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Trailer Magazine Nov 2026

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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

NOVEMBER 2026

BULKING UP

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From the Editor’s desk CHAIRMAN

John Murphy john.murphy@primecreative.com.au

MANAGING EDITOR

Luke Applebee luke.applebee@primecreative.com.au

EDITOR

Peter White peter.white@primecreative.com.au

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03 9690 8766 subscriptions@primecreative.com.au Trailer Magazine is available by subscription from the publisher. Annual rates: AUS $99.00 (inc GST). For overseas subscriptions, airmail postage should be added to the subscription rate. The right of refusal is reserved by the publisher.

ARTICLES

All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

COPYRIGHT

Trailer Magazine is owned by Prime Creative and published by John Murphy. All material in Trailer Magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information Prime Creative will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Trailer Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.

Officially endorsed by the VTA

Supply and demand A new study released by the Victorian Government has reinforced Victoria’s position as Australia’s freight and logistics capital. According to the Container Logistics Chain Study, container volumes through the Port of Melbourne have increased by almost 15 per cent since 2019. In 2024, 3.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) moved through the Port compared to 2.96 million during 2019. The report also saw an improvement in supply chain performance. Almost 70 per cent of import containers are reportedly being collected within two days of becoming available, and at an average collection time of 36 hours. When releasing the Container Logistics Chain Study, Victorian Minister for Ports and Freight, Melissa Horne, said the insights gained from it will help the State Government support Victoria’s freight workforce of 260,000 who keep supply chains moving every day. She also said the findings highlight the importance of the Victorian Rail Freight Plan, which aims to increase the efficiency and resilience of Victoria’s supply chain. “This study will help us make better, long-term decisions about how we move goods across the state and ensure we maintain our status as Australia’s freight and logistics capital,” Horne said. Victoria handles more than a third of Australia’s container trade, and contributes $36 billion to Gross State Product annually. The state’s largest exports were led by food and livestock, which total more than 25 per cent of export container volumes.

A key factor of the report is that truck and trailer combinations were identified as the dominant mode of transport between the Port, transport depots, importers, exporters, intermodal terminals and empty container parks. Interestingly, 65 per cent of those combinations are B-doubles, with 19 per cent being Super B-doubles and 16 per cent semi-trailers. With more than 40 per cent of metropolitan import containers destined for major logistics hubs in Laverton, Truganina and Derrimut, Melbourne’s western suburbs continue to play a critical role in the state’s freight network. “This report will help industry and government work together to improve the efficiency and resilience of Victoria’s supply chain,” said Port of Melbourne CEO, Saul Cannon.

Trailer Magazine Editor Peter White

www.trailermag.com.au

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Industry news Business partnerships, people movements, developments that bolster freight productivity and more.

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Economy Pilbara Ports has announced a significant project to bolster the Port of Ashburton.

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Modern road tankers See the industry’s latest tanker technology.

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Low loaders We take a look at Bloomfield Hay and Transport’s new Tuff Trailers 4x4 Low Loader Extendable Widener, and The Drake Group’s year in review and exciting plans for 2027.

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Trailer builder Australia’s trailer manufacturing industry is as strong as ever.

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Moving floor KEITH Manufacturing Company’s brand-new RX drive technology has officially arrived in Australia. Tyres & wheels Johnstone Concrete and Quarries has increased productivity and reliability with EnduRace RT2.

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Trailer building materials/components A showcase of the products and services that keep trailers on the move.

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SEMMA SEMMA has raised its concerns over Victoria’s government procurement measures.

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Infrastructure spotlight What you need to know about Australia’s biggest road projects this month.

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World map Earlier this year, 30 executives from Europe’s trailer manufacturing industry signed a joint declaration.

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Fleet of the month Speedlink Logistics has partnered with Arrow Transport to launch its first A-triple combination.

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What’s on Upcoming shows and field days.

Trailer Magazine NOVEMBER 2026

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Victoria

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News

One of Lindsay Australia’s new combinations. Image: Lindsay Australia.

Lindsay launches new fleet as Primary Connect services begin Lindsay Australia has commenced pick-up and delivery operations for Primary Connect from Brisbane to Mackay and Bowen, marking the first stage of a staggered rollout covering Far North Queensland. Services will extend to Townsville in November and Cairns in February 2027, completing the Far North Queensland network rollout for distribution to supermarkets. BIG W stores are scheduled to commence across the region from July 2027, marking the final phase of the regional rollout. The commencement of operations follows months of planning, recruitment and site preparation with Primary Connect. A new fleet of 55 prime movers and skel trailers has been deployed for the work. The fleet is a combination of Freighter Group skel trailers matched with Volvo FM13s and Mack Anthems ideally suited for

the task and North Queensland conditions. Advanced AI-enabled in-cab technology, mobile devices, sign-on-glass devices and freight scanning has been installed across the fleet and at each operating site to improve speed, accuracy and visibility of freight movements and delivery performance. Lindsay Australia Executive Director, Rob Miller, said the commencement of the Primary Connect contract is an important milestone for Lindsay Australia and for regional Queensland. “Our teams have worked closely with Primary Connect to make sure every region starts safely and reliably,” he said. “We look forward to extending the network to Townsville and Cairns over the coming months.” Lindsay Australia is also establishing new sites in Townsville and Cairns to support the

secondary freight task in North Queensland, with these sites also providing benefits to Lindsay’s comprehensive linehaul operations that service the region. In the meantime, it has recruited and trained new drivers and operational staff for the Primary Connect project. “We have invested in a comprehensive two-week induction and systems training program for our new teams, and we are 100 per cent ready for go-live,” Miller said. “I am incredibly proud of how our SRT and Lindsay Transport teams have come together to establish such a large and complex network. “Having spent time with our new team members over the past two weeks, I have been impressed by the calibre of talent we have attracted as we build a culture of excellence across North Queensland for the benefit of all our clients.”

he held several ministerial portfolios, including Transport, Roads and Tourism, and played a key role in securing the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games. As the inaugural Chair of the NHVR Board, Baird guided the organisation through a significant period of reform and change, helping bring together government and industry in pursuit of a safer, more productive heavy vehicle industry. Tributes have flowed from across Australia following news of his passing. Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, described Baird as “a real gentleman and a true parliamentarian”, noting that he served “with distinction, and he served with principle and unwavering humanity”. Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison called him “a giant, a mentor and a friend”, while former Prime Minister Malcolm

Turnbull remembered him as “a genuine liberal, motivated by love, not hate”. Baird was also recognised for his humanitarian work, including his advocacy on refugee issues and his appointment as Chair of the Refugee Resettlement Advisory Council in 2008. He was awarded membership of the Order of Australia in 2010 for his service to public life. “Baird’s leadership was characterised by integrity, professionalism and a genuine commitment to public service, and his contribution to the Australian transport industry extended well beyond the NHVR and will be remembered by many across the sector,” the NHVR said in a statement. “The NHVR extends our sincere condolences to Bruce’s family, friends and former colleagues.”

Vale Bruce Baird Bruce Baird, inaugural Chair of the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) Board and a respected leader in Australian transport and public service, has passed away. Baird played a pivotal role during the establishment of the NHVR and guiding the organisation through its formative years. Serving as Chair from the regulator’s inception, he helped set the strategic direction of the NHVR and oversaw its development as Australia’s first national heavy vehicle regulator. Before his involvement with the NHVR, Baird enjoyed a distinguished political career spanning both state and federal politics. He served in the NSW Parliament before representing the federal NSW seat of Cook between 1998 and 2007. During his time in state government,

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News

CMA CGM Group acquires FedEx Supply Chain CMA CGM Group, the parent company of CEVA Logistics, has acquired FedEx Supply Chain at an enterprise value of $1.8 billion USD (approx. $2 billion AUD). The completed acquisition significantly expands CEVA Logistics’ contract logistics operations in North America and reinforces CMA CGM’s more than 25-year commitment to investing in the United States.

It also advances the group’s strategy to provide comprehensive end-to-end logistics solutions spanning ocean shipping, terminals, inland transport, warehousing and value-added logistics. With the integration of FedEx Supply Chain’s assets and nearly 10,000 team members, CEVA Logistics is now one of North America’s leading contract logistics providers. “The completion of this acquisition marks an important step in the development of CMA CGM and CEVA Logistics in North

America,” said CMA CGM Group Chairman and CEO, Rodolphe Saadé. “By significantly expanding our contract logistics capabilities, we are strengthening our ability to offer customers integrated, end-to-end supply chain solutions across ocean, air, land and logistics. “It also reinforces CMA CGM’s long-term commitment to investing in the United States, a strategic growth market for the group, and supporting the resilience and efficiency of its supply chain.” Beyond physical footprint, the acquisition combines complementary digital and operational capabilities, accelerating the deployment of automation and robotics. It also deepens CEVA’s sector expertise in healthcare, technology, consumer and retail. The acquisition brings FedEx Supply Chain under the CEVA Logistics umbrella. Image: CEVA Logistics.

Matt Grove joins Minus 1 Minus 1 has appointed Matt Grove as General Manager Operations. Reporting directly to Minus 1 CEO and Managing Director, Bill Barba, he will be responsible for leading the company’s operations teams and working closely with state general managers and customers across the network. Grove said he is excited to join the business. “Minus 1 is a 40-year-old Australian business and temperature-controlled

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Trailer Magazine NOVEMBER 2026

freight specialist, with 50,000+ pallet capacity across cold storage facilities in all major cities, supported by a national transport and linehaul network,” he said. “The business has a strong operational platform, including a PBS linehaul fleet and data-rich AI tools and insights that give us the ability to make better, faster decisions. “I’m looking forward to getting into the detail, working with the team and continuing to improve the way we operate and service our customers.”

Grove joins Minus 1 with almost 20 years of experience in the transport industry. Prior to his last role as General Manager Operations at Hawk Logistics, he served as Group Logistics Manager – eCommerce at Woolworths Group and spent more than eight years at Linfox in a range of roles including National Contracts Manager Cold Chain – Bega Dairy and Drinks + Aldi. Grove also served as Warehouse Operator at Silk Logistics from 2007 to 2014.


THE FUTURE OF CRYOGENIC TRANSPORT & STORAGE Marshall Lethllean introduces New CO2 Road Tanker marking a significant milestone in the evolution of cryogenic road transport equipment in Australia Marshall Lethlean has expanded its specialist tanker portfolio with the introduction of a new-generation CO₂ road tanker, designed to meet the growing demand for safe and efficient transport of liquid carbon dioxide across industrial, food and beverage, and energy sectors. The new tanker represents a change in cryogenic transport technology advanced safety systems, enhanced thermal insulation, and a lightweight, high-strength design aimed at maximizing payload while maintaining regulatory compliance. Developed with a focus on reliability, durability, and operational efficiency with multiple outlet location options, the vehicle reflects Marshall Lethlean’s ongoing commitment to innovation in the bulk liquid and Cryogenic transport market. This landmark launch is further strengthened by its alignment with global industry leaders such as Air Liquide, whose contribution to the advancement of cryogenic production, storage, and distribution continues to shape the future of the sector. As one of the world’s leading innovators in industrial gases and clean energy solutions, Air Liquide has invested heavily in cryogenic technologies, infrastructure, and emerging applications, helping to accelerate the transition toward a more sustainable energy landscape.

Get in touch today to discover how Marshall Lethlean can accelerate your Cryogenic road transport and storage system solutions. Let us accelerate your Cryogenic green energy strategies with tailored solutions designed to drive efficiency, sustainability, and long-term results. Garry Brennan | M 0438 684 913 | E garry.brennan@mli.com.au


News

Cartage Australia sees exponential growth Cartage Australia has experienced a significant period of growth over the last 18 months. From its established operations in Victoria, the business has continued to expand its footprint and capability by establishing substantial new operations across South Australia and Queensland. In SA, Cartage Australia has established an Adelaide operation with a dedicated fleet of 10 trucks – creating a strong platform for continued growth across the state. Meanwhile, the business’ Queensland

operation has grown rapidly to a fleet of 40plus trucks, with operations now spanning Gold Coast, Brisbane, Ipswich, Toowoomba and Hervey Bay. Alongside its fleet and geographic expansion, Cartage Australia has now grown to a team of approximately 300 employees across the business. “While the numbers tell part of the story, what we’re most proud of is what sits behind them,” said Cartage Australia National Operations Manager, Caleb Vella. “Our growth has been built on the support

A portion of Cartage Australia’s fleet. Image: Cartage Australia.

of our people, drivers and contractors, the trust of our customers and a commitment to providing safe, reliable and efficient transport solutions wherever we operate. “As our footprint grows, our objective remains the same – maintain the responsiveness and service our customers expect while continuing to build the systems, people and fleet required to operate at a national scale.”

