JUNE 2019 Edition - WA Transport Magazine

THE TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY MAGAZINE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA

ISSN 2202-6193

100007516 June 2019 | price $6.95

TRANSPORT magazine

Page 2

TWU WA Branch Secretary Tim Dawson answers questions from WA Transport Magazine readers in relation to what the intention of the TWU is in regard to a ‘Safe and Sustainable’ transport industry

IN THIS ISSUE:

• Make payment terms a priority • Online freight matching service • Transporting Ammunition • 3.7 billion Iron Bridge Magnetite project approved WATM • June 2019

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Profile

WA Transport Magazine readers question

Tim Dawson – TWU WA

I appreciate the opportunity to answer a number of questions from your readers. I hope these answers can clear up any misinformation that has been written and spoken about in relation to what the intention of the TWU is in regard to a Safe and sustainable transport industry.

Q: How will a new RSRT system guarantee that higher rates will be applied to vehicle maintenance and other safety matters?

A: The focus of a system of Safe Rates is on safety. The implementation of this system will calculate cost recovery for maintenance, fixed costs, wages, insurance, fuel and any other overheads. The aim is to make sure that drivers and transport businesses no matter what their size are paid sufficient rates so they are not forced to cut corners on maintenance, fatigue, speeding, overloading etc. The vital part of this system will be holding wealthy retailers, mining, oil and gas, banks and manufacturing companies at the top to account for these rates. These wealthy companies must ensure they are paying sufficient rates so that their goods can be delivered safely.

The pressure on transport is real: a Macquarie University survey of truck drivers released in 2017 shows 10% work over 80 hours. It also shows one in six drivers who own their own trucks do not believe they can refuse an unsafe load and almost one in five owner drivers said they 2

WATM • June 2019

would not report being pressured to falsify a work diary.

A Safe Work survey in 2015 showed that 31% of transport employers say workers ignore safety rules to get the job done, 20% accept dangerous behaviour, compared to less than 2% in other industries and 20% of transport industry employers break safety rules to meet deadlines – this compares with just 6% of employers in other industries.

These surveys show there are chronic problems of pressure in our industry which can only be alleviated by targeting those piling it on: the companies at the top.

Q: I would like your feedback and thoughts on the following. As you are no doubt aware the best way for industry to make real change that benefits everyone, is to find common ground and work together.

An adversarial relationship between workers and employers benefits no one.

A case in point is industry working together to lift safety standards. For many years government has driven this from a regulatory and some would say dictatorial manner. This transpires into a dictatorial style of management as the constant threat of litigation is pushed back down the chain to the employee.

A: I agree that real change will only come when the transport industry stops fighting with itself. Those at the top of the supply chain and governments are only too happy for the transport industry to be pulling itself apart. Governments play the industry for

mugs and now is the time for change. We as a vital industry must unite and must speak as one voice.

As for regulation I agree that it must be the right type of regulation. Regulation aiming to make our roads safer must be preventive - we need rules that ensure drivers and transport operators can deliver goods safely so that horrific truck crashes do not occur in the first place. Regulation that tries to go back up the chain after horrific events has not worked to date and never targets the real culprits - the companies at the top. It is always drivers who cop the blame through fines or jail time. Current regulation is not making our roads safer since the top end of town dictates rates, unrealistic delivery times, and forces transport companies to cut corners. It is time the CEO’s the clients of transport companies were held accountable for the pressure that they put on them.

The transport industry is the most important industry in Australia and it is time that those who work in it appreciated that. Why is it that we think it is ok to subsidise big multinational mining and retail companies and the big banks at the expenses of transport workers safety?

Q: For many years, I along with many others have recognised a distinct shortage of skilled transport operators. This is a real safety issue for not only our workforce but also the general public which share our workplace every day. I would like your thoughts on an industry based apprenticeship which would create a

conduit from the education system into the transport industry. This would provide industry standardised skill sets. The industry needs a dedicated training facility supported by TAFE supported curriculum.

I invite the TWU to work with all industry stake holders to develop and lobby the government booth state and federal to provide funding to support this crucial initiative.

A: The TWU has for a long time said that truck driver training is not up to the correct standard to deliver enough professional drivers to the industry. We need a system that gives young people after school a pathway into the transport industry through a skilled base traineeship/apprenticeship.

Appropriate training should be skilled based with certificates that recognise these skills. It needs to make sure that at every level of licensing you only receive your licence/certificate when you are capable of carrying out important tasks i.e. (restraining the load, reverse the vehicle, de-coupling and coupling, basic maintenance, pass a fatigue course etc). Mental health and dietary should be part of the course as these are issues which are literally killing too many people in our industry.

The industry must be made more attractive to the next generation. Training is important but young people also need to know that entering the transport industry will mean a good, well-paid job with a career path. To provide these kinds of jobs to the next generation we need to get away from the race to the bottom which is going on at the moment where drivers pay is low and conditions are poor. No one wants to do a job knowing that bullying and pressure to take safety risks may be part of the job.

Q: How would split loads be handled under a new fixed rates system?

A: Consultation with the industry is important to make sure that not only rates are improved but that the system gives the best possible protection to everyone in the transport industry. We need the current squeeze by the big end of town dealt with in a tribunal that is dedicated to the transport industry.

There have been two forums in Canberra this year, one organised by the TWU and the other by Senator Glenn Sterle Shadow Road Safety Minister. TWU is consulting with its members and intend to consult with the industry. The body we would like to see put in place to deal with

the industry’s problems would be able to hear from all sides and make orders and rulings based on all views. This is vital as the transport industry is being shaken up by the gig economy - and faces an overhaul if regulation is not put in place to ensure that fairness and safety are the priorities in the industry. At the forum individuals from various organisations spoke with concern about developments such as Uber Freight.

This has recently been expanded to Europe and could enter the Australian market with devastating consequences for fairness and safety. The ALP party platform adopted in December on a system of Safe Rates which includes regulation of the gig economy.

Q: Why should transport businesses be treated as though they are employees under the Fairwork system when they are subject to business laws for most of their operations?

A: We are not saying that transport businesses should be treated like employees. But the system of laws and regulations currently in place are not working and has been broken for a long time. Owner drivers operate transport businesses but are dictated unfair terms and conditions which can change arbitrarily.

These hard-working drivers should be allowed to take a case to arbitrate these unfair conditions. This system works well in NSW where owner drivers there can go to the Industrial Relations Commission when a sub-contractor or company violates their rights. Why should the same not apply to drivers in WA? Q: How will a new system prevent market distortions as occurred last time under the RSRT? A: It is simply not possible that the tribunal created distortions - its rates order was only in place for two weeks before it was torn down.

The only other order it made was mandating 30 day payments to owner drivers which was something they had been crying out for. All transport operators being Owner drivers, small to medium and large companies can wait up to 120 days or more.

The truth is there was a lot of scaremongering and lies put out about the tribunal. The Federal Government put forward many assertions - some made on the floor of parliament - which were false. They did this because this body was for the first time ever holding wealthy

companies at the top to account over the low cost contracts they dictated. These wealthy companies help bankroll the political parties in the Federal Government - because of this they tore it down.

There needs to be a system that works for all those that operate in the transport industry. Through consultation and working collectively together we can have a safe and sustainable transport industry.

Q: Is not the TWU a mechanism for the fair treatment and fair pay of workers?

That is how I view Unions. Would it not be fair to say then that it is in the TWU’s best interests to look after the Multinational transport companies as it is their workers that will join your organisation? Where does this leave Owner Drivers and Small business owners in the transport sector who incidentally make up over 80 % of the freight task when it comes to any Governmental changes to the industry, i.e.; safe rates, RSRT reborn – whatever you want to call it. For every one of us that wants a safe rate there are people and organisations that say we are a small business and that we should be subject to market forces. Where exactly does the TWU fit small businesses / owner drivers into their equation and how can we believe you will demonstrate ‘fairness across the board’ to all segments of the transport sector especially after your last attempt.

