WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - NOVEMBER 2021 EDITION

THE TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY MAGAZINE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA

ISSN 2202-6193 100007516 November 2021 | price $6.95

TRANSPORT magazine

Page 4

BUZZ OF EXCITEMENT AT RURAL TRANSPORT INDUSTRY DAY There was an air of confidence when the LRTAWA gathered for its annual industry day.

With an expected grain harvest of around 20 million tonnes and strong demand for livestock, rural transporters and their service providers have good reason to smile

IN THIS ISSUE: How green is electric?

Slow Down Sign removal Call for vaccination points 16.2 Billion for WA roads WATM • November 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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Recommendations from Industry

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By Tim Dawson | Branch Secretary

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We continue to see reports and surveys from industry and the one common theme is the alarming state of the trucking industry.

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he Senate committee into a viable, safe, sustainable, and efficient transport industry handed down a series of recommendations to industry in August (link at end) that if they are all adopted, will go a long way to improving and making the transport industry sustainable.

Senator Glenn Sterle chaired the committee that heard from industry stakeholders and stories from drivers to shape a better industry.

Owner drivers, companies, company drivers, unions, associations, the big end of town and insurers were involved in the consultation process.

One after the other over decades University studies, driver surveys Government reports Parliamentary committees all say the same thing: the transport industry is in a crisis. And time after time governments do nothing.

Must we get to where they are in the UK before something changes? They are in a crisis that has led to the military needing to intervene to deliver fuel.

There’s no shortage of fuel but there are difficulties transporting it due to a lack of drivers. Their problem isn’t just Brexit, leaving the EU, a shortage of drivers, or supply chain issues linked to COVID-19.

It’s a lack of care and respect for the job truck drivers do.

Not everyone can be a qualified professional truck driver. It takes years of training, education, and dedication, and it’s about time these attributes were recognised.

Governments, or should I say politicians, at the whim of big business continue to look at the easy option in importing foreign labour. This is not the answer, it is a shortsighted view, and it is dangerous.

The TWU has been banging on about this for years and it is good to see we are having some success with the WA State Government spending around $50 million in the budget to upgrade and build new truck parking amenities.

We need to improve nutrition and mental health for truck drivers. Federal and state governments need to do more.

The TWU continues to campaign to improve safety and conditions for truck drivers in the transport industry. Because if we don’t, it won’t be long until the same issues that are happening in the UK happen in Australia.

At the WA Labor State Conference, the TWU changed the party platform with several motions. An extract of two of the motions are below.

An industry-wide skills passport and safe work certification The Road transport sector remains one of the most critical in terms of the wellbeing of the WA economy and still has unacceptably high levels of accidents and deaths among those who work in it. This is partly due to the fact that transport workers receive no standardised or mandated safety induction training upon their commencement in the industry or are subject to multiple variants of training modules that are often not applicable to their local situation.

The Transport Workers’ Union of WA sees significant benefit in the unanimous recommendation of the Senate Inquiry to expand the existing Transport Education Audit Compliance Health Organisation’s (TEACHO) BlueCard as a means to introduce a standardised and universal safety induction unit and a skills passport for the

transport and logistics sector.

The application of this BlueCard Skills Passport system that is standardised, universal and compulsory will improve accessibility, reduce training costs across the sector and lift the quality of training.

Portable Long Service Leave A number of states have Portable Long Service Leave in a number of industries.

In WA we have PLSL in the construction industry, and it operates with great effect for its members.

To up-skill or progress many employees will go to another employer, yet their service period for LSL simply does not follow. The employee, by way of self-improvement, loses the service period of that employer, which tends to restrict people from moving on and improving themselves by way of up-skilling and improving the education of the driver base. This, in effect, reduces the pool of skilled workers within transport and the greater benefit for other businesses.

We ask that the principles of PLSL apply to the transport industry.

Drivers in Western Australia should be able to transfer to another employer and not lose the service period for Long Service Leave, an entitlement that is taken for granted by many outside of the transport sector.

These are not new solutions, but they are solutions to problems that if nothing is done about now, things will likely get worse, adopting these recommendations will ensure our industry will keep moving.

Recommendations to Industry Visit www.aph.gov.au and search for “List of Recommendations”.

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magazine

VOLUME 27 | NUMBER 10

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

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t the time of writing this, the Glasgow Climate Change Conference is looming and there is pressure for Australia to attend and adopt Net Zero by 2050. Cam Dumesny from Western Roads Federation rightly points out in this edition that it does not matter whether you believe in climate change or not anymore - change is coming. Some are calling it the next industrial revolution.

When it comes to being ‘green’ in transport for both transport companies, their customers and suppliers WA Transport still has some niggling questions about Electric – namely what charges them – a 6570% (according to Minister Keith Pitt) coal fire powered national electricity hub and

where is the technology that solves this. Page 10 In this edition is the LRTAWA’s 2021 Industry Day and it really is interesting reading.

The competence of some heavy vehicle drivers, English language proficiency being a basic prerequisite for obtaining a heavy vehicle licence…

It’s all in there what people in the industry are talking about – Page 4 Thank you as always to everyone in the WA Transport Mag family. I was so pleased to see the open rate from the digital editions was above 75%. Apparently that is unheard of, so thank you to everyone who reads and I always welcome comment, thoughts, criticism or if you would like to have your say – that is what the magazine is for. Just email me at karen@ angrychicken.com.au Best,

ACCOUNTS T: 0430 153 273 E: accounts@angrychicken.com.au PRINTER Daniels Printing Craftsmen SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions available directly from the Publisher.

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

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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Karen

CONTENTS 4 ............................................ L RTAWA – Buzz of excitement at Rural Transport Industry Day 10............................................ How green is electric?

12............................................ HVS Industry Information Sessions 14............................................ I ndustry calls for road transport testing and vaccination points estern Roads Federation – WA Transport Industry Forecast 2022 16............................................ W Part Two

18............................................ $4.5 billion for regional roads 19............................................ Another $11.7 billion for WA roads 20.......................................... Hall of Fame – Terry Bairstow 21............................................ Tieman Tankers partners with Road Tank Repairs WA egional Roadworks Signage Review handed to government 22.......................................... R

Every Month 11............................................... Questions to WA State Government 13............................................ Fair Go for the Owner Driver 15............................................ Bird’s Eye View 23.......................................... HCVC 24.......................................... WA Transport History

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LRTAWA Industry Day

Sponsors’ truck display

Buzz of Excitement at Rural Transport Industry Day Sponsors’ truck display

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here was an air of confidence at the Burswood on Swan function centre when the Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia gathered for its annual industry day on the 14th August. It was impossible to ignore the extra buzz of excitement from sponsors and transporters alike. With an expected grain harvest of around 20 million tonnes and strong demand for livestock, rural

transporters and their service providers have good reason to smile.

In a radical turn-around from previous years the sun drenched the outside sponsor display of an impressive range of trucks set against what must be one of the most stunning vantage points in Western Australia.

At the start of the day, LRTAWA President, David Fyfe welcomed delegates and drew attention to a major area of dissatisfaction among drivers and that is the lack of facilities and amenities for them to use whilst on the road. He said it is a basic level of respect that drivers are able to access clean, purpose-built facilities.