Aurizon opens $60M Perth terminal A new $60 million freight terminal in Perth is set to improve the movement of freight between Western Australia and the eastern states while creating opportunities for more efficient road and rail integration. Aurizon has officially opened its new Kewdale Terminal in Perth, a purposebuilt intermodal facility designed to accommodate longer interstate freight trains and support growing freight volumes moving between Western Australia and the eastern states. Located within Perth’s key freight and logistics precinct, the 18.8-hectare site replaces Aurizon’s existing Forrestfield terminal, which has reached capacity amid increasing demand for interstate freight services. According to Aurizon Managing Director and CEO, Andrew Harding, the new facility has been designed to boost network capacity while improving the efficiency of freight movements for customers operating across the national supply chain. “Everything from supermarket goods and consumer products to industrial inputs and motor vehicles move on interstate rail freight services and as the economy and consumer demand continues to grow, so does the volume of freight we transport for our customers,” Harding said. “Perth is a critical node for these services and supports the high-volume EastWest corridor. “We have outgrown our existing terminal at Forrestfield and this new terminal will

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have more capacity for longer trains delivering vital goods in and out of Western Australia.” For road transport operators, the development highlights the increasing importance of integrated intermodal networks, where freight moves efficiently between rail services and last-mile truck operations. The Kewdale Terminal can accommodate double-stacked interstate freight trains up to 1.8 kilometres in length without the need for trains to be broken apart or shunted during loading and unloading operations. “This increases loading and unloading times ensuring our customers get their products to market faster,” Harding said. Just as significant for trucking fleets servicing the facility is the improved site layout and vehicle access. Harding noted the terminal has been designed with better truck connectivity and provides opportunities for co-located logistics and warehousing operations within the precinct. “The 18.8-hectare site also provides for improved truck access and opportunities for co-located logistics operations in the precinct,” he said. As freight volumes continue to rise, many transport operators are looking for ways to improve productivity while reducing congestion and turnaround times. Intermodal facilities such as Kewdale are increasingly viewed as critical infrastructure that allows long-haul freight

to move efficiently by rail while maintaining flexibility through road transport for first and last-mile delivery tasks. Aurizon’s former Forrestfield site will now be repurposed to support the company’s growing national motor vehicle distribution network, creating additional capacity across another key freight segment. Harding said the opening of the terminal as a major milestone for both Aurizon and Western Australia’s freight network. “The new Kewdale Terminal is part of our investment to help our customers with increased capacity, efficiency and flexibility in moving their freight nationwide, helping power Australian households and the national economy,” he said. While the investment is expected to support greater rail utilisation on the east-west corridor, Harding emphasised that broader supply chain benefits would also flow to road users through reduced congestion and improved safety outcomes. “It will also help shift more freight from road to rail and that will deliver enormous benefits in helping reduce emissions, congestion on our roads and safety risks for motorists,” said Harding. The Kewdale Terminal was officially opened by Western Australian Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Transport and Major Infrastructure, Rita Saffioti, who joined customers, industry partners and stakeholders to mark the launch of the facility.


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News

Greenfreight divests highway business National forestry and lineal contract carrier, Greenfreight, has announced that it has sold the majority of its highway business to a ‘large national transport and logistics company’. The announcement was made by the Green family in a statement online, where it revealed the business will continue operating with a focus on its specialist transport services. “With more than 50 years of history behind our family business, this has been an incredibly difficult decision,” the Green family said. “It follows several months of careful consideration and planning, amid rising

fuel costs, the impact of January’s devastating fires, ongoing pressure on freight rates and softer demand across the economy. “While this marks a significant change for Greenfreight, it allows us to focus on our specialist operations and the next chapter of our family business.” Greenfreight was founded in 1973 by Fred Green and commenced operations in the Myrtleford area of Victoria. Since then, the company has expanded its service capabilities, specialising in the transportation of general freight, bulk flour, softwood and Fast Moving Consumable Goods (FMCG).

It also provides ‘value-added’ services such as warehousing as well as local freight deliveries. Greenfreight has been working closely with the new owner and its supporting contractors to transition the affected operations in the business – supporting employees and customers through the process. “We sincerely thank our employees, customers, suppliers and the wider transport community for their loyalty and support over the years,” the Green family said. “The relationships we have built mean a great deal to our family.”

A Greenfreight semi-trailer. Image: Greenfreight.

Direct Freight Express expands in SA Direct Freight Express has announced the opening of a new depot in Berri, South Australia. The new Berri location further expands the Direct Freight Express network while strengthening its service across Australia.

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Direct Freight Express said the additional location will provide greater network connectivity for reliable freight solutions. “This expansion is another step in the continued growth of the Direct Freight Express network and our commitment to

supporting businesses across regional Australia,” the company said. “We’re excited to become part of the Riverland community and look forward to supporting the businesses and customers of Berri and the surrounding region.”


50 YEARS OF BUILDING BETTER Krueger Kurtainers combine Australian-made strength with versatile curtain-sided access, helping operators load and unload faster, reduce turnaround times and maximise productivity. Delivering ease of use, durability, flexibility and safety for the Australian Freight Industry.

Using world class engineering, Krueger Skels are built for strength, durability and maximum payload efficiency. Offering long term reliable performance, versatile container handling and the confidence operators need to maximise loads and keep freight moving.

Krueger KVans are purpose-built for efficient dry freight transport with customisable configurations to suit dedicated freight tasks. Features such as heavy-duty flooring, reinforced threshold plates and flexible door options simplify loading and unloading to ensure accessibility and durability for demanding line-haul operations.

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News

ERH Refrigerated Transport partners with Healthy Heads

An ERH Refrigerated Transport build. Image: ERH Refrigerated Transport.

ERH Refrigerated Transport has joined forces with Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds (HHTS) as a supporting Corporate Partner. ERH Refrigerated Transport provides reliable and innovative refrigerated transport, storage and cold chain solutions for food manufacturers, retailers and supply chain managers across the eastern seaboard. With a strong focus on safety, technology and reliability, it plays an important role in keeping Australia’s food and supply chains moving. “For Healthy Heads, partnerships with businesses across the transport industry create opportunities to strengthen the focus on the health and wellbeing of the people behind these essential services,” HHTS said. “ERH’s commitment to safety and its role in road transport align closely with our work to support healthier, safer workplaces.” By becoming a supporting Corporate Partner of HHTS, ERH Refrigerated Transport has committed to improving mental health and physical wellbeing across the road transport, warehousing and logistics sectors. “We look forward to working with ERH to promote mental health, wellbeing and practical support across our industry,” HHTS said.

Alpha Linehaul expands B-triple network Alpha Linehaul has announced a new ongoing partnership with CTI Logistics to support freight movements between Sydney and Perth. Under the agreement, Alpha Linehaul will operate B-triple combinations in both directions, providing dedicated transport capacity to meet CTI Logistics’ network requirements across the transcontinental route. According to Alpha Linehaul General Manager, Ray Spiteri, the partnership reflects the company’s customer-focused approach to linehaul operations. “At Alpha Linehaul, our approach is simple, listen to our customers and understand where they need us most,”

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Trailer Magazine NOVEMBER 2026

he said. “It’s about putting the right equipment, people and resources where the demand is, adapting our operation and providing support where it’s needed.” The agreement, according to Spiteri, is an important milestone for the business as it continues to grow its national freight network. “This ongoing agreement represents another significant step forward for Alpha Linehaul and reinforces our commitment to delivering reliable, flexible and customerfocused linehaul solutions across Australia,” he said. The company will provide dedicated B-triple linehaul services between

Sydney and Perth as part of the long-term arrangement, designed to support CTI Logistics’ freight requirements across the corridor. Spiteri also acknowledged the efforts of those involved in securing the agreement, thanking Alpha Linehaul owner Tejwant Bajwa, Nigel Pretyman and Dannii Spiteri for their contribution to the project. He also thanked CTI Logistics for its confidence in the business. “We also sincerely thank CTI Logistics for putting their trust in Alpha Linehaul,” said Spiteri. “We’re looking forward to building a strong, successful and long-term partnership together.”


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News

VTA welcomes new Executive Council members The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has elected Murray Butterworth and Cameron Trewin to its Executive Council. Butterworth and Trewin bring extensive industry experience, proven leadership and a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges shaping Australia’s freight, logistics and transport sectors. Butterworth is the current Chair of the Victorian Waste Management Association (VWMA) and General Manager Recycling at Alex Fraser. A highly respected industry leader, he has played a significant role in advancing sustainability, resource

recovery and circular economy initiatives across Australia. Through his leadership, Alex Fraser’s recycling operations process more than three million tonnes of material annually, supporting more sustainable infrastructure and construction outcomes. As President Intermodal at Linfox, Trewin leads one of Australia’s largest intermodal freight operations overseeing road, rail and coastal shipping services nationwide. Having progressed through a range of senior management roles within Linfox, he brings extensive expertise in supply chain management, logistics strategy

and multimodal freight operations. “The addition of Murray and Cameron further strengthens the depth and diversity of expertise represented on the VTA Executive Council,” said VTA Chief Executive Officer, Peter Anderson. “Their collective experience across transport, logistics, sustainability, infrastructure and supply chain management will provide valuable insights as the Association continues its work advocating for a strong, safe and sustainable industry. “We look forward to working closely with Murray and Cameron as we continue to champion the interests of Victoria’s transport and logistics sector.”

JOST names new APAC CEO JOST World has confirmed a leadership transition in its Asia Pacific operations, with CEO APAC Region and Head of Business Line Hydraulics, Alex Tan, set to depart at the end of 2026. Tan will leave the company on 31 December 2026 after more than 20 years with the business, having joined Hyva in 2003 before its integration into JOST World. During his tenure, he played a key role in establishing Hyva’s operations in China and later held senior leadership positions including Vice President of Hyva Asia and CEO of Hyva Group. Following the Hyva acquisition, Tan helped strengthen JOST’s footprint across the Asia-Pacific region while serving as a member of the company’s Global Management Board. To ensure continuity, JOST has appointed Dr Rick Hilchner as CEO APAC Region effective 1 October 2026. Based in Singapore, Hilchner will work alongside Tan during the fourth quarter of 2026 to oversee a smooth transition before formally assuming the role in January. Hilchner joins JOST with extensive experience across the automotive and industrial sectors in both Europe and Asia. Most recently, he served as Managing Director, Vice President, President and Chairman of the Board of

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Trailer Magazine NOVEMBER 2026

Hyva CEO, Alex Tan, and JOST World CEO, Joachim Dürr. Image: Prime Creative Media.

Bosch Automotive Thailand. During a 14-year career with Bosch, he held a variety of senior management positions and led multiple business growth and transformation initiatives across the region. As part of his new responsibilities, Hilchner will also join JOST’s Global Management Board. The leadership change comes as JOST

continues to expand its presence in the Asia-Pacific market, which remains strategically important for the global supplier of transport, agricultural and industrial systems. JOST said the transition reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting customers and partners throughout the region while further strengthening its regional capabilities and market position.


Freight Assist Australia appoints Dwayne Hayes as COO Freight Assist Australia has appointed Dwayne Hayes as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. Over the past three years, Hayes has played an increasingly important role across Freight Assist Australia’s operations and the broader business as General Manager. He joined the company in 2023 after spending nine years at Linfox in several positions, including National Business Manager. According to Freight Assist Australia, Hayes’ leadership, commitment and contribution have continued to evolve alongside Freight Assist Australia Group, extending well beyond the traditional scope of his role. “This appointment recognises the significant responsibility Dwayne already

Dwayne Hayes. Image: Freight Assist Australia.

holds within the business, as well as his continued involvement in operational performance, business improvement initiatives and the ongoing growth and development of FAA Group,”

the company said. “We’re proud to recognise Dwayne’s contribution with this next step in his leadership journey and look forward to what lies ahead.”


Economy

Port of call Pilbara Ports has announced a significant project to bolster the Port of Ashburton. Pilbara Ports is progressing key infrastructure upgrades at the Port of Ashburton to strengthen operational resilience and maintain safe, sustainable port operations. The projects include the delivery of a permanent water and fire system for the Ashburton Cargo Wharf and planned sand bypassing works to manage sediment accumulation and maintain natural coastal processes. Pilbara Ports CEO, Samuel McSkimming, said the projects represented an important investment in the port’s facilities. “We are investing in infrastructure that will support industry, enhance safety and ensure the port remains well-positioned for the future,” he said. The Ashburton Foundation Water and Fire Project will establish a sustainable potable water supply and a permanent fire water system for the port by January 2027. The project includes the installation of a seawater desalination plant, expansion of the existing firefighting network and construction of a new fire water tank. Once complete, it will significantly strengthen emergency response capability at the Ashburton Cargo Wharf while providing a reliable water source to support port users, cargo operations and future industrial activity. Pilbara Ports is also progressing plans for sand bypassing works after monitoring undertaken in October 2025 confirmed sediment accumulation west of the Ashburton Cargo Wharf had reached

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Trailer Magazine NOVEMBER 2026

The Port of Ashburton. Image: Pilbara Ports.

trigger levels under the Port’s Coastal Processes Monitoring and Management Plan. The works will involve transferring accumulated sand from the western side of the wharf to approved areas on the eastern side, using hydraulic pumping methods, allowing the sand to re-enter the natural coastal system. The project will begin early 2027 under an approved Sand Bypassing Environmental Management Plan. McSkimming said the project formed an important part of Pilbara Ports environmental management responsibilities.

