WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - DECEMBER 2021 EDITION by Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd

THE TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY MAGAZINE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

ISSN 2202-6193 100007516 December 2021 | price $6.95

TRANSPORT magazine

IN THIS ISSUE: Insurance exemption for industry Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship Are the wheels falling off? Let’s talk RTAAs

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THE UNEXPECTED STORY BEHIND THE LOGMASTER APP AND WHY YOU'LL NEVER WANT TO BE WITHOUT IT The average driver spends between 200-350 hours per year in their truck and compliance preparation takes an additional 180 hours. Technology is making the world smaller and Australian company Logmaster has embraced this at its core to give truck drivers a time saving app that satisfies WA requirements. WATM • December 2021

Our Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk is available 7 days a week. Talk to us about: Permits

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The Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk is open from: 7am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 3.30pm Saturday, Sunday and WA public holidays.

Main Roads Heavy Vehicle Services 525 Great Eastern Highway REDCLIFFE 6104

Tel: 138 486 Fax: 9475 8455 Email: hvs@mainroads.wa.gov.au www.mainroads.wa.gov.au 3 WATM • October 2021

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he TWU are always fighting for transport workers. We continue to hear complaints from members about the state of the transport industry. Some of the complaints include quality of driver training, or just general training in the transport industry, the way workers are treated, and the conditions long distance drivers put up with, as well as the pay and conditions of transport workers. I wonder what the industry would be like if it was not for the Transport Workers Union? The TWU has a great history of fighting for transport workers to this day and into the future. From the turn of the 19th century, standing up for owner operators, trolly and draymen. Continuing through the decades, after the industrial revolution the TWU has been at the forefront, fighting for the worker. In the late 70’s, early 80’s, the union movement lead the way in the fight for

What has the Union done for me? By Tim Dawson | Branch Secretary

Many transport workers on TWU agreements receive super up to 15%, wages and rates 3040% above the Award and clauses in their TWU agreements that guarantee job security superannuation and dignity in retirement that some working people take for granted. In 2021, we continue our fight to keep clients accountable, the big companies, fuel and oil, mining, all the way to the banks. Making sure that during our negotiations with all the major companies we get good outcomes around wages and conditions.

Many transport workers on TWU agreements receive super up to 15%, wages and rates 30-40% above the Award and clauses in their TWU agreements that guarantee job security. Lifting 2-3 tier companies up to where the majors are and continuing the fight to lift all transport workers up. But the fight never ends. In last 18 months we have lobbied the State Government for: - Funding for driving training, securing $6M - Improved truck parking bays and road train assembly areas, securing $14M in the 21-22 budget and $36M in the 22-23 budget, also improving overtaking lanes. - Construction of new lights and cameras with improved fencing on the Fitzroy Crossing - A peer-to-peer Mental Health program to improve the mental health of drivers on our roads, securing between $250-300,000 And we should soon have the review of the Owner Driver Act in parliament that will improve the sustainability of the transport industry, especially for owner drivers. Yet we still see workers in transport yards that ask what the Union has done for them. They enjoy 30-40% above award rates, super up to 15%, job security clauses and millions of dollars squeezed out of governments to make roads safer and their working conditions better. It should be asked what you are doing to pay your way, like the other 1000’s of members of the TWU. How much more would be achieved if all transport workers got on board and stood together. One united industry - there would be nothing we could not achieve. Join the Union NOW.

WORK IN TRANSPORT?

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PROTECT YOURSELF! JOIN YOUR UNION

Transport Workers Union - for the people who carry Australia 🌐🌐🌐 www.twuwa.org.au

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TRANSPORT

magazine

VOLUME 27 | NUMBER 11

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd Telephone 0430 153 273 www.angrychicken.com.au ABN: 35 486 530 095

PUBLISHER / COMMISSIONING EDITOR Karen-Maree’ Kaye T: 0430 153 273 Email: karen@angrychicken.com.au WRITERS Karen-Maree' Kaye, Russell McKinnon CONTRIBUTORS Jan Cooper, Cam Dumesny, Carol Messenger, Ray Pratt ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Angry Chicken Head Office T: 0430 153 273 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au DESIGN / PREPRESS Cally Browning | Bare Creative ACCOUNTS T: 0430 153 273 E: accounts@angrychicken.com.au PRINTER Daniels Printing Craftsmen SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions available directly from the Publisher. T: 0430 153 273 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au Australia: 1 year $76.45 (inc GST) 2 years $152.90 (inc GST) Overseas subscribers: Airmail postage will be added to subscription rate. 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.

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.

WATM • December 2021

ots in this edition… A new national Heavy Vehicle Apprenticeship is said to be starting in 2023. Yes, this is not going to help the present situation but it is a significant step towards the professionalisation of the road transport industry in Australia. Read the story on Page 10 – The two year Apprenticeship will be relevant to school students, school leavers and those wanting a career change. The Regional Roadworks Signage review has completed with 13 recommendations and improvements to regional roadworks signage is already underway. Well done to everyone who was involved in this from grass roots industry, community, through to Vince Catania MLA who took it to the state Government. Pages 11 and 14. Check out the new Logmaster Electronic Work Diary. This is the only app that satisfies WA requirements and this is worth

a read if you want to save a lot of time and make things safer for yourself and your drivers - Page 2. Read about the fabulous Jackie Moir from Esperance. This year is Jackie’s 50th year with OD Transport and everyone at OD wanted her to know how much they appreciate her – Page 15. The recent three year review into the National Heavy Vehicle Law has been touted as a failure. In a nutshell, the review has not produced a single legislative amendment that could be introduced into parliament. Find out what happened, or not… Page 20 Gavin Vaughan congratulations on your induction into the Hall of Fame (Page 21) and lastly MERRY CHRISTMAS…. And here’s to a fantastic or at least better than the last two – New Year for all of us. Best,

Karen

CONTENTS 4............................................... T he unexpected story behind the Logmaster app and why you will never want to be without it 6............................................... Insurance exemption to help industry ational Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship to start 2023 10............................................ N

11............................................... Regional Roadworks Signage Review estern Roads Federation – Are the wheels falling off? 12............................................ W

14............................................ Rail safety program for regions extended 15............................................ J ackie Moir – Celebrating 50 years at OD Transport Esperance 16............................................ L RTAWA – Rural transport ‘front and centre’ at Brunswick Show ew insights revealed about supply chain labour shortages 18............................................ N TC release proposal to amend standard working hours 19............................................ N eview into National Heavy Vehicle Law an epic failure 20.......................................... R

21............................................ Hall of Fame – Gavin Vaughan

Every Month 7................................................ Questions to the State Government 8............................................... Fair Go for Owner Drivers 22.......................................... HCVC 24.......................................... WA Transport History

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Focus

The unexpected story behind the Logmaster app and why you'll never want to be without it

ut on the road can be a tough and lonely life but the rewards of getting home safely after a long haul make the driving life worth it. The long hours can be difficult and exhausting which is why driver safety and fatigue management have become top-of-mind issues for all players in the industry. A substantial amount of effort has gone into putting the message out there about taking care on the road, and it's really starting to pay off. Driver safety is undoubtedly what inspired Josh Saunders and business partner Stewart Flecknoe-Brown to launch their company Logmaster in 2019. Josh and Stewart had previously worked