The LRTAWA has been promoting better facilities for some time and Mr Fyfe said he was pleased with progress this year, together with the Western Roads Federation and the Transport Workers’ Union, with agreement for joint Commonwealth/State funding for ablution facilities at a number of locations. In the coming year there is a commitment to focus on locations in the South-West and Great Southern.

Mr Fyfe also drew attention to the ongoing

Mr Fyfe went on to say that English language proficiency should be a basic pre-requisite for obtaining a heavy vehicle licence and the trainers need to be more closely scrutinised Above & below: The Main Roads’ shaker – will the truck pass the test?

Timm Lange, Tianco Transport and Cliff Atkinson, Phoenix Insurance enjoy the outside sponsor displays

importance of focussing on access and continuity of the network. He highlighted the agreement for access for laden Category 5 and 6 vehicles down Bedfordale Hill in January as a major step forward.

The competence of some heavy vehicle drivers is a hot topic in transport circles.

According to Mr Fyfe, the driver shortage has exacerbated this problem. He said the association regularly received complaints from operators about near misses or outright dumb behaviour by other heavy vehicle drivers. We know that at least one company has withdrawn from work on Great Eastern Highway because of the risk to its drivers on that road.

“It’s a bad look for the industry and it’s bad for road safety and the licensing and training system needs review.”

Mr Fyfe went on to say that English language proficiency should be a basic pre-requisite for obtaining a heavy vehicle licence and the trainers need to be more closely scrutinised.

He said, “at the same time, the system is precluding potentially competent

drivers from the MC class because of age restrictions.”

“With the huge infrastructure program we have ahead of us, access to competent drivers will become more difficult and we risk compromising road safety if we don’t confront this issue head-on.”

In opening the industry day, Department of Transport Director General Peter Woronzow, thanked the freight industry once again for keeping the wheels turning through the COVID-19 disruptions.

Importantly he announced that access down Greenmount Hill would soon be opened up to 36.5m road trains, subject to conditions, following the trial that had been underway since early 2020.

Mr Woronzow also drew attention to the massive infrastructure spending planned over the next four to five years including $200m for rail investment, part of which will be allocated to rail sidings at Cranbrook, Broomehill, Brookton and Moora. In addition, $187.5 million has been allocated to upgrade local government roads. Works totalling $258m

have been underway in 2020-21 on State roads within the agricultural supply chain network. When complete, up to 50% of WA’s regional road network will be upgraded, including many roads within the agricultural grain freight road network.

Vice President of the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association, Matt Henderson spoke about the 2020/21 national work program. The ALRTA successfully campaigned for a loading ramp Australian Standard which is now operational.

Earlier this year, the ALRTA launched a national injury survey. Results indicated that, in the past five years, 87% of members have experienced an injury while loading or unloading livestock. Almost 70% experience near misses frequently. There is a strong belief that incidents are underreported due to concerns about the impact on repeat business.

Mr Henderson said the ALRTA took the difficult decision to stand alone among industry associations in supporting a 2.5% increase in heavy vehicle charges for 2021-22.

WATM • November 2021

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LRTAWA Industry Day Evertrans dolly ready for auction

Mark Talbot recognising Graham Knox for his significant contribution to rural transport

Cliff Atkinson hard at work conducting the auction, ably assisted by Mark Talbot (left) and Peter (Warby) Warburton

Ben Macnamara, CEO CBH makes a point about export shipping performance

No one wants charges to increase, but the reality is, the longer we delay a charging increase, the larger that increase will have to be He said that after opposing a 6.0% increase in 2019-20, modelling indicated that without an immediate 2.5% increase our industry would face increases of at least 4.5% year on year for the foreseeable future.

“No one wants charges to increase, but the reality is, the longer we delay a charging increase, the larger that increase will have to be”, Mr Henderson said.

Christine Smith from Injury Matters in explaining the services on offer from her organisation stressed that it is never too late to seek help when you have experienced road trauma either directly or indirectly. Ms Smith said some people seek help 20 to 30 years after the event. Support and counselling is available through Road Trauma Support WA which is a free service.

One of the most talked about presentations of the day came from Greg Smith. Mr Smith is the principal of Wayland Legal and has spent more than 6

WATM • November 2021

two decades working in workplace law, specialising in employment and safety. He is also an award-winning author and former Principal Safety Advisor for Woodside Energy Limited. His ‘straight to the point’ approach to health and safety and industrial manslaughter laws had delegates listening intently as he artfully cut through the complexity of the liability various duty holders have in the workplace health and safety space.

One of his most compelling pieces of advice was “do not buy an off-the-shelf set of safety procedures … unless you read them, understand them, and are going to make sure they are followed”. He highlighted that in certain circumstances doing so can increase an employer’s exposure to prosecution if something goes wrong.

Perhaps it came as no surprise but was a worthy reminder nonetheless, that employers are responsible for careless employees

including acts of ‘spontaneous stupidity’.

Dr Nick Mabbott from Beyond Midnight Consulting gave one of his usual entertaining but informative presentations on the difference between tired, drowsy and sleepy driving and how to recognise the signs. He said with tired driving most people recognise the signs such as a gradual decline in attention but don’t stop for a break because they don’t think it is a problem. Without action a driver will move through drowsy driving to sleepy driving which is the worst level of risk where microsleeps occur with little or no vehicle control.

He made it clear that the different levels of driving impairment require different levels of controls. Unlike the common adage of ‘stop driving when you get tired’, he suggests we get good sleep before we drive, and that we stop and take a break before we get tired because finding a truck stop when we are falling asleep may not be possible.

The Livestock & Rural Transport Association of WA The LRTAWA greatly appreciates the support and ongoing commitment of the following sponsors at the 41st Industry Day THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING 2021 SPONSORS

DIAMOND

SAPPHIRE

Ausquip

Air Brake Corporation

Bunbury Tyrepower

Alcoa Wheels

CJD Trucks Perth

All Truck Spares

Equipment Finance

Capricorn Society

Evertrans

City Panel Beaters Truck Repairs

Forch Australia Fuel Distributors of WA Fuwa K Hitch Jost Australia K Craft Bullbars KRU Engineering Michelin Australia

General Transport Equipment Lake Grace Tyrepower Pacific Finance Australia SAF Holland Teletrac Navman

Phoenix Insurance Brokers

NATIONAL bp Byrne Trailers Cummins South Pacific Goodyear Lowes National Transport Insurance PACCAR & Dealer Industry Fund

PEARL GIO Global Autocoat Great Southern Fuel Supplies

Swan Towing Truck Centre Western Australia

Kumho Tyres Orrcon Steel

Truckline

12 Volt World Albany Scania Western Meat Packers

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WATM • November 2021

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LRTAWA Industry Day

When complete, up to 50% of WA’s regional road network will be upgraded, including many roads within the agricultural grain freight road network

Bidding was brisk during the auction

Dr Mabbott will soon release his muchanticipated book, Beyond Midnight – The Wonder of Sleep. Managing Sleep to be the Best Version of You, at Home, at Work and on the Road, which is the culmination of over 25 years working in the field of sleep and fatigue management research. The book is sure to provide many useful tips for managing fatigue.

Acting CEO CBH Group, Ben Macnamara told delegates that strategic forces were at work in the WA grain market opening a value creating window for half the year. He said, “Black Sea investment will extend the shipping window, making it more important for WA grain to be exported during its peak.”

