Trailer Mag February 2022

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A U S T R A L A S I A’ S T R A I L E R I N D U S T R Y R E S O U R C E

FEBRUARY 2022

ROAD RULES

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FEBRUARY 2022 $10.00

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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK PUBLISHER

John Murphy john.murphy@primecreative.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR

Luke Applebee luke.applebee@primecreative.com.au

JOURNALISTS William Craske william.craske@primecreative.com.au Paul Matthei paul.matthei@primecreative.com.au Anjali Behl anjali.behl@primecreative.com.au

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4

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Trailer Magazine Editor Luke Applebee

A unique blend If there was an anthem for 2021 it could just be Sea Power’s ‘Red Rock Riviera’, a melancholic tune popularised by the disturbing, cathartic roleplaying video game, Disco Elysium, where the player assumes the role of amnesiac detective Harry Du Bois tasked with solving a murder mystery in the fictitious city of Revachol – the disgraced former capital of the in-game world. For at least a month or so, this fascinating setting became my refuge of sorts from the real-world dramas of supply chain disruption and most recently the shortage and price gouging of diesel exhaust fluid and rapid antigen tests.

These lyrics, on loop ad nauseam, ‘I’ll wake up in a new life, down by the seaside’ probably summarises the thoughts of many, myself included, as we endure one challenge after the next, hoping for the day we awaken to a world where the pandemic is gone, supply chains restored, back to business as usual.

Let’s be honest with ourselves. Not even Harry’s world is this optimistic, but neither is it all doom and gloom. And that’s where Trailer comes in.

We recognise the hard work, the trials and tribulations of Australia’s mighty transport industry and everyone who plays their part in keeping the nation moving in the right direction. Here you will find passion, the fruits of the industry’s labour. Without innovation in trailing equipment there can be no

hope for a better tomorrow.

Optimal load restraint saves lives, improving safety for the driver, other road users and, of course, the community. In the months to follow I hope to see this conversation gain the traction it deserves. At times it can seem like an under-valued aspect of a truck-trailer build but based on many of the conversations I held with operators last year I can confidently say it is a crucial investment.

With bigger payload capacities comes productivity gains that helps to limit the total number of truck trips needed, again this saves lives and boosts the bottom lines of businesses. We’ve seen the uptake of Performance-Based Standards (PBS) equipment continue to soar and no doubt in conversation with trailer builders, component specialists, PBS engineers and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and other interested parties this trend will hopefully continue. Gains in PBS translate well to modernising the national fleet along with all of the benefits that adhering to all the benefits that high productivity vehicles bring.

So, what will the anthem be for 2022?

Going by my current earworm (thanks John Lennon and Paul McCartney) it’ll probably be ‘Get Back’.

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28

February 2022 8 Industry News The latest news in the commercial road transport industry.

26 Economy Linfox and other industry partners have aligned with the Government on a National Location Registry.

34

28 Trailer Builder To meet the demands of its fast-growing business, All Road Transport is investing in Vawdrey trailers.

30 Rigid Bodies The numbers show it is time for Australia’s fleets to modernise its rigid-bodied vehicles in the interests of boosting safety and efficiency.

36 Moving Floor Cargo Floor’s moving floor system offers the team at Pearce Smith Logistics greater productivity and versatility for their recycling transport application.

40

40 Trailer Building Materials/Components See timely examples of the latest innovations adding value to the trailer manufacturing scene.

44 Industry Icon During his 35-year road transport centred career, Hamish Christie-Johnston has lived and worked in NSW, Victoria, New Zealand and, briefly, in the US.

46

46 Fleet of the Month Brian and Sharon Anderson have built a successful crane truck business primarily servicing southeast Queensland and utilising a fleet of specialised trucks.

48 World Map Belgium demonstrates its world-leading commitment to hydrogen production.

52 Special Report The electrification of commercial vehicles in Australia is finally gaining momentum.

58 What’s On Upcoming shows and field days.

6

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

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NEWS

Road upgrades worth $230M take shape in Townsville Four new bridges and overpasses under

approaches.

“That is why the Australian Government

construction on Townsville Ring Road are set

“The project will duplicate the Ring Road

is investing 80 per cent of the cost of this

to benefit the road transport industry.

between Vickers Bridge and Shaw Road

project – that’s $184 million – as part of our

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for

to four lanes and install new bridges and

$10 billion 15-year Bruce Highway Upgrade

Infrastructure, Transport and Regional

overpasses at the Bohle and Little Bohle

Program to improve road safety, capacity

Development, Barnaby Joyce, said the works

Rivers, and at Beck Drive and Hervey Range

and flood resilience between Brisbane and

are already delivering benefits to the region,

Developmental Road,” said Bailey.

Cairns.”

with a strong focus on using materials and

“The end result will be improved safety and

Member for Thuringowa, Aaron Harper, said

suppliers from the Townsville area.

efficiency for road users, and better access

local contractors and suppliers would reap

“The TRR5 project will provide long-term

between the Upper Ross and the Ring Road,

the benefits of the project.

improvements to traffic flow and road safety

especially for locals heading to and from key

“We have 39 local businesses currently

on the Bruce Highway in Townsville,” said

employment areas such as the hospital and

engaged and completing works on the Ring

Joyce.

university.”

Road upgrade, with more than 80 per cent

“This upgrade is about ensuring the Bruce

Excellent progress has been made during

of spend to date going to local suppliers and

Highway can meet the strategic transport

the first six months of works, with bridge

contractors,” said Harpe.

needs of the Townsville region well into the

piling completed on two of the four major

“That’s more than $40 million that has been

future.

structures.

injected into Townsville and the surrounding

“More than 17,000 vehicles use this section

Coming back from a short Christmas

region, benefiting local companies

each day, 12 per cent of which are freight

break, works will continue at a swift pace

employing local workers.

vehicles.

as crews push ahead with bridge and road

“We’ll see these economic benefits continue

“When the upgrade is completed, these

construction works along the six-kilometre

to flow through the community as works

passenger and freight vehicles will benefit

alignment.

continue throughout 2022 and into 2023.

from improved efficiency and safety,

Federal Member for Herbert, Phillip

“A big thank you goes out to my

reduced travel times and better access to

Thompson, said the project was extremely

community for their support and patience

the region.”

important for the Townsville region.

while crews undertake these major upgrade

Queensland Transport and Main Roads

“There’s nothing more important when

works.”

Minister, Mark Bailey, said more than

it comes to our roads than safety, and

The $230 million upgrade project is jointly

200,000 tonnes of material had already

the Bruce Highway is the busiest and

funded by the Australian and Queensland

been delivered to form the new Bruce

most critical road in Queensland,” said

governments on an 80:20 funding split. It is

Highway carriageway and bridge

Thompson.

due for completion in 2023.

Federal and state governments continue to finance essential road works.

8

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

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NEWS

Covid is changing the way our trucking industry operates.

Entry requirements change for QLD freight Queensland removed the requirement for

a Covid-19 test and not continue their journey

Queensland or keep records of proximate

freight workers and truck drivers to provide a

until they have a negative result.”

contacts whilst on duty in Queensland.

negative Covid-19 PCR test to enter the state

Bailey said other freight border entry

Freight and logistics operators must:

in January.

requirement will remain including vaccination.

• Hold a valid F Pass (Freight and

Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark

“Drivers will still need to provide proof they

Logistics).

Bailey, said the change follows a decision out

are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and

• Be fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

of national cabinet.

complete the F border pass,” he said.

• Immediately undertake a Covid-19 test

“We thank all truckies, freight drivers, and the

“Freight workers and truck drivers are

(PCR or RAT) if you develop symptoms

industry for their cooperation and patience

absolutely essential to keeping food on the

over the last year,” said Bailey.

table and rebuilding our economy, and I

“There is no longer any requirement for

cannot thank them enough for their efforts

test result is received, or they have

freight and truck drivers to provide a negative

over the last two years.

ended their isolation as permitted under

Covid-19 PCR test to enter Queensland.

“We understand it has been a challenging

“We have implemented a new F border pass

time for the industry and will continue

for freight workers and truck drivers, which

to support the industry as we have done

interactions by registering applicable QR

will still need to be completed to cross the

throughout the pandemic.

codes.

border.

“This is one step which will make it easier

“Drivers must continue to monitor symptoms,

for them to work in Queensland, and we will

The Queensland Freight Protocol,

and stay home if unwell, have tested positive,

continue to adjust the protocols to reflect the

according to the Department of Transport

or have been deemed a close contact of a

health situation.”

and Main Roads, is necessary to manage

confirmed Covid-19 case.

Freight and logistics operators are no longer

the risk of transmission of Covid-19 from

“If a driver develops symptoms while in

required to: Show evidence of a negative

freight and logistics operators who are

Queensland, they must immediately undertake

Covid-19 result before entering

travelling to and from Queensland.

10

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

consistent with Covid-19.

• Not continue the journey until a negative

a Queensland Public Health Direction.

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NEWS

Qube Logistics modernises sideloader fleet, CFO steps down The latest sideloaders to join Qube’s fleet

unloading, an alarm system alerts

acquisitions, investments, capital raisings

represent an ongoing investment by the

the driver.

and debt funding initiatives that have been

transport and logistics firm to enhance

In other news, Qube Chief Financial Officer,

a key component of Qube’s growth.

payload capacity and improve safety.

Paul Lewis, is stepping down from his role

“There is no doubt he has been an

These sideloaders are reported to offer

after more than 15 years with the business.

exceptional CFO. I regret but fully respect

a low tare weight and versatile crane

“Paul has been a critical part of Qube’s

his decision to move on after having made

design along with opti-slide which enables

success taking the business from its

such a valuable contribution to Qube.”

shipping containers to be loaded forwards

beginnings as a $200 million infrastructure

Lewis is expected to depart Qube between

or aft of the centre position to improve

fund in 2007 to the over six billion

April and June which will allow him to

truck and trailer axle group loading.

dollar listed entity of today,” said Qube

present the half year results in February and

If the stabilisers have not been stowed

Managing Director, Paul Digney.

allow sufficient time for a smooth transition

correctly on completion of loading/

“During that time, he has overseen multiple

for a newly appointed CFO.

Bruce Hwy made safer following $39M works The latest safety upgrades along the Bruce

Minister, Mark Bailey, said protected turn

Federal Member for Dawson, George

Highway have greatly improved freight

lanes and improved lighting were installed at

Christensen, said the Australian Government

efficiency and heavy vehicle management

the highway intersections with:

is committed to addressing safety concerns

according to the Deputy Prime Minister.

• Maraju-Yakapari Road / Yakapari-Seaforth

along the highway, improving journeys for all

The works, valued at more than $39 million,

Road

on Queensland’s main north-south commuter,

cover the Bruce Highway between The Leap

• Tweedies Road

tourist and freight route.

and Careys Creek.

• Gumellis Road

“I am thrilled to see another set of works

The jointly funded projects were delivered as

• Pyms Road

completed along the Bruce Highway,

part of the 15-year Bruce Highway Upgrade

• McGills Road

improving safety and access for locals, freight

Program, a $13 billion program of works to

• Watts Road

and visitors in time for the holiday season and

improve safety, flood resilience and capacity

• Geeburga-Buthurra Road

travel,” said Christensen.

from Brisbane to Cairns.

• Buthurra Station Road

“We are continuing to roll out projects like

Deputy Prime Minister, Barnaby Joyce, said

this right across Queensland under our $110

the Australian Government is continuing

“We’ve also installed town entry treatments

billion nationwide infrastructure investment

to make Queensland roads safer and more

at Farleigh, The Leap and Kuttabul to remind

pipeline, which is supporting jobs and

efficient for motorists.

drivers to slow down when they enter these

economic stimulus while getting people home

“The project installed a wide centre line

communities,” said Bailey.

sooner and safer.”

treatment to reduce the risk of head-on

“Six more projects are currently underway

Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert, said

collisions, fitted roadside barriers and

in the Mackay-Whitsunday district, as part

the investment in the region contributed to

upgraded nine intersections along this

of the multi-billion dollar Bruce Highway

Queensland’s strong economic recovery.

stretch,” said Joyce.

Upgrade program.

“Our investment in the Bruce is key to

“This work has greatly improved driver

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to

North Queensland’s continued economic

safety, freight efficiency and heavy vehicle

delivering these key upgrades on the Bruce

development, providing more employment

management on a key transport route along

Highway as Queensland’s busiest highway

opportunities and a safer national highway as

our national highway.”

and a vital connector for communities across

part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Covid-19

Queensland Transport and Main Roads

the state.”

Economic Recovery Plan,” said Gilbert.

12

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

TRS2

TRS2273 Trailer Mag Be Food Thermaxx outline v2.indd 1

14/1/22 12:38 pm

NEWS

Former Google executive joins AusPost National courier, Australia Post, has created

Melbourne. Australia Post Group Chief

exceptional customer service every time.

a new role to lead its digital transformation.

Executive & Managing Director, Paul

“Leonie’s global experience at Google

Leonie Valentine has been named Executive

Graham, said this new role reflects the

will help lead us into the next chapter as

General Manager Customer Experience and Digital. She joined Australia Post in January

organisation’s strategic direction and

we continue to transform our business.

focus on customer experience and digital

Whether you transact with us online, in

2022 and will lead key functions including

transformation.

a Post Office or through your favourite

customer services, digital channels, data

“Australia Post has never been more

retailer, the customer experience should be

science, payments and financial services, as

relevant – with millions of Australians

seamless each and every time.

the organisation evolves its post-pandemic

relying on us each and every day during

“We continue to make significant

operating model. Valentine brings deep

the pandemic to provide essential supplies

investments in our app, tracking

experience to the role having worked at

and connection with the community.” he

capabilities and other digital channels and

Google, CSL and Telstra and has more than

said. “The key opportunity for us now is

with the support of the whole Australia

25 years of experience in sales, marketing

to work with our customers to ensure we

Post team, I’m confident Leonie will

and operations. In her most recent role

are creating new products and services to

sharpen our focus on how we leverage and

Valentine was Managing Director, Google

meet their changing needs, and providing

expand our digital presence.”

A win for advanced manufacturing in VIC An advanced manufacturing facility

“Victoria is the manufacturing state

Government’s Land 400 Phase 3

will soon be established in the greater

and this project will further boost our

Infantry Fighting Vehicle program in

Geelong region to deliver a billion-dollar

capabilities, creating hundreds of jobs

Victoria. A PWC report commissioned by

howitzer project.

and delivering benefits across the supply

Hanwha estimated that the program’s

Minister for Industry Support and

chain,” said Pakula.

manufacturing effort will generate $5.7

Recovery, Martin Pakula, congratulated

“This decision reinforces the strength of

billion in total economic impacts in the

Hanwah Defense Australia which was

Victorian advanced manufacturing and

state.

successful in its bid to deliver the LAND

the skills of our workers.”

“We thank the Victorian Government

8116 program in Victoria. This move

Hanwha Corporation is South Korea’s

for its continued support as we grow our

is set to strengthen the state’s defence

largest defence company and also

Australian workforce in Victoria for these

capabilities and create 300 highly skilled

operates in aerospace, fintech, mining

important national security projects,” said

local jobs in design, engineering and

and clean energy. Hanwha Defense

Hanwha Defense Australia Managing

manufacturing.