A: The TWU has EAs agreements with the majority of national companies. These agreements have pay rates 30-35% above awards Super paid between 3-5% above what they legally have to pay. We also have clauses in a number of these agreements that protect owner drivers, fleet owners and their employees’ that they’re paid correctly.

TWU is the biggest representative of small businesses in Australia, representing thousands of owner drivers. The TWU has thousands of members that are not employed with the majors that are employed with fleet owners, small to medium size companies and owner drivers that we have been negotiating rates and conditions for over 100 years. We have no intention of putting in place a system that would either put these businesses out of business or their employees out of a job - they are our members. The transport industry would not survive without owner drivers or small operators.

It is only the TWU that is fighting for a fair system for employees and owner drivers. It is WATM • June 2019

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Multinational companies in mining, retail, oil and gas, banking that win when we are not all working together. As for market forces the only market force I see is owner drivers and small businesses having to take rates that these big boys tell you to. We have been fighting for over twenty years for a system that is not take it or leave it from the big end of town. In the last three years 1,072 transport businesses have gone bust (ASIC figures) - some of these are big like Redstar some are owner drivers and small fleets. But it shows just how difficult the industry is and how financially squeezed transport is.

Q: The TWU have been seen to say that safe rates will increase road safety. I was interested to read that fatal truck crashes have fallen dramatically in 2018 according to the latest Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics (BITRE) heavy vehicle fatal crash statistics.

Compared to 2017, there has been a 20.5% decrease in fatal crashes involving heavy trucks, a 15.2% decrease in fatal crashes involving articulated trucks and a 26.1% decrease in fatal crashes involving rigid trucks. Now I know what you are going to say – safe rates can only improve this and we should aim for zero fatalities. That is not realistic as there are other road users involved that industry has no control over.

However, what these figures do show is that ‘without’ safe rates industry itself is improving its safety record and for a good part most of industry is responsible and proactive. What are your thoughts on this?

A: The statistics fluctuate greatly: in 2012 there were 239 deaths involving heavy vehicles but in 2013 that fell to 176. The following year in 2014 it jumped to 202.

Between 2016 and 2017 there was another jump - mostly seen in NSW where there was an 88% jump in deaths involving articulated trucks. These stats had fallen back last year but are increasing again - in March this year 27 people died in truck crashes which is a shocking figure. https:// bitre.gov.au/publications/ongoing/fhvc/files/ Bulletin_Dec_2018.pdf But here is what has been acknowledged by the Bureau of Infrastructure: that heavy vehicles are ‘disproportionately’ involved in fatalities - they make up 16% of road crash fatalities but are just 3.6% of registered motor vehicles https://bitre.gov.au/ publications/2016/files/is_078.pdf The reason for this ‘disproportionate’ effect on road deaths is not hard to figure 4

WATM • June 2019

out if you talk to truck drivers: they will tell you about long hours, pressure to speed, pressure to skip rest breaks, being put into trucks that aren’t road worthy. Even if they work for a good company which is not forced to cut corners they will tell you of people they know who are and they will tell you horror stories of watching trucks veer off the road after a driver has fallen asleep, killing himself and sometimes others. Our roads can only be as safe as the people working on it. Truck drivers have the right to come home safely and so do other road users. We believe pressure must be lifted from drivers and transport operators in order to achieve this and that a system of Safe Rates is the way to achieve it.

Combined with these overall truck crash fatalities are the figures for the number of truck drivers killed. Trucking is Australia’s deadliest industry - with the highest numbers of workplace fatalities for any industry. This is a disgrace and needs an urgent solution rather parties which believe we have reached an acceptable level of deaths.

Q: I would imagine that any new system would be implemented by the Government but largely driven by the TWU (if Labor is successful at next election) so I would like to know if and how the TWU is going to offer a level playing field for all sectors of the transport industry – Owner Drivers (small businesses) to multinational transport players? The Multinational companies have a bigger buying power (fuel, equipment) and as an Owner Driver I can tell you that they do hold a gun to our head to drive up their own profits. One example I can give you is if you want their work then you must purchase your fuel from them. Yes, they get it cheaper than we do however we are out of pocket in the long run as we can’t claim back fuel tax credits.

A: There is not a level playing field now and the smaller you are the bigger the gun that is being held to your head. As stated through consultation we will make sure that all the different types of operators in the transport industry have their say. This is why we need a system with a tribunal.

This tribunal will have powers to make an order against clients and any company in the transport chain which are being unconscionable.

No matter who wins the next election the transport industry needs to be united only then can it take on greedy clients, governments and the regulators. We need to lift standards in transport. We need to lift rates and make our transport businesses

more sustainable to ensure good jobs in the future for the next generation of truck drivers. To do this we must alleviate pressure on the industry by ensuring wealthy retailers, manufacturers and oil companies at the top pay their fair share.

Q: I would like to know how any new system will ensure increased rates are spent on safety such as better maintenance and new tyres – it just won’t so in reality this is not about safety.

A: The overwhelming number of operators in the transport industry want to operate safely. Employers and employees want to go to work and come home safely at the end of the day. But the problem is that unsafe businesses are being allowed to operate because of the race to the bottom the financial pressure on the system means unsafe practices are allowed to exist. We need a system that not only brings these transport operators to book but the clients whose unsustainable rates allow it - forcing transport operators that are trying to do to the right thing out of business.

We also need to do something about phoenixing, such as when a company in the South West that continues to go broke owing its employees and companies money only rises again in the name of another family member. That puts so much pressure on their drivers to work excessive hours - one feel asleep at the wheel killing two people, leading to him going to jail. Why was no one in the supply chain held accountable. When the client either puts pressure on the company or allows companies in their supply chain to operate like this than they must be held accountable through a tribunal.

It is time that the transport industry has a well-resourced enforcement regime.

It is important to note that the Labor party policy is to strengthen and endorse the commitment to properly fund and resource an enforcement regime. This will make sure that it is not the driver that is the only one held accountable but that accountability goes all the away to the top of the supply chain to the clients.

Do you have questions for Tim Dawson from the TWU WA? To have them answered and published in WA Transport Magazine please email them to: karen@angrychicken.com.au

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VOLUME 25 | NUMBER 5 Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd Telephone 0430 153 273 www.angrychicken.com.au

FROM THE PUBLISHER

ABN: 35 486 530 095

PUBLISHER / COMMISSIONING EDITOR Karen-Maree’ Kaye T: 08 9296 4488 Email: karen@angrychicken.com.au WRITERS Russell McKinnon CONTRIBUTORS Jan Cooper, Cam Dumesny, Carol Messenger, John Milner, Ray Pratt, Peter Swift, Vince Ziino.

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A

t the time of going to press with this edition it is 10 days out from the Federal Election so I have no idea which party Australia will vote in.

However, I thought it would be a good opportunity to ask Tim Dawson Branch Secretary of TWU WA if he could answer mine and readers of the magazines questions in relation to the TWU’s intention in regard to a new RSRT system.

Regardless of who wins the election industry seem to all be in agreeance that ‘something needs to be done’ to improve rates, safety and ensure that it is a level playing field for all operators regardless of size; and that the transport industry is not

being squeezed any further.

Thank you Tim Dawson, I appreciate your time and I look forward to your future involvement in the magazine. Readers… if you have any questions for Tim that you would like published in the magazine, please email me at: karen@angrychicken. com.au Thank you to the readers who have reached out to me in the last month with story ideas and kind words and to all the new digital subscribers who are new to the magazine.

Best,

Karen

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Editorial Submissions: The Publisher welcomes editorial submissions. Once received they will become the property of the Publisher who reserves the right to edit the or adjust the content to fit with the format of our publication.

CONTENTS 2............................... WA Transport Magazine readers question Tim Dawson TWU WA 7................................New Fremantle Traffic Bridge funded in State Budget 8...............................Towing articulated vehicle combinations 10..............................$3.7 billion Iron Bridge Magnetite project approved 11...............................World first in fatigue research 13.............................. $1.7 billion transformation of Tonkin Highway and eastern corridor 14.............................. Western Roads Federation – Job losses but job shortages

West Australian Transport Magazine (WATM) is published by Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd ABN: 35 486 530 095 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, adapted or transmitted in any form by any process (graphic, electronic, mechanical or storage and retrieval system) or sold, resold or otherwise exploited for any purpose without consent of the Publisher.

