Covid rule changes between states.

“We put this forward with genuine intent, to work with any and all other associations to see us able to continue to keep delivering to Australians, a job we have done so well during this crisis.”

The NRFA plan: 1. We’re happy to do our part and be tested every seven days, nothing less is necessary or fair on us, unless you provide numerous 24/7 testing centres with truck access.

Such sites must include vaccinations. We were left out from the essential list and it will take time to catch up.

Trying to keep working, get tested every three days and still have to book and queue weeks in advance and lose

The NRFA wants no rule or border changes without industry consultation and without less than two weeks’ notice.

more time/pay to get vaccinated is not only unjust, but unworkable for some. To ensure we can comply and get priority for vaccinations, get test results back in time to cross borders, the road transport industry must be recognised as essential.

2. We will apply for and carry a National Freight Permit if required, valid in every state and territory, for a minimum period of 14 days. All states must agree. There should be no rule or border changes without industry consultation and without less than two weeks’ notice.

3. Truck stops must be allowed to operate, we must have access to toilets, showers and facilities if you want us to continue carrying your needs and not get sick or tired trying to comply with multitudes of different rules.

No facility should refuse us access to a toilet, we will happily wipe down a seat before and after use. If they fail to provide us with such facilities (as they must do under law for their staff) they should be fined. We too need toilets.

4. There must be a moratorium

NRFA president Rod Hannifey.

on non-road safety related logbook fines. We are not lawless or above the law, but any fines issued by police under the HVNL, must be reviewed by NHVR before they will be actioned. We do hope the HVNL review will affect some of these concerns, but it will not be resolved for many months. We cannot continue being fined for clerical and minor time errors. The cost to the community of us fighting such onerous fines for little more than a mistake, is not only a waste of taxpayer’s money, it is not in any way, fair justice.

5. We require a National Road Standard, the road should be accepted as our workplace,

major crashes investigated and not simply the driver charged first and last. Roads and road repairs must meet that standard or be repaired to that standard within an agreed time frame.

6.

There must be a National Truck Rest Area Strategy to provide suitable and sufficient truck rest areas. This to improve our safety and that of other road users. To improve our ability to get good quality sleep as and when needed. In relation to drivers and sleep, there must be consultation on reasonable size sleeper berths. Not more freight, but better places to live and sleep in when on the road.

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8 OPINION

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Tin foil hatters push it too far

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

I like to think I give everyone a fair go on these pages, whether I agree with them or not.

But you might have your work cut out if you call and try and convince me, as one driver did this week, that the coronavirus is all just one big hoax, perpetrated by big pharma to line the pockets of shareholders.

That, my dear readers, is where I’ll draw the line every time.

I respect your right to not get vaxxed. More power to you, I say. That’s why we spoke to two intersate drivers for our story on page 16 to humanise the fallout from Victoria’s mandatory jab rule that came into play last month.

As we see every day in our Facebook posts, there has never been a more divisive issue and it’s sad to see truckies paying such a hefty financial price for just standing up for what they believe in.

I get my second jab of Pfizer this month. Am I happy about it? No. I felt like crap after the first jab, but I don’t see any other way to get our freedom back.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

There’s a world of trouble out there, and it will get worse THERE is currently a frenzied campaign being undertaken to breed fear of the un-vaccinated.

The vaccinated are being persuaded into fearing them because of ‘reasons’ that they ‘likely’ carry the virus. Even Gladys [Berejiklian] said she fears siting in a restaurant with an un-vaccinated.

Irrespective of any good intention, using fear is an insidious persuasion tool, and is highly likely to blow

out of proportion when the will of the mob takes over.

The fear cemented in the mob won’t taper when the government chooses.

They’ll come to fear all carriers of the virus – they will target outsiders – they will target truck drivers.

Whether vaccinated or not, they’ll say: “You’ve likely got it, you’re putting our communities at risk.”

They’ll shut them out on their own terms, the gov-

ernment will lose control of the lockouts.

Our drivers will remain locked down, they will be banned from hospitality, and face discrimination with medical access.

I’m no epidemiologist, but I’ve heard countless times that the vaccines work. The science says they work. The science says that the vaccine protects us from serious symptoms.

Anyone that looks to put fear into a vaccinated per-

son is a science denier and should be called out on it.

If the climate of fear doesn’t cool down, our truckies will be next. While I’d be more than happy to talk about this publicly, my business would likely be targeted by the authorities, I’d have Covid inspections on all sites, and likely be shut down in no time.

I appreciate some may not agree with me and I greatly appreciate the great job you’ve all done in help-

ing us through this troubled time.

I know there’s a massive job people have doing in keeping facilities open and such. I think the problem that’s looming is greater than what we’ve seen.

Up till now, it’s largely the government making the rules, but I think the next phase will be the mob taking it into their own hands.

I’d feel a lot better if you can convince me why

I have it wrong. But, in the refrigerated interstate trucking space, we’re seeing a world of trouble out there, and I think it’s going to get a lot worse.

I think we need voices in the media calming the rhetoric down.

Anyone that’s stoking fear of Covid into a vaccinated person is a science denier and should be called out on it.

NSW fleet CEO

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10 HOT TOPICS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

HOT WEB TOPICS

WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO READER CORNER? EMAIL US AT EDITOR@BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Servo squalor

No jab, no job

Trucks grounded

SHOCKING pics from Caltex Gilgandra and reports Gunnedah Shell was refusing shower access to truckies got many fired up.

On Facebook, Jason Edmonds wrote, “No one should have to put up with that… no wonder people get sick.”

Geoff Thomson added, “I just caught 4 different diseases looking at these photos.”

Rhonda said, “I contacted Caltex, who tried to pass the buck.

They then told me it was because of the bore water. Might have worked... except for having spent 20 years in Queensland, on bore water.”

Brad Marshall commented, “That’s not the only one, there are too many being neglected.”

David Mackellar wrote, “The problem is that the majority of the mess is caused by a few grubs.”

COVID-19 vaccine mandates are leaving some interstate truckies facing an uncertain future, as the debate about mandatory vaccinations continues.

“I have previous blood clots and am on Apixaban lifetime. I still got both jabs with no problems after talking to my doctor. No side effects from the jab,” said Jimmy Lisa Darlow.

“Those who don’t think it’s needed also pose an increased risk to everyone else, by not having it,” wrote Rowie Dee. While Col Moore commented, “No one should be FORCED to get the jab, let alone FORCED to get the jab just to keep your job. Free to choose.”

POLICE and the NHVR recently ran a joint “truck roadworthiness” operation on the Princes Highway. Three trucks were grounded with defects including a cracked wheel, damaged tyres, a structurally unsound trailer and faulty brakes. A further eight trucks were deemed unroadworthy for minor defects that included cracked windscreens and poor lighting.

On Facebook, Daz Smith posed the question, “Please tell me HOW many trucks have had an accident from a cracked windscreen. Waiting.”

“And they wonder how these trucks become damaged. It’s the poor quality roads, so we should be able to claim repairs from the government I’d say,” wrote Craig Prosser.

“When are they going to make truckworthy roads?” added Tim Montague.

These pics show the conditions at Caltex in Gilgandra, NSW.

Some truckies are looking to switch from inter to intrastate work.

Highway Patrol Units removed three trucks from Victorian roads.

Six-point plan

Truckie charged

Have your say

The NRFA summarises six key issues holding the industry back.

The man drove his vehicle through this unmanned hard border.

Parts of Cunninghams Gap are being restored after 2019 bushfires.

THE National Road Freighters Association, a grass-roots body representing truckies and small-fleet operators, sent authorities what it believes is a roadmap to help the industry safely navigate its way through Covid. Among the suggestions were a temporary pause on non-road safety related logbook fines and a national freight permit.

Here’s what some of our readers had to say.

“I couldn’t disagree with that plan in any way shape or form…three day testing is difficult & not always achievable, especially if you have a 24hr break off the highway at the same time a test expires,” wrote Nigel Rutley.

While Karina Pappin added, “All for it. Hopefully they can get all these points passed!”

A 26-year-old man was charged after allegedly driving a prime mover through the Covid-19 border blockade on Keetah Bridge to enter Queensland from NSW. This comes after he was turned around at the Goondiwindi border checkpoint for failing to have evidence of a negative Covid-19 test.

“Stop the unnecessary unrealistic border closures and delays to trucks and this sort of behaviour will stop,” Tony Stephens said on the Big Rigs Facebook page.

“Frustration. There’ll be more of it happening. Time to wake up and get this country moving again,” wrote Sue Miller.

“Shows the frustration setting in. It won’t be the last incident,” said Barry Baker.

RECONSTRUCTION work at Cunninghams Gap is on track to start early next year and the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is asking for feedback to better understand how road users use the Gap via an online survey at yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/cunningham-gap-reconstruction-project.

On our Facebook page, Big Rigs readers shared their views.

“I never had any trouble using that bit of road in a single or a B-double,” wrote Jeffrey Weston.

“The Gaps fine, just need educated drivers,” said Brian Taylor.

“What’s the point they’ll do it as cheap as possible instead of doing it properly or it’ll be tolled too,” commented Daniel Barbary.

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NEWS 11

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Hydrogen-powered road trains on Townsville roads

HYDROGEN-POWERED triple road trains will soon be a familiar sight in and around the roads of the Townsville port.

Hyzon Motors said this week it had a confirmed order for five of the futuristic-looking 154-tonne trucks from Ark Energy, the Australian subsidiary of the world’s largest zinc, lead and silver producer, Korea Zinc.

Under the order, Hyzon is obligated to deliver the zero-emission vehicles to Ark Energy by the end of 2022.

In a media statement re-

Hyzon CEO Craig Knight.

leased this week, Hyzon said Ark Energy will lease the trucks to its sister company, Townsville Logistics, which will de-

ploy them in triple road train configurations as part of their short-haul fleet operating on a 30km loop from the Port of Townsville to the Sun Metals zinc refinery owned by the group.

The fuel cell trucks, replacing their diesel equivalents, are expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 1400 tonnes per year.

Hyzon expects to assemble the vehicles in Australia, aligning with the company’s plans to boost local Australian production of fuel cell vehicles.

Hyzon expects that the vehicles will be fueled at Ark Energy’s SunHQ hydrogen hub in Townsville, with green hydrogen produced from an electrolyzer powered by a co-located solar farm.

The project is expected to be the first in the world to use Hyzon’s ultra-heavy-duty fuel cell vehicles.

“Hyzon is the only hydrogen commercial mobility company that can meet our needs,” said Ark Energy CEO Daniel Kim. “Our fuel cell trucks need to be 154-tonnes rated, built

to Australian Design Rules and delivered by the end of next

year. That was the ultimate basis for placing this order.”

The project is expected to be the first in the world to use Hyzon’s ultra-heavy-duty fuel cell vehicles.

New facility for road train drivers opens at Qld port

TRIPLE road trains waiting to enter Townsville Port now have a new waiting area just outside the gates and the much-anticipated facility includes toilets and a shaded area.

The $4.5 million truck staging area officially opened last month, providing safer access for the 300,000 trucks that pass through the port gates each year.

Up to 20 triple road trains can assemble just outside the

main gates on Benwell Road at any one time, easing congestion and improving safety on surrounding roads.

Previously they had to wait at a heavy vehicle inspection and trailer hook up area 5km away along the Port Access Road.

A small number would even park beside the Reclaimed Land Road near the port gates.

The new purpose built 13,000 square metre com-

bined truck-trailer lay-up area has been under construction for some months.

It provides comforts for truck drivers including toilet amenities and shaded outdoor rest areas.

Queensland Trucking Association CEO Gary Mahon said he was pleased the port was providing a welcoming place for truck drivers where they can safely wait while vessels are loading.

“The safe and efficient operations of our Ports is vital to ensure export markets can continue to grow. This development will increase productivity and provide comforts to truck drivers who have been essential in keeping Queensland moving and industries operating throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mahon said.

Port of Townsville acting chief infrastructure officer An-

ton van Staden said the new truck staging area would reduce congestion on port roads, to improve efficiencies with increasing trade and cargo.

“Around 300,000 truck movements are recorded at the port each year, with much of the cargo handled through the port transported via road,” he said.

“During vessel loading trucks have queued along Port roads for extended periods,

disrupting traffic and posing potential safety risks. This new truck staging area will significantly reduce congestion.”

The area, which is in the process of being landscaped, caters for the breakdown and reassembly of road trains as required.

Only port authorised trucks will be allowed to access the facility, which includes lighting and surveillance cameras monitored by port security.

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12 COVER STORY

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Going from strength to strength in the west

Its people have grown Trojan Haulage into what it is today – and higher productivity vehicles are helping to steer the business into the future.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI THE Lumsden family has been involved in transport for decades. Their foray into the industry started when Murray and Roxy Lumsden moved to the small town of Varley in

WA’s Wheatbelt region. The plan was to buy a farm and work on the land, but that’s not quite how it worked out.

When a local fuel carrying business came up for sale, they decided to take a punt and purchase it – eventually form-

Callum Lumsden attributes the company’s growth to the great team he and the family have around them.

ing Varley Transport in 1985.

Their three sons Callum, Tyron and Justin have helped to build the business up and were instrumental in the family’s decision to purchase Trojan Haulage in 2018.

As Varley Transport moved

into agricultural transport, it sold its fuel distribution contracts in 2000. Eventually the family wanted to get back into fuel, and that’s where Trojan Haulage came in.

“Since we took over Trojan Haulage in 2018, we haven’t looked back,” said Callum.

Today Varley Transport continues to service the agricultural industry, while Trojan Haulage transports fuel for both the retail and mining sectors. The companies employ approximately 50 people between them.

Callum took a step away from the family business for a short while but was soon lured back and now heads up both companies as CEO. His brothers serve as operations manag-

Trojan Haulage runs everything from singles in the city, up to quad road trains in the Goldfields.

Pulled by a Volvo FH16, the new super pocket has a whopping 98,500-litre capacity.

Travelling the Great Central Road in WA’s outback.

ers – Justin at Trojan and Tyron at Varley.

“We’ve grown up with trucks and around trucks. As soon as we could get our truck licences, we did,” said Callum, 38, who got his MC licence at around the age of 20. Tyron and Justin got their licences early on too and are also both qualified heavy diesel fitters.

Trojan Haulage services metro, regional and remote WA, running everything from singles in the city, up to quad road trains in the Goldfields.

It operates out of facilities in Perth and Kalgoorlie.

Macks and Volvos are the company’s truck of choice,

with more trucks continually being added into the mix.

“The trucks servicing the Goldfields do a lot of off-road work and travel some really tough routes. But we’ve got a really good team of operators on board and the way they treat the trucks is why we get such a good run out of them. A lot of it is attributed to the way the team looks after the gear,” said Callum.

“We’ve got such a great team around us. Without them, we wouldn’t have a business.

They’ve been a massive part of our growth, not just recently, but since our inception.”

Continued Page 14

14 COVER STORY

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

New super pocket proving to be a game-changer

Key to the super pocket’s design is an additional three axles.

From Page 12 A recent addition to the fleet was a new Volvo FH16 and PBS-approved super pocket from Melbourne based tanker manufacturer Tieman.

The combination has been on the road since May and has been keeping busy, with 100,000km already on the clock.

Used for runs in and out of the Kwinana fuel terminal in Perth, Callum says it offers a

17 per cent payload gain over Trojan’s next biggest pocket road train.

“We were trying to maximise payload and efficiency, while maintaining a safe combination we could utilise across our network. The furthest it travels is about 700 kilometres from Perth,” Callum added.

While Trojan’s other pocket road trains are capable of carrying up to 84,000 litres,

the new super pocket has a 98,500-litre capacity, which is largely attributed to its three additional axles.

“We’re able to move more litres with fewer trucks in a safer and more efficient manner. Also, we can achieve similar payloads to a conventional C-train combination while operating a vehicle that is much safer on the road with better route access.”

The super pocket has a

Gross Combination Mass (GCM) of 116 tonnes and though Trojan has various other high GCM trucks in the fleet, the payload and access of the Tieman super pocket is unrivalled.

“The trailers track well, and the swept path mimics a traditional pocket road train. It is hard to get your head around it until you jump in and go for a drive. The way this combination handles is amazing, for big payloads these combinations are certainly the best way forward,” Callum said.

The choice of truck for the combination was an easy one, as Callum says Volvo is the preferred choice for cabovers in the fleet.

“Our cabovers are all Volvos – just for driver comfort, reliability, the safety features and the after sales service we receive from Truck Centre WA.” Along with the standard safety features, Trojan opts for Volvo’s additional safety package that includes the lane departure warning system, adaptive cruise control, collision avoidance assistance and blind spot detection.