“Sand bypassing is a well-established coastal management practice that helps maintain natural shoreline processes while protecting port infrastructure and navigational access,” he said. “The sand bypassing project will help minimise impacts on sensitive environmental features, including the East Ashburton Delta and Hooley Creek, while supporting the safe and efficient operation of the port.” Both projects form part of Pilbara Ports ongoing commitment to delivering safe, sustainable and efficient port infrastructure that supports Western Australia’s resource sector and regional economy.

AUSTRALIAN CONSUMER CONFIDENCE

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Nov

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Jan 2026

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0.4%

4.7%

4.6%

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Unemployment rate September 2026

Interest rate September 2026

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Modern road tankers

Images: Tieman Tankers.

Tieman steel 37CM cement tanker – Southern Sons.

One-stop tanker shop Tieman Tankers has expanded with a complete dry bulk tanker range, adding steel to its aluminium offering. Tieman Tankers has proudly introduced a new range of steel dry bulk tankers to its product offering. Complementing its proven O.ME.P.S aluminium dry bulk tanker range, this now provides customers in Australia and New Zealand with a complete dry bulk transport solution. Since 2008, Tieman has partnered with O.ME.P.S, Europe’s leading aluminium dry bulk tanker manufacturer in Italy. Each year, Tieman proudly delivers O.ME.P.S lightweight tankers to major fleets throughout Australia. Their proven design, including unique bolted steel suspension hangers, has stood the test

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of time, while lightweight construction delivers optimum payload every load – particularly for operators completing multiple loads per shift. The O.ME.P.S barrel construction also has a number of design features which strengthen highstress areas internally to eliminate costly repairs occurring in the future. Customers can also choose between traditional aerators or aeration cloths, the latter which can provide faster discharge times and reduced maintenance cost over the operational life of the tanker. Importantly, Tieman’s and O.ME.P.S’ ability to customise each tanker design means every specification can be tailored

to suit individual operating requirements. Whether it’s for cement, fly ash, lime, stock feed, flour, sugar, starch or soda ash, Tieman and O.ME.P.S have a quality solution for every industry. “Tieman also recognises that many operators in the dry bulk industry simply do prefer steel construction over aluminium,” says Tieman Tankers Director, Colin Tieman. “This has underpinned Tieman’s decision to invest in our new steel range to offer a one-stop shop for the whole industry.” True to Tieman’s 75-year ‘built to last’ reputation, every Tieman steel dry bulk tanker is engineered in-house


Tieman steel 37CM complete with polished stainless steel airlines. L-R: Col Tieman and Geordie Fairweather.

Tieman steel cement 20m BD/PBS 63T GCM 3D design in build for Central Concrete Australia.

Aluminium O.ME.P.S 47CM PBS cement/fly ash tanker.

with durability, safety and long-term performance at its core. A full range of tankers from singles to B-doubles to road trains are now on offer, with competitive delivery times for custom designed tankers. The experienced in-house Tieman engineering team uses advanced finite element analysis (FEA) to stress test critical components and optimise every design for strength, reliability and compliance before production begins. The confidence in the engineering and construction of the steel tanker range is also reflected in their extended warranty on offer. “As demand now continues to grow for both our aluminium and steel dry bulk tankers, we have further strengthened our engineering capability by adding additional design engineers to our team,” Colin says. “Geordie Fairweather, our Business Development Manager – Dry Bulk, has nearly 30 years of experience

Aluminium O.ME.P.S 42CM cement tanker.

in both steel and aluminium dry bulk tankers, and there is no one better to assist our engineers in making sure our designs are user friendly and importantly work with the quickest discharge times. Using advanced 3D design software, our customers can also review their tanker design in detail before the build commences. “Our reputation for our bulk liquid tankers in stainless steel and aluminium has been built on industry best quality since 1953. The reason we partnered with O.ME.P.S in 2008 was because of their industry best quality, and our plan for guaranteeing highest quality for our steel dry bulk range is no different. The detailed processes that have been put into place for both design and manufacturing our new steel range is something we are very proud to have our name on.” Tieman’s commitment continues well beyond delivery, providing

comprehensive local after-sales support, experienced technical assistance and an extensive range of dry bulk spare parts to minimise downtime and keep fleets operating. Additionally, both aluminium and steel pressure vessels can also be repaired in-house by Tieman’s qualified pressure vessel welders. Tieman offers both prescriptive and innovative Performance-Based Standards (PBS) combinations across both aluminium and steel ranges, supported by its own inhouse, end-to-end PBS technical expertise at no additional cost to their customers. “With multiple aluminium and steel dry bulk combinations currently in production”, Colin says, “we welcome customers to visit to see firsthand the engineering, final build quality and local support behind our full range of dry bulk tankers”.

Contact

Tieman Tankers Web: www.tieman.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

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Modern road tankers

Air Liquide increases fleet capabilities Air Liquide is continuing to expand its carbon dioxide transport capabilities through a new Marshall Lethlean tanker investment. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is key to a variety of applications across many industries. Being an essential gas used across food production, industrial manufacturing, medicine and environmental management, managing the transport of the chemical compound requires expertise and precision around specialised engineering, hazardous material handling and logistics skills. As a world leader in gases and technologies for industry and health, Air Liquide prides itself for its ability to supply carbon dioxide to a wide range of industries, customers and applications in a safe and efficient manner. With a solidified presence in Australia and decades of experience in the international market, the business has mastered

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delivering gas solutions and technologies designed to support customer efficiency and operational performance. “Carbon dioxide is one of Air Liquide’s core products,” says Air Liquide Senior Engineer – Pacific, Stephen Crawford. “Our supply network across multiple states enables us to service our customers reliably and efficiently.” Air Liquide continues to drive its carbon dioxide business by safely and efficiently meeting customers’ needs. The latest addition to its specialised range of equipment is a carbon dioxide tanker from Marshall Lethlean. “The tanker has the ability to be unload via the left, right or rear of the unit,” Stephen says. “This provides us with a lot of flexibility for different customer layouts.

“The pump can divert to either side or the back of the tanker due to the onboard plumbing, meaning customers don’t need to have all their connections on one side, for example. It’s very similar to a lot of the other vehicles in our fleet, but we’re diversifying our supply base.” This tanker marks an internal fleet milestone for Air Liquide, joining previous Marshall Lethlean units built for different applications. “We’re hoping it will behave exactly the same as our other tankers,” Stephen says. “By joining our existing fleet and performing to our standards, this unit adds to the pool of equipment powering our capabilities in the carbon dioxide market.” Air Liquide’s carbon dioxide tanker


Air Liquide’s new carbon dioxide tanker from Marshall Lethlean.

Images: Marshall Lethlean.

This tanker marks an internal fleet milestone for Air Liquide.

will predominantly be based in Victoria, tasked with the responsibility of moving product out of its Longford and Lang Lang sites to different customers across the food and beverage, metal fabrication, water treatment and oil and gas industries. “It’s a flexible asset that will primarily deliver product from our Victorian sources to local customers,” Stephen says. According to Stephen, Marshall Lethlean was selected as the successful candidate for this prototype build due

to its expertise and past dealings with Air Liquide. “Marshall Lethlean is owned by CIMC Vehicles Group whom Air Liquide has a longstanding relationship with,” he says. “This was coupled with Marshall Lethlean’s proven knowledge of Australia’s DG transport requirements.”

Contact

Marshall Lethlean 20 Whitfield Blvd, Cranbourne West VIC 3977 Ph: 03 9797 2100 Web: www.mli.com.au

The unit is a polyurethane insulated, stainless steel pressure vessel with an onboard pump and flow metre designed to simplify the delivery of carbon dioxide.

www.trailermag.com.au

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Modern road tankers

Rollover detected, power disconnected Liquip has launched the fifth generation RS500 Rollover Sensor, its latest and greatest innovation designed to further increase road tanker safety and efficiency. Liquip has long been at the forefront of designing, developing and manufacturing fluid transfer and storage equipment for the tanker, terminal, aviation and military sectors. The official launch of its new RS500 Rollover Sensor now reinforces that commitment, proving once again that continuous improvement and innovation are at the heart of everything Liquip does. As Liquip’s latest generation of rollover

sensor technology, the RS500 is engineered to deliver higher accuracy, faster installation and the reliability operators trust and depend on. Featuring automotive grade components, an increased IP-rated housing and built-in Bluetooth connectivity, this new sensor provides fleets with unmatched, real-time operational visibility across Dangerous Goods (DG) transport and heavy vehicle applications.

The RS500 was engineered specifically for operators requiring dependable rollover protection in high-risk transport applications. It allows users to meet the compliance requirements of rollover sensing (Australian Standard AS 2809:1:2023) while providing a major step forward in rollover protection technology. Featuring dual processors, dual accelerometers and single fault tolerant Images: Liquip. Liquip’s RS500 Rollover Sensor.

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relay controls, the RS500 sensor continuously cross-verifies data to maximise accuracy and reliability. If a rollover event occurs, it signals the Battery Isolation Switch (BIS) to isolate electrical power sources, helping minimise the risk of ignition and improving overall vehicle safety. The innovation also incorporates advanced inbuilt filters, resisting high vibration, power surges and preventing accidental shutdowns by rejecting any reading that would not result in a rollover, such as bumps. Proudly manufactured in Wetherill Park, New South Wales, and supported by a comprehensive nationwide service network, the new sensor highlights Liquip’s enduring commitment to local engineering and embodies the brand’s core pillars – safety, reliability, compliance and cuttingedge innovation. “We wanted to leverage over a decade of manufacturing experience with our RS400 to deliver a next-generation rollover sensor, capable of providing best-in-class safety and reliability for the harsh operational conditions experienced on a road tanker,” says Liquip International Electronics Value Stream Manager, Matt Farmer. “Our vision was to improve customer support and empower operators by integrating product self-diagnostics, event logging and cycle test features that could be securely accessed via an app and stored in a cloud database.” The RS500 Rollover Sensor incorporates increased functional safety architecture to ensure continuous fail-safe performance. Two key advancements are a single plug connection for quick and streamlined installation, and connectivity to the Liquip LEADR app which enables real-time commissioning, testing, reporting and auditing across fleets to improve vehicle safety and compliance. “The LEADR app can connect via Bluetooth to any synced RS500 unit in range, allowing operators, drivers and service technicians to immediately inspect real-time operational status such as live tilt angle, diagnostics and the test due date without requiring account registration,” Matt says. “Once registered, the platform delivers automated test due notifications, proactively reminding operators and fleet managers when periodic compliance inspections and functional testing are approaching.” Built for the harshest operating conditions,

The innovation represents Liquip’s continued focus on safety, innovation, reliability and compliance.

Liquip’s RS500 is housed in a fully sealed IP69K enclosure which offers the highest standard level of ingress protection – allowing the unit to withstand high-pressure and high-temperature jet washdowns. This upgraded protection level makes the sensor well suited for harsh industrial and road transport environments where performance cannot be compromised. The RS500 has EMC approval and has passed testing outlined in the United Nations ECE Regulation 10 (radiofrequency emissions), ISO 7637-2 (automotive transient immunity) and ISO 16750-2 (centralised load dump, starting profile immunity) standards. A key aspect of the RS500 is its compatibility. The rollover sensor was manufactured to the same size and electrical control inputs (12V and 24V) as its predecessor, and it ensures backwards compatibility with common BIS already supported by Liquip’s rollover sensors. This allows operators to easily upgrade from the RS400 to the new version while still maintaining a familiar operation. Furthermore, Liquip provides the RS500 with a pre-assembled plug harness to suit high power relay control applications as standard, with other harnesses to suit isolated low power relay control applications available. Liquip also utilised AEC-Q automotive grade components to increase the reliability of RS500’s electronics and offer a wider ambient temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. Additional operational features include an on-unit fault detection LED and optional dash-mounted indicator lamp for immediate fault visibility.

