WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - MARCH 2024 EDITION

At the TWU, we are relentless in the pursuit of building and exercising worker power, guided by clear, strong principles. We are committed to earning and keeping our members’ trust and bargaining collectively. We aim to hold corporations to account, empowering the workforce with a strong and powerful voice.

The TWU has a number of Enterprise Agreements in a myriad of transport companies. If you work for a company that has an EA with the TWU, you, along with all transport workers benefit from the years of struggle and collective action of union members before you.

And set the standard for transport workers into the future.

TWU Members also benefit from a range of services available only to members

 Legal Services

 Wage increases and improved conditions through collective bargaining

 Enforcement of your agreement and workplace rights

 Representation for incidents or disciplinaries

 Job Security and protection

 $5,000 Funeral benefits

 Free Wills

 Extraordinary Driver’s License

www.twu.com.au/join

 Income Protection and Group Accident and Sickness cover

 Collective purchasing power of UnionShopper to provide members with discounts on a range of restaurants, gift cards, white goods and more

You should be a member of your union, the TWU if you enjoy these benefits like:

 Annual Leave

 Maternity Leave

 Long Service Leave  Sick days

 Leave loading

 Penalty rates

Superannuation

Health and safety and workers’ compensation

 Allowances (meal allowances, shift allowances)

 Rest breaks  Unfair dismissal protection

Becoming a member of the TWU ensures you can maintain these rights into

Building a resilient supply chain network in Western Australia

By Steven Walsh | Industry X Lead, Accenture ANZ

Supply chain resilience isn’t just a survival strategy; it’s a growth driver. In Western Australia, organisations requiring components, spares and materials grapple with unique challenges such as geographical isolation and market size. This means limited local sourcing options, and a heavy reliance on international shipping leading to longer lead times - resilience becomes paramount.

To be effective in this environment, supply chains need to be the bestin-class for global adaptability and interconnectedness in our economy in recent years, has highlighted the need for businesses to reevaluate and strengthen their strategies.

Over reliance on single-source suppliers, extended and complex networks, and just-in-time inventory management have all contributed to supply chain fragility. In response to global disruptions, some businesses swiftly applied short-term fixes to their intricate networks, while some adopted reactive approaches, like inventory build-up.

The better equipped captured 3.6% more growth compared to their rivals on opposite ends of the scale, with these companies investing in the right mix of resiliency-focused capabilities.

But with disruptions now a constant challenge, how do organisations do this?

Localised, configurable and decarbonised

Diversifying supply chain options is one way to do this; if one option faces disruption, the others can act as a buffer. But as businesses expand their operations, complexity grows and more siloed systems appear.

And WA is particularly challenged due to its isolation and lengthy supply chainsboth on and off land.

This calls for significant investment in the region to build the flexibility of infrastructure needed; new warehousing assets, improved rail infrastructure and distribution centres in key regions.

Diversification across the supply network also adds another layer of complexity to navigate diverse legal and regulatory environments and respond adeptly to market dynamics. To adequately manoeuvre through this, we’re presented with a strategic trifecta: tailor operations to regional nuances, foster adaptability through configurability, and commit to ecofriendly practices.

Investing in resiliency-focused capabilities to boost competitive advantage

Many corporate executives express a commitment to advancing capabilities over the next few years, however a recent Accenture report, Resiliency in the Making, reveals the current state of resiliency is

notably low, with an average maturity score of 56/100 across 31 resilience capabilities.

This shortfall is attributed to the fact that companies are sticking to their existing operational paradigms. By not making the necessary adjustments, they are hindering the full realisation of the intended advantages and improvements from these transformational efforts.

A fragmented and isolated approach to transformation is identified as the culprit, resulting in limited advantages and stalled maturity levels. This underscores the imperative for companies to align their transformative endeavours with cohesive, integrated strategies to truly elevate resiliency across the organisational spectrum.

Across the 31 capabilities, we can consolidate this down to three key actions to increase resilience and generate more revenue.

Digital transformation for enhanced visibility

Companies need the ability to visualise and control their operations, but alarmingly, only 16% possess such capabilities, with just one in ten equipped with near real-time alerting. A staggering 57% of companies take a week or more to be alerted to disruptions, further compounded by nearly 80% of executives requiring an additional week or more to assess the impact.

Before making significant changes, assessing digital maturity is the first step for WA businesses to unlock greater value. The rapid technological innovation of recent years provides ample chances for enterprises of all sizes to improve their use of technology and strategically address disruptions in the supply chain.

Given the region’s reliance on vital supply chains, investing in visibility, predictability and continuity-focused tech is imperative. These technologies offer structured analytics, customer trend insights, scenario analysis and real-time visibility, enabling early detection and correction of operational issues, providing a solution to mitigate the challenges posed by the region's vast geography.

Companies should also aspire toward reconfigurable supply networks and autonomous production for dynamic operational adjustments in the face of volatility. This strategic approach not only enhances resilience, but also positions companies to meet consumer demands for hyper-personalised products.

Looking forward, generative AI emerges as a key enabler, fostering cross-organisational collaboration and streamlining operations in response to realtime disruptions. This digital transformation ensures early detection and correction of operational issues, cultivating the agility necessary to effectively navigate disruptions.

Adopt “shift left” engineering capabilities to embed resilience in design Organisations are increasingly under pressure to fortify resiliency while at the same time reducing costs. In response to this, a “shift left” strategy is championed, redirecting engineering activities earlier in the development process, allowing for the anticipation of potential challenges and disruptions during the design phase.

This proactive strategy aims not only to fortify resiliency but also to address cost constraints, which is particularly pertinent given the region's need for sustainable and efficient supply chain solutions.

The incorporation of Resiliency 2.0 capabilities, with a focus on dynamic and sustainable product development, plays a pivotal role in this context. Given the unpredictable nature of environmental factors impacting the supply chain in WA, embedding resilience into the product design is instrumental.

This approach not only contributes to the reduction of lead times but also fosters

heightened customer retention, a crucial element for maintaining a robust and adaptable supply chain in the region.

Digital twin solutions emerge as an indispensable tool in this landscape, offering real-time visualisation and transparency. In a region characterised by vast and diverse supply chain networks, these solutions offer insights into potential challenges and facilitate collaborative approaches among stakeholders.

The industry is making notable strides towards prioritising efficiency in design–jumping from 17% today to an anticipated 63% in the next three years–and shifting towards collaborative approaches.

Coupling the “shift left” approach with Resiliency 2.0 capabilities and digital twin solutions presents a proactive and sustainable strategy which can be tailored to WA’s supply chain. From early engagement with stakeholders and incorporating eco-design principles, businesses can align themselves with market demands, enhance resilience and address environmental regulations within this distinctive regional context.

Develop multi-skilled career pathways for WA workers

As WA-based organisations gear up with these technological advancements, ongoing learning initiatives are crucial. Resilient businesses demand decentralised decisionmaking, requiring a workforce with diverse skills. The industry’s future will be defined by the integration of software systems, presenting growing opportunities for remote operations and the automation of vessels.

While specialised knowledge remains essential, there’s a growing need for digitally literate and cross-functional thinkers. But the rapid integration of

this technology is presenting a widening skills gap between the workforce and new systems - not just in WA, but worldwide. Subsequently, pressure is being placed on the workforce as the complexity of shipping systems increases.

