WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - MARCH 2021 EDITION

THE TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY MAGAZINE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA

ISSN 2202-6193

100007516 March 2021 | price $6.95

TRANSPORT magazine

Page 21

MACK MUSTER A HUGE SUCCESS Celebrating Mack Trucks 100 years in Australia, the idea of the Mack Muster was created by the Directors of WA Limestone and CTS low Loaders Steve Della Bona and Jason Clatworthy. All makes were invited and pictured is Colli Timber and Hardware's White Road Boss, not a Mack but a perfect restoration of a classic Australian built truck Image thanks to Kevin Toovey - HCVC

IN THIS ISSUE: $14 million for rest area upgrades New WA Driver Training Program Drones patrolling highways $250 million for regional roads WATM • March 2021

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he Transport Workers’ Union (TWU) has been campaigning tirelessly to improve truck driver amenities - an issue that is nothing new to the transport industry. Over the years, the TWU has surveyed our members as to the state of rest areas and the lack of appropriate amenities. The results of these surveys have highlighted what truckies put up with and the difficulty of being able to access toilets and showers.

The COVID-19 pandemic and border closures further intensified the need to address these human rights issues. Through frustration of no real improvements in truck driver amenities, I went directly to the Premier, and to his credit, he listened to our concerns.

He expressed his appreciation of what truckies have done during the COVID-19 pandemic and how they stepped up to keep the wheels of the economy turning including ensuring the public were getting their toilet paper and baked beans.

With the assistance of Minister Saffioti, a working group was formed made up of TWU, WRF, LRTAWA, Main Roads and the Minister’s office.

Transport is essential to everyday life and this has been proven over the last 12 months more than ever. It is the responsibility of all Governments to make sure the health of transport workers is a priority.

A recent survey of the health of truck drivers conducted by Monash University and supported by the TWU found widespread medical problems and psychological distress is rampant in our industry.

Hours spent sitting in a cab, days away from family and friends, isolation, fatigue, poor nutrition, time pressure, lack of

Transport Workers Secure Funding to Improve their Great Industry Government funding that could only have been made possible with the collective strength from members of the Transport Workers Union

By Tim Dawson | Branch Secretary

places to stop and rest and minimal clean and accessible toilets and showers.

Not to mention, an ageing workforce, third world amenities and no accredited training standards are some of the reasons the industry is in the reverse gear and the health of truck drivers continues to deteriorate. No wonder, we can’t attract women or young people into our industry.

While this survey is alarming this does not come as a surprise to our members of the TWU. Ask any truck driver and they will tell you their back, hips or knees are giving way

Without these hardworking people, shelves at supermarkets would go empty, medicines wouldn't be widely available, and a lot of the luxuries Australians enjoy simply would not exist from climbing in and out of the cab. Or their bladders, prostates and kidneys are inflamed from not having adequate places to rest. Or their size and weight are causing them ongoing and problematic health issues from long hours spent in a sedentary role.

It is SO vital that we improve the health of drivers. We need to see this made a priority by the Federal Government and for the entire supply chain examined with a view to improving the health of the industry.

The TWU has been working hard to change the industry for the better for both current and new drivers.

The TWU WA has recently secured

funding from the WA Government of $14 million for upgrades to WA rest areas and a further $6.1 million to fund education pathways for training West Australians in heavy vehicle driving.

A working group of transport operators was assembled to consult with and put their concerns to the Government and prioritised a list of hook up areas, roadhouses and truck parking bays that all need urgent attention.

Funding has been committed to: • Provision of ablution facilities at ten locations on key freight routes, near Bunbury, Northam, Port Hedland, Northampton, Exmouth, Wubin and Marble Bar • Expansion of the Newman road train assembly area and new ablution facilities • Sealing of existing gravel parking near Auski roadhouse • Sealing and extension of parking at Leonora and provision of toilet facilities, and • Sealing of an existing parking area near Karijini to separate heavy and light vehicles This funding is a ‘move in the right direction’ for our industry to help improve the health and safety of our WA truckies.

The TWU is grateful for the ongoing support of Senator Glenn Sterle and his efforts to improve WA truck bays. Further the TWU has secured a commitment from the Government that it will consult with our TWU members along with the WRF and LRTAWA to make sure there are ongoing improvements for the safety and health of transport workers especially long-distance drivers to ensure the industry continues to deliver and is sustainable into the future.

WORK IN TRANSPORT? PROTECT YOURSELF! JOIN YOUR UNION

🌐🌐🌐 www.twuwa.org.au

🗨🗨🗨 www.facebook.com/twuwa

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📞📞📞 1800 657 477 ✉ info@twuwa.org.au

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Transport Workers Union - for the people who carry Australia

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Our Heavy Vehicle Helpdesk is available 7 days a week.

Talk to us about: Permits

Accreditation

OSOM movements

Route Assessments

Trafic Escort bookings

Compliance

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 1 WATM • March 2021

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

Productivity post-election is vital for our industry

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s the 2021 election draws nearer it is good timing for us to think about how we want the transport industry to evolve in the next four years, rural transport in particular. In other words what transport policies would we like to see from our major parties as they pitch for our support?

At our conference last year, I highlighted an often- expressed view from our members that it should not be necessary to break the law in order to compete.

Most of the complaints relate to an uneven playing field as a result of inequitable access and compliance. Road access goes hand in hand with productivity and efficiency. It is important that the policy makers understand this nexus and they must insist that access decisions are equitable and facilitate connection from pick up to destination such as depots, feedlots, abattoirs, hook-up areas.

Transporters need the ability to deliver and remove product from farms on a network that does not have breaks in it and

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WATM • March 2021

does not require trucks to take the long way round to get to the destination. Importantly we need a commitment that where there is an obstacle to a connected network, investment is made in overcoming it.

Furthermore, it is critical that the government of the day takes responsibility for an efficient freight network at the micro level and works to overcome barriers regardless of who owns the asset. Avoiding an issue because the road is a local government responsibility is not acceptable if we genuinely want efficient freight.

The current situation with Treeton Road North in Cowaramup is a classic example of a well-known barrier to productivity that the regulators seem reluctant to overcome.

Treeton Road North is a 4.5km section of road that was suddenly removed from the network at the request of the Shire due to alleged road geometry issues. As a result transporters delivering cattle to Western Meat Processors have to stop prior to the road and break up into a smaller

combination and ferry livestock in. This restriction also severed connectivity of the route between feedlots and the abattoir with the alternative route being 35km further, taking 40 minutes longer and going straight through the Town of Cowaramup.

Road train access down Greenmount Hill is another example. Whilst the current trial is a step in the right direction, there is a good deal of scepticism in the industry about the how the trial will be assessed and the likelihood of access being granted permanently. It is important with this trial, as with any trials, that there is open and transparent assessment against objective criteria, so industry has confidence in the final decision.

Although it has unfortunately become a political football, we continue to support the construction of Roe 8 and 9 as being the best option to deliver an efficient and safe freight network to Fremantle Port or even a replacement port in Kwinana. Whichever party is successful at the March election needs to

revitalise the Roe Highway freight route.

Another item on the desired policy list is to protect the safety and productivity of specific freight corridors. Key criteria could be applied that avoids the tension between freight and non-freight traffic. For example the use of roundabouts should be reviewed, access to bicycles should be denied, advance warning lights erected before freight route traffic lights and residential and commercial buildings should not be allowed to the edge of the route.

The RAV network itself should be modernised. Transporters make large investments in equipment with the latest safety features and they should get commercial benefit from the investment.

To start the reform process the RAV levels should be condensed. For example, Network 3 and 4 should be combined and Networks 5 and 6 should be combined.