The publisher, contributors, editors and consultants disclaim any and all liability and responsibility to any person or party, be they a purchaser, reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication in regards to consequences and outcomes of anything done or omitted, or being in reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of this publication. No person, organization or party should rely on or on any way act upon any part of the contents of this magazine without first obtaining the advice of a fully qualified person. The Publisher shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by contributor, consultant, editor or related party for content within WATM. The opinions and content within WATM does not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher, editor or their agents. No responsibility is accepted for damage or loss of material supplied to the publisher.

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WATM • June 2019

16..............................Online freight matching service 17.............................. ATO collects more than $500 million from illegal phoenix operators 18..............................Light vehicle drivers targeted by top trucking safety tips 19.............................. Significant expansion to WA’s roadside drug testing program 20............................New job-creating development set for Elizabeth Quay

Every Month 9...............................Questions to the Minister 12..............................Fair go for Owner Drivers 20............................Dangerous Goods 22............................HCVC 23............................WA Transport History 24 ...........................Model Trucks

Endorsed by

News

New Fremantle Traffic Bridge funded in State Budget

T

he Fremantle Traffic Bridge over the Swan River, originally built in 1938 as a temporary structure, is finally set to be rebuilt, creating 1,500 jobs.

The McGowan Government has included the $230 million project in the upcoming State Budget, having successfully pitched the project to the Commonwealth Government for a funding contribution.

Infrastructure Australia also recently listed the bridge replacement as a national priority in its annual Infrastructure Priority List following submissions from the State Government.

Deterioration of the bridge's pylons led to a disruptive temporary closure in 2016, prompting expensive strengthening works under the previous government which withdrew funding to replace the bridge in 2011.

Replacing the traffic bridge will put an end to expensive patch ups while offering new opportunities to integrate additional rail capacity at a key bottleneck caused by passenger and freight trains sharing the same rail bridge.

The amount of container freight moving to and from the Fremantle Inner Harbour by rail is reaching record levels (22.8 per cent in March 2019), easing pressure on arterial roads to the port.

But constraints caused by rail bridge capacity at the Swan River crossing in Fremantle will restrict future growth in the share of freight moving to Fremantle Port by rail.

The Public Transport Authority is currently working closely with Main Roads Western Australia on the business case for

The amount of container freight moving to and from the Fremantle Inner Harbour by rail is reaching record levels (22.8 per cent in March 2019), easing pressure on arterial roads to the port the Fremantle Traffic Bridge replacement, which has been broadened to consider rail options. This could unlock the next expansion of freight on rail by enabling a greater proportion of containers taken by train to the port.

The State Government has met with the City of Fremantle and will investigate the feasibility of retaining parts of the old bridge for community use, subject to design of the new structure and future engineering investigations.

It is anticipated construction of the bridge would start in 2021-22 and take approximately two years to complete.

WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, “This new bridge will put an end to the expensive patch ups on the old structure, which has served the area well for 80 years but is deteriorating and becoming a liability.

“Replacing the Fremantle Traffic Bridge is also an opportunity to examine the opportunities to expand rail access into Fremantle - both for passenger and freight trains.

“With increased rail capacity, the new bridge could unlock the next phase of the expansion of freight on rail and reducing truck movements on metropolitan roads.”

Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk said, “It has long been recognised that while the Fremantle Traffic Bridge has served us well

for many decades, it needs replacing.

“I am very pleased the State Labor Government has been able to secure equal Federal funding to make this important project happen which will improve access to Fremantle for freight, cars, pedestrians and cyclists.

“This is an important gateway to Fremantle. Rail is essential to managing freight from the Port and this opportunity to modernise our rail infrastructure across the river is very welcome.”

Effectiveness of HVS Incident Communication Main Roads WA HVS wants to better understand the effectiveness of the current notification process relating to road notifications in the event of an incident.

Please take a moment to give your feedback via the link to a short two minute survey. www.surveymonkey.com/r/ NSPZ8X8 Any questions can be directed to simon.wakeling@mainroads. wa.gov.au

WATM • June 2019

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Focus

Towing Articulated Vehicle Combinations

I

t is inevitable that from time to time, heavy vehicles will encounter faults that result in the vehicle combination becoming disabled on the roadside. So, what are the rules around towing a disabled articulated vehicle combination?

Firstly, if you are in the transport industry, you would be aware that a vehicle combination exceeding 19 metres in length or 42.5 tonnes gross mass is a Restricted Access Vehicle (RAV), which must only travel on the public road network in accordance with a RAV Permit or Order (Notice). Similarly, any vehicle towing more than one other vehicle, whether directly or indirectly attached, must operate in accordance with an approval from Main Roads Heavy Vehicle Services (HVS). This also applies to vehicles being towed by a tow truck.

However, there are provisions in legislation for HVS, or the WA Police, to give permission for a disabled articulated vehicle combination to be towed, if it constitutes a hazard to traffic and it is unsafe to uncouple the vehicle. This permission is limited to towing the disabled articulated vehicle combination to a place where it no longer constitutes a hazard.

In this instance, the driver of the tow truck must either be escorted by WA Police, or obtain written authorisation from HVS or WA Police. The written authorisation must include the vehicle details, the place to where the vehicle is to be moved and appropriate conditions to ensure safety.

It should be noted however, that in most cases, it is the prime mover that has become disabled and, whilst not convenient for some transport operators as it requires an additional prime mover and

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WATM • June 2019

driver, a much safer option is to replace the prime mover. This requires the disabled prime mover to be towed but often enables the transport task to continue without additional delays as a prime mover can travel to site in the same time as a heavy under-lift tow truck.

HVS applies this policy as there are a number of safety and road infrastructure concerns relating to towing a disabled articulated vehicle combination, including the following: 1) It is questionable whether the rating of the steer axle and other components to which under-lift towing mechanisms attach are adequate and able to sustain the forces required to pull the disabled articulated vehicle combination.

2) Rear axle and tyre ratings of the disabled prime mover may not be adequate to accommodate the transfer of mass resulting from lifting the front of a prime mover that is still connected to fully laden trailers.

3) The rear axles of the disabled prime mover are likely to become overloaded and contravene regulations or permit requirements.

4) Bridges need to be assessed for the additional mass and changes to mass distribution (i.e. with the front of the disabled prime mover raised).

5) The stability of the vehicle combination will be compromised.

6) The swept path will be adversely impacted by the additional vehicle length; and 7) The additional vehicle length may cause other issues, such as exceeding available stacking distances at railway crossings or intersections.

If transport operators make the business decision to build trailers without landing legs, and therefore cannot disconnect the prime mover, they then have an obligation to ensure they have appropriate systems in place to manage incidents resulting in an articulated vehicle combination becoming disabled on the roadside.

This is not however, a sufficient reason for HVS to allow a disabled articulated vehicle combination to be towed over a considerable distance.

Where dangerous goods are involved, the Dangerous Goods Regulations require the prime contractor to remove the dangerous goods from a disabled vehicle before it is towed, unless this constitutes a greater risk than leaving the dangerous goods on the vehicle. Replacing the disabled prime mover with an operational prime mover is not considered a greater risk than towing a disabled articulated vehicle combination loaded with dangerous goods.

In summary, each person in the ‘Chain of Responsibility’ needs to ensure an appropriate approval has been obtained to move a disabled articulated vehicle combination. Generally, such an approval will only be given to move the disabled articulated vehicle combination the minimum distance necessary to remove the vehicle from a hazardous situation.

It then remains the transport operator’s responsibility to make the necessary arrangements to repair the vehicle at that location or relocate the vehicle in a lawful manner to a place of repair.

For further information on towing articulated vehicle combinations, please contact Heavy Vehicle Services on 138 486.

Over to you QUESTIONS TO THE MINISTER with Hon. Rita Saffioti | B Bus MLA | Minister of Transport Our West Australian Minister for Transport has kindly agreed to answer your most pressing questions for publication in the WA Transport Magazine.