There are promising signs things are moving, however, as survey data reveals over 68% of companies are investing in a multi-skilled workforce, leveraging analytics and flexible contracts to tap into a wider talent pool. But ultimately, a focused upskilling and reskilling strategy is vital to bridge the skills gap and ensure a robust and adaptable workforce for the future.

What stands in the way of success?

Corporate leaders plan to substantially boost funding in facility relocations, automation and digitisation over the next three years, aiming to reach 2.5 to 4 times today’s levels.

However, existing investments, standing at 4.5% of average revenues or just over $1 billion, have not yet translated into a distinct competitive advantage.

Implementing such significant changes necessitates a compelling vision and clear accountability to ensure immediate value and a solid foundation for longterm transformation. Ultimately, those who invest in cultivating resiliencefocused capabilities and a robust digital infrastructure will seize market share from those who procrastinate.

The time to invest is now, and at an accelerated pace, before the next disruptive event comes knocking.

To view the Accenture Report visit: www. accenture.com/content/dam/accenture/ final/capabilities/cross-service-group/iconicthought-leadership/document/Resiliency-inthe-making-report.pdf#zoom=40

Steven Walsh, Industry X Lead, Accenture ANZ

E: karen@angrychicken.com.au

DESIGN / PREPRESS

Cally Browning | Bare Creative

ACCOUNTS

T: 0430 153 273

E: accounts@angrychicken.com.au

PRINTER

Daniels Printing Craftsmen

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Subscriptions available directly from the Publisher.

T: 0430 153 273

E: karen@angrychicken.com.au

Australia: 1 year $130 (inc GST)

Overseas subscribers: Airmail postage will be added to subscription rate.

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

West Australian Transport Magazine (WATM) is published by Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd

ABN: 35 486 530 095 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, adapted or transmitted in any form by any process (graphic, electronic, mechanical or storage and retrieval system) or sold, resold or otherwise exploited for any purpose without consent of the Publisher.

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

It has been the hottest summer I can remember since living in Western Australia and for anyone working up north it is far worse. In this edition our Bird’s eye view columnist Carol Messenger touches upon something that is rarely spoken about – the truck drivers’ comfort. I must admit I was a bit shocked to find out that within our own industry drivers are often left with no escape from the heat and no available refreshment within transport yards whilst waiting for loading and unloading. This coupled with individual rules on dress code meaning some drivers are have to wear safety clothing that increases discomfort makes me wonder what other profession would people be treated like this in? I can’t think of one.

In this edition Steven Walsh, Industry X Lead, Accenture ANZ talks about

building a resilient supply chain network in WA, Main Roads HVO talks about the benefits of Performance Based Standards, Cam Dumesny CEO of Western Roads Federation talks about the government and bureaucrats fixation with taking trucks off the road, we look around the state at all of the road infrastructure projects including the delivery of 11 new overtaking lanes on Great Northern Highway between Newman and Port Hedland.

The LRTAWA welcomes two new life members and in this edition we talk to the man behind the familiar red and white, Paddock to Plate, livestock vehicles for 32 years – John Mitchell.

Not long now until the 2024 Mack Muster at Quarry Farm so book in Sunday, 24th March to attend. Until next issue – keep cool.

Best,

SUNDAY, 24TH MARCH 2024

QUARRY FARM, PERTH

The 2024 Truck Show is proudly sponsored by our generous partners

Performance Based Standards (PBS) benefits

Western Australia’s Performance Based Standards (PBS) Scheme offers heavy vehicle transport operators the ability to achieve higher productivity and safety through innovative vehicle design. The PBS Scheme looks at how well a vehicle performs on the road by assessing the vehicle’s design against

Fair Work Commission gains road transport powers

The Fair Work Commission will gain the power to issue mandatory orders across the road transport contract chain, with Parliament passing the Government’s closing loopholes bill.

Under the bill, the commission will be able to issue road transport contractual chain orders, which will apply to businesses up and down the chain. A contractual chain order will be able to include terms about:

• payment times

• fuel levies

• rate reviews

• termination, including one way termination for convenience, and

• cost recovery.

ATA Chair David Smith said the ATA

a set of safety performance standards, rather than simply assessing a vehicle based on dimension limits prescribed in regulations.

PBS vehicles are specifically designed to achieve improved efficiency and safety outcomes. The assessment process ensures that vehicles meet a minimum

had worked hard and co-operatively with the Australian Government to ensure the commission’s new powers were workable and fair.

“We were not able to achieve our goal of restricting the commission from setting minimum rates. That argument will now need to be put to the commission as it considers applications for orders,” Mr Smith said.

“But we were able to secure legislation that will work and that could deliver better contract terms for owner drivers and trucking businesses.

“The commission will be required to have regard to the need to avoid adverse impacts on the sustainability, performance and competitiveness of supply chains and the national economy.

“In looking at road transport contractual chain orders, it will also need to have regard to the commercial realities of the road transport industry, including commercial practices in relation to part load, mixed load, no load, multi-leg and return trips.

“The bill will require a 12 month notice

safety performance standard, as stipulated in the WA Performance Based Standards (PBS) Scheme - Standards and Vehicle Assessment Rules, and each PBS vehicle is certified to ensure it meets the particular PBS design specifications. This is in contrast to conventional road trains that can be configured in any manner, provided

of intent period for any proposed order. There will be failsafe mechanisms including internal merits review and new rights for the minister or another party to seek a review of an order if significant new facts or evidence come to light.

“Contractual chain orders are intended to ensure that all parties are covered. We cannot afford a situation where some businesses regulated by the commission lose work to businesses that are not.

“Importantly, we were able to ensure that the commission will not become another safety regulator. The commission will not be able to make orders covering matters comprehensively dealt with under the Heavy Vehicle National Law or other relevant laws.

“The bill requires the commission to engage genuinely with the industry. If a proposed order is good for industry, it will not be opposed by affected operators,” Mr Smith said.

The commission will gain its new powers six months after the bill is signed by the Governor-General.

they meet prescriptive limits, regardless of their safety performance.

Further checks are conducted on PBS vehicles during the certification process to ensure appropriate components are used, such as sufficiently rated tow couplings and a specific category of tyres.

Higher productivity PBS vehicles reduce the number of vehicle movements required for a given transport task, compared to if the same transport task was undertaken using conventional heavy vehicles. The reduction in heavy vehicle movements not only provides benefits to the transport industry, but it also provides considerable benefits to road managers, other road users and the local community.

By reducing the number of heavy vehicle movements, this consequently reduces the risk exposure, through lower number of vehicle interactions, drivers behind the wheel of a heavy vehicle, the risk of human error and the potential for a serious crash. The reduced number of vehicles also results in reduced queueing and loading times.

The costs associated with developing a vehicle design and having a vehicle design assessed by an approved PBS Assessor

are based on a commercial arrangement between the applicant and the PBS Assessor. Main Roads’ Heavy Vehicle Services (HVS) do not charge a fee for processing PBS applications and have no involvement with the commercial relationship between the applicant and PBS Assessor.

HVS staff undertake vehicle certification inspections and, where PBS vehicles can be presented for inspection in the Perth Metropolitan Area, HVS can offer PBS vehicle certification at no cost to the applicant. Where a vehicle cannot be relocated to Perth for an inspection, HVS staff can travel to an agreed location within WA to complete the inspection. In these instances, HVS will seek to recover costs for travel and/or accommodation.

This certification service is only available to applicants under the WA PBS Scheme. Applicants who have submitted applications under the National PBS Scheme need to comply with the National PBS rules and engage an NVHR approved PBS Certifier.