Mr Macnamara also noted that the accumulation period last season during the peak shipping months had suffered from a number of factors such as Cyclone Seroja, border closures, a lack of labour movement, a shortage of skilled drivers and competition from the resources sector for train drivers. Notwithstanding this he said the supply chain still held up.

Main Roads Heavy Vehicle Transport Inspectors were on hand to demonstrate the heavy vehicle shaker. The audience held its breath while the inspectors’ vehicle and a member’s new prime mover were put through their paces on the shaker, but happily they both passed with flying colours.

Special invited guests for the day were Graham and Pednoy Knox. Graham has recently announced his retirement, as reported in the last edition of this magazine. The LRTAWA wanted to recognise the outstanding contribution 8

WATM • November 2021

Graham has made to rural transport over the years. He has developed many longlasting friendships and we wish he and Pednoy a healthy, happy and well-deserved retirement.

Bidding at the traditional fund-raising auction was enthusiastic as usual with Cliff Atkinson from Phoenix Insurance doing the honours as auctioneer. Anyone who has seen Cliff in action knows he has a particularly

engaging style and there is no place to hide if you look like you should be bidding.

The day was topped off with dinner and entertainment from magician Pierre Ulric.

Pierre had the audience in raptures with his disappearing acts and mysterious tricks of preventing some in the crowd from remembering how to read!

At the AGM earlier in the day David Fyfe from Fyfe Transport was elected LRTAWA President for a third term. Peter Warburton from Warby’s Transport was elected vice president of the Livestock Division and Wade De Campo from De Campo Transport was elected vice president of the Rural Division.

Matt Henderson from MDH Logistics was elected secretary and Darran Bairstow from Flexitrans was elected treasurer.

Running events in the current environment takes a leap of faith as you are never sure an immediate shutdown won’t bring a sudden halt to arrangements but as long-time committee member Mark Talbot from Wedderburn Transport said, “it was fantastic for sponsors and industry to come together at a time when we thought we might not be able to host an event – everyone was a winner.”

The LRTAWA is very grateful to speakers and sponsors who came on board without much notice and added to the atmosphere and success of the day. We certainly couldn’t do it without you.

Muscle Mite looking resplendent

Sponsors’ truck display

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News

How green is electric?

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lying cars, Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) capable of moving payloads up to 300 tonne, robotic parcel sorters... These types of new technology that are becoming available in the world transport market today and some of these products are already being utilised in Australia with the exception of flying cars.

There is also an ever increasing number of companies around the world really going to town in new energy technology with names like Rolls Royce who are selling countries their small nuclear modular reactor plus many truck manufacturers who are or have developed exciting new transport technology that moves away from vehicles being powered by fossil fuel.

Here in Australia - Zero-Emissions Autonomous Trucks are a thing in mining, and in transport it is likely to be either hydrogen or electric powered that people are looking at.

Everyone wants well for the planet and with that spirit in mind, there seems to be a few obvious questions that need to be asked before choosing which green transport route to travel - both as a supplier and a customer.

For the transport companies, whether it can be integrated into your existing fleet, suitability to the application, running costs, how long it will last, the cost to maintain, re sell will feature in the decision. However, as much of this technology is new or still has not been developed there is limited data to look back on.

Hydrogen is the fuel, however electric requires charging. With hydrogen, it seems that exisiting roadside amenitities such as road houses and service stations could be utilised with the installation of hydrogen

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tanks into their existing hub.

This will in turn provide another industry for transport to compete in with delivery of hydrogen throughout the state.

However, with electric there is a big elephant or two in the room which no one is talking about, namely – they are being charged by a 65% coal fired national power grid and where is the technology that offers a subsititute to this?

Whilst electric can and is working in inner

Ask Google: Q Can electric vehicles charge themselves?

A No. Energy conversions are

never 100 percent efficient, so every time we convert one form of energy to another, we lose some of that energy.

Hybrids and EVs recapture some of their energy back into the batteries through regenerative braking.

city, Perth to Port Hedland is a little bit out of its scope at present with battery life but perhaps solar panels on top of all the road trains and hope it does not rain could be the answer to this problem... but seriously, it will be interesting to watch how technology develops to tackle these problems.

The other aspect not spoken about is the cost to the planet of producing these battery cells and new technology. Did

we not learn from solar panels and start questioning what is involved in making them that could negate the end result you want to achieve - which is saving the planet isnt it?

These questions should be asked by customers who choose a transport company based on its green credentials. Are those credentials really helping the planet or are they just lining someone’s pockets?

As Western Roads Federation point out in this edition, whether we believe in climate change or not is irrelivent – governments, multi-national companies across the board, world banks etc are trying to control the narrative on where the world moves to and we are along for the ride.

We are seeing a steady increase in Australian transport businesses and bodies touting electric as the way to go. They offer you and government assistance, they offer incentives for their contractors to use electric... there are books, products...blah, blah, blah however, not one of them addresses the facts about how electric is and will be charged in Australia, or that the technology and infrastructure for it to be environmentally viable has not yet been developed.

What could be a further thorn in the electric story is if governments adopt renewable energy that relies on the weather to replace coal and gas. We have seen this scenario playing out overseas and no one wants unreliable expensive power.

Minister for Resources and Water Keith Pitt says, “Australian coal is not going anywhere as coal-fired power still provides around 65 per cent of Australia’s electricity and remains the most reliable form of power generation.”

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 Can the Incident Response teams in high speed environments be contactable via two way to better control environments and liaise with heavy vehicles?

Answer from Main Roads Spokesperson Main Roads’ Incident Response Service Teams are fitted with UHF CB radios which are used primarily for communication with other Incident Response Service vehicles.

All UHF CB radio contact with other road users is undertaken by our Road Network Operations Centre (RNOC), who can make contact with heavy vehicle users if required.

Question When are we going to have more parking bays between Wubin and Paynes Find? If you leave Wubin late at night your only choice is to make it to Paynes Find.

Answer from Main Roads Spokesperson The 153km long section between Wubin and Paynes Find: Northbound, there are four minor parking bays (used by light vehicles), a truck bay, a road train assembly area and a rest area with toilet facility.

Southbound, there are 6 minor parking bays (used by light vehicles) and a rest area.

Two of the existing minor parking bays (one in each direction) have been planned for expansion, to include provision for trucks to stop. Funding has been received for the upgrades through the 2021/2022 Heavy Vehicle Safety & Productivity Program.

Main Roads will also be installing additional toilet and shower facilities in the Wubin RTAA, and toilet facilities will also be included in the proposed HV rest area (southbound) mentioned above.

You can find our rest stops using our online travel map or you can download our Guide to Safe Stopping Places by going to www. mainroads.wa.gov.au/travel-information/driving-in-wa/long-distancedriving/ or pick up a copy from Main Roads offices, or request one through our Customer Information Centre on 138 138

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Main Roads News

HVS Industry Information Sessions

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ver the past 12 months, Main Roads’ Heavy Vehicle Services (HVS) team has undertaken a number of industry workshops and information sessions across Western Australia so transport operators, local government representatives and others involved with the transport industry could attend in their local area.

Workshops were held in every region providing Main Roads with an opportunity to further develop industry relationships so that, when new products are developed, or changes to processes and policies are being considered, they’re done with a better understanding of industry needs.

The focus of discussions was around ‘what can we do together to make this work better?’ with participants encouraged to raise concerns, issues and potential solutions. Sessions also included an interactive workshop to discuss trending issues between small groups from across industry and Main Roads subject matter experts on topics including the WA Heavy Vehicle Accreditation, Compliance, Permits, Access and Department of Transport matters.