WATM • December 2021

with thousands of drivers to get them started and keep them compliant in the rideshare industry. Driver fatigue was an issue that was constantly being raised as the biggest danger but at the time, there wasn’t really a simple solution. One day Josh went to have lunch with a friend who was a trucking company safety officer. When Josh walked into his office, Brad was sitting at his desk surrounded by paperwork and there was a poster on the wall with the trucker’s prayer. “Keep me safe, get me home" and it really hit me.” says Josh. “We live in a world run by technology. We use our phones for everything, from staying in touch with friends and family,

to running our businesses. People can run their lives and earn a living all from their phones. Phones are no longer just a communication device. “We can now do most things from the comfort of our homes by only using our phones thanks to this new age of technology and it made me think. Why is transport safety still running like my dad used to do things? We no longer use the old referdex thanks to our phones GPS capabilities, or pull out the phonebook to look someone up. So why are we still filling out safety checklists and mountains of compliance paperwork like it's 1999 when there could be a more efficient way to do things.” says Josh. Stewart Flecknoe-Brown has had a similar experience with the traditional way of doing things. "You know, the average driver spends between 200-350 hours per year in their truck, but compliance preparation takes approximately an additional 180 hours per driver per year," he said. "That's a lot of time and effort spent on something none of us enjoy." Stewart and Josh were talking to business owners, industry consultants and telematics companies and they were also lucky to be members of a drivers Whatsapp group. The idea of combating transport safety properly, starting with fatigue management and then incorporating the other typical paperwork got a lot of traction because they saw it was a recurring conversation. Technology is making the world smaller,

and nowhere is this more evident than in our industry. Like any forward-thinking company, Logmaster has embraced technology at its core to give truck drivers the tools they need while away from home. And it's working. Logmaster is the only Electronic Work Diary that satisfies Western Australia’s requirements, it’s available on Apple and Android devices, and includes all the other safety reports and checklists that drivers need to fill out regularly. "It's the ease of using an app that is so appealing to drivers, and now that we've got it up-and-running, you can't stop this thing," said Stewart. "Drivers are telling their friends about us, and they're getting on board too. At the end of the day, people just want to get in their trucks and do their jobs without being bogged down with the paperwork side of things. We're here to give them what they need." The response has been incredible for Josh and Stewart, who believe a critical factor in their success is that they're an agile, independent business that's able to make what is really wanted. There are no arduous corporate processes, just a small team led by their mission to get drivers home safely. Unlike what the larger corporations had on the market that seemed to lack in a lot of areas, Josh and Stewart knew they wanted to create something that would tick all of the boxes, and that's exactly what they’ve done. Logmaster accommodates everything the drivers and their companies need to remain

compliant and not only that, the app is extremely user friendly too. Both men have transport industry roots and they feel obligated to serve the industry. "We're here for the drivers, not to impress anyone above us. If we can achieve our mission of getting drivers home safely, then that's what matters," says Josh. "We're an Australian company, and we understand the issues faced by drivers across this great country because we've been there," added Stewart. "Our team has a combined 30 years in the transport industry, so we know what matters." At the end of a shift, drivers want to know that everything has been finished and that their company has received all the necessary records safely and securely. Electronic logs uploaded securely in the cloud assures drivers that their companies have received the logs and that their records are secure and compliant. Password protecting logbooks on a device ensures that a driver's privacy is protected and records can't be viewed or altered. There's

Getting rid of paperwork and admin, keeping everything privately stored in the driver's phone, leaving time for road selfies and facetime with the wife and kids

less chance of a driver overworking since the entire distance travelled and the total number of hours worked have been recorded and submitted. It's a bulletproof solution for everyone in the industry. "What's fantastic is that this change comes with no extra cost for the driver," says Stewart. “Companies that invest in our technology are recouping their costs in efficiency and staff morale, as drivers are feeling better treated because they’re not being inundated and hounded for paperwork.” Logmaster works on both Android and Apple devices. You can use it on your tablet, or smartphone. "Everyone carries a device these days for keeping in touch with family and getting things done. It just makes sense to be able to use the device you've already got with you to send your info back to the office in real-time, so they know you're safe and compliant right away" says Josh. When asked about future plans for the company, both Saunders and FlecknoeBrown say they're committed to remaining accessible to the industry and staying responsive to driver needs. Josh said they'll "remain focused on working with owners wanting to invest in tech to know their drivers are both safe and compliant."

About Logmaster:

Logmaster was founded in 2019 by Josh Saunders and Stewart Flecknoe-Brown and is now available for iOS and Android users. See www.logmaster.com.au for more information .

Below left, Josh Saunders and right, Stewart Flecknoe-Brown

WATM • December 2021

News

Mack Muster back in 2022

he Western Australian Truck Show that everyone is still talking about is on again - 22nd May 2022 at Quarry Farm in Byford. The inaugural 2020 Show saw 3,500 plus people through the gates and 140 Trucks on display. In 2022 the organisers are expecting the event to grow to 5,000 plus visitors through the gates and 200 Trucks on display. The 2020 show raised $100,000 for the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and MACA Cancer 200 Ride for Research. All proceeds from the 2022 show will once again go directly to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research and MACA Cancer 200 Ride for Research to help make Cancer non-lethal. As a grassroots organisation, the WA Mack Muster and Truck Show relies on local and national partners and sponsors who without the wonderful WA Mack Muster and Truck Show would not be possible. Being a ‘true’ Transport Industry event and a ‘true’ Muster experience on the farm means that both local Transport businesses, owner operators as well as the wider community attend and for those with products and services - this is the perfect place for you to showcase your offerings. If you would like to become a part of the WA Mack Muster and Truck Show family – as WA Transport Magazine is contact Brandon McNee on 0407 444 434 or for Sponsorship Enquiries contact Gerald Cunnold on 0409 118 027

WATM • December 2021

Insurance Exemption to Help Industry

he trucking industry has secured an important exemption from new rules for add-on insurance that will help the industry and its customers. The new rules prohibit the sale of add-on insurance for at least four days after a customer has purchased a product or service. But add-on transport and delivery insurance, including insurance for storage along the way, will be exempt. The Australian Trucking Association (ATA), Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA) and the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA) welcomed the confirmation of the exemption. ATA CEO Michael Deegan said that the exemption was a win for common sense, and thanked Treasurer Josh Frydenberg for his consultation and listening to industry. “Consumers need to be protected from unscrupulous businesses. At the same time, this must be achieved in a way that optimises choice, minimises red tape, and does not impede efficient freight flow or induce good businesses to take unnecessary risks,” Mr Deegan said. “After considering the implications of restricted availability of add on insurance products, our members argued strongly for an exemption, and having sought sound legal advice, we also recommended that the draft exemption be extended to cover incidental storage that may occur as part of the transport task. ALRTA Executive Director Mat Munro said the exemption accommodated the practical needs of the livestock supply chain. “Our member carriers often move livestock at short notice and may need to unload and ‘spell’ animals during the

journey to manage driver fatigue and animal welfare,” Mr Munro said. “In these circumstances, carriers may require add-on transport and incidental storage insurance which must be arranged at the same time as accepting the load. Livestock sold under auction conditions is particularly problematic because neither the owner, value or destination are known prior to sale. “This exemption will ensure that carriers are able to obtain add-on insurance quickly and easily. Choice is maintained and freight will not be delayed. When you are moving live animals, you simply cannot wait four days to acquire an appropriate add-on insurance product,” he said. AFRA Executive Director Simone Hill said the regulations were a win for removals clients, and AFRA were pleased to see this practical and workable outcome. “Moving can be a fraught experience, a time of upheaval and change. During a move, a client's entire world of personal and household belongings is shipped from one place to another,” Ms Hill said. “Should anything happen to those items due to disaster or mishap, it is imperative for a person's financial and mental wellbeing that they are adequately insured. “These regulations ensure moving clients can secure appropriate financial protection, and in turn peace of mind when moving,” she said. The Australian Government is introducing what is called the deferred sales model in response to a recommendation of the Financial Services Royal Commission. The new rules come into force on 5 October 2021.