While there is an upfront cost for having a PBS vehicle assessed by an approved PBS Assessor, the productivity and safety

An Austroads report about Quantifying the Benefits of PBS Vehicles indicated there would be a 66% reduction in heavy vehicle crashes if the entire freight task was undertaken by PBS vehicles

benefits outweigh these costs. An Austroads report about Quantifying the Benefits of PBS Vehicles indicated there would be a 66% reduction in heavy vehicle crashes if the entire freight task was undertaken by PBS vehicles.

For more information about the PBS Scheme in Western Australia, please visit the Main Roads HVS website at www. mainroads.wa.gov.au/heavy-vehicles/ permit-order-scheme/PBS/ or call the HVS Helpdesk on 138 486 and ask to speak with a PBS team member.

From major truck workshops, heavy haulage, cranes, the mining industry and more… our team of knowledgeable and qualified technicians share over 100 years combined experience and focus on delivering prompt service alongside the supply of top name brakes and clutchesthroughout Australia and Asia.

With over 20 years in the industry we have a well-earned reputation for the development, manufacture and supply of quality standard and customised designs to suit a wide range of applications.

For the best advice and friendly service contact us today.

+61 8 9353 4411 ■ sales@knightbrakeandclutch.com.au knightbrakeandclutch.com.au

Over to you

When we drive we often let our ambitions override our capabilities

Troubling statistics show that nationally Australia has recorded a significant rise in the road toll.

I believe we as a country have become complacent as we hear about fatalities and they just become another number. That is a completely different story though for the family, friends and workmates who have been left behind with their lives turned upside down as they struggle to come to terms with their loss.

It is a tragedy and we should all endeavor to reverse this trend. It is not until someone we know is involved in a road fatality that the magnitude of what has happened hits home.

We all have stories to tell of close calls of near misses on our highways and roads. It is blaringly obvious to anyone driving nowadays in WA that there is a minor group of drivers who are not competent or adequately trained who have been let loose on our roads. This is coupled with crime related activities such as youth stealing cars and joy riding and hooning - all of which makes our roads even more dangerous.

As truck drivers, we have to constantly be aware of the shortcomings of these motorists and drive accordingly – and it’s not only car drivers at fault. Alarmingly, there is also a trend for some truck drivers who drive in an aggressive and unsafe manner.

I’m not an expert in this field but I do have age and experience on my side and

many kilometres of safe driving under my belt. The main observation to me is that new drivers are not adequately trained and prepared for the road conditions.

This really came to my attention many years ago whilst driving a road train though traffic in Geraldton. With two road trains in front of me I witnessed a young P Plate driver constantly changing lanes and driving erratically; so much so that it was pure luck he did not hit anything.

Shortly after this, I had to stop at the traffic lights and the P Plate driver was in front of me. Traffic was light so I hopped out and had a chat to him. This was not a case of road rage, road rage wasn’t even a thing back then. This was me just being concerned for his well-being and for all of us on the road getting home safely.

It turned out that he had only got his license the day before and he said that he was terrified driving in traffic and interacting with large trucks had frightened him. I suggested that he needed a bit more training - which he agreed.

As I went on my way I reflected on the incident and thought that the system is failing our young drivers when they can pass a driving test however quite clearly are not adequately trained to be on our roads.

I know many agree with me that our system only teaches you how to pass a driving test and little more. Its fine to have parents teach their children to drive; but if the parents

are poor drivers what’s the point. Somehow, we need to have some independently trained drivers tutoring these new drivers.

I’ve worked on plenty of mine sites and you are given training to drive every type of vehicle necessary for your work and safety. It does not matter what previous experience you have had. It’s all about duty of care. I really believe that driving is a huge part of our lives and the training should start in our schools.

The other observation I make is that we need to drive to the road conditions. This is something we are not taught. If it’s raining slow down. If you are on a gravel road slow down. Who has ever been taught how to do an emergency stop? Usually the first time we do an emergency stop is when we have an emergency. Certainly not the best time to start learning.

There is a failing in our Government to address the shortcomings of our training and licensing system. Unfortunately driving is an activity that in many cases a mistake can be disastrous.

I’ve just read about a young woman who was driving while being drowsy. She drifted over the white line and hit a truck. She survived but her injuries were terrible and will affect her for life.

When we drive we often let our ambitions override our capabilities. Slow down and enjoy the journey.

~ Keep it safe, Ray Pratt.

Over to you YOUR SAY

Letters to the editor

To the Editor

In Australia, ignoring acceptable corrective safety actions following the identification of a hazard in all highrisk industries like mining, agriculture and construction normally results in serious and substantial penalties. To give an example, if I choose to ignore safety hazards and an employee is killed on our

cattle station, I am instantly liable for industrial manslaughter charges.

So why then is the rail industry allowed to fly under the radar when poor train visibility and inadequate level crossing safety measures are well-documented contributing factors in several horrific high-profile crashes that have resulted in unequivocal recommendations by State coroners for more than two decades now?

To illustrate my point, today marks 23 years since five young men were killed instantly when the XPT Sydney to Melbourne express passenger train hit the car they were travelling in at the Bells Road Level Crossing near the country town of Gerogery in NSW.

The Bells Road Level Crossing had gained the reputation of one of the most notorious crossings in NSW, recording a series of crashes but not a single fatality until 2001 when all five young men were wiped out in one hit. The family of one of the five young men killed, Kyle Wooden, has joined our group of families from WA, and around Australia calling for immediate rail safety reform.

This horrific multiple fatality in NSW happened just seven months after my brother Christian and his two friends were

killed by a fully loaded grain train at a notorious unlit crossing near Jennacubinne in the WA Wheatbelt that had claimed another life just three years prior.

Following my brother’s accident, WA State Coroner Alastair Hope recommended rail operators take immediate action to install additional lighting on locomotives to effectively warn motorists of their approach at unlit crossings as inadequate train lighting was identified as a contributing factor in the accident and the resulting deaths of my brother and his friends. Our families appealed to Westrail, the company involved in our accident, to install rotating beacons on their locomotives but our pleas fell on deaf ears. Westrail completely ignored the coronial recommendations along with all other rail operators nationwide.

So, you might ask what is the rail industry really doing about safety? The answer is, not nearly enough. It is high time our government legislates the sweeping rail safety reform our families are campaigning for because history has proven time and time again that the rail industry will absolutely not do the right thing on their own.

~ Lara Jensen, Mount Magnet, WA

Caravanners urged to share the rest stops with truckies

Arecent survey by the NHVR of 1000 Australian drivers revealed how caravanners have a lack of understanding of how to share the road with trucks.

The survey showed that 60 per cent of caravanners have parked in a truckspecific rest area, and 22 per cent are doing so often.

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said it is important for caravanners to understand that trucks need specific rest areas to manage their fatigue work and rest requirements.

“While 66 per cent of Australians surveyed are currently aware that they shouldn’t use these truck rest spaces,

they don’t understand the implications or the why – and the consequences can be devastating.

“Fatigue is one of the leading factors that affect safety and heavy vehicle crashes, and when fatigue management requirements aren’t adhered to, there can be serious consequences for all road users,”

The survey also highlighted caravanners uncertainty about communicating with truck drivers on the road, with only half of caravanners aware that they can and should use their UHF radio to do so.

“Using a UHF radio, if available, is vital for communicating with heavy vehicle drivers, to let them know you are going to

overtake them, or so they can let you know when they’re going to overtake you,” he said.

