Big Rigs 15 October 2021

FRIDAY, October 15, 2021

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FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 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/Spy on the Road: Alf Wilson, 0408 009 301 Brent Davison; David Vile; David Meredith; Mike Williams, Jon Wallis Big Rigs National Road Transport Newspaper is published by Prime Creative Media. It is the largest circulated fortnightly truck publication in Australia with 26,023* copies per fortnight. *12 month average, publisher’s claim November 2018

Regulator strikes EU deal with operator for load violations THE NHVR has accepted an enforceable undertaking (EU) made by Victorian civil construction specialists Eifers Pty Ltd to the value of $44,000 in preference to obtaining a court ordered penalty against one of the company’s drivers.

An intercept by the regulator’s safety and compliance officers found that on October 22, 2019 a heavy vehicle operated by Eifers exceeded the prescribed mass limit and was in breach of section 96(1) of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).

The vehicle’s load was also inadequately restrained, contrary to section 111(1) of the HVNL, says the regulator.

It is alleged the tri-axle of the heavy vehicle weighed 28,650kg – a severe breach over the allowed limit of 20,000kg. It was also alleged an unrestrained excavator digging bucket was observed during the intercept.

The driver could have faced a conviction and fines up to $28,330 for the breaches however on the acceptance of the EU the NHVR withdrew all charges against the driver.

NHVR director of prosecutions Belinda Hughes said this EU was an example of an operator taking an active role in setting the standard for the safety and wellbeing of their staff.

“The measures committed

by Eifers in this enforceable undertaking include industry-specific training on safety and risk management for all staff, in order to achieve fast and measurable improvements for its business operations,” she said.

Under the EU, the Victorian-based company must complete mass and load restraint training, production of a heavy vehicle safety video, a new policies and procedure manual, and certification of safety management systems including quality management, occupational health and safety, and environmental performance.

An intercept by the regulator’s safety and compliance officers revealed a number of alleged breaches.

Truckie beats $690 ticket for alleged bridge curfew breach SOMETIMES common sense can prevail when fighting infringement notices, as a relieved Cathy Avenell and her truckie partner Ken Smith recently found out.

After Avenell successfully argued Smith’s case for a penalty notice review, Revenue NSW quashed the $690 ticket Smith received for allegedly breaching the truck curfew on the old Grafton bridge last month, by

just two minutes.

Smith had been on his way to Walgett from Casino at the time, and had called Avenell to ask for the best route for his B-double loaded with cattle. Avenell would normally be there in the cab with him but was stuck at home in Corinda under Covid lockdown orders.

A quick search by Avenell on her tablet showed a swing through Grafton as the best op-

tion, with a crossing of the old town bridge, both unaware that there was now a newer alternative open over the Clarence River just 70 metres downstream.

Smith said that on approach, however, the town’s signage sent him over the old road and rail crossing, known as Bendy Bridge, with no warning that the historic bridge had a morning truck curfew from 7.30am-9.30am.

The enforcement officers from the north-east Weight of Loads Group (WOLG) who were nearby also failed to warn him of the curfew conditions

by UHF, and that all he had to do was continue on a few metres more and cross the new bridge.

Instead, Avenell said they simply followed Smith’s Western Star across before issuing the ticket for allegedly crossing

at 9.28am – two minutes inside the curfew – and questioning whether his trailers were of legal length (they were).

A fuming Avenell later called the Ballina Shire Council, the WOLG administrators for the area, and made her case.

“As I explained to the officer, everyone’s watches and clocks are different and two minutes is not much to be out by,” said Avenell.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Solutions to ‘crippling’ toll regime for NSW truckies

ROAD Freight NSW (RFNSW) chief executive Simon O’Hara stressed that it is time now for the NSW government to look at rego or toll relief for the hardworking truckies who “help save our community through Covid”.

“We have seen light vehicle users and ‘grey nomads’ receive tolling relief in one form or another, from the NSW Government around rego and other things. Why not for hardworking truckies?” O’Hara argued.

“RFNSW welcomed the review of pricing on the state’s toll-roads, including the potential for the introduction of distance-based tolling, hoping more would be done to provide financial relief to trucking operators with ever-increasing tolls and administration costs putting a stranglehold on road freight businesses, workers and their families.”

O’Hara echoed the RFNSW’s written submission outlining a number of solutions to the crippling toll regime for the trucking fraternity including a ‘per km’ distance-based tolling system, daily cap on tolls for transport operators and off-peak tolling

discounts which could also deliver less congestion and improved road safety for the community.

“Different incentives would offer a range of savings and those savings in logistics and freight are much more than dollars and cents,” said O’Hara.

“This is not the first time we have raised these issues and we are open to dialogue on how we can make it work to happen.

“We want to focus on a remedy for our freight operators that is fair and equitable for the industry.”

National Road Transport Association CEO Warren Clark said Transurban boss Scott Charlton needs to backtrack on a statement he made on September 20.

“Mr Charlton said the government sets the toll price and its annual rate of increases and they’re not his problems,” Clark said.

“Nothing stops Transurban giving rebates or multi-use discounts to truck operators to encourage them to use its roads.

“Mr Charlton’s company just paid $11.1 billion for the

Peak bodies have put forward a number of solutions to help offset the prohibitive toll costs on Sydney roads.

purchase of the State Government’s remaining stake in WestConnex and made an 80 per cent return on its shareholding last year.

“Most NatRoad members are owner-operators or small businesses working on a profit margin of 2.4 per cent.

“By any stretch of the imagination, Transurban can afford

to cut truck drivers a break.”

Clark said the heavy vehicle industry had been “knocked from pillar to post” by rising costs during the pandemic but had kept essential goods and services moving.

“If government and toll operators want to get trucks back onto tollways, they need to provide some relief,” he said.

“Variable toll rates for offpeak journeys or discounts for multiple journeys would be one very practical way of keeping trucks off suburban streets, improving environmental outcomes and making travel less congested and safer.”

NatRoad gave evidence that annual toll bills of up to $100,000 are not unknown in

Sydney, and one of its member companies pays more in tolls for a round trip between the Western Suburbs and the Northern Beaches that it does in driver wages for the round trip.

“Trucks attract tolls that are generally three times greater than those for cars, and up to 11 times more than a motorist in registration charges,” Clark said.

“With the exception of the Harbour Bridge, every Sydney toll road is run by private companies, and all but two are operated by Transurban.

“We want incentives for heavy vehicles to use toll roads and for the state government to appoint an independent regulator to impose fair and consistent pricing rules to each toll road.

“Tolling companies should only be able to apply higher charges on tollways if they can show they are delivering improvements.”

The inquiry received 230 written submissions in all and is holding a series of video hearings in support, with the final session scheduled for November 1.

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4 NEWS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckie apprenticeship idea moves into a higher gear

BY JAMES GRAHAM

BETTER late than never: that seems to be the consensus from industry to the news that we may finally be getting a formal apprenticeship pathway for new heavy vehicle drivers.

Australian Industry Standards (AIS), a government-funded independent not-for-profit organisation that provides technical and administrative support, to develop vocational qualifications, got the ball rolling late last month with the release of a consultation paper.

Submissions answering seven key questions identified in the paper by the Transport and Logistics Industry Reference Committee, a group of industry professionals tasked with overseeing the discussion phase, were due to close on October 15.

AIS CEO Paul Walsh tells us that it’s vital that the industry show as much support as possible to enable the committee to take its early findings to the next level with state and territory jurisdictions.

Vehement backer Colin Dyne, a truckie for more than 40 years who is now training

AIS CEO Paul Walsh.

new recruits in WA, has been “banging the drum” for the apprenticeship pathway for drivers for more than 10 years.

“The industry is fraught with a lot of complications and problems – licensing being on eof them – but I think this is a huge positive and huge step forward,” said Dyne, who runs Dynamic Driver Training.

“Myself, and a lot of guys involved in the industry for any length of years, have seen this as a necessary for a long time.

“Everyone’s been up their arse in crocodiles, but everyone forgot to drain the swamp.

“Most road train and B-double drivers are senior

men and women, but in few years’ time they are going to be looking at retiring and we do not have an up-and-coming generation with the skillset and experience to be able to take that over and run with it.”

Walsh, a former truckie himself, believes a lack of a cohesive voice amongst the industry on the issue, and an over-reliance on migration has kept the brakes on any progress on the apprenticeship front until now.

But the wide-spread driver shortage in most sectors, exacerbated by Covid pandemic restrictions, is clearly one of the major factors now helping to mitigate long-standing pockets of resistance.

“Until now we’ve found other ways to cope with the shortage without having to actually do something,” said Walsh.

“In the last 12 months we’ve seen the likes of the VTA, Western Roads Federation and the Tasmanian Transport Association try to address this in a different way by creating that pipeline of workers coming through that are getting some form of formal training. This just takes this to the next level.”

How it would work The discussion paper proposes two distinct apprenticeship pathways of two to three years: one for those already working in the industry, regardless of whether they have a current truck licence, and the other for school leavers.

“The big step is addressing the pathway from school,” adds Walsh.

“The issue has always been that if you leave school at 17 or 18 you can’t jump straight into this; you’ve got a gap and that creates a pattern of going off and trying something else, and then they don’t come back for a while.

“This creates an opportunity to provide a Cert 2 pathway, that could potentially be out of school, or while they

are still at school.

There are other considerations of course before this gets off the ground, such as the supervision requirements for both licences and unlicenced apprentices, and how an apprentice program would work in tandem with current state/ territory licensing laws.

In the discussion paper, the committee says this con-

Supporters hope the apprenticeship plan will help promote driving as a career option for school leavers.

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NEWS 5

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 versation could include a shift to competency-based rather than the time/age-based approach currently employed to licence progression.

Walsh says there also needs to be conversations with insurance companies around how a new apprenticeship training model might help positively alter the risk profile of younger heavy vehicle drivers, and lower the associated premiums accordingly.

“There are a lot of little hurdles still to clear, but I don’t think there is a showstopper,” said Walsh.

“If there had been one, the committee would not have come forward.

“For me, it’s more about not letting the small things get in the way of what is really a good idea.

“I think everyone has always believed that there is a need for something to professionalise the industry, to make it more attractive to people to come in, and not a destination of last resort, but an actual genuine career option.”

What happens next Walsh says the biggest factor at this stage of the scheme is for the trucking industry to show its support for the scheme.

After the submissions close on October 15 – visit australianindustrystandards.org.au to have your say and to find out more – the committee will collate the feedback at the end of the month and develop a further response from there.

If there is enough positivity around a way forward, says

Reader reaction

If all goes to plan the apprenticeship scheme could be up and running as early as 2022.

Walsh, the next step is for the committee to make a recommendation for the qualification to become an apprenticeship with the various states and territories, which are each responsible for governance.

“We’ve already started to talk to them about what this may mean,” he said.

“But the biggest thing in any of these conversations is that demonstration of industry support is critical.

“If you can show there is genuine support from industry, then you have a very strong likelihood of this going ahead.

“This would be ready to come off the blocks by early 2022 if all the support is right and everything goes well.”

The Australian Trucking Association is just one of the peak bodies to throw its sup-

port behind the concept.

“The ATA has long called for stronger and more comprehensive truck driver licensing and training,” said ATA chair David Smith.

“There is a significant skills shortage that must be addressed as a matter of urgency.”

Smith also thanked Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport, Scott Buchholz, for his commitment to industry training and this issue.

With 25 years of industry experience himself, Buchholz says he knows first-hand the effect that professionalising the industry would have for the transport sector and the people in it.

“This is a process that started some time ago, as a result of industry feedback and we’ve

worked closely and consulted with industry stakeholders,” Buchholz tells Big Rigs.

“There are a number of steps in front of us, which we are progressing. We’ll work with the states to progress the proposal for a formal, driver apprenticeship.

“Let me be very clear, I realise that introducing apprenticeships and professionalising the industry through a formal recognise skilled trade apprenticeship, will not address the driver shortages of today.

“However, this measure will go a long way in attracting the next generation of men and women transport and logistic operators to our industry, as we seek to provide a framework that the skills of operators are formally recognised and transferable.”

Garry Martin As an ex-driver trainer and driver of b-doubles & diesel mechanic for over 30 years an apprenticeship is a great call, this problem of lack of drivers is self-made problem by the truck industry itself, this apprentice idea has come far too late. I was lucky to grow in the industry back in the 80s and the trucks worth $100k then they got bigger in the 90s now over $750k for a basic b-double. A TAFE course should have basic compulsory core unit eg rigids, trailers, manual transmissions, then company’s could chose electives eg tippers, road tankers, etc.

You have to hold 36units to be a diesel mechanic and 4 years, so should drivers. It’s a complex job now and we need skilled people to do it properly.

Dave Grub Milligan They should start off working in the yard , helping in the workshop, driving the forklift loading and unloading ,learning about trucks and then work their way up in vehicle sizes by going out with other drivers before their even allowed out on their own.

Michael Collins Most definitely!!

It’s pretty much the way we all learnt pre these ri-

diculous schools!!

bloody

driving

Colin Andrew I’ve said for ages this is what’s needed. Give it 3 years and the young drivers being pulled over will have a far greater knowledge of transport and the law than the police or nhvr.

Matthew Haslberger The yanks have been doing this for ages, actual driving schools either standalone or internal with the huge chain companies. You learn on the job with experienced trainers, not just a few laps with a driving school like it is here then off you go.

John Norton Driving schools have a lot to answer for, they teach you to drive but nothing about loading and load restraints, i remember one bloke and probably a lot more had 22 pellets put on but knew nothing about straps and angles, he was refused the load and told to leave.