For the past 18 months, all trucks coming into the fleet have also been equipped with

the Guardian Seeing Machine as an added safety feature.

Callum admits there was a lot of uncertainty from drivers when it was first introduced into Trojan’s trucks, but now they’ve come around.

“We’re finding the Seeing Machines to be really good and our drivers understand that they’re in the trucks for their own benefit as well as ours,” said Callum.

“It’s been proven time and time again that the technology is really worthwhile for us.

It’s being added to any new trucks. I see it as a really important safety feature for our drivers.”

Over the next six months, more new Volvos are set to join the Trojan fleet, along

with some new tanker combinations too.

“We’ll definitely keep adding more and trailers to the fleet into the future. Our business is always looking to grow and make the most of any opportunities that come up,” Callum said.

“We try to align ourselves with like-minded companies, and build our business around them.

“We’re very old school in our approach and believe that service is a massive part of what we do, so we bend over backwards to make sure we go above and beyond for all our clients – and the team we’ve got around us is making that happen, helping to facilitate our growth and to manage it.”

Macks and Volvos are the company’s trucks of choice.

Insurance exemption to help industry, customers

THE trucking industry has secured an important exemption from new rules for addon insurance that will help the industry and its customers, say the peak bodies lobbying for the exclusion.

The new rules prohibit the sale of add-on insurance for at least four days after a customer has purchased a product or service. But addon transport and delivery insurance, including insurance for storage along the way, will be exempt.

The Australian Trucking Association (ATA), Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA) and the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA) welcomed the confirmation of the exclusion.

ATA CEO Michael Deegan said that it was a win for common sense, and thanked Treasurer Josh Frydenberg for his consultation and listening to industry.

“Consumers need to be protected from unscrupulous businesses. At the same time, this must be achieved in a way that optimises choice,

minimises red tape, and does not impede efficient freight flow or induce good businesses to take unnecessary risks,” Deegan said.

“After considering the implications of restricted availability of add on insurance products, our members argued strongly for an exemption, and having sought sound legal advice, we also recommended that the draft exemption be extended to cover incidental storage that may occur as part of the transport task.

ALRTA Executive Director Mat Munro said the exemption accommodated the practical needs of the livestock supply chain.

“Our member carriers often move livestock at short notice and may need to unload and ‘spell’ animals during the journey to manage driver fatigue and animal welfare,” Munro said.

“In these circumstances, carriers may require add-on transport and incidental storage insurance which must be arranged at the same time as accepting the load. Livestock

sold under auction conditions is particularly problematic because neither the owner, value or destination are known prior to sale.

“This exemption will ensure that carriers are able to obtain add-on insurance quickly and easily. Choice is maintained and freight will not be delayed. When you are moving live animals, you simply cannot wait four days to acquire an appropriate addon insurance product.”

AFRA Executive Director Simone Hill said the regulations were a win for removals clients, and AFRA were pleased to see this practical and workable outcome.

“Moving can be a fraught experience, a time of upheaval and change. During a move, a client’s entire world of personal and household belongings is shipped from one place to another,” Hill said.

“Should anything happen to those items due to disaster or mishap, it is imperative for a person’s financial and mental wellbeing that they are adequately insured.

“These regulations ensure

moving clients can secure appropriate financial protection, and in turn peace of mind when moving.”

The Australian Government is introducing what is called the deferred sales model in response to a recommenda-

tion of the Financial Services Royal Commission.

The new rules come into force on October 5.

The insurance exemption accommodated the practical needs of the livestock supply chain.

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16 NEWS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Jab rule forces Victorian interstate truckies to quit

Chris Goodwin’s treasured 1979 Kenworth W Model loaded up for a recent return trip from Adelaide.

CHRIS Goodwin wants to get one thing straight from the outset: he’s not taking his anti-vax stand to start a revolution.

The veteran of 41 years behind the wheel called it quits on his 60th birthday earlier last month in a one-man protest at the mandatory jab rules for interstate truckies that were due to come into play in Victoria on September 23.

“A lot of blokes feel like we’re out here on our own and

they could read this and think, ‘Oh, we’re not the only ones,” said Goodwin.

“This bloke has been in the game for this long and he’s standing against it, and hopefully that will give them some encouragement.”

Goodwin, part of an iconic Victorian trucking clan that harks back to the bullock team days, admits it wasn’t easy to park up his treasured 1979 Kenworth W Model for the last time.

Chris was grateful for the support he got from Gemma in making his stand.

Rock-hard fit and the healthy for his age after a lifetime of flat top work and tarping, Wallan-based Goodwin had spent the last half a dozen years as a contractor for Milltech Martin Bright, mainly running to South Australia and back.

He loved everything about the job; the camaraderie of his fellow truckies, and the flexibility and freedom that went with it, that invigorating sense of running your own race.

Until the arrival of Delta and all arduous regimes that have come with it, he could have seen himself still doing the role well into his seventies.

“That’s why this decision is so difficult; you’re no longer running your own race.

“You’re going to do what they tell you to do, and I don’t want to rely on authorities to inject a substance into me that I don’t want.”

From a financial standpoint, Goodwin knows he may well be shooting himself in the foot.

The road freight industry has been good to him and enabled he and wife Gemma to put three children through private

schools and set themselves up for a comfortable retirement.

“But what’s the alternative?

The alternative is that we just submit.”

Goodwin admits he won’t miss the over-regulation of the industry.

“They don’t see a truck coming down the road anymore.

They see an ATM and they’ll just pull it up and make a withdrawal.

“Long gone are the days when a walloper would pull you up and say, ‘you have a bit of an oil leak there, can you address that?’

“They don’t do that anymore: she’s an instant fine.”

Even so, Goodwin says there is still a certain amount of trepidation about what the future now holds.

He’s in the privileged position of owning his own gear and plans to sell it all off, bit by bit, until there is just the ’79 W Model left.

“If things haven’t turned around by then, I suppose that will be the end of it.

“I could be wrong, and it might all blow over and this time next year it could be good,

but I’m a little bit pessimistic about this at the moment.

“This is a tragedy, that’s what it is.”

Clinton Relf parked up his in-law’s Kenworth T404 SAR two days before Goodwin signed off for similar reasons.

Running under his own CRJ Trucking shingle, Banella-based Relf, 35, had been subbing for a bloke in Wangaratta before he made the toughest decision of his working life to take a stand against the mandatory jab rule.

“It was mainly for the moral and ethical side of things,” said Relf, who had been earning the best money he’d ever made in nearly 10 years an intestate truckie.

“The fact that they’re trying to force us to have something, and you can’t make an informed consent to something that’s so new and still in the trial stage.”

Even though he had support of his partner and family, and already has plans to build a shed on his property and pivot into the polishing game, Relf also admits the decision to leave driving was not easy.

“I didn’t want to leave to be honest, but if I don’t stand up for my rights, or even those of my six-year-old son, then I don’t know if I could be happy with myself, just laying down.

“I’m in a good position here where I can have a choice. I really feel sorry for people who have been put in a position in which they don’t have one.”

His message to all truckies is make your voices count.

“We’ve been going to these hotspots in Sydney and Melbourne for so long, and we’ve got some f other strictest testing requirements, yet bugger all of us have got it, so just hang in there.

“People power I reckon, strength in numbers. If you’re not happy about it, make it known.”

Clinton Relf washes the Kenworth T404 SAR for the last time.

Transport bodies call for national Covid testing sites THE nation’s peak trucking bodies are calling on the Australian Government to establish Covid testing points, in a bid to reduce test result waiting times and support vaccination requirements.

The proposal put forward by the ATA and its state and territory members recommendeds 24-hour Covid testing sites be set up at Port Augusta in South Australia and at the NT border control point at the Barkly Highway Roadhouse in the Northern Territory.

“These are just two points at which nearly all national east-west road freight movements must pass through,” ATA CEO Michael Deegan said late last month.

“These sites would also protect the north-south route from Port Augusta to Darwin.”

This comes after a recent incident involving delayed test results.

“Recently we saw the example of two truck drivers testing positive in WA. They had completed a Covid test in NSW, but the results had taken three days to process,” explained CEO of Western Roads Federation Cam Dumesny.

“Similar delays are occurring with tests carried out in Katherine, Northern Territory where road freight drivers are forced to attend the local hospital to get tested for compliance purposes. Results can take three days to be processed.”

Also, part of the proposal is that the sites be accessible at all times, with on-site staff capable of administering vaccines and returning test results quickly.

“To meet their mandatory testing obligations and reduce the risk of unwittingly transmitting Covid across borders, road freight drivers must have access to 24-hour testing facilities,” said executive officer of the NT Road Transport Association, Louise Bilato.

“There has been too much reliance on truck drivers getting Covid tests and vaccinations done in hospital and medical clinics that only take bookings 8am – 4pm on weekdays. It is increasingly hazardous.”

SARTA CEO Steve Shearer added that operating interstate road freight in the Covid era is a national challenge.

“It is essential that the Australian Government assists the states and territories by funding key vaccination and testing facilities that service interstate road freight drivers so we can continue to sustain the community and the economy,” Shearer said.

Queensland Trucking Association CEO Gary Mahon agreed.

“The QTA continues to strongly advocate for more consistent cross border testing requirements and would support the establishment of testing centres situated on the key

freight route locations to allow truck drivers to perform the essential service of delivering freight in a more timely and seamless way,” Mahon said.

“We also advocate for a reduction in the frequency

of testing required for fully vaccinated truck drivers, with rapid antigen testing the preferred option. PCR tests should only be needed in the event of a positive rapid antigen test.”

The association recommends that a testing site be set up at the NT border control point at the Barkly Highway Roadhouse in the Northern Territory.

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18 OPERATOR PROFILE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Perfect 10 for Dandenong Mercedes-Benz Actros fan

VFS Operations Director, Chris Collins, says the Actros’s fuel efficiency is second-to-none.

VFS was established in 1998 by experienced transport experts John Rowe and Roland Neef.

VICTORIAN Freight Specialists has added a 10th Mercedes-Benz Actros to its Dandenong-based fleet.

The special 2663 is dedicated to one of the company’s founders, John Rowe, whose name is displayed as part of the truck’s custom livery.

VFS bought one of the very first new generation Actros trucks in 2016 and immediately recorded fuel savings worth tens of thousands of dollars a year.

VFS operations director, Chris Collins, says the company has been very pleased with

driver training, using knowledge passed on from Mercedes-Benz truck driver trainers in order to get the best possible performance and economy out of the trucks.

It also monitors a lot of data to keep driving down fuel consumption.

“Everything helps and it’s all about the little details,” Collins said.

Safety is a high priority at VFS and the fully-integrated active safety systems of the Actros are appreciated.

These include Advanced Emergency Braking System

the performance of the Actros trucks it has steadily added to its fleet, as well as the support from Whitehorse Truck Centre and salesman, Mitchell Hynd.

“The Actros has been an absolute weapon for our business.

They are a great bit of gear and the fuel efficiency is just second to none,” Collins said.

“We ran a lot of tests in the early days and there was just nothing that could compete with it and that’s still the case today.”

VFS continues to focus on fuel economy and gives all its new drivers comprehensive

The 2663 features a 16-litre six-cylinder Euoro 6 engine with 625hp and 3000Nm of torque.

(AEBS) and Lane Departure Warning System.

“The truck comes with so much of the safety features already, which is really reassuring for our business,” Collins said.

“We want to operate the safest equipment possible as part of our commitment to our drivers, depot staff, customers and members of the public.”

VFS also goes a step further and integrates a range of cameras, which help demonstrate what is happening in the event of an incident.

High-resolution Multimedia Cockpit tablet screens,

which come standard with Actros, and high levels of comfort and refinement are all appreciated by the drivers.

“As soon as you climb in, you just think, “Yeah, this is just fantastic”,” Collins said.

“It is just like sitting in a luxury car.”

The 2663 features a 16-litre six-cylinder Euoro 6 engine with 625hp and 3000Nm of torque, which is teamed with a 12-speed fully automated transmission.

Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to introduce Euro 6 emission ratings for all

its models in 2016, something that more and more customers are demanding from operators.

VFS was established in 1998 by experienced transport experts John Rowe and Roland Neef.

It has grown steadily and currently employs around 170 people directly, plus more than 200 sub-contractors and services Victoria, Southern NSW, Mt Gambier in South Australia and the ACT. Pull quote: “The Actros has been an absolute weapon for our business,” VFS operations director, Chris Collins.

High-resolution Multimedia Cockpit tablet screens, which come standard with Actros, and high levels of comfort and refinement are all appreciated by the drivers.

Fuso breaks 500hp barrier with new Shogun for Australia FUSO will break through the 500hp barrier with a 13-litre Shogun set to arrive in Australia this month.

With a potent 510hp and 2500Nm, it will be the best performing Japanese truck in Australia with a big torque advantage, promises its makers.

The Shogun 510 will increase the breadth of the Fuso Shogun prime mover and rigid model range that already includes 8-litre and 11-litre options, added Fuso Austalia in a media statement today.

It was developed for Fuso

Australia in response to requests from local customers for a true high-performance Japanese heavy-duty B-double capable truck and has been several years in the planning.

The proven Daimler OM471 six-cylinder engine hits its maximum power at 1600rpm and its prodigious maximum torque is available from just 1100rpm for maximum driveability and efficiency.

A Daimler 12-spead fully automated transmission (AMT) makes the most of the engine’s strength.

The advanced six-cylinder unit, which features an asymmetric turbocharger, meets stringent Euro 6 emissions standards, well in advance of Australian regulations.

Fuso engineers have carried out extensive testing of the Shogun 510 since 2017, including an outback Australian test of an initial prototype, durability testing in South Africa and an additional production-ready test in Australia and New Zealand.

More information will follow closer to the Shogun 510 launch.

The Shogun 510 will increase the breadth of the Fuso Shogun prime mover and rigid model range.

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20 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Not your average truckie

Trucking and modelling don’t often go hand in hand, but this enterprising young SA driver has found a way to do both.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI BLAYZE Williams didn’t originally set out to be a truck driver, but after discovering her passion for it, the Adelaide truckie and social media influencer has encouraged numerous other women to get behind the wheel too.

Williams, 29, got her truck licence while working at a service station truck wash when she was 18. “They changed the rules and you had to have a truck licence so you could move the trucks. I was terrified at first, I didn’t even know how to drive a manual car at the time,” she said. “So I kind of fell into truck driving.”

Williams was recently named the 2021 Miss Ink Australia winner. Photo: Gotcha By Karl Photography

Within 12 months, Williams had scored her first driving gig. “Kwikwing Trans gave me my first start. The first time I ever went out in a truck by myself I was absolutely terrified. I started out moving empty shipping containers, then full ones and went on to work for Toll doing general freight.”

But an injury put her on the sidelines for some time and she had to give up her role with Toll. “I broke my leg. It was supposed to be a three-month recovery but turned out to be a permanent injury. It happened in 2018 and I wasn’t able to start driving again until the end of 2019. That’s when I

After a broken leg put her on the sidelines for some time, Williams is now getting into interstate work. Photo: A&C Images

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FEATURE 21

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Williams has built quite the online following. Photo: A&C Images

Williams has been successfully combining her roles as a truckie and a social media influencer. Photo: Soul Creator Photography

me the guts to go through with it’.

“Truck driving has changed my whole life. It’s put me in a position where I can really enjoy the trucks,

while having another income.

“I liked that I could just be me in the truck and found that I really fit in. Yes, you’re working outside mainly with men and the hours can push

you to the limits, but in general the people I’ve worked with are very inclusive. Nearly everywhere I’ve been, there’s been people willing to help – I’ve only ever had a few male

I love the freedom and the confidence truck driving has given me. No matter what type of person you are, there is a part of trucking that you will fit into. And if you don’t want to fit in, you can get in your truck and be in there on your own too.”

Williams is now hoping she can inspire even more women to get into the industry. “With trucking, women can find a life they never knew and see things they’ve never seen. With everything I’ve been through in my life, trucking was an escape for me. Now I’m working towards buying my own truck – I’d love a Peterbilt or a Kenworth T909, chromed up to the hills.”

This Peterbilt is known as ‘The Memphis Flash’. Photo: A&C Images

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started doing interstate work.

I spent two years in a moon boot and couldn’t physically use a clutch because I didn’t have the strength in that leg,” said Williams, who upgraded to a MC licence just a few months ago.

Though the injury meant her driving career was put on hold, it gave Williams a chance to focus on her modelling career, where she’s now built quite the profile, both in Australia and abroad. Quite recently she also won the Miss Ink Australia title.

Her Instagram profile now has over 70,000 followers and she’s also making a very comfortable living by selling her photos via subscription-based social media platform OnlyFans – though her love of trucks has stayed strong.

