DECEMBER 2019 EDITION OF WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE

THE TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY MAGAZINE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA

ISSN 2202-6193

100007516 December 2019 | price $6.95

TRANSPORT magazine

Page 2

WA'S TRAILBLAZING TRUCKIE GLEN KENDALL INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME Outback Trucker Glen ‘Yogi’ Kendall has been officially recognised as a “bit of a legend” for his long-standing commitment to the transport industry and was one of the key winners in National Transport Insurance’s (NTI) Faces of Transport Competition, where he was honoured as a Hall of Fame recipient IN THIS ISSUE:

WA drivers slowing down Glenn Sterle – Diesel in his veins Trailer tarpaulin cover mechanism fracture Dedicated course in truck driver training WATM • December 2019

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f there is one thing that boils our members’ blood, it’s the horrendous scamming of the temporary VISA system in the transport industry.

This kind of scamming is eroding our industry from the inside out.

There are some companies taking advantage of vulnerable temporary migrants and putting them behind the wheel of trucks and sending them out on our roads.

All in the name of saving a few dollars and at the same time ripping them off.

It’s plain and simple exploitation of people and the rorting of a system that only benefits the shonky operators taking short cuts.

This exploitation is putting a squeeze on the supply chain that puts decent, hardworking operators out of business.

According to a 2019 report by the Grattan Institute the increased migration of “low-skill” workers could be contributing to poor pay growth.

The paper reports that currently there are around 1 million temporary migrants in Australia, of these 450,000 are on student VISAs and another 150,000 are on working holiday VISAs. According to ABS Census data there are 1,216 people on student VISAs working as truck drivers, 2,659 people on student VISAs work in the Road Transport Industry, of whom 1,059 people were working in Road Freight Transport and 1,597 in Road Passenger Transport (including urban and rural bus driving and taxis).

You can hardly blame these people for coming to our country and wanting to

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When companies cut corners, everyone suffers

By Tim Dawson | Branch Secretary

better themselves through study.

Our gripe pertains to undervaluing the transport industry. Undervaluing the work of skilled and professional drivers. Which only leads to a low-skilled, low income work force.

And companies taking advantage of a deficient migration system for their own bottom line.

It’s not just the transport industry where companies are cutting corners to hire a low-skilled, migrant workforce.

Construction, community services and retail industries, just to name a few, are not exempt from this exploitation.

In many cases these migrants go on to become underpaid workers at your 7Eleven, Caltex and Dominos. Companies that have all been exposed for systemic and horrific wage theft.

In the transport industry, a seething underbelly of cost cutting leads to rates

There are some companies taking advantage of vulnerable temporary migrants and putting them behind the wheel of trucks and sending them out on our roads

being driven through the floor. And a supply chain that is geared to put operators who do the right thing out of business.

All supported by the Federal Government.

Who could ever forget the two truck drivers on temporary VISAs who caused chaos on the M5 Freeway in Sydney in 2016?

When their truck was too high to enter the Mascot Airport Tunnel, the driver had tried to edge the vehicle back from the tunnel entrance, and had huge difficulties manoeuvring the B-Double out of the traffic lane and partly jack-knifed it.

It was since revealed that both men were on temporary student visas.

This was 3 years ago and gained significant public attention.

What has changed since?

We want the Federal Government to regulate this, so companies who put vulnerable migrants on the temporary VISA system on our roads are held accountable.

We need companies to train their drivers to a standard and competency.

We need to improve training and the entry level into driving.

By raising the competencies of people coming into the industry. Raising safety levels and making sure they know the basics of what it is to be a truck driver before they begin to get a license through an apprenticeship program or something similar.

And for companies to pay transport workers the correct rates. Same job, same rate.

Because when companies cut corners, everyone suffers.

PROTECT YOURSELF & JOIN the TRANSPORT WORKERS UNION

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The workplace representative for people who make a living working in transport

e: info@twuwa.org.au | Ph: 1800 657 477 | Web: www.twuwa.org.au | F: www.facebook.com/twuwa

Government of Western Australia

Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety

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WATM • December 2019

WATM • May 2019 @DMIRS_WA

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Profile

WA’S TRAILBLAZING TRUCKIE GLEN KENDALL INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME Outback Trucker Glen ‘Yogi’ Kendall has been officially recognised as a “bit of a legend” for his longstanding commitment to the transport industry.

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WATM • December 2019

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r Kendall was one of the key winners in National Transport Insurance’s (NTI) Faces of Transport Competition, where he was honoured as a Hall of Fame recipient.

The Western Australian owner-driver of Kendall Trucking & Co., who starred in The Discovery Channel’s Outback Truckers, now live-streams his hilarious stories about ‘life on the road’ to his 60 thousand Facebook followers – direct from his big rig.

Affectionately nicknamed “Yogi” (mainly because he looks like a big bear!) he has now become an internet sensation and a mouthpiece for the next generation of truckers.

Mr Kendall says he’s thrilled his newfound fame allows him to support and inspire the entire transport industry.

“All of a sudden I had a platform to use the opportunity to have a voice and advocate for the transport industry,” Mr Kendall said.

With his experience in the industry spanning decades, he says he believes his nature of “just being normal” was the key to growing his fan base.

“They (truckies) want to see normality and I reckon I’m a hundred percent normal.

So, I think they can see a bit of themselves in me and that’s why they are happy to follow me on the internet and watch me on the tele,” Mr Kendall said.

The third-generation truck driver says he ‘eats, sleeps and breathes trucks’ and has done so since he was 21-years-old.

“I learned everything I know from my old man. He got up at 3:30am for 21 years.

With his experience in the industry spanning decades, he says he believes his nature of “just being normal” was the key to growing his fan base

Right through my teenage years, I got up with him, any chance I could, to get on the truck,” he said.

NTI CEO, Tony Clark, says the Faces of Transport Competition shines a spotlight on hard-working individuals who make the transport industry the success it is today.

“This year we received more than two thousand nominations, with members of the industry putting forward their friends, colleagues, and loved ones to be one of the four Faces of Transport,” he said.

“NTI is proud to recognise these hard workers because we are passionate about this industry and appreciate the people who strive to make our roads safer and better every single day.”

NTI’s Faces of Transport Competition is all about recognising the everyday people who keep transport going strong, from family, mates, employers and fleet managers to the repair crews, and service and depot staff.

“We’re invested in the transport and logistics industry at a ground roots level

and our 2019 Faces of Transport winners represent hard-working individuals who make their mark on the industry through commitment, professionalism and exemplary services,” Mr Clark said.

Glen Kendall and his wife Amanda started their own trucking business seven years ago and say they want to stay true to their strong work ethic and pass that value onto their children.

“We are both hard workers and dedicated to the job and I know that work ethic is something that both my daughter and son will have when it comes time for them to enter the workforce,” he said.

“I absolutely love the job. I love the industry.”

He believes the industry needs more people who keep it real and stay genuine – especially for the younger generations.

“One of the biggest problems we currently have in the industry is we have these big burly truck drivers who think they need to put on a front and I think that is something that has to change. We need to be more real.”

National Transport Insurance has built a loyal base of customers and stakeholders over its 45 years’ experience in the transport and logistics insurance industry, growing to become Australia’s leading specialist insurer.

The company prides itself on excellence

and innovation in delivery, claims, internal expertise and customer service.

As well as celebrating real people with real stories, the Faces of Transport Competition also gives the winners a chance to voice their real-world experiences and make positive changes to the trucking industry.

Glen Kendall says he wants better quality control for entry-level truck drivers.