Kris Jacobson An apprentice scheme should be planned by industry leaders that have NO conflicts of interest or industry group connections.

There would be many experienced fellas with genuine intentions and a scope of all divisions of the industry.

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6 NEWS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Industry support critical to health program growth

A little over a year after the launch of Health in Gear – a customised health and wellbeing program for owner-drivers – and the data in the first annual report speaks volumes to foundation CEO Darren Black.

Despite the many Covid lockdowns tapping the brakes on delivery, the feedback from the field so far has only strengthened Black’s resolve to expand the much-needed service in coming months.

Almost 600 drivers stopped to chat and learn more about what the program was all about during the nine ‘Truckie Tune-Up’ roadside events by the Health in Gear team in recent weeks.

A heartening 85 of those took part in the short health checks which check everything from blood pressure and cholesterol to Body Mass Index and waist measurement.

“We then encourage them to go and see their GP and get a full medical,” said Black, who heads up governing body OzHelp, a leading provider of health and wellbeing programs for hard to reach workers in high risk industries.

OzHelp CEO Darren Black.

“Nearly four out of 10 who went through the check went to see their GP within three weeks of the health check.

“It’s a really good encouraging sign. We can then scale that up and have hundreds of drivers going through, and that’s when you’ll start to have some really good health impacts.

“Ninety-eight per cent of guys who did the initial health checks have said this is a program that they’d recommend to their mates and colleagues.”

Black says the next step is to get more industry support for the initiative.

Although the ‘boots-onthe-ground’ program received

$200,000 in the latest round of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, Black says that funding only goes so far.

“It allows us to get back on the road in NSW and the ACT, and manage the project for another 12 months to do data collection and evaluation, but it is limited,” concedes Black.

“We’re already getting requests to take the health checks to Queensland and Victoria and we’re having to say we’d love to come and support you, but the industry is going to have to start to stump up and make a contribution.”

For all the bumps in the road, however, Black says it’s clear that the face-to-face approach is the way to go with drivers when it comes to talking about their physical and mental health, especially those in the older cohort.

“The more often we can have these types of conversations it normalises and destigmatises talking about it.

“It’s not about making oneoff visits to a DC or a truck stop.”

That’s been the most encouraging element of all so far

Truckie and program ambassador Rod Hannifey undergoes a Health in Gear roadside health check.

for Black, seeing first-hand the difference it makes when you make a connection with the driver in their place of work.

“It’s very rewarding to see that the process is working.

“There is a lot of pressure on drivers at the moment.

The pandemic has had, and is

having, a significant impact on them, not just from practical logistical standpoint.

“But, at other end of spectrum, there is a lot of gratitude in terms of the fact we’re prepared to put our people out there on the road, rain hail or sunshine, and run these road-

side health checks and be there in support.”

• O ctober is Mental Health Month. For more tips, information, webinars and podcasts, visit healthingear.com.au, or call 1800 In Gear (1800 464 327) Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm.

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Penske unveils new construction workhorse

A year after launching the 49X in the US, Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) has taken the covers off its smaller brother, the Western Star 47X. Official distributor here, Penske, says both X-Series models are expected to be on the market in Australia later next year.

“It’s very exciting to see the 47X unveiled today in the United States following on from the launch of the 49X last year,” said Craig Lee, general manager – on-highway, Penske Australia.

“We are thrilled to be launching the new Western Star range in late 2022 in Australia, and shortly after that in New Zealand.

“Our local teams here in Australia and New Zealand have worked closely with the Western Star team in the US on the development of the new trucks to tailor them for our local markets in both Australia and New Zealand and will continue to do so.

“Boasting lighter yet tougher cabin frames and steel-reinforced cabins, and with features including wrap-around dashboards, our customers will surely be impressed when they

see the trucks in person and step foot into the cabin.”

While the 49X is aimed at applications such as logging, the 47X is pitched squarely at the larger construction market, with a shorter hood and a wheel cut up to 50 degrees.

The 47X is approximately 90kg lighter than the 49X in like-for-like spec and is best for weight-sensitive applications like mixers and bulk haul, say its designers.

The X-Series steel-reinforced aluminium cab further reduces mass by up to 8 per cent while offering greater driver comfort with 13 per cent more space than competitors.

An optional two-person bench seat is available for applications demanding a large on-site crew, and a new space-optimised, in-cab battery box affords additional legroom to the operator.

An optional roof-mounted condenser offers maximum airflow through the radiator for stationary applications like construction and mining while keeping operators comfortable.

“A key priority was to consider how to reduce mass without compromising strength,” said Tracy Mack-Askew, chief

NEWS 7

For weight-sensitive applications, both the Cummins L9 and X12 engines are available for the tough new 47X.

engineer of chassis, propulsion and vocational engineering, DTNA. “From the cab to the frame rails, to powertrain and battery configurations, we examined all features to deliver weight savings.”

The 47X comes standard with the Detroit DD13 Gen 5 engine, which features higher compression ratios and a new swirl piston design to further improve combustion and

efficiency. ThermoCoasting in the DD13 Gen 5 prevents aftertreatment cool-down during a driving regen to keep the system at its optimum temperature and significantly reduce the need for parked regens.

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offered on both Cummins engine offerings and the Detroit DD13.

The 47X is also offered with the all-new DT12-V transmission, which is built on the proven DT12 and has more than 35 million miles of vocational-specific testing.

The DT12 includes three work-ready mode applications: Rock-free mode, Offroad mode, and Paver mode for the challenges of specific

vocational applications.

Standard for any 47X equipped with the DD13 Gen 5, the Detroit Assurance suite of active safety systems brings industry-leading active safety solutions to the vocational segment, including active brake assist, side guard assist, adaptive cruise control and more to keep operators, workers at the job site, pedestrians, and other motorists safe, adds the launch media release.

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8 OPINION

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Pathway to great career

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

IT will be fascinating to see what comes out of the next stages of the consultation paper for the proposed truckie apprenticeship.

Submissions were due to close on October 15, and if there is enough support, this long-awaited pathway could be up and running by early next year.

That’s some of the best news I’ve heard in my three years in this role.

Sure, an apprenticeship system alone isn’t going to fix all the issues in the driving ranks.

But it’s a bloody good start.

Suddenly there is now a clear, professional pathway for youngsters who have no pre-existing family connection with trucking. Their parents can also be reassured that their children are guaranteed a job at the end of the training.

Truck driving should never be seen as a job of last resort.

It also opens up state and federal funding tranches.

All we need now is for the insurance companies and jurisdictions to get on board.

HOT WEB TOPICS

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

Truckies quit over jab rule

JobKeeper cash-in

WHEN we shared the stories of two Victorian interstate truckies who decided to quit their jobs after mandatory jab rules came into effect, there was very much a mixed reaction from readers.

The post garnered over 600 comments on the Big Rigs Facebook page.

“People just don’t like being told what to do, and if there’s a way to make noise about it, they will.

It’s a choice people have to make. If it’s a condition of employment, then they also have a choice to not work there,” wrote Kerry Garner.

“A lot us are over 55, and we don’t want a vaccination that could stop us getting really ill and let us keep working,” said Mark Davis.

“The problem is you can still get covid and you can still die from covid even when fully vaccinated, I’m also not sure that driving a truck would put one in a high risk category, unlike health professionals,” commented Valerie Ker. “Good for them. Freedom of choice is a must in everything we Clinton Relf washes the Kenworth T404 SAR for the last time. do,” added Gillian O’Day.

AN investigation published in our last issue about numerous ASX-listed companies cashing in on JobKeeper gained a lot of attention from readers.

On Facebook, Blake Mitchell wrote, “They will just make the little guys cover the costs as always. How does one return a dividend to their shareholders and as plain as day rip the government off?”

“I run a small transport company with my wife. We employ 7 drivers, and we DIDN’T apply for Jobkeeper because we didn’t think it was the right thing to do! Gee, I wish I did now,” said Darran Bairstow.

“Disgusting, nothing less. It should be made public and those who’ve been delaying the repayment of the monies should be getting charged interest daily until the debt is settled,” added Michael Devos.

“All these big companies rort the system. If it was us we’d be facing a fine n jail time,” said Denis Pavlinovich.

“They knocked back my application, then these wankers clean up,” wrote Lee Jarvis.

The need for toll relief

RFNSW chief executive Simon O’Hara stressed it is time the NSW government looks at rego or toll relief for our hardworking truckies.

THERE have been renewed calls for toll relief for Sydney truckies at a NSW parliamentary inquiry, with peak trucking bodies sending a loud and clear message that’s been echoed by Big Rigs readers.

On social media, Ann Ray posed the question, “Why do truck companies get hit so much especially when they carry this country?”

“Governments shouldn’t spend money on stadiums and then build toll roads when they should be freeways,” wrote Mark Lillywhite.

“If you’re going to force trucks onto toll roads then some concessions need to be given. They need to drop truck tolls by at least 30% or do the cash-back scheme like the M5 for cars,” suggested Tony Stephens.

While Ian Campbell added, “Truckies like the rest of us get spoken down to by some bouncy academic at a university who can only drive auto. Dribbles on about this and that in research while we who have driven millions of kms without an accident have to cop it on the chin!”

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

$932m Bruce Highway upgrade

THE Sunshine Coast’s biggest ever infrastructure project is now complete, with $932 million spent to upgrade the Bruce Highway to six lanes between Caloundra Road and the Sunshine Motorway.

Here’s what our readers had to say.

“That’s a ridiculous amount of $$ for such a short piece of the ‘Bruce’ that needs improvement, promised but not delivered,” wrote Graeme Meade on the Big Rigs Facebook page.

Deborah Skennar agreed, “Nearly a billion dollars... what a disgrace.”

“So now instead of people blocking 2 lanes for no reason, it’s 3 lanes blocked for no reason.

You can have it 10 lanes each way and it will still get backed up if they don’t enforce the bloody keep left rule,” said Ash Black.

While Kathy Jean asked, “Of course what about the rest of Queensland’s highways?”

“Now time to upgrade the highway between Yaamba and Sarina,” added John M Mc- Works for the project began back in May 2017, so the upgrades Gowan. have been a long time coming.

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10 NEWS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Nolan’s welcomes first Benz trucks to the fleet

NOLAN’S Interstate Transport has welcomed three Mercedes-Benz trucks to its fleet, the first of seven to join its growing ranks this year.

The Lockyer Valley-based family business recently took delivery of the three 2663 Mercedes-Benz Actros models following a positive experience with an Actros

demo that was provided by Daimler Trucks Brisbane.

Four additional 2663 units will join the fleet in the next few months.

“I’ve had a long relationship with [sales manager] Steve McDonald and he suggested we have a go with an Actros demo,” says Nolan’s Interstate Transport Director, Adrian ‘Flea’ Nolan.

“We put it on and we were really impressed.

“The fuel consumption was the biggest thing, but the drivers really liked it too, which is important.”

The 2663 features a 16-litre six-cylinder engine with 625hp and 3000Nm of torque that meets the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard.

Nolan’s took delivery of its first three Mercedes-Benz models following a positive experience with an Actros demo that was provided by Daimler Trucks Brisbane.

It uses a 12-speed Automated Manual Transmission with a refined crawler function for easy low speed maneuvering.

The Nolan’s Interstate Transport Actros trucks also feature the innovative Predictive Powertrain Control system, which uses topographic map data to help the truck anticipate terrain and select the optimum shift pattern and engine response for maximum fuel economy.

Like all Actros models, the 2663 features the Multimedia Cockpit system, which consists of two large customisable tablet screens that present driver information in super crisp detail.

Nolan’s Interstate Transport places a high importance on safety, which has always been a priority for Mercedes-Benz.

The Actros features the fifth generation Active Brake

Four additional 2663 units will join the fleet in the next few months.

Assist radar/camera Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS), which can now automatically perform full emergency braking for vehicles and pedestrians.

Mercedes-Benz has included the AEBS system as standard specification in Aus-

tralia for 10 years, and the tradition continues with the new truck.

All new Mercedes-Benz Actros models are supported with a complimentary Best Basic service plan that applies for 500,000km or five years, whichever comes first.

Linfox takes charge with its first refrigerated EV truck

ONLY the second truck of its kind on Australian roads, the Volvo FL Electric has also become the first electric vehicle to join Linfox’s refrigerated fleet.

The truck has joined the Woolworths Group’s fleet and will be used to deliver fresh produce from the Melbourne fresh food distribution centre operated by the Woolworths Group’s supply chain arm Primary Connect, to stores across metropolitan Melbourne.

Primary Connect and Linfox have partnered on the launch of the vehicle as part of a trial to explore opportu-

nities for EVs in the supply chain and will be monitoring its performance over the coming months.

There are now 75 Volvo FL Electrics released globally.

Linfox’s new addition is the first Volvo FL electric vehicle in Australia to be fitted with refrigeration.

Capable of carrying eight pallets of produce at a time, the Volvo FL Electric uses four batteries to achieve an energy capacity of 200 kWh. However, with the ongoing battery development, future iterations will feature a capacity of 265kWh. The electric driveline

The refrigerated EV can travel up to 200km before needing to be recharged.

provides 425Nm of torque which is delivered to the rear wheels via a two-speed automated transmission.

Like its diesel-powered counterparts, the Electric

FL maintains a full suite of active safety systems including Autonomous Emergency Braking. The Electric FL also achieves the rigorous Swedish BOF10 crash rating which

surpasses current European standards.

Acting managing director of Primary Connect and chief supply chain officer of Woolworths Group, Chris Brooks said, “From the products in our supermarkets to the trucks that deliver them, we know the changes we make to become more sustainable today will create a better tomorrow for generations to come.