“I went from working 1013 hours a day, then I broke my leg and went to nothing.

I’ve now tied the driving and modelling together – that’s become my niche and it’s really taken off,” Williams said.

“Through that I’ve also helped many women around the world get into the trucking industry. A lot of women have approached me and asked what it’s like as a truck driver and what it was like working with all these men – and many came back to me and said ‘thanks, you gave

drivers who wouldn’t give me the time of day.”

Williams says that being forced off the road for so long has given her a new appreciation for the rigs. “After I broke my leg, I got that real appreciation back for the trucks. I thought that the injury would ruin me financially because I had to give up my job with Toll. But now I’m getting into interstate work and I really enjoy that.

The longest run I’ve done so far is Adelaide to Sarina in Queensland, hauling an oversize load.

“When I started doing interstate runs, I thought I wouldn’t like it at first, but I feel so free on the highway. In the truck, that’s your space.

22 SPONSORED CONTENT INSURANCE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Helping truckies to keep the wheels turning

AS someone whose day-today tasks are longer than five dog trailers put together, having a good support team can make a world of difference.

Like drivers who don’t speed up to overtake the moment you flick that indicator, or shippers and receivers who adhere to time that doesn’t eat into your driving hours – it’s good to have people who are in sync with you so you can focus on doing your part in getting the job done.

Ideally, you’d like to have this applied in other areas too. Insurance, for instance.

You know you need it, but what’s to love about being overwhelmed by the variety of choices that are out there?

Considerations like which insurer you should go with, cost versus cover, business insurance inclusion and so on.

We know we can’t do your job for you, but we can take the load off where it matters.

It can be a lonely journey on the road, but it doesn’t have to be like that when you’re looking to get covered. Ryno has been around for 15 years but our ties with truckies go back almost four decades. Safe to say we have a deep-rooted understanding of the owner driver industry and the demands that come with running your own business. To us, our truckies are like family, and when it comes to family, we give a little extra care. Your business becomes our business, and the insurance package that we present to you is carefully put together to ensure it addresses the specific needs of your business. We don’t believe in a cookie-cutter solution for our customers. After all, no two businesses are alike.

There are many reasons why Ryno is different, and one that we pride ourselves on is that we fight for the best interests of our customers, not the insurer. It’s a trait that’s hard to come by these days especially when there are so many parties to please. However, we know that there are already plenty of uncertainties when you’re out on the road that it’s good to know you have someone on the home front who will act on your behalf at a moment’s notice. As a family business, our top priority is our customers. Our team deals with each customer directly, so you’ll know our names and we’ll know yours.

One of Ryno’s first few truckies to come on board is Frank Evans, a one-man show who tows trucks and trailers across Brisbane on his Kenworth T401. He had a bizarre encounter where someone climbed onto the front of his truck while he was stopped at a traffic light.

Thankfully she wasn’t hurt, but you can imagine the numerous possibilities of how it could’ve ended badly. We’re sure there are wilder stories out there, but you catch our drift. In Evans’s case, should the unexpected happen, preventing him from continuing his journey, he can rest assured his business and livelihood are protected.

It’s industrious people like Evans that drives Ryno to do the very best we can for them.

In his many years in the owner driver industry, Ryno’s founder and CEO, Greg Rynenberg, raves about his experience working with truckies. “Truckies are a

Evans in action. Ryno ensures he can truck on with confidence with the appropriate cover.

Frank Evans, one of Ryno’s valuable clients, poses proudly with his dutiful 1999 Kenworth.

no-nonsense group of people who are hardworking, genuine and loyal. It’s a privilege to be part of their team where I can guide and help them through a maze of insurance options.” And with

this in mind, Ryno made sure it applied the no-frills approach to how it packages solutions for its customers and their businesses.

Ryno is working towards big aspirations and one day,

Insurance that’s here for the long haul.

Steady, reliable, and always there for you – these are just a few words to describe your trusty rig.

The same could be said about the team at Ryno Insurance.

Our team is well-versed in the owner driver industry because we know how important it is to work with people who can help carry the weight. We take the time getting to know you and your business to find a cover that’s suitable. Our truckie customers are like family, and we will do what we can to make sure they’re well looked after.

Looking for insurance that speaks your language? Scan the QR code for a quote!

10 and on the side.

1300 650 670 | hello@rynoinsurance.com.au Ryno Insurance is a specialist division of East West Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd. ABN 83 010 630 092, AFS Licence No. 230041.

we hope to become Australia’s number one owner driver specialist.

It’s all work-in-progress but looking at how we started and where we are now, we are confident that Ryno

is well on the way. In the meantime, we’ll continue to be the voice for our truckies in navigating the world of insurance and will do what we can to help take some weight off their shoulders.

510HP THERE WILL BE TORQUE TH E ALL- N EW S H OGU N 510

Introducing the all-new 13 Litre Shogun 510, the most powerful Japanese HD truck in Australia.

A truck that combines the best of Daimler technology with Japanese reliability, and a suite of class-leading safety features.

With 2500Nm available from just 800rpm the Shogun 510 delivers big torque for those with big jobs to do.

Available in prime-mover and tipper spec, the Shogun is not only the most powerful – but the safest – with Advanced Emergency Braking including pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, driver fatigue management and adaptive LED headlights – all covered by a class leading 5yr/500,000km warranty.

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*Approximate figures. Detailed power/torque curve available on spec sheet.

24 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Fairytale success for city sisters at outback truck stop

The duo place a strong emphasis on customer service and have developed a great rapport with their staff and customers.

Moving to Morven was a huge change for Mary and Laura Josey. Photo: Facebook

MOVING from Brisbane to the outback and taking over a local truck stop was a big gamble for these sisters, but it’s one that has well and truly paid off.

Laura Josey, 29, and Mary Josey, 26, grew up in Brisbane and made the move to

Morven in March 2018 to begin a new adventure – and life away from the city is certainly suiting them both.

A town of just 250 people, Morven is located about eight hours west of Brisbane, less than an hour from Charleville and about two

Some visitors head past the truck stop, which is eight hours west of Brisbane.

The sisters have doubled the truck stop’s turnover since taking over the business.

hours from Roma.

Mary and Laura’s parents had bought the freehold of the local service station and had the place leased. But it didn’t work out. “Taking over the truck stop wasn’t the initial plan – our parents asked if we could take over the truck stop. We literally had just three days notice. It all happened very, very quickly,” said Laura.

“It was such a big change to move out here from Brisbane. It’s a whole different world – everyone is so much more relaxed, the truckies are all so friendly, our customers and staff are always willing to help, and the community has been great too.”

Since taking over the Morven Truck Stop, the sisters have been able to double their turnover. “There’s been so much growth and there’s still room for improvement too,” Laura said.

“That growth has come thanks to our staff and our customers. Because we came in without the technical expertise of running a truck stop or service station, we really focused on offering great customer service. The staff are always on our level and know what we’re thinking.

Just having that rapport with our staff and customers has made a really big difference.”

The sisters recently added a rural store to the back of the

truck stop and are planning on making other upgrades in the near future. “People have been asking us to upgrade the amenities, so we’re going to get some new showers and toilets. The ones we have are 30 or so years old, so they’re still working fine, but we want to give the space some TLC,” Laura added.

Along with finding success through the Morven Truck Stop, Mary has found love too and got married last month.

She met Duncan McNair after he made numerous visits to the truck stop. “He was coming in and straight out ignoring Mary. We thought he hated her,” laughed Laura “Then we went to a rodeo in Charleville and my partner and I were talking to Duncan and it turned out he was just really shy. They started going out after the rodeo and he proposed on Christmas Day last year,” explained Laura.

Though she’s still involved with the Morven Truck Stop, Mary has made the move to Quilpie to be with her husband, where she’s started another business venture – a coffee van that sits within a converted horse float.

“Mary’s little coffee van in Quilpie is something she’s wanted to do for ages. We often get people stopping here, then stopping in Quilpie, which is about three

hours away,” said Laura.

When the girls first moved to Morven, the truck stop and motel, along with a pub that burned down a few years prior, were all there was for those visiting the town.

Since then, Morven is experiencing continued growth and development, with a new pub now open, along with a grocery store, a mechanic workshop and a hairdresser opening soon too.

Mary also found love through the Morven Truck Stop, pictured with her new husband Duncan McNair.

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26 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Bluewater keeps doors open despite bumpy Covid ride

Truckies can always rely on this outback oasis for a home-cooked meal and a welcoming place to recharge their batteries.

Geoff and Melissa share the cooking duties and have become renowned for their home-cooked food.

BY ALF WILSON LIFE has changed dramatically for Bluewater Springs Roadhouse owners Geoff and Melissa Bolster since the coronavirus pandemic hit the headlines in 2019.

The couple has been running the Queensland outback roadhouse, located 120km outside of Charters Towers, for the past 15 years and are well known and respected in the road transport industry.

“Some years before coronavirus we would get between 35 and 70 trucks a day pulling up here. But now most times it is just a few a day and they are mainly owner-drivers,” Geoff told Big Rigs.

But the roadhouse still

looks after truckies providing facilities such as clean showers, toilets and a dining room with a menu to suit the taste buds of everybody.

In fact, Melissa, 61, and Geoff, 65, share the cooking duties and have become renowned for their homecooked food.

“We have become famous for our hamburgers and provide coffee for our truckie customers,” Geoff said.

Geoff said the roadhouse was shut for three months in 2019 when Covid-19 first made headlines and when many parts of the country were in lockdown.

This year Geoff and Melissa had to close the doors for several days to travel to Townsville for a Covid-19 test which came back negative.

“SOME YEARS BEFORE CORONAVIRUS WE WOULD GET BETWEEN 35 AND 70 TRUCKS A DAY PULLING UP HERE.” GEOFF BOLSTER

“We had symptoms such as a cough, sore throats and runny noses and there had been caravan travellers from NSW and Victoria stopping here so we had to be tested,” he said.

The roadhouse also lost business for months in 2019 and this year when the Hervey’s Range Road was closed whilst work was done due to landslides.

The roadhouse had been kept afloat because of contractors working in the area, locals and travellers.

That impacted the number of people coming from Townsville.

Whilst business is much quieter these days due to Covid concerns Geoff said the roadhouse had been kept afloat because of contractors working in the area, locals, and travellers.

For locals, Bluewater Springs is the “social centre’ of the region even though the couple handed in their liquor license about seven years ago.

“In the area around here live about 80 people on stations and many come here.

We let the liquor licence go because it wasn’t cost effective. People enjoy a meal in our dining room,” he said.

Geoff said that roadhouse proprietors faced problems with many would-be patrons who refused to abide by government Covid-19 regulations.

“A lot won’t sign in, so we just don’t serve them which costs us business. But we abide by all regulations here and will continue to do so,” Geoff said.

The Charters Towers to Lynd section of the Gregory Development Road where the roadhouse sits is an important inland route for trucks and motorists as it provides a link from the south to the Atherton Tablelands and beyond.

It is also a vital alternative route when the coastal Bruce Highway is closed due to floods or accidents.

“That generally occurs a few times a year,” Geoff said.

However, it used to be considered a ‘goat track’ by many and back in 2009 an “Action Group” met at Bluewater Springs to lobby the Government to upgrade it.

It has been the scene of numerous fatalities and serious accidents and was narrow and had no road shoulders on most parts.

The roadhouse is now up for sale at the modest sum of $380,000.

Truckies from near and far gather at the Bluewater for one of the best feeds in the area.

Present at that meeting was then Queensland Transport Minister Craig Wallace and about 80 concerned people including graziers, council representatives, business owners and others.

Since then, the route has been progressively upgraded to mostly double lane highway with just a 10km section to be widened.

“It is better than most of the Bruce Highway and much safer to drive on,” Geoff said.

The nearest roadhouses are at Greenvale about 95km away, and Oasis which is 50km further on along the Hann Highway near the Lynd Junction.

“We don’t keep an eye on what other roadhouses are doing and concentrate on running our own,” he said.

Geoff is also regarded as a genuine Good Samaritan in the area and is called on

by police to attend accidents and to identify victims.

Every September the population around Bluewater Springs swells by several thousand when the popular Ewan Amateur Race Meeting is held.

“The racetrack is just 1.2km from our roadhouse and we do get people from there stopping here. But not as many afterwards as the police do roadside breath tests,” he said.

As much as they enjoy the peaceful life there, however, Geoff and Melissa are calling time due to health issues and the desire to be closer to young grandkids.

The roadhouse is now up for sale at the modest sum of $380,000.

“It would suit a younger couple with heaps of energy,” said Geoff.

If a sale is made, they will be sadly missed.

The Charters Towers to Lynd section of the Gregory Development Road where the roadhouse sits is an important inland route for trucks.

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28 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Retired truckie keeps memories of the past alive I WORKED FOR KWIKASAIR AT AROUND THE TIME KENWORTH STARTED TO REALLY MAKE A NAME FOR ITSELF IN AUSTRALIA. WHEN THEY BROUGHT OUT THE K125S, THEY WERE VERY FAST TRUCKS AND HAD QUITE A REPUTATION OUT ON THE HIGHWAY... OUR LINEHAUL MANAGER WAS VERY PARTICULAR ABOUT TRUCK PRESENTATION AND DRIVER PRESENTATION. EVEN BACK IN THE 60S, WE WERE SUPPOSED TO WEAR A TIE.”

Retired from trucking, Hall now drives buses and coaches.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI BOB Hall, 78, is playing his part to keep the memories of Kwikasair and its fleet of Kenworth K125 ‘Grey Ghosts’ alive.

Hall describes Kwikasair as a very professional outfit.

Though the business eventually faded after being bought out, the comradery that was formed among those associat-

ed with the company still continues today.

A reunion held around 10 years ago attracted roughly 120 people and though there were hopes to hold one again, Sydney’s Covid restrictions and lockdowns have put a spanner in the works.

So Hall decided to take a different approach and has begun selling commemorative polo shirts instead.

Kenworth introduced its

BOB HALL

first Australian made truck in 1971, in the form of a K125CR cabover, nicknamed the Grey Ghost.

Hall worked for Kwikasair from the mid 1960s through to the mid 1970s, when many of these Grey Ghosts were coming into the Sydney based transport company’s fleet.

“I worked for Kwikasair at around the time Kenworth started to really make a name for itself in Australia. When

Bob Hall drives the Grey Ghost on its maiden trip in early 1971, with Kwikasair linehaul manager John Watt in the passenger seat.

they brought out the K125s, they were very fast trucks and had quite a reputation out on the highway,” Hall said.

“Our linehaul manager was very particular about truck presentation and driver presentation. Even back in the 60s, we were supposed to wear a tie when we were driving the trucks.

“Kwikasair also had a safety program called Sights on Safety, where, if you behaved yourself on the highway and had no complaints, at the end of the month, you were rewarded with points that had a dollar value, so you could save your points and get something like a fridge or tv. It was a way of rewarding people for their courteousness on the highway.”

After around a decade with Kwikasair, Hall moved into local work, driving concrete trucks around metropolitan Sydney for close to 30 years.

Though he’s been retired since 1996, it’s hard to keep him off the road. “Old truck drivers never retire,” he said. “I now drive buses and coaches on a casual basis a few days a week.”

Reflecting on an important time in his driving career, Hall said, “A lot of older drivers are still around. Some we’ve lost, but their families are very interested in trying to keep the history of the trucks and the company alive.”

When we shared his story on our Facebook page, it brought back memories for many of our readers too.

“I too am a retired truckie and can remember these kwikasair Grey Ghosts flying passed me as if I were standing still – great memory. Most times always two of them and nose to tail! Literally,” wrote Andrew Miszko.

“You could never forget them, lights behind you one second and gone the next,” commented Robert Nolan.

“How could anyone who drove trucks back then forget them running the new England to Sydney. Headlights behind me flashing, tail lights in front of me. Then nothing, gone!” wrote Robert Fox. The commemorative polo

Hall behind the wheel of a Grey Ghost in the early 1970s.

A Grey Ghost at Kwikasair’s Alexandria depot in Sydney.

shirts have been designed in a platinum grey to match the old Grey Ghosts, with the ‘K125’ and ‘Grey Ghost’ text in royal blue to match the colour of the fleet numbers, along with the Kwikasair logo.

“We were hoping to hold another reunion prior to Covid hitting, so what we’ve decided to do is have these polos made. We’re doing them at cost, so we’re not making any money out of it. There are quite a few drivers who are no longer with us who had sons who got involved in transport, and they have been very interested in what we’re doing too,” Hall added.