And finally, one of my personal bugbears – facilities for drivers. Congratulations to the current government for facilitating a joint approach to identifying areas of need and a funding submission agreed by the LRTAWA, Western Roads and The Transport Workers Union together with Main Roads. Similarly, the Liberal Party deserves credit for announcing a specific allocation towards driver facilities.

However, we need to keep the impetus for this project and ensure that funding flows to construction of maintenance of toilets and showers for drivers throughout our road network, not just in the populated areas. This cannot be a flash in the pan if we expect to recruit Millennials, Generation Z and the generations to follow, as well as more females. We know they will never accept the conditions that currently exist nor should they.

We have heard many times during the pandemic how essential our freight and logistics industry is. The next four years will be an ideal opportunity to work with industry to help it become as efficient as possible and in doing so demonstrate to the community how valued freight and logistics is.

When it comes to working with industry it is very important that smaller operators through their representative groups have input to decisions. Large corporate entities and cooperatives with a seat at the table do not always understand the industry imperatives at a local level and this is often the missing piece in the productivity puzzle.

Whatever the outcome on the 13th March I look forward to working with the new government and its ministers on behalf of rural transport.

SO WHAT ARE THE PARTIES PROMISING US?

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ith all the major parties campaigning for the March 13th election, close on $10 billion of promises have been made collectively for WA. Most of the pledges have ramifications for all of WA; one of the biggest being the Liberal Party's plan for the state to reach net zero emissions by 2030 and shut down coal-fired power stations by 2025.

The WA Labor Partie's focus remains on delivering local jobs and the Premier Mark McGowan recently hit the regions pledging a raft of commitments for the Mid-West, Kimberly and Pilbara. As covered in this edition, the WA Labor Party has committed up to $6.1 million to train more West Australians in heavy vehicle driving with a new pilot training program that is a ‘first’ for Australia to address the skill shortages in the transport industry.

The WA Labor Party has also put a major focus on upgrading rest areas for heavy vehicle drivers with a $14 million package to commence from June 2021 on 17 initial locations, subject to approval from the Commonwealth Government.

would also commit $40 million towards building overtaking lanes and $20 million to improve roadside amenities for truck drivers.

Ms Mettam said the Liberals’ commitment to building more truck stops with proper toilet, shower and rest facilities was important in addressing the incidence of fatigue as a major factor in road accidents.

The Liberals will also allocate $1 million to examine future investment opportunities for developing transport intermodal and innovation Hubs at Muchea, Bunbury and Kalgoorlie.

The Liberals have underlined their commitment to build Roe 8 & 9.

Zak Kirkup said, “Roe 8 & 9 are critical missing links in Perth’s long-planned highway system.

The Liberals will always fight for Roe 8 & 9 because of the real community benefits, like getting 74,000 cars and 7,000 trucks off our local roads every day to create a safer, smarter today and a brighter, better tomorrow. This major infrastructure project will create up to 10,000 jobs and is a key part of

With all the major parties campaigning for the March 13th election, close on $10 billion of promises has been made collectively for WA The WA Liberals have committed to invest $900 million in a WA regional roads safety blitz focused on saving lives and creating jobs.

Opposition leader Zak Kirkup said, “The Liberals will fast-track the program to ensure the remaining $445 million in upgrades to improve more than 17,000km of regional roads will be completed.

Shadow Transport Minister Libby Mettam said the Liberals

the Liberals’ plan to create 200,000 new jobs over the next five years.”

Libby Mettam said “There’s $1.2 billion in Federal funding available right now to build Roe 8 & 9, and create thousands of WA jobs. Our community wants and needs Roe 8 & 9. Independent research shows the overwhelming majority – 70% of the people who actually live in our southern suburbs – want Roe 8 & 9 built.”

WATM • March 2021

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TRANSPORT

magazine

VOLUME 27 | NUMBER 2

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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.

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oodness me, what a start to the New Year. We thought it could not get worse than last year then fires, floods, COVID-19 Lockdowns all within the same week.

For this little publisher who works from home in Henley Brook, I watched as everyone around me evacuated their livestock during the Wooroloo Fire which left only two of us (both women would you figure) second guessing ourselves as to whether we should have joined the panic brigade as well. Luckily, the wind was blowing away from us so we were safe, but the stress of the whole thing is still with me.

As always, when there is a crisis Western Australians pull together and help each other and I am so proud of everyone who put their businesses on hold to help rescue and feed the livestock affected by the fires. In this edition we

pay tribute to some of those people in our industry – Peter ‘Warby’ Warburton and the LRTAWA, Paul Ramsay from Ramsay’s Horse Transport, Argonaut, Harvey Hay Run… there are so many.

Over the Christmas break I finally got hooked up to the NBN and to that end, the magazine no longer has a landline number.

If anyone wants to talk to me please call 0430 153 273.

In this edition we look at the upcoming WA Election, the new Driver Training Program, some much needed upgrades for WA rest areas, a deadly dog disease that could affect drivers who take their four legged friends with them and more.

Welcome to the new subscribers, thank you as always to everyone for your support.

Best,

Karen

CONTENTS 2............................................... Productivity post-election is vital for our industry 3............................................... So what are the parties promising us?

10............................................ Deadly dog disease spread by brown tick 11............................................... Do you know what to do when it’s Bigger Than You? 12............................................ $14 million to deliver rest area upgrades for WA 14............................................ WRF – Driver Training Program 15............................................ Further support for the WA Transport Industry 16............................................ More than $250 million of regional road upgrades 17............................................. Paul Ramsay – A hero in our midst 18............................................ Truck and Machinery predictions for 2021 19............................................ $50K donation from Argonaut 20.......................................... Contract awarded for gateway in Perth’s eastern suburbs

Every Month 6............................................... Questions to the WA State Government 8............................................... Fair Go for Owner Drivers 13............................................ Bird’s Eye View 21............................................ HCVC – Mack Muster 24.......................................... WA Transport History

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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 I am the HR/HSEQ Manager for MGM Bulk, a transport company that has branches across WA. I am also the Chair of PIRSA (Pilbara Industry Road Safety Alliance). I am sending you this question as the PIRSA Chair.

PIRSA is an alliance formed by industry to improve road safety across the Pilbara Region. One of the items on our agenda is the cattle issue that is currently present on Great Northern Highway (GNH). This has resulted in many incidents for all hauliers (and I imagine the public) who use this road with at least one of which resulted in a fatality. Can we please have some leadership from the Minister and Main Roads regarding animal hazards on roads in WA’s pastoral regions.

In April 2020 the WA Transport Magazine published an article by Main Roads that detailed the Pastoral Animal Hazard Advisory Group convened by them to influence improved outcomes in this area. In the article Brett Belstead, Director of Network Management says, “We are, and will continue working with pastoralists, and other key stakeholders to undertake research and identify opportunities to combat this issue.”

This Advisory Group has not seen any progress in the reduction of this hazard. In fact it came to my attention in a social media post by ABC Kimberley on 2 July 2020, that the group had been put on the backburner due to the COVID-19 pandemic and that the Minister will be seeking further advice before the working group is re-established.

Way back on the 31 May 2011 there was an inaugural meeting of the group ‘Fencing Road Reserve in Pastoral Regions Main Roads/ PGA and Stakeholders’. This is evidential of an issue that has spanned a minimum of 10 years ago continuing to pose a threat to property and lives. In fact, a haulier operating out of Port Hedland experienced the loss of life to one of its operators due to a cow strike incident last year, and still nothing has changed and no progress has been made.