Over to you QUESTIONS TO THE WA STATE GOVERNMENT

Thank you to our WA State Government for answering WA Transport Magazine reader’s questions. If you have a question that is related to the transport industry please email it to the publisher at: karen@angrychicken.com.au

Question Why are there level crossings over major highways? It's nearly 2022, surely eliminating vehicular/ train interaction is a high safety issue? Karratha for Rio Tinto Yandi, West Angeles lines for Rio Tinto, Chichester Range for FMG Port Hedland for BHP. There are three on great Eastern Highway. Tammin, Kellerberrin, Bodallin for not only grain and other commodities but the east west container trains. Answer from Main Roads Spokesperson Main Roads works with private rail operators to ensure where level crossings exist there is appropriate measures in place for the safety of both rail and road users. In the Pilbara, there have been a number of private/ State Government partnerships to remove level crossings. Commencing mid-2021, three BHP level crossings will be removed as part of the Hedland Road & Rail Safety Improvement | Main Roads Western Australia.

Main Roads also recently completed the Koodaideri Road (recently renamed Bahd-Jarding-Ngu Bridge) over rail bridge in partnership with Rio Tinto - Great Northern Highway - Koodaideri Bridge | Main Roads Western Australia. As part of work for the final stage of Manuwarra Red Dog Highway, which extends from the Rio Tinto rail crossing to Nanutarra-Munjina Road, Main Roads realigned the design so that the new Highway will stay on the western side of the Rio Tinto rail line, minimising the number of rail crossings. In addition, Main Roads is working with FMG for the Eliwana Arch, separating road and rail traffic where Manuwarra Red Dog Highway will meet the Eliwana rail line - Manuwarra Red Dog Highway | Main Roads Western Australia. In 2019, Main Roads completed the Roy Hill Road over Rail Bridge along Great Northern highway, west of Port Hedland Media Statements - Port Hedland's Roy Hill bridge over rail opens. Main Roads will continue to work with both Public and Private rail operators to ensure the safety of road/rail users.

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WATM • December 2021

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

RTAAs and Parking Bays

here have been a couple of issues that truck drivers have been complaining about for some time. The first being the congestion that occurs at the Road Train Assembly Area (RTAA) at Abernethy Road and the second is regarding the lack of truck bays once drivers leave Perth and head up the Great Northern Highway - especially around the Wubin area. The RTAA on Abernethy Road has only been operating about five years but it soon became apparent that it was not large enough to cater for the volume of truck movements in that area. The main reasons the Abernethy Road RTAA it was built was to stop truck drivers from assembling their road trains around the streets of Kewdale and to stop truck drivers from using the Road Houses parking area - which was causing a hazard for themselves and other road users. It’s all about safety but for any RTAA to work successfully it needs to operate efficiently and ‘give’ the hard working truck drivers the facilities they need. Recently, I drove around the area where the Abernethy Road RTAA is and saw not only this RTAA full to overflowing but drivers who had no other option than to assemble their Road Trains in the street again. This is definitely not a good safety outcome and definitely a reason to make it a priority to rectify this situation but first let’s explore ‘why’. First, there is an increase of truck

WATM • December 2021

movements leaving Perth and secondly, some trucking companies are using this facility to park trucks and trailers on a fairly permanent basis. I think this is extremely selfish of them and shame on those responsible. Some drivers are even parking cars in the spot there truck was in just so they can secure a bay for when they returned at the end of the day. In this magazine earlier this year, Main Roads acknowledged that they continue to receive complaints that some operators are leaving trucks, trailers and equipment parked in RTAAs for extended periods of time especially at Abernethy Road, Forrestfield. Main Roads said, “With regards to the Forrestfield RTAA, operators are reminded that companies with yards on Abernethy Road or in close proximity to it should not be using the RTAA, and no light vehicles are to be parked within it. Vehicles must not block the path required for access by oversize loads through the RTAA. Main Roads is currently investigating the potential for installing lockable bollards across both ends of the oversize crossover to prevent parking in that zone and is also developed a Traffic Management Plan for the Forrestfield site, including the enhancement of signage to reflect the terms of use for the RTAA. Main Roads is also liaising with other agencies to establish a management order over the RTAA to allow a wider range of

options to be taken against vehicles parked contrary to the terms of use. However, that does not fix the problem which is this particular RTAA is nowhere big enough for the volume of vehicles that need to legitimately use it so I ask – Why can’t it be made bigger? On the second complaint with the increase in truck movements heading out of Perth every night what is being done to address the need for an increase in Truck Parking Bays? We do have to abide by fatigue management and have proper rest breaks so it’s very poor that we do not have enough truck bays to comply with the rules. It only takes a couple of road trains or oversize loads to fill a truck bay and when that happens it could mean many kilometres to the next rest area. Not a good look for trying to manage fatigue breaks. I’ve seen some drivers in frustration just parked on the edge of the road to get a sleep. What price do the authorities put on the lives of our truck drivers? From experience, to fix the problem takes lots of lobbying the authorities. The government is spending huge amounts on road works but there is never money put aside for transport drivers basic needs. Every truck driver is taught the value of safety especially on loading and unloading sites so it’s a shame that our facilities do not extend to our life on the highway. ~ Keep it safe, Ray Pratt.

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News

National Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship starting 2023

The Transport and Logistics Industry Reference Committee (IRC) is proposing a new Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship in response to industry’s call to professionalise the Heavy Vehicle Driver occupation. The apprenticeship will address driver shortages across Australia, create career pathways and ensure the safety of those working in the industry and all other road users and is expected to commence in 2023. The road transport industry plays a vital role in ensuring the safe, productive, and environmentally sound movement of goods and services throughout Australia. The attraction of new entrants and the retention of professional heavy vehicle operators is a critical strategy for the achievement of these goals – and the establishment of a national apprenticeship is considered to be long overdue. The common misconception is road transport operators simply ‘drive a truck’. In reality, they are a profession that is integral to the achievement of the Transport Industry’s broader environmental, economic and social (i.e., safety) obligations to the Australian community. In the wake of the COVID experience that has shone a light on the vital role played by road transport in supporting the Australian economy, the IRC believes that now is the time to create a national Heavy Vehicle Driver apprenticeship.