Ultimately, Liquip’s RS500 Rollover Sensor combines automotive-grade technology with intelligent diagnostics. “Authorised operators and technicians can perform and log scheduled functional tests manually or perform and leg more detailed functional tests through the LEADR app, with certified test reports automatically uploaded to its cloud database for long-term audit storage and compliance verification,” Matt says. “The app enables users to extract comprehensive operational data logs and upload them to the cloud. Users can also upgrade registered RS500s with authenticated Liquip firmware upgrades through the app, without having to open the RS500 enclosure and use a specialised tool or return the vehicle to a depot for costly maintenance.” Additionally, Liquip gives high-tier subscribers access to completed test reports, historical data logs and an online Telemetry Logs Analyser application via the LEADR website. There, fleet managers, engineers and critical stakeholders can visualise and explore trip events, roll profiles and long-term sensor telemetry for improved safety, advanced incident analysis and predictive fleet maintenance. Access to device registration management, executing and logging certified functional tests and syncing reports to the cloud remains restricted to the company’s authorised users.

Contact

Liquip International 148 Newton Road, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 Ph: 02 9725 9000 Web: www.liquip.com

www.trailermag.com.au

25


Low loaders

Images: Tuff Trailers.

Value driven Bloomfield Hay and Transport has taken delivery of a new 4x4 Low Loader Extendable Widener from Tuff Trailers. Bloomfield Hay and Transport is a privateowned family company specialising in a range of services within Australia’s agricultural transport and logistics sector. Managed by owners, Tony and Karina Bloomfield, the operation was originally established in 2002 as a local hay growing and contracting business that serviced the domestic and export markets. Today, it continues to provide hay sales and hay contracting services on a national scale, as well as distributing fodder, agricultural machinery, mining equipment, general and oversize freight. “We transport a lot of agricultural machinery as well as our own hay,” Tony says. “That takes us all over Australia. “We operate between central New South Wales and western Queensland, travelling across the Nullarbor Plain and into Walgett, NSW, as well as Cunnamulla and Burke in Queensland. They’re not the greatest of roads by any stretch of imagination,

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especially when you’re loaded wide and high. That makes your task somewhat difficult at times, so deck height is the biggest factor we chase.” That is predominantly why Bloomfield Hay and Transport decided to introduce a new low loader to its fleet alongside Tuff Trailers. “Tuff Trailers were more than willing to accommodate what we needed,” Tony says. “Nothing was a problem for them.” Bloomfield Hay and Transport’s trailer of choice is a 4x4 Extendable Widener. For Tony, the standout features of the build are its optimal deck height and 800-litre diesel tank and transfer system located on top of the chassis for accessibility benefits. “Tuff Trailers over-delivered on what we discussed,” he says. “They originally said the deck height would be around 920930mm, but it came in at 910mm. Twenty millimetres might not seem like much for a lot of people in this world, but when you’re carting high equipment, it’s key.

“We also wanted to fit a fuel tank on top of the frame like we’d normally have on a dolly. That was purely to get better access in fuel sites – in the past, we’ve loaded our trailers 5.2m high, 4.5m wide and 30m long, and bowsers weren’t always that accessible.” Tony says Tuff Trailers were more than happy to incorporate his requirements into the build. “Their ability to work with me was very impressive,” he says. “We went in and sat down with them to go through what we wanted, and they came back to me with a quote that afternoon. On top of that, Denis Di Pasquale told me what date we’d have the trailer, and he was pretty well on the mark.” Bloomfield Hay and Transport’s new Tuff Trailers Low Loader Extendable Widener features a Gross Combination Mass (GCM) of 59 tonnes and a payload of 30 tonnes, with the ability to add a 2x4 dolly and increase payload to approximately 44 tonnes. The deck itself has the ability to extend to four


Bloomfield Hay and Transport’s new Tuff Trailers 4x4 Low Loader Extendable Widener.

metres wide and operates at a length of 11.9m when closed and 16m when open. The chassis is complemented with an extendable beamset, a dolly-rated gooseneck with a 13-position sliding skid plate and Tuff Trailers ‘Low Rider’ bi-fold ramps which save up to 20 per cent diesel

due to their versatile design. Furthermore, specs completing the build include Armoury chrome-plated alloy wheels and stainless steel toolboxes and BPW airbag suspension and rear self-tracking axles. “We needed a quad-axle build because everything’s getting heavier in the agricultural space,” Tony says. “A John Deere X9 harvester is about 27 to 30 tonnes now. Ten years ago, the heaviest harvester you’d find was probably around 16 tonnes. “I also wanted to go back onto airbags because of the conditions on the roads, and self-steering axles on the rear to save space.” Bloomfield Hay and Transport is using the trailer to transport agricultural equipment such as harvesters, sprayers and field bins to various locations within the regions it operates. This includes visiting local farms for onsite pick-up and deliveries and travelling through rural towns, regional cities, capital cities and ports. Tony has been very impressed with the low loader’s performance so far. “It’s terrific,” he says. “The finish on the trailer is magnificent, and its usability is unbelievable. “Its ease of use is also fantastic – my wife even commented on how well it operates. The bi-fold ramps are really long, and that has made loading a lot easier because we don’t have to push equipment up a steep ramp compared to a single ramp.” According to Tony, Bloomfield Hay and

Transport’s customers have taken a significant liking to the new trailer as well. “Our customers have all been really happy with it so far,” he says. “The lower deck height has given them an advantage in terms of productivity and accessibility. “The trailer’s ease of use is even more of a benefit to us. It’s also going to require a lot less maintenance, that’s for sure.” Bloomfield Hay and Transport’s first unit from Tuff Trailers joins an operation dedicated to providing a professional and efficient service focused on client satisfaction. It turns out those values aligned perfectly with a trailer builder that has identical priorities. “In transport, it’s important to remember that while everyone is doing a similar job, it’s not always the same task,” Tony says. “You’re building a trailer to suit your situation, especially when it comes to machinery. That’s why we invest in good trailers – because they’re an asset to our business. “I can’t praise Tuff Trailers enough for the way they finished the product. Denis, Matt and David Dengate and Leigh Gerard have all been terrific to deal with, and I couldn’t recommend them highly enough for that.”

Contact

Tuff Trailers Ph: 07 3803 0232 Web: www.tuff trailers.com.au

The deck itself has the ability to extend to four metres wide.

www.trailermag.com.au

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Low loaders

Future focused

The Drake Group General Manager, Craig Lee.

Trailer speaks to Craig Lee, Group General Manager of The Drake Group, about the business’ year in review and its exciting plans for 2027. Two thousand twenty-six has been a positive year for The Drake Group. While the heavy vehicle market has continued to show signs of difficulty as a whole (with customers across Australia choosing to invest in additional equipment more carefully due to cash flow and fuel probability impacts and the overall state of the economy), the last 12 months have been very optimistic for Drake and its many brands from both a volume and expansion perspective. “The calendar year has been a great period for the business,” says The Drake Group Group General Manager, Craig Lee. “Investing in new equipment like jigs has allowed us to produce more trailers per annum. The clear objective there is increased throughput and decreased wait time, and we expect that to have benefits in growth and customer satisfaction into the future. “We’ve also significantly invested in our Dalzell and Bagley business to increase our speed and our throughput. That too has increased our ability to build additional volume and meet more customer demand. “Furthermore, we’ve invested in our Service and Repairs and Drake Parts businesses which have grown well

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alongside Drake Collectibles. So, it’s been a year of investment primarily focused on improving customer satisfaction and increasing the speed at which we can service end users.” Craig joined The Drake Group earlier this year in June with more than three decades of leadership experience across the trucking, manufacturing, mining and industrial sectors. He spent the past 11 years with Penske Australia and New Zealand, and prior to that, worked in Australian manufacturing with Pact Group and earlier built extensive domestic and international experience within the oil industry. For Craig, joining The Drake Group represented an opportunity to work with a respected Australian familyowned manufacturer whose reputation had long stood out within the heavy vehicle industry. “One of the things that really attracted me to Drake was that it was a solid, family values-driven business,” he says. “That resonates really well with our customer base too – it’s that real personal interaction that the company has built and continues to provide.” After increasing its capacity across the

board, The Drake Group expanded into new facilities within Western Australia that are now better suited for large trailer repair work. Simultaneously, new machining, painting and blasting equipment have made these operations more efficient. “We’ve ultimately been able to react to customers’ needs faster,” Craig says. “We expect that to continue to flow through to our speed and our growth.” Each of The Drake Group’s investments during 2026 were aimed at increasing quality and efficiency. Now, the business will continue to employ more processes over the next few years that will support the transport industry tremendously. Headlining this will be the launch of a next-generation product next year at the 2027 Brisbane Truck Show. “We’re designing a new trailer which is an improved version of our current product,” Craig reveals. “Operators will receive increased functionality, higher performance and better versatility. “It’s extremely exciting. We have put a lot of engineering, research and development into something that will help customers have greater flexibility within their portfolio.” Another key priority for The Drake Group


in 2027 will be to bolster its team. Craig says the company is currently searching for highly skilled individuals which will contribute to an already established team of dedicated personnel. “We’re looking to recruit people for some key roles within the company,” he says. “Finding employees that really connect to the industry is very important, so we want to bring people into this organisation who understand the challenges our customers are experiencing.” There’s also great potential for the business to advance further in WA. “WA will be a real growth opportunity for us in the coming years,” Craig says. “We’re about to appoint a key person to oversee that part of the market for us, and we will continue to provide solutions like the Swinglift and BoXLoader products to mining houses and their customers.” Ultimately, The Drake Group’s investments will be focused on long-term performance. “It’s an exciting time for the business,” Craig says. “Although the market continues to be challenging, we’re differentiated to the point that we have enough markets to support and expand in. “From a macro market perspective, I

think everything road transport related will continue to be quite challenging, and that’s something we as an industry need to keep an eye on. But The Drake Group has great brands, technology and people, and we’re continuing to commit to those things so that we can continue to grow.”

Contact

The Drake Group 19 Formation Street Wacol QLD 4076 Ph: 07 3271 5888 Web: www.thedrakegroup.com.au

A Bowers Heavy Haulage low loader made by The Drake Group.

Images: The Drake Group.

“It’s been a year of investment primarily focused on improving customer satisfaction and increasing the speed at which we can service end users.”

A Drake trailer in production.

www.trailermag.com.au

29


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Trailer builder

Rock solid When Goldstar Transport needed trailers in less than 40 days to fulfil a major contract, Krueger delivered an unconventional solution that reinforced a partnership built on more than 15 years of trust. For transport operators, securing large volumes of equipment at short notice is rarely straightforward. New trailer build slots can stretch months into the future, creating challenges for fleets that need to mobilise quickly. For Goldstar Transport, that challenge became a reality when it secured a significant freight task and required trailers almost immediately. According to Managing Director, Sean Carren, Krueger stepped in with an approach that went beyond supplying new equipment. Instead, the trailer manufacturer and aftermarket specialist coordinated the acquisition and refurbishment of a fleet of second-hand trailers, enabling Goldstar Transport to meet the tight deadline and commence operations as planned. “Krueger facilitated the recovery of the trailers, the refurbishment and getting them into Goldstar colours and Western Australia road train specification,” Sean says. “The work they did to refurbish them, to get Goldstar load restraint curtains on them and everything done that needed to be done, was second to none.” The trailers had previously operated on the east coast and required significant preparation before entering service in WA. Krueger’s national service division carried out extensive refurbishment work, including fitting new load restraint-rated curtains, replacing worn components, attending to brakes and wheels, completing roadworthy requirements and modifying units to meet WA road train specifications. While the work may have appeared straightforward on paper, the scale and timeframe presented a substantial challenge. “The major part about it is the relationship between Krueger and Goldstar is very strong,” Sean says. The project was particularly important because Goldstar had secured a new transport operation. As new trailer

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build lead times proved too long, the refurbishment program provided a practical pathway to rapidly expand capacity and meet customer commitments. Sean says the speed of execution ultimately made the difference. “Krueger did it very promptly and proficiently, based on the fact that new build times off any manufacturer were too far out,” he says. “We got trailers in time to start the job. Normally we’d like around three months to get ready for a job. This one, we had within 40-43 days.” The success of the project highlighted the strength of Krueger’s aftermarket and repair capabilities – an area Sean believes deserves equal recognition alongside the company’s manufacturing operations. “The Krueger repair piece was phenomenal,” he says. “They gave the Goldstar team regular updates on where the trailers were at, so we knew that we could dispatch them to Perth as soon as they were finished.” The communication and transparency throughout the refurbishment program provided confidence that deadlines would be achieved and equipment would be ready when required. “I was a bit dubious about doing it at the start,” Sean admits. “Everybody tells you they can do something, but when they actually do it, it really makes you feel good.” The refurbishment initiative is only one chapter in a much broader relationship between the two companies. Goldstar has been purchasing Krueger equipment for approximately 15 years and today operates hundreds of the manufacturer’s trailers throughout its fleet. During the past year alone, Goldstar acquired multiple trailers from Krueger across several product categories, including skels, flat tops and Kurtainers. For Sean, that loyalty to Krueger extends beyond the trailers. “That goes back to the people,” he says.