Australia was established in 2019 and is

Director, Richard Cho.

The $1.0 billion LAND 8116 program,

headquartered in Melbourne.

The Victorian defence sector contributes

announced by the Commonwealth

The Victorian Government in January

$8.4 billion to the economy each year,

Government, will establish a fleet of

signed a Memorandum of Understanding

employing around 24,000 people in

locally built and maintained self-propelled

with Hanwha to formalise a long-term

6,300 businesses. The sector provides

howitzers. Supply chain businesses

partnership to support the establishment

services and manufactures defence

will directly benefit from working with

of Hanwha’s defence manufacturing

equipment across military vehicle

Hanwha and their global partners,

operations in the state.

production, maritime design, aerospace

generating more local jobs, investment

Hanwha is also one of the final two

components, digital and cyber security

and export opportunities.

bidders to deliver the Commonwealth

and munitions.

14

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Register for the VTA State Conference The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) is

chain challenges that have disrupted the

from government, regulators, operators

hosting its annual State Conference from

transport industry for years,” the VTA said

and suppliers on what is needed to

20-22 March at Silverwater Resort, Phillip

in a statement.

safeguard our industry’s future, and enable

Island.

“Labour shortages, an ageing workforce,

the freight and logistics sector to support

The Conference will feature a range

out-of-date training and licencing

and facilitate Australia’s economic and

of speakers from industry, regulators,

regulations, and a reliance on imports to

government and other key stakeholders

support our industry have created a perfect

national prosperity.”

At last year’s State Conference, VTA CEO,

for timely and informative discussions on

storm that have brought our supply chains

Peter Anderson, emphasised the importance

issues impacting the industry including

to the brink of collapse.

of supply chain sovereignty for Australia.

infrastructure, industrial relations, taxation,

“State Conference 2022 will tackle these

Meanwhile, Assistant Minister for Road

training and education, safety and

issues head on, with a focus on how

Safety and Freight Transport, Scott

technology, and other matters.

Attaining Post Pandemic Supply Chain

Buchholz, told delegates that the Federal

This year’s theme is: ‘Attaining Post

Certainty is paramount for Australia’s

Government was committed to a safer,

Pandemic Supply Chain Certainty’.

economic security.

increasingly productive and more profitable

“Covid-19 has laid bare the supply

“Hear from prominent industry leaders

freight and road transport sector.

Silk Logistics Holdings completes $10.5M acquisition Logistics solutions company, Silk Logistics

growth in the company’s Port Logistics

Last year, Silk Logistics Holdings listed

Holdings, have confirmed the completion

and Distribution branch.

on the Australian Securities Exchange

of its recent $10.5 million acquisition of

“This acquisition of 101Warehousing

(ASX). The business commenced trading

Victoria-based contract logistics service

is consistent with the company’s

on the ASX in July 2021.The Initial

provider, 101Warehousing.

growth strategy as presented in the IPO

Public Offering (IPO) of $70 million

The Board of Directors of Silk Logistics

prospectus and provides a number of

comprised a primary raise of $10 million

Holdings officially confirmed the

opportunities to fast track the rapidly

and a secondary raise of $60 million to

completion on Wednesday, having

developing customer requirement for B2C

facilitate the partial equity sell-down of

announced the acquisition late last

/ e-commerce capabilities.”

Silk’s longstanding financial partner and

month.

101Warehousing founders Adrian and

investor, Tor Investment Management.

The purchase sees Silk expand its services

Bradley Kagan, along with key executive

At the time of the listing, the IPO received

to the fashion, homewares and toys

Paul Dutton, will remain on board and

strong support from institutional and

sectors.

contribute to the wider operations of the

retail investors, achieving a market

In the announcement published by Silk,

Silk company with their respected supply-

capitalisation of $151 million.

the company said 101Warehousing’s

chain knowledge.

Silk provides three distinct services across

business model was aligned with its

The acquisition is part of the company’s

two primary divisions – Port Logistics and

own, and are positioned to boost their

strategic focus for 2022, having

Contract Logistics.

B2C capability in the e-commerce

announced plans to purchase in their

Silk’s Board includes experienced

marketplace.

2021 AGM.

industrial and resources executive, Terry

Silk Logistics Holdings CEO and

Silk issued 2,321,048 fully-paid ordinary

Sinclair, as Chairman and corporate

Managing Director, Brendan Boyd, said

shares which are subject to a 24-month

advisory and M&A law partner, Stephen

the acquisition enabled opportunities for

escrow period.

Moulton, as Non-Executive Director.

NEWS

Willox, Frydenberg respond to ACTU Covid approach Employers to bear costs of limitless tests is

and others won’t if someone is sick and they

and operating as efficiently as they can,” he

unworkable, said the Chief Executive of Ai

are a designated close contact they can visit a

said. “We’re grateful that the Government

Group, Innes Willox, while the Treasurer, Josh

state clinic and get tested at no cost to them.

is actually recognising the importance of the

Frydenberg, also weighed in on the matter.

This cost will be picked up 50:50 by the

supply chain and those operators within the

This comment follows union demands for

Commonwealth Government in partnership

supply chain.”

Australian businesses to front the bill for

with the State Government.

Facing Omicron, Frydenberg explained what

potentially limitless Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)

“It’s not a choice between one person’s job

the Government is doing now is learning to

in the face of Omicron variant of Covid-19

and one person’s health,” he said.

live in as safe a way as possible with the virus.

ripping through the country.

“In fact, what we are trying to do is protect

“Following the medical advice but being

“Many businesses are struggling to survive

jobs and use the best medical health advice

pragmatic; having a balanced response

and to preserve jobs of their employees,” said

to do so.

ensuring that our response is proportionate

Willox.

“The isolation requirements were changed

to the health risks; seeking the best possible

“The [Australian Council of Trade Union’s]

by National Cabinet after advice from the

health and economic outcomes,” he said.

claim for all employers to provide free RATs

Chief Medical Officers and it’s disappointing,

“That’s why the Morrison Government has

to their employees once supply issues are

to say the least, to see the unions out fear-

worked with the states and the territories

resolved, in addition to upgraded masks

mongering, stoking fear in the community

through national cabinet to change the

and improved ventilation, fails to take into

– telling falsehoods. No one is talking about

isolation rules to ensure that if you are

account that the measures that are reasonably

letting it rip. What we’re saying is that

asymptomatic and you haven’t tested positive,

practicable to address WHS risks will differ

Omicron is a new phase of the pandemic, and

that you can get back to work and you can

from workplace to workplace.”

hundreds of thousands of people are getting

play an important role, whether it’s in the DC,

One size, according to Willox, does not fit all.

the virus like myself and they may need to

the distribution centre I was at yesterday in

“Employers in consultation with their workers

isolate.”

Laverton with Coles, or here at the trucking

are responsible for ensuring the work health

Frydenberg demonstrated his interest and

business or many other businesses across the

and safety of their employees and they take

commitment to the road transport industry

this responsibility very seriously,” he said.

supply chain.”

On the subject of free tests from Government,

“The legislation requires that employers

by participating in a conversation with Assistant Treasurer, Michael Sukkar, Victorian

assess risks and implement effective controls.

Transport Association CEO, Peter Anderson,

for businesses to help them test their staff.

Appropriate controls will differ from

Glen Cameron of Glen Cameron Group and

“I know the business I’m at right now has

workplace to workplace depending upon the

reporter, Fiona Willan, at a Cameron’s site in

ordered tests and is providing it to its staff,”

nature of the employer’s operations and other

Bayswater North on 18 January 2022.

he said. “Yesterday, at Coles, they were

factors.

Sukkar emphasised to the whole team at

providing rapid antigen tests to their staff.

“While of course workers cannot be

Cameron’s just how grateful the Government

There are businesses that are providing those

required to work in an unsafe situation, the

is to those working in the supply chains.

tests to their staff. But, as I said, if you are

ACTU’s threats of work stoppages are not

“It’s probably not something Australians have

sick, or you’re showing the symptoms of

appropriate. Also ‘cookie cutter’ approaches

thought of in great deal previously, but there’s

Covid, you can turn up at a state clinic right

to controlling Covid-19 risks in workplaces are

a great deal of gratitude that we all have for

away and get tested at no cost to yourself.

not helpful.

this industry,” he said. “And the dedication

We have to recognise the rapid antigen tests

“Instead of issuing edicts from afar that

and hard work of the men and women at

inflame the situation, add to uncertainty and

places just like Cameron Group is something

are one piece of a much broader jigsaw here, and we are providing support right

which, if adopted would make things worse

we’re very grateful for.”

across the board including funding these

for employers, employees and the economy,

Anderson said it was important for industry to

tests. So far with respect to PCR tests, we, as

we should allow employers to continue to

be recognised for the value it contributes to

a Commonwealth, have put in $2.5 billion

calmly take sensible measures to maintain

society and communities.

already; 53 million tests have been provided.

Covid safe workplaces.”

“We’re grateful that the Federal Government

We’ve been picking up the tab for the

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg recently

is actually recognising this importance and

Medicare tests in full and then we’re going

commented on the unions’ demands for

is actually doing something about what is

50–50 with the states on the state clinics.

businesses to provide free RATs.

needed to ensure that the companies that

We’ve been providing tests right through from

He told media that while some employers will

deliver the goods to all of us remain viable

the start of this pandemic.”

16

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Frydenberg confirmed tests were being ordered

Technology workers to benefit from $60M academy The establishment of a new academy

Accenture, MTX, Cognizant and Deloitte,

“Increasing digital skills and capabilities is

offering cyber related education and

are already investing in Adelaide and are

crucial to drive innovation and productivity

training is expected to deliver a pipeline

seeking to employ large workforces to

in South Australia, while enabling our

of professionals to meet rapidly growing

meet their business needs.

businesses to remain internationally

labour demand across a range of sectors.

Premier of South Australia, Steven

competitive.”

The Digital Technologies Academy, which

Marshall, said a dedicated digital

Next steps for the project include

has been given the green light by the

technologies training academy is a game-

detailed project scoping with a view to

Federal and South Australian governments

changer for South Australian tech and

commencing construction in late 2023.

under the Adelaide City Deal, will

cyber jobs.

The Adelaide City Deal is a 10-year

complement and support the strategy

“At a time where more and more high-

partnership between the Australian and

of establishing Lot Fourteen as a global

tech jobs are coming online here in South

South Australian governments and the

innovation and technology precinct.

Australia, it’s absolutely vital we can train

City of Adelaide to deliver $699 million of

Deloitte Access Economics forecasts the

the talent to take these jobs,” he said.

new government investment in Adelaide

number of technology workers in Australia

“South Australia is unashamedly the

with an aim to grow Adelaide’s innovation

will pass one million in 2024.

space, defence and cyber state – it’s my

By 2026, there will be nearly 300,000

aim to create a pipeline of jobs in these

economy.

Trailer will be watching this space with

more technology workers in the Australian

industries so we can put the brain-drain

keen interest as innovation in technology

workforce. A number of world-leading

behind us and be the country’s beacon for

is spawning new industries and services

digital technology firms, including

major companies in these areas.

that complement trailer manufacturing.

NEWS

Big intermodal plans in Little River A new intermodal container terminal

– a critical corridor in the national supply

corridor, mean a terminal cannot be

west of the Port of Melbourne is being

chain – where approximately three million

delivered in time to meet industry needs

developed to deliver more freight volumes.

tonnes of containerised freight is hauled

and ahead of completion of the Inland Rail

Rail freight business, Pacific National,

annually by rail from Melbourne, to

in 2027,” he said.

is investing in this plan to connect

Adelaide, and then across the Nullarbor to

Scurrah said a proposed terminal at

Melbourne’s major freight zone in the west

Perth.

Beveridge 55-kilometres north of

to Inland Rail.

Pacific National CEO, Paul Scurrah, said the

“Pacific National is investing heavily in

Melbourne’s CBD and port would derail

an extensive national terminal strategy

government plans to shift more freight

company had secured an option over a large

in response to surging customer demand

from trucks to trains.

540-hectare site to construct the terminal

for containerised interstate rail freight

“Containers picked up by trucks and

and develop a surrounding logistics precinct

services,” he said.

hauled from the port or a warehouse

on the existing interstate rail corridor west

“The coronavirus pandemic accelerated the

in Melbourne’s western freight zone

of Melbourne’s CBD and port.

“Pacific National’s new Little River site is

trend towards online shopping and created

will simply travel up the Hume Freeway

disruptions and delays in road and shipping

(M31),” he said.

in a prime position on the main interstate

operations, creating greater demand for

“It will always be cheaper for those large

rail line and close to the Princes Freeway,

rail freight services.”

trucks loaded with freight to keep going,

delivering efficient freight transport

Scurrah said Pacific National is securing

drive past the gates of a terminal in

connectivity to nearby logistics companies,

key sites along the Inland Rail alignment

Beveridge and deliver their goods by road

distribution centres, warehouses, shippers,

to unlock benefits of the project and haul

across the state border into NSW.”

and manufacturers,” he said.

greater containerised volumes by rail not

Scurrah said an intermodal container

“Close to Melbourne’s freight centre of

only between Melbourne and Brisbane but

terminal in Little River will complement a

gravity, Pacific National’s plans for Little

also from Australia’s east coast to Western

future WIFT in Truganina – both helping

River will help to shift more freight from

Australia.

to service Melbourne’s growing western

road to rail until delivery of the Western

“As Australia’s most trusted logistics

freight zone.

Interstate Freight Terminal (WIFT).”

partner we deliver what matters for our

Scurrah said Pacific National is investing

customers, including investing in new and

“The $15 billion Inland Rail project is

$20 million to secure land options in

improved rail freight infrastructure to help

forecast to accelerate growth of container

Little River and commence detailed

reduce traffic congestion, road accidents,

freight volumes on the interstate rail

planning and design works, with the aim

and emissions in the overall national supply

network to more than one million TEUs by

for an 80-hectare intermodal terminal

chain,” he said.

2035, making it critical for the Australian

to be operational by 2026 and directly

In recent years, Pacific National has

and Victorian governments to work closely

supporting more than 200 frontline rail

invested $35 million to deliver regional

together to deliver a future WIFT,” he said.

freight jobs.

Australia’s largest intermodal terminal at

Scurrah said customers are on board with

“In the future, the broader logistics

Parkes in the Central West of New South

a Little River terminal as they increasingly

precinct – serviced by the rail terminal

Wales and secured Acacia Ridge Terminal

understand and appreciate the safety and

– will feature extensive warehousing,

in South East Queensland via a $205

environmental benefits of hauling large

cold storage, and re-fuelling facilities,

million acquisition – both are located on

volumes of freight by rail.

generating more than 4,000 skilled jobs,”

the alignment of the future Melbourne-

“By using our services, 400 Pacific National

he said.

Brisbane Inland Rail.