WATM • December 2021

Such a move is a necessary first step towards raising the profile of the professionalism of the Australian road transport driver workforce in line with the significance and vital standing of the industry

The creation of a national apprenticeship for heavy vehicle drivers constitutes the first significant step towards the professionalisation of the road transport industry in Australia

within the overall national economy. It is the belief that the creation of this apprenticeship will help mitigate some challenges, particularly in relation to the national heavy vehicle licensing system and the current utilisation of national traineeships. The IRC acknowledges these issues and that the establishment of an apprenticeship will not solve all the current workforce challenges facing the road transport industry. Rather, the creation of a national

apprenticeship for heavy vehicle drivers constitutes the first significant step towards the professionalisation of the road transport industry in Australia. School students and recent school leavers should be able to take up truck driving apprenticeships from early 2023, the Chair of the Australian Trucking Association, David Smith, said. Mr Smith was releasing the ATA’s response to an Australian Industry Standards proposal to introduce a two year truck driver apprenticeship. “There are great driving jobs available in our industry, but too many job seekers don’t know they exist or don’t know how to get the skills and contacts they need,” Mr Smith said. “A truck driver apprenticeship would enable apprentices to move around to different types of driving, as well providing supervision, coaching and mentoring to help them through their training. “The apprenticeship should be targeted at current school students (through school based training) and recent school leavers. The apprenticeship should be amended to include a forklift licence as a core unit, so apprentices can do meaningful work as soon as possible. “The apprenticeship could also be made relevant to people changing careers by including business skills electives. “The units in the apprenticeship should be subject to regular reviews as technology changes, and the qualification you get at the end should be renamed as a Certificate III in commercial heavy vehicle operations. “It won’t happen in livestock any time soon, but many of the people starting their driver apprenticeships in the coming years will spend most of their careers managing selfdriving vehicles, not driving them,” he said. Mr Smith said AIS should develop a project timeline that would see the first apprentices start their training within 18 months, from early 2023. “Over the years, we’ve seen so many proposals for improving truck driver training get bogged down without results. AIS needs to have a project plan to get us from here to the first apprentices starting on the job in 2023,” he said. “As part of this plan, the future supervisors of apprentice drivers should be able to access free, nationally recognised training in how to supervise apprentices.” To find out more information visit www. australianindustrystandards.org.au/heavyvehicle-driver-apprenticeship/

Main Roads News

Regional roadworks signage review

new Regional Roadworks Signage Committee has been established to work through the implementation of 13 recommendations made in the State Government’s recently released Regional Roadworks Signage Review Report. In late 2020, the Minister for Transport initiated Western Australia’s Regional Roadworks Signage Review to help enhance safety and improve road user experiences for the people driving through roadworks outside the Metropolitan Area. The review was undertaken by an independent industry-based Stakeholder Reference Group and considered what and how temporary traffic signage at roadworks sites is installed, secured and managed in regional areas. To inform the Review, the Australian Road Research Board (ARRB) undertook technical work which included reviewing legislation, operations and the use of traffic control signage, technology and innovation at work sites across WA. ARRB also looked at how WA compared to other States. ARRB’s scope included looking at existing

traffic management and signage standards, policies and practices. Feedback was also sought from the community through both the MySay Transport Platform and a number of regional community events, which provided the opportunity for local residents, drivers and transport operators to have their say and share their experiences with roadworks signage on the network. The final report was released in September this year, and in October the State Government accepted all 13 recommendations to improve safety at roadworks sites. The 13 recommendations will be implemented in three stages – short, medium and long term. Work on the first of the short term recommendations has commenced and includes improving driver education and awareness. A new roadworker safety education video has been launched to remind road users to be roadwork aware, slow down and take care. The video highlights the fact that roadworkers and traffic controllers are mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and mates – who deserve to do their job and go home safely

too. You can view the video by clicking on the QR code below. Other short term solutions will include improvements to the design of the temporary traffic signage at roadworks to ensure the signs remain upright and visible, and completing a review of tender documents to ensure traffic management elements are afforded the priority and focus required to ensure safe practice. To download a copy of the recommendations or report, visit www.mysaytransport.wa.gov. au/regional-roadworks-signage-review

REGIONAL ROADWORKS SIGNAGE REVIEW Recommendations R e p o rt August 2021

Prepared for: The Minister for Transport

Prepared by: The Regional Roadworks Signage Review Reference Group

WATM • December 2021

Over to you WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

ARE THE WHEELS FALLING OFF?

he Western Australian Transport and Logistics industry have been the unsung heroes of this pandemic. Despite bushfires, floods, lockdowns, chaotic border rules – WA businesses, industry and our community have been supplied. Public Recognition – well that’s in absolutely short supply. But as I write this, it has become patently clear that the wheels are now beginning to fall off, as a combination of factors all begin to bite.

Increasing Operating Costs for Transport So many members have said, “Our revenues have never been higher, but we are making nearly no profit because costs are blowing out.” Given the shortage of skilled labour (including Drivers) companies are now paying far more to attract and retain people. But other operating costs have risen too, such as: • Tyres – reported increases of 15 to 20% • Fuel – up 30% in the last year (noting not all have fuel levy’s in their contracts) 12

WATM • December 2021

• Spare Parts- combination of shortages and price rises • Service Cost – increases due to shortage of skilled labour • Non-Productive Costs – combinations of driver shortages and spare parts delays have meant some trucks parked up – meaning no money coming in – but payments still going out.

Freight Demand Up and So Are Prices Whilst some are in locked in contracts, others have been able to escalate rates to reflect the new market conditions. Its not uncommon, to hear of transport companies increasing freight rates in some segments by more than 20%. But even then, some of those who have managed to secure such increases say that costs are increasing even faster.

to or leave WA. Commendably, companies both in the East and here in WA are now actively seeking to protect their driver’s welfare by avoiding taking on work that requires them to leave WA or come to WA. With already over-stretched demand for road transport across the paddock, the loss of capacity due to withdrawal of services by some operators is going to hurt WA. In-conjunction with Tim Dawson from the TWU we have secured a meeting with the Deputy Chief Health Officer, Police and the Department to come up with better solutions for our cross-border drivers. I pay credit to Tim for securing that meeting. We need solutions that give confidence to the Health Department BUT also provide greater respect and freedoms to our drivers. Drivers have not only earnt that right, they deserve it.

Vaccinated drivers Companies Refusing Cross Border Work The draconian conditions imposed on truck drivers coming from the hard border closed areas of Vic and NSW have led to increasing numbers refusing to come

At the time of writing this, the Government deadline for vaccination of drivers is approaching. A number of drivers have chosen not to get vaccinated and as such companies are reporting a loss of drivers. Estimates on the actual numbers are

difficult but depending on the transport segment and location those choosing not to get vaccinated would be in the order of 5% to 10%. Even a number like that when we have such a chronic skills shortage of drivers hurts.