“I would like to see more than just something saying they have completed a half- day course,” he said.

“I mean anyone these days can pay their money and get a truck license but that doesn’t mean they have the confidence behind the wheel they need.”

Other winners of the National Transport Insurance Faces of Transport Competition include Queenslanders Jonathon Lowien, who won Best on Ground and Georgia Easton who was recognised as Best Industry Representative, Tasmania’s Kerri Connors was recognised as the All Rounder/ Hall of Fame winner.

The four winners shared in 30 thousand dollars’ worth of prizes, including 4 Gold Coast 600 Supercar experiences plus $10,000 worth of vouchers.

NTI says the Faces of Transport Competition will be back in 2020 with more inspiring stories from the industry.

YOGI -7: Glen Kendall and his wife Amanda

WATM • December 2019

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WA

TRANSPORT

magazine

VOLUME 25 | 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: 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.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Angry Chicken Head Office T: 0430 153 273 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au DESIGN / PREPRESS Cally Browning | Bare Creative

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t seems to me as you get older time speeds up. I have no idea how it could possibly be Christmas now. But in saying so, I wish all WA Transport Magazine readers, advertisers and contributors a very merry Christmas and all the best for 2020.

When I look back on this year – it was a year of change for the magazine. For years, I fought off putting the magazine on a digital platform. I am a bit of a technology dinosaur and the thought of contacting thousands of readers to obtain email addresses, learning ‘how’ to publish digitally and actually doing it was a bit daunting. However, after nine months I can say it has been successful and has opened my eyes that there are many people who are open to reading the magazine in

ACCOUNTS T: 08 9296 4488 E: accounts@angrychicken.com.au

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.

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WATM WATM •• December December 2019 2019

Karen

CONTENTS

PRINTER Daniels Printing Craftsmen SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions available directly from the Publisher.

T: 08 9296 4488 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au Australia: 1 year $65.95 (inc GST) 2 years $127.55 (inc GST)

this format. In fact, within nine months the digital subscribers to WA Transport magazine sits at 2000 – with a large proponent of ‘new’ readers.

This does not mean that the magazine will not ‘also’ continue in its printed and posted format as I am one of the people who likes to hold what I am reading but in all honesty Australia Post have made it crippling for publishers to post magazines in Australia so having the digital platform as well was born out of necessity.

Onwards and upwards to 2020 and thank you again to everyone who supports the magazine.

Best,

2............................................... WA’s trailblazing truckie Glen Kendall inducted into Hall of Fame 6............................................... Upgrade works begin on Great Eastern Highway 7................................................ NTC seeks feedback 8............................................... New research shows WA drivers are slowing down 11............................................... Major milestone for Mitchell Freeway extension 12............................................ Construction starts of new Manning on-ramp 13............................................ Dangerous Goods – Trailer tarpaulin cover mechanism fracture – fatal accident 14............................................ Western Roads Federation – Major changes forecast for WA transport training 16............................................ One in 10 compliant 18............................................ How do I know what Permit I need?

19............................................ Further resource potential for Pilbara 22.......................................... New brother on the way for Rexx

Every Month 9............................................... Questions to Minister 10............................................ A Fair Go for Owner Drivers 17............................................. Bird’s Eye View 20.......................................... HCVC 22.......................................... The Lone Wolf 23.......................................... WA Transport History 24.......................................... Model Trucks

Endorsed by

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www.khitch.com.au WATM • December 2019

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News

Upgrade works start on Great Eastern Highway between Walgoolan and Southern Cross

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orks started late October on further upgrades to Great Eastern Highway between Walgoolan and Southern Cross in the eastern Wheatbelt.

The $7.8 million project will focus on improving an ageing 11 kilometre section with a new passing lane, shoulder widening and safety improvements.

Funding for the project has been provided through the State's Road Trauma Trust Account, which uses revenue from red light and speed camera operations in Western Australia.

This Great Eastern Highway project follows other recent upgrade works in the area, including 55 kilometres of shoulder reconditioning, sealing narrow sections and audible edge line installation between Walgoolan and Southern Cross.

Another recent project realigned 3.2 kilometres of Great Eastern Highway through Carrabin at a cost of $3.7 million.

Main Roads Western Australia has identified about $200 million in critical improvement works to enhance safety and freight efficiency on Great Eastern Highway - a program that would generate about 1,000 direct and indirect jobs.

The State Government is negotiating with the Federal Government for additional funding to carry out further upgrades and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "Having travelled this road and met with the local shires recently, I know these further highway upgrades will make a difference to road safety for industry and commuters going through the area.

"Great Eastern Highway is an important transport link to the Eastern States, and this works package will improve road safety and freight efficiency as well as reduce road maintenance costs.

"Between 1,200 and 1,800 vehicles use this road per day, of which 40 per cent are heavy vehicles."

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Multi-language sign trial to help boost safety on key tourism routes

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ew multilingual advisory signs are A number of other tourist routes have being rolled out on some Western been selected for the trial due to the Australian roads as part of a trial to help increased incidence of an international driver international drivers safely navigate the being involved in a serious crash, including State's most popular tourism routes.

Minilya-Exmouth Road, NorthamptonThe trial involves the installation of Kalbarri Road and Burkett Road. signs with symbolic 'keep left' arrows, and Investigation and planning is currently 'keep left' spelt in German, French and underway to assess the suitability and cost Simplified Mandarin. of extending the trial to Directional arrows Brookton Highway and will also be painted Caves Road.

Directional arrows intermittently on The first stage of the will also be painted the road surface to project commenced intermittently on the road in October, with remind drivers to keep surface to remind drivers pavement markings left when driving in to keep left when driving already installed on Australia. in Australia It is modelled on Indian Ocean Drive and signs used on interstate signage installation to tourism routes such be completed by midas Great Ocean Road and follows several December head-on crashes in recent years involving Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, international drivers.

"This is a low-cost trial adopted from Analysis of crash data from 2014 to 2018 overseas jurisdictions, which will help showed that international drivers were international drivers safely travel to some 35 per cent more likely to be involved in of WA's great destinations. head-on crashes, particularly drivers with a "Head-on crashes invariably have a licence issued from a country that drives on devastating effect, so any measure to the right hand side of the road. address the issue is worth trialling.

Indian Ocean Drive - which connects "Given international holiday visitors WA's coastal tourism hotspots of Lancelin, in 2018-19 were the highest on record Cervantes, Jurien Bay and Dongara - will be for WA, we want to ensure we are doing the first road to receive the signage. everything possible to keep motorists safe.

The trial coincides with recently started "$13.5 million of safety improvements widening works to a 10 kilometre section of were completed on Indian Ocean Drive Indian Ocean Drive to accommodate wide in 2018 and a further $15.5 million have centre line treatments between Wilbinga either been completed this year or about Grove and Moore River. to start."

News

NTC seeks feedback on a national approach to the safe and legal use of personal mobility devices

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he National Transport Commission (NTC) has released a consultation paper seeking feedback on options to safely integrate personal mobility devices into existing Australian road rules.

Personal mobility devices, such as electric skateboards and scooters, are emerging forms of transport and current road rules have not kept pace with these changes.

NTC Executive Leader, Safety, Mandi Mees said people are becoming less dependent on traditional forms of transport in favour of innovative devices

that move people more efficiently around cities and communities. These new devices largely operate in an undefined regulatory environment.

“The Australian Road Rules predate most newer technologies which means they are not recognised under current legislation. At present, the rules only provide for the use of low-powered motorised scooters that have a maximum speed of 10km/h”.