“All we’re trying to do is keep the history and the

memory of what it was like in those days alive. Kwikasair was one of the first companies that started overnight express from Sydney to Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. And it was the first that would do driver changeover services too,” he recalled.

“There were a lot of those K125s in the fleet and they kept new trucks coming all the time. The polos are a way to show among the trucking fraternity that you were associated in some way with Kwikasair and the K125.”

To order one of the commemorative polos, email vjhall@macarthurgardens. com.au with Grey Ghosts in the subject line.

The polo shirt has been made in platinum grey to match the old Grey Ghosts.

A SMALL STEP ON OUR PATH TO CHANGE FROM 2021, ALL CASTROL PRODUCTS WE SELL IN AUSTRALIA WILL BE

COMMITTED TO CARBON NEUTRALITY IN ACCORDANCE WITH PAS 2060** A SMALL STEP TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

* **

in accordance with PAS 2060, see www.castrol.com/cneutral for more information.

The C02e emissions are calculated in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol’s Product Life Cycle Standard and includes life cycle emissions. The demonstration of carbon neutrality will be assured by an Independent Third-Party and certified to BSI’s PAS 2060 carbon neutral specification. See www.castrol.com/cneutral for more information.

30 READER RIGS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

A brightly coloured rig brings a pop of colour to this shot taken by Justin Lewis between Port Douglas and Cairns.

As spring begins, this canola blooms. Kyle Nicholas-Benney snapped this shot near Donald, Victoria.

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

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

The Big Rigs #PicOfTheDay competition is a chance

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

So get snapping and keep those great pics coming!

Alan Moore snapped a great shot of this Western Star in Coober Pedy, SA, ready to head back to Adelaide.

Carting diesel for Directhaul, Trent Hearn captured this great photo near Karumba, Queensland.

John Mulder or Mulder Haulage shared this ripper shot, while carrying a rather large load.

An awesome aerial shot sent in by Jeremy Congram of this Kenworth T909 bound for WA.

Nathan Brock snapped this beauty at Tanami Downs, NT, after delivering to a mine.

Matthew Klitscher tips out a load of lime near Griffith, NSW.

READER RIGS 31

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Another great shot sent in by Kev Cameron of his 2003 Western Star, taken on a farm near Corowa, NSW.

Bromley Nitschke snapped this shot on the first evening of spring, hauling grain from the Mallee.

Dan Crichton makes a quick stop while travelling across the Nullarbor.

That sky – what a shot sent in by Tom Bromley after loading cotton seed at Wee Waa, NSW.

Mick Winning travelled to the Telfer Gold Mine in the east Pilbara, while carting copper concentrate back to Port Hedland.

This Kerden Haulage Kenworth T601 gets loaded up at sunset.

Thanks for sharing Imogen Radburn.

Nobby Smith’s Kenworth T900 Legend #44 all washed and shined up for a week’s rest.

Haydes Hinks shared this early morning Kenworth T950 shot, loaded with a Caterpillar D10N on the float.

John Bellam and this R&K Bulk Haulage Kenworth T909 A-double load up with barley for the feedlots, just south of Collarenebri, NSW.

Josh Beattie was travelling through Telfer in WA’s Great Sandy Desert in this 1989 International S-Line, carrying bagged and bulk cement.

32 AD FEATURE KEEP IT COOL

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

A heavy-duty cooling success story

AROUND a decade ago, Adrad introduced ADFUSE as a premium, aftermarket heavy duty radiator core option for industrial cooling applications. Manufactured

in Australia, this superior strength radiator design has become one of Adrad’s most successful products.

Using welded bonds rather than soldered, ADFUSE

bonds provide extra protection against extreme heat and stresses from thermal expansion, vibration and pressure. These stresses ordinarily cause soldered joints

ADFUSE Adbot high precision welding.

The ADFUSE welded core radiator uses welded bonds rather than soldered.

to fail over time, resulting in reduced life span and unnecessarily increased downtime.

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

For extreme precision, ADFUSE uses a computer-controlled robot that is able to perform welding with an accuracy of <0.1mm, while welding each tube in less than two seconds. Addi-

tionally, ADFUSE uses solder backfill on each weld for added reinforcement. This allows the radiator to better withstand the demanding conditions in hard-working vehicles. The welded tubeto-header joins also protect against high temperature and corrosion.

ADFUSE cores are available in 5/8” and Ultra-T configurations, providing maximum strength and durability in applications where high temperatures, stress and vibration occur.

Paired with the durability of ADFUSE, these radiators boast an unbeatable combination of performance, dura-

bility and strength where demanding cooling is needed.

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

After many years of proven performance, their popularity has grown so much that they now out-sell Adrad’s regular soldered industrial cores.

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

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AD FEATURE KEEP IT COOL 33

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

For the cool operator

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

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

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

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

The Fresco 3000 is a 12 or 24 volt, 950 Watt, DC powered split system air-conditioning unit comprising of a condenser which is mounted on the external rear wall of the cabin, and the evaporator which is installed on the interior cabin wall. This design

allows maximum flexibility in positioning the separate components. Its lightweight, low profile design means it’s suitable for most applications without compromising fuel load or chassis space.

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

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

The Cool Split 20 is available in 12 or 24 volt, with a cooling capacity of 2kW. It is available with rear or roof-top mounted condenser with the evaporator installed on the interior cabin wall. The Cool Split 20 features a programmable control panel, multifunction infrared remote control, a four-speed fan with two adjustable/closable vents and safety features that include low pressure/thermal/

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

tilt/HV earth leakage and low battery voltage protection.

This system will suit most applications without compressing the roof hatch.

Also on offer for the truck market are Webasto’s iso-

Webasto has been providing comfort solutions for the bus and truck market since 1965.

therm compressor fridges ranging in size and style from a 16L and 30L drawer fridge/ freezer up to a 49L upright refrigerator, helping to keep drinks and food as fresh as

possible while on the road.

Webasto products are available Australia-wide through Webasto’s authorised truck sales and service dealer network, and as with

all Webasto products, they are covered by a two year warranty.

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

No matter where or when - Rest cool & easy with Webasto

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

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

Easy Installation via vehicle roof hatch.

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Isotherm Compressor Fridge 16L Fridge/Freezer Drawer 30L Fridge Drawer 49L Upright Fridge Compact with multiple installation options.

Fresco 3000 Low profile, light weight, DC powered, rear mount Air Conditioning.

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

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All products are supplied with a 2 year warranty

34 AD FEATURE KEEP IT COOL

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Natrad HDS: specialists in heavy-duty cooling

Natrad HDS workshops have all your cooling needs covered.

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

The group is dedicated to addressing the special needs of large industrial customers and offers highly skilled and consistent service Australia-wide.

With the ability to support on-highway and off-highway vehicles, earth-moving and mining applications, large transport vehicle fleets, agri-

cultural machinery and largescale power generators, Natrad HDS is the ideal choice to handle heavy-duty needs.

Natrad HDS workshops have all your cooling needs covered.

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

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

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

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

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

It also has EGRs for light trucks and SUVs too.

If it’s part of the cooling system, Natrad HDS can fix it.

Oil coolers Whether it’s for the transmission or a hydraulic system, Natrad HDS can provide a cooling solution that meets your particular vehicle and

operating environment.

Choose from the range of high quality Dana Tru-Cool oil coolers or get a high-pressure Adrad alloy custom-built design.

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

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

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

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20 + factory trained technicians ready for your needs to get you back on the road ASAP Onsite servicing available with 11 mobile service vehicles

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

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36 AD FEATURE KEEP IT COOL

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Proactive coolant testing can save you money TO maintain our health, we might regularly visit the doctor for a blood test to assist in the diagnosis of a health condition.

Coolant is akin to our blood, so regularly testing and monitoring the coolant can tell us much about the condition of the cooling system and if anything is wrong that might lead to significant engine health problems.

Every good cooling system maintenance program should include regular coolant testing to determine if the proper level of protection is present or if contaminants exist. A good coolant testing program eliminates guesswork and allows the cooling system to maintain peak performance.

These test strips measure freeze point, molybdate and nitrite.

What can easily be tested on-site?

Firstly, what is in our coolant?

Fleetguard PGPlus and PG Platinum contain ~45-47 per cent propylene glycol, a few per cent additives/inhibitors/ antifoam/dye and the remainder ~50 per cent de-mineralised water. The glycol provides for the antiboil/anti-freeze, the additives/inhibitors provide the corrosion, scale and liner cavi-

tation, the water helps to retain these properties and assist heat transfer.

The first-up assessment of any coolant is its appearance: Clarity, colour, presence of sediments, suspended matter (cloudiness), presence of oil/ fuel on the surface and petroleum, sulphurous or ammonia odours. If it is not typical of new coolant, then there might be a problem.

In on-site situations when your equipment is in for service, the coolant properties to test are: Glycol content percentage, pH, nitrite and molybdate which relate directly to the coolant, and contaminants such as sulphate and chloride.

Fleetguard has a range of products that can be used for testing.

When testing, if the glycol content is lower it generally means the coolant (glycol and additives/inhibitors) has been diluted with water which means less antiboil/antifreeze protection and less effective corrosion, scale and liner cavitation protection. Cummins requires the glycol content to be maintained between 40-60 per cent by volume. Fleetguard sells both PGPlus and PG Platinum

COOLANT IS AKIN TO OUR BLOOD, SO REGULARLY TESTING AND MONITORING THE COOLANT CAN TELL US MUCH ABOUT THE CONDITION OF THE COOLING SYSTEM AND IF ANYTHING IS WRONG THAT MIGHT LEAD TO SIGNIFICANT ENGINE HEALTH PROBLEMS.” NAME

as a ready-made premix (~50 per cent vol) in demineralised water. When a coolant is new the glycol concentration, pH and the additives are present at the correct levels.

Coolant that has been in service for a long period, suffered overheating events or exhaust blow-by (exhaust leak into the cooling system) may suffer a reduction in its pH (chemical stability). Sulphate (from exhaust or source water) and chloride (source water) are typical contaminants that can be detected with Fleetguard test strips.

These easy to use test strips measure levels of pH, sulphate and chloride for overall coolant quality.

To assist with on-site testing, Cummins Filtration has a range of coolant test strips and refractometers that can be used on-site as a quick guide to assess the immediate health of your Fleetguard coolant and cooling system condition.

For more information, visit fleetguard.com.au or call Cummins Filtration on 1800 032 037.

COOLANT DESIGNED FOR ANY APPLICATION ACROSS THE FLEET GO WITH FLEETGUARD

www.fleetguard.com

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

A cool path to success

T H E F I R S T Q U I E T, COST EFFECTIVE, LOW C02 LITHIUM POWERED A I R C O N S YS TE M

The Coolabah team, with David Saliba second from the right.

SINCE David Saliba and Lino Debono launched their first Coolabah air conditioning unit into the market over four years ago, the business has celebrated a number of milestones – and with lots of exciting developments currently under way, the future is looking very bright too.

The past 12 months have included everything from reaching a major sales milestone and offering an increased warranty, to developing new products, including one that should be on the market before the year’s end.

Saliba and Debono have been in business together for over 25 years and were fitting air conditioning units by other manufacturers for many years.

Their business, MVM Auto, first began fitting air conditioning units to trucks in the 1990s.

Saliba soon became the goto product developer for many air conditioning companies.

He helped to design and build models that included the Viesa Compressor and Koolkat.

Around five years ago, the timing was right for the duo to develop their own brand, and with that Coolabah was born.

Unlike some other units on offer, the Coolabah unit heats and cools.

After producing the first

Coolabah unit at their facilities in Newcastle, Sydney, it underwent rigorous testing for about 12 months before going into full-scale production.

By April 2021, they had sold 1000 units. Fast forward five months, and sales now sit at over 1300 units and counting.

“Business is continually improving. Customer retention and customer recommendations have been great. What we’re seeing is that customers who have our unit are recommending it to others in the industry, and then they’re also jumping on board,” said Saliba.

From September, Coolabah has also increased the warranty of its lithium battery, which has gone up from three years to five. “We’ve been able to come up with a new technology that looks after the battery better.

Obviously as technology improves, the battery life also improves,” explained Saliba.

“We’ve included an active balancer in our batteries that makes sure the cells are always balanced. Because of active balancing, we can now offer our customers a better warranty.”

With the success of the Coolabah unit, Saliba and Debono are looking to expand their product offering, with a rear wall unit called the Koala set to be next in line.

“We’re in the process of test-

ing a rear wall unit that mounts on the back wall of the truck cabin. We have a couple of prototypes out there that we’re testing at the moment and they’ve been going great. We are hoping for full production to start by the end of November,” said Saliba.

He added that Coolabah is also in the process of developing a lower cost unit targeted at larger fleets. “The price of the standard unit can deter some of the larger fleets from coming on board because there are some simpler and cheaper units coming in from overseas. The controller on our normal unit is very sophisticated, whereas this would use a standard thermostat and controller instead.

So we’re creating a simpler model to cater to this segment of the market.”

To add, Coolabah now has a 30-amp dual voltage charger in the mix too. “We used to have separate chargers for 12 and 24 volt trucks, but now we have one charger that can do both.

And it’s a much more reliable unit,” Saliba said.

Summer is just around the corner and is the busiest time of year for Coolabah, so book in quick before the heat of summer takes hold.

For more information, please visit coolabahdcac.com or call 02 9833 1900.

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Coolabah Lithium batteries warranty now increased to five years.

38 NEWS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Australia Post grows electric fleet with eCanter

Six liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries mounted in the eCanter frame store 82.8kW/h of electricity and feed a permanent magnet synchronous motor.

Australia Post will add another 20 Fuso eCanters to the fleet from October.

Australia Post is the first local customer to take on the eCanter.

IN expanding the electrification of its fleet, Australia Post will welcome 20 Fuso eCanter trucks from next month.

Australia Post is currently the largest electric vehicle operator in Australia, with a fleet of over 3000 electric vehicles already under its belt.

The eCanter is Australia’s first OEM all-electric truck, which produces zero emissions and virtually no noise; and Australia Post is the first local customer to take it on.

Six liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries mounted in the eCanter frame store 82.8kW/h of electricity (with 66kW/h of usable power) and feed a permanent magnet synchronous motor.

Power output is rated at 135kW and 390Nm of torque can be delivered the moment the accelerator

pedal is pressed.

“With the significant growth in parcel volumes, more vehicles are required in our network,” said general manager – networks for Australia Post, James Dixon.

“It makes good sense to add electric vehicles as part of this requirement. Not only will these eCanters fit our needs in this delivery category, but they will also contribute to our science-based target to reduce emissions by 15 per cent by 2025 from a FY19 baseline.”

The new eCanters will operate across the Australia Post and StarTrack businesses in major capital cities in two body configurations and will be supported by the Daimler Trucks network.

“Since working with Daimler Trucks on the pre-production eCanter, we have been

keen to have the truck in our fleet. Daimler Trucks is a good choice for Australia Post in the fleet space with a large network and focus on safety,” Dixon added.

The eCanter is equipped with many safety inclusions, such as advanced pedestrian-sensing emergency braking technology, a collision mitigation system, lane departure warning and an Electronic Stability Program.

Daimler Truck and Bus President and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, says Australia Post is the perfect first Australian customer for the eCanter.

“Daimler is thrilled to partner with such an iconic brand as Australia Post on a journey towards carbon neutral freight transportation in Australia,” Whitehead said.

“The Fuso eCanter’s active

safety features, zero local emissions and near-silent operation make it perfect for parcel and letter deliveries in the city and the suburbs.”

Fuso Truck and Bus Australia Director, Alex Müller, applauded Australia Post for its electric mobility leadership.

“Australia Post is setting a great

tonnes, became the world’s first small series electric production truck in 2017.

It has been the subject of a rigorous testing regime around the world, including a six-month Australian test running with a maximum load, in addition to real world driving in overseas markets.

The eCanter is Australia’s first OEM all-electric truck, which produces zero emissions and virtually no noise.

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Car licence SEA Electric truck hits the road

NEWS 39

Designed, engineered and assembled in Australia, the 4.5-tonne GVM SEA 300-45 was unveiled at the recent Brisbane Truck Show.

Packaged with an 88kWh battery, the SEA 300-45 has an unladen range of up to 250km with a fastcharging time of under two hours.

THE first example of the pure electric-powered SEA 300-45 has rolled off SEA Electric’s Melbourne production line.

Designed, engineered and assembled in Australia, the 4.5-tonne GVM SEA 30045 was unveiled at the recent Brisbane Truck Show and with its car licence driver-rating, its makers say the truck will “open up a world of opportunity” for zero emission lastmile deliveries.