WA Bureaucracy’s Head in the Sand Approach to the Supply Chain Issues Freight is moved by Road, Rail, Sea and Air, all of which have major issues. Every mode has issues: • Road: just some of the issues are listed above, • Rail: shortage of train drivers and reports of on-going cross paddock constraints, • Shipping: well reported global shipping crisis • Air Freight: reported 80% reduction in air freight capacity These issues have helped drive up costs and delays for our members, industry, customers and community. WA State Development (JTSI) and WA Treasury both want information on how

this is impacting WA. EXCEPT, the WA Department of Transport. They have shown absolutely no interest. Despite sending briefs on the issue to them. Despite us and others having supply chain issues in the mainstream media nearly every other day. Despite reports of potential job losses in sectors like manufacturing, retail shortages at Christmas, even one claim of a potential risk to food supply, we have heard nothing, absolutely nothing. Nothing, from the very section who should have been calling for urgent meetings with industry to understand the issues and what can be done about it, so as to prepare briefs for the Minister on potential solutions. So, whilst the US President and Global leaders of the 20 biggest economies at recent G20 meeting have all identified supply chain issues as a major economic threat, in WA we cannot even get mid-level bureaucrats responsible for supply chain transport to answer emails.

Global leaders of the 20 biggest economies have all identified supply chain issues as a major economic threat, in WA we cannot even get mid-level bureaucrats responsible for supply chain transport to answer emails

So, are the wheels falling off? Well only you can answer that? But whilst I think they are, I also know our industry is full of incredibly smart and practical people. People who despite facing challenges that would dishearten mere mortals, the unsung heroes in our industry will always find a way to make it work.

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 or 0481 064 371 180 Hay St, East Perth WA 6004

WATM • December 2021

News

State Government response to Regional Roadworks Signage Review

s covered by Main Roads in this edition, the WA State Government has accepted 13 recommendations identified by the Regional Roadworks Signage Review to increase safety in roadworks sites. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti has asked Main Roads to implement a number of these recommendations to enhance safety for both construction workers and road users. While several of the recommendations are complex and will take time to implement, a number can be actioned in the short term, including: • improving driver education and awareness; • improvements to signage design to ensure they remain upright and visible; and • reviewing tender documentation to ensure traffic management elements are afforded the priority and focus required to ensure safe practice. Main Roads have appointed a senior project manager to oversee the process and also established an Implementation Committee, who will be meeting fortnightly in the first instance, with the inaugural meeting held earlier this month. A formal implementation plan with delivery targets will be developed with key stakeholders by the end of the year. The comprehensive review was undertaken by an industry-based stakeholder reference group, with extensive community consultation 14

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that looked at how temporary traffic signage at roadworks sites is installed, secured and managed in regional areas. Main Roads has been working closely with the Traffic Management Association of Australia in recent months to help raise public awareness of incidents on roadworks sites with a new campaign to be launched soon to encourage drivers to 'Be Roadwork Aware, Slow Down and Take Care.'

Personnel Change in Executive Officer Role at TRANSAFE WA

he TRANSAFE WA Committee of Management has announced the appointment of Rob Sharpe as Executive Officer. Effective 6th of September 2021, Rob stepped into the shoes of Ana Stachewicz who unfortunately has left the organsisation after a family road tragedy. Rob has a business development background and has also been working in the road transport industry for the past nine years. Rob's family also has strong connections to the road transport industry dating back to the early 1970's.

Minister Saffioti said, "I would like to again thank the stakeholder reference group and Chair Dennis O'Reilly who undertook this review. "The work undertaken by the reference group has helped focus attention on this key area of safety, so it is important we build on that momentum and continue to engage with industry and stakeholders to ensure safety at road construction sites.

Rail safety program for regions extended

rom late October, freight, transport and logistics workers must have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to enter Western Australia from 'high' or 'extreme' risk jurisdictions, based on the latest public health advice. Regional rail safety improvements, including potential safe level crossings, are being targeted by the Public Transport Authority. The program is identifying safety improvements on the Eastern Goldfields Railway between Perth and Kalgoorlie following a budget reallocation. A 12 month program to improve safety at four level crossings on the South West Main Line between Perth and Bunbury was completed in June. A railway pedestrian crossing was also added at Lakes Road in North Dandalup. The $2 million program in

conjunction with Main Roads converted passive level crossings to active crossings at Coronation Road and Logue Street in Waroona, Murray Street in Coolup and Riverdale Road in Cookernup. Passive level crossings are controlled only by signage, while active crossings feature warning bells, flashing lights and automatically operated boom gates. The measures significantly improve safety and help prevent accidental collisions and near misses where regional roads cross railway tracks. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti has approved surplus funding from the program for further safety works including a raised, safe access platform at Merredin Railway Station to help people with mobility difficulties, and an additional railway pedestrian crossing at Toodyay. Further safe level crossings are also being evaluated by the PTA in conjunction with Main Roads.

Focus

Jackie Moir – Celebrating 50 years at OD Transport Esperance

sperance local, Jackie Moir has dedicated herself to three things in her life. OD Transport, Esperance Basketball Association and the Esperance Netball Association. Jackie hates being the centre of attention and getting her photo taken and would rather work quietly in the background. However, at this 50 year anniversary milestone OD Transport was having none of that and want Jackie to know how much they appreciate her. Jackie started with OD Transport as work experience before starting full time on the 20th December 1971. She is the type of lady who works Saturday because she believes that someone should be in the office. She stays at the office until the last truck is back safely in the yard regardless of time and is regularly at the OD office until 10pm, unless she has basketball or netball. Jackie’s official Job title is Administration Clerk however she is so much more – she is the backbone of OD Transport and has seen the business expand to Albany and Perth, introducing livestock cartage before contracting back to concentrate on grain cartage for the Esperance region. The shareholders have come and gone, with the last of the original shareholders Barry Anderson retiring last year, yet Jackie has stayed. Through the good times and the bad, through drought, flood, fire to record grain harvest. Barry said, “Jackie spends more time here than at her own house and the business would have closed years ago if it was not for her. “She doesn’t realise how valuable she is to the company. Her wealth of knowledge and dedication deserves recognition,” he said. “Jackie is irreplaceable and the heart and soul of OD Transport Esperance” said Rick Martin, the Company Secretary/Accountant. “She hates attention and accolades however I think this is a great achievement. She started as a work experience student and never left. She works in admin however at times over the 50 years she has run the company single handed,” said Rick. General Manager of OD Transport (WA) Pty Ltd Craig King said, “What an achievement to work 50 years at one place which rarely happens this day and age. The way I see it, is that when you need to find something out go to Jackie, if she doesn’t know answer, she will find it for you. Jackie can do all aspects of everyone’s jobs in office, and people say that she’s the GM of OD transport not me.” A retired driver for OD Transport Garrie Barrett said of working with Jackie, “During harvest she would be in the office until 10 or 11 at night - until the last truck came in. There was not much communication back in the early days. She would pick drivers up and take them back to their cars, the yard and sometimes home. She would sort out any professional and personal problems that arose, liaising with farmers, drivers and CBH to find solutions.” Michael Cook Chairman – Board of Directors and Shareholder of OD Transport said, “There is no doubt that Jackie has made her presence in OD Transport over fifty years an invaluable one. “Hard work, loyalty and diligence are characteristics of the best employees. We are happy working with Jackie as she has

Jackie can do all aspects of everyone’s jobs in office, and people say that she’s the GM of OD transport not me all of these qualities. She has been an indispensable part of OD Transport’s journey and we are grateful for the dedication, passion and knowledge she gives us which has seen the successful growth of the Company. “Having an employee like Jackie is a matter of utmost pride and gratitude. Her dedication has set an example to everyone in our organization. Words are not enough to thank her for everything she has achieved for us. “The only way we can show a little of our admiration is by acknowledging Jackie as we observe her fifty year anniversary this year. We appreciate Jackie as she goes on to uphold our values and vision. We won’t ever stop appreciating her and we look forward to spending many more years working with Jackie,” Mr Cook finishes. WATM • December 2021