Pacific National’s Little River site is located

Scurrah said several government-sponsored

customers enjoy immediate and strong ESG performance metrics and credentials,

near Melbourne’s major freight catchment

studies confirmed the best location for

including being part of freight services

zone to the west of the CBD, where

a major Victorian interstate rail terminal

which help reduce traffic congestion,

more than 70 per cent of containerised

was west of Melbourne’s CBD and port, in

road accidents and fatalities, and vehicle

rail volumes are concentrated, and

Truganina, rather than to the north.

emissions,” he said. “Road freight

conveniently only 39 kilometres by rail to

“Unfortunately delays and funding blocks

produces 14 times greater accident costs

the Port of Melbourne.

in progressing the WIFT option, including

than rail freight per tonne kilometre and

Scurrah said a Little River terminal would

the proposed enabling infrastructure called

up to 16 times more carbon pollution as

better service the major east-west market

the Outer Metropolitan Ring transport

rail freight per tonne kilometre.”

18

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Toll spearheads supply chain leadership Thomas Knudsen, Managing Director of

or into nearby countries, diversifying

Toll Group, recently spoke about adapting

suppliers and boosting inventory.

in the face of supply chain disruption.

Onshoring is particularly appealing to

Industrial action port-side in the US and

small business, with 30 per cent of those

Australia, increased quarantine periods

surveyed considering it as an option to

in China leading up to the Lunar New

improve their resilience.

Year in February and turnaround failures

To equip for future challenges, businesses

leaving about 12 per cent of the world’s

need to understand and respond to

containers sitting idle were the main pain

this trend, along with three other major

points mentioned in conversation with

transformations:

Fairfax Media.

Firstly, e-commerce is creating pressures

Knudsen also pointed to an ageing truck

and opportunities. Driven by Asia’s

driver population (particularly in the US) as

e-commerce boom, consumers expect

another challenge to contend with in the

their goods delivered more quickly and

global supply chain.

reliably than ever. Businesses will need to

There is a myth, Knudsen explained,

understand, meet, and exceed customer

where people think one part of the supply

expectations that are shaped by a diverse

chain can be fixed to resolve the issue.

Instead, many inefficiencies have come together and are now working against

range of platforms across the region.

Toll Group Managing Director, Thomas Knudsen.

each other.

Second, businesses that invest now in new technologies, such as automation, smart sensors, and data analytics, will be better

Knudsen asserted Toll’s forwarding

“The Covid-19 pandemic, rising

prepared to integrate with rapidly evolving

and logistics base will remain strong

geopolitical tensions and extreme weather

regional distribution networks.

in Australia. He added problems in

events have put supply chains globally

Thirdly, evolving consumer expectations

Australian warehouses often begin in

under strain,” said Asialink Chair, Peter

around environmental sustainability and

factories offshore, so if you only focus on

Varghese.

social impact will continue to change how

Australia’s supply chain it won’t fix the

“To remain competitive in our increasingly

problem.

competitive region, business will have to

businesses engage suppliers in the region.

For example, over 70 per cent of surveyed

This global focus will see Toll increase its

invest more in resilient and sustainable

businesses identified both modern

efforts in Asia through a four-year plan

supply chains to meet the shifting

slavery and reducing carbon emissions as

which includes investing $850 million into

needs of customers in Australia and

significant concerns for their customers.

fleet and warehouse assets.

internationally.”

The research found that adoption of

Research launched earlier this year

Businesses like Toll, are taking steps to

new technology – such as the Internet of

from Asialink Business, supported by

adapt transport and logistics operations

Things, data analytics, Artificial Intelligence

Toll, analysed structural pressures on

across Australia and the Asia Pacific.

(AI) and Machine Learning – are critical

supply chains, arguing that technology,

“Businesses face a challenge to transform

to supply chain transformation. However,

innovation and e-commerce would be key

legacy supply chains for the future,” said

Australian business needs to accelerate the

to building sustainable and resilient supply

Knudsen.

uptake of technologies that impact their

networks.

“But we also have a unique window of

The research, which included a survey of

opportunity to reorganise and become

supply chain or risk being left behind.

This is particularly acute for small/medium

businesses across Australia and the region,

more adaptive and inter-operable with

business. The survey revealed that 27 per

found that supply chain uncertainty is

partners in the region.

cent of medium business, and just 13 per

hitting small business hardest. Thirty-two

“With supply chains across Asia

cent of small business are investing in AI

per cent of small businesses surveyed said

fundamental to businesses in Australia

for supply chains, compared with 42 per

restrictions on business could threaten

and beyond, agile planning is critical to

cent of big business.

their operations, compared to 15 per cent

future business success.”

In September 2021, Toll Group

of medium-sized businesses and 8.0 per

The research identified a trend towards

successfully divested its global express

cent of large businesses.

moving production back home (onshoring)

business unit to Allegro. www.trailermag.com.au

19

NEWS

Linfox celebrates Healthy Fox award win Transport and logistics company, Linfox, has

SafetyCulture, commended Linfox’s

Linfox Logistics Australia and New Zealand,

won the Best Wellbeing Award at the National

introduction of the Moving Mindz initiative

Mark Mazurek.

Safety Awards of Excellence.

during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“It is also a reflection on the people who bring

Hosted for the past 28 years by the National

The innovative mental wellbeing and

our ‘be safer’ message to life every day for the

Safety Council of Australia (NSCA), the

movement program was designed to

benefit of our team members, as part of our

National Safety Awards of Excellence

encourage connection and physical exercise

Leading the Way 2025 business strategy.

recognise organisations and people that

in a particularly challenging time, and led to

“I would like to acknowledge the work of

actively promote workplace health and

significant improvements in overall wellbeing,

our Healthy Fox team and those who support

safety as a cornerstone of their business

increased mood and sleep quality, weight loss

them, including the Safety, Health and

performance.

and reduced loneliness.

Wellbeing team, Healthy Fox site champions

The Best Wellbeing Program recognises an

Linfox’s commitment to corporate and

and mental health first aiders across our

innovative health and wellbeing program

social responsibility through the Healthy

operations.”

that has resulted in improvements within an

Fox program was also recognised, including

Linfox has amplified its approach to safety,

organisation.

ongoing partnerships and support for

health and wellbeing during the pandemic

On receiving the award at a luncheon in

foundations such as Australian Red Cross

in response to the pressure on transport and

Sydney on Wednesday 8 December, Linfox

Lifeblood, White Ribbon, DonateLife, PanKind,

logistics workers during extremely challenging

was commended for its Healthy Fox program,

Movember and Ovarian Cancer Australia.

conditions. This includes support as founding

which was launched in 2014 to connect team

“This NSCA Best Wellbeing Program Award

members of the launch of Healthy Heads and

members with tools and resources to make

is a wonderful endorsement of Linfox’s

Trucks & Sheds foundation, and the relaunch

healthy mental and physical lifestyle choices.

commitment to safety, health and wellbeing

of Linfox’s employee assistance program, now

Best Wellbeing Program award sponsor,

through our Healthy Fox program,” said CEO

called LEAP.

WA fleet pioneers autonomous triple road train project A mining services company in Western

providing innovative and low-cost mining

our capability to provide full pit-to-ship, low-

Australia is leading the charge in autonomous

services solutions,” said MRL Chief Executive,

cost infrastructure solutions.”

road train innovation.

Mike Grey.

In 2021, MRL reported positive financial

In partnership with an automation specialist,

“In recent years, we have implemented a

results for the year ended 30 June 2021.

Mineral Services (MRL) is developing

number of new technologies which have

Iron ore exports as well as spodumene exports

autonomous road trains to bolster its

enhanced the safety and operational efficiency

were both up 23 per cent. Producing volumes

infrastructure supply chain solution which

of our long-distance road train haulage

for Mining Services were up 20 per cent.

is reported to be key to unlocking stranded

fleet, reducing the risks of driver fatigue and

For the reported period, the company

tonnes in the Pilbara.

increasing fleet availability. The autonomous

generated EBITDA of $1,901 million

The plan is to run 425-tonne Gross

road trains will take us to the next level again.

which was up 148 per cent on the prior

Combination Mass (GCM) triple road trains in

They provide a safe, cost-efficient solution

corresponding period.

convoys of five trucks each to haul ore from a

for hauling ore, which is key to unlocking

Underlying net profit after tax was $1,103

mine site to the Port of Ashburton.

stranded tonnes in the Pilbara.

million which was up 230 per cent on the

A pilot project is underway at MRL’s Yilgarn

“Being part of the MRL Group, our Mining

prior corresponding period.

operations using 385-tonne GCM triple road

Services division is in a really good position to

This full-year result, according to MRL

trains tailored for iron ore and other bulk

trial all of our new technologies on our own

Managing Director, Chris Ellison, was the

commodities. Testing will continue over the

mine sites prior to offering additional services

culmination of continued strong growth in the

next two years, ramping up to 425-tonne

to our customers. Our autonomous road

company’s Mining Services division.

GCM in time for the Ashburton Hub Project.

trains, combined with our other innovations,

MRL services the mining industry with a focus

“MRL has always been at the forefront of

are all part of our growth strategy to expand

on the iron ore and hard-rock lithium sector.

20

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Mondiale VGL acquires the largest international freight forwarder in SA Supply chain business, Mondiale VGL, is consolidating its national presence and expanding its service capabilities following

Mondiale VGL Director, George Schirato, CAS Directors Louise Rigoni and Mark Callus, Mondiale VGL COO, Chris James.

its latest acquisition.

The acquisition of South Australian customs and logistics operation, Customs Agency Services (CAS), is expected to build further scale in the Australasian market for Mondiale VGL. CAS, founded in 1976, is reported to specialise in international and domestic freight forwarding, customs brokerage, third-party warehousing and logistics and customs advice for defence, aerospace and e-commerce sectors.

It is also said to be the largest international freight forwarder in South Australia.

The combined group will handle more than 500,000 containers and 25 million kilograms of air freight per annum, employing more than 1,500 people globally in freight forwarding, customs clearance, wharf transport, and warehousing.

“The Customs Agency Services business will consolidate our national footprint and give us access to the highly strategic

segments or which bring critical mass in

and globally.

defence and e-commerce industry

key markets where we seek to further

“This is good news for our customers

verticals, creating significant cross-selling

increase our presence,” he said.

who will benefit from greater access

opportunities across our business,” said

“This is an inflection point for our

to contested space for both sea and

Mondiale VGL CEO, Ray Meade.

business, enabling us to accelerate our

air cargo with access to a full suite of

“Having worked with CAS in various

growth ambitions with a highly regarded

integrated services providing them even

forms for more than a decade, we

national provider that is recognised as

greater control and visibility of their supply

have a deep respect for its people and

the largest, privately-owned international

chain,” they said.

the customer-centric focus embedded

freight forwarding and logistics company

Earlier this year, VISA Global Logistics and

throughout the business. CAS will

in our region,” said Customs Agency

Mondiale Freight Services Limited agreed

continue to operate as a stand-alone

Services Principals Mark Callus and Louise

to merge to form a significant entity in

business within our broader group and

Rigoni.

international transport and logistics. The

operate under the same CAS name and

“Fundamentally, we believe that scale in

merged company, Mondiale VGL, was

existing team.

logistics has become a critical factor in

reported to have a combined annual

“Growth by acquisition is an important

remaining relevant and competitive in our

revenue of $1.2 billion, with operations

part of our strategy to build scale in our

industry. Becoming a part of the Mondiale

across Australia, New Zealand, North Asia,

business and acquire companies that

VGL Group will bring significant scale and

South East Asia, Indian Sub-Continent and

deliver either unique access to key market

capability to our operations in Australasia

Europe. www.trailermag.com.au

21

NEWS

Primary Connect to service Endeavour Group with new facility Woolworths Group’s supply chain arm

“We carry more than 4,000 different

deliver improved service to their store

– Primary Connect – has commenced

products in our NSW stores from hundreds

teams,” said Primary Connect Acting

construction of a new liquor distribution

of suppliers, stocking everything from craft

Managing Director, Chris Brooks.

centre in Western Sydney.

beer and small batch spirits to award-

“It’s a major commercial agreement for

The 35,000-square-metre Kemps Creeks

winning wines.

Primary Connect, which recognises the

Liquor Distribution Centre (DC) will be

“This purpose-built facility will help make

scale and capability we can offer to external

located at 2 Aldington Road, Kemps Creek

the movement of goods easier for our

partners.

in the strategically located Oakdale West

suppliers and simpler for our stores.

“Importantly, the project will also deliver

Industrial Estate.

“It will also ensure our customers can

hundreds of new jobs in the fast-growing

The DC will be managed by Primary

continue to rely on us to find a wide variety

Western Sydney Aerotropolis.”

Connect and service more than 400 Dan

of drinks to discover and support our

At full capacity, more than 475,000 cartons

Murphy’s and BWS outlets and ALH hotels

purpose of creating a more sociable future

will move through the Kemps Creek Liquor

across New South Wales under a partnership

together.”

DC each week bringing Endeavour Group

agreement with Endeavour Group.

The site is expected to start operations

customers products from more than 300

“We’re excited about the development

in 2022 and will provide employment for

suppliers.

of a bespoke drinks distribution centre in

around 230 people. A further 200 jobs will

It will replace the current Erskine Park

Western Sydney,” said Endeavour Group

be supported during construction.

Liquor DC, which will be converted into an

General Manager Supply Chain, Angus

“We’re delighted to partner with Endeavour

ambient grocery facility for Woolworths

McFadyen.

Group on a brand new development to

Supermarkets.

Work commences on the build of a distribution centre in Western Sydney.

22

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Changes underway to bolster struggling supply chain workforce More must be done to open up road train access around the country.

The Australian transport, freight and logistics

the transport, freight and logistics sector,” he

forward and these changes will support our

sector has welcomed the National Cabinet’s

continued.

industry, the sector knows that there is no

decision to relieve pressures on the industry’s

“We cannot keep the economy functioning

silver bullet. As the Prime Minister said today,

workforce.

and Australia moving, without a strong

we are recalibrating our approach regularly,”

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight

transport, freight and logistics sector and the

said Smith.

Transport, Scott Buchholz said the changes

workforce,” said Buchholz.

“We will continue to explore entrepreneurial

from the latest National Cabinet meeting

“These changes will help address some of

ways, alongside state and federal government

were the result of Government working with

the pressures industry has been telling us

initiatives, through the National Cabinet

and listening to the needs of industry.

about and will enable critical workers to get

process, which support the industry during

“Throughout this pandemic we have worked

back to work. We are encouraged by the

this pandemic.

closely with the transport and freight industry,

increase in people returning to work from

“I want to acknowledge the Prime Minister

including peak bodies and the Federal

the previous changes made to close contact

Scott Morrison and Assistant Minister Scott

Government has today acted swiftly and

classifications.”

Buchholz for the work they have done on

decisively,” he said in a statement to media.

Despite hospitals nearing breaking point

supply chain issues.

“Following today’s [14 January 2022]

from loss of staff who have quit or become ill

“Workforce shortages were a problem pre-

announcement, transport operators that

Buchholz continued to push for vaccinations,

pandemic and the new driver apprenticeship

have a driver who was previously deemed a

encouraging uptake for the latest booster

announced last year is a longer-term

close contact, if they are non-symptomatic

shot.

approach, right now we need to find

and return a negative test – they can leave

“We are aware other pressures exist but we

more non-traditional means of support

isolation, return to work behind the wheel

are optimistic about the changes being made

and I acknowledge the work the Federal

and keep supplies moving,” said Buchholz.

and we will keep working with industry and

Government has undertaken to address the

Buchholz echoed statements made this week

working to get the balance right,” he said.

issues and shortages pertaining to AdBlue

by State Premiers and the Prime Minister in

Chairman of the Australian Trucking

supplies for the nation.

reiterating policy had been shaped around

Association, David Smith has welcomed the

“The ATA will continue to work closely with

protecting hospitals and ensuring both society

Prime Minister’s announcement today and

its members, state and federal governments

and the economy continued to function.

agreed there is more work to do.