Our thanks go to the Minister for her time and we hope you will take advantage of this opportunity. Please send your questions to the publisher at karen@angrychicken.com.au

Minister: Why are HVS going to allow 42m triple road trains to run on certain Great Southern roads when the roads are already breaking up and passing on coming 36.5m road trains is already risky on tight roads?

Answer: The 42 metre triple road trains in question are assessed and approved via the WA Performance Based Standards (PBS) Scheme.

The WA PBS Scheme assesses a vehicle based on how well it behaves on the road, through a set of rigorous safety standards, rather than assessing the vehicle based on prescriptive dimension limits.

There are currently thirty 42 metre PBS triple road trains operating throughout WA, in the Perth Metropolitan, GoldfieldsEsperance, Great Southern, Wheatbelt, Mid-West Gascoyne, Pilbara and South West Regions. These road trains have been operating

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The 42 metre PBS triple road trains do not have any increased impact on the road pavement, as the axle group mass limits are the same as prescriptive 36.5 metre road trains. The 42 metre road trains are considered more pavement friendly, as they have improved axle spacings, and due to their ability to carry more payload, reduce the number of vehicle trips required for a given transport task.

While the 42 metre PBS triple road trains are slightly longer than prescriptive 36.5 metre road trains, they have superior safety performance, particularly in terms of braking performance, rollover stability and reduced rear trailer sway.

Consideration is being given to expanding the road access for the 42 metre PBS triple road trains where the roads are assessed as being suitable, particularly with regard to road width and overtaking opportunities.

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News

Project location Located 145km south of Port Hedland, Iron Bridge incorporates the world class North Star and Glacier Valley magnetite ore bodies

$3.7 billion Iron Bridge Magnetite Project approved

F

ortescue Metals Group Ltd subsidiary FMG Magnetite Pty Ltd and joint venture partner Formosa Steel IB Pty Ltd have approved the development of Stage Two of the Iron Bridge Magnetite Project, paving the way for thousands of new jobs in Western Australia.

The $3.7 billion project, located 145 kilometres south of Port Hedland, will create about 3,000 construction jobs and up to 900 jobs when operational. It will produce the equivalent of 20 million dry

FMG has committed to using local suppliers and contractors for products and services metric tonnes of magnetite ore per annum at full operational capacity.

FMG has committed to using local suppliers and contractors for products and services, and has put in place agreements with the Njamal and Kariyarra people to ensure it creates opportunities for local Aboriginal people.

Construction on the project will commence this year, with delivery of first ore expected in the first half of 2022.

WA Premier Mark McGowan said, “It’s another encouraging sign that confidence is returning to Western Australia’s economy, and with thousands of jobs expected to flow from the Iron Bridge 10

WATM • June 2019

project, this will deliver a huge boost to our State.

“This is great news for the Pilbara and great news for Western Australia. I look

forward to working with FMG to ensure Western Australians, particularly in the Pilbara, will reap the benefits of this project in the years to come.”

Make Payment Terms a Priority

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oo many contracts for road transport services contain unfair payment terms, according to the National Road Transport Association (NatRoad).

“NatRoad has seen an increasing tendency for payment period to extend to 90 days. But 30-day minimum payment terms are a must for the road transport industry, which is characterised by tight margins, and intense competition,” said Warren Clark, CEO of NatRoad.

“The road safety remuneration system that NatRoad fiercely opposed had one highly beneficial element: the mandating of 30-day minimum payment terms. Having this provision returned to the law would significantly improve the viability of small trucking businesses.”

“Our members have told us that lengthy payment terms are becoming more common. In particular, members should check their contracts so that provisions which permit the client to

withhold payment of disputed invoices are not part of the agreement to provide transport services.”

“We have analysed contracts for members where a trap is set for not meeting timing or document submission deadlines,” Mr Clark said.

“Penalties for not meeting KPIs under the guise of so-called liquidated damages should be resisted in contract terms, particularly where the time slot allocated for delivery is not reasonable.

The better members define and adhere to payment terms and reject penalties for not meeting KPIs the more likely members are to be paid promptly and to avoid disputes.”

“NatRoad considers that a contractual term requiring payment beyond 30 days has all of the hallmarks of an unfair contract term. We have asked the Government to make provisions in small businesses contracts that require payment beyond that period unfair under the legislation.”

News

World first in fatigue research T

he National Transport Commission (NTC) and the Cooperative Research Centre for Alertness, Safety and Productivity has released the results of a world-first study into heavy vehicle driver fatigue.

The two-year scientific study evaluated work shifts on driver alertness analysing shift start time, length, the number of consecutive shifts, shift rotation, rest breaks and their likely impact on driver drowsiness and fatigue.

The research involved a study of more than 300 heavy vehicle driver shifts both invehicle and in a laboratory, as well as 150,000 samples of retrospective data.

“We found that slow eye and eyelid movements, longer blink duration and prolonged eye closure are reliable predictors of drowsiness and fatigue,” Spokesperson and Theme Leader for the Alertness CRC Associate Professor Mark Howard said.

The study also confirmed the scientific

link between alertness and drowsiness patterns associated with specific work shifts for heavy vehicle driving.

NTC Chief Executive Officer Dr Gillian Miles said, “This is critical new evidence that will ultimately help to decrease heavy vehicle fatigue risk at a time when the nation’s freight task is expected to double by 2030”.

The summary report and an infographic of the key research findings are available at: www.ntc.gov.au/Media/Reports/(0FF2722E5F5C-285E-8208-503A37BCC154).pdf

Key research findings • Greatest alertness levels can be achieved under current standard driving hours for shifts starting between 6am – 8am, including all rest breaks.

• Greatest risk of an increase in drowsiness occurs: o After 15 hours of day driving when a driver starts a shift before 9am).

o After 6–8 hours of night driving (when a driver starts a shift in the afternoon or evening). o After five consecutive shifts when driving again for over 13 hours. o When driving an early shift that starts after midnight and before 6am. o During the first 1-2 night shifts a driver undertakes and during long night shift sequences. o When a driver undertakes a backward shift rotation (from an evening, back to afternoon, or an afternoon back to a morning start). o After long shift sequences of more than seven shifts. o During nose-to-tail shifts where a seven-hour break only enables five hours of sleep – a duration previously associated with a three-fold increased risk for motor vehicle accidents.

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WATM • June 2019

11

Over to you A FAIR GO FOR OWNER DRIVERS by Ray Pratt

T

ruck driving is a great career and while it is easy to list all the positive things about the transport industry it is also just as easy to make a list of the negative aspects.

I often meet up with old retired truck drivers and over a coffee we reminisce about the so called good old days. And there were many things about the industry that were good, just as there were many things that were not so good.

When we think of the past we just seem to touch on what was good. The good was that the roads were not as busy and the comradeship was a lot better and paperwork was simple. It was unthinkable to drive past a truck parked on the side of the road with its bonnet up. The unwritten rule was that you always stopped and helped someone in trouble. Even though we were always trying to make a big mile any excuse to stop and have a chat was a welcome break in a day’s work.

There was always time to stop for a meal and socialise with fellow truck drivers. The way work and trips are scheduled nowadays it is a rarity to see truck drivers stop for any reason. The pressure is on to keep to a tight schedule and because we are monitored by on board cameras and tracking devices means that nobody has the time to stop and help and socialise anymore.

Is anybody listening to what I am saying?

In no other occupation are workers subjected to such scrutiny and evasion of privacy.

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WATM • June 2019

One of the best changes in the transport industry was the introduction of our fatigue laws. For a while, we resisted because this represented a big change for truck drivers and one thing truck drivers hate are changes to how we work. It took a while for the penny to drop, but eventually we woke up to ourselves and realised that this was implemented for our benefit and that if we complied we could start to live a normal life and it was good to be able to have a normal amount of sleep each and every night.

The two main problems that occurred was the lack of enforcement and transport companies still scheduled trips that had unrealistic expectations regarding delivery times. So it became normal to fudge the actual time we drove and the time we rested.

It’s time that this charade was scrutinised.