“We supply more than 1000 supermarkets across the country, and the ongoing development of heavy electric trucks represents an opportunity for us to drive positive change on Australia’s roads.

“We will be watching the results of this trial closely with Linfox to understand how electric trucks can support our shift to a low carbon future in the years ahead.”

The environmentally friendly EV also has ‘regen’ capability which means every time it travels downhill or brakes, the battery can recharge.

A charging station at the Melbourne Fresh DC will boost the battery while deliveries are unloaded. The EV can travel up to 200km before needing to be recharged and takes nine hours to fully recharge.

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12 COVER STORY

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

New Fuso packs a punch

With a powerful 13-litre engine on board, the all-new Shogun muscles its way into duty as a versatile metro and intrastate workhorse.

The Shogun 510 is rated at 63-tonnes Gross Combination Mass and is capable of hauling a single or double trailer set.

PUTTING bigger engines in vehicles is a very Australian thing to do.

So, it should have come as no surprise that when Fuso Japan received a request to put a bigger engine in the heavy-duty Shogun it came from Australia.

Six years later and the Shogun 510 has finally been launched in Australia and across the ditch in New Zealand.

Previously available with 8-litre and 11-litre engines from the Daimler stable, the Shogun now also boasts a 13-litre six-cylinder powerplant.

With 510hp and 2500Nm on tap, the Shogun 510 goes to the top of the Japanese heavy-duty class with a huge torque advantage over its rivals. It is the most powerful Euro 6 Japanese heavy-duty truck available.

Designed for metro and intrastate transport, the Shogun 510 is rated at 63-tonnes Gross Combination Mass and is capable of hauling a single or double trailer set, or working as a brawny tipper and dog combination.

Daimler Truck and Bus President and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, says the idea for the 13-litre Shogun came from customers who wanted a Japanese truck with more power.

“We pushed hard to get the 13-litre engine into the Shogun for our market because our customers made it clear they wanted a Japanese heavy-duty truck with serious performance,” Whitehead said.

He says having access to the Daimler engine family meant a high-performance Shogun was possible because Fuso didn’t have to justify

developing an engine from scratch.

The 13-litre engine that made its way into the Shogun is the Euro 6 OM471 six-cylinder, the same engine used in the Mercedes-Benz Actros and similar to the DD13 in the Freightliner Cascadia.

It produces its maximum power at 1600rpm, while its maximum torque of 2500Nm is available from just 1100rpm.

Usable torque is the go here and 86 per cent of maximum torque available from just 800rpm, while 84 per cent of maximum torque is still available at 1700rpm.

It achieves this with an asymmetric turbocharger and the latest generation common rail system with variable pressure boosting, which also helps achieve good fuel consumption.

A 12-speed fully automat-

ed transmission (AMT) features the clever EcoRoll fuel saving coasting system, while a powerful three-stage jake brake gives the driver more control without overusing the service brakes.

The Shogun 510 will only be available in Australia and New Zealand to start with, but there is a good chance it will also appear in Japan, where the Shogun is called the Super Great.

The testing program for the Shogun 510 was a global operation with testing carried out in Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

Australia also played its part with an early prototype heading out into the outback for heat testing in 2017 and final production unit hitting the east coast last year.

Fuso Truck and Bus Australia Director, Alex Müller, says the arrival of the Shogun

The ergonomic Shogun interior includes a push button start, 7-inch high resolution touch-screen centre display and a premium leather-wrap steering wheel.

510 represents an important milestone for Fuso in Australia.

“The introduction of the highly anticipated Shogun 510 means Fuso is now an even stronger contender in the Australian heavy-duty seg-

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COVER STORY 13

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 8-litre, 11-litre and 13-litre engines, with 360, 400, 460 and now 510hp. Configurations include 6x4 and 4x2 prime movers and tippers and 8x4, 6x4 and 6x2 rigids, including the recently-introduced 14-pallet Shogun 360.

There is a mixture of air and steel spring rear suspension options and Limited Slip Differentials (LSD) are available.

An active safety package that sets a new bar for safety in the Japanese heavy-duty class is standard across the range.

The new Shogun range further raises driver protection levels with new and upgraded safety features that are unique to the class.

The Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS) technology and an enhanced Active Attention Assist (AAA) system have been upgraded.

Rigid Shogun models, with a wheelbase of more than 4300mm, come standard with Active Sideguard Assist.

The latest version of this smart safety system uses a radar to detect a vehicle, cyclist, pedestrian or any physical obstruction on the passenger side blind spot when the truck turning left or moving into a lane to the left and issue a warning.

It can now also initiate braking in addition to the warning in order to avoid or mitigate a collision or impact

The 13-litre engine that made its way into the Shogun is the Euro 6 OM471 six-cylinder, the same engine used in the Mercedes-Benz Actros.

at speeds of up to 15km/h.

All Shogun models benefit from the latest generation of the AEBS that now uses camera and radar camera technology to provide enhanced pedestrian sensing capability, making it able to completely stop for a moving pedestrian in the event the driver does not respond to an audible warning. This system is stan-

dard on all Shogun models, as is radar adaptive cruise control.

Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), a driver airbag, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Hill Start System (HSS) assistance function continue as standard elements of the Shogun safety package.

Also new across the range

is Intelligent Headlight Control, which automatically turns on and off the truck’s highbeam function in response to traffic and is standard. Daytime LED running lamps, positioned below the main headlight assembly are now also standard on all new Shogun models.

The ergonomic Shogun interior, complete with its

Daytime LED lamps below the main headlight are now standard.

push button start, 7-inch high resolution touch-screen centre display with easy to reach controls, carry over unchanged, but the range-topping 510 model gains a pre-

mium leather-wrap steering wheel.

Fuso says Shogun models feature class-leading servicing intervals across the range. Customers can enjoy increased peace of mind with the option of popular service plans, which ensure their truck is serviced with genuine parts, by factory-trained technicians across the expansive Fuso network.

The Shogun is also backed by a generous Fuso manufacturer warranty that covers the truck for five years or 500,000km, whichever comes first.

Shogun 510 key specs Engine: 12.8-litre six-cylinder Euro 6 Performance: 510hp and 2500Nm Transmission: 12-speed fully automated transmission (AMT), no manual option GVM: 26,000kg GCM: 63,000kg Rear suspension: Air Variants: 6x4 Prime mover and 6x4 rigid

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14 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

‘As long as I’m fit and healthy, I’ll keep going’

At 77 years of age, this interstate truckie and his 1986 Kenworth W show no signs of slowing down.

A shot of his beloved Kenworth W924, taken around 20 years ago.

Ian Bird’s 1986 Kenworth W924 looks nearly as good as it did the day he bought it.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI A lot has changed for Ian Bird since he first starting driving trucks over half a century ago at the age of 22.

He bought his first rig, a small Commer in 1967, followed by a few other trucks including an International Acco 3070 he had from about 1975 to 1986, before splashing out on a brand new 1986 Kenworth W924, which he still has to this day.

While the Kenworth W-Model is now highly sought after, it never left Bird’s side.

Over the years, the truck has certainly been put through its paces, with Bird doing

regular runs from his Melbourne base to WA and up north. These days it’s mainly carting machinery into mine sites throughout the Pilbara or Kimberley regions or heading up north into outback Queensland. It’s usually doubles heading west and triples when he goes up north.

“It’s a very good old truck but it’s been through a few engines, diffs and gearboxes over the years. It’s up to its fifth engine now,” Bird said.

“As time went on, I kept repairing things so there’s not a lot of original stuff left on it now. It’s still a nice thing to drive. For many years, I used to knock out about 200,000km a year on it, but

Bird’s work is wide and diverse, taking him all over Australia.

in the past ten years or so I’ve been doing about half that.”

Bird says his love of trucks was sparked by his father. “He and his brother had trucks during the war and I was always interested in hearing the stories of what my father used to do. He was involved with trucks from before I was even born,” said Bird.

“But for trucks it was a different world back then. There were only really rigids and stuff like that. Nothing like the triples we have now.

“Road trains are getting closer and closer to the big cities now. It was pretty hard when I started with road trains, you had to go such a long way out before you could

hook it up. To go to Perth, we used to hook them at Wentworth at the NSW border – although we couldn’t even do that in the beginning. It’s gotten a lot easier now. There weren’t many of us doing it when those permits first came through.

“I think it’s probably a better job now than what it was.

You were always under constant pressure years ago. To a certain extent you still are today, but you seem to be able to get the rest you need now.

“If you went back to the 1980s I wouldn’t have recommended it as a career path then. I never pushed my son into it or anything but I really think it’s a better job today than it used to be.”

While much has gotten easier as time has gone on, Bird says having to cross borders during a pandemic has brought about a new set of challenges.

“I’ve found it’s getting harder with getting permits and fulfilling all these things the state governments want you to do. It’s become quite a

nightmare if you’re not great on computers. They seem to be making things harder and harder,” Bird explained.

“The regular testing hasn’t been too bad, so long as you can find somewhere to get it done. That can be a challenge in some areas. It hasn’t been too much of a problem when I run east to west and NSW has a few places you can get tested; but when getting into the Territory or north-west WA, it can be difficult to find a place that’s willing to do it for you.”

Some of the roads he travels along can also pose quite the challenge. “Going out to some of these outback mines, most have good access roads, but there are also a lot of them that are really bad. You can be doing 10-20km an hour, then you look down at the clock and five hours have gone and you’ve only travelled 100 kilometres.

“Most of the WA roads are beautiful and SA is not too bad, but they’ve deteriorated in NSW and Victoria, and they are shocking in Queensland and the Northern

Territory is bad too. WA is good but it seems the rest of the country’s roads are falling apart. Some of the roads are in a terrible state – so it’s pretty hard on the truck and not great on the driver either.”

Despite being a truckie for so many years, Bird still enjoys being out on the open road and being able to see the countryside along his travels.

“As long as I’m fit and healthy, I’ll probably keep on going for a little while longer.

They reckon if you don’t work, you don’t eat,” he laughed.

“I just enjoy the whole thing and making it all happen. Sometimes it’s a bit of a challenge, but it’s nice to overcome any problems and get there. The only thing I don’t enjoy is being under too much pressure so I just don’t go for those sorts of jobs. You need sufficient time to do the job,” Bird added.

“Because I’ve been around for a while, I know a lot of people on the road and have a lot of friends on the road, so I usually run into someone I know.”

This is the second International Acco owned by Bird. Photo was taken around the mid 1970s.

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16 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Fitting tribute to truckies who have lost their lives

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

EMOTIONS flowed as drivers who have lost their lives were honoured and remembered during the Lights on The Hill Memorial Convoy and Service earlier this month.

The annual event features a convoy that travels through Toowoomba and Brisbane, making its way to the Gatton Showgrounds.

Though Covid restrictions meant the convoy couldn’t take place in 2020, this year the event was back in full swing with 409 trucks taking part.

After missing out on the convoy last year, Juanita Johnston from the Lights On The Hill Trucking Memorial said, “Everybody really wanted it to go ahead, especially the drivers.

“Our crew was a bit worried about the Covid restrictions and everything. I think a lot of people thought it wouldn’t go ahead. All week, we were listening to what was happening with restrictions and, thankfully, it was still able to go ahead.”

Upon arriving at the Gatton Showgrounds, visitors were greeted to a fun-filled day with live music, kids’ rides, a truck show, a charity auction

and food and trade stalls.

The charity auction included various items, from tyres to a mountain bike, and managed to raise around $7500 that will go towards the Memorial Wall – with a portion of that to be used for landscaping upgrades over the next 12 months.

The Memorial Service took place on Sunday October 3, with 55 names added to the wall. For those unable to attend in person, the service was also live streamed on the event’s Facebook page.

“Border closures meant people from NSW and Victoria weren’t able to come, which was a shame, especially for those having someone’s name put on the wall – so we live streamed the service. Our girls who were in the convoy also did live streams from inside their trucks too for those who couldn’t make it,” said Johnston.

Johnston added that as the event is run entirely by volunteers, the team is always on the lookout for more people to get involved.

To express your interest in being a sponsor, or volunteer for next year’s event, please email lightsonthehill@live. com.au.

The Nolan’s Interstate Transport team pay tribute to staff and drivers who have passed away. Photos: Shutter Shock Photography

Over 400 trucks converge at the Gatton Showgrounds.

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Visitors were also treated to live music and entertainment.

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FEATURE 17

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

The convoy travelled through Toowoomba and Brisbane.

Nolan’s Transport unveils commemorative trailers

NOLAN’S Interstate Transport has unveiled a new commemorative B-double set paying tribute to those who have lost their lives in transport accidents.

Sponsored by Volvo Commercial Vehicles Australia (the wholly-owned retail arm of Volvo Group Australia), the new refrigerated vans acknowledge the Lights On The Hill Memorial in Gatton and the sacrifices made by drivers and their families while keeping the wheels of the Australian industry turning.

There were 55 names added to the Memorial Wall.

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Lights on the Hill event, participating every year and offering support in numerous ways. As the memorial has grown, so too has Nolans’ involvement.

“It’s important to be with the drivers and wives who have lost loved ones and friends in the industry,” said Flea (Adrian) Nolan, director Nolan’s Interstate Transport.

“To be involved is a particular passion of mine and it is great to see the event and the recognition it gets grow every year.”

[l-r] Sarena Nolan, Darren Nolan, Daphne Nolan, Flea Nolan and Sandy Nolan in front of the new B-double fridge van set commemorating the Lights on The Hill memorial.

A mural pays tribute to three lives lost.