– to bring certainty to the national supply

“This is recognition of the critical nature of

“Whilst the ATA agrees it is a great step

chain.” www.trailermag.com.au

23

NEWS

Construction starts on John Peterson Bridge replacement Works to replace the John Peterson Bridge

safety benefits.

“As part of the upgrade, safety upgrades will

over the Boyne River have commenced.

“The replacement works will improve the

be undertaken at Hawkwood and Beeron

The $25 million project is jointly funded

bridge’s flood immunity to withstand a

Roads intersections in addition to tying in the

through the federal Roads of Strategic

one-in-100-year flood and maintain network

new road alignment.

Importance initiative, with the Australian

connectivity on this important freight route.

“It’s through projects like this that the

Government providing $20 million and the

“As well as being built at a higher level, the

Palaszczuk Government is delivering to the

Queensland Government contributing $5

new bridge will reduce the need for ongoing

regions, as part of our record $25.7 billion

million.

maintenance and the posted speed limit will

road and transport plan.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for

be raised at the crossing from 60 km/h to 100

Queensland Assistant Regional Roads

Infrastructure, Transport and Regional

km/h upon completion.”

Minister, Bruce Saunders, said the new bridge

Development, Barnaby Joyce, said the new

Queensland Transport and Main Roads

would be built while drivers continued to use

concrete bridge on Mundubbera-Durong

Minister, Mark Bailey, said the new bridge

the existing bridge.

Road would feature two lanes, guardrails and

would bring peace of mind to locals,

“We want to make sure there is as little

safer road approaches.

delivering a reliable connection over the

disruption to drivers as possible while the

“The project involves replacing the low-

Boyne River during the wet season.

new bridge is built,” said Saunders. “Locals

level, timber bridge with a higher, wider and

“The new John Peterson Bridge will be built

will notice construction underway, with

longer concrete bridge on a safer, straighter

about 500 metres west of the existing bridge

traffic controllers in place between 6 am and

alignment,” said Joyce.

by Queensland Bridge and Civil,” said Bailey.

6 pm daily. Construction is expected to be

“The community has called for a replacement

“At this location, the new bridge will be on a

complete by early-2023 and we thank locals

bridge and we’re pleased to be able to deliver

straighter and safer alignment, shortening the

for their patience while this important work is

these improved long-term structural and

route for drivers by about 700 metres.

undertaken.”

AusPost announces new retail boss Australia Post has confirmed the

the bank’s Retail Division while reshaping

ANZ Bank, Catriona has the right skills,

appointment of a former ANZ Bank and

the footprint of the bank’s branch

personality and energy to grow and evolve

McDonald’s Corporation senior executive

network.

our Post Office network.”

as its new Executive General Manager of

Australia Post Group Chief Executive

Noble’s appointment is the latest in

Retail.

Officer & Managing Director Paul Graham

a number of recent executive-level

Catriona Noble will report to Group

said Noble’s appointment reflected the

appointments at Australia Post.

Chief Executive Officer & Managing

vital role the Post Office network plays at

In January, Leonie Valentine commences as

Director Paul Graham while overseeing

Australia Post.

the Executive General Manager Customer

the organisation’s network of 4,320 Post

“Over the past two years, we have seen

Experience and Digital and in December

Offices.

how important our Post Office network

Tanny Mangos joined as Executive General

Noble spent 31 years with the McDonald’s

has been in helping small businesses,

Manager of Community, Sustainability

Corporation, where she helped expand

connecting communities and building

and Stakeholder Engagement.

the restaurant chain throughout

resilience,” he said.

The appointments, according to a

the region, with a focus on product

“Our Licensed Post Offices as well as our

statement issued by Australia Post, reflect

development, customer advocacy and

Corporate Post Offices provide essential

Graham’s commitment to ensuring

collaborating closely with franchisees.

services for mail, parcels, financial services

Australia Post is delivering for its

She worked her way through all facets

plus an expanding range of other services

stakeholders and is well placed with the

of the business and served as the CEO of

for the community,” said Graham.

right skills and strategy to ensure Australia

McDonald’s Australia from 2010 to 2014.

“With her extensive customer experience

Post is able to fully meet customers’

At ANZ, she drove the transformation of

working at McDonald’s Corporation and

expectations now and into the future.

24

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

RAT pricing impacts supply chain Disparity in the retail price of the Rapid

within workforces and at the retailer level,

be funded in line with existing National

Antigen Test (RAT) in Australia is being

there is significant difficulty forecasting

Partnership Agreement on the Covid-19

investigated by the nation’s competition

accurate supply.”

Response.

watchdog.

From 7 January 2022, the average and the

Anti-hoarding measures with the Pharmacy

Access to efficient, affordable testing is

highest prices reported to the ACCC have

Guild of Australia and other major retailers

essential to keep everyone, including all

increased to around $24 and $80 to $100

that stock RATs were implemented.

supply chain participants, safe and Covid

respectively. The highest price reported for a

Price gouging, as defined by National

compliant.

single test is $100. Some of the higher prices

Cabinet, is offering or supplying essential

The Australian Competition & Consumer

relate to reports of selling through online

goods at a price that is more than 120

Commission (ACCC) is reviewing more than

marketplaces.

per cent of the initial price (a 20 per cent

1,800 reports from the public about the cost

“Only a few weeks ago tests were readily

markup) and penalties for not complying

of RATs and is concerned about excessive

available at most chemists and supermarkets

with this direction will range up to five years

pricing amid pandemic. These tests are used

for around $10 for a single test,” said Sims.

imprisonment and $66,000.

to diagnose illness and should be available at

“We realise demand and supply chain issues

reasonable prices.

have impacted since then, but our initial

Changes to testing requirements also came

RAT is reported to vary from $500 for two

research suggests that a price of around

into effect for Australia on 5 January with

tests online to more than $70 per test via

$20 per test or more, however packaged,

the exception of Western Australia which

convenience stores, service stations and

may be hard to justify based on the average

supermarkets. Other ranges include $20-

wholesale costs and such retailers should

included: • Removing the requirement for truck drivers

30 per test through smaller retail outlets,

explain why the price is so high.

while wholesale ranges between $3.95 and $11.45 a test.

“As supply chain issues ease and orders

ACCC Chair, Rod Sims, said this is clearly

tests at more reasonable prices.

outrageous and businesses have been

“Any test costing more than $30, even with

after a positive RAT. Individual states and

approached by the Commission to explain the

supply constraints, is almost certainly too

territories will provide further information

prices they are charging.

expensive and would seem to be taking

on how a positive RAT will be recorded.

The ACCC has contacted more than 40 test

advantage of the current circumstances.”

Anyone who tests positive is encouraged to

suppliers, major retailers and pharmacy chains

Meanwhile, Greg Twomey, President of the

seeking information about their costs, current

Pharmacy Guild of Australia, aims to launch a

pricing, and stock availability, and reminding

website next week to help people find stores

longer be required except for Queensland,

them they need to be able to substantiate

stocked with RATs after witnessing what

Tasmania and Western Australia, with

any claims they make to consumers about the

he believes to be a market failure following

Queensland and Tasmania to review these

reasons for higher prices.

instances of price gouging.

requirements in the coming weeks. State

“The supply chain is often complex, with

On 5 January 2022, National Cabinet noted

testing clinics will not be able to be used for

several businesses involved from the

that Covid-19 tests are free and available

initial supply to the retail sale of tests to

at state testing clinics for people who have

consumers,” said Sims.

symptoms or are a close contact. It agreed

travellers will not be required except

“Retailers operating under the same brand

that up to 10 RATs over three months (a

for Queensland, who will review this

or chain may be setting prices and selling

maximum of five in a month) will be made

requirement when they reach 90 per cent

tests independently of the other stores in the chain.

available for free from pharmacies to

double vaccination rate.

“This means the wholesale and resulting retail

Commonwealth Seniors Health Care Card,

Three million free RATs arrived in Victoria this

prices can vary significantly.

Department of Veteran’s Affairs Gold, White

week. The Victorian Government has received

“Our inquiries so far confirm that a large

or Orange Card, Health Care Card or Low

its first bulk delivery with another 41 million

volume of orders have been placed. However,

Income Health Card.

on the way. Victorians working in essential

given delays in the supply of tests, or test

About 10 million RATs were also being

services as well as those with pre-existing

parts, into Australia, delays in distribution

allocated to states and territories to assist

health conditions will take priority in this

due to Covid illness or isolation requirements

with testing and laboratory capacity to

latest rollout.

arrive, consumers should be able to access

to have rolling seven days tests.

• Testing will not be required before patients present to hospital.

• Confirmation PCR test will not be required

contact their GP for support as required.

• Testing before interstate travel will no

interstate travel purposes.

• A second post arrival test for international

people holding Pension Concession Card,

www.trailermag.com.au

25

ECONOMY

Linfox backs Government’s push to centralise freight data A NATIONAL LOCATION REGISTRY IS REPORTED TO ENSURE AUSTRALIAN PRODUCE CAN BE TRANSPORTED MORE EFFICIENTLY AND LINFOX IS IN ALIGNMENT WITH GOVERNMENT ON THIS INITIATIVE. Industry’s appetite for increased supply

Communications understood the potential

distributors, the Registry will reduce some

chain visibility continues to grow, with

and provided pilot funding. The pilot

of the hassle and time it takes to get their

location master data identified as a critical

helped demonstrate the publication,

products to where they need to go.

gap to achieving this. With no industry

storage, retrieval and exchange of location

“Right across the country the collection

service/solution to fill that gap, location

master data. It provided a precursor to

and exchange of information about

master data today is non-existent in any

establishing a National Location Registry

physical locations is all too often a manual

digitalised framework.

for the Australian Freight & Logistics

process, which is costly to maintain and

At industry’s request, a Steering

industry.

can lead to errors.

Committee was established in August

The Steering Committee accepted pilot

“The Registry solves this problem by

2019; the Department of Infrastructure,

findings and recommendation to proceed

creating one digital platform which

Transport, Regional Development and

to build the National Location Registry.

supplies logistics providers with all the

This new digital tool provides a one-stop

information they need.

shop of pick-up and delivery location

“This will make life easier for the more

information to support truck operators to

than 50,000 small businesses involved

get goods to businesses and consumers.

in Australia’s road freight sector. These

How the National Location

This includes operating hours, weight and

businesses can now encourage location

Registry works

height restrictions for vehicles, entry points,

owners to list their pick-up spots and other

Location Data Providers – the owners

driver amenities and safety requirements

important information on this one Registry,

or custodians of their locations provide

for each site.

saving time and effort.”

data to the registry – provide data

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and

once and make it available to many.

Infrastructure, Transport and Regional

Freight Transport, Scott Buchholz, said

Development, Barnaby Joyce, said the

the Registry was kickstarted by industry

National Location Registry will make it

and for industry, with the support of the

access to their location data based

easier and quicker for freight operators to

Government, to deliver the data our freight

on data recipient requests or can

pick-up and deliver goods and take some

industry needs to thrive and reach new

elect to make it public.

of the stress out of their day-to-day work.

heights.

• Location Data Providers control

• Location Data Recipients request

“Every Australian, everywhere, every day

“Industry participants are household names

access to location data or can search

relies on freight,” he said.

including Woolworths, Coles, Sanitarium,

data that is publicly available.

“The National Location Registry will benefit

PepsiCo, Toll, Linfox and Australia Post,”

us all by backing a more efficient supply

he said.

chain for our businesses and truckies.

“They have collectively brought centuries

“For farmers, manufacturers and

of experience in moving produce and

• All users of the registry must be registered.

goods to homes to make sure this Registry delivers real benefits for our truckies, farmers and businesses.

“For example, a farmer that diversifies their plots to different crops and sets up a new processing shed can put this shed on the Registry so transport operators know exactly how to get in and pick up the produce to haul to markets.

“This will take some of the stress off our transport operators to find the new shed,

26

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

???%

3%

49.6%

INFLATION RATE SEPTEMBER 2021

SERVICES PMI NOVEMBER 2021

MANUFACTURING PRODUCTION JUNE 2021

ensure the produce is picked up quickly

collective knowledge and data with their

their data. Businesses are encouraged to

and smoothly, and means the farmer

customers, the Australian Government and

register their location and encourage their

doesn’t have to give this information each

other transport providers.

suppliers and transport providers to use the

and every trip.

“As a trusted national supply chain partner,

Registry as well.

“That’s just one example of how this

our truck drivers visit thousands of sites,

The Registry is a key element of the

Registry is a win-win for the sector, so I

stores and locations around Australia

Australian Government’s broader

urge businesses to check it out and see

to collect and deliver goods for our

National Freight Data Hub project, a

how they can benefit – and make use of

customers,” he said.

$16.5 million investment to make a

the two-year promotion where it is free to join.”

“The National Location Registry offers

range of data available to support the

enormous potential to increase the

freight industry. This includes the recently

Linfox delivers more than $60 billion

efficiency of deliveries, and most

launched Supply Chain Benchmarking

in goods each year globally and Linfox

importantly, increase safety for our drivers,

Dashboard, which is providing detailed

Logistics Australia and New Zealand CEO,

our customers and our communities.”

and interactive modelling of Australian

Mark Mazurek, said he was excited by this

The Registry will grow and reach new

opportunity to work smarter by sharing

heights as supply chain participants add

transport and logistics supply chains across 130 commodities.