As a result of feedback from earlier sessions, Main Roads has implemented a

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number of improvements, with more to come. These included clarifying Pilot roles and responsibilities, rewording conditions to remove ambiguity, amending Traffic Guidance Schemes, improving webpage layouts, increasing dimension limits under certain products, and reviewing access restrictions.

We’re also currently assessing an eight-tyre per axle low loader Period Permit and new Orders to replace the basic Period Permits.

This is an example of how we can work together to provide the best outcomes for transport operators across Western Australia.

Consideration is being given to providing further sessions in 2022.

Show Time in the Regions – Main Roads attendance at Dowerin, Kununurra, Newdegate and the Perth Boat Show Main Roads recently attended the Dowerin Field Day with representatives from Heavy Vehicle Compliance team, Wheatbelt Regional office, Environment Branch and Department of Transport Marine Safety.

The event drew large crowds this year, with the Main Roads stand attracting a record number of visitors.

The Transport Inspectors took questions from visiting truck drivers and

farmers with the main topic for discussion being the impact of winter rains on the road network in our regions. The overwhelming sentiment was people would rather have the rain, bumper crops and damage to the road, than no rain and no crops.

Environment Branch took the opportunity to raise awareness of the Wheatbelt Revegetation Bank program, and promote opportunities for landowners to sell their unused property near the road network for potential inclusion into the Revegetation Bank. There was also interest in future projects in the Wheatbelt, including the Bindoon Bypass and Eastlink.

Main Roads was also represented at this year’s Kununurra Agriculture Show, Newdegate Machinery Field Days and the Perth Boat Show.

As a result of feedback from earlier sessions, Main Roads has implemented a number of improvements, with more to come

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

Governments need to become the leaders in the truck driver shortage problem

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f you have been watching overseas news lately you may be aware that the United Kingdom has shown motorists queuing up anxiously trying to fuel up their vehicles.

Britain does not have a fuel shortage as such, but it does have a significant shortfall of truck drivers.

This is causing some very serious supply issues for retailers including fuel deliveries as they fail to get the fuel from refineries to the gas stations around the country. The situation is so bad that many fuel outlets are dry and remain so for many days.

United Kingdom transport companies have repeatedly requested assistance from government to help solve this massive shortage of drivers. Sound familiar?

The government has offered temporary visas to try and attract foreign workers and they have called in the army to also help. It has been reported that Britain needs up to 100,000 more drivers.

The trouble is the army only has a small crew of truck drivers and foreign drivers can work in their own countries usually for better money and working conditions than having to travel to Britain to work.

The truck driver shortage is not only a big problem for the UK but is also for most European countries that have a shortfall running into several hundred thousand drivers needed. Britain is so desperate that it has even written to retired drivers asking them to consider coming back to work.

Like most countries, Britain does have enough licensed truck drivers but also like most countries drivers are leaving the industry in droves because of poor wages, long working hours, and poor conditions at roadhouses and parking bays and not having a social life.

If we in Australia think trucking is a hard job then it appears the problem exists worldwide and generally speaking no one has a solution to the problem.

It’s predicted in the UK that by Christmas the shortage of drivers will mean that many shops will be having empty shelves and so a bleak festive season lies ahead.

So why am I bringing to your attention problems that are happening in another

country with regards to the shortage of truck drivers? We are having similar difficulties in attracting new drivers to our industry and the reasons are the same worldwide.

For many years government have been warned in Australia about a looming shortage of truck drivers. What have they done about it?

There have been some small token efforts to train and entice people into the transport industry but like everywhere else around the world nobody is addressing the real issues that are plaguing our industry to the extent that we can get more drivers behind the wheel. This is going to get worse unless someone takes the initiative to address the whole transport industry fiasco.

The governments need to become the leaders in the truck driver shortage problem. Truck driving is a professional demanding job and truck drivers need to

be treated with respect, looked after and encouraged to make a career within the transport industry.

Instead of trying to be greedy in driving down transport costs big multi-national companies need to step up and help train drivers and encourage them to want to stay in the industry. After all, they are the ones who need truck drivers to operate their business.

The days are gone where truck drivers can be exploited with poor pay and work conditions. Facilities, meaning roadhouses, truck bays toilets and showers are all in the firing line for big improvements. Unless these issues are dealt with it becomes a pointless exercise enticing new drivers into the industry to have them leave at a later date because they become disillusioned.

Is anyone listening?

Keep it safe, Ray Pratt

UK transport companies have repeatedly requested assistance from government to help solve this massive shortage of drivers. Sound familiar?

WATM • November 2021

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News

Industry calls for road transport testing and vaccination points

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he ATA and its members are calling for the establishment of two national road transport industry testing and vaccination points.

“Recently we saw the example of two truck drivers testing positive in WA. They had completed a COVID test in NSW, but the results had taken three days to process,” CEO of Western Roads Federation Cam Dumesny said.

The proposal has recommended 24-hour COVID testing sites be set up at Port Augusta in South Australia and the NT Border control point at the Barkly Highway Roadhouse in the Northern Territory.

“These are just two points at which nearly all national east-west road freight movements must pass through, and would also protect the north-south route from Port Augusta to Darwin,” ATA CEO Michael Deegan said.

Executive Officer of the NT Road Transport Association, Louise Bilato said road freight drivers must have access to 24-hour testing facilities.

“There has been too much reliance on truck drivers getting COVID tests and vaccinations done in hospital and medical clinics that only take bookings 8am – 4pm on weekdays. It is increasingly hazardous,” she said.

SARTA CEO Steve Shearer said operating interstate road freight in the COVID era is a national challenge.

“It is essential that the Australian Government assists the states and territories by funding key vaccination and testing facilities that service interstate road freight drivers so we can continue to sustain the community and the economy,” Mr Shearer said.

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Mandatory vaccination of WA transport, freight and logistics workers in force

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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.

Changes to the Transport, Freight and Logistics Directions under the Emergency Management Act 2005 will further protect this highly mobile workforce.

From 12.01am, October 24, transport, freight and logistics workers will need to have had at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to enter WA if they have travelled through a 'high' or an 'extreme' risk jurisdiction. These workers will need to be fully vaccinated within two months of their first dose, which means they must have received their

drivers and rail support crew, where these employees are required to travel from or through a 'high' or an 'extreme' risk jurisdiction for work.

In addition to the mandatory vaccination requirement, these workers must also wear a facemask when in public, show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result or undertake a Rapid Antigen Test at the WA border and if they are staying in WA, they must comply with the regular testing regime until 14 days has passed.

It will be the responsibility of employers to collect and maintain records of vaccinated workers.

The Directions provide exemptions for unvaccinated transport, freight and logistics workers, for approved medical reasons.

Latest health advice mandates for first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine effective from 12.01am, October 24, 2021 and second doses by 12.01am, December 24, 2021 second dose by 12.01am December 24.

Each day, there are about 300 crossings of the Western Australian border by transport, freight and logistics workers.

Many of these workers are from WA, while some are based in other States and Territories.

Regardless of where a worker lives, the Directions will apply to them if they have transited through a 'high' or an 'extreme' risk jurisdiction within 14 days of entering WA. The Directions include, but are not limited to, freight truck drivers, pilot/ support vehicle drivers, removalists, rail

Premier Mark McGowan said, "The transport, freight and logistics workforce is by its nature highly mobile with truckies and other workers visiting numerous places during the course of their work.