Krueger’s national service division carried out extensive refurbishment work for Goldstar, including fitting new load restraint rated curtains, replacing worn components, attending to brakes and wheels and completing roadworthy requirements.

“They are rock solid.” Sean added that while the product quality is exceptional, it is the consistency of relationships and the company’s ability to understand Goldstar’s operational requirements that are equally important. “Krueger knows what we want,” Sean says. “They know what standard we set and there’s no grey area around it. They’re really good at meeting our expectations – exceeding them, to be honest.” That understanding is reflected in Goldstar’s ongoing equipment strategy. Standardising trailing equipment, according to Sean, creates efficiencies across maintenance, driver training and day-to-day operations, particularly as fleets continue to grow. “Krueger’s product really makes it easy for our people,” he says. “When you’ve got too many different types of trailers, it just makes it too hard.” The partnership has also benefited from Krueger’s growing presence in WA. The company’s Perth branch was established partly to support customers like Goldstar through expanded aftermarket service, spare parts support and trailer lifecycle management. Sean says having experienced local personnel on the ground has added significant value to his business. “They know the WA conditions and the market,” he says. “Having that availability of


Images: Krueger. A new ‘Goldstar spec’ trailer off the factory floor and ready to hit the road.

knowledge on the ground has been a real advantage to us.” The Perth operation has also created stronger support pathways for used trailer management and aftermarket services, helping operators maximise equipment value across the lifecycle of their assets. Ultimately, partnerships such as the one between Goldstar and Krueger are about much more than equipment purchases. “I’m grateful for the trust Goldstar places in us,” says Krueger Regional Manager WA, Nigel Withnell. “We’re proud to support them every step of the way, from the initial sale and specification of equipment through to the ongoing service and support that keeps their fleet moving. “As one of our biggest customers in

the west, our relationship is built on understanding their operation, finding the right solutions for their business and being there when they need us.” In a competitive transport environment, Sean says strong supplier relationships provide certainty, continuity and confidence when pursuing new opportunities. “It’s really important that they see continuity,” he says. “Whether you’re a supplier or somebody Goldstar provides services to, it’s important that you see the continuity of relationships because that’s what builds a culture around looking after our people and looking after our customer.” For Goldstar, the recent refurbishment project demonstrated exactly what that

continuity looks like in practice. Faced with an aggressive mobilisation deadline, Krueger leveraged its repair expertise, aftermarket capabilities and local support network to put safe, compliant and productive equipment on the road when it was needed most. “When you go to see someone about a job, they tend to ask whether you can get everything together,” Sean says. “We have rock solid partners that have been with us for 15 years, and there’s no grey area about being able to get the job done.”

Contact

Krueger Transport Equipment Ph: 03 8331 6100 Web: www.krueger.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

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Trailer builder

Beefing up WW Farms has invested in a new end tipper road train combination from Gippsland Body Builders. Within Arthur River, Western Australia, WW Farms is a broad acre farm specialising in cereal grains as well as lamb and sheep production. Established in 2018, it follows a family tradition carried across many generations. For the Manuel family behind WW Farms and its predecessors, farming is something that runs in its DNA. “We moved from the eastern Wheatbelt to Arthur River in the 1970s and have been farming ever since,” said WW Farms owner, Alan Manuel. “I started my own farming operation in 2011, and prior to that, my father and his father were farming. “Now, my son is commencing his journey and slowly taking over my business as I step back a bit – I’m hoping to do a bit less farm work and a bit more on the grain carting side.” WW Farms’ predominant freight task includes producing and moving canola, oats, barley, wheat and hay. The

operation distributes the majority of its grain to CBH Group and Bunge, a global leader in agribusiness which then exports the product out of Arthur River and Bunbury. To bolster these operations, WW Farms recent invested in a new road train combination of end tippers from Gippsland Body Builders (GBB). Despite being located on the opposite side of the country, Alan says it was fate that brought the two players together for this new investment. “It sort of fell into place,” he says. “I didn’t intend on buying a trailer from GBB, and they weren’t insisting on selling one to us. It just happened organically. “Our other GBB trailer needed some repairs, and Ryan Worrall was helping us out. He was very responsive, and that led to me ordering a new set off him – even though he’s in Victoria and we’re in WA.” Despite the distance between Alan and Ryan, designing and manufacturing

the new road train was completely collaborative. To begin the process, Alan used Artificial Intelligence (AI) to generate a concept based on images of a recent tipper build from GBB’s Facebook page and a photo of his own truck in his front yard. From there, he adjusted the size of the trailers to be the same height as his truck and applied his own fleet colours. “I also used it to calculate the tonnes and how many trips each trailer would work,” he says. “Our oats are a lot lighter, so the bulk density is also a lot lighter. That means you’re either compromising on your oat tonnage or you get a trailer that’s too tall to go into your bins and sways around everywhere. Or, you can get somewhere in the middle, which is what I’ve done to capture both.” Alan then left it to Ryan and his talented team to engineer and manufacture the road train in-house in their Gippsland facility. “I sent all that information to Ryan, WW Farms’ new Gippsland Body Builders end tipper road train.

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Trailer Magazine NOVEMBER 2026


along with some plans on the type of combinations that work over here, and he was quite receptive to it all,” he says. “He went by everything I sent him and he made it happen.” Although the task of catering to various customer needs with high-quality builds can be difficult and demanding, GBB is able to achieve it by completing every step of the trailer building process in-house. This gives Ryan and the team complete control over the whole process, as seen with this latest project. “We are responsible for every aspect of our manufacturing and aftersales processes, from the customer’s phone call and quoting to engineering, delivery and aftersales support,” Ryan says. “By controlling

every part of our trailer production, it is much easier to implement changes to our processes or instil a new direction.” As the road train neared completion, Alan travelled to GBB’s factory to inspect the build in person. He says he was very impressed after seeing his initial idea come to life. “It was good to see the trailer before it was completed,” he says. “GBB were very obliging – they showed us around and allowed us to spend as much time as we wanted to there. “They’re very nice trailers. I’ve already owned one, so I know what they’re like and I know what to expect. GBB have a very good product, and I’d recommend it.” The end result is a highly productive

tipper road train tailored to WW Farms’ exact needs. “Aside from the standard features, I requested for cameras to be fitted into the bins and rear of the combination,” Alan says. “I also got the sides made a little bit taller so that we don’t have to overflow the trailer to get loads like canola and barley in. “This is my first brand-new GBB build, and it’s a beautiful trailer combination. It was very well made and spec’d out, which is a nod towards GBB.”

Contact

Gippsland Body Builders Ph: 03 5625 5580 Web: www.gippslandbodybuilders.com.au

WW Farms chose to collaborate with Gippsland Body Builders for this build despite being on the opposite end of the country.

Images: Prime Creative Media.

www.trailermag.com.au

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Trailer builder

Passing the baton Victoria-based transport manufacturer, CTE-Custom Transport Equipment, has entered a new era under new leadership. Image: Prime Creative Media.

CTE Managing Director, Stijn De Vriendt, and founder, Darren Cook.

CTE-Custom Transport Equipment (CTE) is a leading manufacturer of heavy transport equipment in Drouin, Victoria, which specialises in designing and engineering premium tilt slide truck bodies and heavy transport trailers for Australia’s transport industry. The business was founded in 2007 by Darren Cook who drew on two decades of experience designing and manufacturing specialised transport equipment and built the business over the following two decades into one of Australia’s leading tilt slide manufacturers. In that time, CTE has delivered more than 1,000 tilt slides and trailers to customers across towing and transport, equipment hire, agriculture, mining and infrastructure, while continuing to control its process end-to-end from inhouse engineering through to production and supporting customers throughout the life of their equipment.

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Now, CTE is entering a new era following its official change of ownership. Last December, Darren decided to hand the business over to Stijn De Vriendt, an experienced operator with more than two decades of experience leading and transforming organisations. That change is now in full effect. “After four decades designing and manufacturing specialised transport equipment, and more than 20 years building CTE into the business it is today, I felt the time had come to take a step back from the day-to-day running of the company,” Darren explains. “It wasn’t an easy decision. CTE has been a huge part of my life, and I still have an enormous passion for the business, the brand and the industry we operate in. But sometimes you need to recognise when the time is right to hand over the reins.” During the last few years of his

leadership at CTE, Darren says he felt the business was ready for its next stage of growth. “The brand was strong and the foundations were solid, so the opportunities were there,” he says. “My wife, Kerry, and I felt that if we were going to make this change, we needed to do it while CTE was performing strongly and in a position to take advantage of the opportunities ahead.” That’s where Stijn came into the equation. He acquired CTE with a clear ambition to build on its strong foundations and shape it into the leading specialist in its field. Backed by a group of local investors, he is now responsible for supporting CTE’s next phase of growth. “What stood out to me about CTE wasn’t just the numbers – it was 20 years of trust Darren had built with customers, suppliers and his own team,” Stijn says. “Partnering


with him through this transition meant I got to learn firsthand what makes this business work, rather than guessing at it from the outside.” After spending 20 years driving transformation and growth as a consultant and operator, Stijn is now focusing on running and growing the business as Managing Director. “My job now is to build on that foundation, not around it,” he says. “I spent over a year looking for a profitable company to acquire that had a differentiated in-demand product, a strong team in place and clear growth opportunities to take it further. CTE ticked all those boxes.” The sale marks a deliberate handover. Darren specifically chose an owner who could bring fresh commercial and operational capability to CTE while protecting what built its reputation in the first place – its people, product and customer relationships. “I was genuinely excited to pass the baton to Stijn and his team who are hungry, ambitious and backed by a strong investment group which shares the vision for CTE’s future,” Darren says. “Thank you to our employees, customers, suppliers, industry partners and everyone who has supported the CTE family. A business is

only as strong as the people around it, and we have been incredibly fortunate to have had so many great people support us along the way. “CTE has been a huge chapter of our lives, and I’m incredibly proud of what we have built. Now it’s time for the next chapter.” Since the transition, Stijn has spent the first 10 months learning the business, strengthening the team and building key relationships across CTE’s customer and supplier base. Now, he is focused on growing the company further. “CTE has grown organically to the current size by building reliable equipment and delivering excellent customer service,” he says. “It’s been amazing to spend time with customers who love our product and continue to support us. My main focus has been to protect that during this transition, and I thank Darren for the diligence in the handover. “The opportunity for me is now all about building out the sales and marketing function, deepening our engineering capabilities and scaling our production. We are working hard to increase the awareness of what we do by getting in front of the right customers at the right time and expanding our presence outside of Victoria.”

Building on its current market position, CTE has bold ambitions and aims to be the go-to partner for towing and transport companies looking to maintain a reliable fleet of tilt slides and semi-trailers. Stijn says the goal is to be one true partner for customers by helping them manage their fleet across equipment renewals, expansion and maintenance. “We have a few exciting projects to expand our product range and service offerings which we’ll be announcing towards the end of the year,” he says. “In the meantime, we’ve been creating a more scalable business operation with modern technology and processes to efficiently support the whole quote to delivery process. “We’re building on a foundational team with some key hires across sales, engineering and production to be ready for the opportunities ahead – all while continuing to listen to customer feedback and evolve our product proposition to retain our position as one of the most premium and reliable manufacturers in the industry.”

Contact

CTE-Custom Transport Equipment Ph: 03 5625 5408 Web: www.ctequip.com.au

Image: CTE.

CTE Tiltslide Truckbodies.

www.trailermag.com.au

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Moving floor

Image: KEITH Manufacturing Company.

Moving on up

KEITH Manufacturing Company’s latest innovation, the RX drive technology, is now available in Australia. Image: KEITH Manufacturing Company.

KEITH Manufacturing Company’s brand-new RX drive technology, part of the Walking Floor family, has officially arrived in Australia. KEITH Manufacturing Company’s latest generation of the Walking Floor drive technology, RX, is now entering full production in Australia – bringing faster unloading, simplified operation and increased productivity to agricultural and wood-product applications in the local industry. For operators moving bulk materials, unloading is only one part of the job. Payload, turnaround time, cleanout, maintenance and the ability to use the same trailer across different applications all contribute to how productive that equipment can be over the course of a working day. Those considerations helped shape the new RX Technology. Within the new range, the RX2 is the two-cylinder drive developed specifically for applications where unloading speed and efficiency are priorities. Agriculture and wood products are among its key markets, particularly where operators need to combine fast bulk unloading with the versatility of a Walking Floor system. KEITH Australia Customer Support Manager, Tim Mellor, says the objective was straightforward – to make the system faster and easier to operate and maintain, without sacrificing the flexibility that allows a Walking Floor trailer to handle a broad range of materials. “For many bulk haulers, productivity comes down to what happens between arriving at the unloading point and getting the trailer back on the road,” he says.