The NTC is seeking feedback from a wide range of stakeholders on regulatory options that can provide a nationallyconsistent approach to the safe and legal use of these devices.

Consultation closes on 13 December 2019.

The NTC will deliver recommendations for ministerial approval in November 2020.

For more information, visit: www.ntc.gov. au/transport-reform/ntc-projects/Barriersto-the-safe-use-of-innovative-vehicles-andmotorised-mobility-devices

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During the Christmas / New Year period, the Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk and the Notices and Permits Section will be operating in accordance with the following times:

Operating Hours 16th - 20th December ~ 7am – 5pm 21st – 22nd December ~ Closed 23rd – 24th December ~ 7am – 5pm 25th – 26th December ~ Closed 27th December ~ 7am – 5pm 28th – 29th December ~ Closed 30th – 31st December ~ 7am – 6pm 1st January 2020 ~ Closed 2nd January 2020 onwards ~ Normal Service resumes

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WATM • December 2019

7

News

New research shows WA drivers are slowing down

Trends In Driver Speed Behaviours On Rural Road Network

2000 To 2018

Syeda Sultana 2019 Western Australia March MAIN ROADS

| TRENDS IN DRIVER SPEED BEHAVIOURS

ON RURAL ROAD NETWORK 2000 TO 2018

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ew data shows Western Australian drivers are slowing down, with the highest rate of compliance of WA's speed limits recorded in nearly two decades.

Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts recently released a survey of speed compliance, collated and prepared by the Road Safety Commission and Main Roads WA. The results show that compared to the baseline survey from the year 2000, driver speed behaviour on both metropolitan and

regional roads has improved significantly.

Last year, 72 per cent of drivers in rural areas were found to be travelling at or below the posted speed limit, compared with 60.9 per cent in the year 2000.

In the metropolitan area, 69 per cent of drivers were compliant, compared to 53 per cent, nearly 20 years ago.

The surveys are conducted using speed measuring strips which are routinely placed across the road in 200 different locations across WA with free-flowing traffic.

The metro speed zone where drivers were found to be the most compliant was 80km/h, while for regional drivers it was 70km/h zones.

The survey revealed the best compliance with speed limits was on weekdays, with 71.4 per cent compliance on metro roads recorded on Thursday and Friday, while drivers on regional roads recorded the best compliance on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Police and Road Safety Minister Michelle Roberts said, "This data is really encouraging and shows that the culture amongst drivers is changing.

"Independent verification of compliance with speed limits is very valuable in assessing whether our road safety strategies are working.

"It is worth noting that while this latest survey represents an encouraging trend, there is still room for more improvement.

"And while drivers who do the right thing have nothing to fear, police will continue to target those people who drive at excessive speeds and put themselves and other road users at risk."

Second provider now certified for Hill Descent Monitoring application

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ransport Certification Australia has announced Transport Compliance Services (TCS) as a second certified service provider of Hill Descent Monitoring (HDM) – a new application of the National Telematics Framework. TCS is a subsidiary of MTData, one of Australia’s leading telematics providers.

The HDM application manages the risks associated with heavy vehicles travelling down long or steep hill descents. It monitors heavy vehicle speed on descent on a nominated route, and indicates if a driver has performed safety checks before the descent.

Main Roads Western Australia is the first jurisdiction to make use of the HDM application, and results of their initial trial of HDM will inform future network access decisions.

HDM may be applied by road managers or regulators as a condition of road network

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use for specific kinds of vehicles at high risk locations – they will advise transport operators if HDM is a condition of access.

The application can also be used by transport operators who want to better manage the safe use of their vehicles, and obtain access benefits, for example when transporting primary produce from regional areas across hilly slopes such as Roelands Hill on the Coalfields Highway in WA. As with all other applications of the National Telematics Framework, HDM references common building blocks including the Telematics Data Exchange and associated Business Rules.

Dennis Turner, the Head of Operations at MTData/TCS, said, “We are delighted to become certified by TCA to offer the new HDM application.”

“We strive to provide excellent service and a seamless integration of telematics for operators. HDM is part of our commitment

to safety and productivity. We look forward to working with Qube Logistics, and other operators who are seeking to use HDM for trials in Western Australia.”

In addition to HDM, TCS supports numerous applications available through the National Telematics Framework, including: • Intelligent Access Program (IAP) • Interim On-Board Mass (OBM) Solution • Intelligent Speed Management (ISM) • Intelligent Speed Compliance (ISC) • Certified Telematics Service (CTS) • Traveller Information Exchange (TIX).

For more information about TCS, please visit www.tcs.net.au To find out about HDM, including how it works, benefits and scheme information visit www.tca.gov.au/ntf/applications#hdm or information on the National Telematics Framework visit: www.tca.gov.au/ntf/ national-telematics-framework

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

Thank you to Richard Sellers Director General | Department of Transport for answering the below questions Question: Can you please explain by QUBE have been granted PBS permits to run triple road trains through a freeway with high local congestion?

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PBS road trains are considered to be the safer road trains.

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WATM • December 2019

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

Glenn is a former second generation West Australian truck driver who still has a bit of diesel in his veins

Walked a mile in our truck drivers' shoes

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ll too often I get phone calls from truck drivers that are becoming more and more disgruntled about the state of the transport industry. I’m probably starting to sound like a broken record but no matter how you look at it the transport industry is in a mess.

Low wages, long hours, driver shortages, poor working conditions and so the list goes on. Over the years, there have been heaps of Government organised enquires into the state of the transport industry with all its problems but they never amount to anything that is going to benefit the poor old truck driver.

The first ones that come to mind was about twelve years ago when The National Transport Commission with the help of The Hon Lance Wright and Professor Michael Quinlan prepared an excellent report on the problems within the transport industry and the need for safe rates for drivers. This report is one of the most

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WATM • December 2019

comprehensive reports ever done with regards to having a safe industry. They even outlined the solutions but I think it was put into the ‘too hard’ basket as nobody wanted to rock the boat and make the multi-national companies pay a fair rate for their transport needs.

The next major attempt to help truck drivers was to be the introduction of The Road Safety Tribunal. This was several years in the making and it promised to be the saviour of the transport industry. It was all looking good and everyone was looking forward to its introduction. That was when at the eleventh hour the proverbial hit the fan as the multi-nationals, the big transport companies and trucking organisations realised that it was going to cost them as they would not be in any position to exploit truck drivers any more. Even truck drivers wanted nothing to do with it as they were conned into believing that they would all lose their jobs.

With the aid of the media, big business and the Government of the day the hysteria build up was huge and so with a stroke of a pen it was delegated to history after only one day of its introduction.

I agree that The Road Safety Tribunal was flawed but it would have given us the framework to build a new transport industry and in time we could have ironed out the bugs.

What really irks me was the Government promised at this time that it would not turn its back on the transport industry and help would be on the way. I haven’t seen any help and every week more and more truck drivers go broke just trying to exist in an industry that they love. It’s certainly not hard to be cynical.

Enter 2019, and because of problems and pressure from industry sources Senator Glenn Sterle has stepped up to the task of chairing an inquiry into the importance of having a viable safe sustainable Transport Industry.

Some will say, “Who is Glenn Sterle?” Glenn is a former second generation West Australian truck driver who still has a bit of diesel in his veins. I can still remember in my early days of my career truck driving bumping into Glen at various locations in our great state. At least we have someone here trying to help us that has walked a mile in truck driver’s shoes. He’s done the hard yards so I’m a bit hopeful that this time round we will finally get the help that we have been desperately looking for.