Sydney Brisbane • Mackay • l Victoria na gio Re * Melbourne

The sponsorship by VCV Australia includes supporting the design and branding of the trailers, which in this case features a mural of the memorial wall in Lake Apex Park.

Before the trailers go to work behind a new Volvo FH16 hauling produce for Nolan’s, the commemorative trailers took part in The Lights on the Hill Memorial Convoy on Saturday, October 2.

As a pillar of the Gatton community for over half a century, the Nolan family is intrinsically linked with The

18 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Cameron’s camera capers

This Barooga-based truckie is juggling the best of both worlds; running his own business while indulging a flair for truck photography.

BY DAVID VILE READERS of Big Rigs will be familiar with the photographic work of owner-driver Kev Cameron who has been a regular contributor to the ‘Readers Rigs’ pages of the paper, along the way also gathering plenty of mileage on various Facebook pages, with his 2003 Western Star generally front and centre of his images.

With another grain harvest on the horizon, there will again be plenty of opportunity for Cameron to hone his craft as he works through northern New South Wales, so it was timely to have a chat with the 34-year-old recently and put Cameron in front of, rather than behind, the camera for a change.

Cameron’s path of a career in transport was determined from a young age, with father and uncles all driving trucks, with Cameron’s father Geoff a familiar sight running a Kenworth K200 throughout the Riverina. On leaving school he began working around his local area of Cobram-Barooga on the Victorian-NSW border, with a steady progression up to his current situation.

After getting his truck licence, and doing a stint in earthmoving operating an excavator, he hit the road, first locally and then doing market runs, to Melbourne and Sydney.

“Running market was a good opportunity, I had a brand-new truck and trailers and did that for a couple of years, then I landed a job with Rendevskis for two years on linehaul running to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and then the opportunity came up to buy a truck, it was something I had always wanted to do so why not, I thought I would have a crack at it,” he said.

WE ARE PRETTY LUCKY IN A SENSE SOME PLACES WE GO TO ARE PRETTY COOL, EVEN FOR HARVEST THE MACHINERY AND SOME OF THE GEAR THEY RUN I JUST ENJOY TAKING PICTURES OF. PEOPLE LIKE MY TRUCK PHOTOS AND I THINK A LOT OF NON-TRUCK PEOPLE SEEM TO LIKE THEM AS WELL.” KEV CAMERON

The truck in question was a Mack CH and three axle dog-tipper set which had a few troubles along the way and Cameron was on the hunt for a more versatile truck that could help build his business.

“The idea was to go into quarry work with the Mack but I picked up a few contacts via some mates and started carting a bit of gypsum with the three axle dog - I thought if I could upgrade to a truck that can do grain it would keep me working and that’s what happened,” he explained.

With the Western Star coming up for sale in Bathurst, he was soon on his way to check out the truck, which was complete with a quad dog trailer.

“This one popped up along with another one at Wagga at the same time so when I went and looked at them both, this was about $50,000 cheaper - was probably going to be a bit of a trial to see how things went so I went for the cheaper option and it was still a pretty good truck,” he explained.

Buying the truck complete with a quad-axle dog trailer the Western Star was soon put to work on grain harvest, with the remainder of the year taken up working on grain contracts south with fertiliser

This shot was taken on a farm near Corowa, NSW.

Cameron captured this beauty while working the harvest, in Barooga, NSW.

generally onboard for the return leg north.

Along the way Cameron has replaced the body on the back of the truck for a larger-capacity unit and up-sized the trailer to a tri-axle dog.

“They are Sloanebuilt out of Sydney, which I bought through the Ritchie Bros auctions. I was loading fertiliser across the road and checked them out and they have turned out to be a pretty good buy.

“I was going to upgrade to that set-up anyway. It came up at a reasonable price, all I had to do was send it to Melbourne to get the PBS signed off. Everything was pretty much good to go.”

For the work he does, he reckons the setup with a body truck and trailer is ideal in terms of being able to maximise his payload and its versatility as opposed to other truck and trailer combinations.

“A stag B-double is probably a better setup but in saying that this is a shorter overall combination. If you’re doing dairy farm work and

Kev Cameron with his trusty Western Star at his home base in Barooga.

that sort of thing you can get better into places with this - in terms of unloading I reckon these are miles better than a conventional B-double-I can load 42.5 tonne in Victoria.”

So, on to the photography which Cameron fits in around his work schedules and given the variety of places and landscapes he finds himself in as he travels around, has been one that many people have shared through both the pages of Big Rigs and online.

“You get up in the hills and there’s some pretty nice landscapes. I went up between Moree and Goondiwindi for the harvest season last year and I am heading back up there again this year,” he said.

“We are pretty lucky in a sense some places we go to are pretty cool, even for harvest the machinery and some of the gear they run I just enjoy taking pictures of. People like my truck photos and I think a lot of non-truck people seem to like them as well.”

Working varied hours, especially around sunrise and sunset have also allowed Cameron to take photos from an artistic perspective as trucks and machinery come to life at night or have the

morning sun and shadows helping set off and enhance the image.

Having just purchased a new drone, Cameron is also looking at taking to the skies for some different photographic perspectives of the harvest season this year.

With a lifetime spent around transport in one form of another, he has also documented his journey through the camera lens, and no doubt the picture gallery will continue to evolve.

Needless to say, there will be plenty of content finding its way onto the Big Rigs media platforms in the future also, and it doesn’t seem that Cameron will be having a change of career or dropping his photographic tendencies any time soon.

“I’ve been the same since I was five-years-old, always happy to talk trucks, and everywhere I go I take photos, it’s something I have always done and I enjoy the opportunity.”

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20 FEATURE

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

A trip down memory lane

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

ON the last weekend in September, heritage truck owners and enthusiasts gathered in the small outback Queensland town of Winton to celebrate trucking history.

Saturday September 25 and Sunday September 26 marked the 10th biennial Winton Truckies Reunion.

Held as part of the Winton Outback Festival, it was started by Billy Baskett and the late Alan ‘Buddo’ Grant. The duo were also among a group of locals behind the Winton

Diamantina Truck and Machinery Museum, which was officially established in 2004.

A retired truckie himself, 74-year-old Baskett drove trucks almost all his working life. He bought his first truck in 1966 – a Ford F-700.

“Back when I bought my first few trucks, I did tipper work, then later on I started carting cattle and logs, then started buying Macks and Whites.

I carted cattle a fair bit, then did general into Darwin too,” he said.

Now based in Toowoomba, where he has lived since

1975, Baskett had previously lived in various parts of Queensland, including Winton which has always held a special place in his heart.

“Not only do I like the place and the people but one of the other reasons why I’ve continued to support Winton is that my son is also the Mayor of Winton, so there’s family ties there too.”

Baskett was inspired to help set up a museum in Winton after visiting the National Road Transport Hall of Fame in Alice Springs. “I lived in western Queensland

The Shaw family sponsors the Roy Shaw Memorial Truck Pull.

Among the oldest trucks on show was this International, brought in by Rob McIntyre. It originally belonged to his grandfather.

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and drove trucks there. After visiting the museum in Alice Springs, I said to Buddo that we should have a go at setting up a museum here,” he said.

“Winton is arguably one of first places that started running road trains back in the 1940s. There’s a road train on display that’s a 1949 Leyland Hippo complete with trailers and crates. The gentleman that owns it came down and painted all the boards and drove it in the parade.”

Running along Winton’s main road, Elderslie Street, on the Saturday, the grand parade is a major highlight of the event – as is the Roy Shaw Memorial Truck Pull, and the Truckie’s Breakfast, which is takes place the following morning, with awards also handed out.

“The procession goes south to start and then comes back for a second run. There are a lot of people because it’s at the end of the Winton Outback

Festival which has been going since 1972,” said Baskett.

“The town is completely chockers and all the caravan parks are full, with a lot of grey nomads and travellers, and younger people too – it attracts people of all ages. The week isn’t just about trucks, but that’s part of it.”

While many of the trucks on show have been lovingly restored, others definitely show their age. “We have many older vehicles on dis-

FEATURE 21

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

An impressive vintage tractor makes its way through Winton for the grand parade.

play that are in disrepair and are lined up down the back.

They won’t be restored but are worthwhile keeping because of their heritage. You’d be surprised how much interest they receive from the crowd,” revealed Baskett.

“Some date as far back as the 1920s. A man named Rob McIntyre brought one of his grandfather’s trucks there – an International. He had six such vehicles in Mckinlay, which is not far from Winton.

Business was going really well for him but he went broke in the Great Depression in the 1930s. This was the first time he’s ever been there with the truck.”

Among the winners of the Truckies Show & Shine were: • Furthest Travelled Truckie – Darryl Brown • Most Consistent Truckie – John Price, Roma

THE PROCESSION GOES SOUTH TO START AND THEN COMES BACK FOR A SECOND RUN. THERE ARE A LOT OF PEOPLE BECAUSE IT’S AT THE END OF THE WINTON OUTBACK FESTIVAL WHICH HAS BEEN GOING SINCE 1972.”

BILLY BASKETT

• O ldest Truckie – Nev Noski, Blackall • Truckies Backing Competition: Ben Durkin, Toowoomba (first place); Matt Schultz, Winton (second place); and Eric Ballard Winton (third place) In the Show and Shine competition, Best Cab Over went to Shaws Transport’s

Large crowds filled up Elderslie Street in Winton for the grand parade and more.

Atkinson eight-wheeler; Best Bonnet was awarded to Curley Cattle Transport’s Kenworth; Best Restored Vintage Truck went to Ballard Transport for its yellow International; Rob Morton from Longreach won the Best Art Paint & Signwriting category for his fully restored 1988 Mack Superliner; and Best Working Truck went to Trevor Capps’ 2003 Western Star.

Jon Kelly of Megatruckers fame also impressed with his 1988 Mack Superliner, which he restored just in time for the show. “It was a mad rush to get the truck ready for Winton. The restoration took three months, but we only had nine days after we picked it up from the paint shop to put it all back together,” Kelly said.

The Truck Pull was a show of might.

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22 READER RIGS

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Arth Markis sent in this awesome pic of two Western Stars as the sun peeked its way through the dark storm clouds.

Livestock truckie Zeb Cremers spots a dingo at Nullarbor Roadhouse.

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!

Darren Curtain and this 2016 Western Star play in the snow in Oatlands, Tassie.

Mark Nelson captured this SEQ Transport set-up beautifully, as it stopped on the Nullarbor.

Ben Talbot and this Kenworth get loaded up with containers in this magnificent shot.

Jacob Elliott and this Volvo Globetrotter were loaded up with lucerne at Eugowra, NSW, bound for Haigslea, Queensland.

Russell Oppermann snapped this shot on the Tablelands Highway in NT as he headed for McArthur River Mine.

Robbie Mohamad and this Kenworth triple set-up load nitrate in Dampier, WA.

READER RIGS 23

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Robert Roveglia snapped a shot of this green machine while stopped in Hughenden, Queensland.

Nicholas Dolan does some star gazing with this Blenners’ Kenworth at the Newell Highway in Tooraweenah, NSW.

Vicki N Roy shared a shot of their immaculate 1984 Ford Louisville, all spruced up for the recent Mackay Konvoy for Kids.

Two triples load up at Wee Waa, NSW. Thanks for sharing Tom Bromley.

Luke Sutherland snapped this beauty as he travelled between Wubin, WA and Winton, Queensland.

Steve Grant shared this shot of Hardy’s Haulage T409 SAR loading up with grain for the brewery in Brisbane.

Tim Stringer shared a great night-time shot of this J.R Stephens 100-year Mack Superliner, unloading fertiliser between Talwood and Mungindi.

Tyson Staben transports wood logs to the Riverland region in SA.

Paul Freeth sent in this great shot, with Ayers Rock making for a stunning backdrop.

A glorious sunset captured north of Rockhampton by Aaron Sonter.

24 DRIVER PROFILES

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckin’ In The Tropics William Schwebel TRUCKING enthusiast William Schwebel and his father Neil (a former army officer) were delighted to find some old trucks, including some from World War II, during a week-long visit to

the Torres Strait region.

During World War II, the Japanese conducted eight bombing raids on Horn Island in the Torres Strait. The area was known as Australia’s northern outpost.

Stationed on Horn Island were American servicemen and members of the Australian Light Infantry Brigade.

When the war ended in 1945, the Americans left behind lots of machinery in-

with Alf Wilson

cluding some trucks.

Neil, 59, and William, 20, stayed on Horn Island in late September and tracked down some of the old trucks which are now wrecks.

“Amongst them was an

William Schwebel near the old WWII truck wreck on Horn Island in the Torres Strait.

old truck which is beside the main road on Horn Island not far from where the airstrip is located,” said William.

There are airstrips on numerous small islands in the Torres Strait however none on Thursday Island which is the business centre of the Torres Strait, as it is too hilly to have an airstrip.

Passengers who land by plane on Horn catch a bus and link up with a ferry for a 15 minute cruise to Thursday Island.

William did some research and found that in March 1942 Horn Island Airfield had its first Japanese air raid.

Between March 1942 to June 1943, eight bombing raids were made on Horn Island Airfield, which became the only military installation in Queensland to be regularly targeted by the Japanese.

One soldier was killed during the third air raid on April 30, 1942.

The strategic importance of Horn Island was emphasised in January 1942 when the Japanese captured Rabaul and made it their main South West Pacific base.

The father and son, who live in Townsville, stayed on Horn Island with Neil’s sister Carrolyn Wells who is a teacher at Tagai College on Thursday Island.