Main Roads representatives provide information at our alliance meetings and have advised they are continuing to negotiate with Pastoralists regarding fencing. However they are making little progress and there is still a lot of unfenced area along Great Northern Highway and cattle are still a major hazard on the roads.

This needs to be addressed before we lose more lives.

I have reached out to the Cattleman’s Association, however they were not able to attend one of our meetings to enable us to work together on a solution to this matter.

This situation seriously needs some attention. Can you please tell me what Main Roads are actively doing to address this. ~ Niomi Higgs, Chair – Pilbara Industry Road Safety Alliance 6

WATM • March 2021

Give animals a ‘brake’ SLOW DOWN AT DUSK AND DAWN You might know the road like the back of your hand, but you don’t know when an animal might suddenly appear in front of your car. Remember to give animals a ‘brake’ and slow down at dusk and dawn. Livestock collisions can be fatal for drivers, passengers and animals.

To find out more, or to report a hazard, visit mainroads.wa.gov.au or call 138 138 LIVESTOCK COLLISIONS CAN BE FATAL

Response from Main Road’s Spokesperson Main Roads’ Animal Hazard Mitigation Program was established in 2013 to target sections of the state road network with a high animal collision risk.

The program developed a number of strategies to improve driver safety and awareness including installing grids on road reserve fence-lines, moving watering points further back from the road-side, installing one way cattle gates, improving Livestock Warning Signage and fencing standards along road reserves and assisting funding new and replacement fencing where it’s deemed a "hot spot".

To continue this important work and reduce the number of animal strike crashes, Main Roads joined forces with members from a number of agencies (Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development; Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions; RAC; Road Safety Commission; Pastoral Lands Board; Pastoralists and Graziers Association; Western Australian Local Government Association and WA Police Force) in 2018 to

More than $8 million has been spent in mitigation works since 2014 and has led to a 23% reduction in crashes involving pastoral animals form the Pastoral Animal Hazard Advisory Group (PAHAG).

The PAHAG have met six times since its formation to analyse and review the impacts of pastoral fencing, discuss animal hazard mitigation measures in pastoral areas, explore supplementary and alternative approaches to animal hazard mitigation, report on achievements and provide a forum for discussion between key stakeholders.

Key achievements of the group to date include: Undertaking significant analysis of crash and animal strike data to identify hotspots within pastoral regions and quantify the effects fencing has had on the level of crashes and animal strikes; and The development of an education campaign surrounding stray livestock on roads in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Mid-West and Goldfields Esperance regions.

While the Group and education campaign was postponed in line with advice from the Health Department, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, work has been continuing behind the scenes.

The report, which was provided to the Minister for Transport in March 2020, indicated that the overall number of crashes involving pastoral animals reduced by 23 percent (comparison data 2006-

2010 and 2014-2018), and the severity of the crashes that did occur was less.

A targeted education campaign entitled ‘Give Animals a Brake’ was launched in November 2020 across the Kimberley, Pilbara, Mid-West Gascoyne and Goldfields Esperance regions, designed to inform road users - including local residents, visitors, tourists and mine site workers, of the associated risks of animal crashes.

Main Roads has also continued to contact pastoralists in known hot spots during this time, to provide them with information and advise of them of State assistance available with regards to fencing solutions. This has resulted in a number of new fencing agreements at known hotspots with the actual fencing installation ongoing.

More than $8 million has been spent in mitigation works since 2014 and has led to a 23% reduction in crashes involving pastoral animals (comparison data 2006-2010 and 2014-2018). Funds are available to continue the program into the future with an expectation of additional fencing and other mitigations measures at known hotspots that should continue the downward trend in crash numbers.

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WATM • March 2021

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

TIME FOR A CHANGE

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elcome to a new year. At this time of each year it is good to reflect on the highs and lows of the previous year and hope that the New Year will be better. In the transport industry I do not believe that there were many highs in the previous year that we would want to remember. If you survived the year then that is probably a good outcome.

Perhaps one of my highlights was meeting up with Senator Glen Sterle as I put my thoughts to him as he conducted a Senate Inquiry into the problems within the transport industry.

Several other people associated with the transport industry also made submissions so hopefully our efforts will bring about a better future for truck drivers. At least many submissions were made by transport operators who know first-hand our problems after spending years of time on the road.

Hopefully the Government will act on these issues and introduce the necessary changes.

Over the past years I have constantly written about problems and issues within the transport industry and the treatment of truck drivers from big greedy companies.

I know that I am repeating myself but I really feel very strongly annoyed that truck drivers are out there working exceedingly hard under extreme conditions for very little reward.

The final insult is as truck drivers get to 8

WATM • March 2021

retiring age they have very little in the way of savings and superannuation and usually in poor health the future is bleak as they finish their working life.

The transport industry is full of problems and while Government and Transport Associations make token efforts to fix the issues no one listens to the truck driver.

The transport industry is full of problems and while Government and Transport Associations make token efforts to fix the issues no one listens to the truck driver We do not want to drive long hours in a state of fatigue but the answer seems to be to try and keep us awake and alert for up to fourteen hours a day, for days on end. Very few other occupations require their workers to work such long hours.

Many people do not believe the

industry has problems because every day the supermarket shelves are full, the service stations always have fuel and any commodity we desire is available.

Truck drivers are ‘quiet achievers’ providing a necessary service to the community. Nobody wants to address the pressures that truck drivers have to put up with like the low rates of pay that forces us to work harder and faster for less.

Truck drivers are definitely at the ‘bottom’ of the supply chain yet we do most of the work.

The only other industry I can think of that work huge hours for very little return are our farmers.

You only have to go back to the disgraceful saga when farmers were paid a pittance for their milk by the large food chains. There seems to be a common thread here where hard working people are exploited and underpaid by multinational greedy corporations.

Maybe this year will be the year when someone will listen to the voice of the truck driver and solve our problems.

Full marks must go to the organisers of the Mack Muster held at the end of last year at Byford. A great event. The trucks on show were outstanding and they show how passionate our truck drivers are with such outstanding trucks.

Keep it safe, Ray Pratt.

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9

News

Deadly dog disease spread by brown dog tick on the move

Biggest ever South-West road project now underway

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o all you truck drivers that take your four legged friends with you, please be aware that a quick spreading and deadly dog disease is escalating fast across northern Australia and ticks infected with the deadly bacteria have been discovered in northern South Australia. Experts say it is only a matter of time before every dog in Australia is at risk.

In little more than six months, the common brown dog tick has become infected with the deadly dog disease ehrlichiosis and hundreds of dogs have already died in Western Australia and the Northern Territory from it.

Professor Peter Irwin, principal of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Perth's Murdoch University, said, "This is a disaster which is happening right now, it has got in and there's no way to get it out again."

Western Australia has movement conditions on dogs moving out of the Kimberley region and conditions on dogs entering southern WA from the Northern Territory. Owners of infected dogs in the NT have been advised not to move them out of the area.

Working dogs, wild dogs, domestic dogs can all fall victim to this highly infectious disease.

It is not breed specific, the most vulnerable would be those dogs with no

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WATM • March 2021

Investing in well-planned transport projects will keep the Bunbury region moving and boost its status as a major economic regional centre tick control, but even that is no guarantee.

The bacteria ehrlichia canis was first detected at Halls Creek and Kununurra in the WA back in May and was then found in Katherine NT in June.

Ehrlichiosis is now a nationally notifiable disease. Symptoms seem to vary considerably among dogs and typically include fever, lethargy, enlarged lymph nodes, loss of appetite, discharge from eyes and nose, weight loss, anaemia and bleeding disorders and if not treated – death.