The model’s intelligent design sees batteries and its Power-System optimally positioned away from the steer axle, allowing for improved weight distribution and out-

“Obviously, being capable of driven on a car licence makes it is easier to attract and retain staff, and those drivers are to able to utilise a noise, fume and vibration-free work environment.

“With the silent operation of the truck, converting to EVs creates opportunities to beat noise curfews moving forward, with residences and businesses along delivery routes also big winners.

“The range of the SEA 300-45 is also a strong suite, and when coupled with its fast charging capability, the trucks can slot in seamlessly to existing fleets.

standing driving dynamics.

The patented SEA-Drive 70-7 Power-System as fitted to the truck features maximum power and torque ratings of 127kW and 700Nm, with its performance characteristics making it ideal for stop-start city traffic, says SEA Electric.

Packaged with an 88kWh battery, the SEA 300-45 has an unladen range of up to 250km with a fast-charging time of under two hours.

Notably, the truck’s tare weight comes in at only 2.5-tonnes, which results in an allowance of 2-tonnes for its body and freight, an attractive proposition in the EV space.

The design of the SEA 30045 allows for a maximum body length of 4,820mm, while all ancillary functions can be converted to pure-electric power, including refrigeration units.

“In recent times, the transport industry has seen massive development in the last mile delivery sector, fuelled by the growth of demand for online shopping,” said Bill Gillespie, SEA Electric President – Asia Pacific.

“We’re particularly proud of the SEA 300-45; it ticks many boxes for fleets who want to show leadership in environmental sustainability moving forward.

The first SEA 300-45 is yet another milestone for SEA Electric since the local volume production of trucks commenced, with the brand recently becoming Australia’s latest OEM after gaining Australian Design Rules approval.

Meanwhile, growth for transport industry innovators SEA Electric in the zero-emissions space has continued, with a strong presence at the recent Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in California in front of an estimated 5000 attendees.

Held at the Long Beach Convention Centre, the event was the ideal platform

to showcase the latest products available in alternative fuels sector, with SEA Electric providing a solution for most truck and van OEM glider chassis, from Class 3 to Class 8.

Now based in Los Angeles, the Australian founded SEA Electric has been developing the SEA-Drive Power-System since 2012, with it, finding favour with partners due to its outstanding performance and range characteristics, says a media statement.

Further details on SEA Electric and its dealer network can be found at sea-electric. com/en_au.

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FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

IVECO places increased focus on alternative fuels

IVECO Australia is looking to the future as it continues to transition towards more sustainable transport solutions beyond its current Euro6 model range.

Heavy-duty solutions are also on the cards. Behind the scenes the company has been evaluating and implementing the necessary processes, infrastructure and support services required to introduce alternative-fuelled models, including products available to it under a joint venture with Nikola Corporation.

“With our IVECO joint venture partner Nikola BEV/ FCBEV, heavy-duty solutions are becoming a reality.

In fact our production facility in Ulm, Germany, recently completed a 12-month phase of design, testing and validation on the models and prototype vehicles are at an advanced stage of development,” said long-time senior IVECO product manager, Marco Quaranta, who now steps into the role of strategic projects and industry relations manager.

This newly created position comes as part of IVECO

Australia’s recent organisational restructure, which sees alternative fuels and technologies placed front and centre Quaranta will be tasked with helping to propel IVECO Australia forward in this evolving space.

“Bringing the vehicles down under will be the easy part; the challenge is the preparation for the launch.

Fortunately for IVECO, we have a highly experienced, local engineering and validation team with the skills and link to our central engineering teams to test and develop customised solutions for the unique ANZ market requirements,” Quaranta added.

He will also act as a resource for IVECO customers who are looking to take their first steps in reducing the carbon footprint of their fleets.

Additionally, he will play a role in meeting and liaising with key industry stakeholders and advocacy groups to further promote IVECO’s alternative fuel capabilities.

According to Quaranta, there is growing interest from customers wanting to know more about their options

when it came to alternative fuels for commercial vehicles.

“During my short time in the role, I’ve already had many discussions with customers who are curious of their options to reduce the impact of their vehicles beyond what Euro6 can deliver,” he said.

Quaranta adds that although alternative fuelled vehicles aren’t new to Australia, it hasn’t reached its full potential due to a lack of refuelling infrastructure.

“At the time, the interest in natural gas was being driven by high diesel prices, but once prices stabilised, CNG and LNG-powered trucks became less attractive, and demand dropped,” he said.

“This latest interest in alternative technologies is stronger and not born from a desire to save costs, but rather, to reduce emissions – that’s the driving factor.”

While natural gas remains an opportunity in the alternative fuels space, as it emits less particulate matter and virtually zero nitrogen oxides compared to diesel, Quaranta says market interest seems to be pointing towards elec-

Long-time senior IVECO product manager, Marco Quaranta, has moved into the future-focused role of strategic projects and industry relations manager.

tric propulsion.

“In Australia, natural gas vehicles are still a viable consideration – they offer a reasonable range and would work well with the right in-

frastructure in place,” he said.

“If the source of the gas comes from landfill capture, this adds an additional ‘green’ element, making the fuel even more attractive.”

With several biomass facilities already operating in Australia, Quaranta says IVECO is in a strong position to reintroduce gas-powered trucks and vans if there is demand.

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NEWS 41

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Precision Automotive opens new SA/NT branch

AUTOMOTIVE workshop equipment supplier and service provider, Precision Automotive Equipment, has become truly national with the opening of its new South Australian branch.

Centrally located at 17A Birralee Road in Regency Park, the new branch office includes a showroom and service centre, taking care of the automotive equipment requirements of customers located both in both South Australia and the Northern Territory.

It also provides a hub for Precision Automotive Equipment’s South Australia based team of business development managers and service technicians, ensuring prompt and local service for their ever-growing customer base in that region.

Testament to Precision Automotive Equipment’s commitment to customer service is the appointment of a rotary authorised and qualified hoist technician along with a wheel service

equipment technician who are permanently based at this new South Australian branch Former South Australian service technician, Mark Holloway, now leads the team as branch manager, overseeing sales and service requirements.

An integral part of Bapcor Limited, Australasia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, Precision Automotive Equipment now has a complete national footprint with branches lo-

cated in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart and Perth.

Precision Automotive Equipment general manager Peter Hewitt said, “We are delighted to be truly national with the opening of our new South Australian branch. This enables us to continue providing the world’s highest quality workshop equipment along with a premium level of after sales service to our customers, no matter where they are located.”

Precision Automotive Equipment general manager Peter Hewitt with South Australia/Northern Territory branch manager Mark Holloway.

Horsham-based Wilson Bolton joins the Detroit network

Wilson Bolton general manager Matt Webb and commercial service manager Eugene Coutts.

PENSKE Australia has appointed Wilson Bolton as an authorised Detroit dealer, servicing the Wimmera region.

Based in Horsham, Wilson Bolton has been part of the local community for over 100 years as a commercial equipment and automotive dealer.

With a dedicated team of engine specialists, Detroit customers in the region will

receive superior care at Wilson Bolton’s state-of-the-art service centre.

“Wilson Bolton brings a wealth of experience along with warm country hospitality that will see Detroit customers well supported in the critical corridor between Adelaide and Melbourne,” said Jonathon Wrightson, manager – Detroit Freightliner account team at Penske Australia.

“With their long-standing automotive and commercial equipment history, we are confident that Matt Webb, general manager of Wilson Bolton, and his team will provide excellent service for our well-proven Series 60 and DD15 customers as well as for customers with our latest DD13 and DD16 offering.”

Webb adds that becoming a Detroit partner was an easy decision due to the portfolio

of high performing and reliable engines that are backed with a great warranty.

“With a brand new product offering recently launched that builds on the tried and tested reputation of the Series 60 and DD15, this is a very exciting time to partner with Detroit,” said Webb.

“The addition of the Detroit brand to our family of agriculture, automotive, and heavy-duty truck brands is

very welcome. Our diesel technicians are dedicated to their craft and to giving customers peace of mind when they are on the road or out in the field.

“Customers heading west to Adelaide or east to Melbourne can easily drop into our dealership for efficient and comprehensive Detroit support and be on their way back onto the Western Highway.”

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Safety initiative invests 28 projects OUR GOVERNMENT IS FOCUSED ON ENSURING ROAD USERS STAY SAFE AND ARRIVE AT THEIR DESTINATION EVERY TIME THEY GET BEHIND THE WHEEL.” Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce.

BARNABY JOYCE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER

THREE regional councils and Tasmania’s largest bus operator are just four of the winners from the latest round of the tax-payer funded Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI).

In all, 28 projects are sharing in almost $5.5 million for projects as diverse as the Orange City and Cabonne Shire Council’s program on the importance of taking power naps, and the installation of Mobileye advanced driver assistance technology in Metro Tasmania buses.

Other funding winners include Concrete Pumping Association of Australia, for data analysis and research, and Grain Producers SA Ltd for a study into the behaviour of SA

primary producers accessing public roads.

The administrating body, the NHVR, does not release details of what each individual recipient receives under the program, which is now in its sixth round.

In a media statement, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the Government was funding programs that would help save lives and reduce road trauma.

“Our government is focused on ensuring road users stay safe and arrive at their destination every time they get behind the wheel,” the

Deputy Prime Minister said.

“That’s why we’re investing in new and innovative initiatives that will deliver improved safety outcomes for workers in our heavy vehicle industry as well as regular motorists.

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said this latest round of funding continues the Government’s strong support under the HVSI, providing opportunities for industry, researchers and community groups to deliver key projects underpinning driver, vehicle and community safety.

“The highly successful HVSI has now allocated around $28 million to support 117 projects across six rounds,” Assistant Minister Buchholz said.

“Projects across the first five program rounds have delivered beneficial outcomes in mental health, driver safety, road user awareness, codes of practice, chain of responsibility and driver education.

“They have also driven the development, delivery and adoption of new technology and innovation relating to fatigue management, safety man-

The forestry association was awarded funding for a Forestry Code of Practice: Gap Analysis System.

agement systems, load restraint, safety cameras, seeing eye machines, rest stop areas to name a few.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Chair Duncan Gay said the HVSI program delivers tangible improvements to heavy vehicle safety.

“The Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative is funding key initiatives that help reshape how we think about road safety,” Gay said.

“The program brings the community, government and

industry together to deliver on a shared goal of safer drivers, safer vehicles and safer road use for all Australians.”

The Australian Logistics Council’s (ALC) Increasing Awareness and Understanding of the Master Code in the Supply Chain project was another successful recipient of funding this year.

The ALC said the project will deliver increased levels of awareness and understanding of the Master Code and Chain of Responsibility obligations

leading to improved safety for drivers of heavy vehicles, workers in the supply chain and the broader community.

ALC CEO Brad Williams said the HVSI funding would enable them to deliver the Increasing Awareness and Understanding of the Master Code in the Supply Chain project and contribute to the overall goal of improving heavy vehicle safety.

“The Master Code was developed to provide guidance to industry on how they can comply with their chain of respon-

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NEWS 43

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

$5.5m across

NTI received a share of the $5.5m to produce a national crash reduction program for the dairy industry.

sibility obligations so increasing awareness is an important task, particularly for those businesses that do not have heavy vehicles of their own but rely on them to get their goods and products to the end user,” Williams said.

The OzHelp Foundation’s (OzHelp) Health in Gear project also received key funding through the initiative.

A media statement said Health in Gear will deliver targeted health and wellbeing education and support to owner driver truck drivers.

OzHelp’s chief executive officer Darren Black said the HVSI funding would enable OzHelp to move into the critical next phase of the Health in Gear project and improve health and safety for owner drivers and operators.

“This funding is a terrific boost to enable us to continue the important health and wellbeing work begun in the design phase of the project in 2020,” said Black.

“These are tough times for the community and especially

for drivers impacted by lockdowns, Covid testing and constant changes in border requirements.

“Stress is high across the industry and our goal in the next phase of the project is to take practical support to drivers in the form of roadside health checks through the Truckie Tune Up.” For a full list of round six projects, visit nhvr.gov.au/hvsi.

• Turn to page 57 for details of how HVIA plans to spend its funding under the initiative.

How the SA wine industry has spent $226K in funding

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

THE South Australian Wine Industry Association (SAWIA) received $226,888 under round five of the HVSI to develop a registered wine industry code of practice and promote it via a national education program.

It’s being developed in partnership with Australian Grape & Wine Inc (AGW) and is due for completion in October 2023.

According to SAWIA business services manager Henrik Wallgren, developing a specific code of practice for the industry was on the cards for some time.

“We were asking members what else they needed from us and the overwhelming response was that they needed more specific guidance,” Wallgren said.

“The feeling from industry was that the Master Code wasn’t enough. It provides overall guidance across all industries, but doesn’t provide any specific guidance for our industry.

“It has its roles to play, but if you want to know as a grape grower what safe practices are to load grapes, it doesn’t tell you that,” he said.

The first phase is the development of the code which, once finalised, will need to be submitted to the NHVR for approval, before it is taken to

over 20 wine regions across SA, NSW, Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland.

Though it’s about a year in, the project is still in its consultation phase. “We have an ambitious plan to go around the country for consultation. We’ve completed consultation in SA, Mildura in Victoria in April and went to Tassie in February.

Throughout June and July we were going to travel to Victoria, NSW and WA,” Wallgren added.

“We’ve been ready to run these consultations since January and it’s been incredibly difficult to do that with current Covid restrictions. The sessions we’ve run have been well attended. Had 130 people come through across the regions we’ve visited. They’ve been attended by wine producers, grape growers and transporters.”

So, is the project on track

to be completed by October 2023?

“It really depends on how we track in terms of Covid.

We’re liaising with the NHVR and I understand there are other projects where Covid is posing challenges too.”

Asked where the funding is being spent, Wallgren responded, “The funding is about enabling the expansive travel and engagement to get that feedback.

Sure, we can do online consultations, but we find having that face-to-face consultation is much more valuable.

“What we’re seeing, going out to those locations, is that whilst there are similarities in the different states and regions, there are also differences across regions.

“I think we will find unique aspects when we go out to NSW and Victoria that we need to address.”

The funding is being used to develop a registered wine industry code of practice.

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44 COLUMN

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Society is Covid-19 do you think our

BY THE BORED NEUROTIC HOUSEWIVES

SOMEDAYS you wonder just how inside out someone can get.

Big Rigs have kept us all up to date with every twist and turn Covid-19 has bought us since March 2020 and has continued to be there since old spinster aunt Delta arrived earlier this year too. No fact checking required.

Truckies got through last year’s regulations and protocols which technically never stopped. The National Freight Protocol has always been there if you chose to follow it, like when we make scones – who needs a recipe book, right?

Somewhere around November 2020 testing was relaxed, hard borders were removed, and Christmas was upon us, FREEDOM! No hard border controls to be seen, a lot of drivers weren’t

Woolworths drivers at Barnawartha are given a tracker like a smartwatch.

testing as per the protocol and testing sites were being closed or hours altered. Even though you could be randomly pulled over to check your test results.

In March Aunty Delta had arrived to stay, and all hell broke loose. She tipped us on our heads and common sense went out the window.

Again, truckies have carried the can and not just interstaters. You must include all sectors, intra, local, mining, etc. For such a long time there was no positive cases, just a lot

of grumbling by truckies having to test regularly. Boy, can they grumble, but we love ‘em all the same.

Mental health was once just a new trendy catch phrase, almost a cliché that we all just rolled our eyes at most of the time; something that is rarely discussed in trucking circles yet prevalent amongst drivers. It was knocking at the passenger door big time, for a long time.

August 20, 2021 saw an updated, streamlined National Freight Code – streamlined national testing requirements and roadhouse protocols. A National Code, except when states put their two pence in.

What the Bored Neurotic Housewives (BNHs) pondered while supping our margaritas was these state and territory trucking associations that we read about, where they tell us: “We are fighting to get the government to listen”, but then on other issues they say, “We are a part of the decision-making”.

It’s become very confusing

because, are they a part of decision-making, or do they just like to peacock and appear to be supporting the DRIVERS? Even after a few cocktails we understand that information can’t be released until finalised, but some form of commentary to the drivers and their partners may help allay some of the misinformation that finds it way to social media, the main repository for drivers these days.

The ‘Mother Ship’ – the

Australian Trucking Association – includes state and territory associations under its banner. Lucky those meetings are on Zoom. Could you imagine all those egos in one room?

It would be like a room full of 18-year-old testosterone-fueled boys discussing their first girlfriend. Drivers not in associations or unions do not trust a lot of these groups. Cheers, we have trouble liking them ourselves sometimes! Don’t get

Shouldn’t you have test sites sorted already? Over 18 months with Covid and you’re still sorting them?

us wrong, there are some great groups and amazing people doing a lot of work without the fanfare and are getting great results.