NHVR Executive Director of Corporate Affairs Michelle Tayler says, “We joined forces with popular comedian Jimmy Rees earlier in the year to share this message with caravanners – because as a dad who likes caravanning during the school holidays, he has seen all sorts of drivers out there, especially when towing something heavy,” Ms Tayler said.

“The videos are a comical mix of educational content and real-life issues that impact Australian caravanners and were broadcasted across social media throughout January..

Five Mates Crossing

Over to you

BIRDS EYE VIEW by Carol Messenger

Who cares about the driver?

Sadly, in today’s environment who really cares about the driver? The short answer is not many.

Drivers, including Owner Drivers are often treated lower than the dirt you scrape off the bottom of your shoe and in many cases the worst offenders are transport yards.

None of us have an issue with safety but there is safety and there are ridiculous rules.

Wearing of Hi-Vis clothing is a great safety rule enabling you to be seen easily however, when a yard dictates what ‘colour’ Hi-Vis you must be wearing, then I think that is going a bit far.

Personally, I wear pink Hi-Vis. It is my thing, and I notice quite a number of transport company’s women drivers also in this colour however, I have lost count of the number of times that I have been in a transport yard and have been told, “That’s not good enough you must wear the yellow or orange”.

Why? – Hi-Vis is Hi-Vis and it is certainly a lot more Hi-Vis than some of the old faded orange shirts that I see many of the workers wearing.

Whilst we are on the subject of Hi-Vis, why must it have reflective stripes on in the daytime? Absolutely for night time; but during the day is makes not a minutiae of difference to safety – but many yards insist on it.

Still on the subject of clothing – why is it necessary to wear long sleeved shirts and long pants to make a delivery to a yard?

We are currently going though heatwave conditions in Western Australia and I (amongst many others) wear shorts and a short sleeved shirt in an effort to keep cool. Yet many yards insist on longies –why? It is way too hot to wear heavy duty full length shirts and pants and serves no purpose other than discomfort to the driver. In many cases you are delivering to an open yard so why the need for the longies – simply because that is the rule, it has always been the rule and will always be the rule. No-one knows why but it’s the rule. Common sense be dammed.

Many yards will not allow you anywhere near your vehicle whilst loading or unloading. You have to go and stand in a box or a little tin shed. These tin sheds can get to the temperature of an oven in this hot weather but too bad that’s the rules.

You would not do that to your dog, so why is it ok to treat drivers in this way?

These rules are in the name of safety, but what about the safety of the driver from heat stress?

You can often be sitting waiting for hours to load or being unloaded yet there is no thought of the welfare, safety and comfort

of the driver. No access to water fountains, toilets or a cool place to wait. You just have to sit (or quite often stand) whilst the forkie slams into the side of your trailer for the third time because he hasn’t got the forks high enough. Because this is ‘safer’ than you standing where he can see you and you directing him ‘up a bit, left a bit’.

I am lucky, as my truck is a bit smaller and it is easier for me to pull up to use shopping centre toilets or I have some understanding customers that I can just pull up at and dash in, ‘Just need to use the loo”, but those with semi’s or B Doubles don’t have those opportunities to find a safe place to pull up and take care of the call of nature. I know many who have had to rely on a soft drink bottle to get them through the day.

Without drivers, trucks wouldn’t go anywhere – deliveries wouldn’t be made and everything would grind to a halt.

How hard would it be, to be a for a little more understanding, a little more empathy, a little more consideration of a driver’s needs?

Stop with all the rules and regulations and treat them like human beings, show a little respect for the hard job that we all do. Sadly, it’s just a pipe dream because the reality is… who cares about the driver I ask and that begins in our own industry..

WESTERN

Over to you

FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

Road Transport Has the Answers

How often do you hear the term by politicians or bureaucrats justifying a major project or new regulation by stating it will, "Take trucks off the road"?

"A new port at Kwinana will take container trucks out of the suburbs and allow Perth to grow for the next 100 years”.

“We have reached our target of 20 per cent of freight onto rail, a record number that translates to 110,000 trucks off of our roads each year." 10 August 2020Westport Project

Aside from the anti-truck message, the inference in the first sentence of the above quote is that container trucks are single

handedly stopping Perth from growing. But don't get too comfortable thinking well my business doesn't haul containers, so we are ok…

Recently, I attended a meeting where a politician was trying to move road freight on publicly subsidised coastal shipping.

We do need coastal shipping to help mitigate against freight disruptions. However, having the Government pay public funds to subsidise ships, whilst destroying local road transport industry jobs and businesses is not the solution.

Incidentally, the same politician said that ships could ensure our remote communities

are supplied. The last I heard, Balgo and other similar places don't have a sea port.

Honestly, it sometimes feels like the Road Transport Industry is public enemy number one for politicians, bureaucrats and the turmeric latte with extra cinnamon on top inner-city hipsters are egging them on.

People and Businesses are hurting, and the Transport Industry can help. However, the Government and bureaucrat's fixation with taking trucks off the road is driving up the cost of living for all of us and also increasing emissions.

Taking trucks off the road, is arguably a social policy agenda not an economic

LANDMARK CASE – A WARNING TO TRANSPORT BOSSES: CHAIN OF RESPONSIBILITY LAWS WILL BE ENFORCED

The recent sentencing of a transport boss under Heavy Vehicle National Law is being described as “groundbreaking” by transport experts who warn it sends a strong message to executives across the country.

On 23 January 2024, the National Operations Manager of a transport company was sentenced to three years’ jail time, $100,000+ in penalties and costs, and a 12-month prohibition from acting in similar transport roles. It was in relation to a 2020

crash on Melbourne’s Eastern Freeway which saw four police officers killed by a heavy vehicle being driven by an impaired driver.

It is the first time in Australia an employee of a company has been found guilty and sentenced of a category one offence, the most serious under Heavy Vehicle National Law.

Supply Chain Technical Manager at transport and logistics specialist NTI, Aaron Louws said, “Whilst transport and logistics is highly regulated with a high standard

held across the industry, this case is a reminder to individuals that the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator may bring charges against them personally, as opposed to only prosecuting their employer.”

“The sentence sends a clear message to parties within the supply chain – the law will be enforced,” Mr Louws said. “What also makes this case ground-breaking is that the defendant was convicted as an ‘operator’ of a heavy vehicle for their failure to fulfil their primary duty.”

one. Helping reduce cost pressures on communities and businesses requires economic policy levers not social. This blind fixation is making emissions worse too.

How to Reduce Trucks on Roads, Emissions and Cost of Living Pressures - It's called productivity, a word that Governments no longer use. To illustrate:

• Allowing the most efficient truck combinations to get closer to its pickup and delivery points. Letting this happen means less trucks shuttling between assembly/ break down areas. In just one member's case, when this has been allowed it has reduced truck movements by 50 per day. That means less trucks on the road, less emissions and lower cost to the customer, it's a win all round.

• Fix up commercial vehicle parking in the city. One parcel delivery member cites having to do laps of the city for up to 10 minutes trying to find a park, so that they can take the parcel up to the 30th floor of an office building to get a signature. If there better designed and optimised commercial parking that 10 minutes

Honestly, it sometimes feels like the Road Transport Industry is public enemy number one for politicians, bureaucrats and the turmeric latte with extra cinnamon on top innercity hipsters are egging them on

of laps could be reduced or removed. Meaning less time on the road, less emissions and lower costs for customers.