Do not start with the truck driver but start at the top of the Chain with the wealthy multinational companies that bully their way into setting unrealistic delivery

Is anybody listening to what I am saying? In no other occupation are workers subjected to such scrutiny and evasion of privacy

conditions and cheap rates onto everyone else in the transport industry.

So again I ask the question is anyone listening? We keep hearing about the average age of truck drivers is around fifty years of age. I agree that it is difficult for younger people to become truck drivers but it is no different than a lot of other industries. Do you really want young people with very little experience driving large heavy trucks on busy roads? It is a natural process that they can work their way into the industry and gain a bit of experience as they get older. Insurance companies are not stupid in making it difficult for them because they know that they are more accident prone in their early years.

Truck drivers in there fifties and older should not be frowned upon because of their age because you will find that most have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience that makes them a valuable asset. Instead we should be encouraging them to stay in the industry for as long as they wish providing they can still drive safe.

I know many drivers that drive safely well into their seventies. The sad reality is that many older truck drivers cannot wait to leave the industry because they are sick of the poor working conditions. Is anyone listening to me because everyone else thinks they have the answers to the transport industry’s problems but nobody asks a truck driver.

Keep it safe, Ray Pratt

News

$1.7 billion transformation of Tonkin Highway and eastern corridor

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s part of the 2019-20 State Budget, the State Government has launched a major roads package to transform roads across Perth's eastern suburbs and throughout the Tonkin Highway corridor.

As a signature component of the upcoming Budget, the latest package of works will tackle some of Perth's most congested intersections and roads. It will also address the bottleneck on Tonkin Highway that stretches across the Swan River from Guildford Road to Great Eastern Highway.

The eastern suburbs package adds to the 20 major road projects that are currently underway or about to start construction across the entire Perth metropolitan area.

This year's State Budget will include $1.52 billion for eight new road projects across the eastern suburbs of Perth. A further $156 million is already committed for eastern suburban projects, including completing the Reid Highway duplication and the Roe Highway-Kalamunda Road interchange. These two projects will commence in 2019, creating 1,000 jobs.

The Tonkin Highway Transformation will get underway in 2020, creating 5,200 jobs:

• Tonkin Highway Gap - widening Tonkin Highway from Great Eastern Highway to just north of Guildford Road ($58 million State, $232 million Federal); • Tonkin Highway grade separated interchanges at Kelvin and Welshpool roads and a new flyover at Hale Road ($73 million State, $293 million Federal); and • Tonkin Highway extension from Thomas Road to South Western Highway in Mundijong ($101 million State, $404 million Federal).

The Roe Highway package of projects will also start in 2020, creating 1,050 jobs: • Great Eastern Highway Bypass grade separated interchanges at Roe Highway and Abernethy Road ($36 million State, $144 million Federal); and • Abernethy Road Upgrade ($13.25 million State, $13.25 million Federal).

The seventh most congested intersection at Leach Highway and Welshpool Road will also be fixed with a grade separated interchange, creating 400 jobs ($46.5 million State, $46.5 million Federal), with construction starting in 2020.

Further works to commence in the eastern suburbs in 2020 will include: • Lloyd Street Extension from Great Eastern Highway Bypass to Clayton Street in Midland ($20 million State, $20 million Federal), creating 245 jobs; and • Thomas Road and Nicholson Road intersection upgrade in Oakford ($10 million State, $10 million Federal), creating 105 jobs.

The State Government has successfully made the case for this investment with both the Federal Government and Federal Opposition, laying the groundwork of planning, business case preparation and ongoing advocacy.

This has paid off - securing the Commonwealth contributions for each of the projects in its recent budget and securing a commitment from Federal Labor to at least match the funding in the Federal Budget.

WA Premier Mark McGowan said, “This $1.7 billion roads package will deliver long-lasting improvements for motorists, and it will help to support our economy by creating 8,000 jobs for Western Australians.

It will also address the bottleneck on Tonkin Highway that stretches across the Swan River from Guildford Road to Great Eastern Highway

WATM • June 2019

13

Over to you WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

Job losses but job shortages

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WATM • June 2019

A

t the moment we are receiving two very different messages from members.

On one hand, we are experiencing a shortage of skilled drivers, yet on the other hand many transport and logistics businesses are experiencing very tough times including layoffs.

The WA economy is tough The West Australian economy is not good at the moment; it has one of the highest unemployment rates in the country. Even the fall in April 2019 figures has been put down to people actually leaving the workforce rather than new jobs being created. House prices are $100,000 lower than at the peak according to Corelogic report in April 2019.

It is just tough conditions, with month to month uncertainty and on-going downward trends on transport rates in many segments.

People in the industry, especially corporate middle management are feeling the pressure of job insecurity. Smaller

to mid-sized companies are feeling the pressure at management levels as they work longer hours as many lack business confidence to employ new staff. Yes, there are exceptions, however most businesses in the industry are feeling the pressure.

“From a finance point of view, we’re seeing more and more enquiries from businesses requiring assistance with their cashflow.

Enquiries have been from as little as a $25K unsecured business loans to refinancing of unencumbered trucks/trailers/equipment right up to the larger confidential Debtor Finance requirements. This may assist them with their business Cashflow requirements but also may assist to clear out or reduce any ATO debt too.” Darren Riley DOSH Finance

But we have a shortage But against all of this we receive the constant message from our members and non-members that we lack suitably qualified drivers – from couriers to road trains and pretty much everything in between. Also, a lack of suitably qualified

heavy vehicle mechanics is frequently reported.

Someone explained to me today, that in retail the further you are away from a cash register the more insecure your job. And that may be the case in transport, where the further away you are from the wheel the more insecure your job at the moment.

WA will turn around Western Australia is a project driven economy and with $73 billion of projects in the pipeline or under consideration according to WA Business News then the future looks bright.

The problem is if we are short of suitably qualified drivers now where are we going to be at when the economy picks up pace again?

To avoid that, we need to be investing in

training a range of new drivers now. Both to meet current demand and to meet the upswing.

Firstly, let’s clarify what is meant by a skilled driver shortage. Yes there are lots of people out there with different levels of truck licences but companies do not consider them suitably qualified. A licence to drive a truck does not make someone a qualified professional truck driver. That is that are not a skilled or suitably qualified driver. What we can say is that they are not job ready.

So what do they need to be a suitably qualified driver? Well in addition to more time behind the wheel, being coached or mentored, they also need to know load restraint, mass and dimension requirements and how to meet them and on an on and on and on. Because a truck

driver is a person who actually needs to know a lot of things but also needs to have the skills to do them. Our members are currently working through the type of knowledge and skills they are think are needed.

Success often comes from investment in the darkest of times So whilst the industry is under pressure at the moment we also need to be looking to the future. We need to be developing and training new qualified (skilled) drivers. We are well advanced on solutions for that, which will be announced in due course.

Our members are working through the development of the solutions both short and long term and if you want to get involved then please contact us.

Because a truck driver is a person who actually needs to know a lot of things but also needs to have the skills to do them

WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION IS THE UNITED VOICE OF WA TRANSPORT COMPANIES Western Roads Federation has been formed to give a strong unified voice for companies who use WA roads for commercial benefit.

Western Roads Federation is a membership driven organisation. If you believe in the industry and what you do, then make sure your company is a member, and get involved.

For a membership application form Email cam.dumesny@westernroads.com.au ◆ Phone 08 9365 7799 180 Hay St, East Perth WA 6004

WATM • June 2019

15

News

Online freight matching services provide a ground-breaking new way for transporters to find work

T

he nature of the freight industry is changing, our world is moving towards a digital age and the Transport industry is no different. These days freight companies who are adopting and embracing technology have been excelling and performing significantly better than those who are not open to adopting technology into their business model. Embracing the technological changes has seen transportation companies increase their sales, widen their customer base and illustrate a flexibility to bid on jobs. The technology has also given transporters the ability to bid for jobs that are convenient to them and has given them a flexibility to take on jobs that they choose.