Submissions have been requested from anyone in the industry so I hope everyone out there who is not happy with the transport industry in its present form has taken the time to put pen to paper.

By the time you read this it will be too late as submissions close on the 8th of November. This is just about truck drivers getting a fair go so we can operate a sustainable business and be safe on the road.

We have a chance of reform, so fingers crossed that common sense will prevail and before long we can look forward to a safe and sustainable future.

Keep it safe, Ray Pratt

News

Major milestone for Mitchell Freeway extension

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he extension of Mitchell Freeway • Noise mitigation, street lighting and from Hester Avenue to Romeo safety barriers where required Road has reached a significant The freeway extension will service the milestone with expressions of interest rapidly growing north-western suburbs sought from industry for its design and of Butler, Yanchep, Alkimos and Eglinton construction. as well as areas to the east including Planned to support and facilitate the Nowergup. expansion of Perth's fast growing outer The suburbs of Yanchep, Alkimos and northern suburbs, the 5.6 km extension of Eglinton - which had a population of about Mitchell Freeway 3,000 people in will include: Expressions of interest called 2006 - are now • Completion of for design and construction of home to about the Mitchell the Mitchell Freeway extension 30,000 people.

Freeway State interchange Government at Hester Avenue and a new freeway population forecasts indicate the area will interchange at Lukin Drive be home to about 118,000 people by 2031 • A rail tunnel for the existing rail line at - about 1.5 times Mandurah's population of Butler station around 80,000.

• Construction and connection of Romeo Construction is expected to commence in Road between Marmion Avenue and late 2020, subject to all environmental and Wanneroo Road heritage approvals being obtained from • Duplicating 1.8 km of Wanneroo Road the relevant Commonwealth and State from Romeo Road to Trian Road regulatory authorities.

• A new shared path for cyclists and More information on the procurement process pedestrians is available at: www.tenders.wa.gov.au.

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Work Health and Safety Excellence Awards winners announced

he eight winners of the inaugural Work Health and Safety Excellence Awards 2019 include: Work health and safety invention of the year (199 employees or less) - Quattro Project Engineering for its development of a mechanised solution for installing and removing underground mine ventilation fans without working at heights.

Work health and safety invention of the year (200 employees or more) - Clough for minimising work at height through development of alternative construction methods that can be applied to the construction of any steel structured building.

Best solution to a work health and safety risk (199 employees or less) - Mainline Demolition for their best practice approach to demolition of the Old Mandurah Bridge resulting in a zero incident, zero harm completion.

Best solution to a work health and safety risk (200 employees or more) -

TENSA Equipment and Multiplex for the Roborigger, a load controlling device that allows lifting to be performed without workers needing to be in the hazardous vicinity of the lift.

Best workplace health and wellbeing initiative (199 employees or less) - Galactic Co-operative for their commitment to the wellbeing of their employees through employee engagement and a risk-based approach to mental health and wellbeing.

Best workplace health and wellbeing initiative (200 employees or more) – Consolidated Minerals for their proactive approach through implementation of the proactive mental health management program 'Mining Minds Matter, Working Away Not Alone'.

Leadership excellence award - Rio Tinto - Core Services for their project 'driving leadership excellence in electrical safety' which identifies, evaluates and targets the highest risk conditions in electrical safety to protect employees from electrical risks.

Trucking industry welcomes paliamentary friends

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he Australian Trucking Association and Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) have welcomed the establishment of a new Parliamentary Friends forum that will allow federal MPs and Senators to work more closely with the road transport and heavy vehicle industries.

Chaired by Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories Nola Marino and Shadow Assistant Minister for Road Safety Glenn Sterle, Parliamentary Friends of Trucks, Trailers, Transport and Logistics (PFTTTL) is a non-partisan forum for MP's and Senators to meet and interact with representatives of the transport industry.

The group will focus on priorities to make a safer, more productive and environmentally sustainable heavy vehicle industry.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome the establishment of this important group and look forward to working with the engaged ministers and encourage discussion to focus on issues key to industry such as maximising productivity, raising the industry’s profile, solving the skills deficit and improving road safety,” ATA Chair Geoff Crouch said.

HVIA President John Drake said it was very encouraging to see Australia’s politicians understand the importance of the trucking industry and their willingness to engage on important issues.

“This is an unrivalled opportunity for the industry to speak with a shared voice and to raise the profile of our amazing industry with decisionmakers in the Federal Parliament,” Mr Drake said.

WATM • December 2019

11

News

Updated side underrun protection guidelines T

he Australian Trucking Association has released its updated Side Underrun Protection Technical Advisory Procedure, following a review by an industry working group.

ATA Chief Engineer Bob Woodward said the side underrun procedure was reviewed in response to industry demand and updated to include content relating to rigid trucks and prime movers.

“Side underrun protection devices reduce the chance of a cyclist or pedestrian falling under the wheels of a truck.

“The procedure explains how to design and install this essential safety equipment and includes guidance about how to fit the

devices to prime movers and rigid trucks – including construction trucks,” he said.

The review working group consisted of members of the ATA’s Industry Technical Council (ITC), representing various parties in the supply chain: Phil Webb (formerly PACCAR Australia), Scott Grimme (Fiberglass Transport Equipment), Greg Brown (MaxiTRANS), Brent Fuge, (CMV Truck and Bus), Dennis Roohan (AJM Transport) and Lyndon Watson (Don Watson Transport).

“The process included reviewing European regulation R73 and then processing the requirements into a workable document that meets Australian operations

and conditions,” Mr Woodward said.

“Once completed, the procedure was evaluated by our ITC, a committee that works to enhance the trucking industry’s safety, professionalism and viability by providing technical input and best practice advice to the ATA. The process also included a peer review before final approval by the ATA general council.

“The ITC brings operators, suppliers, engineers and industry specialists together in a long-term discussion forum, and is always open to new members,” he said.

To view the ATA Technical Advisory Procedures visit: www.truck.net.au/resourcetags/technical-advisory-procedures.

Construction commences for new Manning on-ramp

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ongestion at the Canning Bridge and Kwinana Freeway interchange is set to improve with the construction of a new southbound freeway on-ramp from Manning Road in Como.

Federal Minister for Population, Cities, and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said improving freeway access will bust congestion for local and regional road users.

"It forms part of a transformative road improvement program, with seven congestionbusting road projects now underway in Perth's southern suburbs," Mr Tudge said.

"Safety enhancements including local intersection improvements, traffic efficiency and reduced travel times mean the local and wider community will benefit from this vital new freeway connection."

Western Australian Minister for

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WATM • December 2019

Transport Rita Saffioti said heading south from Manning Road on Kwinana Freeway currently involves an intricate path of traffic lights, freeway on and off-ramps and variable speeds - the new on-ramp will make access so much simpler.

"We expect this project to reduce pressure on other parts of the road network and to complement the many upgrades underway on the Kwinana Freeway and its connecting roads," Ms Saffioti said.

"While there are some roadworks in the short-term, southern suburbs commuters will notice a huge difference to their travel times upon completion and we thank them for their patience."

The project has been funded by the Australian and State Governments' $2.3 billion investment package in road and rail

infrastructure works announced in May 2017.

Upon completion, around 7,000 vehicles per day will use the new on-ramp, reducing traffic on the Canning Highway and improving travel times by five minutes during peak hour.

Along with the new on-ramp, the project will also include construction of a southbound freeway lane from Canning Highway to Edgewater Road footbridge and a merge lane from the new on-ramp to the Kwinana Freeway, heading south.