• Provide lay-up areas for inner city construction sites, so that trucks delivering to the site don't have to do laps waiting to be called in. Meaning less time on the road, reduced congestion, less emissions and lower costs for customers. There are literally 30 more such

examples of simple practical things that can be done to that can reduce truck movements, emissions whilst reducing the cost pressures being felt by all Western Australians. Importantly, it reduces our industry costs and pressures on drivers without reducing our margins.

The Problem

To date there has been little to no interest by Governments and bureaucrats to discuss the issue.

Western Roads Federation have run mainstream media articles on the issue and raised it in media interviews but alas, we have only been met with the sounds of crickets. We are trying a new approach in the next few weeks, and we will see how that goes.

But the biggest problem is the underlying issue that politicians and bureaucrats are fixated on taking trucks off the road; to the point you sometimes feel like you're the enemy.

We are not the enemy. If they actually reached out and worked with our industry they will find we have the answers to what they are looking for.

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.

Email

Albany Ring Road to open by mid-year

Construction of the Albany Ring Road has entered its final stages, with the project on track to be completed and open to road users before the middle of 2024.

With new bridges now in place at the South Coast Highway and Frenchman Bay Road interchanges, works are currently focused on construction of the road surface between Lancaster Road and Princess Royal Drive, along with installation of safety barriers, signs and road markings.

Over the coming months, completed sections of the Ring Road are expected to open incrementally and be connected to the existing road network. This will begin with the section between the Albany Highway interchange and the South Coast Highway bridge in March.

Upon completion, the project will establish an 11-kilometre free-flowing connection between Albany Highway and Princess Royal Drive, including three grade-separated interchanges at Albany Highway, South Coast Highway and Frenchman Bay Road.

The new road will divert heavy vehicles around Albany improving freight efficiency, reducing congestion and improving safety on existing local routes including Albany Highway.

Construction has also been confirmed for a new $37 million flyover at the intersection of Menang Drive and Chester Pass Road will begin in late 2024.

The existing intersection has a combined daily traffic volume exceeding 6,000 vehicles, of which 54 per cent are heavy vehicles.

The new flyover will make the westbound turning movement from Chester Pass Road to the Albany Ring Road (Menang Drive) free-flowing, removing the need for trucks to queue in the turning lane before making a right turn across oncoming northbound traffic.

The community is where road safety really begins, which is why the Road Safety Commission is making $350,000 available via the Road Trauma Trust Account to help deliver road safety events and projects, including National Road Safety Week (5-12 May).

There are three types of available grants:

• community based events (Up to $5,000);

• community based projects (Up to $25,000); and

• National Road Safety Week 2024 events and yellow lighting activations (up to $5,000).

To apply and see examples of successful past projects visit https:// communityconnect.rsc.wa.gov.au/ community-grants-portal

RTransport in regional WA to receive major funding injection

In a major boost to transport in regional WA, an additional $178 million has been committed by the WA Government for a wide range of initiatives including more assistance to access drivers' licences.

Of that amount, a further $4.1 million is going to extend the Driving Access and Equity Program that is helping disadvantaged learner drivers in regional WA obtain their driver's licence, which further supports regional employment, education and community engagement.

$350,000 Road Safety Community Grants Program now open Road maintenance returns in-house in Southern WA

oad maintenance in the Great Southern and South West regions has been given a major boost with 100 workers joining Main Roads as part of the State-wide transition of road maintenance functions back into Government.

Road maintenance functions have been progressively moved back to Main Roads since late 2022. A total of 39 road maintenance staff will be joining Main Roads in the Great Southern, while 61 will be joining in the South West, where road maintenance will also be strengthened by

The Mid-Year Review also includes a major boost for safety upgrades at regional level crossings with an additional $34 million being invested. This includes $17 million from the Federal Government's Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program. The total investment for regional level crossing safety upgrades over the next four years is now $54 million.

An additional $132 million in State funding will also be provided for four road projects that had Federal funding removed under a recent review of the nation's infrastructure pipeline:

• $48 million for the Moorine Rock to Mt Holland Road Upgrades;

• $48 million for the Marble Bar Road Upgrade;

• $29.6 million to continue planning for the Pinjarra Heavy Haulage Deviation project; and

• $6.4 million for the Great Southern Secondary Freight. the establishment of a new Main Roads office in Manjimup.

The addition of 100 staff across the Great Southern and South West takes the total number of staff joining Main Roads since the start of the transition to more than 350.

Six regions plus the metropolitan area have now been successfully transitioned across the State. Main Roads Metropolitan Incident Response services will be the next to come on-board in mid-February, with the final changeover in the Kimberley taking place in November 2024.

Road safety boost on the way for the Great Southern

Four more projects scheduled to commence under the landmark $1 billion Regional Road Safety Program (RRSP) later this year.

Since the RRSP was established in 2020 more than 600km of the State road network in the Great Southern has received safety upgrades such as sealed shoulders or audible edge lines.

This includes large sections of Albany Highway, Muir Highway, Great Southern Highway, South Western Highway, South Coast Highway and Chester Pass Road.

The installation of these low-cost safety treatments is helping reduce the number of single vehicle run-off road crashes – one of the leading causes of death and serious injury on regional roads.

Around $21 million is being invested to deliver the four new projects including:

• 48km of sealed shoulders and audible edge lines on Muir Highway

• 34km of sealed shoulders and audible edge lines on Albany Highway

• 28km of sealed shoulders and audible edge lines on Albany Lake Grace Road

• Four kilometres of audible edge lines on Donnybrook Kojonup Road

Last year saw a 28 per cent reduction in the number of people killed on regional roads compared to 2022 and represented the lowest number of deaths in a decade.

The Regional Road Safety Program is jointly funded by the State and Commonwealth Governments.

DJoint steel decarbonisation project

Pilbara iron ore will underpin investigations into the development of Australia's first ironmaking Electric Smelting Furnace (ESF) pilot plant.

Rio Tinto and BHP will partner with BlueScope to develop a new low-carbon steel smelting technology which will allow the wider use of WA ores in future green steelmaking plants, with pilot plant trials potentially commissioned as early as 2027.

Several precincts are currently being developed across regional WA where co-location of an electric steel furnace pilot plant would be possible.

Dampier Salt to sell Lake Macleod operation to Leichhardt

ampier Salt Limited has entered into a sales agreement of their Lake MacLeod salt and gypsum operation in Carnarvon with privately-owned salt company Leichhardt Industrials Group for A$375 million.

Completion of the sale is conditional on certain commercial and regulatory conditions being satisfied, and this is expected to occur by the end of the year.

Rio Tinto’s Managing Director Port, Rail & Core Services, Richard Cohen said, “The sale of Lake MacLeod will enable Dampier Salt to focus on enhancing operational efficiencies at its remaining two Pilbara operations, while allowing the new owner of Lake MacLeod to maximise its potential.

“Until the completion of the sale, the

Dampier Salt leadership team’s focus will be on safety, delivering on plan, and maintaining respect for all people at Lake MacLeod and in the Carnarvon community.

“We are pleased Leichhardt has committed to retaining all Lake MacLeod employees, ensuring continuity of operation and providing job stability to the 130-strong workforce.”

Lake MacLeod is one of three solar salt sites owned by Dampier Salt, which also includes operations in Dampier and Port Hedland. It is located within Baiyungu country in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia, 70 kilometres north of the town of Carnarvon.

Dampier Salt has no plans to sell any other assets within its business.

Two new interchanges on Reid Highway

The ongoing program of congestion relief in Perth's north-eastern suburbs has reached another milestone, with NRW Contracting Pty Ltd named preferred proponent for the design and construction of two new interchanges on Reid Highway.