Technology has enhanced the Transport industry with companies adapting to the technological advances and adapting their business models to achieve sales from online platforms and marketplaces that allow consumers to place bids and freight companies to respond to those bids with an offer. Online transport marketplaces

are one way that technology is affecting the Transport industry. Successful transport companies are changing their business models to keep up with the changing expectations and demands of consumers. Consumers now want their experience to be simple, easy and quick.

All of these three qualities are what these online marketplaces such as Delivery Quote Compare are built upon, giving both consumers and Transporters an easy and simple solution to finding someone to complete their job or finding jobs to complete.

Adapting your business model to the changing interests of consumers and the market in general is very important in any business environment and it is something that Transporters should take into consideration when looking to increase their customer base and sales into their business. The adaptation of this new technology has proven to be beneficial in supporting businesses growth in their consumer base and find convenient jobs

in the local area. With a database of over 40,000 users, transporters can use the online marketplace as a tool to promote their business as a trusted transporter and increase revenue easily into their business.

Delivery companies and transporters are branching into profitable new avenues to gain business like never before, utilising online platforms such as Delivery Quote Compare, to directly reach thousands of consumers each week. The quote comparison platform is enabling transport providers to increase revenue, save time on sales enquiries and boost their sales through a free online, no-obligation marketplace connecting transporters with jobs that suit their preferences.

The Delivery Quote Compare marketplace allows small businesses to grow and compete against larger delivery and transportation companies, without spending any money. Transporters who are currently signed up to Delivery Quote Compare have been overwhelmed with the service and results of jobs they’ve received.

“We have been using Delivery Quote Compare for a while now and the site is excellent, and the staff are all really helpful.”

“I would recommend the site to anybody who is looking for transport work or anybody who is looking to get something moved, from small items, large items or even a vehicle,” stated AH Automotive’s owner.

Delivery Quote Compare’s online

ATO collects more than $500 million from illegal phoenix operators

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he Australian Taxation Office has collected more than $500 million in revenue as a result of audits of illegal phoenix operators since the Phoenix Taskforce started in November 2014. The direct impact of illegal phoenix activity is estimated to cost the Australian community between $2.85 billion and $5.13 billion.

The Phoenix Taskforce comprises 34 Federal, State and Territory government agencies, including the ATO, Australian Securities and Investments Commission,

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WATM • June 2019

Department of Jobs and Small Business, the Fair Work Ombudsman and Australian Border Force.

“We see illegal phoenix activity all over the country in many industries and locations. Illegal phoenix operators have a devastating impact on the community, including businesses, employees and contractors. It also means that state and federal governments can’t invest as much on initiatives that benefit all Australians,” Mr Day said.

Illegal phoenix activity is particularly prevalent in major centres in building and construction, labour hire, payroll services and security services. It is also particularly prevalent in regional Australia in mining, agriculture, horticulture and transport.

There is more information about illegal phoenix activity, including warning signs to look out for, where to go for help, and results of the Phoenix Taskforce at ato.gov.au/Phoenix

platform allows for easy and fast communication between customers seeking delivery services and transporters.

They provide customers with a simple way to list their items requiring transport and a tailored way for transporters to provide quotes on the delivery jobs.

David East, Founder and Managing Director of Delivery Quote Compare Australia, has been receiving positive feedback from transporters who are benefiting from the online marketplace.

“Delivery Quote Compare offers a real value-added service to owner operator transport companies, SMEs and man and van businesses.”

“It makes sense for transporters to have profiles in the one place where customers can compare on price, customer reviews and ratings. Instead of requiring large budgets for expensive advertising to compete in the market, smaller transport companies now have a level playing field to win work, free of charge,” he said.

With consumers leaning towards online platforms, flexibility and innovation is the key to business success. The shift in consumers’ preferences for accessing services quickly and easily online creates an opportunity for businesses to meet the demands of customers utilising new avenues.

Delivery Quote Compare enables transporters to: • Take a pro-active approach to finding jobs by searching a single site, easily and quickly • Expand their customer base free of charge. They are the one platform for customers needing quotes and have thousands of customers looking for transporters • Grow their transportation business and boost sales via an online, no-obligation,

cost-free marketplace • Utilise the easy search function to find jobs suitable to their specific routes and job preferences • Enable an auto-bid function which will automatically quote jobs based on their preferences and take away the time required to manually view hundreds of jobs • Receive a personalised supportive service for their business, completely free of charge with customers paying 100% of the quote.

“The online marketplace will allow transporters to find jobs that are convenient to them based on the job’s location, size or time so that they’re able work around other tasks and choose a job that meets their availability and capability.

“At Delivery Quote Compare, not only do we make life easier for the transporters, we also make the whole process smoother for customers,” says Mr East.

About Delivery Quote Compare: Delivery Quote Compare’s digital platform offers an online marketplace that supports transportation businesses, helping them grow and reach customers. Delivery Quote Compare operates as a free, easy to use service for transporters that doesn’t take a cut from the quoted price. Transporters can browse, bid and complete jobs that are specific to their individual needs. It’s a unique and convenient opportunity for transporters to find their ideal jobs for them in the one convenient place.

Delivery Quote Compare partners with transporters across Australia. No job is too far, too big, or even too small to list on our marketplace. Because of this, Delivery Quote Compare offers a platform for any and all transportation companies to find additional work.

The Eastern seaboard is saturated with

transportation companies travelling up and down the coast and business is booming for them. What of the Western seaboard though? Delivery Quote Compare has hundreds of jobs listed a week going in and out of Western Australia.

These jobs are both locally, within Western Australia, as well as interstate, and sometimes international. It is the right time to join Delivery Quote Compare as a transporter in Western Australia, no matter what type of transport you specialise in, the marketplace will have something for you.

50% of all customers’ needs transported in and out of Western Australia consist of general items such as single pieces of furniture, boxes of personal non-dangerous belongings, and vehicle parts. Along with these general items, Delivery Quote Compare has ample listings for vehicles to be transported from the West to East coast.

The marketplace allows transporters to plan their routes in advance, to ensure they also have loads for the return trip to Western Australia, optimising the use of resources and increasing profitability.

“Delivery Quote Compare understands and appreciates the unique landscape and locations of Western Australia and our team are familiar the different types of business operating within it. Whether you specialise in automotive transport from single vehicles to restricted access vehicle permit holders, or you operate a courier company from a Ute or van to having an entire fleet, Delivery Quote Compare is the place for you and your business,” finishes Mr East.

For further information visit www.deliveryquotecompare.com.au

Phoenix activity warning signs for business owners Business owners should look out for these warning signs which may indicate that a business they are working with may be involved in an illegal phoenix operation: • a competitor is offering significantly lower quotes or you are given a quote that is lower than market value • the directors of a company you are working with have been involved with

liquidated entities • a company you are working with requests payments to a new company • recent changes of company directors and name, but the manager and staff remain the same.

If a business notices these signs, you should: • confirm the entity is registered and its Australian business number (ABN) is valid at abr.business.gov.au • visit asic.gov.au and search the ASIC

Connect registers to ensure the company you are working with is a registered entity and if it is in liquidation or external administration • ask for references • do a credit check on the entity • complete an online search on the company and its directors for any adverse media reports.

“Protect yourself from illegal phoenix activity” Phoenix hotline: 1800 807 875 WATM • June 2019

17

News

CRAP CAR RALLY PROMOTES BOWEL CANCER SCREENING

L

ast month 550 participants from across Australia gathered at Optus Stadium – the official start line for the 10th annual Shitbox Rally.

It was a spectacle of costumes with each team of two having spent endless hours sourcing, decorating and getting their ‘shitbox’ car – a vehicle worth less than $1,000 – ready in the hopes of completing the 5150 kilometre adventure to Sydney.

The Shitbox Rally is not a car race; it’s a journey across some of Australia’s dustiest, bumpiest outback roads and the largest independent fundraiser for Cancer Council nationally.

The rally has raised over $18.4 million to date, breaking records in 2019 by beating the target of $2 million before the rally began.

Cancer Council WA CEO Ashley Reid and his brother Chris Reid took part in the rally for the first time.

“We were thrilled to participate in this year’s Box Rally. It was incredible to see the enthusiasm and commitment from the teams to raise much-needed funds for such a great cause” Mr Reid said.