BMD Construction was awarded the contract in August 2019 with the new onramp expected to be operational in mid-2020.

The $35 million project was jointly funded with the Australian Government committing $28 million and the Western Australia Government committing $7 million.

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

Trailer tarpaulin cover mechanism fracture – fatal accident

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n September 2019, the mechanism used to open and close a tarpaulin cover on a triple road train trailer failed while a truck driver was in the process of closing the cover.

To close the cover, the tarpaulin cover is rolled from one side to the other over the top of the trailer while the tarpaulin tube (tarp tube) is rotated by a hydraulic motor located on the end of a spring loaded arm. As the cover approached the closed position on the top of the trailer, the tarp tube fractured. The combined tension and weight of the motor and spring arm caused the motor end of the arm to move through a downwards arc, ending up at the level of the cover operating switch at the front corner of the trailer.

It appears this may have struck the truck driver who was found unconscious, and later died in hospital.

It appears this may have struck the truck driver who was found unconscious, and later died in hospital

Recommended actions To prevent similar incidents occurring, the Department recommends the following actions.

• Conduct a risk assessment of trailer covering systems paying particular attention to the risk of an operator being exposed to hazards during opening and closing of the cover. Ensure all actions are implemented.

• Assess if the tarp roller operating switch is in a location that places the operator in the line of fire should a failure occur, and implement controls to manage the risk.

• Ensure inspection and maintenance is carried out as required by the manufacturer or a competent person and all connection points are regularly inspected.

• Ensure the trailer covers are being operated within design specifications.

• Promote hazard reporting and appropriate response to reduce the potential for inaction.

The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety's investigation is ongoing. Information contained in this article is based on findings at the time of writing.

WATM • December 2019

13

Over to you WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

MAJOR CHANGES FORECAST FOR WA ROAD TRANSPORT TRAINING

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estern Australia is on track for major changes in road transport industry training to help address the shortage of suitably employable drivers and logistics staff.

The shortage of suitably skilled drivers has been identified as one of the major issues of concern for Western Roads Federation member companies. The shortage of drivers that companies feel confident to be able to hand the keys too, extends from couriers to road train drivers and all in between.

Western Australia Driver Academy Starting with the Western Australia Transport and Planning Minister Rita Saffioti’s announcement at last month’s WA State Freight and Logistics Conference.

The annual State Conference is jointly organised by Western Roads Federation and the WA Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with the support of the WA Freight and Logistics Council.

WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti gave a rapid-fire 20-minute address to more than 200 conference goers, emphasising the State Government’s “record investment” in road and rail projects to improve freight movement and reduce congestion for commuters.

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WATM • December 2019

She said the investment totalled $8.2 billion across the State’s forward budget estimates.

“We see this as a huge opportunity to continue to invest across the network,” Saffioti said, adding that job creation was also a priority.

“We’re trying to get our projects on the ground as quickly as possible to get as many people employed as we can.

At the conference Minister Saffioti announced that the McGowan Government was keen to pursue a dedicated course in truck driver training as soon as possible.

This follows recent meetings with Premier Mark McGowan, Minister Rita Saffioti, Education Minister Sue Ellery, the Transport Workers Union and Western Roads Federation.

At the conference Minister Saffioti announced that the McGowan Government was keen to pursue a dedicated course in truck driver training as soon as possible

In making the announcement, Minister Saffioti foreshadowed future announcements on the details to train up truck drivers and help attract more young people into the industry.

“We think that is a huge opportunity for government and industry to work together,” Minister Saffioti said.

Western Roads Federation Chairman Craig Smith-Gander welcomed the statement by the Minister and committed WRF and its members to continuing to work collaboratively with the Government on developing an industry training solution that may include a WA Transport Industry Driver Academy.

Western Roads Federation is forming a working group of its members with the Government to develop the industry driver training solution.

“I think this is great initiative and look forward to being part of it. We know good industry training works and those professional drivers are the public face of your company,” said Heather Jones, Pilbara Heavy Haulage Girls.

Bringing in New People At a later session at the event, Western Roads Federation Chairman Craig SmithGander also announced that WRF was

short listed for a multi-million dollar bid to facilitate much needed entry level training into the WA transport and logistics industry.

This training program will take people in to the industry and provide them with up to 12 weeks of industry training and workplace placement. Companies at the end of the training can elect to employ the trainees and if they do they can receive a government funded employment bonus.

Pipeline Approach Needed “Solving the shortage of suitably skilled people into the WA industry requires a pipeline approach that addresses everything from attraction to job entry pathways to driver skills and the on-going skills and career development, “Craig Smith-Gander said.

There is no one solution to the industry skills problem. We need to attract people, train them, upskill them as needed and retain them. It is also beyond the capacity of one association to advocate, develop and implement each of the solutions needed.

In developing the pipeline solution, Western Roads Federation is not trying to

WA Transport and Planning Minister, Rita Saffioti with Western Roads Federation Chairman Craig SmithGander and Carl Skinner from Penske Power Systems

re-invent the wheel. Instead it is working collaboratively with other associations, to leverage knowledge or good work they have undertaken. In particular, NATROAD’s road transport career portal and the Victorian Transport Association’s industry driver training model. Western Roads Federation is also collaborating with the Northern Territory Road Transport Association on how we address remote area driver skills training.

Get Involved Craig Smith-Gander is encouraging all Western Roads Federation members to participate in the working groups to help design solutions to the pipeline issues.

If you want to get involved contact: contact: Cam Dumesny |Cam. dumesny@westernroads.com.au

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 2019

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News

MITCHELL FREEWAY NORTHBOUND WIDENING WORKS TO COMMENCE

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he State Government is continuing with its congestion busting, jobcreating program of road upgrades, with Premier Mark McGowan and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti on hand to turn the sod on Mitchell Freeway widening works.

The newest freeway project will see an additional fourth lane added between Hutton and Cedric streets on the Mitchell Freeway, a well-known afternoon bottleneck for commuters with more than 70,000 trips made on this stretch of freeway a day.

The $16.5 million contract has been awarded to BMD Constructions Pty Ltd and will create and support local jobs.

The upgrades will also include a double exit lane to Cedric Street, new safety barriers along the verge and three new emergency stopping bays. Street lighting, CCTV and Vehicle Detection Stations will also be upgraded.

Works are expected to be completed by September 2020.

The State Government is undertaking a massive transformation of Perth's freeways with more than $400 million committed to upgrading both the Mitchell and Kwinana freeways.

Projects include: • The $47 million Smart Freeway project which will create an additional traffic lane between Canning Highway and the Narrows Bridge by utilising the emergency stopping lane as a full-time running lane, known as All Lane Running; • The widening of the Kwinana Freeway northbound between Russell Road and Roe Highway ($49 million); • The widening of the Mitchell Freeway southbound between Cedric and Vincent streets ($59

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WATM • December 2019

One-in-10 compliant with permit conditions

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national operation inspecting increase from the 28 locations utilised in more than 3500 heavy vehicles, 2018. including oversize overmass Mr Salvati said the operation was and Performance Based Standards intelligence-led, with real-time data combinations, has found that 93 per managed through the NHVR Command cent were compliant with their permit Centre, ensuring information between conditions.

NHVR, the heavy vehicle data network NHVR Chief Operations Officer and on-road officers including police was Paul Salvati said the third Operation managed effectively.