Seriously, over 18 months with Covid-19 and we have several associations coming out now and again saying we must have a better co-ordination with national testing requirement etc.

So far, all the drivers and partners see is every time a truckie has been mentioned in a Delta outbreak, attending an exposure site etc. it’s their fault and more restrictions are put in place. Even when Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Dr Jeanette Young congratulates the drivers for following protocols and there is no super spreader event.

Talking about more restrictions. Online grocery shopping, not something you should do when supping cocktails, but isn’t it annoying when something isn’t in stock?

If a DC was to close due

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

fatigued: how drivers are?

to covid exposure for a few days, it would make a dent in the supply chain. That’s not lost on the truckle’s partners, BUT Woolworths DCs have taken their protocols to a new extreme.

A truck driver, armed with a PCR test negative result arrives at the DC’s gate, completes a rapid antigen test, negative, the driver proceeds.

In Dandenong they can’t have a shower. At Barnawartha they are given a tracker like a smartwatch, and they can already be fully vaxxed or have one jab, as mandated. Now can we mention mental health?

Is Woolworths dehumanising our truck drivers? The comments from drivers all through the threads on Covid-19 Central Facebook group mention “my mental health is suffering, “this is affecting me big-time”, etc. #doesanyonegiveashit.

The associations, in an article on September 17, called for test sites and vaccine hubs.

Shouldn’t you have test

sites sorted already? Over 18 months with Covid and you’re still sorting them?

NSW seem to have borne the brunt of testing for a National Protocol, managed by a government department that does done seem to fully understand how this affects the drivers, or that their preferred pathology takes too long. Can we mention mental health again?

Vaccine hubs?

Do the associations referenced in the article understand the implications, or rather, sorry, the side-effects from the vaccines? Fatigue, pain or swelling at the vaccination site, headaches, fevers, sore muscles, or joints, etc... Drivers who have been jabbed have been very clear on Facebook posts about these side effects.

The drivers already fight the idiocrasy of fatigue now thanks to a log book telling them when they are fatigued.

Now they must have an injection that can make them more fatigued as it sneaks up

them. For 15 minutes you are supervised for anaphylaxis after your shot. This will not help you behind the wheel when you start nodding off a couple of hours later when the vaccine starts working.

Are the clinicians giving you the jab fully versed in the driver’s medical history? What happens to a driver that gets the bad headaches or aches and pains and is made to proceed with the load as it is ‘perishables’. #doesanyonegiveashit.

Drive through vaccination hubs may well sound helpful to push the numbers through and get the country’s vaccination targets met, but do we put our essential drivers at an even higher risk of a fatigue related incident and/or make them pull over on the side of the road if they can’t make it to the next suitable truck rest stop for them suffer the symptoms, whatever they may be and for however long they may last, in their cab?

General society is Covid-19

fatigued… How do you think our drivers are?

The BNHs don’t profess to be doctors, we aren’t even nurses, and no we don’t prescribe to Dr Google either. Importantly we question and listen to our drivers, it’s common sense 101 – even my 12-year-old asks questions.

At the end of the day, it’s the drivers who will have the mental health issues, that won’t be able to work and will feel alienated by all in sundry. Not the associations, they’ll still be taking their subscriptions and attending their Zoom gatherings.

What the driver sees is the associations have lost the point of who they are supporting.

They are there to help the industry – generally they do BUT, not the drivers individually. It shouldn’t be about how shiny their peacock feathers are as they wouldn’t be there without the drivers.

Did we mention mental health? I think we need another drink for our drivers, cheers

COLUMN 45

Is Woolworths dehumanising our truck drivers?

to them for all they do out there day in and day out, we appreciate the environment you are all working in and hopefully it will level out in the next few months and some common sense will be restored to the protocols and general conditions on the highways and byways of Australia.

Love to you all, from all the BNHs of the industry xx Did we mention mental health?

About the authors: The BNHs are a collective of wives/partners of truck drivers who manage to speak to each other regularly about their partners, industry reports, Facebook posts and life in general: “Twenty years ago they were seen and not heard, now the wives and partners are a part of who the driver is on the road today, supporting each other.”

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46 COLUMN contributors@bigrigs.com.au

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

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Missing: duty of care and respect for transport workers EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NEWS

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

TRANSPORT workers have become directly responsible for shareholder and management happiness due to the ‘Christmas-level’ workload in many yards. They have kept parcels coming to people’s doors, they’ve kept retail shelves stocked. They have delivered essential goods and supplies across the country under unprecedented demand and pressure from those at the top of the supply chains.

Now those same drivers face a dilemma brought about by companies like FedEx and StarTrack who want to take this industry backwards. The industry precedent they want to set, is to take back what you get, reducing your income for the job you do.

The TWU are asking companies to stop outsourcing your job security. StarTrack

has for example refused to prioritise employees over lower paid outside hire. Workers have already reported a hit to their income due to overtime hours going to outside hire inLEGAL EAGLE stead of employees.

FedEx are ROWAN KING in a similar position, avoiding Principal Lawyer RK Law a commitment to transport workers and their families who face a loss of income because outsourcing is the model for their business.

At StarTrack, a leaked email from a labour hire agency shows that StarTrack is directing its outside hire agencies to pay its workers under cheap Award conditions, rather than ensure they are paid the same conditions and wages as StarTrack workers. The targeting of Kim White who has been targeted by the management team is not forgotten.

It is well known that insecure forms of work are on the increase. All workers want to hold on to a job, to ensure they can be able to pay the bills. The situation at companies like StarTrack and FedEx makes me want to ask, “why fix what ain’t broken?” The profits are rolling in, you have a workforce that has pushed

StarTrack has refused to prioritise employees over lower paid outside hire. Photo: Facebook

their hardest for you and their reward is the disrespectful treatment that sees managers looking to replace these workers. Sounds like Alan Joyce at Qantas.

Members are taking a stand. Members know that the offers on negotiating tables are missing the essential ingredient, a secure working future for working families. Workers

will stand together right across Australia to demand better.

In a major step across FedEx and StarTrack workforces, members have resoundingly voted to take action and join

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the fight to have their voices heard.

Company arrogance is not just hurting employee drivers.

The duty of care for owner drivers and their bottom line is also missing. Shareholders at Transurban must be ecstatic that they have really locked up the toll road system here in Australia, yet for all the joy that gives to shareholders, the enormous costs of road tolls on owner drivers and companies is beginning to take its toll.

October 1 is the date where toll road costs went up again, like they do every quarter and they will continue to do so for years to come because of the cosy deal that Transurban has made with the NSW government. Don’t forget there is no way out of the tunnel for drivers who are forced to use NorthConnex.

The TWU is asking the NSW government and Transurban to deal with the fear and uncertainty they have caused to small business transport operators in NSW and Queensland as the debt increases and the toll road costs continue to rise.

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Chain of Responsibility protects everyone VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

THE aim of CoR provisions in the HVNL (and equivalent laws in WA and NT) is to ensure that everyone in the supply chain actively prevents safety breaches and aligns transport safety law, with the concept of “duty of care” underpinning Occupational Health & Safety (OHS) law.

Complying with the law is a shared responsibility and all parties in the transport supply chain are responsible. It is also a shared cost.

A reputable transport company cannot exclude the cost of maintaining the systems, checks and time to ensure that the standards of operation meet those set out by the CoR legislation.

Customers of transport companies across Australia,

be they importers, exporters, freight forwarders, wholesalers, retailers, or manufacturers, are also defined in the CoR provisions of the law given their roles in the supply chain. These roles include being a consignor/dispatcher, packer, loader, scheduler, consignee/receiver, or loading manager for freight.

Breaches of the law can incur large penalties with up to five years imprisonment and $300,000 fines for individuals, or $3 million for corporations.

One of the most important safety strategies for companies seeking to protect their CoR interests is to engage transport providers who have a good safety and compliance reputation, and clear safety management policies and processes.

Using the container transport sector as an example, mis-declarations of container weights and not knowing how the cargo inside the shipping container is packed and internally restrained can lead to heightened safety risks.

Reputable container transport operators implement policies and procedures to mitigate these risks. These include close

communication with customers and others in the logistics chain on actual declared container weights, procedures to ensure that heavy vehicles are not overloaded (i.e., are within gross mass and individual axle mass limits), and driver training in safe vehicle operations, including appropriate heavy vehicle speed for the conditions. Safe container packing and unpacking are important also.

Be aware though that good safety culture, training, policies, procedures, and auditing come at a considerable cost.

All operators should have a Safety Management System that provides working standards, direction, accountability and transparency to ensure that all links in the supply chain are responsible.

It is expected that most transport companies now employ dedicated safety and compliance managers, have robust safety management systems in place, have recognised safety accreditations, train their staff thoroughly in safety compliance, and are subjected to exacting internal

and external safety audits.

Safety in the workplace is paramount. It does not stop at the transport operators’ gate but starts with the consignor and owner of the freight. All links in the supply chain are responsible and to ensure that accidents in the workplace, on

the road and in public do not happen.

The Victorian Transport Association recommends that owners of freight and customers ensure their carrier has recognised their CoR responsibilities, has Safety Management Systems in place and has in-

COLUMN 47

vested in the necessary systems to ensure a safe workplace.

More information including a Gap Assessment Tool can be found at the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator website: www.nhvr.gov.au or contact the Victorian Transport Association at any time.

All operators should have a Safety Management System that provides working standards, direction, accountability and transparency to ensure that all links in the supply chain are responsible.

48 COLUMN

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Thermal efficiency for refrigerated trucks ATA COMMENT BOB WOODWARD Australian Trucking Association

DOES the wall colour or thickness of a refrigerated truck effect its thermal efficiency?

You may be surprised at the significant impact these factors – and others – have on a unit’s efficiency and fridge plant fuel consumption.

To get the hard data, renowned MaxiPARTS engineer Greg Brown conducted a series of experiments by measuring the skin temperature of a white unit and a dark coloured unit placed in the sun, each with 25mm foam walls.

“At its peak temperature, the white unit reached just under 30 degrees Celsius, while the dark unit got up to nearly 70 degrees Celsius,” Brown said.

“With a temperature difference of 38 degrees Celsius, we can expect an extra heat leak of approximately 1200

The thicker the foam in the walls, the better the insulation.

watts. Even when the temperature difference is lower at 23 degrees Celsius, the calculated extra heat leak is 965 watts.”

Brown also points out that the darkness of a unit is not just about what colour it is painted.

“Dirt and grime can impact temperature – the dirtier a truck, the darker it is. This is especially the case for a truck’s roof which is less noticeable when dirty,” Brown said.

“This tells us that whether exposed to the sun or not,

there is a big temperature difference between dark, dirty, and light units. But it is not the only factor that contributes to thermal efficiency.”

The thicker the foam in the walls, the better the insulation and heat leak. When we increase the foam from 40mm to 65mm, there is a heat leakage reduction of 460 watts.

If we go even further and increase the foam thickness to 90mm, we can see a further reduction of 200 watts.

When talking about refrigerated units, you may have Well-known MaxiPARTS engineer Greg Brown conducted a series of experiments.

Brown points out that the darkness of a unit is not just about what colour it is painted.

Keep your brake shoes running true.

heard the term ‘K-factor’.

“K-factor is the material’s thermal conductivity or ability to conduct heat,” Brown said.

“The unit of measurement for thermal conductivity is W/ (m²k), and the lower the number the better.”

When comparing the complete trailer, the ‘K’ is of the complete body and the unit is W/m²K. This is the average energy in watts per square meter of body that will leak per degree Kelvin or degree C temperature difference between the inside and the outside.

When comparing two trailers of the same specs but different lengths (10 metres and 14 metres), Brown noted that the longer trailer had a lower K (0.53) but leaked more (2525 watts), while the shorter trailer

leaked less (2006 watts) but had a higher K (0.57).

“This is because as the size of the unit increases there is more surface area so it will leak or transfer more energy.

This leaked energy is the energy that the fridge plant needs to remove to maintain the required internal temperature,” Brown said.

The K factor of the complete unit can be misleading as is the larger the unit the lower the K factor which does not equate to lower energy transfer, in fact it is larger. The K factor reduces as the size of the body increases because the panels, walls and roof get proportionally bigger faster than the joins and corners which are a bigger leaks for their size.

The final factor that im-

pacts thermal efficiency and fuel consumption is circulation and multiple temperature zones.

“It’s quite common to have multiple temperature zones in one trailer. Because of customer requirements, they are not often in the logical sequence in the unit,” Brown said.

“Circulation is particularly important for maintaining temperature, and an effective way to manage this is by utilising recessed tracks.

“Recessed tracks maintain the same internal width but increase the insulation thickness for substantial percentage of wall.”

A full overview and visual examples of Brown’s findings can be found on the ATA YouTube channel.

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50 DRIVER PROFILES

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckin’ In The Tropics Paul Frahn THIS truckie has done something that no other truck driver I have spoken to in

the past 10 years has – that is to have a break in his sleeper box off the Flinders High-

way at the top of the Burra Range between Torren’s Creek and Pentland in north Queensland after dark.

Located approximately 80km north-east of Hughenden and 140km south-west of Charters Towers, Burra Range is famous for the alleged night-time presence of a “Yowie” or hairy man creature.

Numerous truckies I have spoken to won’t even stop there after dark for a piddle, let alone sleep there.

“I have slept there in my sleeper box and it was a funny feeling but I never saw a Yowie,” Frahn said.

Aged 60, he drives a Mack for Lowes Petroleum and hauls fuel to places as far away as Mount Isa and Longreach.

Mount Isa is 900km from his coastal Townsville base along the Flinders and Barkly Highways and the route is busy with heavy vehicle traffic.

He was checking on the trailers of his triple road train when I saw him recently at the Townsville Port Access Road.

“I have been a truckie since 1978 and like stopping at the Cloncurry Roadrunner Roadhouse and Torrens Creek Hotel when away

with Alf Wilson

working,” he said.

The Torrens Creek Pub is a place where many people have stopped over the years claiming to have seen a Yowie whilst negotiating the route at night.

A national television program even went there some years back and interviewed several drivers who claimed to have had a Yowie encounter.

However many believe a Yowie doesn’t exist and is just

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a figment of the imagination.

Born in South Australia, Frahn later moved to the Northern Territory in 1987 where he drove trucks before relocating to Townsville 13 years later.

Frahn said he has had both Covid-19 vaccinations and hasn’t been affected by the pandemic to any major degree. “We are lucky as there has not been much of it up north in Townsville.”

Though Frahn believes

the area he travels in could do with some more rest areas. “But we learn to plan our trips so as to be able to stop at the good ones there are,” he said.

The first trucks he drove were a British-manufactured Commer and a 1976 Kenworth.

His hobbies outside work are gardening and watching western movies, especially ones starring the late and great John Wayne.

DRIVER PROFILES 51

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Truckin’ In The Tropics Lindsay Elmore

AGED 53, Lindsay Elmore drives a Nissan UD for Linfox out of Townsville and carries general freight locally and to Charters Towers and the Burdekin.

When we caught up for a chat, Elmore was delivering groceries to supermarkets as well as pallets of beer.

Nicknamed Stretch, Elmore stands at just over 200cm tall and is a very

friendly and knowledgeable driver.

“This is a beautiful truck and is so comfortable and feels like I am sitting in a lounge chair when I drive it,” he said.

A truckie for 35 years, Elmore started out driving for Ansett Freight Express.

He was stopped at BP Cluden. “I like stopping here and also at the rest area just

with Alf Wilson

Reggie Shepherd

past Mingela on the Flinders Highway,” he said.

The first truck Elmore drove was a Toyota HiAce. His hobby outside work is collecting antiques and studying military history.

Elmore was a member of the Army Reserve between 1986 and 2006 and has a brother Steven who is a Northern Territory truckie.

ARMED with a bottle of cleaning liquid and a big smile on his face, Shepherd had been cleaning his truck whilst on a break when Big Rigs caught up with him.

“It is now very shiny and I even cleaned the wheel rims,” he said.

Shepherd, 49, works for Trinity Petroleum carrying fuel, and was driving a Kenworth T401 with a C-12 Caterpillar

engine and an 18 speed gearbox.

“I have been a truck driver since I was 18 and really like the job,” he said.

Shepherd likes stopping at the Puma Roadhouse at Calcium along the Flinders Highway and the Lights on the Hill near Hughenden when on the road.

Though he said there needs to be more rest areas for drivers, the ones he does praise are

at Rollingstone on the Bruce Highway and at Woodstock.

Shepherd has barracked for the Canberra Raiders in the NRL since 1989. The Raiders may have missed out on NRL finals action in season 2021 but Shepherd hopes they charge up the ladder next season.