To help raise awareness of bowel cancer and increase participation in the national screening program, their vehicle – a 2001 CLK Mercedes – was redecorated to include a giant bowel screening kit on the boot.

“We know bowel cancer claims the lives of around one hundred Australians every week. Symptoms can often be silent, so screening is absolutely critical for early detection,” Mr Reid said.

“Of the 3.2 million people invited to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program between 2015 and 2016, only 41 per cent participated.”

“If you’re 50 or over you’ll get a kit every two years in the mail – it’s free, simple to use and could save your life.”

The 2019 route saw participants drive via Uluru across four states, finishing at Centennial Park in Sydney on Friday May 17.

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WATM • June 2019

L-R James Freeman - Shitbox Rally Founder, Ashley Reid CCWA CEO and Chris Reid

Light vehicle drivers targeted by top trucking safety tips

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vertaking, road positioning and stopping distances are some of the key issues addressed in a new series of videos educating light vehicle drivers how to behave around trucks.

NHVR Corporate Affairs Executive Director Joe Fitzgerald said the video series by Whiteline Television was based on key themes highlighted by truck drivers asked to identify the most common safety issues they encountered while working on the road.

“When a light vehicle driver makes a mistake around a heavy vehicle, the consequences can be extremely serious, even fatal,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

“I’m concerned that there is no formal requirement to teach new drivers about sharing the road with heavy vehicles. Nor is it a focus for most driver education programs.

“That’s why this series of short videos is a great quick and easy way of reminding drivers how to share the road safely particularly during the busy holiday periods.”

The videos were produced by

Whiteline Television and funded by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Commonwealth Government.

Whiteline Television’s Executive Producer Stephen McCarthy said the videos were co-hosted by heavy vehicle safety advocate Rod Hannifey and radio presenter Nicole Rutledge.

“The videos use a combination of on-road scenarios, graphics and animations to explain each tip in a straightforward and down-to-earth way,” Mr McCarthy said.

“They were Rod’s brainchild, leading on from his driver surveys to identify truckies’ top tips.

“It’s also great to have Nicole lending her support, because she’s from a transport family. Her grandfather and father owned their own transport companies, and her father has been inducted into the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.”

The videos were initially rolled out daily on social media over the busy Easter holiday period and for more information visit: www.sharetheroad.net.au

News

Significant expansion to WA’s roadside drug testing program

T

he State Government has drug affected drivers in its sights with funding for a record number of roadside drug tests.

A total of $7.4 million has been provided to the Western Australia Police Force to allow officers to conduct a record 42,500 drug tests along with more than 1.9 million alcohol breath tests in the 2019-20 financial year.

This represents a five-fold increase on the number of roadside drug tests carried out in 2013-14, when just 7,997 tests were carried out.

New penalties for drug affected drivers are currently being drafted and are expected to be introduced into State Parliament later this year.

The initiatives are part of the State Governments commitment and focus to road safety and determination to take dangerous drivers off our roads.

Police and Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts said, “Driving under the influence of drugs is reckless and irresponsible.

“I don't want mine or anyone else's family to have to share the roads with these dangerous drivers.

“That’s why we are putting fresh resources into tackling the problem and why we will introduce tougher penalties into the Parliament.

WA designed and constructed Rexx delivers in demanding mine trials

A

revolutionary new mining haul truck designed and constructed in Western Australia by Bis, has delivered outstanding results in trials at a working mine in the North Eastern Goldfields.

Known as Rexx, the dual powered 20-wheel dump truck has been designed with a range of features specifically incorporated to deliver savings to Bis customers.

Rexx has more than four times the range of conventional dump trucks, outstanding manoeuvrability, operator comfort and maintainability plus on demand power that lowers fuel consumption.

Bis CEO Brad Rogers said the testing at Glencore’s Murrin Murrin mine has been carried out in `real-life’ operating conditions and the results to date indicated Rexx had the capacity to deliver up to a 30 per cent reduction in operating costs compared with conventional dump trucks. Rexx

will deliver savings to miners as part of Bis’ integrated haulage solution.

Mr Rogers said one area of the savings which could be passed on to Bis customers in haulage costs was average fuel use by Rexx, which was around half the fuel consumed by equivalent competing dump trucks.

The fuel savings are a direct consequence of Rexx being designed with patented on-demand power that lowers fuel consumption. The vehicle has the capacity to carry enough fuel for at least two 12hour shifts, eliminating downtime needed for refuelling.

Mr Rogers said Rexx had been designed in-house by the Bis engineering team while the construction had utilised the talent of Western Australian tradespeople.

Mining Manager at Murrin Murrin, David Ayres, said “We were thrilled to be involved with Bis on this exciting project. Outside of autonomous systems, there haven’t been many major fundamental design changes in the rigid-frame off-highway game in a long time.”

WATM • June 2019

19

Focus DANGEROUS GOODS By Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS)

TRANSPORTING AMMUNITION

Explosives marked vehicle

T

here is still confusion in the transport industry around the transport of ammunition, propellant powder and black powder. Some people think that ammunition is regulated by WA Police and overlook that ammunition is also regulated as an explosive by DMIRS (and vice versa). Others think that no requirements apply because ammunition is a class 1.4S explosive.

Ammunition, propellant powder and

black powder are classified as class 1 explosives under the Dangerous Goods Safety (Explosives) Regulations 2007 (Explosives Regulations) and as ammunition under the Firearms Act 1973 (Firearms Act).

This means that both sets of legislation apply when transporting these products.

Not any company can transport these products. Under the Firearms Act, a commercial carrier must have authority to possess firearms or ammunition, including

any component of ammunition. Hence, if a transporter does not have authority to possess ammunition, then they cannot transport these products.

To transport ammunition and its components, a commercial carrier can apply for an exemption to become an ‘approved commercial carrier’. The exemption can be provided by the WA Police Licensing Services (Firearms) once a number of requirements are met. The approved carrier requirements are listed on the application for exemption which is available on the WA Police website at: www.police.wa.gov.au/ Police-Direct/Licensing/Firearms The exemption application requires preparation of a security plan. The security plan lays out how the carrier will keep these explosives secure during transport.

The plan should cover the entire journey, operations, different types of journeys the company is involved in and different credible scenarios the transporter may encounter. WA Police will assess the plan to ensure the measures to keep the explosives secure during transport are adequate.

Under the Explosives Regulations, DMIRS allows the transport of ammunition with police approval alone. However, depending on the quantity, transporting

Chevron

News

New job-creating development set for Elizabeth Quay

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WATM • June 2019

C

hevron Australia is proud of our significant investment in Western Australia. That’s why we’re excited to have recently signed an agreement with property developer Brookfield Property Partners for their purchase and development of 1 The Esplanade at Elizabeth Quay. Part

of this agreement includes a long-term commitment by Chevron to lease back the completed building for our new Perth headquarters,” says Chevron Australia Managing Director Al Williams.

Mr Williams continues, “As a leading employer in Perth we are excited about

propellant powder and black powder requires both police approval and an Explosives Transport Licence (ETL) from DMIRS. A transport operator can transport the following without an ETL: • any quantity of ammunition • up to and including 50 kg (gross weight) of propellant powder • not more than 4 kg of black powder.

An ETL is required in addition to the commercial carrier exemption when transporting above these quantities. The application for the ETL can be found on the DMIRS website at: www.dmp.wa.gov. au/Dangerous-Goods/Applying-for-anexplosives-4683.aspx When the company requires an ETL for transporting larger quantities, the driver must have a dangerous goods security card, an explosives driver’s licence and be a secure nominee of the ETL licensee.

Secure nominees are those people who are security cleared, trained and authorised by the company to have unsupervised access to explosives. The company is required to keep a register of secure nominees.

The transporter must prepare an explosives management plan as part of their application for an ETL. This is an extension of the security plan as it addresses emergency preparedness in addition to the security measures.