Neil enjoyed checking out some of the trucks and vehicle wrecks, most of which date back to World War II. He also saw the remains of an old Thunderbolt air-

Gerry Netter

Scott Davison

WHEN Big Rigs saw driver Gerry Netter recently, he was on the lookout for accommodation.

“I have rented a room at a Townsville Hotel for the past five years and now it has been sold and there won’t be long-term accommodation anymore,” he said.

A former soldier, Netter has a Kia 1.2 tonne light truck which he purchased two years ago to become an owner operator.

SCOTT Davison, 49, had just been to a Townsville clinic for his first Covid-19 vaccination when Big Rigs saw him parked up for a 24-hour fatigue break.

“It was some hours ago and I haven’t had any side affects,” Davison said.

He was driving a Freightliner for Mystgold Transport and mainly carries groceries to Woolworths supermarkets.

“I transport produce as far away as Mount Isa out west, Cairns to the north and south to Sarina. But I can get anywhere in Australia,” he said.

With Davison was his trusty pet dog Belle which he described

“I do lots of odd jobs around town including pick-ups,” he said.

To add to his accommodation concern, Netter said the truck had broken down which made it more difficult to search for a new room.

Netter drove trucks for a decade but switched to concreting until he bought the Kia. ”I used to drive an International tipper and also for

another company,” he said.

Sydney born Netter arrived in Townsville back in 1978 when he joined the army and he has been there ever since.

Netter said the Covid pandemic has resulted in work slowing down, so he’s always on the lookout for jobs.

The good news is that Netter managed to find accommodation and his truck was repaired.

as “a great companion”.

Davison likes stopping at the BP Cluden and Bohle Puma because they cater well for truckies.

Born at Wollongong, NSW, Davison reckons there are enough rest areas – with one qualification.

“The ones that we use generally need more shaded areas,” he said.

When he gets time off, Davison enjoys a cold beer on a hot day and there are plenty of those in the tropics.

“I also restore old vehicles including a panel van and an Ford F150 and watch cricket and football,” he said.

craft which was partly overgrown.

“It took a while to walk into the bush on Horn Island but it was worth it to see real history. The wrecks and guns were amazing and I found them a real tourist attraction.

It is a pity more Australians don’t know about the history of Horn Island and the part they played in WWII,” Neil said.

William agreed. “I found them interesting especially the gun emplacements, with the 3.7 anti aircraft guns on Horn which have been beautifully restored,” he said.

They also enjoyed the Torres Strait Heritage Museum on Horn Island and the expert commentary from Vanessa Seekee OAM. Another highlight of the trip was a tour of the Green Hill Forts Complex on Thursday Island and a visit to the Kazu Pearl Farm on Friday Island.

“That was fantastic and we went over on a Friday on the school boat and watched a demonstration on seeding pearls. The food on Friday Island was absolutely amazing – a seven-course Japanese meal,” he said.

Enthusiastic about his trip to the Torres Strait, William said he would be spreading the message during coming months.

“I will be telling as many as possible to visit the Torres Strait when they can in the future. It is a paradise full of history and we loved the old trucks.”

Davison is a parochial Australian Cricket Team supporter and likes the Essendon Bombers in the AFL and the Sydney Bulldogs in the rival NRL. Even though the Bulldogs finished with the wooden spoon this season in the 16-club NRL, he is enthusiastic for the future.

The Bulldogs have signed numerous big names for 2022 and Essendon finished eighth in the AFL and played finals football.

In conclusion, Davison said he loved the job and intends on having the second Covid jab.

“It is a very good life I have at the moment,” he said.

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26 INSURANCE COLUMN

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

It wasn’t my fault I SPY ON THE ROAD ISPY@BIGRIGS.COM.AU

INSURANCE GURU MARK BROWN

Manager, TBI Insurance Services

I would love a dollar for every time we hear these old excuses: ‘I told them the brakes were dodgy’ or ‘they tried to beat me and cut in front of me when their lane was ending’ or ‘they tried to bag me up on the inside on a roundabout’.

These are just three of the very common excuses that we hear whenEXPERT preparing a TELEMATICS claim for our clients SHANNON KYLE after an Safety solutions specialist, accident.

The sadTeletrac fact isNavman that these excuses are almost always used for accidents that are mostly preventable.

Professional drivers could probably stop reading any further as they would most likely already know how to prevent the sorts of accidents where these types of excuses are given.

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT JACQUELENE BROTHERTON Chair of Transport Women Australia

media sites. Two things come to mind with this scenario.

Firstly, the lack of knowledge of road rules. And, as a professional driver it is your (the driver) responsibility to know TRUCKER the THE roadOZ rules for each state MIKE WILLIAMS or territory that you drive in. contributors@bigrigs.com.au There are basically two types of lane merging rules.

The first one is the commonly known ‘give way’. If you’re travelling in the lane that is ending and there are lane markings that continue to the end of the lane, then the vehicle in the lane that is ending must give way when merging into the line of traffic.

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

The second one is known as a ‘zipper merge’. If there are no lane markings at the end of the merging lane, then it is whichever vehicle is in front, as the lane that is ending has TWU NEWS the right of way.

A ridiculous RICHARD road rule, and as aOLSEN professionTWU NSW State Secretary al driver there is only one way to deal with it, and that is to practice some patience and allow room for the nongs whom are always going to try it on to get in front of your truck at all costs.

Excuse 3: They tried to bag me up at the roundabout The roundabout may be good for traffic flow but it’s also a

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

very confusing obstacle for many a motorist. The most common form of incident involving trucks on roundabouts seems to be a small vehicle trying to squeeze beLEGAL tween a truck andEAGLE trailer and ROWAN the roundabout on KING the inside.

Lawyer the RK Law We alwaysPrincipal hear from truck driver that ‘it’s not my fault, they should not be trying to overtake on a roundabout!’

True that, but that would require the use of common sense and as we all know, common sense is something a lot of car drivers do not possess.

The best practice to prevent this from happening is to take control of the lanes when ap-

proaching a roundabout, i.e.; straddle the lanes to prevent any smaller vehicles from passing you. If you have not taken control of the lanes before the roundabout, then you would have allowed a small vehicle an opportunity to try and pass you on the roundabout. Given this, could you still say it’s not your fault?

Many accidents are preventable if we practice some road craft, common-sense and patience; coupled with good knowledge of each state’s road rules. Next time, before you say ‘it wasn’t my fault’, ask yourself if you’ve applied all of the above.

Important: All answers and information contained within this article should be considered as General Advice Only. This advice should only be considered as General in Nature and its intent is only to prompt the readers to investigate their own individual insurances. It has been prepared without taking into account the readers own individual objectives, financial situation or needs.

Because of that, before acting on the above advice, the client or any persons should consider its appropriateness (having regard to their objectives, needs and financial situation) and seek further independent advice from their own financial advisor.

LOBBYIST STEVE SHEARER

SA Road Transport Association Executive Director

Excuse 1: Dodgy brakes If a driver uses this as the reason for an accident, it may suggest the failure of management to ensure all the company’s vehicles are in a roadworthy condition. However if an accident has resulted from poor (or lack of ) maintenance after the maintenance issue has been reported by the driver, then the driver should also take responsibility, simply because they have knowingly driven the vehicle in an unsafe, un-roadworthy condition. Of course maintenance is always the responsibility of management, however the accident would not have occurred if the driver had not driven the vehicle before the brakes had been brought up to a roadworthy standard.

Excuse 2: They cut in front of me as their lane ended This is a very common accident, which seems to be a favourite on the dashcam social

Excuses used after an accident, such as ‘dodgy brakes’, often occur when that accident was actually preventable. Photo: NHVR/Facebook

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COLUMN 27

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Enforceable undertakings: a prosecution alternative LEGAL EAGLE BELINDA HUGHES NHVR Director Prosecutions

AS a modern regulator, we use a risk-based model to tackle the greatest safety risks on our roads.

To do this, we use tailored regulatory activities and responses that are appropriate and proportionate to the nature of the safety risk and behaviour of industry and supply chain participant.

Our focus is to deter serious and consistent offenders who put other’s lives at risk by seeking strong sentences, but also try to change the behaviours that breed a culture of offending and risk the overall safety of the heavy vehicle industry.

Enforceable undertakings (EUs) are one way the NHVR can encourage and monitor safer behaviours in an individual or a company and improve safety for all road users.

So, what is an EU? An EU is a legal agreement between a defendant charged under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) and the NHVR. There is specific criteria that is considered in the EU process, which could include a company implementing measures such as education, training, processes, policies, technology or systems that demonstrate tangible improvements to the safety of the company’s operations.

This agreement is recorded, legally enforceable and is published on the NHVR’s website.

What happens if the NHVR accepts the EU? If the NHVR accepts the EU, the court matter is withdrawn, and no court penalty is pursued.

EUs last for 12 months and are actively monitored by the NHVR. The company must submit evidence to show the agreed activities have been completed, to avoid further legal action.

If the defendant does not comply with their EU, they will be prosecuted for breaching the agreement.

Why would the NHVR accept an EU instead of a prosecution?

EUs are designed to tackle the root of the issue that caused the offence to occur in the first place.

Immediate corrective action can be taken by the company, and robust safety systems and training can be established to protect them-

selves, and others, from safety risks long term.

It also allows a company to implement strategies and procedures that will protect them in future, instead of receiving a fine, which may not lead to improved operations.

You will see that the NHVR has already entered into more EUs over the last few months than in the previous year, be-

cause in most cases, a company or person spending money on safety instead of a fine, means a better safety outcome for everyone.

An example?

A recent example of the benefits of an EU is best demonstrated by the matter of a civil construction and infrastructure company Eifers Pty Ltd.

EUs are designed to tackle the root of the issue that caused the offence to occur in the first place.

Eifers Pty Ltd was never charged with any offences, but their driver was. Eifers stepped in and proposed to complete an EU so the employed driver wouldn’t face a conviction and fines for mass limit and load restraint breaches.

Eifers has pledged to complete a series of safety, risk and policy activities valued at $44,000 and as a result the NHVR withdrew all charges against the driver. The activities include completing mass and load restraint training, a new policies and procedure manual, certification of safety management systems including quality management, occupational health and safety, and environmental performance, plus production of a heavy vehicle safety video.

It’s encouraging to see a company put their hand up to be accountable for their role in ensuring safe operations on and off the road.

I’m pleased to say every company has either successfully completed or are progressing well with their EUs. For more information visit www.nhvr.gov.au/law-policies/ enforceable-undertakings.

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FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Exclusive hotel deals for you

WITH NSW and Victoria set to begin opening up, now is the time to lock in your accommodation.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, look no further than the trucking indus-

try’s hotel group of choice, Nightcap Hotels – which has a very special offer on the table for Big Rigs readers.

Nightcap Hotels has over 65 locations across Australia

and can accommodate truck parking at the majority of its locations. It also offers 24-hour check in, and everything else you need when you’re on the road in search of a quality meal and a comfortable room.

Location and affordability are key when it comes to choosing accommodation, along with access to onsite dining, parking and speedy WIFI. Sitting adjacent to pubs, you’ll never have a reason to leave with a modern Australian meal in the bistro, cold draught beer, and front bar entertainment right at your fingertips.

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When you’re on the hunt for comfortable, clean and contemporary accommodation that doesn’t charge top dollar, Nightcap Hotels has you covered.

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Terms and conditions: Subject to availability, some block-out dates apply. Travel/book: April 1 until December 24, 2021. To secure the special offer, the promotional code TRUCKRATES must be used.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Introducing the ultimate ‘Cockpit Shield’

The Snake Skin Cockpit Shield protects vehicle interiors against extreme heat and harmful UV.

The range is available in four fragrances.

AUTOKLENE has introduced its new-to-market Snake Skin Vehicle ‘Cockpit Shield’ range, encased in vibrant packaging and a choice of fragrances to suit all tastes.

So what are its primary benefits?

The Snake Skin Cockpit Shield protects vehicle interiors against extreme heat and

To celebrate the launch of Snake Skin, receive a free corresponding Snake Skin air freshener with each can purchased.

Select from the range of four awesome fragrances: • Black Mamba – Ice fragrance • Taipan – Watermelon fragrance •V enom – Vanilla fragrance • Copperhead – New car

harmful UV, helping to prevent cracking and discolouration. It also kills bacteria on contact.

Formulated and manufactured in Australia, this ultimate protector dramatically improves the look and feel of vinyl, plastic, rubber and leather.

The 300g aerosol also makes for simple cleaning of

hard-to-reach areas like inside air vents, door pockets and switchgear.

Interior surfaces are left with a non-greasy, anti-static and anti-bacterial shield, perfect for these Covid times.

Snake Skin restores that brand new appearance that looks great, smells amazing and repels dirt and dust.

fragrance And as you’d expect, application is a piece of cake too. A simple shake of the can, then evenly spray over the area you’re wating to be protect.

Wipe over evenly with a clean dry microfibre cloth.

For more information on Snake Skin, please visit the website at snakeskin.com.au.

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Opening a world of opportunities

FOR owner operator Cameron Shaw, heavy haulage transport marketplace Loadshift has helped him to grow and diversify his business.

From his base in Quirindi, NSW, Shaw travels Austra-

lia-wide behind the wheel of his Iveco 7200 Powerstar for his business Castlemountain Contracting.

“I don’t have any set routes.

I go wherever the customers need me to go. Next week,

for example, I’ll be heading to Perth,” he said.

Aged 29, Shaw began driving trucks when he was 21, but that wasn’t until after he completed his mechanic apprenticeship and had a go in

Loadshift has helped Cameron Shaw to grow his network and his business.

spare parts and warehousing.