"I have a lot of admiration for the work of people in transport, freight and logistics, who do an incredible job each and every day.

"We have already seen instances where truck drivers from places like NSW and we can never be too vigilant in our efforts to keep this deadly virus out of WA," he said.

Over to you BIRDS EYE VIEW by Carol Messenger

OVER USED AND FORGOTTEN TO BE REMOVED

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low Down Road Works Ahead’ must be one of the most dreaded of all the road signs.

There seem to be so many of them, often erected by over-zealous road workers they go up and then they stay there seemingly forever - whether there are road works going on or not.

Used correctly, these signs are critically important in protecting and saving road workers and road user’s lives by staying to a safe speed limit for the road conditions and work being carried out.

However, in this state ‘Slow Down’ signs are in my opinion ‘over used’ and ‘forgotten to be removed’ when road works are completed or not being worked on. This is what I find the most annoying.

I don't think anyone begrudges the 80, 60 or even 40kph signs on the road when there are workers or vehicles on duty carrying out repairs. The problem is these signs are left there often for months on end whilst there is ‘no’ sign of any work being carried out.

Is it because someone ‘forgot’ or was ‘too lazy’ to take them down? That is what it seems like to me or is it something else?

The law states that you ‘have to’ abide by the speed restriction signs regardless of whether there is work going on or not.

Main Roads Department advise that the signs should be removed when the work is either completed or if the area is not being worked on but therein lies the dilemma.

What does 'completed' mean and what exactly does 'not being worked on' mean?

We all know those bits of road that lie in a dormant state for months and months on end – nearly, but not quite finished. There is no work going on and the road is safe however those dreaded speed restriction signs remain up. I just don't understand it - do the road contractors get paid extra the longer they delay?

Just get in there and finish it off is what I say. Get the road open to normal traffic and normal speed as quickly as you can.

The new extension bypass of New Norcia is a perfect example. There must have been at least six or eight months

where there were 80kph signs for about 30km of the route however no work was being done. Then one day, with no apparent difference in the visual aspect of the road from the day before, the signs just disappeared and life returned to normal.

I have been doing a few trips lately to Leonora through the patch of road out from Southern Cross where Main Roads have been widening the shoulder. There is 30km of road that has a speed restriction of 80kph but I have ‘never’ seen a road worker, road work vehicle of any type or sign or any recent work having been done on that stretch of road any time that I have been passed there.

I have travelled this route weekdays and weekends, mornings, afternoons and nights nut nary a worker in sight. So why then the need for the speed reduction?

It was a crappy road before and you could do 100kph on it. Some widening has been done (quite a while ago) but now, although it is safer you have to go slower. What is the story there?

Absolutely a ‘Yes Minister’ scenario in my mind.

We all respect road workers safety, and the need for traffic to slow down whilst there are workers on the road but guys how about you show a little courtesy and respect for the other road users and either lay down, cover or remove your speed restriction signs when the road is safe to use at the normal speed limit and they are not needed.

It is no wonder that people flaunt the restrictions. It has to be a two way street where both parties play their part.

in this state ‘Slow Down’ signs are in my opinion ‘over used’ and ‘forgotten to be removed’ when road works are completed or not being worked on

WATM • November 2021

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Over to you WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

Western Australian Transport Industry Forecast 2022

COPENHAGEN - DEC 7: Opening Day, Visitors in the Bella Center pass the Globe of Climate Consortium Denmark at the UN Climate Change Conference on December 7, 2009 in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Part Two

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his is the second of a two part article looking at what next year holds.

This edition looks more at the Federal issues.

Emissions Whether you believe in climate change or not is a moot point, because global actions are going to drive change in our Industry.

At the end of this month in the UK, there is the UN Global Conference on Climate Change. Here is what they are saying: • Road transport accounts for 10% of global emissions, and its emissions are rising faster than those of any other sector.

• To meet the Paris agreement, there needs to be a faster transition towards zero emission vehicles.

There will inevitably be building pressure on our industry both in Australia and this state (seems like we are two separate nations now) to reduce vehicle 16

WATM • November 2021

emissions. How, I discuss in the section below.

Road Pricing Reform Currently the heavy vehicle industry pays for roads through a combination of registration charges (collected by the State) and a road user charge embedded in Diesel Fuel excise (collected by the Feds).

The Federal Government has been very keen for some time to change the road pricing model. This could be given further impetus if Australia agrees to the Carbon Neutral by 2050 objective that is being pushed at the above Conference.

What that could mean is that discussions next year could accelerate on changing how your trucks pay for roads.

The most likely model being that you will pay a mass-distance charge ie, you pay based on each tonne per kilometre.

It is extremely unlikely a change will get through next year, but it is certain that the conversations will be become faster and

more furious.

However, what is more likely to occur first is that companies who chose to use say Hydrogen Fuel Cell (HFC) trucks or Battery Electric (BEV), now appearing on the market could begin to start getting a commercial advantage in some instances over diesel fuel trucks.

It should be noted that the UN Conference on Climate Change is pushing for Government's to have a pricing incentive to adopt cleaner energy vehicles.

This advantage will come in two forms, potential Government incentives and the fact that using either HFC or BEV will mean that these companies are effectively not paying to use the roads because a major part of the pricing mechanism is directly embedded in the diesel fuel pump price.

This issue will only start to appear next year, but it will become a bigger issue in the years that follow.

Heavy National Vehicle Law Review There is an on-going review into the

Heavy Vehicle National Law. This is expected to be a topical conversation next year, as frustration (in the East) is building over the failure of the review to undertake a fundamental review rather than the tinkering at the edges which appears to be the case.

Both Western Australia and the Northern Territory have shown no willingness at Government or Industry level to participate in the review beyond observing. At this stage it is safe to assume that the East needs to get its own house in order with regards to the HVNL before trying to compel WA or NT to join.

Supply Chain Failings There will inevitably be a national inquiry into the near failure of our Supply Chains in the last few months.

Things like the Global Shipping crisis that has seen sky rocketing shipping rates combined with massive delays.

For an island nation like Australia that currently has only 13 flagged vessels, most of which are only tinnies on steroids it has shown just how incredibly vulnerable we are.

Secondly, the debacle with road transport where every state run its own set of rules. Making cross border movement of freight difficult and incredibly challenging for our drivers.

Thirdly, the loss of international and reduction in domestic air travel has basically smacked the air freight for six.

Domestically, road transport has picked up the slack but when you have a shortage of drivers, mechanics and crazy border rules that additional work has become a bit of a poisoned chalice for those companies doing it.

Finally, even rail has a shortage of train drivers. In WA, the estimate I have been told is that it is in the order of some 300 train drivers.

Whether you believe in climate change or not is a moot point, because global actions are going to drive change in our Industry

Summary As the world leaves lockdown, (well except Victoria they seem hell bent on setting a new world record) we are going to face a new set of challenges.

I am confident that our industry will get through them.

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

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

For a membership application form Email cam.dumesny@westernroads.com.au ◆ Phone 08 9365 7799 or 0481 064 371 180 Hay St, East Perth WA 6004

WATM • November 2021

17

News

DGL adds to WA capabilities through acquisition of Profill Industries

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GL Group Limited a specialist chemicals business that manufactures, transports, stores and processes chemicals and hazardous waste announced the acquisition of Profill Industries Pty Ltd for $7.65 million.