Previously Shepherd had driven a Kenworth T659 for Puma Energy of Garbutt in North Queensland.

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52 SPY ON THE ROAD

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Taking in the spectacular sights SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON

Beauty amazes Among the reasons truckies nominate for loving their jobs is the beautiful parts of Australia they get to see from behind the wheel.

The sorts of places many would only see on holiday.

In their jobs of keeping Australia supplied truckies do travel far and wide and as a bonus get paid for it.

One beautiful location is along Larapinta Drive, between Alice Springs and Glen Helen, in the West MacDonnell Range of the Northern Territory.

A truckie sent Spy a pic of it.

It captured the spectacular sight in his photo which features hills in the distance and green trees and yellow shrubs near the bitumen.

Australia’s oldest bridge Convicts who built Tasmania’s Richmond Bridge could never have imagined that 196 years on, it would still be in use – with trucks up to 25 tonnes now using it, a far cry from the “trucks” back then that were pulled by horses.

Richmond is in southern Tasmania, about 20km from Hobart. Work commenced on the bridge in 1823 and it was completed two years later.

It is reportedly the oldest bridge in Australia which has truck traffic.

Several Tasmanian drivers have told Spy that a big party is being planned in 2025 by authorities to celebrate its 200th birthday.

The bridge at the town of Ross, just off the Midlands Highway between Hobart and Launceston, is the third oldest in the country. Construction took five years and it was finished in 1836.

A Tasmanian State Growth spokeswoman told Spy that the load limit was

A light truck crosses Richmond Bridge in Tasmania.

25 tonnes for Richmond Bridge and 20 tonnes for Ross Bridge.

To add to the mystique around Richmond Bridge,

A truckie snapped this wonderful view along Larapinta Drive, between Alice Springs and Glen Helen, in the West MacDonnell Range of the NT.

some locals claim it is haunted by the ghost of flagellator George Grover who supervised convicts during construction. History records show that Grover was a cruel person who was reportedly murdered by being thrown off the top of the bridge by

When colonial architect John Lee Archer authorsed the rebuilding of the piers at Richmond Bridge, Grover supervised the convicts fetching the sandstone from nearby Butcher’s Hill. It’s said he would stand on the heavy carts being dragged by

A truck passes a rest area which has a new Intelligent Transport System.

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some of the convicts he tortured during construction.

Flagellator Grover was transported to Van Diemen’s Land for stealing and arrived on the Earl St Vincent ship in October 1823. He spent a lot of time on the chain gang for bad behaviour.

SPY ON THE ROAD 53

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Australia’s most northern pub is at Badu Island in the Torres Strait.

criminals.

He died at the beginning of 1832 after falling from the bridge, though it was suspected he was pushed.

The Hobart Town Courier of the day reported that there was a six day inquest into his death.

Grover was buried in St Luke’s Cemetery on March 3, 1832, aged 27, and there have been hundreds of sightings of his ghost since.

More intelligence gathering The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is rolling out and installing more intelligent transport systems (ITS) at locations around Queensland.

The ITS systems, in conjunction with signs on approach to the rest area, alert approaching heavy vehicles of their current status.

They also include cameras that can provide a live feed back to the Townsville Traffic Management Centre for traffic monitoring.

Similar upgrades have recently been completed at the Christmas Creek and Helen’s Hill rest stops on the Bruce Highway between Townsville and Ingham, as well as at other rest areas on

the Bruce Highway outside of the Northern district.

In Spy’s last column I reported on an ITS at the Cape River Rest Area between Charters Towers and Clermont.

Road freight a winner Several Victorian drivers who were sitting in a NSW pub waiting for a meal looked up at a screen in the TAB section and saw a greyhound named Road Freight.

It was a starter from box two in a dish lickers grade five event over 330m at Richmond, NSW on September 8 and sparked conversation between the lads.

They are not normally punters but reckoned they would each have a modest flutter on the dog.

After all, things were a bit boring as they were on an enforced fatigue break and this was an omen bet.

Anyway, Road Freight won from box two at the juicy odds of 12-1 and the drivers were delighted.

Most northern pub In the last edition we ran some pars on Australia’s most southern pub at Southport in Tasmania.

Spy can also reveal the

Stock wanders across the highway at Hay Plains in NSW.

most northern hotel which is Badu Island in the Torres Strait.

Badu is across the sea from the business capital of the Torres Strait – Thursday Island.

For many years Thursday Island claimed to have Australia’s most northern hotel, The Torres, which is also known as the top pub.

But Badu has disputed this especially in the past decade.

Saibai Island, near PNG, does have a canteen, however it is not an official hotel.

Dodging cattle Animals that wander onto a highway are a major problem for truckies and other motorists.

Kangaroos are the most common and can leave a lot of mess on the front and underneath vehicles.

But it is the bigger animals such as cattle and horses which are the most dangerous.

A driver sent Spy a pic of stock crossing in front of a truck on the Hay Plain Road in NSW. Hay Plain is a vast, flat region in the west of NSW, and on this occasion no damage was done.

There have been reports of cattle on unfenced sections of the Winton to Boulia Road.

Rooms required Two truckies who for long periods had rented rooms at a hotel in a big country town were given a month to find

alternative accommodation.

That was after the historical hotel was sold and they were told that rooms in the upstairs section would no longer have tenants.

One of the drivers, who has been seen on the pages of Big Rigs before, had been a tenant for more

than 20 years.

Whilst he was sad to leave, as the pub was not far from the local CBD, he took it on the chin, like he did fighting several times in a tough-man contest.

“Things change as does life and we have to move on,” he said.

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54 WHAT’S ON

FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Save the date for these industry events in 2021-22

email convoy@riseabovecbr. org.au.

Named in honour of the popular former show organiser, the Dane Ballinger Truck Show returns to Bathurst in November after a Covid-enforced break.

OCTOBER Lights on the Hill Memorial Convoy October 2-3 Gatton, Qld Visit: lightsonthehill.com.au The memorial convoy gives drivers and their families an opportunity to get together with other truckies in a social environment whilst making the public aware that truckies are the backbone of the country.

Convoy for Kids Sydney October 31 Sydney, NSW Visit: convoyforkids.com.au Since the first Convoy for Kids Sydney in 1992, truckies have raised nearly $3 million for kids’ charities and hospitals in NSW. The upcoming convoy will start from Huntingwood and arrive at Hawkesbury Showground in Clarendon for a fun-filled family day with rides, entertainment, food and stalls.

NOVEMBER Brisbane Convoy for Kids and Truck Show

November 6 Redcliffe Showgrounds, Queensland Visit: brisbaneconvoyforkids. com.au Raising money for Hummingbird House, the truck and bike convoy will run from Forest Lake to Redcliffe Showgrounds, where there will be a truck show with awards that include everything from Best Decorated Truck to Best Dressed Driver.

The evening will culminate in a spectacular fireworks display.

Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show November 20 Bathurst Showground, NSW Visit: bathursttruckshow. com.au Sponsored by Gilbert & Roach, Huntingwood and Vawdrey Trailers. Gates open 9am to 4pm. Featuring over 200 market stalls, food stalls, live entertainment and kids’ rides. Registration $40. Public entry $5, children under 12 free. Held in conjunction with the annual Bathurst Swap Meet Car &

Fleets of all sizes turn out in Canberra for this annual event to raise money and awareness for Rise Above – Capital Region Cancer Relief.

Bike Show on November 17.

Supporting 2BS Lions Christmas Miracle Appeal. For registration and further details email info@bathursttruckshow.com. au or phone Debbie on 0407 489 634, Haylie on 0438 316 150.

Illawarra Convoy November 21 Illawarra, NSW Visit: illawarraconvoy. com.au The Illawarra Convoy and Family Fun Day is the largest truck and motorbike convoy in the Southern Hemisphere, raising much needed funds for various charities.

JANUARY Tooradin Truck Show & Tractor Pull January 15 Rutter Reserve, Tooradin, Vic Visit: tooradintractorpull. com.au An annual event since 1998 and has grown into a fabulous family day. It is a non-profit event run by a committee of local community people putting all

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proceeds back into local clubs, schools and various charities.

Truck show runs from 10am to 6pm. No BYO. Adults $35, kids $10, family $85. Strictly no dogs.

For Truck Show inquiries phone Ashley Gorton on 0408 191 626 or for general enquiries email Allyn Reeve at allyn@reevetransport.com.au.

Canberra Rise Above Convoy January 30 Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC), ACT

Visit: convoy.riseabovecbr. org.au The Rise Above Convoy for Cancer Families is an annual event to raise money and awareness for Rise Above – Capital Region Cancer Relief.

Convoy starts at 10am, bound for Exhibition Park In Canberra (EPIC). Live music, kids’ entertainment and more. For further info see the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/riseabovecancerconvoy the website convoy.riseabovecbr.org. au, or phone 02 6297 1261,

FEBRUARY MEGATRANS February 16-18 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Visit: megatrans.com.au MEGATRANS is Australia’s leading industry freight and logistics trade exhibition and conference, showcasing multimodal transport solutions. For the first time, MEGATRANS will be held in conjunction with the specialised bulk handling expo, Australian Bulk Handling Expo 2021, with both events taking place side by side.

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

• Have you got an event you’d like included in the next Save the Date? Email all the details to editor@bigrigs.com.au.

Since the first Convoy for Kids Sydney in 1992, truckies have raised nearly $3 million for kids’ charities and hospitals in NSW.

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NEWS 55

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Applications open for Driving the Difference scholarships

Jacquelene Brotherton and Daimler CEO Daniel Whitehead.

TRANSPORT Women Australia Limited and Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific are calling for applications for a new round of Driving the Difference scholarships.

The Daimler-backed Driving the Difference initiative enables Transport Women Australia Limited to offer scholarships to six women this year.

First introduced in 2019, the scholarship program was developed by Transport Women Australia Limited

and Daimler for women in the transport and logistics industry and those wishing to join.

The scholarships enable women within the transport and logistics industry to undertake a course that will advance their careers or expand their knowledge to enhance their current position or give other women the chance to become part of the industry.

For more information about the program contact Transport Women Austra-

lia Limited chair Jacquelene Brotherton via email at chair@transportwomen.com.au, or by calling 0417422319. Applications close on October 29.

Scholarship recipients will be announced on November 16, 2021.

Brotherton says TWAL is delighted to offer six new scholarships as part of the program.

“We are so honoured to be able to join once again with Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific to present the “Driving the Difference” scholarships for the third year, to enhance participation of women in the transport and logistics industry,” said Brotherton.

Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific President and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, says the company is pleased to continue its support of the program.

“The TWAL Driving the Difference scholarship program is a fantastic initiative that Daimler Truck and Bus is proud to back,” Whitehead said.

“Daimler is firmly com-

mitted to supporting gender diversity and equitable practices in the trucking and transport industry.”

DTB was the first commercial vehicle manufacturer to be accredited with the

Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (ECOGE) in Australia.

The EOCGE classification is designed to encourage, recognise and promote

an active commitment to achieving gender equality in Australian workplaces and is a voluntary leading practice recognition program that is separate to the Equal Opportunity Act.

The 2019 scholarship winners (l-r): Sarah O’Brien, Kerri Connors, Manjusha Vanarla, and Katie Hannifey.

New augmented reality guide to workplace safety A handy new AR tool just released by Pro-Visual Publishing assists in recognising and controlling the key hazards associated with the transport

and logistics industry.

It includes the latest WHS regulatory guidelines and framework and is focussed on proactive prevention of

The new guide includes a section promoting individual mental health and improved wellness through education and resources.

injury, ill-health and essential information in order to help create a workplace safety culture of zero harm.

Mental Health is a primary focus of the Pro-Visual Publishing (AR) Interactive’s Transport & Logistics Industry Guide to Workplace Safety 2021/22 viewed through the framework of risk management, protecting workers from both physical and psychological workplace hazards, as well as human factors encompassing error prevention.

New Initiative Healthy Heads Trucks & Sheds Foundation is also promoted on the guide which offers critical support and sets out

Guiding Principles to improve psychological safety and physical health across the heavy vehicle and logistics industry by increasing the number of people trained in mental health at road transport facilities nationally; standardising policies and processes across transport and logistics industries to destress the environment for drivers; and focusing on individual mental health and improved wellness through education and resources.

Designed to be displayed in the workplace and distributed free of charge, Transport & Logistics Industry Guide to Workplace Safety 2021/22 is developed with

interactive augmented reality (AR) capabilities for use with a smart device. Just visit the Google or Apple stores and search for Pro-Vis AR to download the complementary app.

Together Pro-Visual Publishing and their partnering associations have carefully selected additional subject matter that addresses WHS issues pertinent to the industry, which includes: • COVID-19 Heavy Vehicle Jurisdiction Updates • Utilising the new Electronic Work Diary (EWD) as a fatigue management tool • On-Road Compliance and Enforcement which outlines

Regulatory Policy framework • Managing the risks of Diesel Exhaust Exposure Pro-Visual Publishing, CEO, John Hutchings said: “With a national focus on road freight transport as a priority industry under the Australian Work Health and Safety Strategy 2012-2022, the sector continues to have high rates of fatality and injury compared to other industries. Pro-Visual is concerned by these statistics and has a focussed commitment to improving safety in the Transport & Logistics sector, both on-road and off-road.”

For more information visit provisual.com.au.

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15 What is a pale-brown colour (7) 17 Which term describes the diameter of a bullet (7) 20 To be leading in, is to be doing what (8) 23 Which term suggests that one is having a meal (6) 24 What are inflatable rubber bags, used as children’s toys (8) DOUBLECROSS CROSSWORD 25 What is an instrumentality (6) 3

22

1 2 3 4 5 6

11

25

5

6

14

15

16

17

23

2

3

4

Down 1. Jail (8) 2. Initially (5) 4. Paddle (3) 5. Abstinence (5,7) 6. Dare (7) 7. Informant (colloq) (4) 8. Feeling, atmosphere (12) 12. Happen (5) 13. Leans (8) 15. Free time (7) 19. Punctuation mark (5) 20. Competent (4) 22. Low (3)

Across 1. Uncertain (colloq) (4) 3. Absolved (8) 9. Associate (7) 10. From inside (5) 11. Over time (2,3,4,3) 14. Night bird (3) 16. Succulent plants (5) 17. Immeasurable period of time (3) 18. Arranged by rank (12) 21. Violent person (5) 22. Tearfully sentimental (7) 23. Poll (8) 24. Colony insects (4)

11

14

15

19

20

5x5 R E E D S

ALPHAGRAMS: LEASE, MYRIAD, NEARING, ORGANIST, PATRONESS.

30

29 31

TODAY: Good 13 Very Good 18 Excellent 24

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

E T O N

A P E R A W E A T E S L T E S S O N E A R N T E D A P S

HARD

26

7

8

amir amrita aria arum atria atrium attar aura1 auric cart9 Lamina, 10 Awe, 11 Opus, 12 Rates, 14 Legal, 16 Across: Scar, carat 5 Paper, cram curt marc maria mart raita rata rimu tarmac tart tiara tract trait tram trauma TRAUMATICOdes, trim 19 Tire, 21 Risen, 24 Angel, 27 Tarn, 29 Tie, 30 Looted, 31 Opera, 32 Naps.

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Iffy 3. Forgiven 9. Partner 10. Inner 11. In the long run 14. Owl 16.

Cacti 17. Eon 18. Hierarchical 21. Brute 22. Maudlin 23. Election 24. Ants.

Down: 1. Imprison 2. First 4. Oar 5. Going without 6. Venture 7. Nark 8.

Undercurrent 12. Occur 13. Inclines 15. Leisure 19. Colon 20. Able 22. Moo.

U T

M I

25

DOUBLECROSS

21

Across 1 Cicatrice 5 Document 9 Thin plate 10 10 Respectful fear 11 Musical composition 12 Scolds 13 14 Within the law 16 Lyric poems ALPHAGRAMS 19 Weary Solve the anagrams. Each solution a one-word 21 isAscended anagram of the letters beside it, 24 and the five solutions Divine messenger are sequential. For example, if the five-letter solution 27starts Mountain lakeand so starts with J, the six-letter solution with K, 29 Neckwear 17 on.

30 Plundered EASEL 31 Musical drama DIM RAY 32 Short sleeps GRANNIE Down ROASTING 1 Narrow opening 22 23 TRANSPOSE 2 Headwear Insert 3 the missing Talismanletters to 5x5 make4ten words — five reading

Get up 27 28 across the grid and five reading A G R down.5 Processions 6 more Light blow Note: than one solution I G Female sheep may 7 be possible.