The $225 million Reid Highway Interchanges Project, jointly funded by the Australian and WA Governments committing $112.5 million each, will see two free-flowing interchanges constructed to replace the signalised intersections at Altone Road and Drumpellier Drive/Daviot Road.

As part of the project, Reid Highway will be modified to pass over Altone Road, while a new bridge will be constructed to allow Drumpellier Drive/ Daviot Road to pass over Reid Highway.

Access ramps and roundabouts will also be constructed to maintain connectivity to and from the highway.

The intersections of Altone Road and Drumpellier Drive are two of only five remaining signalised intersections along Reid Highway.

Reid Highway also serves as a strategic east-west freight route. Following the recent opening of Tonkin Highway between Morley and Muchea, the new interchanges will further enhance the movement of heavy vehicles by removing signalised intersections on the strategic freight route.

Construction is on track to begin in the first half of 2024 and scheduled for completion in early 2026.

LRTAWA by Jan Cooper Chief Executive Officer, Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia (Inc)

Respect for livelihoods should be at the heart of policy decisions

LRTAWA welcomes two new life members

When your peers think highly enough of your contribution to their industry to award you life membership of their association, it is worth celebrating. The Livestock & Rural Transport Association of WA (LRTAWA) bestowed this honour on two long serving members, John Mitchell and Rod (Wally) Stanbishop recently.

The Chief Executive Officer of Mitchell’s Livestock Transport, John Mitchell is well known in livestock transport circles. He has been the man behind the familiar red and white, Paddock to Plate, livestock vehicles for 32 years.

New overtaking lanes on Great Northern Highway

The delivery of 11 overtaking lanes on Great Northern Highway between Newman and Port Hedland is now underway as part of a $50 million package of works.

The lanes, which have been included under the Australian Government's newly announced Great Northern Highway corridor, will help support the Pilbara region's booming mining industry and improve road safety for heavy vehicle drivers and other road users.

The major package of works is jointly funded by the Australian and Western

Australian Governments, with the Australian Government providing $40 million and the WA Government $10 million.

With more than 60 per cent of traffic between Newman and Port Hedland comprising of heavy vehicles, the new lanes are expected to enhance the existing freight network, increasing transport efficiency and improving road safety.

The overtaking lanes will be delivered in two stages with the first stage to see five new overtaking lanes built between Newman and Auski. These will include three southbound overtaking lanes and two

As transport heritage goes, Mitchell’s Livestock Transport stands out as an enduring success story. The business was established as a general carrier by John’s grandfather Eric (Mick) and his wife Margaret in 1948. In those days the work involved transporting rural goods from the rail siding. The industry was tough but the people in it were even tougher. Legend has it that Mick never wore shoes and effortlessly carried 44-gallon drums of oil across checker plate floors in his bare feet.

When Mick passed on, John’s parents Jack and Gillian joined Margaret in the business and they started carrying cattle. Jack is fondly remembered for his leading role in establishing the Livestock Transport Association in WA and ultimately the Australian Livestock Transporters Association.

Running a transport company with 31 prime movers and 60 staff, transporting 650,000 cattle and 200,000 sheep across more than three million kilometres each year, was not part of John’s boyhood dreams in the carefree days at St Joseph’s and Waroona Primary Schools. In those days apart from playing football and basketball, his primary goal was to become a mechanical fitter, an ambition supported by his father who never encouraged any of his three children to join him in the transport game as he didn’t see it as the best career choice.

The stage seemed to be set for John’s future with a successful mechanical fitter’s apprenticeship at Alcoa and four years working as a tradesman, including a stint as an AMWU shop steward. John commented that his time as a shop steward gave him a unique insight to what makes multinationals, unions and people tick. It introduced him

northbound overtaking lanes.

A second contract to deliver six overtaking lanes on the Great Northern Highway between Auski and Port Hedland is expected to be awarded before the middle of the year.

All 11 overtaking lanes are scheduled to be complete by mid-2025.

WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, “Our Government is focussed on ensuring the movement of freight across our State, particularly in the North West, is as safe and efficient as possible.

“We have a significant number of heavy vehicles moving on the Great Northern

Running a transport company with 31 prime movers and 60 staff, transporting 650,000 cattle and 200,000 sheep across more than three million kilometres each year, was not part of John’s boyhood dreams

to the importance of workplace safety at a time when the concept was genuinely about workers’ wellbeing rather than an industry in its own right.

Fate however had a different plan in store. In 1988, Jack tragically passed away unexpectedly and responsibility for the company fell to 23 year old John. With the help of siblings, David and Jenny and a loyal workforce that typifies the Mitchell’s brand, the business continued until eventually John bought his siblings out. He continued to stamp his signature creativity and determination on the company.

In 1998, it became the first Australian transport company to run two B Doubles in a road train format. Always seeking to push the boundaries of safety and innovation, in 2008 John successfully patented a 27.5m B Triple, the ‘C Train’ that he had designed.

Like his father, John has always believed in putting his hand up for an industry he is proud to represent. He has a strong view that policy makers should understand and respect the livelihoods of the people who are affected by their decisions. To this end he has served 34 years on the executive committee of the LRTAWA including three years as president and three years as vice

president. As part of those roles he has represented the LRTAWA on a vast range of committees and consultative groups and been prominent in pursuing common sense and workable outcomes for WA’s fatigue management laws, animal welfare regulations and the design of the Muchea Livestock Centre to name a few. He is currently the LRTAWA’s ministerial appointment to the Freight and Logistics Council.

Since 2004 John was instrumental in running low stress stock handling schools for staff and community members with around 400 participants taking part in that time.

Under John’s leadership, and with the support of wife Lisa, Mitchell’s Livestock Transport has grown to include bases in Esperance and Broome and operates throughout Australia. Only time will tell if any of John’s four children will be involved in the business but as he quipped ‘they’d probably have to take a pay cut.’

At the same time as expanding his own business he has made time to contribute to the industry and willingly offers his expertise, wisdom and guidance and for this reason his commitment has been honoured.

Next month we’ll feature Rod Stanbishop.

Highway and the installation of overtaking lanes in strategic locations will reduce travel times, improve efficiency, and enhance safety by ensuring drivers don't take unnecessary risks.

“We remain committed to improving regional road safety and the wider State road network for both heavy vehicle operators and local commuters.”

Senator for Western Australia Glenn Sterle said, “It’s wonderful that work is underway on 11 new overtaking lanes on the Great Northern Highway between Newman and Port Hedland.

“These overtaking lanes will improve road safety by providing and encouraging safe overtaking opportunities, reducing driver frustration from drivers not being able to overtake slower-moving vehicles.

“Residents, drivers and importantly our hard-working truckies in Western Australia's north will greatly benefit for years to come from this work being funded by the Australian and Western Australian Governments.

“As someone who still drives trucks along this route, I know this work is going to make a great difference for our truckies.”

Retailers looking for cost savings to survive

Advice

given to retailers could

open new opportunities for the transport industry as they are encouraged to outsource their picking, packaging and shipping.

By Mal Siriwardhane founder and CEO of B dynamic Logistics

With e-commerce and online shopping on the rise, the sector is becoming increasingly competitive. While online retailers enjoyed a period of incredible growth during the pandemic, changes to the economy are now placing greater pressure on brands to find efficiencies and deliver products to customers faster.