Over to you LRTAWA by David Fyfe, President, Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia (Inc)

Rural transport ‘front and centre’ at Brunswick Show

ats off to the Brunswick Agricultural Society for putting rural transport ‘front and centre’ of their 90th anniversary show this year. It probably helped that one of the Livestock and Rural Transport Association’s long time committee members Mark Talbot is also President of the Brunswick Agricultural Society and his passion for rural transport is boundless. The show returned in fine form after a last minute cancellation in 2020 due to Covid-19. Under the theme of Celebrating Rural Transport the display of agricultural and transport equipment through the years from a horse and cart onwards, visually depicted the change and innovation in the transport industry. It was also an excellent opportunity to showcase careers in transport. The LRTAWA

WATM • December 2021

booth had streams of people moving through during the day and we were able to have many conversations with interested people, but particularly the very young. Muscle Mite as always was a beacon for big and little children. Hopefully we sowed a couple of seeds of interest in some young minds that transport is a great career. It was a reminder about how important it is to constantly be talking about the industry and sharing insights whenever the chance arises. Whilst the industry is working hard to attract people and encourage careers, transport is facing a few headwinds. Our costs are rising. The price of fuel has skyrocketed almost overnight, the cost of spare parts has increased and that supposes you can actually obtain parts and equipment. The competition for drivers is seeing wages increase.

Inevitably these costs must be passed on, so it is probably time for transporters to reassess their rates to recoup some of these increasing costs. Rising costs are only one challenge ahead. Navigating the uncertainty of the WA Government vaccine mandate is creating headaches for employers and contractors. Whilst I’ll stop short of making comments about the merits or otherwise of the announcement, I am concerned that employers have been placed in a difficult position. They are at the frontline of implementing the policy which was announced on 20th October. At the time of writing this article on the 11th November we still had not seen the formal directions to give effect to the announcement notwithstanding the deadline for the vaccination one for the group of people in

Muscle Mite at Brunswick Show

Inevitably these costs must be passed on, so it is probably time for transporters to reassess their rates to recoup some of these increasing costs

phase one is only a few weeks away. The result of this is that employment decisions are being made on very little supporting information and employers are potentially being exposed. What protections exist for them if they terminate or stand down an employee because they have not been vaccinated. Employers also need clarification under both state and federal laws about what is ‘lawful and reasonable’ in these current circumstances. Do the majority of employers know the appropriate process for altering the conditions of employment during the life of a contract and to what extent does the State of Emergency Declaration override other workplace laws and obligations including federal laws e.g. The Privacy Act which applies to employers with an annual turnover of $3m or more and a few other

select employers? Clear directions from the Government on these issues would give employers greater confidence when implementing these rules. If these few things were not enough, I’m left scratching my head about the latest fatigue proposal from the National Transport Commission. The review of the National Heavy Vehicle Law began in 2018 and recently made recommendations for change. Among those recommendations was a proposal to modify the general schedule relating to fatigue which is reproduced on these pages in case you haven’t seen it. This suggestion has been roundly rejected by most of industry and it is to be hoped it isn’t accepted by government. The loss of driving hours would have

a disastrous impact on productivity, the income of many drivers, return on capital investment and make some journeys unviable. It is another good reason for WA to defend its fatigue system, a position the LRTAWA has strongly held for some time. Lastly, we desperately need the road train assembly area in Kewdale to be expanded. The freight task is growing and this area isn’t big enough to accommodate the number of vehicles that want to use it. The problem as we all know is made worse by a small group who abuse the purpose of the area and use it as free depot. Despite many requests to have the area policed more closely, it seems to be one of those issues that government can’t find a solution to. We’ll keep trying on that one, but in the mean time we need more space. WATM • December 2021

News

New insights revealed about supply chain labour shortages

he world’s supply chains are undergoing massive transformation at an unprecedented pace, driven by an increasingly volatile geopolitical situation, an explosion in new technologies and an increased focus on ethical and sustainable practices. Recent research undertaken by Deakin University’s Centre for Supply Chain and Logistics and Wayfinder: Supply Chain Careers for Women, an industry sponsored initiative which aims to create a diverse talent pipeline for the sector, explored the issue from the perspective of company executives and senior government officials. Dr Hermione Parsons, Director CSCL and Dr Roberto Perez-Franco Senior Research Fellow, interviewed 21 senior executives from Australia’s industry and government about ongoing challenges and the impact of recent events on the ability to recruit and retain the workforce required for today’s supply chain sector. “Add the disruption to global supply chains because of the COVID-19 pandemic and you have the perfect storm,” said Dr Parsons. An increase in e-commerce and closed borders may have exacerbated it, but the problem was already there. Furthermore, supply chain shortages are not just for products or freight transport, but also for people, and the problem is far more complex than a shortage of truck drivers.” Michael Byrne, Chair of Centre for Supply Chain and Logistics Industry Advisory Board and Australia’s International Freight Controller General said; “This is important research, the biggest risk areas for most companies in maintaining their business competitiveness are not decisions about whether to automate or what digital systems to use, but how to attract and retain the workforce they need.”

WATM • December 2021

The researchers identified four challenges to recruiting in supply chain: poor industry image, education gaps in the candidates they interviewed, poaching of staff between industries and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The biggest skills gaps were in truck driving, robotics, and data analytics. “Perceptions may be shifting, but traditionally supply chain has been a ‘Cinderella sector’ and often invisible”, said lead researcher and co-chair of Wayfinder, Dr Hermione Parsons. “If graduates are aware of the sector at all, they see it in terms of dirty warehouses and hi-vis vests, and most ‘fall into it’ rather than actively pursue a career in supply chain.” “Many of our participants identified a shortage of talent in data analytics,” said

fellow researcher Dr Perez-Franco. “The issue they identified is more complex than the mere challenge of attracting graduates with data analytics qualifications. “The ability to understand and trust data can be just as important as the decisions about what to do with it. The greatest capacity gap is in the combination of operational supply chain knowledge and data analytics.” The research highlighted the degree to which the modern supply chain workforce must learn new skills and constantly adapt to new ways of doing things. There is an expectation they will be tech-savvy and comfortable operating in a more automated, digitally enabled environment and it’s a challenge that not all are prepared for. “It will be critical to sell the next generation of supply chain workers on challenges and opportunities of a supply chain career,” said Dr Parsons. “As well as the salary, millennials are looking for career paths that are both rewarding and flexible. Although flexibility will always be difficult in a sector that operates 24/7, it is increasingly possible in technology-driven areas where there is a capacity shortage. One of the most significant workforce trends during the pandemic has been the move to remote work, and while people will return to their offices, attitudes to working from home have changed.” “A number of those we spoke to, acknowledged there were difficulties in attracting women to the sector, but they also acknowledged there were shifts in the right direction. The need to employ more women in operational roles was seen as key to improving levels of diversity,” said Dr Parsons.