8 Reposes S A E 13 Drink R E 15 Ground-living ape 32 17 Musical work All puzzles © T S S The Puzzle Company 18 Greek philosopher 20 Anger 22 Superior English college 23 Extremities 25 Pinch 26 Command to a horse 28 Corded fabric

6

Down: 1 Slot, 2 Cap, 3 Amulet, 4 Rise, 5 Parades, 6 Pat, 7 Ewe, 8 Rests, 13 Ale, 15 Gorilla, 17 Sonata, 18 Plato, 20 Ire, 22 Eton, 23 Ends, 25 Nip, 26 Gee, 28 Rep.

GK CROSSWORD Across; 1 Pottery, 4 Conga, 7 Warp, 8 Monrovia, 10 Steve Davis, 12 Edison, 13 Slaves, 15 Clark Gable, 18 Anteater, 19 Pall, 20 Yonks, 21 Tetanus.

Down: 1 Pawns, 2 Turmeric, 3 Yeoman, 4 Cardiology, 5 Nova, 6 Amadeus, 9 New Orleans, 11 Eva Braun, 12 Estuary, 14 Argent, 16 Ellis, 17 Eton.

R

E G R E T

C A

A T

SUDOKU G E A R S

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word.

No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb.

24

12

16

18

WORD GO ROUND

5 24

9

SOLUTIONS

EASY

22

N I T R E

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

1

21

A S S E T

SUDOKU

19

20

HARD

Find a finished crossword by deleting one of the two letters in each divided square.

Name a renowned10Australian bushranger, Ben ... (4) Which monkey has a doglike muzzle (6) Name a carbonated soft drink (4) What is12a situation that is highly tragic (5) What is a goatfish also known as (6) 13 To cover with glass, is to do what (5)

18

EASY

7

8 Down

23 24

4

MOORE

QUICK CROSSWORD

10

6/6 DOWN 1 Which chess pieces are most numerous? (5) 2 What bright yellow powder is used for flavouring in Asian cookery? (7) 3 In early England, what was a small landholder between gentry and labourers? (6) 4 What branch of medicine is concerned with diseases and abnormalities of the heart? (10) 59 A star that then gradually fades is (6) To besuddenly open tobrightens all the people, is to be what called what? (4) 10

Which ancient officials performed clerical duties (7) 6 Which film, 1984’s Best Picture Oscar winner, was 12 in Name another filmed Prague?

(7) term for riffraff (6) 9 14 Where was Louis Armstrong born?

What is sight also called (6)(3,7) 11 Which woman was married on 29 April 1945, and died 16following Whichday? element the (3,5) occurs in a pure state as charcoal (6) 1218 What thechopping, widening channel of doing a river what where(5) saltwater Toisbe is to be mixes with freshwater? (7) 19

Name a renowned game of football (5) 14 In heraldry, what is the colour silver? (6) Whoofwas the from Australian Prime Ministerentry 19661621 Millions records which US immigration island are accessible...on 67, Harold (4)the internet? (5) 17 Which English college was founded by Henry VI in 22 (4) Which term describes “no one”, or the like (4) 1440?

SOLUTION

7

ACROSS 1 If you are a collector of Clarice Cliff, what do you collect?

(7) 4 What Latin American dance is performed by several people in single file? (5) 7 What are lengthwise threads on a loom? (4) 8 What is the capital of Liberia? (8) 10 In 1982, who made the first televised 147 break in snooker?

(5,5) Across 12 Which inventor (Thomas ____) took out more than a 4 T o injure or harm, is to do what (6) thousand patents in his lifetime? (6) 7 13 What isisantheillicit called What last lover word of “Rule(8) Britannia”? (6) Misfits on in 1961 was lastwhat film starring 8 15 To The be borne water, is the to be (6) Marilyn Monroe and which other actor? (5,5) 9 18 What is the use ofand more words thanaare Native to Central South America, tamandua is what type of animal? (8) necessary (8) What cloth is spread over a coffin? (4) 11 19 Name purveyor food (7) (5) 20 Whatthe is an informalof word foror “aprovisions very long time”?

13 21 What isdisease a grossisor stupid mistake (7) (7) What also known as lockjaw?

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Across: 4 Damage, 7 Paramour, 8 Afloat, 9 Pleonasm, 11 Caterer, 13 Blunder, 15 Biscuit, 17 Calibre, 20 Ushering, 23 Dining, 24 Balloons, 25 Agency.

4

A M A G E U L F L O A T L Z T E R E R T A G S C U I T A A E R I N G B O L O O N S N E

3

B C D R A M O U R B L A E O N A S M O C A U N D E R I V B I L I B R E S U S H O N I N G O B A L T E N C Y

2

H P A L P L U B L L I C A X D I N A G

1

Down: 1 Hall, 2 Baboon, 3 Cola, 4 Drama, 5 Mullet, 6 Glaze, 9 Public, 10 Scribes, 12 Ragtag, 14 Vision, 16 Carbon, 18 Axing, 19 Rugby, 21 Holt, 22 None.

G E N E R A1 L 7 K N O 9W L E 13D G E

FRIDAY JUNE 12 2020 BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

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PITTSWORTH PHONE (07) 4693 1088 Fax (07) 4693 1545 email: sales@mooretrailers.com.au www.mooretrailers.com.au IBRE01Z01MA - V1

CAREERS AND TRAINING 57

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 01 2021

Interactive online training to improve truck safety

HEAVY Vehicle Industry Australia’s Safety Through Education project will receive key funding through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative.

The project – one of 28 successful safety initiatives to receive a share of $5.5 million – will deliver two interactive online training tools covering best practice procedures for load restraint and tyre management.

HVIA CEO Todd Hacking said the HVSI funding would enable the association to contribute a valuable training resource towards improved heavy vehicle safety across the supply chain.

“We have identified two issues consistently over-represented in the NTARC Major Accident Investigation Report that we will now focus on: load restraint and tyre management,” Hacking said.

“This project will transform the volumes of written guidance information into simple, immersive and practical online education courses.”

“They will ensure heavy vehicle operators and other members in the chain under-

stand their responsibilities and refresh their knowledge as required.”

The Heavy Vehicle National Law has specific chain of responsibility provisions that places an obligation for parties in the chain, to ensure they conduct safe transport activities. That includes packing, loading, load restraint and vehicle roadworthiness. (Equivalent provisions apply in WA and NT).

While it is impossible to be prescriptive for the many different types, weights and shapes of loads that can be transported, anybody in the chain is responsible for complying with load restraint laws.

“Tyres are also critical to heavy vehicle safety,” Hacking added.

“There are many factors that can improve safety, from tyre choice, performance management, such as tread, wear and tyre pressure, and regular maintenance and safety systems can all improve performance and help mitigate tyre failures and keep road users safe.

“There is limited information available on these topics and just about every operator

can tell you about a ‘near miss’ experience.

Hacking said the education course will guide operators into a program of best practice tyre management, including maintenance, rotation and replacement policies, understanding what to look for, how to perform daily checks, and what systems are available to improve the safety outcomes of the most critical and most consumable heavy vehicle component.

“We hope every fleet owner or manager will see the value in making this part of their on-boarding process and build it into a program of refresher training that even the best and safest drivers should be receiving.

“The courses will provide a relevant, accurate, immersive educational experience, on a proven platform, enabling successful participation by drivers and workers across the supply chain and will lead to improved safety outcomes.”

Meanwhile, the HVIA also reports that the International Forum for Heavy Vehicle Transport and Technology will come to Brisbane for HVTT17 on the eve of the 2023 Bris-

Assistant Road Safety Minister Hon Scott Buchholz MP, right, congratulates HVIA CEO Todd Hacking on the HVSI grant.

bane Truck Show.

Brisbane has been announced as the venue for HVTT-17 at the closing ceremony of this year’s event held in Qingdao, China with delegates tuning in from around the world.

HVIA Chief Executive Todd Hacking said the conference brings together engineers, road managers, and industry.

The theme for the 2023 event in Brisbane from May 15-17 will be Ecosystem Evolution, said Hacking.

“We believe it harnesses the challenges and opportunities that we all face as the industry progresses the transformation to zero emissions vehicles.

“That takes in vehicles, systems, energy and infrastructure.”

Cahill Transport is Family owned and operated with an amazing history spanning 70 years.

We currently have various opportunities for Local & Linehaul Drivers/Forklift Operators.

HIRING

• • • • •

New and improved equipment National coverage - VIC/NSW/QLD/SA/WA/NT Long term opportunities Consistent Full Time Work Career Advancement and Training/ Upskilling Opportunities

To discuss our exciting opportunities contact 0459 900 608 or send your details through to sx@cahilltransport.com.au

LOCAL & INTERSTATE REFRIGERATED MC TRANSPORT OPERATOR

QUALIFIED & APPRENTICE DIESEL MECHANIC

ABOUT DRT Damorange Refrigerated Transport (DRT) is a family owned and operated Transport Company with its head office located in Werribee South, and depots located throughout Australia. We specialise in the transportation and storage of cold produce. Due to business growth we now have an exciting opportunity for experienced local & interstate MC transport operators to join our team.

ABOUT DRT Damorange Refrigerated Transport (DRT) is a family owned and operated Transport Company with its head office located in Werribee South, and depots located throughout Australia. We specialise in the transportation and storage of cold produce.

Due to business growth we now have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Diesel Mechanic and an Apprentice to join our team working from our Werribee South Depot.

WHY DRT? DRT maintains some of the latest trucks and equipment, and prides itself on providing and maintaining a supportive, friendly and safe working environment to all its employees.

WHY DRT? DRT maintains some of the latest trucks and equipment, and prides itself on providing and maintaining a supportive, friendly and safe working environment to all its employees.

YOUR DUTIES WILL INCLUDE (BUT NOT LIMITED TO): • Transportation of fresh cold produce throughout Victoria & other states • Participate in the loading and unloading of your vehicle • Daily Prestart checks on vehicles and equipment • Restraining loads correctly and safely • Correctly Managing fatigue on each journey • Completing and ensuring all required paperwork is collected, completed and handed in on time • Develop and maintain good relationships with all staff and stakeholders • Complying with all other DRT policies and procedures • Help DRT in achieving their safety & compliance goals in areas you have direct responsibility and adhering to all relevant WH&S legislation, policy and procedural requirements.

ABOUT THE ROLE As a Diesel Mechanic at DRT, you will maintain and carry out all necessary repairs/services on our modern fleet of trucks and trailers.

TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE, YOU WILL HAVE: • A current MC licence • A minimum of 2 years B-Double driving experience • Interstate experience (essential for the interstate roles) • Must undergo a pre-employment medical and provide VicRoads licence printout (Must not be older than two weeks from date of issue) • Basic Fatigue Management (BFM) Certificate (an advantage) • Experience in refrigerated produce transportation (market experience an advantage) • Forklift licence (Desirable) • Minimum 3 contactable references

You will be required to meet DRT’s pre-employment criteria which will include, but not be limited to a full medical with a drug and alcohol test.

APPLYING FOR THIS ROLE: To apply, please send through a copy of your resume, licence point extract and three contactable references to: s.splatt@damorange.com.au Please keep in mind that due to the amount of applications we receive, only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Easter Group Pty Ltd

YOUR DUTIES WILL INCLUDE (BUT NOT LIMITED TO): • Repair and maintenance of trucks and trailers; • Scheduled servicing and inspections; • Fault finding and troubleshooting; • Completing service sheets and other documentation neatly and tidy; • General workshop duties as required; • Complying with all other DRT policies and procedures; • Help DRT in achieving their safety & compliance goals in areas you have direct responsibility and adhering to all relevant WH&S legislation, policy and procedural requirements.

TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN THIS ROLE, YOU WILL HAVE: • Current Trade Qualification (Diesel Mechanic); • Valid Forklift Licence (an advantage); • Valid HR/HC/MC Truck Licence (an advantage); • Previous experience in Road Transport & Fleet Maintenance (an advantage) • Experience with Cummins & Volvo engines (an advantage) • Availability to work overtime and Saturdays (an advantage) • An attractive salary will be on offer for the right person.

• Immediate start available to the right person.

You will be required to meet DRT’s pre-employment criteria which will include, but not be limited to a full medical with a drug and alcohol test.

APPLYING FOR THIS ROLE: If you have an “Eye for Detail”, can work in a Team Environment and can work unsupervised this could be the position for you.

To apply, please send through a copy of your resume, licence point extract and three contactable references to: workshop@damorange.com.au

DUNSTAN’S LOW LOADER HAULAGE

73 Formation St, Wacol Easter Group, located in Wacol, provides time sensitive road transporting solutions to many companies throughout Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. .

We are a family owned business, operating since 1976.

We currently have the following positions available:

OPERATIONS ALLOCATORS (Brisbane based only)

You will be required to work on a rotating roster including Days-Nights-Weekends Previous Operations experience preferred.

MC LOCAL & LINEHAUL DRIVERS WANTED

(Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide Based) Come and work for us as we are committed to: • Training and further education • Your safety • Maintaining an impressive Fleet On offer are permanent full time and roster positions including paid leave entitlements and public holidays. Drivers will need to be available to be scheduled for work falling across the 7 days of the week.

The successful Applicant will: • Hold a current MC licence (minimum two years) • Have knowledge of the HVNL and Load Restraint • Be professional • Be reliable

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

We are a local Low Loader company located in Yatala that has been supplying heavy haulage transport services to all sectors of the industry for over 23 years.

We are seeking an EXPERIENCED HEAVY HAULAGE TRANSPORT OPERATOR to join our team. Work is based around South East Qld and includes Australia wide.

Duties of the Position: • Transportation of oversized loads to customer sites • Loading and unloading machinery • Ensure all loads are secure prior to and during transportation • Carry out general maintenance on both truck and trailers where necessary • Take personal pride in their vehicle and job • This is full time position including weekends which involves local and interstate work Essential Criteria • MUST possess a current MC Driver's Licence.

• Previous Low Loader experience in the transportation of oversize loads.

• Heavy Haulage experience.

• Have the ability to load and unload machinery.

• Familiar with OSOM Guidelines.

• Practice & perform to OH&S standards.

• Must be willing to work away when required.

• Be able to pass a Medical including a Drug & Alcohol test.

• Not essential but beneficial MSIC and white/ blue card holder.

CONTACT ADMIN@DUNSTANS.NET.AU

What we can offer you • Generous hourly rate & living away from home allowance.

• A great working environment and atmosphere.

Please note: • Only successful candidates will be contacted.

• Applicants must be physically located in Australia and must be Australian or New Zealand citizens or hold a permanent residency visa.

Successful applicants will be required to supply a current copy of their driving record and they will have to meet the companies' employment criteria, which will include a full medical with a drug & alcohol test.

We have a zero tolerance to drugs and alcohol in the workplace.

Please email your resume along with current references & a copy of your driving history to admin@dunstans.net.au

“The STRONG link in your supply chain!”

EMERALD REFRIGERATED LOGISTICS PTY LTD We are a small family run Queensland transport and logistics operation based in Rocklea Brisbane and Charlton Toowoomba specialising in refrigerated and general freight for delivery to west and northwest Queensland daily.

We service all communities between Roma and Mt Isa and our staff have grown to be a welcome part of the community’s they service.

We have several full-time vacancies for: • Intrastate Road Train Drivers.

• Local HC/MC Truck Drivers.

• Truck and Trailer Mechanics.

• Tyre Fitters Drivers with Current Medical, BFM and Experience preferred but those with little experience are encouraged to apply.

Call: Tom on 0409 617 195 or Geoff 0429 952 138 Trading as Ballard Freightlines

INTERSTATE GENERAL FREIGHT & BULK DRIVERS MELBOURNE & WAGGA WAGGA Rodney’s Transport Service is seeking experienced MC/B Double General Freight & Bulk Drivers to work out of Victoria and NSW • Permanent & Casual Roles • Great working conditions Working within fatigue management guidelines you will perform interstate line haul duties whilst adhering to all OH&S, legislative, site and contractual obligations. RTS requires professional drivers with – • Strong customer service experience • A safe driving record • Mature attitude • Minimum 2 years’ experience MC endorsed Reporting to the Manager Group Operations this is an exciting opportunity for highly motivated and experienced MC/B Double drivers who will be required to display a commitment to RTS safety and compliance standards and values whilst maintaining your equipment in good order.

You will be required to provide a copy of a current Licence and meet RTS employment criteria which will include a medical with drug and alcohol test.

Experienced drivers who can demonstrate: • Proficiency in all aspects of B Double truck operations • The ability to work within a team • A clear understanding of road transport legislation.

• A clean history of driving ability

If interested in applying for a position please complete the application form on our website www.rodneystransport.com.au or for further information please contact Anna on 03 9311 2300.