We are just at the outset of the digital shopping journey and it has a significant way to go. Many businesses that started during COVID now need to focus on key areas of operation and service in order to survive and my advice is clear - act fast as the market is only going to become more competitive.

Many online retailers will find it difficult to cope if costs keep rising. It takes a lot of people and time to pack and ship products and add to this the rising cost of shipping and managing returns.

Outsource logistics and returns

For businesses that are internally managing their own picking, packing and shipping processes now is the time to look at outsourcing this work as this will reduce costs. Logistics companies offer the benefits of economies of scale to achieve efficiencies that are not possible under a typical retailer's roof.

While everyone is being impacted by the rising cost of doing business, large logistics companies have the capacity through volume to absorb rising costs better than most.

In addition, they utilise commercial-grade

systems and technology including robots that enable the work to be done in a fraction of the time and at much less cost. Take advantage of logistics providers in this market.

Increase your reach

Not many businesses are aware, but much of the work we do as an e-commerce enabler and third-party logistics company involves helping our retailers to reach more customers online.

We don't just help to store and ship your products, we also help you to ensure your website reaches as many consumers as possible with an increased propensity to buy. This involves helping business owners to plug their websites and products into larger platforms such as Amazon.

Re-evaluate your packaging

While packaging is important, it also adds costs. Working with a good logistics company will assist you to understand how you can reduce your operational and delivery costs through simple measures such as minimising or changing the packaging.

Review your costs for delivery

Online retailers need to think strategically about their market base and how far they are prepared to service certain areas – remote areas cost more to reach. Either reduce the areas you ship to or add extra costs to these deliveries. These are decisions a good third-party logistics provider can assist with.

Consider the frequency of deliveries

Same-day or next-day delivery is a brilliant service for businesses that have the capacity to undertake this type of service. For those who don’t, revise frequency and cost structure could be put in place to enable the business to absorb rising costs. Give customers the option to pay more for fast shipping or less for regular shipping.

Set up collection hubs

Removing last-mile delivery can reduce your costs of parcel delivery significantly. Partner with other businesses to become collection points for your parcels so customers can collect items at their convenience. This is ideal where you don't have a physical location. All you need to do is ship items to these sites for certain cities or states.

About B dynamic Logistics

B dynamic Logistics is part of the B dynamic Group. It is Australia's leading one-stop shop for eCommerce enablement, business-to-business services and thirdparty logistics. B dynamic Logistics works with businesses to design and develop customised online stores, integrate flexible logistics solutions and provide pick, pack and delivery services to their customers. The B dynamic Group was created in 2005 and currently distributes products for over 100 iconic retail brands and is one of Australia's fastest-growing logistics companies. bdynamiclogistics.com.au

This is ‘The Outback’

IThere needs to be accountability on both sides

By Cliff Graham

would like to clarify a bit more detail about my passion regarding the transport industry, road safety and the need for it to be a level playing field for all involved.

Over the years, I have worked closely with road safety and accident prevention groups. One particular occasion at Nebo, QLD I was asked by a lady from the local Accident Prevention Group hosting a Driver Reviver my thoughts and opinion on the Eton Range south west of Mackay - a stretch of road known for high fatalities. My response was common sense. Erect more signage such as ‘Reduce Speed/ Steep Descent Ahead and flashing lights to capture all heavy vehicle drivers’ attention ensuring they select a low gear before they commence their descent.

“That is a good idea I was told and within 12 months that concept was implemented and the warnings were erected 500 metres before the top of the range and at the top.

I’m not after any brownie points but if my passion for the industry and road safety saves even one life then I feel I have achieved something spectacular.

This started my passion to be more involved in road safety, accident investigations and I became more vocal about accident prevention. I worked with local police in that area who asked for my input on multiple issues - mainly minor accidents involving trucks, to uncover the cause and prevent such accidents from happening again.

Where did this passion stem from? My uncle was killed when a burning tree fell on his truck. The tree was set fire by a government department during a controlled burn off along the side of the road. His death could have been prevented if the tree had been cut down. Nothing is going to bring him back but yet nobody put their hand up to say sorry we made a mistake.

We are human, we all make mistakes

And the result of this is not a day goes by without someone posting on Social Media or you hear on the news or radio regarding a heavy vehicle accident of some kind

and have errors of judgement, systems can fail and clerical errors can occur.

Once I was given an infringement saying my trailer was unregistered and did not have a current machinery inspection of road worthiness. It was a clerical or computer error as it had passed the inspection however, I never received the Certificate of Compliance and yes I should have followed that up.

The infringement happened on a

weekend so there was no way I could contact anyone to rectify the situation. I was the one who suffered and no one involved including the Police Officer who took a hammer and chisel to my trailer to remove the number plate and caused damage in the process said sorry, we made a mistake.

The list goes on… I am sure I am not the only one these things have happened to however, who is accountable for all the extra expenses, time and inconvenience?

I have been on plenty of roads around Australia that I don’t believe comply with Australian standards, I have driven through roads works that I believe did not comply with their own traffic management plans. Don’t get me talking about signage at road works…

I could have left the industry or even just done my job and not cared but I do care and I am sick of how one sided it is.

No wonder the industry is losing its experienced old school operators who are being replaced with drivers who seem to be more valued by their compliance to regulations than their ability to actually safely drive and operate a heavy vehicle combination.

And the result of this is not a day goes by without someone posting on Social Media or you hear on the news or radio regarding a heavy vehicle accident of some kind.

Of course there are conscientious young people getting involved in the industry however there is not enough of them to cater for the huge volume of work. Stay safe folks and look out for your mates

A big thank you to our volunteers

TRANSAFE WA is a not-for-profit organisation who relies on the financial support from industry to deliver road transport industry safety initiatives in WA. These initiatives help to reduce the number of unsafe interactions between the vulnerable road users and heavy vehicles in our state.

Dedicated to WA, the iNSTRUCKTA! safety truck is one such initiative that travels to schools, industry, and community events to help educate our current and future road user on ‘how to safely interact with trucks and heavy vehicles’.

Participants learn about trucks blind spots, the dangers of turning trucks, cutting in on trucks and overtaking trucks. This learning is done while sitting down in one of ten truck seats inside the trailer of iNSTRUCKTA! The participants are immersed into the trucks cabin using virtual reality headsets, and they are given a truck drivers perspective as well as a bird’s eye view of the same scenarios.

TRANSAFE WA operates frugally with a staff of three employees and a committee of management consisting of ten volunteers; all of whom have a strong connection to the road transport industry.

TRANSAFE WA also relies on volunteers to assist when the iNSTRUCKTA! safety

truck is out and about at events and has attended 51 events since launching in 2023. An impressive 18,250 people have completed the VR experience.

Executive Officer of TRANSAFE WA Rob Sharpe would like to extend a big thank you to all the volunteers that have donated their valuable time to TRANSAFE WA whilst it travels around WA communities and events.

“People who volunteer, help to facilitate change and support, and sustain organisations delivering services and activities that are essential to our communities such as iNSTRUCKTA!,” says Rob.

“Without these legendary volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do – thank you. There is a great deal of satisfaction that comes from making a difference to people in your local community and volunteering offers many other rewards including learning new skills and gaining valuable experience in a wide range of areas that may or may not be related to your paid work. Volunteers are our gold nuggets and we appreciate you,” finishes Rob.