New Aboriginal employment targets for transport infrastructure program

he McGowan Government has announced new business and employment targets for Aboriginal people on the State's major transport infrastructure program and over the next five years is aiming to award $700 million of contracts to Aboriginal businesses, as well as having 3.5 million work hours completed by Aboriginal workers. A Meet the Buyer and Supplier Forum will be held today - with up to 300 attendees expected to attend - to connect Aboriginal businesses with road and rail construction and maintenance contractors, and explore upcoming opportunities. The new targets will apply from now until June 2026 to projects delivered by the Department of Transport, Main Roads

and Public Transport Authority, including METRONET projects. In the past financial year alone, more than $80 million worth of services were undertaken by Aboriginal businesses on Main Roads and METRONET infrastructure projects, including the interior fit-out of the METRONET Bellevue Railcar Facility. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "We have an unprecedented program of transport infrastructure works underway all across Western Australia - with projects in Kununurra to the north and Esperance to the south, plus METRONET projects in all four corners of Perth, there's no shortage of opportunities for Aboriginal businesses and people to get involved.

News

Help for trucking operators

NTC release proposal to amend standard work hours

new database is set to help trucking operators improve their operations and save on costs. The Australian Government launched the Supply Chain Benchmarking Dashboard recently, developed with the CSIRO. The dashboard is part of the Australian Government’s National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy. The dashboard covers 130 commodities using data gathering from road and rail trips over the last five years. It includes: • Freight task costs and value, including cost per payload tonne or kilometre;

• Travel distances and durations; and • Supply chain movements between businesses. The dashboard was designed to give industry a clear understanding of Australia’s supply chain performance, as well as insight into how to drive improvements and reduce costs. The data will help inform planning decisions to ensure the transport sector remains a safe, productive, and profitable. To access the Dashboard visit www. freightaustralia.gov.au/a-closer-look/ international-supply-chain-benchmarking

New monitoring technology

he NHVR has welcomed a partnership with SenSen to deliver rapid deployable AI solutions using vehicle mounted cameras, a drone and solar powered trailers. NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the contract was the next step into delivering new and innovative ways to make Australian roads safer for everyone. “It’s timely and important that we use innovative thinking to make our roads safer,” Mr Petroccitto said. “We’ve now taken the next step to trial mobile camera technology, across the NHVR’s Southern Operations region – including South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria. “These cameras will assist the NHVR’s officers in a risk-based approach to safety – ensuring our officers are targeting the biggest road safety risks.

We’ve now taken the next step to trial mobile camera technology, across the NHVR’s Southern Operations region

“On the flip side, smarter camera technology will also help in identifying operators who are doing the right thing, who can then expect to be less regularly intercepted by the NHVR. “Having the best, most up-to-date information, including information gathered through cameras, helps us to make better decisions about law reform, safety and productivity programs that will make our roads safer for everyone.”

he National Transport Commission (NTC) has released a discussion paper that outlines options to align standard work hours with scientific research. The paper arises from the recent review of the HVNL. Industry bodies including the ATA have come out slamming the paper with ATA Chair David Smith stating that despite ministers' commitment to simplify the HVNL and focus on productivity and safety, the NTC's highest consultation priority with industry seems to be the operational details of fatigue management. "The NTC's proposal for the fatigue management general schedule would reduce the income of a typical local delivery driver by about $24,000 per year," Mr Smith said. Scientific evidence suggests that standard hours should not exceed 12 hours on-duty and international studies found some aspects of driving performance deteriorated after 8-9 hours driving. This paper asks industry their views on whether standard work hours should be reduced, and rest hours increased to better manage fatigue in heavy vehicle drivers and whether the revised structure is practical and feasible. Key points of the paper are: • Reduce maximum working hours from 72 hours to 60 hours in a 7-day period • Minimum 8 hours rest break (currently 7 hours) • Maximum 4 hours continuous work before taking a rest (currently 5.25 hours) • Cease driving 14 hours after the end of a sleep break (even if the maximum hours worked in 24 hours has not been used) • Provide flexibility to operators to assist in managing unscheduled/unforeseen events.

WATM • December 2021

News

Review Into National Heavy Vehicle Law An Epic Failure

After three years of consultations, meetings and communiques, the National Transport Commission has failed in its attempt to deliver an effective and meaningful review of the National Heavy Vehicle Law”, says WA Labor Senator Glenn Sterle. “The review began in November 2018 and was intended to produce outcomes that would improve safety and productivity. “However, all it has done since then is produce summaries of findings, regulatory impact statements and reports to Transport Ministers which have gone nowhere. In fact, recently the National Transport Commission gave representatives from the road transport industry a week’s notice to participate in a half-baked workshop to consider their proposed changes to fatigue management. “The proposed changes would see fatigue standard hours cut by 22 hours a week which would reduce the wages of truck drivers and drive transport companies to the wall,” said Senator Sterle. “In one example, the NTC’s proposed ‘General Schedule’ would reduce the income of a typical local delivery driver by about $24,000 per year. I shudder to think how much this would reduce the wages of an interstate driver. “At a time where we are already seeing the road transport industry having the living daylights squeezed out of it by those at the top of the supply chain, sham contracting on the rise and wage theft rampant, the failure of the NTC to deliver anything constructive since 2018 is a slap in the face to Australia’s essential truck drivers and transport companies. “Rather than attempting to cut the 20

WATM • December 2021

wages of hard-working truck drivers and completely crushing any hope of sustainability for our transport companies, the Federal Government and the NTC need to ‘bin’ this review and respond seriously to the recommendations of the recent Senate report into the importance of a viable, safe, sustainable and efficient road transport industry. On the same subject, the ATA is consulting its members urgently about its future engagement with the Heavy Vehicle National Law review process, said ATA Chair David Smith. “The review started in November 2018. The ATA and its members have spent hundreds of hours drafting submissions and engaging in meetings. But the review has not produced a single legislative amendment that could be introduced into parliament,” Mr Smith said. “Despite ministers’ commitment to simplify the HVNL and focus on productivity and safety, the NTC’s highest consultation priority with industry seems to be the operational details of fatigue management. “The NTC’s proposal for the fatigue management general schedule would reduce the income of a typical local delivery driver by about $24,000 per year. It would make it impossible for general schedule drivers to operate between capital cities. “Despite the catastrophic impact of the proposal on the industry’s productivity and the incomes of its workers, the NTC circulated this proposal for just one week of industry consultation. “It is not good enough. The review has failed.”

CHANGES PROPOSED TO ANIMAL CRUELTY LAWS

or those working in NSW, be aware that the Animal Justice Party is seeking to rewrite the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (POCTAA). The party is proposing to include the introduction of the Animal Rights agenda as a definition of what cruelty means. The proposed changes introduce the 5 Freedoms of Animals, change the definition of cruelty to now be the overarching concept of Harm, and also include psychological suffering as a form of animal cruelty. These changes could make any interaction with any animal fall within the scope of POCTAA. The changes could mean that if you push cattle up a race or yell at your dog someone could claim that this psychological harm and the practice could be stopped. This is outrageous.