AUSTRALIAN CONSUMER CONFIDENCE

25

23 19

20

20

20

17 14

15

10

12

10

10

7

5

0 -5

-7 Jan 2021

Apr 2021

Jul 2021

-6 Oct 2021

www.trailermag.com.au

-10

27

TRAILER BUILDER

All Road holds the line with Vawdrey PLEASED WITH THE PERFORMANCE AND QUALITY OF THEIR VAWDREY TRAILERS, ALL ROAD TRANSPORT DIRECTORS GORAN LANGOVSKI AND KEVIN PAUL ORDERED MORE SETS OF RIGID TITELINERS TO MEET THE DEMANDS OF THEIR FAST-GROWING BUSINESS. Until March 2012 Goran and Kevin both

we have over 60 trucks including 25 linehaul

team now, and our operations run 24/7

owned and operated a couple of trucks each

trucks, 40 trailers, and a fleet of 30 odd local

service at the moment. We have over 70

when they decided to form one company –

trucks,” Kevin says.

drivers in the team and two mechanics in

All Road Transport. From operating out of

All Road specialises in transport of general,

Melbourne.”

their home garages they went out to open

refrigerated, express and sensitive freight

“Since the start we have been focused

their first warehouse in Derrimut, Victoria,

and local distribution. Each business division

on safety and compliance and have been

within six months of establishing the

is managed by a team of experienced staff

investing heavily in both those aspects,”

company. Their combined experience in the

that is equipped to offer custom freight and

Kevin says. “Our fleet is meticulously

industry, the work ethic they fostered within

transport solutions from ad hoc to dedicated

maintained and each truck and trailer

the business and the level of reliability they

runs and short-notice jobs.

combination is fully equipped with all the

offered their clients has seen All Road grow

“Our linehaul side of operations have

necessary elements needed to handle all

leaps and bounds within a decade.

increased dramatically over the last few

kinds of jobs. Our fleet is also fitted with

“From running four trucks back then, today

years,” Goran says. “We have a bigger office

high-tech communication to maintain

28

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

smooth and safe operations.”

constantly hear about a problem or other.”

offered by the Vawdrey team, Goran and

Goran agrees. He says the standard of

Specialising in high quality and custom

Kevin are confident of their decision to

safety and compliance set by their team is

designed products, Vawdrey offers a range

choose Vawdrey for the next order.

the reason they go for products that tick

of Titeliner (curtainsider) models from rigid

“Our operations run 24x7 across the country

both those boxes for them. That was a

bodies, dog and pig trailers through to

– from eastern states to Northern Territory

key consideration for them to go back to

semi-trailer configurations. The Titeliner

and Western Australia,” Goran says. “We

Vawdrey for the new trailers.

range features several options such as flat

are looking to expand 30 per cent every

The first sets of Vawdrey Titeliners operate

deck, drop deck, double drop deck, triple

year on curtainsiders and refrigerated each

on the Melbourne to Sydney and Melbourne

drop deck, mezzanine decks, roll back leads,

and are currently looking to set up a new

to Brisbane routes, hauling a range of

load rated curtains, LatchLiner curtains, auto

distribution centre in Sydney. There have

general freight items to express parcels since

buckle-less curtains, lightweight steel gates,

been some challenges on our journey, but

2017.

aluminium gates, hanging gates, centre

Kevin and I are both very happy with our

Kevin and Goran agree that Vawdrey offer

gates, insulated refrigerated and more.

operations now. We’re happy with our fleet.

excellent customer support for the clients

The new Vawdrey Titeliners meet All Road’s

The Vawdrey trailers have been performing

so if anything goes wrong, they know that

high safety standards through a range

really well over time, we don’t encounter any

they have Vawdrey’s support, adding that

of features such as air-operated pop-up

major maintenance issues, they are built for

the quality of workmanship is such that the

coaming rail barriers to prevent a forklift

long-term use and also have a good resale

trailers don’t require persistent maintenance.

from careering off the side of the trailer

value. They use quality steel in their products

“The reason we keep buying Vawdrey is

during rear dock loading or unloading,

that results in a high-quality and dependable

because we don’t hear anything bad from

Super-Strap curtains, load rated to 1,430kg

trailer.”

our team about these trailers,” Goran says.

per pallet space, which eliminate the need

“Our mechanics and drivers have never

for gates in general freight applications, the

complained about any issues with them.

wedged-shaped roof that provides more

If there is a need to fix something on one

headroom as the trailer is loaded.

of these trailers, once you get it done it is

Having faith in the product reliability and

fixed properly, whereas on other trailers we

efficiency, and superior customer service

Contact Vawdrey Australia 1-53 Quantum Close Dandenong South VIC 3175 Ph: 03 9797 3700 Web: www.vawdrey.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

29

SPECIAL REPORT

By the numbers THE AVERAGE AGE FOR RIGID TRUCKS WAS FOUND TO EXCEED NINE YEARS, WHILE B-DOUBLES, BY COMPARISON, WERE THE NEWEST OF ALL INSPECTED VEHICLE CLASSES AVERAGING 5.5 YEARS. THERE IS MUCH TO GLEAN FROM THE NATIONAL HEAVY VEHICLE REGULATOR’S LATEST NATIONAL ROADWORTHINESS SURVEY RESULTS. The mechanical health of Australia’s heavy

the Australian Capital Territory documented

drive down the age of the fleet, such as

vehicle fleet improved in the lead-up to

the least at 226.

the NHVR’s Vehicle SETUP plan will be vital

last Christmas, according to data compiled

“In the last five years, we have seen the

going forward, as NRS:2021 again shows

by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

rate of non-conformities drop from 48 per

a strong link between vehicle age and

(NHVR), however rigid-bodied vehicles

cent of units inspected to 31 per cent,” said

mechanical safety.”

stood out from all other vehicle classes on

NHVR CEO, Sal Petroccitto.

the grounds of non-conformity.

“Importantly the most serious cases of

Key findings from the NRS:2021 survey

The results of the National Roadworthiness

major non-conformities and groundings

included:

Survey 2021 (NRS:2021) which inspected

has dropped from 12 per cent of inspected

The rate of all non-conformities had dropped

13,325 heavy vehicle units across 8,338

vehicles in 2016 to six per cent in 2021.

from the 48 per cent in 2016 to 31 per cent

heavy vehicle combinations in all Australian

“The continuing maturity of the industry in

in 2021.

states and territories between May and June

adopting better safety practices like whole

• The rate of major non-conformities and

showed significant improvements.

of business safety management systems

grounding halved to six per cent of vehicles

NRS:2021 was successfully conducted from

and daily safety checks have been a key

inspected; brakes remained the highest

5 May to 28 July 2021 without incident and

contributor in driving the downward trend.

non-conforming components – reducing

is reported to be the second survey of its

“While it highlights progress made due to

from 25 per cent in 2016 to 14 per cent

type following the National Roadworthiness

the hard work being undertaken to improve

Baseline Survey conducted in 2016 (which

and monitor the Australian heavy vehicle

inspected 11,066 units).

fleet, I’m determined as an industry that

conforming vehicle type at 38 per cent,

All jurisdictions including Western Australia

we continue to push on and ensure that

which has again reduced from 52 per cent

and Northern Territory participated in

Australia has one of the safest heavy vehicle

in 2016.

NRS:2021. New South Wales recorded the

fleets in the world.

most inspections per state at 3,327 whereas

“In particular programs that continue to

30

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

in 2021.

• Rigid trucks were the highest non-

• The average age of the inspected fleet was 10.2 years, compared to 9.2 years in 2016.

Petroccitto said the results would help

in 2016).

compliance will hopefully send a message

inform the regulator’s modern approach

Trailer heard in a conference with

to the trucking industry at large to obey

to regulation that uses intelligence to

Petroccitto on Tuesday 14 December that

the rules and ensure all road transport

address the greatest safety risks and keeps

the NHVR will address the issue of non-

equipment is fit for purpose. This is one

compliant operators moving.

conformity in rigid-bodied vehicles via

example of what a defect that had potential

“I’d also like to thank the NHVR staff

targeted and ongoing national educational

to cau

and staff from transport agencies across

campaigns.

A truck driver and trucking company were

Australia for their assistance in conducting

Meanwhile, trailer conformity nationally has

being investigated in November 2021 after

the survey, particularly with constantly

improved from 19 per cent to 30 per cent

a truck and trailer pulled into an arrester

changing operating condition due to local

which was broadly conistent across different

bed on the South Eastern Freeway in

Covid restrictions,” he said.

vehicle combinations from road trains (up

Adelaide.

“Despite the challenges, officers across all

13 per cent to 79 per cent) and semi-trailer

Officers from the SA Police Heavy Vehicle

states and territories inspected 17 per cent

(up 22 per cent to 69 per cent).

Enforcement Unit received reports from

more heavy vehicles in 2021, and through

motorists advising that a heavy vehicle

the use of technology and consistent

Case in point

had entered the arrester bed on the South

inspection systems we were able to reduce

Heavy vehicle safety compliance continues

Eastern Freeway at Leawood Gardens.

the average inspection time from the

to be a pain point for the industry and

When police arrived they located a rigid

from 45 minutes in 2016 to 31 minutes in

wider community. Through the diligent

truck and trailer combination on the

2021.”

work of the NHVR, the police and other

arrester bed.

Rigids topped the list for non-conformity by

parties, their combined efforts are making

Inspection of the truck identified that it had

vehicle type (38 per cent – 52 per cent in

the roads safer for everyone. Here is one

severely overheated brakes on all the axles.

2016), followed by semi-trailer (31 per cent

example of a situation where the electronic

The temperatures reached were that high

– 50 per cent in 2016), B-double/road train

brakes on a trailer were disconnected and

that they had started to burn and discolour

(24 per cent – 41 per cent in 2016), bus &

blocks of wood were used between the

coach (8.0 per cent – 30 per cent in 2016)

chassis and suspension.

the paint on the rims.

The trailer was also inspected and found

and plant & SPV (13 per cent – 29 per cent

The enforcement of heavy vehicle safety

to have an inoperative braking system. The www.trailermag.com.au

31

SPECIAL REPORT - RIGID BODIES

electronic brakes on the trailer had not been

on the South Eastern Freeway without the

the market’s ‘stellar’ sales performance in

connected and blocks of wood had been

use of a primary brake according to the

2021 according to Truck Industry Council

used between the chassis and suspension.

police.

(TIC). Australian truck and heavy van sales

The driver, a 33-year-old man from Victoria,

Both the truck and trailer were defected and

last year totalled 41,404 units which was

and the company – both unnamed in the

towed from the scene.

up 6,928 vehicles or more than 20 per cent

police media report – were being investigated

The arrestor beds, according to the Traffic

over 2020 sales (which were impacted by

for using an unsafe vehicle on the road,

Services Branch, are placed on the freeway to

Covid-19).

failing to keep and carry a work diary as

bring heavy vehicles to a stop in the event of

As 2021 drew to a close, some were

required and whether or not the driver used

brake failure or emergency.

predicting a new sales record and while

an appropriate gear whilst descending the

December 2021 sales were a new record,

South Eastern Freeway. It is a requirement of

A broader look at 2021 truck sales

with 3,528 truck and van sales for the

heavy vehicles to be driven in a low enough

Federal government financial incentives

month, the overall tally for 2021 fell a

gear to enable the vehicle to be driven safely

were a significant contributing factor to

mere 225 trucks short of a new Australian

32

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

being understandable, given the ongoing uncertain economic climate generated by the pandemic.

“After the struggles over the past two years, it was pleasing to see 2021 finish with near record sales,” said TIC CEO, Tony McMullan.

“This is testament to the hard work and resilience shown by all parts of the heavy road freight industry throughout the pandemic. However, there is no doubt that the leadership shown and financial incentives put in place by the federal government, has been the contributing factor in new truck sales last year. Overall, our economy is strong and that is no more evident than in the heavy vehicle sector.

“The past few weeks have again highlighted that the road ahead is neither clear, nor certain. Covid remains an issue that we need to continue to live with heavy vehicle sales record. Despite a close

cent lower than in 2018, as were medium

and manage. For TIC members, domestic

call that sales record is still held by 2018,

truck sales. Conversely, light truck and

and global supply chain issues look to

when 41,628 heavy vehicles were sold.

van sales were up by more than 10 per

be the greatest threat to new truck and

However, when the numbers are analysed

cent last year, when compared to sales

van supply over the next 24 months. This

in a little more detail, there are some

from 2018. This shows that while sales

situation will not be resolved quickly and

notable differences between 2021 sales

last year were at near record levels, the

whilst the federal government’s financial

and those of 2018. For example, the split

growth was at the bottom end of the

incentives remain in place for over a year,

between segments. In 2018, the market

heavy vehicle market, not at the top end.

TIC requests that government consider

was very much driven by the sale of heavy

This may be due, in part, to supply chain

extending the ‘delivery to market’ phase of

trucks. In 2021, the heavy truck sector was

issues effecting Heavy truck production,

these incentives. Thus allowing new trucks

much weaker. Rather, sales were driven

but more likely was a result of lacking

to be delivered into service for a period of

by light trucks and vans last year. Heavy

business confidence to renew the greater

one year, beyond the current deadline of

truck sales in 2021 were almost 10 per

value assets in their organisations. This

June 2023.” www.trailermag.com.au

33

RIGID BODIES

A 14-pallet Thermaxx body with a Thermo King T1200R.

B&E reaping max quality benefits from Thermaxx THE TEAM AT B&E FOODS IS VERY PEDANTIC ABOUT THE QUALITY OF ITS FLEET AND SO FAR, TRS THERMAXX BODIES HAVE TICKED ALL THE RIGHT BOXES FOR THE BUSINESS. B&E Foods is not only one of the largest

have already noticed a huge difference in

me all their different products and the

poultry processors in the country, it also

the quality of the panels. The truck body

different materials used to build a TRS

specialises in food supply and distribution.

is lighter than other similar brands in the

Thermaxx body. It gave me a very good

B&E has over 130 refrigerated vehicles

market which makes a big difference in the

operating daily service to a vast customer

tare weight for the trucks. Maintaining the

first impression. We focus on high quality products in our business and so does TRS.

base across Australia. Maintaining cold chain

right temperature is crucial for perishable

There is a huge difference between TRS and

integrity is paramount for the operation of

food transport and Thermaxx delivers on

its competitors and that’s why we believe we

a food distribution business and the team at

that aspect. Its temperature control has been

made the right decision to choose TRS as our

B&E are pedantic about the quality of their

great so far,” Edward says.

supplier,” he says.

fleet, according to company CEO, Edward

B&E’s CFO Alex Wang believes the quality of

Edward agrees that the team at B&E has

Dong.

Thermaxx bodies is outstanding compared

been thoroughly impressed by Thermaxx

When it comes to refrigerated bodies for

to its competitors and it was a key factor

bodies. Being in the food supply business,

their trucks, B&E trust TRS and Thermaxx.

in his team’s decision to choose TRS. “We

B&E uses a lot of pallets in the trucks and

Since 2020, all of the new truck bodies

got a chance to visit the TRS factory where

the high impact resistant panels by TRS are

purchased by B&E have been from TRS. “We

Ross Jones NSW Sales Manager showed

capable of withstanding the rigours of the

34

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

roads. “The design is good. There are no noticeable gaps between the corners which means the moisture from the meat and poultry doesn’t seep between the panels creating a risk for mould and bacteria that can damage the panels in the long run.

Food hygiene is absolutely paramount for us.

Having Thermaxx, we’re not worried about little edges not being sealed up properly.

We’re not worried about exposed panels.

We can clean the truck quite thoroughly and not worry too much about water trickling through the panels,” Edward says.

With long-term benefits in mind, B&E is slowly moving all its fleet to TRS as well. “If you buy a Thermaxx product it’ll last you a lot longer, maybe up to 10 years longer than

B&E Foods NSW head office and processing factory.

another brand. You might end up saving 10 percent on a cheaper alternative but in the end, it’s not going to last as long. After

Long life EPDM rubber seals.

a few years it starts breaking down and then you’re not really saving any money with costly repairs. You save a lot more with Thermaxx in the long run,” he says.

Alex says that when it comes to cost, he not only compares the initial cost but also the maintenance cost over the years, which is where TRS bodies outperform its competitors. “My calculation on the cost for the first five years is that you spend a bit more money on the TRS bodies in the first year, but if you talk about a total cost of maintaining the vehicle throughout the five years, your saving is going to be huge. Other competitors probably try to do the best in the price range to attract customers, but the truck body floors can be damaged in a

level of customisation their team offers

custom builds, TRS is there to help us. All

short period of time, so when you add that

to businesses like B&E. From doing the

our truck bodies have freezer and cooler

maintenance cost for all the truck bodies, it

truck body, to the Thermo King unit, and

compartments now so being able to

can cost a lot more. TRS would be one of the

managing servicing – all in one place results

custom-build something with TRS has been

best options out there,” he says.