Kingsize was conducted over nine days in “The average intercept duration for September. compliant vehicles “This year, was 14.1 minutes, This year, officers inspected officers inspected compared to the 3533 heavy vehicles which 3533 heavy vehicles average intercept showed that 93.1 per cent were duration of 30.7 which showed that compliant with their permit or minutes for 93.1 per cent were notice conditions compliant with their non-compliant permit or notice vehicles,” Mr conditions,” Mr Salvati said.

Salvati said.

Overall there were 872 offences “Importantly, we saw over the course recorded across a range of categories, of the operation, the compliance rate which equates to a compliance rate of 82.3 increased as word spread about the nature per cent of the vehicles intercepted – an of the operation. increase from 80.7 per cent last year.

“This year’s operation was also designed The most common offence in relation to better educate drivers on compliance to access was failure to carry a required with 25.9 per cent of intercepts resulting in permit or notice, required under the a warning and information for operators.”

Heavy Vehicle National Law in states Authorised Officers from 10 agencies where applicable. Other offences included including police, state transport agencies breaches of mechanical safety (31.8 per and the NHVR were deployed to 142 cent), mass (12.8 per cent), dimension (5.2 locations across Australia, a significant per cent), and loading (4.8 per cent).

million); and • Mitchell Freeway extension from Hester Avenue to Romeo Road ($215 million).

WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "More than 70,000 trips are made between Cedric and Hutton Streets down the Mitchell Freeway each day.

"Between 2013 to 2018, there have been 808 crashes along the Mitchell Freeway northbound between Powis Street off-ramp and Karrinyup Road on-ramp.

"Once complete, the additional lane will help ease congestion and improve traffic efficiency and road user safety.

Over to you BIRDS EYE VIEW by Carol Messenger

SHOULD THE GOVERNMENT DECIDE HOW MUCH WE SHOULD CHARGE?

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nother multi-million inquiry is being put into place looking into the "Importance of a viable, safe, sustainable and efficient road transport industry”.

Sounds good doesn't it? I mean, we all want a safe and sustainable industry don't we? A job where we can work less hours for more money - who doesn't want that?

The TWU is backing this inquiry and that should put out warning bells to start with. This is the same Union who pushed the RSRT. In my opinion, the RSRT was an attempt by the Union to push all the family companies out of business by setting an unfair playing field by allowing large companies to charge less than what smaller family companies would have to legally charge.

Why was the Union supporting this?

Because most small family companies are not Union members, yet a large majority of those working for the bigger 'name' companies are.

By driving out the smaller companies, Union membership grows and the Union coffers are once again gleaming with gold.

Like any Government inquiry this will take many months, cost millions of dollars and is unlikely to make any real changes.

Sure, all the words sound good but the Transport Industry is no different from any industry - we all have our share of cowboys who come into the industry and rip the floor out of the rates, then have to run illegally, overloaded and over hours to even up the shortfall in their quote. They don't last long but sadly usually go out owing money left, right and centre leaving others to pick up the pieces.

I guess your attitude not just on this inquiry, but on the Transport Industry in general, depends on where you sit. As an Owner Driver of a small business I see and deal with a different set of circumstances than a straight wages driver does. I guess for me it is easier. I know my per-kilometre costs and I don't cut my rates. In fact, my rates are more than others; but I provide

a complete and quality service and people are prepared to pay for that as it saves them in the long run.

Transport is just like in any industry you can employ a painter who uses cheaper paint and only does one coat or you can employ one who prepares the surface, puts on two coats and uses quality products and his price will be more.

I don’t believe it is the Government's job to decide how much we can charge - it is up to us to work out what is a fair remuneration for the work involved.

One of the terms of reference in the inquiry relate to "The development

I don’t believe it is the Government's job to decide how much we can charge - it is up to us to work out what is a fair remuneration for the work involved and maintenance of road transport infrastructure to ensure a safe and efficient road transport industry". Bingo - the Government is ‘directly’ responsible for this and I think they are doing a pretty crappy job.

Three major WA transport routes, Great Eastern, Great Northern and North West Coastal Highway - all of which see massive amounts of daily traffic are narrow, neglected and have more patches than hobos pants. Take the millions of dollars that they are spending on an inquiry and put it into actually repairing the roads.

Another thing that the Government want to look into is "The social and economic impact of road-related injury, trauma and death". Why is this a part of a Transport Industry inquiry? More cars and motorcycles are involved in vehicle accidents than trucks are - so why are they lumping this all in with the Transport Industry.

You can read a list of the terms of reference below. To me it is just a word fest. Someone just stringing together a bunch of words to try and justify the setting up of another committee. a. the development and maintenance of road transport infrastructure to ensure a safe and efficient road transport industry; b the regulatory impact, including the appropriateness, relevance and adequacy of the legislative framework, on all stakeholders in the road transport industry; c. the training and career pathways to support, develop and sustain the road transport industry; d. the social and economic impact of road-related injury, trauma and death; e. efficient cost-recovery measures for industry stakeholders, including subcontractors; f. the impact of new technologies and advancements in freight distribution, vehicle design, road safety and alternative fuels; g. the importance of establishing a formal consultative relationship between the road transport industry and all levels of government in Australia; and This Industry does not need another Senate Inquiry and it certainly doesn't need Government telling us what we can and can’t charge. It doesn’t do it to any other Industry and we don't want it done in ours. A good business will set good rates, train and provide career pathways for its employees anyway and if you can’t make a profit running your business then you shouldn’t be in it… Simple.

WATM • December 2019

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Focus

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT PERMIT I NEED? “What type of permit are you looking for?”

Do you have a Main Roads WA Accreditation?

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ne of the most common enquires the Main Roads Heavy Vehicle Help Desk gets is, “How do I know what permit I need?” In answering this question, there are a number of things that you can do to help us help you.

Help Desk Manager Janice Ekert says, “The more information you can give us the better. There is some key information that we always need. If callers can provide us with that information, we will be able to provide them with the right answer quicker and more accurately”.

So what are the key things you should have ready before you ring 138 486?

Here they are: 1. Your Details • Your Operator number. You will need one to get a permit. Don’t have one? Go to our website the address at: www.mainroads. wa.gov.au/UsingRoads/HVS/Pages/ gettingstarted.aspx, then call the Help Desk.

• The registration number of the vehicle or vehicles you will be using.

• The vehicles mass - Tare / GCM and GVM. 2. What are you Carting / Carrying?

• Is it grain, livestock, a loader, and how long or wide is it, what does it weigh? This all has a bearing on the permit.

3. Where are you going?

• As you probably know, WA has a Restricted Access Vehicle (RAV) Network. We ask this question so we can direct you to one of these networks if we need to.

4. The type of vehicle do you want to use?

• The diagram opposite may help guide you through the process of selecting the correct permit for you requirements.

Just one more tip. If you can have our web page open in front of you before when you ring we can guide you to the relevant information over the phone. What was that web address again? www.mainroads.wa.gov. au/UsingRoads/HVS/Pages/default.aspx

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WATM • December 2019

NO

Please go to our website or contct the Heavy Vehicle Services Help Desk 138 486

YES

CLASS 1 Is the configuration single trailer or float (low loader) moving a large load?

Empty Platform or carrying dolly/trailers, tools and loading equipment Cat Dozer Excavator Swimming Pool Transportable Building Truss Frame One large item that cannot be broken down.

Prime Mover with extendable trailer(s) Boat for personal use and the towing vehicle that is not over 8 tonne aggregate Cranes/drill rigs/concrete pumping trucks.

Amusement Rides, Cone Crusher, mobile chipper (Towed implements that can’t be licensed as a normal trailer). ** SPV is a non-load carrying vehicle

CLASS 2&3 What are you Carting/ Carrying? and What is your combination? (ie Road Train or B-Double?)