“My background led me to trucking,” he said. “Trucks have always been around me throughout my life. My grandfather was a beekeeper so I was always going out with him in the truck doing honey. I loved the sound and thrill of going down the road – so he sort of drew me to it.”

It was around 2016 that Shaw decided to go it alone and purchase his own truck. “I’ve been going strong ever since,” he said.

When he bought the truck from a family friend, Loadshift was recommended to him so he decided to give it a go. “And it just clicked. It can be very hard to find interstate jobs when you don’t have the contacts, so Loadshift puts you in touch with freight forwarders and customers,” said Shaw.

“About 80 per cent of my work has come through Loadshift. There are many customers I found through Loadshift and then I’ve just kept doing work for them.

“Loadshift allows me to plan my work ahead of time.

I’ve recently started planning a month ahead, so I can price

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Hay makes up about a third of Shaw’s work during harvest season.

customers knowing that I’ll be able to find something to come home with. It means you can branch out and grow your network. It provides so much opportunity.

“Before I started using Loadshift, I had no leads to any jobs other than local work, so I couldn’t plan where I was going weeks ahead, as I’m doing now.”

During harvest season, hay makes up about a third of Shaw’s work. “At harvest time I stick purely to hay for a good four months of the year, but Loadshift enables me to find loads when I’m going on long distance trips, so it helps me keep prices down for the customer.”

Along with hay, Shaw transports a lot of machinery and portable buildings. Over time, he’s expanded his trailer fleet to

cater to a wider variety of tasks.

Along with the Powerstar, he has a smaller Isuzu NKR 200; along with a 45ft drop deck, two A trailers (one is 24ft and the other is 28ft), a 25ft flat top, a 40ft skel and a 40ft flat top single axle trailer. “So I can cater to a lot of customer needs,” he said.

For Shaw, Loadshift provides certainty and variety. “If I’m sitting in Tamworth and there’s someone needing something delivered to where I’m going, then it makes it more sustainable all around.

“Loadshift is very simple. If everyone knew everyone, you’d have work all the time, but if there’s no communication, you don’t know what’s out there.

That’s where Loadshift comes in – and the app and the website are so easy to use too,” he said.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

There has never been a better time to upgrade

Current government tax incentives have made it a great time for many transport operators to upgrade.

IF your business is eligible for the current government tax incentives, there has never been a better time to upgrade.

A positive cash flow within

your transport business is important to maintain healthy growth. This can be rather tricky because you need to purchase large essential assets

and equipment for your business.

However, buying a new or used truck has never been less taxing with the Federal Gov-

ernment’s Economic Stimulus Packages.

The temporary full expensing plan will apply to new depreciable assets and

the cost of improvements to existing eligible assets, allowing businesses to claim an immediate deduction of the full value of all new, eligible, depreciable assets of any value that are first used or installed before June 30, 2023.

The scheme is essentially a greatly expanded accelerated depreciation program that allows businesses to claim a tax deduction for the full value of the purchase after its use, rather than claim depreciation amounts over several years.

Morris Finance have outlined this example to illustrate just how useful the scheme can be to transport operators: Greg owns a transport company, Greg’s Transport Pty Ltd, which has an aggregated annual turnover of $20 million for the 2021-22 income year.

Greg’s Transport Pty Ltd purchases a second-hand Kenworth prime mover for $150,000 exclusive of GST on 1 July 2021.

Under temporary full expensing, Greg’s Transport Pty Ltd will be able to claim a deduction of $150,000 for the

full cost of the Prime Mover in 2021–22.

Paying less tax will improve the company’s cash flow and help Greg reinvest and grow his business.

Being able to write-off assets purchased is all well and good, but if you don’t have access to the funds to purchase them, then the scheme won’t be of much use to your business.

Morris Finance are one of Australia’s leading national finance companies, providing asset finance, investment, leasing and insurance services to ABN Holders; Registered Companies; Individuals and Sole Traders.

Australian owned and with over 23 years industry experience the company has a proven track record in asset and equipment finance comprising of a passionate team of experienced professionals.

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Whether you’re a solo owner-operator, SME or a large fleet operator, we will source you the best finance deal, tailored to suit your individual business needs. If you’re looking to purchase your next truck, trailer, equipment, or simply looking to generate cash flow through assets you currently own, Morris Finance will find a solution to meet your needs.

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FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

HXL7 extended service life a winner

STARTED in 2005 as a onetruck operation, Eastwell Bulk Haulage has grown to a fleet of 37 trucks and over 140 trailers and dollies, servicing the eastern seaboard.

Based in Redbank, Queensland, it specialises in bulk transport, with just

over half of the fleet dedicated to transporting grain and cotton seed, predominantly as AB-triples that run across Queensland, NSW, north-western Victoria and South Australia. The remainder of its work is wide and varied, including transporting

containers to and from NSW, and B-double work between Brisbane and Sydney.

The business was started by husband and wife Mark and Robyn Eastwell, and has seen phenomenal growth over the past decade.

Macks and Kenworths

Eastwell Bulk Haulage has had the HXL7 Extended Life Wheel End package fitted to all new trailers purchased since 2016.

BRING

make up the vast majority of the prime mover fleet, while Moore Trailers is the trailer brand of choice, all running on Hendrickson suspension.

Mark says that Hendrickson’s INTRAAX suspension has proved to be a winner, helping the business keep its service and maintenance costs down.

“I’ve been using Hendrickson since I bought my first set of Moore trailers. They put us onto Hendrickson and said they were the way to go.

I had tried some other brands on some of the trailers we had bought second hand, but I’ve always preferred to stick with Hendrickson after seeing the benefit of their long service life and low maintenance,” he said.

Since 2016, the HXL7 Extended Life Wheel End package has been fitted to all trailers that were purchased new.

“We have a couple of trailers with competitor axle and suspension systems under them and we have to service them every 500,000km.

With the older Hendrickson HXL5, we were servicing every 800,000km. But now, with the HXL7, we’re getting up to 1.2

The HXL7 Extended Life Wheel Bearing package.

million kilometres. We do all of our scheduled maintenance and, touch wood, we haven’t had one fail on the HXL7.

The first trailers we purchased with this model of suspension have passed the 1.2 million km mark and they still had the original brakes on them too, which were still well within specification,” Mark explained.

“So it’s a massive difference, the HXL7 keeps the maintenance costs down. We just don’t have any faults – and our triples aren’t running up and down a bitumen highway all the time, they are doing really hard work.

“The big thing we look at is long service life and low maintenance costs – the less downtime, the better. Some of the cheaper competitor suspension systems have been through the workshops three times for

bearing repacks compared to once with these ones.”

Along with the reliability and durability, Mark adds that service and support from Hendrickson is second to none too.

“We know if we need support or anything, it’s readily available. Hendrickson has a great service and parts network Australia-wide,” he said.

Now, looking ahead, there’s another 44 trailers and dollies

by Moore Trailers set to join the fleet. The first of these were delivered at the end of September and will continue to roll out up to April 2022. And of course, they’ll all feature Hendrickson’s trusty INTRAAX suspension with HXL7 Extended Life Wheel-End System and the TIREMAAX Pro tyre inflation system which maintains air pressure in the tyres for increased tyre life.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

AA Diesel Truck Bodies celebrates over 20 years

AA Diesel Truck Bodies was founded by Arnel and Alija Siskovic.

MELBOURNE-BASED truck body builders, AA Diesel Truck Bodies, has reached a huge milestone, celebrating over 20 years of truck body production.

Founders Alija and Arnel Siskovic have built their business from the ground up, delivering superior quality custom truck bodies to a wide range of businesses across Australia since the business began in 1999.

From humble beginnings working out of a small workshop based at Doveton in south-east Melbourne, the business has steadily grown to become one of the most respected names in the truck body industry. The business has seen this growth reflected in its figures, achieving a record year of production in 2020, fabricating over 250 truck bodies.

Arnel and Alija would be

the first to say that it’s been a long journey from where the business started to where it is today. Being a family business, a lot of long hours have gone into ensuring that AA Diesel Truck Bodies would become one of the biggest truck body building businesses in Victoria.

“We started the business on a much smaller scale in a 300 square metre factory. We’ve now upgraded into a 2000

We’ve seen the next big thing a thousand times.

It’s never too big.

We’ve been in the industry long enough to understand that change is inevitable. It’s why we identify and develop services so our Commercial and Heavy Diesel Members have the strength to overcome today’s challenges, as well as tomorrow’s.

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square metre purpose-built factory with the addition of an in-house spray booth,” said Arnel.

“Over the years, we’ve equipped our workshop with state-of-the-art machinery and technology, allowing us to complete as much work inhouse as possible with our experienced truck technicians.”

The team working at AA Diesel Truck Bodies has also grown with a full team of trained technicians now working in the factory. The diverse team has allowed the business to efficiently design and fabricate an increasing number of premium quality truck bodies to suit particular specifications and requirements.

AA Diesel Truck Bodies is known for its superior quality materials, providing long-term durability in the harsh Australian environment. It is one of the few truck body manufacturers in Melbourne that has been selected by SSAB to be part of the Hardox In My Body program. Each truck body is made from genuine Hardox Wear Plate steel, delivering unsurpassed wear resistance and impact strength.

The business has built up a loyal customer base both within Victoria and interstate. Arnel and Alija always ensure that their customers receive an exceptional customer service experience with excellent after sales service and customer care.

The business works closely with clients to design and build premium quality truck bodies to suit exact specifications and requirements, ensuring that the final product con-

tinues to meet business needs and lasts long into the future.

“We work closely with our clients at every step of the process, giving them full control and peace of mind at all times,” said Arnel.

“Customers like that we can help them make decisions and know that those decisions come from a wealth of experience.”

To learn more about AA Diesel Truck Bodies, please visit aadieseltruckbodies.com.au.

2020 was a record year of production for the business, with 250 truck bodies produced.

RT ERTON

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

34 COLUMN contributors@bigrigs.com.au

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

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Financial uncertainty in the transport industry EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NEWS

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

LET me state the obvious. As I recently reminded the NSW Government at the Parliamentary Road Tolling Regimes Inquiry, toll road costs are an enormous issue across the road transport industry.

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

It doesn’t matter if you’re an owner-driver trying to run a small business, or a massive multinational company like Toll Group, it’s clear that toll costs are now so out of control that the road transport industry is beginning to boycott them altogether.

The TWU tabled proof to the Parliamentary Inquiry that Sydney’s toll roads have reached crisis point: a toolbox briefing put out by Toll on

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

May 21. Under the heading of “Toll/E-Tag Roads Use Update”, it outlined that toll roads were only to be used when authorised and also stated: “In most cases, the cost of the toll LEGAL EAGLE roads outweighs ROWAN KING any benefit we receiveLawyer from using them”.

Principal RK Law Seven toll roads operated

by Transurban Linkt have increased their cost of use from Friday, October 1.

These increases mean that the toll on the forced use NorthConnex, which has not been open for 12 months, has already gone up by more than $1 per vehicle. The cost is now over $50 to use the road both ways.

Toll roads in their current form create financial uncertainty for the transport industry. The transparency of the deals between Transurban and the NSW Government is non-existent.

Toll relief is needed, caps on costs would provide certainty, a conversation needs to be had. Decent rest areas also need to be provided on Toll Roads.

Consultation should be with transport worker representatives, like the TWU, so

we can work together to ensure that there is relief provided to the people that use these toll roads and provide certainty in relation to costs into the future.

The inquiry has been told that it is incumbent on the government of the day to consult with the TWU on behalf of our thousands of mem-

bers including owner-drivers.

The NSW Government must properly understand the impact that toll road decisions have on working families and small business owners.

Financial uncertainty is not just in the hands of Transurban, the TWU is taking a stand to ensure respect for drivers that are already employed by

TWU members rally in protest of toll charges at a gathering in Sydney late last year.

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companies like StarTrack, Toll, Global Express, Linfox, BevChain, FedEx. These companies are refusing to ensure jobs are secure for workers already employed, they are refusing to rule out outsourcing of the jobs workers already do. The financial impact on family futures is dangerous.

Negotiations have been ongoing, and our strong actions have secured some key wins but with several important claims still outstanding, I encourage every member to prepare to take further necessary action should rank-and-file negotiating committees decide it is necessary to secure our jobs, pay and conditions.

COLUMN 35

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Wharf carriers overlooked again in port supply chain study VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

RECENTLY, the Port of Melbourne (PoM) launched its Container Logistics Supply Chain Study (CLCS), mapping out container movements to and from the port.

There is certainly much detail, data and commentary in the report, much of which is irrefutable. However, the Victorian Transport Association is worried by what the report did not say.

It was very encouraging to see the growth of Twenty Foot Unit (TEU) containers through the port over the last ten years from 2009-2019.

A 40 per cent increase to three million TEU through the port with 94 per cent of imports destined to Melbourne metro (37 per cent west/27 per cent southeast/16 per cent north) is also welcome

news. Also, there is a growth in the implementation of larger heavy vehicles with Super B and A Doubles making up to 40 per cent of the port related transport fleet in groundbased supply chain.

However, disappointingly the road-based supply chain has again been placed at the bottom of the process with many issues overlooked and not discussed.

Firstly, vehicle utilisation through the stevedores is poor.

With a 50 per cent or less utilisation factor there are added trips with containers being made within the port precinct and related areas. The barriers to more balanced loading sit with the stevedores and the shipping companies, and not the road transport operators.

While the quayside activities operate 24/7, the landbased infrastructure does not.

Under the current systems and parameters, it is almost impossible to improve utilisation percentages of the port by road operators.

Secondly, opening times do not match PoM activities.