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“Australian operators also need their equipment to handle different materials and applications, particularly in agriculture and wood products. “RX2 gives them the faster unloading they are looking for while retaining the versatility of a Walking Floor system. That combination has the potential to make a real difference to day-to-day productivity.” The RX2 has been designed to increase floor speed, helping reduce the time required to discharge a load. For operators completing multiple trips, reducing unloading time can contribute to better utilisation of both the trailer and driver. But speed was only part of the development brief – the system combines a faster unloading cycle with the horizontal unloading action and load versatility of the Walking Floor system. The trailer also remains level during discharge, removing the need to raise the trailer body and allowing unloading in locations where overhead clearance or ground conditions may limit tipping operations. While unloading speed will likely be the first difference operators notice, much of the RX development work has taken place in components that drivers may rarely see. KEITH redesigned the drive around a broader goal of simplifying operation and service while protecting the hydraulic system in demanding working conditions. An automatic switching valve removes the need for manual valve adjustment

during normal operation, cartridge-style components have been incorporated to simplify servicing and an integrated pressure filter provides additional hydraulic system protection. The RX platform also includes overtemperature protection and simplified push-button controls. “RX Technology represents a significant change to the KEITH drive platform, and its development has extended beyond engineering and controlled durability testing,” Tim says. “Systems have also been placed into working operations, allowing KEITH to evaluate performance with actual loads, drivers and day-to-day operating conditions.” While the RX2 is new to Australia, the operating challenges it was developed to address are not. For operators looking to move bulk material efficiently, the goal remains much the same – carry the right load, unload it quickly, minimise unnecessary handling and get the trailer back to work. RX2 represents KEITH’s latest approach to doing exactly that. It combines faster unloading with the versatility, horizontal discharge and proven operating principle of the already renowned Walking Floor system.

Contact

KEITH Walking Floor Australia Ph: 0404 041 833 Web: www.keithwalkingfloor.com


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Tyres & wheels A Johnstone Concrete and Quarries combination with Apollo Tyres EnduRace RT2 trailer tyres. Image: Johnstone Concrete and Quarries.

All-round benefits Johnstone Concrete and Quarries has increased productivity and reliability by retrofitting the Apollo Tyres EnduRace RT2 trailer tyre across its fleet. Johnstone Concrete and Quarries (JCQ) is a family-owned operation based in Moree, New South Wales, which specialises in delivering high performance and special mix concrete throughout northwest NSW and southern Queensland. Led by brothers, Mitch and Lachlan Johnstone, the local company has been supplying northwest New South Wales’ and southern Queensland’s civil and construction industries with gravel materials, road bases and aggregates quarry material for many years. “My grandfather first stated the business in the 1940s,” Mitch says. “So, my brother and I are the third generation.” Mitch’s father, Paul, began working with his father (Mitch’s grandfather) and his brothers at the family gravel operation back in the 1960s. JCQ’s first major turning point came when they established a gravel quarry operation in the Moree and Warialda regions in 1979, and it continued to grow with the purchase of a nearby ready-mix concrete business in 1987 and establishment of a concrete plant in Warialda and Mungindi in 1999. After restructuring its operations and officially introducing Mitch and Lachlan to the business as Directors in 2011, JCQ grew further. “We started doing float work – purely to move our own crushers and equipment around when we wanted to,” Mitch says. “That saw us spread out from Moree and grow bigger in Inglewood and the southern Queensland area. We’re now operating into Goondiwindi and looking to expand further.” JCQ’s offering has evolved considerably

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over the years. One of its core specialties is operating four quarries and supplying their products to local councils and companies throughout New South Wales and Queensland – a task that has seen it be involved with some major infrastructure projects, including the Newell Highway Corridor Strategy and Inland Rail. “We also do a lot of agricultural work out west with the concrete,” Mitch says. “We’ve worked on some solar farms as well the MacIntyre Wind Farm near Inglewood too, but our bread and butter is supplying material to main highways, council roads and agriculture.” The business has bolstered these operations by investing in the reliability and durability of its fleet of tipper trailers. For JCQ, that has predominantly been through the fitment of Apollo Tyres’ EnduRace RT2 trailer tyre. The Apollo EnduRace RT2 is a highquality trailer tyre engineered for Australian conditions. Designed to meet the demanding operations of the nation’s freight and logistics industry, it delivers exceptional mileage, durability and cost efficiency for fleet owners and operators. “We purchase a significant amount of these tyres,” Mitch says. “The reason behind that is the durability and low cost of the EnduRace RT2. It’s a tyre which ultimately allows us to be on the road more than off it.” A key indicator of tyre performance is how long each unit stays on the road, and Apollo Tyres’ EnduRace RT2 model was developed with those exact factors in mind. Built with a superior casing construction, the product offers enhanced resistance to

punctures and impact damage, delivering prolonged durability and excellent retreadability. This robust design supports multiple life cycles, making it a sustainable and economical choice for fleets focused on maximising asset value. The EnduRace RT2 features a uniform wear tread design which ensures consistent performance throughout its life, resulting in superior mileage and extended service intervals. Its pseudo six-rib tread pattern also maximises the rubber available for wear, noticeably enhancing tyre life while maintaining stable on-road performance. In addition, precisely positioned tie bars in the centre groove control tread deformation under load, contributing to lower rolling resistance and improved fuel efficiency – a critical advantage for longhaul and high-utilisation trailer operations. Complementing this, wider shoulder blocks deliver excellent scrub resistance and minimise slippage, making the tyre highly suitable for frequent turning, reversing and yard manoeuvres. Like many transport companies in today’s age facing rising operating costs and increasing pressure to maximise fleet uptime, JCQ was after a trailer tyre that would deliver longer life, consistent wear and dependable durability. For Mitch and his brother, the answer was found through EnduRace RT2. JCQ purchases the EnduRace RT2 trailer tyre as well as Cut & Chip steers (385/65R22.5) and Cut & Chip drives (295/80R22.5 and 11R22.5) through Tyrepower Moree. While the tyre provider has just undergone a change of ownership,


The Apollo EnduRace RT2 is a high-quality trailer tyre engineered for Australian conditions

Image: Johnstone Concrete and Quarries.

Mitch says JCQ still receives the same levels of service and performance as usual. “Tyrepower Moree supports us by distributing Apollo Tyres’ products and fitting them up for us,” Mitch says. “They’re generally looking after the entire situation for us, and they do a great job.” Overall, Mitch says JCQ has benefitted from increased productivity and efficiency by investing in Apollo Tyres’ EnduRace RT2 trailer tyre. “The product ensures we’re able to keep moving, and it also ends up costing less because we’re getting more rubber out of our tyres,” he says. “That has a huge impact on downtime. Productivity goes through the roof if you’re not having to stop and change tyres every few days. “So, our experience with the EnduRace RT2 trailer tyre has been really good. It keeps our equipment on the road and adds a bit more efficiency into the equation.”

Contact

Treadcare Ph: 03 9314 4911 Web: www.treadcare.com.au

Image: Treadcare.

The fleet has invested significantly in Apollo Tyres’ EnduRace RT2 trailer tyre.

www.trailermag.com.au

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Trailer building materials/components

One of Ooma Enterprisers’ GLT Trailers tippers fitted with Razor International’s automatic Rollover Tarp System.

Images: GLT Trailers.

Turning point Ooma Enterprises has seen significant improvements in safety and efficiency after standardising Razor International’s automatic Rollover Tarp System on its tippers. Established in 2004, Ooma Enterprises is a family-owned farm and food supply chain management business built on safety, compliance and reliability. With deep insights on markets, products and customers, as well as extensive experience from being both a farming and logistics operation, the company has built a reputation as a trusted leader in bulk grain transport and trading that can seamlessly connect farms to markets across eastern Australia. “My partner and I started the company as a farming and cropping business just over 20 years ago,” says Ooma Enterprises Managing Director, Malcolm

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Berry. “I’m also a commodity trader of grain and protein meals, so there were a lot of synergies between the job I was doing and our farming at the time – to the point that we started considering getting some trucks. We did, and we’ve built the transport side of the business up to seven tipper combinations now.” These GLT Trailers builds predominantly transport Ooma Enterprises’ own production from its farming locations as well as a lot of the products it sells into the poultry industry. For Malcolm and his partner, a critical priority has been fitting Razor International’s automatic Rollover Tarp System on all of them.

“It just made sense for what we do,” he says. “We had a driver with a shoulder injury who was struggling with the tarps, and it certainly made life easier for him. “It was also to address a safety issue. We had drivers climbing up on the back of tippers and B-doubles for the tarp which was getting dangerous, so it became pretty obvious that we needed the automatic tarp system.” The outcome of standardising Razor’s Rollover Tarp System has been significantly increased safety first and foremost, as well as improved efficiency and less downtime due to operators not having to manually handle tarps.


The innovation was custom designed to take the hard work out of manually rolling tarps over and drastically reducing the risk of injury.

“It’s made the workplace a lot easier for the drivers, and our safety and downtime have definitely improved,” Malcolm says. “Drivers are often loading in hot conditions, but with the tarps, they just have to press a button on either the remote or the app on their phone and it’s done.” Razor’s automatic Rollover Tarp System is known to be one of the safest and most reliable ways to cover freight while keeping drivers safe – the innovation was custom designed to take the hard work out of manually rolling tarps over and drastically reducing the risk of injury. The system is extremely easy to use and highly efficient. Once installed, drivers have the option to stay in the cab during operation and still have the same amount of control over the trailer. It also comes complete with manual override capability. Each system features a sophisticated control box featuring a touch pad which can be adjusted to control the sensitivity of how the tarp opens and closes. The power kit is trickle charged from the main unit and tops the battery up as the trailer

drives along. Without the truck, the tarps can still be operated 20-30 times before the battery needs to be charged. Razor’s Rollover Tarp System was purpose-designed to be not only robust but lightweight and compact to provide quick and easy fitting, with a high-quality, stylish finish to enhance its hosting trailer’s professional appearance. That is a trend seen across Razor’s wider trailer automation offering. Razor’s product suite is designed to eliminate risk for operators undertaking manual tasks. Throughout the near 30 years of its existence, Razor has eliminated risk of injury from winding landing legs on small, medium and heavy trailers and it has solved winding retractable and rollover tarps on many different trailer bodies. Razor has also offered engineered solutions for different jobs, such as lowering and raising ramps, opening and closing sliding gates, lifting mezzanine floors and sliding curtains, and multidevice activations, such as levelling and road trains. Each solution is electronically controlled by its in-house designs and

software, with the ability to be operated automatically by the press of the button from the motor, remote or Razor Connect app. For Ooma Enterprises, Malcolm says the thought of operating without a solution like Razor’s automatic tarp system is now baffling. “I’m not aware of the numbers, but I’d be surprised if people don’t have automatic tarp systems on their tippers,” he says. “It’s a major operating benefit as well as a cost saving. “If there’s something you can do to improve the health and safety of a workplace, you need to do it. That’s one of the reasons why I think Razor’s Rollover Tarp System has worked so well for us, and it’s something drivers are now looking for when joining a company. I think it attracts them because it makes their workplace a better place to be.”

Contact

Salvatore Calcagno, Razor International Ph: 03 9357 7181 Web: www.razorinternational.com

www.trailermag.com.au

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Trailer building materials/components

Maximum advantage MAX Industries continues to utilise BPW axles and suspensions for customers like Monaro Fuel Haulage which require greater durability and longevity in demanding off-road applications. Eleven years ago, MAX Industries debuted its specialised tanker design in the Australian market – a durable and high-quality trailer catered directly to the transport industry’s needs, with a unique barrel construction method designed to reduce the risk of intercompartment leaks. Today, these units continue to be developed in collaboration with GRW, a leading South African manufacturer of specialised tankers and trailers with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. Utilising GRW’s state-of-theart manufacturing techniques such as automated welding, laser cutting and CNC programmable robotics for precision and durability, both teams work in partnership

to construct each tanker to meet stringent Australian Design Rules (ADRs), as well as local regulations, specifications and operational demands – ensuring compliance and optimal performance. “Australia is such a unique environment for industrial transport, so you need to be very creative with your designs,” says GRW Sales Manager Australia, Nathan Reeder. “On one hand, operators are working in metropolitan areas where they’re limited with space and the width of the roads. But as soon as they leave these cities and move further into the outback, they’re covering very large distances between towns. That’s why end users fit their tankers with parts they know will perform.”