Are you a Tri Drive?

Did you do oversize work on Road Train or B-Double?

Do you require an extra mass permit?

Building Products Concrete Furniture (multiple Items) General Freight Grain Groceries Hay Lime Livestock Sand Straw Wool 3 trailers and 2 dollies under 36.5m Large Indivisible Item 3.5 wide on Road Train or B-Double.

Oversize Divisible Products 2.7 wide Hay, Straw, Wool and Concrete pipes

Containers extra mass (import/export only) Livestock extra mass CWMMS Concessional Bulk Products Multi loading with extra mass on a single trailer or more combination. (eg B-double or road train, etc.)

Please read operating conditions on our website www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/ UwingRoads/HVS/Pages/default.aspx to ensure that products are correct for you.

If you are unsure please contact the Heavy Vehicle Services Helpdesk for assistance on 138 486.

News

Further resource potential of the Pilbara marked through new stratigraphic well

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Platform Trailer Relocation Permit or Single Trip Class 1 Oversize or Overmass Period Permit or Single Trip Single Trip if 1 large item and 1 extendable trailer or Class 1 Oversize or Road Train with Long Trailers Class 1 Oversize (Boat Trailer)

Please go to our website or contact the HVS Help Desk

Prime Mover Trailer Combination or Truck Trailer Combination Notice Tri Drive Prime Mover Trailer or Tri Drive Truck Trailer Period Permit Short Triple Road Train Oversize Road Train and B-Double Permit Oversize Divisible Products Prime Mover Trailer or Oversize Divisible Truck Trailer

Containerised Cargo (import/export) Concessional Livestock Period Permit Please go to our website and refer to the Accredited Mass Management Scheme (AMMS) section or contact the HVS Help Desk

new stratigraphic well in Western Australia’s Canning Basin will help scope out exciting new resources in the region, paving the way for new investment and jobs, Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan says.

The Waukarlycarly drill site in the South West Canning Basin was identified off the back of data from Australia’s largest onshore seismic line which highlighted two areas of the Basin - the Waukarlycarly Embayment and the Kidson Sub-basin - which showed new mineral, energy and groundwater potential.

“This well will provide the resources industry with greater certainty to explore in the region and create more jobs. The Waukarlycarly project is frontier science because the drill hole is well outside of areas previously explored in the region and will provide a much better understanding of the sub-surface geology of the area,” Mr Canavan said.

It’s estimated the basement will be reached at about 2200 metres once drilling is completed in late 2019, with results to be made publicly available in mid-2020. The Canning Basin has great potential for both

future energy security,” Minister Canavan said.

The Federal Government's Exploring for the Future Program has provided $5 million in funding for this drilling project, with the Geological Survey of Western Australia managing the operations.

Western Australian Minister for Mines and Petroleum Bill Johnston said geoscientists from the Geological Survey of Western Australia at the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety are working with Geoscience Australia to conduct the drilling.

“This drilling operation illustrates the benefits and importance of StateCommonwealth collaborations to fund exploration and provide valuable scientific data.

“Access to data from this drill site, and the preceding seismic survey, improves exploration efficiency over a much broader area and can result in new projects that will create jobs for Western Australians.”

Minister Canavan said Australian Government investment into exploration in the resources sector is about building a stronger economy for all Australians.

“We’ve invested over $100 million

Access to data from this drill site improves exploration efficiency over a much broader area and can result in new projects that will create jobs for Western Australians unconventional oil and gas.

Geoscience Australia has estimated there are potentially 43 billion barrels of recoverable shale oil in the Canning Basin. To put that figure into context, annual global production is 29 billion barrels. Additionally, there are recoverable shale gas resources of 390 trillion cubic feet with additional potential for tight gas resources of 48.5 trillion cubic feet.

“The Canning Basin in WA, the Beetaloo sub-Basin in the Northern Territory and the Isa Basin in Queensland along with a number of other areas, all have great potential to contribute to the development of Northern Australia and Australia’s

into the Exploring for the Future program to ensure industry has worldclass geoscience information and new understanding of available resources across Northern Australia,” Minister Canavan said.

“We’re committed to ensuring Australia retains its position as a leading and competitive destination for resources investment.”

Data from the previous Kidson Deep Crustal Seismic Reflection Survey is available for free download from the Exploring for the Future website www.ga.gov.au/eftf and the Western Australian Petroleum Information Management System database at www. dmirs.wa.gov.au.

WATM • December 2019

19

Over to you HCVC members parked outside the Miling hotel, “Good Dog” is in the middle.

Mel’s Mack “Good Dog” won the prize for Best truck and for Best overall. The prizes were very impressive. We all got to share Mel’s good fortune as he put $500 on the bar and everyone got a drink or two to celebrate the wins with him.

Miling Show ‘n’Shine

By Kevin Toovey

HCVC member’s truck

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he flyer for the weekend read, “Dig your beast out of the shed, bring it along and show it off and possibly win a prize for the best car, truck or bike” and a few of our members headed up to the event.

The town of Miling was established on its present site in 1925 when the railway was completed. The hotel was originally built in 1934 by Paddy Connelly, a race horse owner and hotel entrepreneur. Great Northern Highway used to run straight through town and pass the front door of the hotel.

There have been different owners and managers but when population dwindled so did business and the hotel closed.

However, it was a sturdy building and it was restored and reopened in 2012. Since 2016, it has been under the new management of Lindsay and Julie Radomiljac.

The Miling Bypass has provided an alternative route for heavy vehicles and tourists around the town of Miling. Now people have to make a point of coming in for a visit.

It was a great weekend away and many thanks to the sponsors being Lindsay and Julie from the Miling Hotel along with Wayne and Leanne Parola from Ag Trans Contracting in Watheroo. We will see you all back there next year.

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WATM • December 2019

The White Mack belongs to Gillie Haulage and Benny drove it all the way from Kalgoorlie. It was working earlier in the week and then it had a wash and quick coat of paint before coming across to the Show and Shine.

(above & above right) Wayne Parola and Ferrett Willing had their SAR Kenworth “Passion and Pain” on display for the first time showing off all those little extras that you can have on your truck.

There was plenty of shine, you could see all the trees reflecting in the paint work around the grim reaper.

(above) A few people brought their cars or trucks along on the back of the trucks or on trailers. Some are a work in progress others not so good for long drives. It is good to get out and to have a chat with like-minded people and who have similar interests. (right) The motor bikes that came along for the day parked up inside the hotels beer garden and the riders stayed for the night at the hotel.

HCVC member’s truck

(Above, right & below, below left ) More vehicles that were brought along on the back of trucks or trailers.

The Miling Hotel

(Above) Bill Ninnis's Kenworth T 650 next to "Passion and Pain" (Left) Eddy brought his big Ute along and he had his toys on the back. The Cat bulldozer is nearly finished now. I did overhear some guy who wanted to buy it off him but I believe they aren't for sale. If he changes his mind he might have a business opportunity.

WATM • December 2019

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News

Global BatteryPowered Electric Commercial Transport Fleet Expanding

G

overnment regulations, tax incentives, and improved price parity are leading to the increasing adoption of battery-powered electric commercial vehicles (BEV). Initial adopters range from municipal buses to refuse trucks, light-duty service vehicles, and terminal tractors. This strong early adoption will drive the number of BEV commercial vehicles to 3 million units worldwide by 2024, according to global tech market advisory firm, ABI Research.