Profill is a chemical manufacturer based in Wangara, WA and the company provides chemical manufacturing, blending and packing services to customers across Australia and has been operating profitably for over 10 years.

Included in the acquisition are the leases of multiple warehouse and manufacturing facilities in WA and the appropriate licences and planning approvals for these operations. The business and assets will be fully integrated into the broader DGL Group, and will operate as a subsidiary of DGL’s chemical manufacturing business.

Founder and CEO of DGL, Simon Henry, said, “The Profill acquisition broadens our service offering and footprint in WA where we have been focused on growing our business and customer base.

“The acquisition brings a number of new customers that we aim to service across Australia’s east coast delivering national solutions. We also see a significant opportunity to cross-sell and engage these customers across all three of our divisions for manufacturing, warehousing and environmental recoveries.

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$4.5 billion for regional roads

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he WA Government is delivering $4.5 billion for major road projects and programs throughout regional Western Australia as part of the 2021 22 State Budget.

Major projects funded and under construction include: • $852 million for the Bunbury Outer Ring Road; • $175 million for the Albany Ring Road; • $98 million for upgrades to Great Northern Highway at Ord River in the Kimberley; • $36 million for Port Hedland Airport deviation; • $52 million for Coolgardie Esperance Highway at Emu Rocks.

The 2021-22 State Budget also includes funding for projects currently in procurement or planning, including: • $120 million to upgrade and seal 100 kilometres of Marble Bar Road; • $380 million to construct and seal

Manuwarra Red Dog Highway Stage 4; • $250 million for upgrades to Great Eastern Highway at Coates Gully, between Walgoolan to Southern Cross, and between Ghooli to Benari; • $55 million to upgrade Indian Ocean Drive between Jurien Bay and Brand Highway.

The jointly funded Regional Road Safety Program continues and will see $217 million spent during 2021-22 to seal shoulders and install audible edge lining over 3,300 kilometres of roads.

A further $194 million has been allocated to continue this program in 2022-23 and 2023-24. This is in addition to the $258 million invested to upgrade almost 4,300 kilometres of roads over the past year. $145 million has also been allocated to the Safer Roads and Bridges Program in regional WA, with an additional $193 million invested in the Resealing Program in regional WA. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "More and more people are choosing to hit the road and take holidays in regional WA, so it's important we make sure our regional roads are safe.

"The 2021-22 State Budget highlights our focus on building a long-term and sustainable program to safeguard WA's economy and deliver the necessary upgrades to improve road safety across the regions.

"We have a number of major projects under construction across regional WA from the Kimberley in the north, to Albany in the south - to support local jobs and improve safety.

"We are also continuing to deliver our Regional Road Safety Program which will see over 7,000 kilometres of regional roads ungraded by mid-2022.

For more information, visit www. ourstatebudget.wa.gov.au

Zero-Emissions Autonomous Trucks

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io Tinto and Caterpillar have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Caterpillar’s development of zeroemissions autonomous haul trucks for use at one of Rio Tinto’s WA mining operations.

The collaboration will see Rio Tinto work with Caterpillar to advance the development of the manufacturer’s future 220-tonne 793 zero-emissions autonomous haul truck including the validation of Caterpillar’s emerging zero-emissions technology.

Rio Tinto and Caterpillar will progress a series of development milestones to include a 793 prototype pilot program,

testing and pre-production trials.

It is anticipated that the world’s first operational deployment of approximately 35 new Caterpillar 793 zero-emissions autonomous haul trucks will be at GudaiDarri once development is complete.

Gudai-Darri is Rio Tinto’s most technically advanced iron ore mine, in the Pilbara, Western Australia Caterpillar Group President Denise Johnson said, “The integration of autonomy with a zero-emissions fleet demonstrates Rio Tinto’s commitment to reach net zero emissions.

News

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Pandemic shocks and geo-political tensions fuel supply chain disruption and innovation

nvesting in technology and innovation will be key to resilient and sustainable supply chains, research by Asialink Business reveals • Supply chains are under unprecedented strain, due to the impacts of the pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and rising shipping costs.

• Businesses across Australia and Asia need to invest in building resilient supply chains that can keep pace with the explosion of e-commerce and changing consumer expectations around sustainability.

• The Asia-Pacific region accounted for 62 per cent of all e-commerce sales globally in 2020, with cross-border e-commerce accounting for a significant proportion of the overall e- commerce market in certain markets, in particular from Singapore into Malaysia.

• There is a trend towards moving production back home (onshoring)

or into nearby countries, diversifying suppliers across the Asia-Pacific region and boosting inventory.

• Technology investment, including automation, connected sensors and data analytics, is critical to supply chain transformation but small/medium business risks falling behind.

• The Asia-Pacific is not a homogenous consumer market, with a differing platforms and routes to market shaping emerging consumer and supply chain developments.

Faced with unprecedented disruption and strain, businesses in Australia and Asia need to rapidly transition to equip their supply chains for current and future challenges. New research launched by Asialink Business, supported by Toll Group, analyses the structural pressures on supply chains and argues that technology, innovation, and e-commerce will be key to building sustainable and resilient

supply networks.

The research, which included a survey of businesses across Australia and the region, found that supply chain uncertainty is hitting small business hardest. Thirty-two per cent of small businesses surveyed said restrictions on business could threaten their operations, compared to 15 per cent of medium-sized businesses and eight percent of large businesses.

The research identified a trend towards moving production back home (onshoring) or into nearby countries, diversifying suppliers and boosting inventory.

Onshoring is particularly appealing to small business, with 30 per cent of those surveyed considering it as an option to improve their resilience.

With a strong call to action to supply chain leaders to prepare now, the report also recommends stronger partnership with government, to support business to develop resilient and sustainable supply chains that meet the needs of citizens in Australia and across the region.

Download the report at: https:// asialinkbusiness.com.au/researchresources/disruption- innovationreshaping-regional-supply-chains

Another $11.7 billion for WA roads from the budget

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ver the next four years, The McGowan Government is delivering $11.7 billion for major road projects, upgrades and maintenance throughout Western Australia as part of the 2021-22 State Budget.

Major projects funded and under construction in the 2021-22 State Budget include: • Tonkin Gap works, supporting 1,050 jobs, as part of the $1.39 billion Tonkin Corridor Upgrades; • $320 million for the Great Eastern Highway Bypass Interchanges, with works to commence later this year; • $232 million for the Mitchell Freeway Extension (Hester Avenue to Romeo Road); • $76 million for the Mitchell Freeway widening southbound from Hodges Drive to Hepburn Avenue; • $140 million for transforming freeways through the Mitchell Freeway corridor; • $138.6 million for the Stephenson Avenue extension; • $259 million for the Armadale Road

Bridge - North Lake Road Flyover; • $852 million for the Bunbury Outer Ring Road; • $175 million for the Albany Ring Road; • $98 million for upgrades to Great Northern Highway at Ord River in the Kimberley; • $36 million for Port Hedland Airport deviation; and • $52 million for Coolgardie Esperance Highway at Emu Rocks.