According to Nathan, this why many of MAX Industries’ customers request BPW Transpec axles and suspension systems, specifically for demanding applications. “BPW Transpec is a brand that has always been very visible in the market,” he says. “It’s known to be a high-quality product, and that’s why clients choose it. “Customers operating in harsh conditions and off-road environments put their trust in BPW Transpec’s axles and heavy-duty airbag suspensions because it’s tough and robust. From a design perspective, the airbags are also better located in terms of being protected from stones and road debris as standard.” BPW Transpec’s heavy-duty airbag

MAX Industries has been supplying Monaro Fuel Haulage and Emerald Carrying Co with tanker trailers for 10 years.

Images: GRW/MAX Industries.

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suspension series offers a comprehensive range of air suspensions designed to perform under various operating conditions. The well-proven range is characterised by double-leaf 100mm wide trailing arm springs, heavy duty fabricated hangers, cable catch straps and large BPW Type 36 airbags. MAX Industries’ latest example of this specification is an A-double manufactured for Monaro Fuel Haulage. The trailer builder began supplying tanker trailers to Emerald Carrying Company 10 years ago which followed onto Monaro Fuel Haulage. Since then, it has significantly contributed to both substantial and growing fleets with a range of A-doubles, B-doubles and road trains. A significant amount of those were specified with BPW Transpec axles and suspensions. “We place a lot of trust in the BPW product,” Nathan says. “A MAX Industries/ GRW tanker comes with a five-year warranty, because we believe our product is durable and reliable. “I believe BPW Transpec shares the same ethos. So, a quality product that is at BPW’s

level is a great addition to our builds.” A significant percentage of MAX Industries’ and GRW’s tankers are fitted with BPW axles and suspensions. GRW also has a long-established manufacturing relationship with BPW in South Africa, where its tanker and trailer range incorporates BPW components across various applications. Nathan says that benefits GRW and MAX Industries simultaneously. “The advantage of having BPW Transpec on board is seen in their understanding around the manufacturing of industrial tankers and trailers,” he says. “They know the pressures that can sometimes happen, and the fact that they always help on quite short notice is a massive benefit to any OEM. “From a supply chain perspective, we’re also able to ensure our axle and suspension componentry are supplied in time. That’s a very good support structure to receive from a supplier when you’re manufacturing at large scale.” GRW’s first ever tanker with BPW axles and suspensions was produced in 1997.

The aforementioned MAX Industries tanker which debuted in Australia 10 years ago was also fitted with them. The fact that both GRW and MAX Industries still utilise these components to this day proves the relationship between all three continues to flourish. “I was quite fortunate when I moved to Australia”, Nathan says, “because Max Guerini, the Managing Director of BPW Transpec in Australia, was also the Managing Director of BPW in South Africa. So, it was nice to have someone that knew us and could speak our language in terms of what we needed and how we would get things done. “Overall, it’s an extremely professional environment with BPW Transpec. They are very quick to respond with correct and accurate information, and they’re always willing to help out. Even if it’s for out-ofthe-ordinary requests.”

Contact

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

One of Monaro Fuel Haulage’s recent A-doubles fitted with BPW axles and heavy-duty airbag suspensions.

www.trailermag.com.au

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Trailer building materials/components

Driving awareness Borcat Trailers is pairing its payload-focused trailer designs with JOST axles and suspensions, leveraging a long-standing relationship to help fleets maximise uptime, profitability and return on investment. Images: NJ Ashton Group.

Borcat partnered with NJ Ashton Group and industry suppliers to support a mobile awareness campaign for motor neurone disease across Sydney and beyond.

For Borcat Trailers Director, Paul Gallagher, the decision to specify JOST running gear was less about taking a chance on a new product and more about backing a brand that has earned the company’s trust over many years. The partnership comes as Borcat continues to supply trailers to customers operating in some of the country’s most demanding freight environments, from highway haulage and quarry work to construction sites and agricultural applications. JOST’s reputation for quality made the decision straightforward. “The two companies have a very long history and the JOST name in transport stands for quality,” he says. “It was an easy choice knowing JOST would only bring a quality product to market that we could confidently supply to our customers.” The relationship extends beyond axles

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and suspensions. Paul has been using JOST products for almost two decades, dating back to his acquisition of the business from founder Angelo Borg. “We use many JOST products,” he says. “I’ve used JOST products for the last 18 years since purchasing the business from the original owners.” That familiarity helped provide confidence as Borcat Trailers became one of the early adopters of JOST’s latest axle and suspension package. Recent deliveries include multiple trailers for long-time customer NJ Ashton Group, whose fleet operates throughout Sydney, along the eastern seaboard and into South Australia. The trailers transport quarry and civil construction materials to a wide variety of locations, exposing equipment to conditions far beyond highway operation. “These units won’t just be doing highway work,” Paul says. “They’ll be travelling

in and out of haul roads, construction sites and farms, so they need reliable components capable of handling a broad range of operating environments.” Reliability, however, is only one piece of the puzzle. Freight operators are under constant pressure to improve profitability, making payload capacity and operational efficiency major factors in trailer design. “In today’s transport environment it’s all about trying to make a business profitable,” Paul says. “Borcat builds trailers to maximise payload for a better customer return on investment. If we can build units that offer strong payload capacity, our customers have a greater opportunity to generate a return on their investment.” Achieving that balance, he says, requires careful component selection. Paul adds that JOST’s axle and suspension


Borcat’s latest JOST-equipped trailers are operating in quarrying, civil construction, agricultural and highway transport applications across NSW and interstate.

package supports that objective by combining strength, reduced weight and durability. Equally important is the support network standing behind the product. For operators covering large geographic areas, downtime can quickly become expensive. Access to replacement parts and technical support can make the difference between a minor interruption and costly downtime. Paul views JOST’s established support network as a significant advantage for customers operating across NSW and interstate. “With the JOST network, customers can source parts in virtually any part of NSW and get back on the road if something does happen,” he says. “That’s what makes JOST’s latest axle and suspension offering such a strong choice.” The importance of parts availability

becomes even more apparent when equipment is operating hundreds of kilometres from the home depot. “These trailers could be working in Sydney, Northern NSW or even South Australia,” Paul says. “Accessing parts is a huge thing in transport because when tyres aren’t turning, they aren’t making money.” From a manufacturing perspective, Paul says JOST’s support during the specification and engineering process was advantageous. As one of the first local manufacturers to utilise the product, Borcat Trailers required comprehensive technical information, engineering drawings and documentation to support both design work and Performance-Based Standards (PBS) approvals. JOST, Paul says, delivered everything required.

“Making sure we had the drawings and information needed for our engineers, as well as the documentation required for PBS, was very important,” he says. “JOST supplied everything we needed. That’s what good companies do and it’s one of the reasons we stand behind JOST products.” Paul also sees a strong alignment between the two companies’ business philosophies. Borcat Trailers remains a family-owned manufacturer and places significant importance on customer service, product quality and long-term relationships. Meanwhile, JOST operates with a similar mindset. “Service and support are critical,” he says. “Borcat is a family-owned business and we work hard to provide the best service possible to our customers while supplying quality products. I feel JOST has the same focus on customer satisfaction. We’re very alike in that way. Some companies have lost that focus, so choosing suppliers with the same mindset is very important to me.” Payload and quality, Paul says, will remain the defining requirements of the NSW trailer market. Fleet operators are increasingly seeking equipment capable of delivering stronger returns while maintaining durability and reliability over the long term. “It’s all about payload and quality,” he says. “Borcat has been building trailers that offer a strong return on investment for many years, developed through real-world testing and experience. Our customers keep coming back because Borcat stands for quality, and so does the JOST name and the products it brings to market.” In addition to trailer manufacturing, Borcat has also been involved in a transport industry-led campaign to raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease (MND). Working alongside NJ Ashton Group and other industry partners, Borcat helped deliver a specially liveried trailer that serves as a mobile billboard for Motor Neurone Disease awareness across Sydney and beyond. “The idea came from Norman Yaminne and we were proud to support it,” Paul says. “If we can play a small part in bringing awareness to such a devastating disease and help with much-needed fundraising and awareness, then we’re happy to do that.”

Contact

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

www.trailermag.com.au

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Trailer building materials/components Image: Integrated Vehicle Solutions.

Pressure point TireCheck is Integrated Vehicle Solutions’ latest innovation designed to help operators identify potential problems before they become costly failures. Integrated Vehicle Solutions is positioning its TireCheck Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) as a practical tool for Australian operators, ahead of potential regulatory changes that could make TPMS increasingly important across the heavy vehicle sector. Integrated Vehicle Solutions Business Development Manager, Robert Bellocchi, says the company first encountered TireCheck at the IAA Transportation show in Hannover. He says it was the product quality and its use in overseas markets which highlighted its potential for Australia. “We see that the product has been mandated in other countries,” he says. “TireCheck is something the Australian market needs to consider because it will eventually become mandatory for new vehicles, even existing vehicles, trailers and prime movers.” TireCheck is a TPMS designed to provide real-time information on tyre pressure and temperature, helping operators identify potential problems before they become costly failures. Robert says the benefits extend beyond safety, with correctly maintained tyre pressures also contributing to tyre life, fuel efficiency and lower operating costs. “TireCheck improves safety,” he says. “It actually extends tyre life, and there’s obviously a cost saving as well. It’s designed for both truck and trailers with any tyre configuration, and it also provides peace of mind.” A key feature of TireCheck is its ease of maintenance. The system can be managed through the INTIRE Workshop app, available on Android or iOS, which gives operators accurate and real-time information. Robert says this provides an advantage over some systems that can require additional equipment or specialist software to make changes. “You can manage tyre rotation and sensor replacement all by using the app,” he says. “That’s really useful.” TireCheck uses a communication device known as the CAN bridge, which Robert

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describes as the “brains” of the system. It can be configured with either internal or external sensors, although Integrated Vehicle Solutions recommends the internal option. The internal sensors are mounted inside the tyre and provide greater protection while also improving temperature and accuracy. Robert says the sensors have a battery life of around five to eight years, which is significant given the tyre replacement cycles of many heavy vehicle operators. “When you consider that a lot of truck drivers are doing 70,000 to 100,000 kilometres a year, they’re most likely replacing tyres annualy,” he explains. “However, replacing the sensors isn’t a problem because they’ve probably changed tyres five or six times before they need to be replaced.” For fleet operators, Robert says the ability to monitor tyre pressure and temperature in real time is one of TireCheck’s most important features. “As tyre pressures gradually drop, that’s when trucks and trailers are most likely to experience blowouts,” he says. “If the issue isn’t identified early, replacing a tyre can be extremely costly, not to mention the inconvenience of an unplanned maintenance event.” TireCheck is designed to alert operators about abnormal pressure or temperature readings, allowing them to intervene before a tyre failure leads to a roadside breakdown. Robert says operators can also use the system alongside tyre inspections, with the option of monitoring tread depth via the ‘Flexigauge’ tool. The technology has been available in Australia for around 18 months, having already established a presence in the European and American markets. Japan is also among the markets being targeted for further expansion. Robert believes TireCheck’s compliance credentials could become increasingly important as Australia develops its own regulatory framework around vehicle

Integrated Vehicle Solutions’ TireCheck Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

cybersecurity and software. He points to the system’s existing alignment with European requirements, including UN regulations covering cybersecurity and software updates, as a potential advantage as Australian regulations evolve. “If you’re trying to implement a cheaper imported system that has no compliance to it, you don’t know what the ramifications could be,” he says. While Robert expects the Australian market to grow as regulatory requirements develop, he says operators will ultimately need to assess the technology in terms of practical deployment and support. “Fleet operators and transport operators will eventually have no option but to have some kind of TPMS system fitted to their vehicles,” he says. “I think there’ll be a big uptake once those regulations come into force.” Integrated Vehicle Solutions has been operating in the Australian market since 2007, initially developing its LoadSMART truck onboard weighing system before expanding into other technologies, including tyre monitoring, truck camera systems and vehicle lighting. The company’s long involvement with Australian heavy vehicle operators is one of its key strengths. “We understand what operators need, and we’re always looking at solutions,” Robert says. “Not all customers require the same systems, so there’s always a tweak or two that you need to make in order to satisfy their requirements.” With experience working across trucks, trailers, workshops and large fleet operations, Integrated Vehicle Solutions is focused on making emerging technology practical for the Australian transport industry. “You need to understand how to practically deploy these technologies across different fleet operators,” Robert says.