Empty container parks are usually only open during a

ten-hour day Monday to Friday, with customers usually cutting off dispatch and receival by 3.00pm Monday to Friday.

The Port, however, is open and counting time 24/7.

While the Port requires all operators to use the three-day collection window and at call receival process from the stevedores and shipping companies, the ability to match the

processes in the most efficient way is quickly overlooked.

Again, the road carrier takes up the slack and makes sure that requirements are met at a higher cost.

Thirdly, staging of containers in carriers’ yards has now become standard process. The operational figures are closer to 95 per cent of TEU and are staged through at least one transport depot, if not more, after pick-

up and before delivery into the stevedore. This process, which can see containers lifted UP to 10 times through the land side process, contributes to a downturn in productivity, an increase in cost and greater exposure to community amenity concerns.

The last issue is the poor rail utilisation statistics. A drop in freight moved by rail volumes from 12 per cent to 7 per cent in 10 years is an indictment on

The wharf carrier sector of the port supply chain has carried the capital cost of increased volumes through the port.

all of the rhetoric regarding reduced cost, greater efficiency and community concerns. Rail is a major mover of freight but the intermodal system has not developed as the volumes increased.

A prime example of this is the fact that VICT have been at Webb Dock for nearly 10 years and the prospect of a rail connection to service this huge facility is still 10-20 years away.

The above issues may seem focused and concentrated but they are indicators of where the port supply chain is failing.

It is one thing to improve the port and attract greater numbers of ships but the increase in volumes still need to get to and from warehouses and customers in the most efficient manner.

The wharf carrier sector of the port supply chain has carried the capital cost of increased volumes through the port.

Apart from the inclusion of VICT and the introduction of Containerchain, there have been no infrastructure or process improvements over the past 10 years.

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36 COLUMN

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Mateship is why I love this amazing industry so much

COST CUTTER CHET CLINE AIR CTI founder/owner

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE

dustry did come through as they are essential workers and were still going to and from work so were able to do coffee drop-offs.

Also, as I am allowed to EDITOR have bubble buddy, my JAMESaGRAHAM Transport Women Australia james.graham@bigrigs.com.au Limited vice-chair was able to help move the TWAL office into the new house.

Plus, a shout out to people who have been friends for years like Rod Pilon of Rod Pilon Transport at Dubbo who took some of my belongings back home and NEWS Sandhu Pannu TransTWU port of Truganina who are RICHARD OLSEN holding others TWU NSW State Secretary in storage.

This is why I love this industry so much; your mates are there for you, especially for me as my family are so far away. I want to get rid of the closed borders, I have been unable to get home to see my older mum and siblings and I am over it!

During the move also I had to give some attention to Transport Women Australia Limited, we had to make the unhappy decision to postpone the Driving the Difference conference until

June 3-5, 2022.

We also released the 2021 Driving the Difference scholarships with our sponsor – Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific. We have TASSIE TRUCKIN’ a lot of interest so far and JON WALLIS encourage interested parties contributors@bigrigs.com.au to get their applications in early. We hope to get a good cross section of the industry as in previous years.

We launched the new Instagram page with a photo competition and will shortly be launching a YouTube channel. The new website will beEAGLE ready for launch beLEGAL fore the end of the year, we ROWAN KING are extremely Principal Lawyer RK Law excited about that as well. We have been getting ready to relaunch our Women Driving Transport Careers programme and our Learning Initiatives breakfasts as soon as we have a clear pathway out of the covid restrictions.

We are going ahead with organising our end of year functions even though I may not be able to do the coastto-coast trip that I managed between lockdowns last year to see members and sponsors.

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

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

Australia

I was not going to do another column about Covid and all its implications, however, I am sure everyone is feeling the same effects of lethargy and depression and is so over the snap seven-day lockdown which is now into THE OZ TRUCKER 60-plus days in Victoria, as MIKE WILLIAMS I am. contributors@bigrigs.com.au I was made redundant on the day the lockdown commenced so for the first time felt the effects of those who have had to stay at home alone for previous lockdowns.

Of course, during this lockdown, I had to move house without the help of family or friends which would normally have made LOBBYIST the moving work go much STEVE SHEARER easier and much SA Road Transport Associationmore fun.

Executive Director Fortunately for me, my mates in the trucking in-

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

Mates like Rod Pilon of Rod Pilon Transport at Dubbo, are always there for you when you need them most. Photo: Giles Dowling/Google

We have our fingers crossed that at least local members will be able to attend in the cities where they can be held. So, look out for

the information and invitations on our social media and in your inbox if you are a member.

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formation about Transport Women Australia Limited, or any of our programmes, email chair@transportwomen.com. au or phone 0417 422 319.

COLUMN 37

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Celebrating Aussie trucking’s Covid efforts Safety and Freight Transport and longtime industry supporter, Scott Buchholz, has emphasised the tremendous effort we have made.

“Let me thank all of those drivers, transport operators, freight and logistics workers who throughout this pandemic have risen to the challenge and kept our shelves stocked and critical supplies moving,” Buchholz said.

“The work you do is important, and you have the absolute respect and appreciation of the entire country.

“Thank you to all of those who have made the choice to get vaccinated and those businesses big and small who have supported their teams to get vaccinated.”

Despite the challenging restrictions and requirements, our industry has done the right thing.

In all the tens of thousands of border crossings that occur every night of the week we have only had a handful of cases in the transport industry.

One of my fully vaccinated drivers has had more than 65 Covid tests carried out on him.

ATA CHAIR DAVID SMITH Australian Trucking Association

THE transport industry has done an amazing job over the last 18 months – a true credit to everyone in this industry.

We’ve kept working right through this pandemic and, as essential workers, kept WeetBix on the shelves, and the country going.

We’ve come across many hurdles along this journey, from changing border requirements to extensive Covid tests and now new vaccination requirements.

For this, the ATA and the Australian Government have come together to celebrate the efforts of our essential industry during the Covid pandemic.

To those drivers, mechanics, schedulers, managers, and admin staff who are working on the frontline to keep our country supplied – thank you.

Assistant Minister for Road

This is physically and emotionally exhausting but demonstrates the commitment and dedication drivers and their families around the country are displaying.

With many operators and business owners in low spirits, it’s important the wider community recognises and celebrates the essential role they play.

Trucks are responsible for putting food in the supermarket, medicines in the pharmacy and fuel in the service station. Everything we consume is brought to us on a truck, and our drivers should be proud.

Moving forward, Minster Buchholz says the most important thing industry can do is to get vaccinated.

“It is so important we all get vaccinated; I have had two doses of AstraZeneca and am now fully vaccinated,” Buchholz said.

“GP’s, pharmacies and vaccination hubs are supplied and ready to put jabs in arms and I ask you to join me in getting vaccinated.”

As borders continue to tighten, I urge the transport

industry to move towards getting vaccinated. We are moving into a world that is going to have to learn to live with Covid.

We need to keep up the fantastic work that has already been done to keep this momentum going.

We need to demonstrate that we can get on with the job and keep this country moving.

The ATA has joined the Australian Government to thank truckies for keeping the nation moving during Covid.

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38 SPY ON THE ROAD

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Shelter installed for Queensland border checks SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON

Impact of highway bypasses Just how much impact is there on a town’s local economy if a relocated main highway bypasses it?

That is the question being asked by many residents at Ingham, which is 110 kilometres north of Townsville and 240 kilometres south of Cairns on the Bruce Highway.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads has done an Economic Impact Assessment (EIA) as part of a planning study to

improve the flood immunity of the Bruce Highway.

Even after sustained heavy rain, Ingham is renowned for flooding and many of our drivers would have been held up around there over the years.

This EIA was done to better understand the potential economic impacts if the Bruce Highway was realigned out of the centre of Ingham.

The report suggests that the most likely economic impact would be a decrease in business turnover of around 1.7 per cent.

It indicates that the bulk (76 per cent) of business turnover in central Ingham is attributable to local customers and this would not be affected by the bypass.

Having spoken to many Ingham residents and truck drivers, I can report that the

An Australia Post truck on the job in Tasmania.

majority are against such a realignment.

Included in the EIA was a summary of findings from studies of other towns that had experienced the development of a bypass.

Over many years I can’t recall being told by truck drivers of any Australian towns at which business had increased after a bypass.

So I asked some drivers around the nation about the subject.

A NSW truckie who has great knowledge of the road transport industry said the just completed Pacific Motorway section between Woolgoolga and Ballina had resulted in several towns being bypassed.

“Woodburn, on the Richmond River, is particularly feeling the pinch. It was a popular stop for motorists and truckies who could stop

at the riverside park and walk across the road to buy food.

The town really doesn’t have much else going for it. Another town, Broadwater, just 10 kilometres north, has also been bypassed, but it doesn’t rely on passing traffic like Woodburn does. Broadwater at least has a sugar mill to support it. Woodburn has a population of about 750,” he said.

Woodburn is 710 kilometres north of Sydney. It was bypassed in September 2020 and until then the busy Pacific Highway went roughly through the centre of town.

A Tasmanian veteran said there had been numerous towns there which fell into that category.

“Ross (town) was bypassed many years ago and for a period died, then action by locals brought it back to a busy little town that thrives. Deloraine is another that has been bypassed for some time. From what I know it did notice the change, but that was mainly the heavy vehicles traversing the climb up through the town not being part of the daily routine. Deloraine also being the business hub for a large rural area for legal, accountancy and hardware and groceries and banking, it did not affect them as much as a smaller town like Ross.

I drove through Deloraine last week to avoid roadworks on the highway and there was barely a parking spot available at 3pm on a Tuesday. For this town maybe locals are appreciative of the bypass as the income from heavy vehicles for food was most likely quite minimal,” he said.

Flashback to before Broadwater in northern NSW was bypassed with a picture of a semi rolling through on the old Pacific Highway.

Ross is located off the Midlands Highway between Launceston and Hobart.

Deloraine is off the northern Bass Highway and not far from coastal Devonport.

He said that Latrobe town many years ago was on the national highway and was bypassed.

“Latrobe has become a very busy little town since being bypassed and one can barely get a park no matter the time of day. Some of that may have something to do with being about 8 kilometres from Devonport so outlying regions possibly visit Latrobe instead of Devonport to shop with distance from home being similar distances to either town,” the Tassie lad added.

Milk crate ride Our champion truckie mates see some strange and weird things on their travels around this vast country.

An NT driver couldn’t believe his eyes whilst making deliveries around Katherine.

There was a pet dog in a milk crate on the back of a push bike being ridden by somebody not known to him.

This was a bit distressing to the truckie who owns a pet dog himself and is a genuine animal lover.

But he was assured by some locals that the mutt has been getting such a free ride for years and enjoys it.

Our best friends A learned politician once said that anybody who wants a genuine friend they can trust “should get a dog”.

Over our lives, most would have been let down by someone they called a friend.

There are several reasons why I discuss this subject and the first is there seems to be more truckies these days who take pet dogs with them.

A second reason is after I heard some drivers talking about dogs after hearing a Tom T Hall song entitled

SPY ON THE ROAD 39

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 thanks to the installation of four temporary shelters at Bilinga.

A truck driver sent pics to Spy with some “covering words” – pardon the pun.

“Until recently, police had to brave whatever weather elements were served up, but now they have a roof over their heads.

The shelters span two lanes of the Gold Coast Highway opposite the Coolangatta Airport,” he said.

Heading to Deloraine in Tasmania.

‘Old Dogs, Children and Watermelon Wine’.

That is one of the themes of this popular song by a legendary American singer who recently passed away.

Jobs a boost It has been good to hear that Australia Post will employ lots of workers including some truck drivers in the lead up to Christmas.

There has been huge demand by customers sending parcels because of Covid-19.

Australia Post needs to recruit almost 5000 workers to keep up with demand from people in locked down areas, with more than two million parcels being delivered each day.

The postal service says it needs to fill 1600 permanent and fixed term jobs across the country, and another 3300 casual jobs before Christmas, to deal with a record surge in online shopping.

There are vacancies in every state and territory, with workers needed in parcel, mail processing and customer service teams, as well as posties who drive vans, trucks and motorcycles.

Australians are sending and receiving parcels in volumes not seen since Christmas.

“At the moment, every day feels like Christmas at Australia Post and we’re on the lookout for people to join us and help deliver and process record volumes across the country,” executive general manager of people and culture Sue Davies said.

It was not long ago that Australia Post was downgrading its home postal delivery services due to less normal sized letters being sent because of emails.

That included less postmen and less days a week having mail placed in your letterbox.

Almost every day, rain, hail or shine, you’ll see trucks on our highways and byways sporting a big Australia Post sign.

Covid checks in shade Police officers performing Covid checks on trucks entering the Gold Coast from NSW now have the comfort of weather protection

The Bruce Highway, heading towards Ingham.

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Greenback curiosity A South Oz truckie stopped at a roadhouse eatery and purchased some food and paid for it at the counter with a $100 bill.

He had been to the bank and made a cash withdrawal to pay for some house repairs and that greenback was amongst a few hundred bucks he kept for personal expenses.

“I paid with a greenback and the worker there glanced at me with a strange look,” he said.

The worker told old mate that hardly anybody ever paid with a greenback and queried if he was wealthy, which he isn’t. However it was a second remark by the worker which he mentioned.

“He asked was I was

The covered area where traffic entering the Gold Coast area from NSW is checked by police.

dealer because of the greenback,” he said.

After being assured that the truckie was an honest man, the worker felt rather embarrassed and apologised.

Spooky drive It was a spooky drive for a NSW driver when he was interstate in Queensland, delivering equipment.