It is advised to help prevent the disease that dog owners should maintain an effective tick control program, avoid taking dogs into tick-infested areas where possible and inspect your dog regularly for ticks and if you suspect anything – take them to the vet immediately.

ork on the biggest South-West road infrastructure project, the Bunbury Outer Ring Road, kicked off in February.

The South West Gateway Alliance, comprising Acciona, NRW Contracting, MACA Civil, AECOM and Aurecon, together with Main Roads, will build the 27-kilometre, four-lane, highstandard road from Forrest Highway near Australind to the Bussell Highway, south of Bunbury.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said once complete, the project would improve freight capacity, efficiency and productivity across the region.

"Well-planned infrastructure projects such as the Bunbury Outer Ring Road are vital for the Bunbury area," the Deputy Prime Minister said.

"The project has been planned for a number of years, recognising the significance of delivering vital infrastructure to provide a safer and more efficient road system for the South West of Western Australia.

"Bunbury Outer Ring Road will provide relief for local residents by removing freight and regional traffic from local roads while maintaining easy access to Bunbury and other regional destinations.

"Investing in well-planned transport projects will keep the Bunbury region moving and boost its status as a major economic regional centre - I'm pleased to see this project get underway.

Premier of Western Australia Mark McGowan said the $852 million road project was the biggest ever undertaken in the South-West.

"The Bunbury Outer Ring Road will generate significant economic and employment opportunities," the Premier said.

The $852 million Bunbury Outer Ring Road project is jointly funded by the Australian Government ($681.6 million) and Western Australian Government ($170.4 million) .

News

Do you know what to do when it’s #BiggerThanYou?

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oad transport makes a vital contribution to WA’s economy and, with our remote and rugged landscape, there’s often no option other than to move very large items by road.

Oversize and overmass (OSOM) vehicles and road trains are built to transport very large loads on rural roads. They are usually bigger, slower and wider than the average vehicle and, for many road users, it can be daunting sharing the road with them.

Over the last 12 months, travel restrictions imposed by COVID-19 have led to a significant increase in traffic on our regional roads. Statistics from Main Roads’ Mid-West Gascoyne region indicate that traffic consisting of cars towing a caravan has increased by 140 per cent on the Brand Highway compared to the same

time last year, and 150 per cent on North West Coastal Highway. Cars have increased by 105 per cent on Minilya Exmouth Road and by more than 50 per cent on North West Coastal Highway, Shark Bay Road and Northampton Kalbarri Road.

The increase in traffic has also led to more industry feedback regarding ‘near miss’ incidents, along with reports of road users not knowing what Heavy Vehicle Pilots or Traffic Escort Wardens are, or

what they’re employed to do.

With this in mind, Main Roads recently launched its ‘Know what to do when it’s #BiggerThanYou’ education campaign to help road users understand the role of Pilots and Wardens, and to help drive a change in behaviour.

Main Roads Director of Heavy Vehicle Services, Michael Buba, says that there are four simple steps road users should follow when they encounter a load which is ‘bigger, wider or slower than you’.

“If you come across an oversize vehicle traveling towards you, we ask that you slow down, move left, prepare to stop and follow the direction given to you by the Pilot or Warden.

“Pilots and Wardens are there to help you safely navigate the oversize load ahead – and they have the same powers as WA Police to direct you around the load”.

These four steps are prominently featured in the new education campaign currently running on radio and TV across WA, and supported by social media.

“By raising awareness of OSOM vehicles, and of what road users should do when they’re faced with oversize vehicles on their journey, we are actively working to help reduce the number of incidents on our roads” Mr Buba said.

To read more about the campaign or, to download the campaign materials, visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/travelinformation/driving-in-wa/safety/drivingwith-trucks-and-oversize-vehicles/

Traffic consisting of cars towing a caravan has increased by 140 per cent on the Brand Highway compared to the same time last year, and 150 per cent on North West Coastal Highway

WATM • March 2021

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News

Drug-affected Perth truck driver jailed for manslaughter

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ot a headline that we want to read, and sadly one that reflects on the WA Transport industry in the eyes of the public.

With methamphetamine in his system, Perth truck driver David West, 48, ran a red light and smashed into a mother-of-three’s

Mitsubishi Magna as she turned at a green light onto Tonkin Highway from Armadale Road in Forrestdale on April 15th, 2019.

Moira Dunstall, 55, was killed when his 40-tonne truck hit her.

After pleading guilty to manslaughter,

$14 million to deliver rest area upgrades for heavy vehicle drivers in regional WA

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he State Government is working with the transport industry to identify and prioritise upgrades to rest area facilities in regional Western Australia, as well as minor roads upgrades.

The industry working group has identified 17 initial locations for improvements, costing $14 million with works to start in June 2021, subject to approval by the Commonwealth Government.

The program of improvements was determined by a working group involving Main Roads WA and peak industry bodies including the Transport Workers' Union, the Western Roads Federation and the Livestock and Rural Transport Association of WA. Key works identified include: • Provision of ablution facilities at ten locations on key freight routes, near Bunbury, Northam, Port Hedland, Northampton, Exmouth, Wubin and Marble Bar (more than $2 million); • Expansion of the Newman road train assembly area and new ablution facilities ($6 million); • Sealing of existing gravel parking near Auski roadhouse ($3.2 million); • Sealing and extension of parking at Leonora and provision of toilet facilities

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WATM • March 2021

($1.5 million); and • Sealing of an existing parking area near Karijini to separate heavy and light vehicles ($950,000).

The group will continue identifying projects on key regional routes that would benefit from the program, which is jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments.

WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "Freight drivers provide an essential service and we need to ensure we have the amenities and facilities available in regional WA these workers deserve.

"I commend the efforts of the working group and the contributions from key industry organisations, and am looking forward to working with the industry group and Commonwealth Government on delivering these upgrades.

"In addition to identifying further rest area improvements, the working group will continue look at opportunities to involve local government and private companies to help broaden the benefits of this funding initiative as well as better use of technology to assist in the management and utilisation of these rest area facilities."

West was sentenced to six years and nine months in jail. He will be eligible for parole after serving four years and nine months.

Fatigued due to consuming meth two days earlier and suffering from an undiagnosed sleep apnoea condition, West failed to slow his truck as he approached the intersection, despite amber lights flashing 100 metres before the traffic lights.

Travelling between 80 to 100 kilometres per hour, he drove through a traffic light three to five seconds after it had turned red and Ms Dunstall’s car was dragged for 150 metres and killed her instantly.

With a criminal history revealing previous convictions for drunk-driving, dangerous driving and possessing methamphetamine with intent to supply, Supreme Court of Western Australia Justice Paul Tottle, while recognising West

The community is entitled to expect that those charged with driving such heavy loads are free of any risk that their driving be incapacitated by drug use was remorseful over the crash, said truck drivers had a responsibility to drive safely, especially on suburban roads.

“You started using methylamphetamine when you were 20 years old,” he said.

“You used the drug to stay alert during shifts as a long-haul truck driver.

You have struggled with your use of methylamphetamine since this time, describing your use as 'on-and-off'.

“The community is entitled to expect that those charged with driving such heavy loads are free of any risk that their driving be incapacitated by drug use.”

Justice Tottle summarised the grief suffered by Ms Dunstall’s family, including her husband and three children.

“She was in the prime of her life. She had much to look forward to,” he said.

“She was married to David and in late 2019, they were due to celebrate 35 years of marriage.

"There is no summary that can be given that would adequately express the many ways in which this family has suffered as a result of losing the woman who was the rock on which her family was built.”