Contact

Integrated Vehicle Solutions Ph: 1300 120 103 Web: www.integratedvs.com.au


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SEMMA

Putting businesses first The South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance has raised its concerns over the Victorian Government’s procurement measures. Image: SEMMA. SEMMA CEO, Honi Walker, addressing members at the recent Australian Manufacturing BLUEPRINT forum in Melbourne.

With the Victorian Government being the largest procurer of goods, services and construction works in the state, the government department is using its purchasing power to help develop local industries, create jobs and boost economic activity through its Local Jobs First policy. Local Jobs First supports Victorian businesses and workers by ensuring that small- and medium-sized enterprises are given a full and fair opportunity to compete for both large and small government contracts, helping to create job opportunities, including for apprentices, trainees and cadets. However, South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance (SEMMA) CEO, Honi Walker, believes the policy’s Local Content has become a “box-ticking exercise” when it comes to navigating government procurement practices. “Our governments’ Local Jobs First content percentages are open to interpretation across transport and

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construction,” she says. “It should be about what percentage is manufactured here – not about operations, wages, gender and cultural factors, environmental and sustainability processes, and most of all, assembly of imported components.” Local Content relates to goods that are produced by local industry, services that are supplied by local industry or construction activities carried out by local industry. According to the Victorian Government, Local Content is intended to capture all suppliers producing Australian or New Zealand goods or services or when they have added value to imported items. Honi is raising her concerns with the current system because she believes small- to medium-sized enterprises are being affected. “An expression I’m hearing is that manufacturing is ‘lumpy’ at the moment,” she says. “How can manufacturing continue to bear the brunt of polices which do nothing for business confidence

and enable big business and those with unions on site to prosper?” Honi is also highlighting Australia’s sovereign capability as a risk to local manufacturing. “If we don’t manufacture the basics in this country, we are at risk of being held to ransom by other countries,” she says. “While it is protectionism via globalisation, we need to be strong and smart about it. “The most stable and wealthiest countries in the world all have manufacturing at the centre of their economy. That’s our challenge – make it in Australia, keep our local manufacturers here, keep our local jobs here and keep our future strong through manufacturing.”

Contact

South East Melbourne Manufacturers Alliance Ph: 0422 488 678 E: honi@semma.com.au Web: www.semma.com.au


Infrastructure spotlight

Road upgrades & new developments What you need to know about Australia’s biggest road projects this month NSW announces almost $3B in road projects

Nearly $3 billion in road upgrades are powering ahead across Western Sydney, with contracts now signed on five major projects which will deliver the capacity needed for one of Australia’s fastest growing regions. Jointly funded by the Australian and New South Wales Governments, the projects will unlock capacity on the road network, upgrade key intersections, improve local connections and support access to Western Sydney International Airport. Contracts have been awarded and construction is expected to start later this year to deliver: • $1 billion – Mamre Road Stage Two: Gamuda BMD JV will upgrade 6.1 kilometres of Mamre Road, converting the existing single lane road into two lanes between Erskine Park Road and Kerrs Road, Kemps Creek, including upgrades to key intersections and active transport links to support this growing employment area. • $1 billion – Elizabeth Drive: Gamuda BMD JV will widen the road to two lanes in each direction between Devonshire Road and Badgerys Creek Road, improving access to Western Sydney International Airport and local connectivity. • $440 million – Garfield Road East: Fulton Hogan will widen the road to two lanes in each direction between Piccadilly Street, Riverstone, and Windsor Road, Box Hill. • $247 million – Henry Lawson Drive Stage 1B: BMD Constructions will deliver around 1.8 kilometres of dual carriageway between Auld Avenue, Milperra, and the M5 Motorway. The upgrade will provide two lanes in each direction, while protecting adjoining bushland. • $190 million – The Horsley Drive: Ward Civil and Environmental Engineering Pty Ltd will widen 650 metres of road to two lanes in each direction between the M7 Motorway and Wallgrove Road at

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Horsley Park, improving one of Western Sydney’s important road connections. “This massive joint investment with the NSW Government will prepare Western Sydney for the future by unlocking capacity across our road network, as well as provide reliable access to the new Western Sydney International Airport,” said Acting Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain. “With contracts locked in for these five major road projects, the Australian Government is delivering on its promise to build a better traffic and transport future for Western Sydney, which will slash travel times, boost safety and keep this growing region moving forward.”

First project in $500M Central Queensland Beef Roads Program completed

The first early works project under the $500 million Central Queensland Beef Roads Program has been delivered. With construction now complete on Clermont-Alpha Road north of Alpha, a three-kilometre section of the key freight corridor is now sealed – meaning safer journeys for locals and a more reliable and accessible route for the beef industry. The Central Queensland Beef Roads Program will progressively upgrade and seal priority sections of nine strategically important freight corridors across Central and Western Queensland. Construction is now continuing on Clermont-Alpha Road south of Clermont, Fitzroy Developmental Road north of Bauhinia and Alpha-Tambo Road south of Alpha, while design work progresses on May Downs Road west of Clarke Creek. Together, these upgrades are helping to strengthen supply chains, supporting regional jobs and building the infrastructure needed to support Queensland’s world-class beef industry into the future. “The Albanese Labor Government is proud to partner with the Queensland

Government to deliver the $500 million Central Queensland Beef Roads Program, supporting safer and more reliable freight connections across some of the state’s most important beef-producing regions,” said Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm. “Through the early works package, we are delivering priority upgrades that will strengthen supply chains, improve access and support the long-term productivity of Queensland’s cattle industry.”

$25M project to boost Tasmania’s freight efficiency, safety

Construction is now underway on the first package of freight efficiency and safety upgrades for Tasmania’s Bridport Road, as part of a $25 million project funded by the Federal and State Governments. The upgrades include road widening and surface repairs, slope improvements and new turning lanes at selected intersections to improve road safety while supporting more efficient freight movements along a corridor between Weymouth Road and Industry Road. The first package of upgrades on Bridport Road will deliver improvements at priority locations, and new dedicated turning lanes for Industry Road, Pipers River Road, Back Creek Road, Weymouth Road and the Pipers River General Store. Tasmanian Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Kerry Vincent, said these upgrades will deliver a safer and more efficient corridor for freight operators. “We are building an even better road network for Tasmanians and visitors alike, and these Bridport Road upgrades will deliver a safer and more efficient journey,” he said. “Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. “We are continuing planning for future packages of the project, with design work continuing for upgrades between Jarvis Link and Little Forester River, and between the East Tamar Highway and Dalrymple Road intersection.”


World map

United front Earlier this year, 30 executives from Europe’s trailer manufacturing industry signed a joint declaration urging the European Commission and European Parliament to review Regulation 2024/1610. The declaration was signed at a meeting in Koningshooikt, Belgium, attended by Members of the European Parliament Kris Van Dijck (Belgium) and Jens Gieseke (Germany). While reaffirming support for the EU’s decarbonisation goals, the manufacturers said the regulations require significant revision before they are fully implemented. The industry’s main concern is the extension of CO₂ standards to trailers using the VECTO simulation tool. Although trailers produce no direct CO₂ emissions, manufacturers are assessed against simulated emissions based on standardised reference loads and operating cycles. The signatories argue the methodology fails to reflect the wide range of trailer applications, differing payload requirements and the increasing use of zero-emission tractor units across European fleets. They warn the rules could encourage lighter trailer designs

that reduce payload capacity simply to meet regulatory targets. This, they argue, could require more truck movements to transport the same freight, potentially increasing overall emissions rather than reducing them. Manufacturers also raised concerns about the financial impact of the regulations. From 2030, companies exceeding their targets could face penalties of €4,250 (approx. $6,874.26 AUD) per gCO₂/tkm above the prescribed limit for every registered vehicle. The sector says fines could reach millions of euros annually while placing around 70,000 jobs across Europe’s trailer manufacturing industry at risk. The coalition has proposed five changes: bringing the scheduled regulatory review forward from 2027 to 2026; introducing more achievable fleet targets and phasing them in from July 2030; imposing a moratorium on penalties while the methodology is reviewed; updating the

VECTO model to better reflect real-world operations and zero-emission tractor units; and reconsidering the proposed creditand-debit system, which manufacturers say cannot work until enabling technologies are commercially available at scale. Speaking at the event, Kris Van Dijck said climate policy should support emissions reduction without compromising European manufacturing. Jens Gieseke called for an evidence-based review in 2026, arguing the current targets must be technically achievable. Coalition spokesman, Gero Schulze Isfort, said the unprecedented collaboration between 30 competing manufacturers demonstrated the seriousness of the industry’s concerns and urged policymakers to begin the review process this year to provide regulatory certainty while supporting emissions reductions and the long-term competitiveness of Europe’s trailer manufacturing sector. Image: GloNet Communications/Schmitz Cargobull.

A show of force from Europe’s prominent trailer builders.

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Fleet of the month

Need for speed Speedlink Logistics has partnered with Arrow Transport to launch its first A-triple combination. initial performance has shown some very promising signs. “The feedback we’ve received from the customer has been great,” he says. “It’s a solid solution that allows them to maximize product delivery into the site while mitigating any risk around not delivering on time in full.” The launch of the A-triple marks a major milestone for Speedlink Logistics and reflects its ongoing commitment to growth. Its partnership with Arrow Transport is a newly-formed agreement Image: Speedlink Logistics.

Fully integrated transport and logistics provider, Speedlink Logistics, has deploy its first A-triple combination in collaboration with Arrow Transport. The partnership will deliver greater capability and service across the northern region of Queensland, linking Speedlink Logistics’ network from Townsville to Mount Isa. The trailer is being used to execute heavy haulage tasks across regional and remote Australia, requiring seamless collaboration and serious operational capability. Speedlink Logistics Commercial Manager for Australia and New Zealand, Patrick Chesterfield, says the A-triple – provided by Arrow Transport – was the ideal solution for the customer. “This combination is being used for one of our end customers’ infrastructure projects in the Mount Isa region, adjacent to the mining sector,” he says. “They needed to move as much product into the site as possible within very tight delivery windows, so it’s proven to be an excellent solution for a remote location.” Arrow Transport is also supporting the A-triple with its Townsville, Queensland, division, where it is loaded and unloaded by the team. Patrick says the A-triple’s

which Patrick says has paid off. “We were looking for a national wharf cartage provider that could act as a true one-stop shop,” he says. “Speedlink Logistics needed a partner with a national footprint who could support us across the board – from wharf cartage itself to shortterm storage, unpacks, DAFF suite of services and value-add solutions for our customers’ cargo. “Arrow Transport has been a really great fit for us.” Speedlink Logistics’ A-triple.


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What’s on

Truck Shows & Field Days Pencil in some information on dates and venues of various truck shows, field days and road transport industry conferences both locally and internationally.

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November Queensland

March Victoria

Brisbane Convoy for Kids 7 November Redcliffe Showgrounds, QLD Visit: www.brisbaneconvoyforkids.com.au

APPEX 2027 16-19 March Melbourne, VIC Visit: www.appex.com.au

New South Wales

South Australia

Convoy for Kids Goulburn 14 November Goulburn, NSW Visit: www.convoyforkidsgoulburn.com.au

South East Field Days 19-20 March Lucindale, SA Visit: www.sefd.com.au

Illawarra Convoy 15 November Illawarra, NSW Visit: www.illawarraconvoy.com.au

April New South Wales

Brazil Fenatran 9-13 November São Paulo, Brazil Visit: www.fenatran.com.br

New South Wales

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Dane Ballinger Memorial Truck Show 14 November Bathurst, NSW Visit: www.bathursttruckshow.com.au

Queensland AusRAIL 23-25 November Brisbane, QLD Visit: www.ausrail.com

2027

Tocal Field Days 30 April - 2 May Tocal, NSW Visit: www.tocalfielddays.com

May Queensland Brisbane Truck Show 20-23 May Brisbane, QLD Visit: www.brisbanetruckshow.com.au

November France Solutrans 16-20 November Lyon, France Visit: www.solutrans.fr

February South Australia evokeAG 16-17 February Adelaide, SA Visit: www.evokeag.com

Got an upcoming event? Then let us know about it – email editor@trailermag.com.au


FE AT U R E D G U E S T S

LEIGH SMART Managing Director, Formula Chemicals (NSW)

SIMON O’HARA Chief Executive Officer, Road Freight New South Wales

PETER SHIELDS Host, CRT News Podcast

The CRT News Podcast brings Australia’s commercial road transport industry to the table. Featuring decision-makers and editorial insight from Trailer and Prime Mover, each episode explores the issues shaping trucking, transport and logistics today. From regulatory change and safety to fleet operations, workshop innovation, technology and emerging industry trends, the podcast delivers informed conversations with the people driving the sector forward.

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