Another reason for choosing TRS is the

in less hassle for customers. “Whether it

very easy. The product turns around very

is arranging a build appointment or doing

fast. We send the truck in and get it back almost right away. I think being a business operator, last thing you want is chasing different people to do servicing.

Having TRS provide a high-quality service for a high-quality product, it is great. You might pay a little bit more but in the long run it saves you all the headaches.”

Contact

Thermally insulated one piece rice grain bonded floor with mild steel tapping plates.

TRS Ph: 02 8822 8100 Web: www.trssservice.com.au Web: www.thermaxx.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

35

MOVING FLOOR

Moving materials with ease with Cargo Floor THE CARGO FLOOR MOVING FLOOR SYSTEM OFFERS THE TEAM AT PEARCE SMITH LOGISTICS GREATER PRODUCTIVITY AND VERSATILITY FOR THEIR RECYCLING TRANSPORT APPLICATION. It was seven years ago that Pearce Smith

having to tip.

as paper, cardboard and plastic that go to be

Logistics’ owner and director, Justin Spencer,

“The Cargo Floor system in my trailers is a

recycled and turned into other products.

was first introduced to a BPW Transpec

great product. For me to be able to unload

“Although I’ve only been in the transport

product. Quality and performance of the

my 48’ moving floor trailer takes me around

recycling business for the past three-four

products and the customer service of the

eight-nine minutes whereas other systems

years, I haven’t had the need to look around

BPW team has made Justin stick with the

I’ve seen take longer to load and unload,”

at any other brand or product because I’m

company since then.

Justin says.

very happy with the performance of the

For nearly four years Justin’s team has been

“For me, this product is great because my

Cargo Floor system.”

using the Cargo Floor CF500 SLC moving

trucks are in and out of a site quicker. I’ve

The Cargo Floor moving floor transport

floor system for its transport contract with

never had any problem with its operation for

system is based on the friction principle

IQ Renew. The multi-functional operating

my recycling transport job for IQ Renew.

between the sliding floor and load. The

unloading and loading Cargo Floor moving

“IQ Renew is a recycling company that

loading and unloading floor on which the

floor system features a sophisticated design

services curb side recycling for over a

product is positioned consists of loose

and robust construction, low tare weight

million households in Sydney. As a full-

profiles that are positioned in parallel next to

and also allows maximum payloads and

time contractor of IQ Renew, we have

each other and subdivided into three groups.

cargo volumes while being fully hydraulically

been providing transport for all aspects of

The floor can move as a whole unit in one

operated. Cargo Floor is ideally suited for

their business for over three years– from

direction and the load will shift with it; or

unloading of a wide variety of bulk products

transporting material into their recycling

every group moves individually, and the load

horizontally, fast and efficiently without

facility as well as taking out materials such

remains in place. The standard Cargo Floor

36

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

moving floor system is ideally suited to the

being loaded or unloaded is lighter or full-

“There was a little electrical issue in my

transport of almost all common products.

weight, I get the same serviceability. There is

Euro-make truck when I first picked it up.

Cargo Floor also has a range of different

no drag in the floor, it works at full capacity

I got in touch with NSW Manager, Scott

drive units and floor sections available for

Merriman, and he and his team were on

special applications. Cargo Floor systems

at all times.”

BPW Transpec has been bringing Cargo

fulfill all important transport needs including

Floor solutions to the local market for many

fixed in a couple of hours. The priority for

maximum cargo volume, low tare weight,

years. The team prides itself on supplying

them was to have my truck back on the

low operational cost owing to virtually no

reliable brands, durable products and high-

road as soon as possible.”

maintenance needs, durability, human safety

performance equipment and associated

and environmental sustainability.

components for the road transport, mining

“In terms of application there is no

and agricultural industries.

difference in loading or unloading of the

“The customer service I get from BPW

product,” Justin says. “Whether the material

Transpec is second to none,” Justin says.

top of it. They made sure my truck was

Contact BPW Transpec Ph:03 9267 2444 Web: www.bpwtranspec.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

37

TRAILER BUILDING MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

SAF Intradrum.

Light without compromise: SAF-Holland axles & suspensions STREAMLINED MAINTENANCE AND A REDUCTION IN THE TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP ONLY BEGIN TO OUTLINE THE ADVANTAGES OF SPECIFYING SAF-HOLLAND AXLES AND SUSPENSIONS. THE EQUIPMENT SPECIALIST CONTINUES TO INNOVATE ITS INDUSTRY-PROVEN GEAR FOR HEAVY DUTY SPECIFICATIONS AND PERFORMANCE-BASED STANDARDS APPLICATIONS. There are two major product groups

choice for anyone looking to reduce tare

the axle and a 10-year warranty against

under SAF-Holland’s axles and suspensions

weight and increase efficiency,” he says.

suspension corrosion) are now part of the

umbrella. INTRA: featuring a lightweight,

“With a six-year / one-million-kilometre

standard offering and not just an exclusive

fabricated trailing arm, rigidly connected

warranty on major components (bearings, 3D

article developed for specific customers,”

or welded to the axle; and Modul: with its

bushes, shocks), the INTRA series is the best

Nemanja says. “The offer for the Australian

Z-shape design, 100mm-wide spring (single

return on investment for every dollar spent.”

market is now standardised on a heavier spec

or twin) attached to the axle with U-bolts.

SAF-Holland is continuously engaged in

with INTRA Custom Design (INTRA CD) which

Since 2018, the equipment specialist has

research and development to make its

provides a thicker axle beam with HD – 3D

also incorporated York axles and suspensions

products more efficient, more reliable and

bushes. At the moment, we are finetuning

to its portfolio, enabling greater choice and

suitable for purpose-built applications.

some components in order to customise

flexibility for the end-user.

“The most recent ‘iteration’ of the SAF

them for tailored applications.”

The INTRA range, according to SAF-Holland

INTRA range, such as SAF TRAK (the first

The SAF INTRADISC plus Integral premium

Product Manager Asia-Pacific (APAC),

hydraulically driven trailer axle) and SAF PC

axle features a ten-spoke wheel-end design

Nemanja Miletic, is the lightest disc brake

(SAF Premium Coating, featuring increased

that is weight optimised.

option in the market. “It is also the preferred

zinc-based anti-corrosion protection for

“The ten-spoke wheel-end design is topology

38

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Fast Fact Wide-singles (385/65R22.5), according to SAF-Holland Product Manager AsiaPacific (APAC), Nemanja Miletic, are becoming more and more interesting for the Australian market.

“SAF-Holland’s standard offering is readily available in its lightweight category (complete unit weight starting from 380kg); wider track (2,040mm) and wider hanger centres (1,200mm) provide more stability

Fleets specify SAF-Holland’s axle and suspension systems for their robust design and versatile transport application.

and roll-stiffness, making it ideal for Performance-Based Standards (PBS) applications,” he says. “This setup

optimisation of the hub that has been in

wide/super-single tyres). This exercise proves

has been a standard option for years

service for decades,” Nemanja says. “Using

SAF-Hollands’ motto that nothing is so good

in New Zealand as they run on lower

a special computer software, the weight

that couldn’t be better.”

loads were every kilogram counts.”

was reduced providing increased strength.

With more than 500 retailers and 30

Technically, you take material from the place

authorised service centres across Australia

where you need it the least and then transfer

and New Zealand, SAF-Holland provides solid

it where you could benefit the most. The

technical support and aftersales service.

design was then realised, tested extensively

“Our technical services and engineering team

and validated. It is now part of the standard

are ready to answer your calls and technical

offering with 120mm offset wheels (suitable

queries,” Nemanja concludes.

Contact SAF-Holland 115 High Street Melton VIC 3337 Ph: 03 9971 7900 Customer Support: 1300 131 613 Web: www.safholland.com.au

SAF Intra Series.

www.trailermag.com.au

39

TRAILER BUILDING MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

Bright ideas for better outcomes BASED IN THE CENTRAL WESTERN NSW CITY OF PARKES, TRAILER BUILDER MIDLAND INDUSTRIES HAS BEEN USING LUCIDITY LIGHTING PRODUCTS FOR MORE THAN A DECADE. RELIABILITY, DURABILITY AND EASE OF INSTALLATION AND REPLACEMENT ARE KEY REASONS FOR THE ENDURING RELATIONSHIP. When you’re on a good thing stick to it. It

Larsens welcomed a Melbourne-based

system because no other manufacturer

might be a well-worn cliché but it certainly

investor with a background in trailer building

offered it and we soon started using it

sums up the thought processes behind

into the partnership to enable the company

to advertise what we believed to be an

Midland’s decision to solely rely on Lucidity

to expand its operations.

important point of difference between our

for the electrical fitout of its trailer builds.

As such, the company recently opened a new

products and those of our competitors.”

The company was established in 2007 and

facility at 8 Hoyle Court, Kyneton – about a

Martin goes on to explain that the P&P

quickly found its feet in the dog and tag

50-minute drive northwest of Melbourne.

system not only expedites wiring the trailer at

trailer realm, carving out a niche building

Further to this expansion, Midland has also

the manufacturing stage, but also saves time

specialty trailers for the transport of plant

shifted the location of its Parkes operations

for the owner if lights need to be replaced

and earthmoving machinery.

to a larger site at 3 Billy Mac Place.

down the track.

It subsequently evolved and diversified with

Asked about his initial experience with

“Each light has its own plug on the back

a broad product range that now includes

Lucidity products, Martin says the company

so if one needs to be replaced due to being

flat-tops, drop-decks, deck-wideners and

was recommended to him by a friend.

cracked or otherwise damaged, it only takes

extendables, along with highly complex

“Someone recommended we try Lucidity

a few minutes compared with about 20

Performance-Based Standards (PBS)

products due to their plug-and-play (P&P)

minutes for other hardwired lights,” Martin

combinations.

lighting system, which we did, and we fitted

explains. “The system also makes fault-

Martin Larsen co-founded Midland Industries

them to a trailer for the first time about 10.5

finding much easier.”

with his brother Ben and this arrangement

years ago,” Martin says.

He also mentions that the after-sales

continued until late last year when the

“We could see a real benefit in the P&P

support from the team at Lucidity has been

40

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

outstanding.

“With any new product there can be some back and forth to ensure it meets all requirements and Lucidity have always been on the ball in this respect,” Martin says. “Any feedback we have given them they have listened and taken onboard and made the changes that were required.”

According to Mathew Jenkins, President of Lucidity Australia, the business relationship between the two companies really shifted up a notch when the concept of trailer kitting was introduced to the team at Midland.

“In a very short time, standard trailer kits were being fitted to the entire Midland

one, where information is readily shared, has

He mentions the DC charging system that

product range,” Mathew says.

helped create some ground-breaking industry

draws power from the parking light circuit

“Kits are assembled and delivered specifically

solutions that assist everyone,” Martin says,

to charge the batteries used to operate the

for each trailer build and feature all the

adding, “Lucidity has considerable experience

hydraulic powerpacks on widening trailers.

electrical technology in the Lucidity Australia

making products that suit the rugged

“Again, it’s a P&P system that quickly and

arsenal, including lighting, wiring, DC

Australian environment which is an important

easily plugs into the lighting circuit without

charging and Dangerous Goods options.

consideration for us.

the need for hardwiring,” Martin says.

All are designed specifically for transport

“We build our trailers to stand up to these

In summing up, Martin says he has complete

applications as an integrated plug-in

harsh conditions and we rely on the products

confidence in Lucidity to supply Midland with

package.”

Lucidity supplies to do the same,” he says.

everything electrical required for its trailer

Martin adds that in addition to being a key

In a similar vein, Martin attests that Ludicity

builds now and well into the future.

and valued supplier to Midland, Lucidity is

is always looking for better and more

an excellent resource for solving electrical

innovative ways to do things, which matches

Contact

incompatibilities that are often ignored

well with Midland’s ethos of continual

within the industry.

improvement in designs in order to stay

“For us at Midland, a partnership such as this

ahead of the competition.

Lucidity Australia Pty Ltd 37 Paraweena Drive, Truganina, VIC 3029 Ph: (03) 9219 4074 Web: www.lucidityaustralia.com.au

Fast Fact As a loyal user of Lucidity electrical products on its trailer builds for more than a decade, Midland cites the ease of installation and replacement of lights and electrical equipment due to the plug-andplay system as a major advantage.

www.trailermag.com.au

41

TRAILER BUILDER MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

JOST in time for Easter A DESIRE TO KEEP AHEAD OF THE GAME BY ENGAGING THE LATEST TURNTABLE TECHNOLOGY HAS LED PROMINENT BRISBANE-BASED HAULIER, KS EASTER, TO FIRST TRIAL AND NOW STANDARDISE ON JOST JSK37CXW GREASELESS FIFTH WHEELS FITTED WITH THE SENSOR COUPLING OPTION ON ITS NEW PRIME MOVERS. Haulage company KS Easter was founded

the problem of miscoupled trailers – and

sometimes puts enough force onto the

in Newcastle 45 years ago by Managing

what makes this such a critical issue – is

fifth wheel that it can pass a hasty tug test

Director, Ken Easter, who started out as a

the huge variety of causes that can lead

and give the driver a false impression that

single truck owner-operator.

to a trailer being miscoupled and when or

the trailer is securely connected. This can

Over the next decade the business grew

how a miscoupled trailer actually becomes

lead to a potentially far more dangerous

quickly and Ken made the decision in

separated from the prime mover.

situation if the trailer separates from the

1988 to up stumps and move to Brisbane.

In the best-case scenario, the driver will

prime mover when travelling at speed on

As much of the work was linehaul

notice a miscoupled trailer when he or

the road.

between Melbourne and Brisbane, it made

she follows best-practice procedures and

JOST’s solution to this major safety factor

sense to be based at one end or the other.

visually inspects the coupling to ensure

is its Sensor Coupling System which gives

The business has since continued to

the kingpin is secure in the lock jaw and

the driver a visual and audible warning if

grow. Ken’s eldest son Kenny is General

the safety mechanism is in place, prior to

it detects that any one of the skid plate,

Manager and has been involved with the

performing a tug test after coupling. If the

kingpin or safety latch are not in the

business since 1991. With an emphasis

check is not made on the kingpin in the

correct position for a secure connection.

on safety and wellbeing for its drivers and

jaw, then a miscoupled trailer can separate

This system has the potential to avert

the general public, KS Easter made the call

from the fifth wheel during the tug test

disaster if the abovementioned scenario

to standardise on JOST JSK37CXW fifth

or when manouevering in the yard, which

should ever occur.

wheels with the sensor option that alerts

can cause damage to the truck or trailer

“We believe that JOST’s Sensor Coupling

the driver if a miscouple has occurred.

and delay deliveries.

system will help reduce the incidents that

One difficulty associated with tackling

However, the weight of a loaded trailer

happen due to drivers cutting corners and

JOST JSK37CW greaseless fifth wheel.