Over to you BIRDS EYE VIEW by Carol Messenger

BECAUSE WE ARE WEST AUSTRALIANS AND THAT'S WHAT WE DO Image: Cameron Winsor

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rophetic words from a man that not only talks the talk but walks the walk.

West Australian truckie, Peter ‘Warby’ Warburton from Warby’s Transport was the man behind the recent ‘Wooroloo Hay Run’ that assisted stock owners provide food for their animals following the devastating bushfires that swept through the areas to the East and North East of Perth in February.

I am sure that everyone is aware of the Hay runs to assist drought affected farmers in the Eastern states - well Peter has been involved in a couple of those too - delivering two loads to Cobar in NSW and two loads from Esperance to Meekathara for our own drought affected farmers. So when those stock owners affected by the Wooroloo fires lost so much to the fires it seemed only natural to him to step up again and help out in the way he knew best.

Peter and his cousin Evan from Mooterdine Transport got onto SnapChat and WhatsApp and put the call out for help. Within a short time the offers came flooding in from local farmers and hay exporters from Newdegate, Kojonup, Wandering, Pumphreys Bridge, Cuballing, Narrogin, Williams, Bridgetown, Wagin, Northam and Lake Grace pledging to donate much needed hay.

In total, 621 bales of fodder that needed 14 B doubles loaded to the brim resulted with local farmers and transport companies putting up their hands to load it and transport to those in need. Behind the scenes, the LRTAWA and Farmers across Borders helped to organise this mammoth task.

To the cheers at the ‘send-off’ the trucks left Pingelly on Sunday 7th February to travel up through Brookton, Beverley and up to the Lakes where the BP provided the drivers with coffee and muffins before they continued on with their police escort into the fire region near Wooroloo.

So many people stepped up to help during the fires, personally and many businesses and for this hay run the good people at Wandering Café provided lunch for the transporters and the Peterson family and Karen and Dusty from EASE WA helped to organise the local distribution of the hay.

Luckily most of the fuel for the trucks was donated, but for the drivers who gave up their weekend and used their trucks – we give you a huge thumbs up and thank you.

I cannot imagine the pain and devastation of coming home to find nothing except a pile of ash. Absolutely

everything – belongings, keepsakes and memories all reduced to nothing. On top of that – trying to find somewhere to house your family, clothe and feed them. This area had a huge amount of stock, many horses and the anxiety for those whose stock had either perished or were missing, or owners were not able to check on them is unimaginable. For those who survived, then came the worry of feeding them.

Thanks to Peter, Evan and the other 12 drivers they have been given a reprieve.

In Peter’s words, “It's only a band aid solution – but that band aid solution will give fire affected farmers around two weeks of feed for their stock. Two weeks of one less worry and two weeks to try and find a more permanent solution”.

There were many heroes that came to light in this terrible bushfire that resulted in the loss of 86 homes, countless sheds, vehicles, livestock, pets and thousands and thousands of acres of pasture. The fire fighters, emergency workers and the charity support staff come to mind but Warby’s band of merry men rank up there with the best of them.

Peter shrugs off any thanks - he says, “Because we are West Australians and that's what we do”.

WATM • March 2021

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Over to you WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

DRIVER TRAINING PROGRAM

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he WA Government’s announcement of $6.1 million for a driver training program was the culmination of nearly six months work by the WA Transport industry.

Although Western Roads Federation led the campaign, we worked closely with the Livestock and Rural Transporters Association and the TWU. The aim is to train 1,000 HR and MC drivers into the WA industry.

The course has been developed by the industry and brings together the licensing and qualifications (load restraint etc.) into one program BUT importantly, the program focuses heavily on giving students mentoring by experienced drivers, from on-road coaching, to basic maintenance, reversing and the myriad of other things a skilled truck driver needs to know or be able to do.

The program will be rolled out around the state in different regional locations, the details of which are being worked through.

With a booming mining and resources sector, record spend on road infrastructure projects and increasing demand from the online delivery market the demand for skilled truck drivers and operations staff has been never been higher.

Next Objective This leads to the next training objective and that is addressing the skills shortage for mechanics and operations staff. Western Roads Federation has already developed a plan for this and will be progressing that in due course.

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WATM • March 2021

WHAT ELSE COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG?

Despite all these challenges, the more than 30,000 people in wa’s transport and logistics industry were able to adapt and find solutions Not even Shakespeare; the world’s most celebrated dramatist could have conceived a plot as complex as that which faced WA’s transport and logistics industry during the first week of February.

Starting on Sunday 31st January with panic buying that stripped many supermarkets in the Perth and SW Regions.

As many of you are aware a substantial percent of WA’s grocery items come from the East.

BUT re-supplying from the east was challenged by the: • On-going coastal shipping disruption that had meant the east-west freight trains were already running at capacity; and • Plus the substantially reduced air freight capacity due to the loss of most of our domestic air services.

AND just to make it more interesting, the Perth Hills bushfires cut the east-west rail services for nearly a week.

And just in case the industry didn’t feel it was being challenged enough, we had: • The Perth-Peel and South West regions go into lock down, creating some degree

of confusion as to what the rules for freight movement actually were and • A tropical low decided to dump on the NW Highway at Carnarvon severing the highway in multiple places.

Despite all these challenges, the more than 30,000 people in WA’s transport and logistics industry were able to adapt and find solutions.

It truly is a testament to the professionalism and pragmatism that are the trademarks of our industry’s people, whether in road, rail, air, or sea transport.

With only minor disruptions supermarkets were re-stocked; businesses, manufacturers and mines continued to be supplied and outputs taken to markets or ports, online shopping delivery sustained, and waste collected plus so much more.

A Livestock and Rural Transport WA committee member even found the time to organise a hay run to supply Bushfire impacted farmers.

So, while the whole State was preoccupied, WA's transport and logistics operators were facing many simultaneous challenges from all angles. The fact that WA still operated smoothly during this time is a true testament to our transport and logistics industry professionals - WA’s quiet achievers."

COLLABORATION DRIVES $20 MILLION INVESTMENT INTO INDUSTRY The announcement by the WA Government of the $6.1 million for Driver Training and the $14 million for rest areas is proof that when the industry works together we can get results.

The TWU, the Livestock and Rural Transporters Association WA and ourselves have worked together to push for these outcomes.

We don’t always have to agree with each other, but when we have common cause we are far more effective in getting results for the industry when we work together.

Further support for the WA transport industry

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fter extensive industry consultation, the McGowan Government is committing up to $6.1 million to train more Western Australians in heavy vehicle driving.

The job-ready Heavy Vehicle Driving Operations Skill Set and driver training will train an estimated 1,000 skilled workers needed by the transport industry to avoid skill shortages.

The McGowan Government will remove barriers to entry in Heavy Rigid (HR), Heavy Combination (HC) or MultiCombination (MC) heavy vehicle driving through both theoretical and hands-on practical truck driver training.

The Transport portfolio will provide targeted funding for delivery of industry mentoring for program graduates, to be co-ordinated by Western Roads Federation, which will be crucial for smaller transport companies without the capacity to provide on-the-job training.

The Heavy Vehicle Driving Operations Skill Set will be delivered in Perth's northeastern suburbs by Central Regional TAFE and is an expansion of the Heavy Haulage Driving Operations Skill Set being delivered in Collie, which will transition to the new program.

The new program has been modified to provide students with more of the practical skills needed by industry, including on-road experience.

To be responsive to industry need, the short course has been developed to have a strong focus on practical skills and will be an Australian first.

Western Roads Federation has been advising the State Government on issues affecting the industry, and has been instrumental in the development of the expanded skill set to address unprecedented skilled shortages.