Irrespective of whether a transporter

Under the Firearms Act, a commercial carrier must have authority to possess firearms or ammunition, including any component of ammunition holds an ETL or not, the company still has to comply with the requirements of the Australian Code for the Transport of Explosives by Road and Rail – 3rd edition (AEC 3). In general, this means: • transporting the goods in locked containers • containers being secured in accordance with the Load Restraint Guide 2018 • a transport document for the load • possible marking of the vehicle depending upon the quantities being transported • possible carrying of fire extinguishers and other safety equipment depending on load quantity Further guidance on the requirements can be found in the DMIRS Dangerous

Explosives marked box

Companies wanting to transport ammunition, propellant powder and black powder must: • obtain a carrier’s licence from WA Police • apply for an ETL from DMIRS depending upon the quantity carried • comply with AEC 3 • drivers may require an explosives driver’s licence depending upon the quantity carried.

The development will provide more jobs, maximising local development industry involvement including equipment and services. this iconic waterfront development reflecting our long-term commitment to the Perth community and Western Australia.”

The design of the new building includes a two-level basement, a 29-level office building and an integrated threelevel podium. Other facilities include a gym, childcare, food and beverage outlets, conference facilities and state of the art end of trip facilities.

The premium grade tower will be a highlight of Perth’s city skyline and will feature exceptional views of the Swan River, Supreme Court Gardens and Langley Park. The integration of retail and public space will provide the wider Perth

goods safety guidance note Transport of explosives on roads and at mines at: www.dmp.wa.gov.au/Documents/ Dangerous-Goods/ DGS_GN_TransportOf ExplosivesOnRoadsAndAtMines.pdf

community with a lively new commercial area.

Construction of the $360 million project is due to begin next year, with the tower expected to be completed in 2023.

During the development and construction phase approximately 1,000 people will be employed onsite.

Brookfield managing partner Sophie Fallman said the development was a vote of confidence in the Perth office rental market, which has been plagued by extremely high vacancy rates amid an economic slowdown in recent years.

Elizabeth Quay opened in early 2016, with then premier Colin Barnett estimating at the time that the private

construction surrounding the inlet would take five to seven years.

In December 2018, the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority granted Chevron Australia development approval for the site.

In recommending the proposal for approval, the Central Perth Land Redevelopment Committee noted the unique architectural design and a mix of commercial, dining and entertainment, retail and community land uses that will complement Elizabeth Quay.

The development will provide more jobs, maximising local development industry involvement including equipment and services.

WA Premier Mark McGowan said, "I'm thrilled with Chevron's commitment to WA, it shows confidence in our State's future and will be a boost for the economy.

WATM • June 2019

21

Over to you There was a change in the ute classes, the Feral Ute was changed to Biggest Ute and Eddy Van Dongen was a clear winner with the tray back Kenworth.

A Weekend away at Bencubbin Mt Marshall Motor Show A few weeks ago the HCVC headed off to Bencubbin for the Annual show that included the Mt Marshall Motor Show.

HCVC members had four trucks on display and they scooped the prize pool.

Best Vintage: Kevin Lockyer’s International

Colin Day from Stoneville made the trip up to Bencubbin with a few of his mates who helped him restore this great looking R600 Mack. The Mack has the 237 Maxidine motor and roadranger transmission. It took four years to restore the truck, most of the major mechanicals were ok but the cab had severe rust and Colin and his team had to hand make some of the panels.

Shiniest: Peter Johnston’s Chevrolet.

This picture and right) Competition between Ford and Holden enthusiasts started many years ago; here are a couple of fine examples from the 1970’s. Also from the same era a white Valiant ute making up the big three.

The winning members received very nice handmade trophies and excellent prizes including a chainsaw, framed print and bottles of wine.

22

WATM • June 2019

Best Working: Dave Lindsay’s Ford

History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon

1957 S

everal cases this year arose where bus operators could not operate on the daily run due to mechanical breakdown and operators had to use personal cars. The secretary of the Road Board compelled one operator to license his car for hire and reward, pay a greater third-party insurance fee and pay for hire plates. This was wrong as there was a provision in the Traffic Act that authorised the Road Board to permit a privately licensed vehicle being operated for the service while the bus was under repair; while doing so the car was covered by the third-party policy without any additional premium being paid.

The Building Materials’ Section reported concerns over the strict enforcement of the traffic regulations where loads of 2000 bricks would in future be prohibited and figures were giving showing that 1750 bricks would be the maximum loads to be carried.

For the cartage of six yards of sand or loam, the same problem was encountered and it was agreed that in future, loads of five tons only could be carried with safety on most of the tip trucks used.

Some highlights of the 45th Annual General Meeting on August 8: • Amended traffic regulations concerning licences and parking; • Objection to the double licence fee to be charged on diesel vehicles; • Success at gaining more parking areas for commercial vehicles in Perth City;

• The elimination of double parking in the city; • The committee met 24 times on a fortnightly basis with often only two apologies recorded; • A sub-committee of the Association met the Fremantle Harbour Trust monthly for the purpose of expediting removal of cargo with only “mediocre” success; • The improvement in cartage figures following the closure of train lines; • The road transport industry had grown enormously despite restrictions, iniquitous taxation, unjust statements made in the past by its opponents, with a view to protesting the railways.

• It was now noticeable that those opponents had turned around, become road-minded and complimentary to the industry.

By 1957, the trend away from rail transport had resulted in the closure of more than 812 miles of track, nearly 20 percent of the State network. Many of the closures were in the Goldfields and Upper Murchison and were replaced by Government-subsidised road services.

Mr J B Cole, the State chairman of the School Bus Operators’ Section, stood down in 1957 as he was selling his bus at Goomalling after 12 years in business. A former Royal Navy officer who spent two years on English Channel patrol during World War I, Mr Cole also did 20 months in the Arctic Circle, stationed at Archangel

in Russia. One of his claims to fame in a chequered career was owning a Globe Car on which by pressure on a stationary clutch pedal pushed the seat back, releasing the belt running from the engine to the rear axle; to put the car in motion the foot pressure was released, the seat coming forward, taking up the slack in the belt, which brought about the movement of the car forward by means of a belt to the back axle. There was no reverse gear. Only 17 of these cars were made.

Six hundred people attended the dual funeral of Ballidu school bus operator Roy Hoddy who was killed in a traffic accident along with his friend on August 11.

The Transport Association Ball was held on August 30 with 430 in attendance. More than £300 was raised for Nulsen Haven, run by the Mentally Incurable Children’s Association.

A Special Meeting of the Furniture Removers’ Division was held on October 25 to discuss the cost undercutting of South Australia carrier Richard Mitchell & Co, a non-member. The Section decided to meet the company head on and cut cartage rates to Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney by between 10 and 25 percent on Monday next. The South Australian Road Transport Association was to be contacted regarding the issue and an affidavit lodged.

The High Court declared invalid the decision by South Australia to impose a onepenny-per-ton tax on inter-State vehicles.

By 1957, the trend away from rail transport had resulted in the closure of more than 812 miles of track, nearly 20 percent of the State network

WATM • June 2019

23

Over to you MODEL TRUCKS

WATM welcomes your submissions to our model truck section.

If you have a model truck, trailer or anything else of interest, we want to know about it. Please contact Vince Ziino on 0408 767 755 or email him at ziinos@iinet.net.au to discuss.

Volvo F12 THE LATE WAYNE GALLOWAY of Perth built this lovely Volvo F12.

The truck started as an Italeri Volvo F12 single axle. Wayne extended the chassis to accommodate a long flat-bed which he had scratch built out of Evergreen modelling plastic. The Volvo was converted to right hand drive, and Wayne added spider rims. Finished in blue acrylic it was a truck Wayne was very proud of and rightfully so.

Wayne from Truck Modellers of Western Australia - you’ll be sadly missed my friend but never be forgotten. A trophy of ‘Best of Show’ will be presented at our next model show in honour of our dear friend Wayne Galloway. Rest in Peace my dear friend and may you join us in spirit at our next show.

COMMISSION BUILDS Vince Ziino is available to do commission builds for companies or a personal model of your truck .

Please contact Vince on 0408767755 or ziinos@iinet.net.au 24

WATM • June 2019

REPAIRS

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