42

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

not physically checking that the fifth wheel jaw and locking bar are fully engaged,” Kenny says. “In our view the extra investment is well worthwhile because it will reduce our damage bill and the time and cost involved with filling out incident reports and paperwork that must be done every time a trailer is dropped.”

He also mentions that the frustration of customers when events happen has a negative impact on the business and must be avoided as much as possible.

The fact that most drivers now own a smartphone with an LED flashlight incorporated means the excuse of not having a torch to check if the turntable jaws are locked correctly is hardly valid anymore.

In-cab sensor coupling tech is also part of this fifth wheel package.

Having put one of JOST’s JSK37CXW fifth wheels with Sensor Coupling on trial

and that will now be the standard fit for

this ongoing strategy.

for several months, both the driver and

any new trucks we buy.”

According to Kenny, the products are

management at KS Easter were pleased

KS Easter has been using JOST turntables

bulletproof and rarely if ever have any

with the results.

and landing legs since Ken first started the

issues.

“There were a few very minor teething

business and today the entire fleet is now

“We’re very happy with the JOST low

issues, but these basically centred around

equipped.

maintenance greaseless turntables,”

housekeeping — ensuring the sensors

Nowadays the company runs over 100

Kenny says. “They’re very reliable and

are kept clean so they can do their work

prime movers and more than 250 trailers

they do the job well.”

properly,” he says. “Other than that,

The decision to exclusively use JOST

there were no issues at all, so the last new

equipment, and now even more so with

truck we bought we had the standard

the addition of the Sensor Coupling

turntable replaced with the new JOST unit

technology, is an important element in

Contact JOST Australia Ph: 1800 811 487 Web: www.jostaustralia.com.au

JOST fifth wheels are mounted to Western Star drop deck curtainsider B-doubles.

www.trailermag.com.au

43

www.smedleys.net.au

Powered by

Riding the technology wave DURING HIS 35-YEAR ROAD TRANSPORT CENTRED CAREER, HAMISH CHRISTIE-JOHNSTON LIVED AND WORKED IN NEW SOUTH WALES, VICTORIA, NEW ZEALAND AND, BRIEFLY, IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. such as Western Star Trucks, MAN Truck & Bus, Detroit, Allison Transmission, Dennis Eagle and MTU. The technology changes that have occurred during his 35-year career really stand out for Hamish.

“From the mechanically governed Cat engines that I started my career with to the electronically controlled drivetrains and zero emissions solutions that we see today, this advancement is ongoing and certainly not slowing down,” he says.

As for those in the industry who’ve influenced him most, Hamish mentions Dale Elphinstone and Roger Penske.

“I reported directly to Dale during my time at Victorian and Tasmanian Cat Dealer William Adams and I’ve spent quite a bit of time with Roger since joining his organisation,” he says.

Hamish Christie-Johnston was born at

“Fortunately, I ended up taking the job at

As for the future, Hamish says he is looking

Corryong in north-east Victoria, the eldest

Cat rather than Kodak,” he says with a

forward to the year ahead and the launch

son of Hilary and Hamish Christie-Johnston

wry grin.

of new Western Star and MAN models into

– who was at the time Parish Minister at the

“When I started at Cat in Tullamarine in

the Australian market, shortly followed by

Corryong Presbyterian Church.

1987, Bob Hawke was the PM and Sir

New Zealand.

The family moved to Hobart when Hamish

Joh was the Premier of Queensland. At

“Our team has been working hard to

was an infant and lived there for about five

that same time, the ubiquitous Cat 3406B

prepare for these launches and to improve

years before moving back to Melbourne in

truck engine was being fitted to a large

our levels of customer service in readiness

1970, where he was educated.

number of new Western Star and Kenworth

for the increased demand these new

“Throughout my upbringing and

prime movers; and, of course, it was

products are expected to produce,” he says.

working life, I’ve always been directly

the launch year for the ground-breaking

“Just as importantly, we’re passionate

involved in supporting primary industries

Detroit Series 60.”

about developing our future leaders and

such as mining, agriculture and forestry,”

After 20 years working for Caterpillar and

creating an environment that attracts

Hamish says.

two of the Cat dealers, Hamish worked

people to our industry.”

“Road transport has been the common

for two mining services companies –

thread running through all these activities,

first as General Manager in the largest

with the movement of livestock, produce,

mining equipment rental company in the

timber and mineral resources around the

world, and then as CEO of a small private

Industry Icon

country.”

underground mining services business.

Made possible by Smedley’s Engineers.

Hamish graduated from Melbourne

In 2014, he joined the Penske team

Industry Icon is a series dedicated to

University as a Mechanical Engineer and

following the acquisition of what is now

honouring the unsung heroes of the

was subsequently interviewed by BHP,

called Penske Australia & New Zealand.

commercial road transport industry.

Kodak and Caterpillar.

Penske represents a diverse range of brands

44

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

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Powered by

FLEET OF THE MONTH

Stand and deliver SHARING THEIR BUSINESS NAME WITH A FAMOUS ENGLISH FIREARMS AND MOTORCYCLE MANUFACTURER, BRIAN AND SHARON ANDERSON HAVE BUILT A SUCCESSFUL CRANE TRUCK BUSINESS PRIMARILY SERVICING SOUTHEAST QUEENSLAND AND UTILISING A FLEET OF SPECIALISED TRUCKS INCLUDING THREE DAFS. DAF CF85 8x4.

Founded in 1861, the Birmingham Small

because as word got out about the great

“Several years later they decided they

Arms Company Limited (BSA) was a

service the company offered, they were

needed a prime mover again so we

major British industrial conglomerate

inundated with requests for their services

removed the body and the lazy axle,

manufacturing military and sporting

and had no choice but to expand it to meet

shortened the chassis, and it once again

firearms, bicycles, motorcycles, cars, buses

the demand.

became a single drive prime mover which

and bodies, among other things. Some

“We have built some very strong

now pulls an 18-pallet tandem axle semi-

143 years later, on the other side of the

relationships with several companies over

trailer,” Brian says, adding that the truck

world, Brian and Sharon Anderson started

the years and they have been rock solid in

has now done over 700,000km and still

a company called BSA Transport, where the

their support for us which has formed the

going strong.

name lives on but the similarities, on the

mainstay of the business,” Brian says.

The company’s policy is to keep its trucks

whole, end there. The couple provides a

One such company is a steel frame and

for around 10 or 11 years, which is to say

first class crane truck service to customers

roofing manufacturer which BSA Transport

this prime mover will likely be retired before

primarily in southeast Queensland, having

has been servicing since 2008 and which

too long.

begun in accordance to a plan that they

currently keeps 10 to 14 of the company’s

Brian talks about the excellent reliability of

were, quite memorably, promptly forced to

trucks busy on a daily basis.

the truck being matched by the outstanding

abandon.

One of these is a DAF CF single drive prime

service BSA receives from the dealer Brown

“In 2004 I’d just left a management

mover that BSA bought back in 2011 and

and Hurley at Yatala — conveniently located

position with a large taxi truck company

that has been providing sterling service to

just a 20-minute drive from the company’s

and we decided to buy one crane truck

both companies. Brian explains that this

depot at Kingston.

so I could semi-retire,” Brian says. “That

truck has had an unusual life. After a few

plan lasted for about three seconds and 36

years as a prime mover at the customer’s

“You’ve got to have reliability and backup and as far as I’m concerned Brown

trucks later here we are today.”

request, it was turned into a 14-pallet rigid

and Hurley and DAF put a big tick in both

Brian says it soon proved impossible for the

curtainsider with the chassis lengthened

these boxes,” he says. “The service is

couple to keep the business at one truck

and a lazy axle added.

second to none.”

46

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

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PRIME MOVER and TRAILER are Australia’s most-read monthly news resources for the commercial road transport industry covering all facets of our industry from bitumen to boardroom.

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WORLD MAP

In Bruges THE KINGDOM OF BELGIUM HAS PUT THE SWORD TO BUZZWORDS AND HYPERBOLE. WHEN IT TALKS OF DELIVERING A GREEN AND DIGITAL TRANSITION, THERE IS EVIDENCE OF MEANINGFUL INDUSTRIAL CHANGE INCLUDING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A WORLD-LEADING HYDROGEN PRODUCTION PARTNERSHIP.

Traffic in Antwerp.

Belgium’s Federal Planning Bureau released

to increase by 73,000 people over the period

investment will gain once uncertainties about

a statement in September 2021 forecasting

2021-2022.

Covid-19 are reduced.

a return to pre-coronavirus levels for the

Meanwhile, an economic outlook via the

Interestingly, OECD claim policies should

economy by the year’s end. Over the course

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and

support resource reallocation. Policy support

of 2022, quarterly Gross Domestic Product

Development (OECD) indicated the country’s

in this instance should be removed carefully

(GDP) growth should gradually normalise,

recovery plan is focused on a green and digital

in line with the evolution of the pandemic

leading to a less pronounced growth of 3.0

transition.

and the recovery. Policy support, according

per cent, with exports and especially private

Production in manufacturing has already

to OECD, should strictly be targeted to viable

consumption as the mainstays.

surpassed pre-crisis levels. Business sentiment

jobs and firms. Also, the planned insolvency

Consumer price inflation, according to the

has improved, too, mainly driven by a rise in

reform should be implemented as scheduled

Bureau, has been much higher than expected,

demand expectations. Uncertainty, however,

to reduce obstacles hampering the successful

mainly due to unexpectedly high prices for

is said to be holding back a proportionate

restructure of viable firms and the smooth exit

natural gas and electricity. There is optimism

increase in business investment.

of non-viable firms. While there have been job

of inflation cooling and energy prices easing.

A strong economic rebound is expected as

losses, there are new opportunities emerging

On an annual basis, inflation would be 1.9

restrictive measures are removed and the

in the information and communications

per cent in 2021 and 2.1 per cent in 2022,

population is increasingly vaccinated. Private

sector. These can be facilitated through

while the health index would increase by 1.6

consumption will gain momentum and

up-skill or re-skill programs mandatory for

per cent and 2.1 per cent respectively. The

accumulated savings will remain in excess of

those on temporary layoff schemes. Finally,

previous pivot index (109.34) was exceeded

pre-pandemic levels. Turnover in the labour

the authorities, according to OECD, should

in August 2021 and the current pivot index

market, though, is expected to rise due to the

use Next Generation EU funds swiftly and

(111.53) was to be reached in June 2022.

winding down of most policy measures. With

effectively to address potential growth which

Employment across Belgium is also expected

improved global economic prospects, business

is otherwise projected to slow markedly.

48

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

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Sendle appoints Managing Director for Australia SENDLE IS REPORTED TO BE AUSTRALIA’S FIRST AND ONLY 100 PER CENT CARBON NEUTRAL SHIPPING SERVICE. IN JANUARY 2022, THE COURIER, WHICH SERVICES SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED BUSINESSES AND ONLINE RETAILERS, APPOINTED ITS FIRST EVER MANAGING DIRECTOR FOR AUSTRALIA, LAURA HILL. The appointment follows another year of growth for Sendle as demand for e-commerce shipping continues to skyrocket across the globe.

With a rich background in e-commerce, media and advertising, Hill will drive Sendle’s continued expansion in Australia.

In 2021 alone, Sendle helped facilitate over a billion dollars in small business e-commerce and is expecting an even bigger 2022 with Hill at the helm.

In this new role, Hill will oversee the company’s entire Australian operation which includes a growing national delivery network of more than 3,100 drivers and 900 drop-off locations across the country.

She will also be focussed on evolving Sendle’s shipping products and services for Australian small business owners, driving business development and overseeing critical e-commerce partnerships.

Hill brings to the executive team over 15 years experience in leading high performing teams for a number of Australian companies including Gumtree and Fairfax. Joining Sendle in 2021 as Vice President of

company continues to ramp up its growth in

pipeline of product innovations and

Partnership Development, Hill has played

Australia,” said Hill.

partnerships to announce over 2022 and I’m

an instrumental role to date in fostering

“After six years working in e-commerce

looking forward to working closely with the

commercial partnerships with eBay, Shopify,

marketplaces, a move to logistics was the

team to bring these to life.”

Poshmark and ShipStation.

most logical step for me. Shipping truly is

James Chin Moody, Sendle CEO and co-

Prior to Sendle, Hill was the Director of

one of the most exciting and critical parts of

founder, said the team couldn’t be more

Commercial Business for Gumtree Australia

any online transaction, and its importance

thrilled to have someone of Hill’s calibre

where she was responsible for driving the

has been brought to the forefront during

leading Sendle’s growing team in Australia.

commercial business strategy for one of

Covid.

“Laura brings a unique combination of deep

Australia’s biggest online marketplaces.

“Australian small businesses are the

e-commerce experience together with a

She has also held leadership positions at

lifeblood of the economy and at Sendle

huge amount of empathy for the shipping

Fairfax Media, heading up the brand and

we’re constantly evolving our products

needs of small businesses,” he said. “Her

sales department for a number of popular

and expanding our suite of courier services

knowledge and expertise is exactly what we

Australian titles.

to level the playing field and fulfill their

need as we head into 2022 in the face of

“It’s an exciting time to be at Sendle as the

shipping needs. We have an incredible

another year of record growth.”

50

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

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SPECIAL REPORT - ELECTRIFICATION

Together in electric dreams THE ELECTRIFICATION OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES IN AUSTRALIA IS FINALLY GAINING MOMENTUM. Corporate responsibility is a key driver for

James Dixon, said the addition of the Fuso

Responsibility plan and its science-based

the rollout of all-electric commercial vehicles.

eCanter to Australia Post’s delivery fleet was

target to reduce emission by 15 per cent by

It certainly is for national courier, Australia

an exciting step for the organisation.

2025.

Post, which in November last year, welcomed

“We’re very proud to be Australia’s largest

“This is an important milestone for our

the first of 20 electric trucks into its fleet.

electric fleet operator, but up until this point,

business,” said Mizrahi. “We know that

The remaining 17 trucks on order should hit

our electric fleet has consisted solely of

every delivery has a carbon footprint which

the streets, delivering in major capital cities,

smaller delivery vehicles that are used for the

is why we’re committed to reducing our

from early 2022. The rollout of the new

last mile,” he said.

emissions through growing our electric

vehicles will be supported by Australia Post

“We’ve trialled a range of electric trucks

fleet and increasing our renewable energy

Fleet Management Provider SG Fleet.

previously, but the Fuso eCanter is the first

production to help power these new

Australia Post has an existing delivery fleet

we’ve found that suits both Australian

vehicles.”

of over 2,100 electric delivery vehicles and

conditions and our unique operational

The Fuso eCanter is reported to be the only

1400 electric bicycles.

needs,” said Dixon.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)

The introduction of Fuso eCanters is

Australia Post Chief Sustainability Officer,

electric truck available in Australia and uses

reported to follow a successful trial of the

Susan Mizrahi, said expanding the current

the latest technology from the Daimler Truck

Daimler developed truck in late 2019.

electric fleet was an important part of

group.

Australia Post General Manager Networks,

the Australia Post’s 2020-22 Corporate

Daniel Whitehead, President and CEO of

52

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific, said

Rated to 8.5-tonnes, the SEA 300-85 is

opportunity in this regard.”