The aim of the pilot is to increase skilled

workers in this essential service but also give existing workers the opportunity to upskill to more complex combination heavy vehicle driving, increasing industry productivity and safety.

The course will run for just over six weeks, with the first intake in the metropolitan area expected to commence in March. Regional locations are also in development.

The formal training component of the course will be free for job seekers and people under 25.

A small contribution will be required for participation in separate practical driving lessons, which will accompany the training.

Course participants will get a credit toward the Certificate III in Driving Operations traineeship and a leg up to complete the full qualification.

For more information, visit www. jobsandskills.wa.gov.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 • March 2021

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News

More than $250 million of regional road upgrades for WA

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ore than $250 million of road safety upgrades will be rolled out across approximately 4,000 kilometres of regional Western Australian roads this financial year, reducing the risk of run-off-road crashes and supporting local jobs.

Funded through the Regional Road Safety Program, low cost treatments such as sealing existing unsealed road shoulders and installing audible edge or centre lines to warn drivers who veer over the white line, will be delivered across the State.

The Regional Road Safety Program is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Western Australian Governments, with an initial $100 million of works underway already, and another $158 million allocated to be spent by the end of this financial year.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said

the Australian Government had allocated billions of dollars to road improvements across regional Australia.

"This funding will be rolled out on a 'use it or lose it basis', which means the delivery of life-saving upgrades to regional roads across Western Australia is on the horizon.

The 'use it or lose it' provisions require States and Territories to use their notionally allocated funds within a timeframe, or the funds can be reallocated to projects in other jurisdictions.

Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan said the program would roll out more potential lifesaving treatments on up to 7,000 kilometres of roads across regional Western Australia.

"This tranche of funding will provide much needed upgrades to key roads all across our State from the Kimberley to the Great Southern, supporting local jobs and

NHVR- sanctioned drones patrolling highways

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s revealed in a recent tender, the NHVR has called for bids from suppliers Australia wide to provide ‘target or reconnaissance’ drones, and other Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera technology to facilitate the monitoring and interception of high-risk heavy vehicles, operators and journeys.

It is envisaged that the drones will soon be patrolling highways within the NHVR jurisdictions to help the regulator monitor ‘high risk’ truck movements.

In the tender outline, the NHVR said the mobile technology is to be used on a trial 16

WATM • March 2021

basis to complement the fixed National Safety Camera Network (NSCN).

It is anticipated that these cameras will be rolled out by the middle of 2021 for an initial trial period of three months.

The initial trial will include two trailermounted cameras, two vehicle-mounted cameras and one drone camera, across the NHVR’s Southern Operations region – including the ACT, South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria, said a NHVR spokesperson.

“These cameras will assist NHVR’s officers in undertaking an intelligence-

providing a much-needed economic boost to the regions."

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said regional roads were vital to the economyshaping work of the State's freight fleet.

"From Western Australia's world-class wool to the thriving iron-ore exports, local truckies work hard travelling the regional road network to keep the economy ticking along and businesses running by getting goods to markets," Assistant Minister Buchholz said.

Western Australian Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said work on the 34 projects funded by the $100 million were already underway with another 62 projects, worth $158 million to get off the ground.

Key projects funded through this tranche include more than $8 million for upgrades to Great Northern Highway, more than $7 million for North West Coastal Highway and more than $5 million for upgrades to Albany Highway in Wagin.

The $455 million commitment to improve road safety across the State is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments. .

ATA Charges Survey

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he ATA is looking for your insights about truck charges, the costs you can pass on to your customers and how easy or hard it is to change your freight rates.

Its part of the work they are doing to prepare the industry’s response to the NRTC’s heavy vehicle charges consultation report which looks at: • reducing the fuel tax credits you can claim by 0.6 cents per litre and • increasing the national roads component of truck and trailer registration charges by 2.5 per cent, in the states that apply the national charges.

The survey takes less than 10 minutes is anonymous and you could win $50 gift card. Go to: www. surveymonkey.com/r/3XJM38H

led and risk-based approach to safety by ensuring enforcement efforts target the greatest safety risks.

“Smarter camera technology will also assist in identifying operators who are doing the right thing, who can then expect to be less regularly intercepted by the NHVR.”

News

Search starts for Tonkin Highway Extension contractor

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PAUL RAMSAY: A HERO IN OUR MIDST I

t is just mind blowing how community and business came together to assist those affected with the Wooroloo Bush Fire. So many, that this entire magazine could be filled with the names and acts of kindness of West Australians.

From the individuals who have donated anything they could, and are still doing so to the farmers, transporters, stock feeders, hay exporters, animal evacuation points, veterinarians and so many more who generously donated their time and resources free of charge to help those in need who had stock affected by the fire.

The area affected by the fire was the home to many horses.

A true hero in our midst is Paul Ramsay director of WA based Ramsay’s Horse Transport.

When the fires began Paul started receiving calls from his customers who needed their horses to be evacuated and he soon came to realise that there were going to be a great many other people needing his help.

For seven days straight, Paul donated ‘free of charge’ his fleet of trucks and large custom horse trailers and moved in excess of 700 horses.

The evacuated horses were transported to safe locations at Brigadoon, Muchea, Middle Swan and Ascot. They were returned to owners, again free of charge, when it was safe to do so.

Paul said he could not have done this without a huge amount of help he received.

“There are so many people we need to thank that have volunteered their time, offered their stables, donating feed, fuel and so much more. A special thanks to Ian Gladding. You have been an absolute legend with all that's happened. You were first to raise your hand to offer your stables.

You have spent so much time to organise feed for those in need and you did not stop there,” said Paul “A big shout out to all the drivers to which we had six who donated their time and to operators such as Paul Andrews who used his own truck to hook to one of our trailers.

“On top of that, we were donated a lot of feed by Mandurah Stock Feeds, Limerick Farm Meadow Hay and Bruce Avery. We can't thank you enough,” finishes Paul Anyone with experience with horses would understand that what Paul and his team achieved was no easy feat.

he State Government recently hosted an industry workshop, seeking feedback from local contractors on the Tonkin Highway Extension project.

Feedback received from industry will help shape the style of contract in a bid to maximise opportunities for local jobs and contractors, with more than 3,500 jobs expected to be created over the life of the project.

Extending Tonkin Highway from Thomas Road to South Western Highway will provide improved access to growing residential areas like Byford, industrial areas, the airport and the future Outer Harbour.

The preliminary concept for the project is for 14 kilometres of fourlane new dual carriageway road, with other upgrades to include: • a grade separated interchange at Bishop Road; • upgrade of the current intersection at Thomas Road and Tonkin Highway; • new intersections constructed at Orton Road, Mundijong Road and South Western Highway; and • new bridges over freight rail line, Perth to Bunbury passenger rail line and Wright Road.

The last extension of Tonkin Highway to Thomas Road was completed in 2005 and there has been significant population growth in the time since.

The project is jointly funded by the Australian ($404 million) and Western Australian ($101 million) Governments.

Premier Mark McGowan said, “These works will improve safety, provide transport access and new freight connections for the thousands of people living and working in Perth's south-eastern suburbs."

WATM • March 2021

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News

New funding to fast-track approvals for major WA projects could see a BOOM

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ore than $1.6 million will be invested in cutting application wait times for major resource projects, unlocking thousands of jobs and delivering significant economic benefits for Western Australia.

The State Government expects that this funding could assist at least 17 projects currently seeking regulatory approvals. In total, these projects are estimated to create almost 18,300 construction jobs and more than 4,500 operational jobs.

The additional funding will support State Government regulatory authorities in managing a significant increase in applications for key environmental, mining and heritage approvals, related to these major projects.