“I was driving from Moranbah to Mackay and it was about midnight and these bloody lights just kept following me for quite some time. I would speed up and so did they. I was really spooked and they stopped near Nebo and I was really relieved,” he said.

The veteran driver has no doubt that it was a Min Min Light he had seen.

And he was keen to assure readers that he is of sound mind.

“The light was real to me and I don’t drink alcohol,” he said.

Attack no laughing matter A group of truckies were standing together at a roadhouse parking area when they saw a man several hundred metres away who was swinging a bag above his head.

At first they thought it was funny and most had a good laugh.

Until they noticed the man was the victim of an attack by a magpie.

Magpies become very

aggressive during breeding season, especially when an unsuspecting person walks in the vicinity of their nest.

The attack continued until the man was well away from the area where the roadhouse is, 200m from a major shopping centre.

Later on in the roadhouse eatery another driver described this particular magpie as a “rogue bird” which has swooped many truckies who head over to the shops during a break.

Magpies are a protected species and they certainly don’t want any harm to come to it.

But they would like parks and wildlife rangers to catch and relocate it.

One indicated he would contact authorities with a request.

Bite fright A well known truckie was delivering supplies to a pub in his area and got the fright of his life.

He had food on a trolley and walked past a ute which was parked outside.

A large Rottweiler which was chained up at the back of the ute lunged at him and let out an almighty bark.

“It frightened the hell out of me,” he said.

Turned out it was a tradie’s ute and the pet dog was there to protect tools.

The tradie apologised and promised to park the ute away from other vehicles in the future.

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COLUMNS 87

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY JUNE 26 2020

40 PUZZLES

Sad day for all in transport

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

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

SUDOKU

1 N ame a domesticated camel-like S American ruminant† (6) 7 What is an alternative term for the cosmos (8) 8 Name some ovoid fruits of a tropical tree† (6) 9 The leter “W” is the symbol for which rare metallic element (8) 10 A cashier is also known as a what (6) 11 What are artificial hips, or their like (8) 14 Name another term for a schemer (8) 18 What is a devout petition to one’s God (6) 19 T o be in the open air, is to be what (8) 21 What are lumps of gold called (6) 22 Name another term for exits (8) 23 What is the capacity or habit of vigorous activity (6)† (6)

Down

1 To have confessed, is to have done what (8) 2 What is a diamond-shaped pattern of two or more colours (6) 3 What was the nationality of Adolf Hitler (8) 4 Name the furnace that is used for baking bricks (4)

5 What was†the former official name of Iran (6) 6 Name another term for a facial expression (6) 12 What is a dolphin-like cetacean (8) 13 Name a building connected with a church (8) 15 What is another term for a speech of high praise or commendation (6) 16 Which Asian republic was formerly Palestine (6) 17 What is a bracelet in the form of a ring (6) 20 To be neither very good nor very bad, is to be what (2,2)

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Across: 1 Alpaca, 7 Universe, 8 Mangos, 9 Tungsten, 10 Teller, 11 Implants, 14 Designer, 18 Prayer, 19 Alfresco, 21 Ingots, 22 Egresses, 23 Energy.

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

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

For some, their entire careers so far.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Down: 1 Admitted, 2 Argyle, 3 Austrian, 4 Kiln, 5 Persia, 6 Aspect, 12 Porpoise, 13 Sacristy, 15 Eulogy, 16 Israel, 17 Bangle, 20 So so.

Across

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

Picture: Contributed

in Melbourne.

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

We also presented the inaugural Trish Pickering Mem-

orial Award, sponsored by the wonderful Wes Pickering.

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

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

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

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

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

Across

gram.

1 Eating places I would like to thank the 4 Circular band at Big Rigs fantastic team 7 Top card for their incredible newspaper 8 By wayand of wish them onsupport 9 Precipitous going success. hope that I get the oppor12ISlight parody tunity to continue 13 Stifled laughs to work with some of them and so work to15 Consumed wards making the trucking in16 Pigs’ enclosure dustry a better appreciated, 18 Female swan and a safer place for our peo19 Monkey ple.

21 Made vigilant 24 Actual 26 Layperson 27 Church seat 28 Sheltered side 29 Strikes final pitchers reminder to all Big 30AWater

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

HARD

industry as dry as they can.

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

MOORE TRAILERS

PITTSWORTH PHONE (07) 4693 1088 Fax (07) 4693 1545 email: sales@mooretrailers.com.au www.mooretrailers.com.au V1 - IBRE01Z01MA

losing their contracts and the ability to support their families.

It appears the government does not care.

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

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

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

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1 Cafes, 4 Hoop, 7 Ace, 8 Via, 9 Steep, 12 Skit, 13 Titters, 15 Ate, 16 Sty, 18 Pen, 19 Ape, 21 Alerted, 24 Real, 26 Laity, 27 Pew, 28 Lee, 29 Hits, 30 Ewers.

EASY

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

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

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

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

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

Down: 1 Cast, 2 Active, 3 Feet, 4 Hiss, 5 Oak, 6 Petty, 10 Eta, 11 Petal, 14 Repel, 17 Teeter, 18 Perth, 20 Era, 21 Ales, 22 Tile, 23 Dyes, 25 Apt.

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

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

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

the owner and the employee.

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

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

Truck drivers are still dying at work.

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

Rigs readers: now is the time to unite, Downnow is the time to ensure equality in this industry.

1 Members of a play Together we can stand on 2 Busy common ground working to 3 Measures of length (imp) ensure the government contin4 Sibilant sound ues to support transport work5 Tree ers and the industry they support.

6 Insignificant TWU will continue to 10The Greek letter voice the needs 11 Corolla leaf of transport workers 14 Force to backthe employers, their industry 17 Seesaw bodies and the clients.

18Better Australian city standards mean job 20 Period of ultimately time security and a safer 21 Drinks and fairer industry for all.

22We Roofing can liftitem the standards we 23 Stains need together – our lives depend on it.to learn 25 Quick

More Trailer For Your Money

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EXPERT ADVICE 41

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021

Stop wasting so much money: tyre pressures must match the load

The ideal footprint only happens when the tyre-pressure matches the tyre load.

Load to Inflation tables are produced by every tyre manufacturer and tyre association.

COST CUTTER CUTTER COST CHET CHETCLINE CLINE AIR CTI Air CTIfounder/owner Founder/ Owner

WE use runners for running, slippers for relaxing, work boots for work, and flip flops for the beach. If you want to walk on soft snow, use snowshoes that spread the load over a large area.

DucksINhave big flat feet, WOMEN TRANSPORT as do camels for soft ground.

JACQUELENE BROTHERTON Chair ofall Transport Australia We knowWomen horses and cows sink into paddocks.

Race car tyre pressure

wins or loses races. Bathurst is lost if tyre pressures are one psi wrong. Desert racers run low pressures. Trucks on the Tanami stop and lower tyre pressures. Four-wheel AT THEknow WHEEL drivers the benefits of DAVID MEREDITH low-pressure tyres when off contributors@bigrigs.com.au road.

Even bicycle racers adjust tyre pressures, to tune traction to the track.

Every car manufacturer recommends a correct pressure for each model. Tyre pressures are super important.

Michelin recommends matching EDITOR tyre pressures to the tyre GRAHAM load. Michelin proJAMES james.graham@bigrigs.com.au duced charts showing tyre wear loss when over or under inflated. Load to Inflation

tables are produced by every tyre manufacturer and tyre association recommending the correct tyre pressure for the load.

The NHVR PBS Tyre reTRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER view recommended the folDAVIDpressures VILE for 11R22.5 lowing contributors@bigrigs.com.au tyres for typical Aussie maximum loads: 120 psi for steers, 75 psi for tandem drives, and 55 psi for tri axle trailers.

All of this proves running one single tyre pressure on all of our trucks reduces safety, costs truck owners a lot of money, and damages our roads and world.

So, what are the facts.

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ Truck tyre footprints, where JON WALLIS contributors@bigrigs.com.au the rubber meets the road, is an engineering masterpiece.

Engineers spend a for-

tune getting the steel cord placement, strength, rubber thickness and profile, and placement exactly right to spread the load evenly over the footprint area.

If the load is concentrated in one area, the tread will squirm as it rolls around and wear will increase. This ideal footprint only happens when the tyre-pressure matches the tyre load.

What should you do? Adjust your tyre pressures every time the load changes. When heavy, you need lots of tyre pressure. When empty only a little pressure is needed. And on gravel optimal tyre pressures are 60 per cent of optimal highway pressure.

What are the benefits?

GET THE EATON LUBE INTO YOUR AXLES!

THE OZ TRUCKER MIKE WILLIAMS contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NEWS RICHARD OLSEN TWU NSW State Secretary

Substantially better tyre life.

Our customers report tyre life increases at least 30 per cent. Saving one tyre in three saves a lot of money over the life of the truck.

Downtime reduces because tyres don’t need changing so often. Less punctures save dangerous and costly roadside tyre changing. Traction increases which reduces stopping distances and improves trailer tracking.

Trailer swing is substantially reduced increasing safety for all road users.

Over inflation increases wear and tear on every truck component, from wheel bearings to diffs to intercoolers to suspension seats. Running the optimal tyre pressure

increases the life of the entire truck, while substantially reducing maintenance and downtime costs. The savings are simply huge.

Obviously, changing tyre pressures manually is not effective. Central Tyre Inflation is a commercially available add on product that has been around for decades. A dash mounted tyre pressure display and control makes on the fly adjustment easy.

Electronic controls automatically maintain any set pressure, including automatic re inflation of any tyre that has a puncture or air loss.

This eliminates almost all blow outs, saving even more money. Simply push a button on the dash to adjust the tyre pressures. The benefits and systems have proven to significantly reduce costs and increases safety. Everyone wins.

We have written a white paper on Central Tyre Inflation and tyre pressures, that is a 120-page comprehensive document explaining all aspects of total tyre pressure management.

Contact AIR CTI via either admin@aircti.com or via 03 51276128 for a free copy, or a chat.

Additionally, a full million-kilometre guarantee, and money back guarantee backs up every AIR CTI total tyre pressure management system, ensuring your total vehicle cost is minimised.

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PEACE OF MIND

Backed by Roadranger support

42 CAREERS AND TRAINING

FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Queensland truckie living the dream

BY ALF WILSON

ENTHUSIASTIC driver Sid Mansfield would recommend a career as a truck driver to any young person, despite the additional challenges that have come about in the Covid-19 era.

The 25-year-old Mansfield is well qualified to offer an opinion having been a truckie for around five years.

Mansfield is living the dream working for the family company from his baseat Ipswich in southern Queensland.

The blonde-headed Mansfield was near his Kenworth K200 powered by a Cummins 600hp motor when Big Rigs saw him while he was parked at the entrance to the Port of Townsville.

“It is very hot today and is going to get worse but I love the job and all of the people you get to meet and the places have seen. I reckon it is a good job for a younger person,” he said.

At home Mansfield enjoys a happy life with his

partner and three small children.

“They are all aged under five,” he said.

Mansfield was about to haul a dredge from Townsville way up to Weipa on western Cape York.

“I have heard the roads on the way up there are pretty rough,” he said.

However, Big Rigs was able to confirm that assessment with one positive qualification.

There hasn’t been much rain there lately and the roads were all open. Which is in stark comparison to the wet season when roads are closed.

When asked what he would consider his favourite roadhouse or stop off, Mansfield opted to nominate several.

“The Gums near Tara, the Eulo Pub and the Thargo Hotel are places I like to stop at when in those areas,” he said.

Mansfield is adamant there are not enough suitable rest areas for truckies.

“Especially up this way.

We need more with good

facilities,” he said.

Asking Mansfield what he considered bad roads to travel on didn’t prove a problem in gleaning a quick reply.

“I would have to say the old Charleville Road is up there with the worst.

Also, the Fitzroy Development Road and the one between Glenmorgan and Tara.

There are lots of roadworks along the way in Queensland,” he said.

Regarding Coronavirus, Mansfield said it had caused many problems for drivers especially at border crossings.

“As far as the vaccine goes I think we should be given a choice about whether to have the jabs. Don’t force it upon us,” he said.

In conclusion, I asked Mansfield what were the main reasons he would advise youngsters under the age of 30 to become a truck driver.

“It is a good career, allows you to clear your head and think when I am on the road,” he said.

Young father-of-three Sid Mansfield is loving life on the road driving for his family’s transport business. Photo: Alf Wilson

Cahill Transport is a proud Australian owned and operated business with a history spanning 70 years.

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ABOUT AG-SPREAD

TAFE Queensland is the largest training provider for apprentices and trainees in the state, putting 20,000 apprentices and trainees through their paces every year.

TAFE QUEENSLAND OFFERS MORE THAN JUST APPRENTICESHIP AND TRAINEESHIP TRAINING. PARTNER WITH US FOR ALL YOUR BUSINESS TRAINING NEEDS SO YOU CAN EXPAND YOUR BUSINESS, DIVERSIFY YOUR SKILL SET, OR UPSKILL YOUR STAFF.

CALL THE TAFE QUEENSLAND APPRENTICE HOTLINE

for more information, or submit your cover letter and resume to drivingjobsaust@gmail.com RTO No. 0275 | CRICOS No. 03020E

Easter Group Pty Ltd 73 Formation St, Wacol Easter Group, located in Wacol, provides time sensitive road transporting solutions to many companies throughout Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. .

We are a family owned business, operating since 1976.

We currently have the following positions available:

OPERATIONS ALLOCATORS

Whether you're new to the industry or a seasoned driver, this is the perfect app for you.

• • • •

Find nearest petrol station or rest-stops Help plan the most effective route Discuss all things trucking related Complete informative short courses

(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

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