Funding has also been allocated to projects under procurement or in planning, including: • $49.8 million for the Causeway Cyclist and Pedestrian Bridge over the Swan River as part of the Perth City Deal; • $230 million for the Swan River Crossings Project, to replace the outdated Fremantle Traffic Bridge; • $225 million to prepare for the construction of grade separated interchanges on Reid Highway at Altone Road, Daviot Road and Drumpellier Drive;

• $110 million to prepare for the duplication of the Mandurah Estuary Bridge; • $27.5 million for construction of Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation; • $120 million to upgrade and seal 100 kilometres of Marble Bar Road; • $380 million to construct and seal Manuwarra Red Dog Highway Stage 4; • $250 million for upgrades to Great Eastern Highway at Coates Gully, between Walgoolan to Southern Cross, and between Ghooli to Benari; • $55 million to upgrade Indian Ocean Drive between Jurien Bay and Brand Highway.

As part of the McGowan Government's continued commitment to road safety, funding has been allocated for the following programs over 2021-22 and forward estimates: • $16 million for the Safer Roads and Bridges Program in Perth and Peel; • $104 million for the Resealing Program in Perth and Peel.

WATM • November 2021

19

Hall of Fame

Terry Bairstow, left, and below, the Great Southern Hearts crew, including Terry (second from the right).

TERRY BAIRSTOW

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errence Eric Bairstow, nicknamed “Chubby” was born in Dumbleyung, Western Australia in 1942. He has been married to Maree for the past 49 years.

Terry grew up on the family farm and after leaving school started shearing and share cropping. When the farm was sold in 1970, he thought he would have a go at trucking.

He purchased his first truck - a petrol Acco and did a few trips up north.

However, the roads were terrible, the heat was unbearable and without an air conditioner or sleeper cab, it was very hard. On one of these trips Terry had five punctures as he had only been able to afford second hand tyres. When he saw a dam with water, he jumped in, clothes and all and by the time he got back to the truck, his clothes were dry.

In 1972, Terry purchased a second-hand sheep crate and traded in his Acco for a second hand M.A.N. which turned out to be a lemon.

A couple of years later he bought his first Volvo, a G88. He had a very good run out of this truck and things started to look up. Terry eventually owned three trucks and employed a local driver.

Terry also carted WA made Pederick Root Rakes over to Queensland and as Terry and his wife had five children, he would take one of them on these trips as they got older.

Some of his trips took him all the way around Australia which he saw as a working holiday and he really enjoyed seeing the

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WATM • November 2021

country. When they were old enough, Terry’s older sons started driving for him.

In the 1990s, Terry ventured into grain carting and more bulk work which meant he stopped driving for a time to work in the office.

His second daughter also got her truck licence but when she started her family, she took over the management of the business for Terry so he could start driving again.

In 2012 Terry purchased part of the family farm and started cropping 800

acres which he harvests and carts to Bunbury Port. Terry still carts grain for another farmer which keeps him busy.

In 2019, Terry joined a convoy delivering hay to farmers over East and in February 2020 Terry carted lime for a couple months.

Terry has owned his present truck since 2007 and it has clocked up 1.2 million kilometres. It will likely be his last truck but while his health holds up, Terry will keep on trucking.

Terry has owned his present truck since 2007 and it has clocked up 1.2 million kilometres. It will likely be his last truck but while his health holds up, Terry will keep on trucking

Tankers (right) PTO Drive XK18 compressor (below) Hydrostatic drive XK18 compressor

Tieman Tankers partners with Road Tank Repairs WA

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ieman Tankers introduced the first O.ME.P.S aluminium dry bulk tanker from Italy to Australia in 2009. These aluminium tankers have stood the test of time and in order to support this quality product the company have developed a wide range of dry bulk spare parts and a support network for the Australian and NZ markets.

Here in Western Australia, Tieman Tankers has increased its’ presence in the dry bulk tanker market through their partnership with Perth based Road Tank Repairs WA (RTR WA) led by Managing Director Brad Onley.

Brad has taken RTR WA from a start-up eight years ago to a successful business supporting the local tanker industry. RTR WA also support Tieman`s range of bulk liquid and dry bulk tankers and they have expanded their services into dry bulk tanker spare parts, service, and repairs.

Adding to Tieman Tankers diversity, they have been appointed the Distributor for the Gardner Denver range of compressors, blowers and hydraulic oil coolers in WA. This product range includes XK18 and TR20 screw compressors, Cycloblowers and Hydrapak hydraulic oil coolers and local supply, support, and service is available through RTR WA. Geordie Fairweather, Tieman’s Business Development Manager for Dry Bulk Tankers is supporting RTR WA to offer the very best of Tieman spare parts and Gardner Denver product support for WA customers.

“The XK18 screw compressors were introduced in WA around 20 years ago, quickly becoming the compressor of choice for many operators. They are well proven machines and suited to WA’s harsh

operating conditions as well as being the most compact, lightest compressor on the market. They can be under chassis mounted and direct PTO driven or hydraulically driven on prime movers as well as diesel engine drive,” says Geordie.

“Gardner Denver developed the TR20 screw compressors to address the issue of lack of space on prime movers for under chassis PTO drive applications. The drive input is positioned above the rotor chamber, toward the rear of the compressor. This allows the compressor to be positioned lower in the chassis and closer to the gearbox, where compressors with the drive input at the front can’t fit. This eliminates the need for expensive hydraulic drive systems where a compressor can’t be fitted under the chassis.

“Both the XK18 and TR20 screw compressors provide the optimum combination of airflow and pressure to provide quick discharge of dry bulk products such as cement, fly ash, sand, lime, flour and sugar etc. from dry bulk tankers.

Geordie continues, “The Cycloblower

is a new product to be offered in WA for pneumatic conveying granular and pelletised products such as stock feed and plastic pellets etc. that require high air flow at low pressure. They feature helical screw rotors that generate smooth, quiet airflow, without pulsing like traditional Rootes type blowers. They can be driven by PTO, diesel engine, hydraulics or electric motor.

“The Drum Hydrapak is a preengineered, highly efficient, hydraulic oil cooling package. It includes the oil reservoir, cooler, return line filter and system relief valve. All components are designed into a small, lightweight, quiet and inexpensive package. RTR WA has completed the first of several installations on prime movers recently.

“Gardner Denver products are available for purchase or including installation by the highly skilled team at RTR WA. A selection of stock is available at RTR WA to offer fast and convenient service with quick turnaround time. Please contact us for the best solution for your application,” Geordie finishes. www.tieman.com.au

Hydraulic Drive Diesel Pump

MH3 Hydrapak Oil Cooler

WATM • November 2021

21

News

Call for investigations to be extended to include heavy vehicle crashes

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he ATA and member NatRoad have called for the Australian Transport Safety Bureau’s safety investigations to be extended to include heavy vehicle crashes.

In a submission to the Joint Select Committee Inquiry into Road Safety, they have called for no-blame, independent road safety investigations - a move that has already been recommended by both the independent review of the National Road

$150m boost for hydrogen hubs

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he Australian Hydrogen Council (AHC) has welcomed the announcement by the Morrison Government of extra grants funding and expansion of its short list for a national network of clean hydrogen hubs.

AHC Chief Executive Officer, Dr Fiona Simon, said the announcement of an extra $150 million in grants funding underlines that the Government is serious about investing in Australia’s hydrogen future.

“Committing grant funding of $464m to support feasibility studies and construction is another important step forward,” Dr Simon said.

“It’s certainly a vote of confidence in the industry and we hope there’s more to come.