If you would like to volunteer at an event with iNSTRUCKTA! please reach out to Rob Sharpe at executive.officer@transafewa.com.au

Sharon Stidworthy

Katrina Kaushal and Julianne Curnow

Rob Sharpe and Rick Post

John Sura

Coralie Hurley

Nathan and Jasmine Sharpe

Adam Gosling and friend

Kieren Sutton

Gavin Trim from Nationwide Training

Ken and Rick Post

Anaru Tautari

Emma Ward

Jodie Young

Helen and Ray Pratt

Nenif Kanna

Josh Pinker

TRANSAFE WA Committee

WA on track for level crossing upgrades

Railway crossings in WA are on track to receive significant upgrades thanks to the Australian Government’s Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund (RLCUF). $160 million over four years has been committed to state and territory governments to fund up to 50 per cent of the cost.

The WA Government will fund 50 per cent of projects costs and receive $7.1 million in the first round of funding. The proposed

list includes 14 priority projects for railway crossing improvements across regional areas of the WA road and rail network.

Upgrades include the installation of flashing lights, audible warning devices, enhanced signage along with a pedestrian maze upgrade to increase the visibility of crossings on both sides of the roadway in response to approaching trains.

The RALCSP also invests in education and awareness activities on how to behave

safely around railway crossings, improved data and risk assessments, along with research and trials to promote low-cost, innovative safety solutions. (See table below).

Rail operator, Pacific National, has called on industry and government to convene a national summit on level crossing safety.

The call for action follows a fatal collision on New Years Eve at a level crossing on the Barrier Highway at Bindarrah in South Australia (near the New South Wales border) that resulted in the tragic deaths of two experienced Pacific National train drivers, Mick Warren and Kevin Baker, when the locomotive they were driving was struck by a heavy vehicle.

This is in addition to hundreds of near miss incidents that occur at level-crossings each year. There are more than 23,000 level crossings in Australia.

North lake grace - Karlgarin Road Kuender

Geraldton - Mount Magnet Road Mullewa

Proposed topics for discussion and immediate action at the summit include a full audit of the nation’s level crossings to identify at risk locations, industryled solutions to improve behaviour and safety around level crossings, increased investment in technology and infrastructure, increased penalties for blatant indiscretions and joint industry public education campaigns to protect drivers, among other measures.

Over to you

Restoration of Leyland

FGK 100 460F

By PHIL WARWICK

My Leyland truck was bought from a farm at North Yunderup. The tray skeleton was in a paddock and covered in weeds. The chassis cab was in a shed and being used as shelf for anything that didn’t have a home.

Rats had made nests in the seats and in the roof space behind the wiper motor. The tyres were all flat and out of date, the oil bath air cleaner was on the passenger’s side upside down, engine was a non-runner, no spark plugs fitted, no radiator or exhaust system and the fuel in it was more than two years old and stale.

The first job was compression test, drop the oil and filter - no lumps of metal was a good sign, then new plugs and points, oil and filter fitted and fresh petrol in tank after draining old fuel out, carby and jets dewaxed new battery fitted and engine started with good oil pressure.

I tried to engage gears but clutch seized. The cab was stripped and removed, the engine and gearbox removed to find the gearbox was full of water. It had to be stripped and all bearings replaced including seals and gaskets.

Then new seals and gaskets were fitted to engine. The brake cylinders and brake lines were all full of water and rusted. All the

cylinders were resleeved, new steel pipes and hoses made up and the vacuum tanks revealed.

The chassis and cab were sandblasted then painted. Several wheel bearings replaced along with hub seals and the tray cut back to standard size (had been made

to take twelve pallets) sandblasted and painted with a new timber floor fitted.

The gearbox and engine were refitted; the majority of wiring replaced, radiator remanufactured, new tyres fitted and the rest is history.

History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon

2007

The May State Budget gave $975.63 million to the road system, a boost from the previous year’s $718.3 million. $24.5 million of that was for stage one of the new Indian Ocean Drive from Lancelin to Ocean Farms Estate.

A Geraldton bakery was fined $18,000 for failing to comply with WA’s laws on fatigue management for commercial vehicle drivers, not ensuring that drivers took their prescribed rest breaks.

In the majority of truck accidents in 2005, fatigue and inappropriate speed for the prevailing conditions were responsible for more than 50 percent of the crashes, insurer NTI reported recently.

From the WA Business News of June 14: The Fremantle Port Authority is planning to more than double the size of its Rous Head industrial estate, as part of a $194 million port deepening project. It was to accommodate the increasingly larger container ships and spoil from the dredging was to be used to create an extra 30 hectares of industrial land. The existing 25ha Rous Head industrial area, which was created in 1988, was fully occupied. The Port was pursuing plans to build a giant island wharf in Cockburn Sound. Stage one of the three-stage island wharf, which included

construction of a causeway to the mainland, was budgeted at $1.3 billion and was awaiting Cabinet approval. Stage one was hoped to be completed by 2015.

Ian Harrower took over the reins of the School Bus Division from Lloyd Shepherdson after his three-year stint, at the July 20 Annual General Meeting. Ray Gannaway was elected ViceChairman.

The annual Convoy for Kids was staged on July 29 with the Asthma Foundation of WA the major recipient. It coincided with the Truck and Trailer Show on July 27-29.

At the October 25 Annual General Meeting, Vice-Chairman Graeme Brickwood stood down after being involved with the Forum since 1978 and having been on the Board since 2000. Chairman Derek Nathan registered his main points for the year as being:

• The loss of Debra Goostrey and gain of Ian King in the CEO role;

• The success of the Training Division with traineeships, short courses and the VET in Schools project;

• Increasing the membership;

• The success of the Convoy for Kids;

• The retirement of Fred Heldberg from the Board.

The Awards Dinners was staged on October 27. One of the highlights was the awarding of Life Membership to Fred Heldberg, becoming the fourth behind J R Callow, Viv Hall and Len Della. The winners of the awards were:

• BP Professional Driver: Craig Langridge (Coogee Chemicals);

• CGU Insurance School and Community Bus Driver: Cheryl Cheetham;

• DOCEP Resources Safety Dangerous Goods Safe Driver: Jason Clifton (Clifton Transport);

• TRANSUPER Operations Excellence: David Hay (Midland Brick);

• Truck Centre Outstanding Contribution to the WA Road Transport Industry: Stewart Beard (WA Freight Group);

• NTI WA Transport Woman: Heather Jones (Success Transport); TFWA Professional Pilot Operator: Nicole Borowicz.

At the WA Transport and Logistics Awards, Jayde Transport won the Customer Service Excellence Award (Small company category); while CRT Group and Pacific Transport won the same award for large companies.

During October, 170 heavy vehicles were stopped in WA as part of a driver fatigue monitoring operation. Ten notices were issued to drivers who had not taken the seven-hour rest break, which is obligatory under WA’s fatigue regulations.

The total number of road deaths in Australia for 2007 was 1611 — 13 up on the previous year’s total.

Large bushfires

The Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia (Inc) is the only transport association in WA specifically representing rural transporters.

We are a strong voice for rural WA, ensuring that policy decisions support the viability and safety of rural transporters, primary industry and the communities they service.

Members of the Management Committee are hands on business people, most of whom would drive a truck weekly and travel on nearly every road in WA’s 150,000 km road network in the course of a year.

This close proximity between transporting operations and the advisory role means that representatives of the Association are at the coal face and as such are able to provide that all too rare practical hands on advice in committees, consultative forums and meetings.

MEMBERSHIP ENQUIRIES

Ph 08 9208 0320 or email admin@lrtawa.org.au

www.lrtawa.org.au