Australia Post was the perfect first Australian

specified with a 138kWh battery driving

Since 2017, SEA Electric has been

customer for the eCanter.

a 1,500Nm motor, which lends itself to a

performing driveline swaps on existing

“Daimler is thrilled to partner with such

variety of final applications, including dry

internal combustion engine powered

an iconic brand as Australia Post on a

freight, temperature-controlled freight, as

trucks, which has perfected the technology,

journey towards carbon neutral freight

an elevated working platform or a tipper for

including the patented SEA-Drive Power

transportation in Australia,” he said.

municipal use in a range of trims.

System.

Is it inevitable for other fleets to follow suit

Unladen, the combination has a potential

The move to construct from new on a

when it comes to the acquisition of diesel-

range of up to 300km.

production line by SEA Electric sees the

alternative-powered trucks? For Mining

For Mineral Resources, the addition of

process become much more efficient, with

Resources, a prominent mining company, it

an all-electric truck to its vehicle fleet is a

the trucks prepared quicker, cheaper and

took delivery of a SEA 300-85 from global

strong demonstration of the company’s

with less waste.

e-mobility technology company, SEA Electric,

commitment to net-zero emissions. The

It is also noteworthy that SEA Electric

last October. This was celebrated by the

company’s Chief Executive of Mining

is currently replicating the production

manufacturer as a win, the first Australian

Services, Mike Grey, said the firm is

techniques developed locally in Australia for

produced all-electric truck to leave its

committed to a low-carbon future and

other markets worldwide.

production line. The vehicle currently travels

is working to reduce its greenhouse gas

The SEA 300-85 is just one example of

along the Western Australia road network.

emissions.

the first full range of pure-electric trucks

Constructed from a Semi Knocked Down

“Our mission is to grow our mining services

available globally, with options covering from

(SKD) kit at SEA Electric’s Melbourne facility,

and operations responsibly and across our

4.5-tonne car licence through to 22.5-tonne

the truck was finished with the latest SEA

business,” he said. “We are finding ways

three-axle rigids.

Electric badging and branding, complete

to reduce our carbon emissions through

Developments overseas may in time take

with its own compliance plate and full

improving fuel efficiency and optimising

root in our domestic market.

factory warranty.

our logistics – transport offers us a great

Hydrogen and electric commercial vehicle www.trailermag.com.au

53

SPECIAL REPORT - ELECTRIFICATION

maker, Giga Carbon Neutrality (GCN), is set

composite materials to improve safety and

transportation companies.”

to launch a comprehensive range of vehicles

deliver reductions in weight and energy

The company’s initial range includes a

that it plans to bring to market over the

consumption of at least ten per cent.

44-tonne rated hydrogen fuel-cell truck

next two years. GCN will launch 21 different

The bodies of GCN vehicles are designed to

with a top speed of 90 kph and 580 km

battery-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell

last for 20 years, significantly longer than

range before refuelling; a 12-metre transit

powered vehicles by the end of 2023, the

vehicles from other providers on the market

bus for urban public transport capable of

Chinese company said in a statement.

the manufacturer claimed.

carrying up to 95 passengers; the 6.9 metre

The portfolio is configurable to a wide

GCN is working with public and

GCN Pure Electric Minibus with an ultra-

range of commercial use cases and includes

private sector partners to provide clean

long wheelbase and flat floor structure to

a tractor unit, buses and last mile logistics

energy storage, charging and refuelling

provide capacity for up to 13 passengers;

vehicles.

infrastructure, as well as specialist financing

and an 8-tonne battery-electric truck to

At present, the company’s first prototype

to support the adoption of what it refers

support last mile logistics in urban and rural

hydrogen-fuelled tractor unit is undergoing

to as its zero-emission commercial vehicles

areas currently known as the GCN Electric

advanced road and usability trials in China.

globally.

“We are thrilled to give the world its

Logistics Vehicle.

GCN designs its vehicles at a state-of-the-art research and development centre located

first look at the future of zero-emission

Chasun, China Union Pay, UMS Express and

in Hangzhou, China.nIts international

commercial transportation,” said Giga

State-owned automobile company Chery.

headquarters are located in London.

Carbon Neutrality CEO, Marty Wade.

Australia’s trucking industry is proving to

It is understood GCN has developed its own

“GCN is enabling a carbon-neutral future

be as dynamic as ever with a variety of new

proprietary hydrogen fuel-cell technology

for some of the world’s most energy-

vehicles set to enter the market in the near

and will initially source batteries from leading

intensive industries, with clean energy

future. Following the uptake of battery

manufacturers.

vehicles, new technologies and a fuelling

electric vehicles across a range of sectors

The GCN vehicles are manufactured

ecosystem to make running clean,

it makes sense that workshops across the

using lightweight stainless steel and

reliable vehicle fleets easy for commercial

country will be exploring opportunities to

54

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

Partners of GCN include Silk Road Group,

upskill personnel and maintain pace with

Tillett said TAFE Queensland has been

Artisan A18 battery-electric loader.

electrification trends.

providing industry standard training across

Dana Australia Managing Director, Nick

Last year, TAFE Queensland opened a

the hybrid electronic light vehicles sector for

Stavrakis, said the company is pleased to

Heavy Plant Centre of Excellence to provide

over a decade.

have the opportunity to partner with TAFE

industry relevant electronic and battery

“The new training facility will enable

Queensland to customise training to meet

operated vehicles and machinery training in

training to now extend further to support

the unique needs of these important future

response to these emerging technologies.

heavy commercial vehicles, mobile plant

career paths.

TAFE Queensland Heavy Vehicle Industries

technology, civil construction, mining,

“Dana offers a full suite of electrified

Business Manager, Geoff Tillett, said the

transport and logistics sectors,” he said.

technologies for off-highway equipment

training provider is pioneering to deliver the

“The centre will also offer specialised

and we understand that the technicians of

training that industry needs to service and

training on electronic propulsion and

the future will require training to ensure

repair hybrid electric vehicles and battery

integrated hydraulic systems in mobile plant

they can safely manage the maintenance

electric vehicles and machinery entering

and road transport as well as the high-end

activities for these vehicles,” he said.

Australia at an increasing volume.

diagnostic capabilities that are going be

A featured course delivered from the new

“As a result of this increase comes the

required well into the future.”

facility is the Safely Depower and Reinitialise

risk of having unskilled and unqualified

As TAFE Queensland expands its capabilities

Hybrid Vehicle Skill Set (SSAUR001). The

people within this industry working on high

to support the electronic and battery-

course is designed to provide updated

voltage and high amperage battery electric

operated vehicles and machinery sector,

electronic and battery electric vehicles

vehicles,” said Tillett.

partnerships have already been formed

skills relevant across the light automotive,

“The skills and knowledge learnt at our new

with key industry organisations to ensure all

heavy commercial vehicles, mobile plant

Heavy Plant Centre of Excellence will be

training remains consistent and up to date

technology, civil construction, mining and

essential to complete work on electronic and

as new technologies continue to evolve.

battery-operated vehicles and machinery to

One of these partners, global aftermarket

transport and logistics industries.

The skill set provides existing workers

the highest safety and service standards.

“TAFE Queensland aims to ensure industry

parts and automotive supplies provider,

key skills including the main components

DANA Australia will work with TAFE

of hybrid battery electrics vehicles,

is safe when it comes to working on new

Queensland to supply ongoing resources,

how to safely isolate high voltage (HV)

electronic and battery-operated vehicles

training and support. The company has

rechargeable energy storage systems

and machinery and to ensure our employers

already made plans to provide two sets

(RESS), and how to reinitialise energy

and apprentices have both the current and

of Dana TM4 SUMO motors and CO150

storage systems and safely reinitialise a

contextualised training they require.”

inverters, which are used on the Sandvik

hybrid electric vehicle.

www.trailermag.com.au

55

DATA CRUNCH

ARTSA-i Data analytics Heavy vehicle market report – December quarter (Q4) 2021

“A year of 20% plus growth”

ARTSA reviews Q4 2021 heavy vehicle market report New registration quarterly analysis

The 2021 year finished with a bang. Record new registrations across the board, with trailers exceeding 4000 new units registered for the quarter and prime movers just over 2000 units.

Anecdotal evidence supported this outcome, and it seems that only COVID-related supply chain issues are restraining further growth for now. Rigid vehicles are also close to an all-time high of ARTSA-I DATA ANALYTICS DIRECTOR, ROB PERKINS, just under 5000 units.

The drivers EXECUTIVE of this growth can be partly explained by investment CONFIRMS 2021 FINISHED WITH A BANG FROM THE PERSPECTIVE allowances but there must be other factors at work as well to deliver this level of re-investment OF NEW QUARTERLY ANALYSIS. in the heavyREGISTRATION vehicle fleet. Record harvests are also contributing strongly to demand.

New registration quarterly analysis - 4 quarters of 2021 5000 4500 4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Heavy Prime movers

Heavy Trailers Q1

Med and Heavy Rigids Q2

Q3

Heavy Buses

Q4

Source: Analysis by ARTSA-i Data analytics of NEVDIS registration data.

Source: analysis by ARTSA-i Data analytics of NEVDIS registration data

56Its seems that everyone shared in this growth except for heavy buses that are flat.

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

When looked at on an annual basis, the graph below shows the 20%plus growth in new

0.00% -5.00%

Heavy Prime movers

Heavy Trailers

Med and Heavy Buses Heavy Rigids

Total

Source: analysis by ARTSA-i Data analytics of NEVDIS registration data

Median age of the fleet and fleet growth

Stepping back from quarterly and annual new registrations, it is worth analysing the median age of the heavy vehicle fleet. Total fleet numbers (as opposed to new registrations) are growing around 3 to 4.5% per annum. This lower growth accounts for retirements as well as the new registrations. The net result is that new registrations are barely shifting the long term (and quite old on a world scale) median age of the heavy vehicle fleet.

Median age - at end of year 20 15 10 5 0

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Heavy Prime movers

Heavy Trailers

Heavy Rigids

Medium Rigids

2020

2021

Source: Analysis by ARTSA-i Data analytics of NEVDIS registration data.

Source: analysis by ARTSA-i Data analytics of NEVDIS registration data

whether this growth will continue.

Further information

accounts for retirements as well as the new

registrations. The net result is that new Traditionally the first and second quarters ARTSA-i Data analytics can supply a range of custom reports that provide considerable detail by registrations are barely shifting the long term of the year are quieter in terms of new manufacturer, registrations, but can also be analysed by State, by such (andyear quiteand old onother a worldvariables scale) median age as registration yet the strong demand might category, VIN (for OEMthem VINtoowners), postcode, age more. of and the heavy vehicle fleet.” just show also break records.”

ARTSA-i Data the analytics can supply range Perkins also reviewed age be of the For more information on the datamedian that can purchased contact ARTSA-i Dataa analytics Executive of custom reports that provide considerable fleet and growth.

Director, Rob Perkins onfleet rob@artsa.com.au or phone +61 411 402 832 “Stepping back from quarterly and annual new registrations, it is worth

detail by manufacturer, but can also be

the board with trailers exceeding 4,000

“Total fleet numbers (as opposed to new

new units registered for Q4 2021 and prime

registrations) are growing around 3.0 to

movers just over 2,000 units.

4.5 per cent per annum. This lower growth

For more information on the data that can be purchased contact: rob@artsa.com.au or phone +61 411 402 832.

analysed by state, by year and other variables

This report is available on www.artsa.com.au and to the ARTSA Institute (ARTSA-i). analysing the median age of theremains heavy copyright such as registration category, VIN (forData OEMfrom this report can be used and quotedvehicle for industry to ARTSA-i.

The reported record new registrations across fleet,”analysis he said. but its source must be attributed VIN owners), postcode, age and more.

“Anecdotal evidence supported this outcome, and it seems that only Covidrelated supply chain issues are restraining further growth for now,” said Perkins.

“Rigid vehicles are also close to an all-time high of just under 5,000 units. The drivers of this growth can be partly explained by investment allowances but there must be other factors at work as well to deliver this level of re-investment in the heavy vehicle fleet. Record harvests are also contributing strongly to demand.”

All categories shared in this growth except for heavy buses which remained flat.

“When looked at on an annual basis, the graph below shows the 20-plus per cent growth in new registrations in the last 12 months,” said Perkins.

“The question for the market is one of www.trailermag.com.au

57

WHAT’S ON

Truck Shows & Field Days 2022 PENCIL IN SOME INFORMATION ON DATES AND VENUES OF VARIOUS TRUCK SHOWS, FIELD DAYS AND ROAD TRANSPORT INDUSTRY CONFERENCES BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY. Got an upcoming event? Then let us know about it. E: editor@trailermag.com.au

FEBRUARY

JUNE

OCTOBER

Western Australia

Victoria

Victoria

Boyup Brook Ute and Truck Muster 19 February Boyup Brook, WA Visit: www.countrymusicwa.com.au/ute-truck-muster

Alexandra Truck Ute and Rod Show 12 June Alexandra, Victoria Visit: www.alexandratruckshow.com.au

Wandin Silvan Field Days 14-15 October Wandin, VIC Visit: www.wandinsilvanfielddays.com.au

MARCH

Queensland

New South Wales

New South Wales

Ag-Grow Emerald 23-25 June Emerald, QLD Visit: www.aggrow.com.au

Murrumbateman Field Days 15-16 October Murrumbateman, NSW Visit: www.mfdays.com

SEPTEMBER

Germany

South Australia

New South Wales

South East Field Days 18-19 March Lucindale, SA Visit: www.sefd.com.au

Henty Machinery Field Days 20-22 September 2022 Henty, NSW Visit: www.hmfd.com.au

Bauma 2022 24-30 October Munich, Germany Visit: www.bauma.de/en

Light Regional Farm & 4x4 Expo 25-26 March Freeling, SA Visit: www.thefarmcentre.com.au/light-regional-farm4x4-expo/light-regional-farm-4x4-expo

Germany

Brazil

IAA Commercial Vehicles Show 20-25 September Hannover, Germany Visit: www.iaa.de

7-11 November Sao Paulo Expo Brazil Visit: www.fenatran.com.br

Convoy for Kids Sydney 20 March Sydney, NSW Visit: www.convoyforkids.com.au

Victoria Farm World 27-28 March Warragul, VIC Visit: https://lardnerpark.com.au/event/farm-world/all/ APRIL Sydney National Diesel Dirt and Turf Expo 8-11 April Sydney, NSW Visit: https://www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/ MAY Western Australia WA Mack Muster 22 May Whitby, WA Visit: www.mackmuster.com.au

58

Trailer Magazine FEBRUARY 22

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JOST Fifth Wheel JSK37CX & JSK37CXW

The heavy duty version of JOST Australia's most popular Fifth Wheels - the JSK37 range

Technical data Type JSK37CX & JSK37CXW

JSK37CX & JSK37CXW • Available in grease and greaseless versions • Available in heights of 150mm, 170mm, 185mm, 220mm and 250mm bolt on / weld on pedestals • Also available in low profile and double row ballrace assemblies • Features a new 4 bolt wear ring for added strength • Suitable for many PBS applications, as well as tankers, livestock and fridge van and other high centre of gravity applications

www.jostaustralia.com.au

King pin

2”/50mm

Imposed Load

24,000kg

D-value

240kN

CRN

45374