“There’s no doubt that Australia has the renewable energy resources, the technical skills, and the track record with international partners to become a global hydrogen leader.

“Grant funding is an important part of the bigger picture.

Dr Simon said the decision to increase the number of hubs from five to seven is good news for jobs and getting the industry to scale as hubs drive collaboration and shared benefit.

“Globally, hubs are considered vital to establish scale in clean hydrogen,” Dr Simon said.

“We now await broader planning and regulatory architecture being put into place to enable hydrogen to reach commercial scale,” Dr Simon concluded.

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WATM • November 2021

Safety Strategy and by the Productivity Commission.

NatRoad CEO Warren Clark said the submission raised key priorities that should be fast tracked, especially infrastructure improvements that will improve on-road safety.

“Road conditions are a causation factor in about 30 per cent of all crashes and is a factor in the severity of 100 per cent of crashes,” he said.

Road conditions are a causation factor in about 30 per cent of all crashes and is a factor in the severity of 100 per cent of crashes

Regional Roadworks Signage Review handed to State Government

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he State Government different towns across regional Western has received the final Australia, where they outlined their recommendation report into experiences with roadwork signage. temporary road signage following a More than 350 survey responses were Regional Roadworks Signage Review. also received on the My Say Transport Transport Minister Rita Saffioti online portal. initiated the review late last year The final recommendation report following community feedback. was shaped by the community The review was undertaken by a consultation report and the Australian reference group headed by Dennis Road Research Board technical report.

O'Reilly from the Department of The State Government will now take Transport and made the time to review the up of key industry report and its findings More than 350 stakeholders, presenting its survey responses before including response. were also received representatives from: The report is • The Traffic available at: www. on the My Say Management mysaytransport.

Transport online wa.gov.au/regionalAssociation Australia WA; roadworks-signageportal • WorkSafe; review • Engineers Australia WA; Minister Saffioti said, “At the end • Institute of Public Works of last year we established a review Engineering Australasia WA; into temporary roadworks signage in • RAC; regional Western Australia in response • Western Roads Federation; to community feedback.

• Livestock and Rural Transporters “The Reference Group has now Association WA; presented me with the final report, • Civil Contractors Federation; which looks at ways to improve the • WA Local Government Association; use of temporary roadworks and traffic • WA Police; signage in regional areas.

• TWU; and “I want to thank everyone that • Road Safety Commission participated and all our industry stakeholders for your role in shaping The community provided input this review. at a series of information sessions “I will provide the State Government’s held throughout April to July, in response to the report shortly.”

Over to you

FIATS AND LONG DISTANCE WORK 3

1

4

2

1 & 2: Rod with his current Fiat 3: Rod Boyd’s Fiat is loaded on a train for the trip Perth to Port Augusta in the same era 4 & 5: Keith Vanlewen and John Johnson’s Fiats with two different loads. Note the flap in the front of the tarp which was there to keep the dust out by pressurising the load which was needed crossing the Nullarbor when it was still a gravel road

5

F

iats were extremely good in their time for long distance work,” says Rod Boyd who has owned them since the 1970’s and has now restored one.

“The motor was rated at 122 HP when doing 3200 RPM which gave a top speed of 58 MPH. Fuel consumption was 14 miles per gallon with an eight ton load. They used Michelin tyres all round that were good for 60,000 miles. The motors were good for 300,000 miles before a rebuild,” says Rod. WATM • November 2021

23

History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon

1980 B

y the early 1980s, up to 40 air-conditioned coaches operated by six or more companies were making the 3000km trans-Nullabor trip regularly each week to and from Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney.

The first stage of the Land Freight Transport Policy was brought into operation on April 14 with the virtual deregulation of transport within 150km of Perth GPO and within 100km of the regional centres of Geraldton, Bunbury, Albany, Esperance and Kalgoorlie. From this date, road hauliers could compete freely for customers with each other and with Westrail — with no advantage save that of offering the best and/or cheapest service. A survey a few months later among customers who had changed from rail to road transport as a result of the new policy, gave some interesting results. Many gave as reasons for switching, either lower cost or less damage to goods in transit. But no less than 70 percent of them listed as their main reasons the advantages of door-to-door delivery or service on demand — both illustrations of the flexibility that had characterised road transport since its inception. On the other hand, Westrail had not suffered seriously from its new competition. In the first year its revenue fell by 0.5 percent — a loss, which it was confident would be partly or wholly offset by the operational economies made possible by the new policy.

The President reported at the February 6 meeting the sudden death of Treasurer A G Bray and it was decided to appoint D A Maher as the temporary Treasurer until the Annual General Meeting in August.

The Association wrote “a strong letter of objection” to the Government in February on the proposed 5 cents per litre tax on fuel to replace licence and third-party insurance.

The Association met with the Noise Vibration Council representative, Dr Hayworth, regarding truck noises in the Shire

24

WATM • November 2021

of Melville. It was emphasised by the Association that vehicle manufacturers should be producing vehicles, which conform to recognised noise levels.

The Confederation of WA Industry has formed a new Committee of Affiliated Associations at which the Executive Director would attend future meetings.

The Transport Commission agreed to extend the minimum life of licensed tour coaches of 10 years to 15 years or more subject to passing an annual inspection as defined in the Road Traffic Act. A Safari Tour was designated by the Transport Commission as being: “Throughout the duration of which all meals and sleeping accommodation is provided for passengers by the licensee, predominantly using tentage, portable cooking, ablution and toilet equipment carried on the licensed vehicle.”

The South West Districts branch was inaugurated at the Bussell Motor Hotel, Bunbury on November 21, 1980. Nineteen transport companies were represented and the Minister for Transport, E C Rushton, was in attendance. The following committee was elected: Chairman: J Kelly. Vice-Chairman: B Kaaks. Committee: J Bovell, G Brooks, B Blum, G Olsen, L Shepherdson. Mr Rushton spoke of the Government’s Land Transport Policy regarding road and rail. Stage 1 of the policy was introduced in April with the first step towards freeing the regulations governing road transport.

The limits of 9-tonne loads and the restricted areas of operation would be reviewed, although no indication could be given as to the anticipated date of any changes. The Government did not intend to spend public money to put additional vehicles into the Westrail road services, providing that private road transport could offer a service at reasonable cost and with adequate standards, he said.

A meeting of the National Road Transport Industry Training Committee on March 26 seeking to re-form the State Training Committee was attended and divisions were to be asked for comments.

The WA Freight Transport Committee was formed and WARTA members T O’Brien and R L Cummings were appointed to the committee. Mr O’Brien reported to the Association Executive meeting of April 30, 1980 that the main thrust of the meeting was the restrictions placed on road transport.

The Australian Road Transport Industrial Organisation WA Branch was inaugurated on May 7. There were four motions that included the formation of the branch, adopting the WARTA constitution, that Wilfred Roy Pellew be the Officer of the Branch and the election of officers: President: R J C Porter. Vice-President: B W Sharp. Secretary/Treasurer: W R Pellew. Committee: D Corley, D N Gilham, J P Cox, D G Duffield, R Heyns, P Mackie, D A Maher, R H North, H R Ramsay

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News

Behind the people who keep Australia moving Everything we do, every day, relies on the people who literally keep Australia moving. From the fresh food in our supermarkets, to the petrol in our cars, from the school bus, to the train you catch to work, even your holiday travel. None of it would happen without transport workers.

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WATM • November 2021