Resource market trends, such as the expansion of the gold and iron ore sectors due to high commodity prices, and WA's reputation as an attractive and safe destination for resource investment, are driving the surge in applications.

To ensure the growing number of applications does not delay approvals for major projects, the State Government will fund additional surge capacity across the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation including Environmental Protection Authority services, the Department of Planning, Land and Heritage, the Department of Mining, Industry Regulation and Safety, and the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation.

All four authorities have also agreed to work together on a number of new measures that will facilitate better co-ordination and the prioritisation of approvals for major projects across government.

These immediate short term actions have been taken in response to feedback from industry stakeholders, and ensures approvals for major projects will proceed in parallel with longer term regulatory reform.

In total, these projects are estimated to create almost 18,300 construction jobs and more than 4,500 operational jobs

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Truck and Machinery predictions of 2021

tock shortages are tipped to drive a national machinery hire boom in 2021, with demand for excavators skyrocketing.

Leading machinery platform, Machines4U.com.au, hosted more than 154,000 machinery sale listings last financial year and saw a sharp 96.2 per cent increase in enquiries over the initial COVID-19 outbreak period. CEO Steve Krebs tips demand to be even stronger in 2021.

“An inability to import new machinery, equipment and parts in a timely manner from overseas as a result of COVID-19 is driving up demand from Australian businesses and primary producers to hire equipment,” Mr Krebs said.

Mr Krebs anticipates machinery hire will be the biggest growth area in the sector next year as demand peaks and supplies dwindle.

The most in-demand pieces of equipment in 2021 will be: 1. Excavators

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WATM • March 2021

2. CNC metalworking machinery 3. Tractors 4. Panel Saws 5. Semi Trailers 6. Commercial trucks 7. Forklifts 8. Scissor Lifts 9. Scrubbers 10. Conveyors Krebs said stock shortages, combined with a boom in online retailing, the Instant Asset Write Off Scheme has led to a 120 per cent increase in searches for agricultural machinery and a 142 per cent increase in searches for trucks in the past year.

Of the 5.4 million unique visitors to the Machines4U.com.au website, more than 470,000 were specifically searching for trucks to buy. The most popular search – commercial Isuzu trucks, followed by Kenworth semi-trailers.

Pilbara gas project approved

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he State Government has executed agreements to allow Woodside to fill the North West Shelf LNG facilities with gas from the Pluto fields, and to secure domestic gas supplies for Western Australia.

Woodside is building a new onshore pipeline to connect the North West Shelf and Pluto LNG facilities. Construction of the interconnector supports up to 320 construction jobs in the region and optimisation of LNG and domestic gas production across the two sites.

Woodside may produce three million tonnes of LNG at the North West Shelf site over four years with gas from the Pluto fields, with production expected to commence in 2022.

Consistent with the WA Domestic Gas Policy, Woodside has committed to make gas equivalent of 15 per cent of its LNG exports available to the domestic market.

This is in addition to its existing obligations under domestic gas commitment agreements for the North West Shelf and Pluto projects.

Premier Mark McGowan said, "The Pluto Acceleration project helps keep the North West Shelf LNG trains full and clears the way for new LNG export industry development. "These agreements with Woodside reinforce our domestic gas policy and provide certainty for LNG industry investors and domestic gas consumers.

News

$50k donation from Argonaut

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he Harvey Hay Run transporters were another body who stepped up to help during the Wooroloo fires.

A massive 250 tonne of hay valued at $50,000 was donated by leading Perth Broking and Advisory House Argonaut to EASE WA for those affected in fire zone and the team at Harvey Hay Run organised the logistics.

Argonaut’s executive chairman Eddie Rigg purchased the export quality oaten hay in the form of high density square bales from Bernie and Rachel Panizza of Aprelia Farms, who also donated hay themselves, and Harvey Hay run team organised the logistics sending six road trains to collect the massive amount of fodder.

The donation is equivalent to approximately 700 standard size round bales or 17,800 small squares and will assist farmers and properties in the coming weeks whilst in the process of rebuilding.

The hay is being stored under cover at the HHR hardstand at Rosemya in Brunswick and will be transported to affected areas as required.

In addition to the much-needed hay, Argonaut has created a day-long initiative, Brokerage for Bushfire Relief, to raise much-needed funds for the Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund (LMDRF).

Future Fuels T

he transport industry welcomed the release of the Government’s future fuels discussion paper and commitment to delivering a freight energy productivity program said Chair of the ATA David Smith.

“The ATA congratulates the

development, production and viability of low and zero emission heavy vehicle technologies, and that requires targeted government investment and actions to remove barriers that prevent industry from adopting these technologies.

“The Government has identified

We need to accelerate the development, production and viability of low and zero emission heavy vehicle technologies, and that requires targeted government investment Government on recognising the need for a future fuels strategy to address the barriers to the roll out of new vehicle technologies,” Mr Smith said.

“New, low emission transport technologies will not become reality if they are not viable commercial options for trucking operators.

“We need to accelerate the

electric vehicle charging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure as a priority initiative, and the Government has recognised that long-haul trucks will need dedicated charging infrastructure.”

Mr Smith welcomed the Government’s commitment to a $24.5 million Freight Energy Productivity Program.

WATM • March 2021

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News Local Repairers are often well-known and respected workshops in their communities that have a reputation for delivering top-quality repairs for trucks and equipment

Nti expands national authorised repairer network by introducing local repairers

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TI, Australia’s number one transport and logistics insurance specialist, is excited to expand its national Authorised Repairer Network by introducing new Local Repairers.

NTI’s Chief People & Operations Officer, Kerrie Challenor said introducing a new tier of repairers means increased capability to support more customers, to get their businesses back up and running, faster.

“Our addition of Local Repairers, alongside our existing Premium Repairers, answers the demand we’ve seen from customers for smaller, less technical or specialised repair jobs, in nearby locations.

“There are similarities between Premium and Local Repairers – such as automatic authorisation to begin repairs, an annual review to ensure they comply with our stringent criteria, a lifetime guarantee

on repairs, and access to genuine parts thought NTI’s internal parts-purchasing team, just to name a few,” she said.

“The difference is in specialisation and technical expertise. Our Premium Repairers specialise in major mechanical and structural repairs, and vehicle recovery, for heavy vehicles, trailers and equipment, and our research shows that by being part of our network they can get trucks back on the road nine days faster than competitors.

“Local Repairers are often wellknown and respected workshops in their communities that have a reputation for delivering top-quality repairs for trucks and equipment. NTI is proud to support these local businesses.”

Ms Challenor explains that customers will now have even more options when choosing a repairer.

“Our role is to support Australian industry and businesses by providing access to experienced and quality repairers, while also helping to make these repairers more accessible to customers,” she said.

Contract awarded for road gateway in Perth’s eastern suburbs

P

lanning and development is progressing to deliver a $386.5 million project that will create a new, free-flowing gateway into Perth's eastern suburbs.

The Greater Connect consortium comprising Laing O'Rourke, AECOM, and Arcadis has been awarded the contract to deliver the Great Eastern Highway Bypass Interchanges project.

Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, said the project would bust congestion and improve safety for traffic across the Hazelmere and Forrestfield industrial and freight distribution centres.

"This project is receiving $247.25 million of funding from the Morrison Government, part of our $110 billion, ten year infrastructure pipeline.

Western Australian Minister for Transport and Planning, the Hon Rita Saffioti MLA, said procurement for the

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WATM • March 2021

upgrades had been streamlined to boost the State's economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and would support up to 2,700 jobs.