Hall of Fame

GAVIN VAUGHAN

avin John Vaughan was born in Geraldton, Western Australia, in 1964. Leaving school at 15, Gavin had his first taste of the transport industry when he accompanied his dad, Ross, running general freight from Perth to Darwin, Northern Territory. However, his father wanted him to have a trade, so Gavin commenced a four-year apprenticeship as a Vehicle Body Builder/First Class Welder at Northwest Engineering. In the Christmas holidays, Gavin did two trips with his father to Darwin and it was there that he obtained his MC Licence. In 1979, Gavin completed his apprenticeship and started working as a fulltime driver for his father at Vaughan Transport, pulling trailers to Carnarvon, Western Australia, in a G89 Volvo. Gavin then purchased his first truck, an F86 Volvo, 6x4 tipper and tri-axle trailer to cart grain around Geraldton. After two years of being an Owner Driver, he went back to driving for Vaughan Transport until 1993. In that year, Gavin purchased a T900 from Titan Haulage in Adelaide. He then became a subcontractor for Gascoyne Trading, then Wesfarmers, carting refrigerated and general freight to Broome, Western Australia every Friday night.

In 2001, Gavin was able to buy his first brand new truck, a Kenworth T904 which he drove for another two years on the Broome run until he was offered subcontracting work with BGC Cement, pulling cement tankers. This led him to sell his T904 and purchase a Kenworth K104 8x4. He worked as a subby at Buckeridge Group

of Companies for four years at which time he was asked to take over the reins of the family business, Vaughan Transport. Gavin is still running Vaughan Transport in Midvale, Western Australia, thankful for the great team that he has around him. He is grateful for the opportunity to practice his trade, fabricating transport equipment, and still gets to take trucks out for a trip.

In 2001, Gavin was able to buy his first brand new truck, a Kenworth T904 which he drove for another two years on the Broome run

WATM • December 2021

Over to you

YORK MOTOR SHOW The Ford Mainline Ute is one of my favourites I have photographed it before, it still looks like it is being used for some work and not too highly polished

Mack Valueliners getting ready for the next Mack Muster and truck show in 2022 Down by the river HCVC Members sitting in the sunshine enjoying the day, Nelson Palmer, Rod Boyd and Phil Taylor

This purple Chev “DEDSLED” looked different with copper trim instead of chrome

t was a busy weekend for motor enthusiasts in WA with both the York Motor Show and the Bindoon Historical Vehicle Day being held at the same time. The HCVC also made it extra difficult to choose as thrown into the mix was also a run to Jurien Bay and Bunnawarra. As it turned out, I think HCVC had participants at all three locations. York is a great looking town and its main street and park by the river serve as a fabulous backdrop for vehicles – giving that bit of extra flair. York is also a nice place to have a look around and enjoy a cup of coffee and some lunch. On display was a good mix of old cars and commercial vehicles, motor bikes, classic speedway and working model trucks.

WATM • December 2021

The Austin A40 pick-up was bought new by Kim Byett’s grandfather then sold outside the family. It was then repurchased in 1975 and kept in storage. It started its transformation to a Street Rod in 2017 and was completed in 2021

Bedford with a rural theme

Big fins come out for the day

This image and below: Ryan Demasi had the Hulk and International on display

(l) Working model trucks (below) nternational and Bedford

The VW Kombi camper had Snail on the number plate (house on its back) and it looked like there could have been some wind resistance issues on a windy day

The Bus Preservation Society were there taking passengers around town

(above) Classic Speedway (right) Unrestored 1923 Dodge Brothers pick up

WATM • December 2021

History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon

1980

A TWU strike for wage increases came about during protracted negotiations. By July it was over and the TWU had extracted a wage increase of $20 per week and a 10 percent increase in allowances included in Parts 1 and 2 of the Wage Schedule, retrospective to July 29, 1981 and subject to inclusion in the Transport Workers’ Award, 1972. The Association gained some excellent interest rates with its investments, gaining 15.75 percent on a first mortgage basis for $30,000; $18,000 on a short-term basis at 13.25 percent; and the balance on call at the ANZ Bank at 10 percent. R H North resigned as a trustee of the Association after serving at various levels since 1942. He was farewelled at a special function on September 22. At the October 14 meeting of the Executive Council it was he Australian Bus and Coach Association was formed, decided to chronicle the history of the road transport industry in replacing the Passenger Division of the ARTF. WA with a list of likely people to assist be drawn up, a writer or The Executive Council advised the State Government historian commissioned to undertake the project; costs be funded that for various reasons, the Association would not support the by individual companies and the sale of the book; and contacts proposal to introduce State legislation for the purpose of defining could be made to establish the best means of commencing the the carriers’ liability in the cases of loss or damage to goods. Issues project. At the November 4 meeting, it was suggested that the earlier raised included the probability proposal be referred to the Department of that insurance premiums would be The funding of the Upper Swan Road History, University of WA, for the purpose raised; carriers would be forced to Train Assembly Area operating costs of ensuring that a professional historian accept liability without any means of be obtained to undertake the work. At the was decided by the Association to recouping the costs; under current December 2 meeting it was reported that favour the proposal of 5 cents per no success in obtaining a person had been proposals there would be no uniformity; tonne to be added to permit fees and reached and that a press advertisement experience in Queensland by one for trailer licences to North-West company appears to favour the proposal; would be placed to find a suitable person. the Trade Practices Act had influenced The funding of the road train assembly centres to be $40-$50 per annum previous opinions on this subject. area operating costs in Upper Swan was An eight-day strike by R C Sadleir employees at Kewdale decided by the Association to favour the proposal of 5 cents per occurred as a result of the company refusing to meet a TWU claim tonne to be added to permit fees and for trailer licences to Northfor service pay. Employees decided that sub-contractors and casual West centres to be $40-$50 per annum. staff should also qualify for the service pay. Efforts were being made to re-establish the WA Road Transport The average number of children carried on each school day by Industry Training Committee and WARTA was attending meetings. bus totalled 25,191 with an average daily run of 87,777km. There It came to fruition in early 1982. were 757 bus contracts and 26 minor contracts in operation for an The Australian Road Transport Federation conference was annual cost of $12,292,813. The average cost per child was $487.98. staged in Perth on September 28 until October 2. The increase in five years was nearly $200 per child. The Furniture Removers’ Division staged its Christmas function at the Ascot Inn Hotel, Belmont on December 4 or 5. The Association backed the move for daylight saving. This was Quarterly general meetings were not being attended enough for despite a possible objection from school bus operators. a quorum so it was decided at the May 27, 1981 meeting that a The Parcels and Light Delivery Division was asked by the recommendation go to the Annual General Meeting that quarterly Executive Council to arrange a meeting of dissatisfied parcel meetings be abandoned and that special meetings be called as and and courier operators with the intent of renaming the division to when required. Parcels, Taxi Truck and Courier Division.

1981

WATM • December 2021

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WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - DECEMBER 2021 EDITION

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HCVC

WA Transport History

New insights revealed about supply chain labour shortages

Hall of Fame – Gavin Vaughan

Review into National Heavy Vehicle Law an epic failure

NTC release proposal to amend standard working hours

LRTAWA – Rural transport ‘front and centre’ at Brunswick Show

National Heavy Vehicle Driver Apprenticeship to start 2023

Insurance exemption to help industry

Questions to the State Government

Rail safety program for regions extended

Jackie Moir – Celebrating 50 years at OD Transport Esperance

Western Roads Federation – Are the wheels falling off?

The unexpected story behind the Logmaster app and why you will never want to be without it

Regional Roadworks Signage Review