Recently, Daimler Trucks North America delivered its first Freightliner, eCascadia, to both Penske and NFI, and Amazon ordered 100,000 electric trucks from Rivian. New business models include Volvo Trucks North America’s upcoming VNR semi-truck with an ‘energy as a service” package’. “Beyond the current headlines, companies including BYD, Proterra, and Peterbuilt are establishing a BEV market presence within key early verticals,” says Susan Beardslee, Principal Analyst, Freight Transportation and Logistics at ABI Research.

Ultimately, further growth, beyond initial use cases, requires a significant investment in charging infrastructure and new technology to reduce battery size and weight as well as significantly enhance range. “Other factors yet to be fully addressed include battery life and recycling methods. Still, the elimination of fuel costs, second only to personnel, and a significant reduction in maintenance will continue to attract significant investment and adoption of commercial BEV’s throughout the 2020s,” Beardslee concludes.

New “brother” on the way for Rexx T

he revolutionary mine haul truck Rexx has been working on a new commodity as it continues to prove its versatility in different mining conditions.

Designed and developed by Bis, the dual powered 20-wheel dump truck is working at the Ewington mine operated by Griffin Coal in Western Australia’s Collie Basin.

Bis CEO Brad Rogers said the standout performance to date of the first Rexx unit at nickel and gold operations, as well as supportive feedback from customers, had encouraged the company to commit to construct Rexx Two. Mr Rogers said the second haul truck

would be deployed in early 2020 as part of the Bis fleet servicing a customer on the east coast of Australia.

“We have been absolutely rapt with the performance of Rexx. It continues to tick the boxes that it was specifically designed for including range, fuel efficiency, manoeuvrability and conquering gradients. We look forward to our second Rexx truck starting work on the east coast in the near future,” Mr Rogers said.

The three-month Rexx trial at the Griffin operations will provide the chance to demonstrate the vehicle’s efficiency and capacity in a different mining environment, carrying a new ore type.

Over to you THE LONE WOLF by John Milner

I

t is always good to see Aussies helping each other, especially those who are affected by the droughts in the east coast.

That is the spirit that most of us was bought up with and I hope that future generations will pass that spirit on.

I stopped and helped a fellow truckie who had broken down just out

22

WATM • December 2019

of Meekatharra. That was the start of a friendship and we are still mates after 50 years. It does not hurt to stop and give someone in need a bit of your time.

There seems to be so much ‘road rage’ these days particularly with more people on the roads, and many with little driving experience. Where has the common sense

gone I wonder? There should be classes in school just on ‘common sense’ I think.

Helping our fellow citizens sometimes works out and other times not and a few times you wonder why you are wasting your time, but at the end of day it is about keeping that Aussie Spirit alive.

Take care and keep it safe.

History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon

1961 A PROPOSED AMENDMENT to the Traffic Act would require all road commercial vehicles to carry loads in accordance with the manufacturers’ specifications, plus 10 percent. This was thought to require an additional 46 trucks to do the same work as 201 trucks. When related to the Association membership, it would require an extra 460 trucks for the 2000 now on the road. The cost of purchasing new vehicles would be just the start with additional drivers’ wages, licence fees, insurance, etc, adding to the bill.

The Association opposed the amendment and the Minister instructed the Association and the Police Traffic Office to confer, which they did. The new Act would take effect from June 30, 1963 and the Association managed to gain an extra 10 percent.

Parents whose children attended Eneabba School near Three Springs declared a stay-home strike until local governments provided better roads on the local school bus route. It worked, as within a few days of the strike, the road boards concerned had road gangs on the job. Some people were not aware that local authorities received a special allowance of £12 per mile from Main Roads for repairing and grading unsealed school bus routes and that the Association was not satisfied that all of the sum was devoted for the specific purpose it

was granted.

The Midland Railway Company of WA extended its road tour operations into fishing and hunting expeditions to the mouth of the Murchison River, covering 832 miles in a week. Eight wildflower tours were staged in September with two nights being spent in Geraldton at the new Geraldton Motel.

Some interesting statistics: The trucking industry operates 750,000 commercial vehicles and employs 600,000 workers, hauling 8,500,000 ton miles of freight per year. It buys 500 million gallons of motor fuel, 70 millions pints of oil and 75,000 new vehicles per year. The wages bill for the 600,000 works was estimated at nearly £730 million a year.

Reliable estimates put the loss to the transport industry through bad roads at about £200 million a year.

Motor spirit consumption per head of population increased from 112 gallons to 120 gallons in the past year.

A helping hand for that jumpy speedometer in The Transporter of February-March 1961: “The trouble is likely to be that the cable is bent at too sharp an angle somewhere along its course. Bends should be as sweeping as possible. Another possible cause suggested by the Petroleum Information Bureau (Australia) is that

the cable needs oiling. Disconnect as the speedometer and inject a small amount of oil down the casing. Gear box oil is best.”

Another helpful hint from the PIB: To prevent wear of rubber-covered pedal pads, stick on pieces of shoe sole adhesive rubber, thus providing a better non-slip surface, especially when wet.

With the improved braking systems and increased horsepower of modern motor vehicles, the Transport Minister increased speed limits in WA. Up to 3 tons stayed at 35mph in metropolitan areas and towns but jumped to 45mph outside; above 3 and not exceeding 7 went up to 35mph and 40mph; above 7 and not exceeding 13 went up to 30mph from 25mph and 35; above 13 and not exceeding 20 tons rose 10mph to 30mph as well as 30mph; exceeding 30 tons rose 5mph to 25mph and 30mph.

An amendment to the constitution saw acceptance of Ancillary Users and Transport Commission Agents. The Association decided it should be open to companies or people within these categories who would strengthen the membership of the Association and at the same time consolidate the industry.

Since its formation in 1956, the School Bus Section now has 250 members.

Bus charter rates for sporting bodies, etc, are: Up to 30-adult seating capacity, 3 shillings per mile; 3-38, 3 shillings 6 pence; 40-42, 4 shillings; Over 42, 4 shillings 6 pence. Waiting time was 12 shillings and 6 pence per hour in normal hours and 15 shillings on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.

Government workers topped 800,000 people for the first time in April. Private employment was at 2,253,300.

The Transporter of June-July 1961 gave hints on what to do in the event of nuclear attack. The transport industry would be called upon to help clean up after the holocaust, conveyance of people to hospitals, evacuation of homeless people and the feeding of the misplaced.

WATM • December 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.

VN VOLVO READYMIX MACK R600

Gary Edgley from Ballajura, Western Australia built this VN Volvo to replicate Kimberley THE LATE RHYS CROSSKIL - a pioneer and inspiration to all model truck the builders in Australia built this replica Readymix Mack R600 and cement tankerespecially many years ago.

VN Volvo built byThe Volvo truck is converted to right hand drive and painted in Readymix colours straight out of the Australia for the harsh conditions kit box. As for the tanker well, Rhys completely scratch built it. of the states North West. Painted in the original colours Gary remodified the complete bonnet, raised the cab 16mm, and added a scratch built bullbar, fuel tanks, air intakes and right hand dash.

WESTERN STAR HERITAGE Another impressive model built

by Gary Edgley is this Western Star Heritage built to replicate the everyday Western Star you see on Australian roads in the 1990’s.

Gary also scratch built the bullbar, fuel tanks and shortened both the chassis and sleeper bunk. A very nice little Aussie Battler.

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 • December 2019

REPAIRS

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18/9 Inspiration Drive Wangara WA 6065 PHONE: NEVILLE BAKER 0419 515 151 www.tyreequipment.com.au sales@tyreequipment.com.au

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