"Drivers from Perth's eastern suburbs and hills would be familiar with peak hour queues at these intersections, and our package of works will vastly improve traffic flow in these areas," Minister Saffioti said.

"Along with creating hundreds of jobs and supporting local businesses, the finished product will provide critical new connections for Perth's transport network.

"This complements a range of other works underway in the area including the new interchange at Kalamunda Road and Roe Highway and upgrades to Tonkin Highway."

Two new major interchanges will be built as part of the project.

The second interchange will replace the current signalised intersection at Roe Highway and Great Eastern Highway Bypass. This will improve safety and traffic flow on a section of road used by more

than 60,000 vehicles per day.

Federal Member for Swan, the Hon Steve Irons MP, said there's further upgrades to be undertaken as part of the Great Eastern Highway Bypass Interchanges project.

"These include upgrading Great Eastern Highway Bypass between the new interchanges and the Lloyd Street connection north of Great Eastern Highway Bypass," Mr Irons said.

"It will also include upgrading parts of Abernethy Road, upgrading Roe Highway between Great Eastern Highway Bypass and Clayton Street, a new bridge over the Helena River completing the extension of Lloyd Street from Clayton Street to Stirling Crescent and new shared paths, including lighting and barriers."

Early works are expected to start mid 2021 and completion is expected by mid-2024 subject to environmental and statutory approvals.

Over to you

By Kevin Toovey

(Above & left) There were many trucks where you went, “Whoa, this is nice”. A good looking B model Mack was parked amongst much newer models including the Mack Superliner 50th year Southern Cross limited edition

Mack Muster a Huge Success

"Who's the Boss" White Road Boss

T

he Mack Muster was held at Quarry Farm on the 29th November to celebrate Mack Trucks 100th year in Australia. The idea was created by the Director of WA Limestone Steve Della Bona and the Director for CTS low loaders Jason Clatworthy who are not alone in enjoying Mack trucks.

There were many fine examples on the display to prove that point on the day and trucks of different makes were also invited so it was not an exclusive event.

Funds raised were donated to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research for Cancer and over 3000 people came through the gate to look at the 140 trucks many of them wearing the mighty Bulldog on the bonnet.

Terry Bates and Kim Martin brought their vehicles for their maiden showing.

Kim’s red Detroit powered Dodge looks good and sounds even better

WATM • March 2021

21

Over to you The All Truck Start Up in the afternoon created a great atmosphere, the air horns got a good work out and there is a special note to some of these big motors. Pictured is Peter Rowling’s Value-Liner.

Below: Valueliners amongst the crowd

Newer Macks in the shade

Volvo G89 still in its working clothes

Above: Old dog with a shed on the back Terry Bates’ yellow and black Pontiac ute is lined up with other HCVC members trucks.

Below & below right: Immaculate Mack Superliners

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WATM • March 2021

Right: Three HCVC members won trophies on the day. Barry’s Superliner won best overall truck its pictured with John Flynn Below: Hills Concrete have two of these big Mack tray tops for delivering their products

Below: Catalano Fleet

Old Kenworth S2

WA Limestone's "Mandrake"

Hazell Bros Volvo "Little Lifter

Right: Mel's "Good Dog" won best vintage Mack and Giulio's Mercedes won best vintage European, they are pictured with their trophies

Mack Superliner "Host of the Canning"

Below & left: This airbrushing artwork on the back of the White Road Boss depicts the Colli family history in the timber industry. The scene includes their sawmill, first house and the Road Boss in its original working clothes. The truck now is an amazing show piece that comes out for special events

Sludge from Outback Truckers was there with the Fantom.

He lined up and had his photograph taken and there was merchandise for sale for the fans of the show. The Peterbilt prime mover looks just as good from the back

The red and white Mack superliner “Filthy Princess” has the last factory fitted V8 E9 engine in the world

WATM • March 2021

23

History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon

The Government told the Association that it was not going to enforce the compulsory wearing of seat belts on commercial vehicles.

However, later in the year there was a turnaround on this stance

1970 F

red Howe (60) retired from Fremantle’s United Transport (WA) Pty Ltd in October and his photo appeared in the Fremantle-Cockburn News. Alongside him were two longstanding workmates —Bert Thomas (59) of Cottesloe and Harold Stagg (64) of Bicton. Fred had notched up 31 years in the industry while Bert had 31 years and Harold 39. Fred started on long hauls to the northwest in the early days of exploration and seismic work for oil.

The final Executive Council meeting of the year, on December 21, lasted just 35 minutes where it was decided to raise the cartage rate schedule. Various factors forcing this move were the 6 percent increase in the national wage and 5 percent increase in vehicle operating costs. This led to a 5 percent rise in the cartage rate from January 1, 1971 with the exception of interState rates, which were to rise 3 percent to Adelaide and Melbourne and 2 percent to Sydney and Brisbane.

The State Shipping Service carried 167,696 tonnes of cargo from Fremantle to the North West in 1970. This was to dwindle to about half in the 1980s as road transport doubled to more than 280,000 tonnes.

1971 The Owner-Drivers’ Association made an approach to WARTA to join as a separate section, it was reported to the February 3 24

WATM • March 2021

Executive Council meeting. The Executive cautiously supported the move.

The Government told the Association that it was not going to enforce the compulsory wearing of seat belts on commercial vehicles. However, later in the year there was a turnaround on this stance.

Meetings must have become heated in the boardroom as two electric fans were ordered on February 3.

Mr E J Hindle resigned his position on the Transport Advisory Council and was replaced by J A S Warwick.

The Furniture Removers’ Division held a meeting in Bunbury at the Bunbury Hotel of March 5. All but two of the local removers’ community attended, after which a 15-minute film, called “Wagon Wheels of the 21st Century” was shown.

The road tax reared its head again and was aired at the Quarterly Meeting of May 13. Members’ opinions on the Government’s intention to abolish the tax were: • That the Association should take no action; • T hat although the present method of collection created problems, the existing legislation had been generally accepted by the majority of carriers; • The existing method enabled many carriers to evade the tax; • If an alternative method was asked for, the Association should examine the possibilities of increased licence fees for commercial vehicles. It was further discussed that a system of graded licence fees be adopted according to the type of work done by the vehicles, which would also be given special identification plates.

A deputation met the Minister for Transport on May 22 and came away from the meeting perplexed at the lack of any

advice as to an alternative method of collecting a tax by the Government.

The Association opposed the introduction of daylight saving as there were “no benefits to be derived”.

The Annual General Meeting of the Transport and Shipping Division of July 5 heard that although the lifting of regulations for the North-West areas had greatly benefitted the industry, it was felt that easing of permit fees and the extension of the free operating radius should be strongly argued. Mr W Roots stood down from the chairmanship after four years at the helm and R Hunter, of Wigmore’s, elected as Chairman. Other members present represented Dickenson’s, Bays Smith Allan, Mainline, Soltoggio, Crosby and R P North.

The Long Distance Division was agreed to at the August 11 Executive Council Meeting.

Mr J Philiphoff slated his retirement from the road transport industry and he was thanked for his services, which included numerous committee stints.

Mr G A Dickenson retired as a Trustee, a position he held since 1947. He had earlier spent five years on the Committee.

Commercial vehicles were excluded from the Hay Street Mall, Perth between the hours of 11am and 3pm.

The Association expressed its disappointment that the Government did not consult the industry before submitting the proposals to the State Government, as promised, concerning the road tax. The proposed abolition was later rejected and the status quo retained.

A Donnybrook Branch was vibrantly working in 1971.

The Association Golf Day was held on September 24 and was reported as a resounding success.

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