Big Rigs 4 March 2022 by Prime Creative Media

FRIDAY, March 04, 2022

CRIPPLING PORT COSTS Page 3

ONLINE www.bigrigs.com.au

EMAIL info@bigrigs.com.au

BONUS

14-PAGE

TRAILER SPECIAL

TRUCKIES DIG DEEP

Cover credit: David Vile.

Page 11

STILL GOIN’ STRONG

How this $7k buy has been lovingly restored to its former glory: Page 14

2 NEWS CONTACT US Address: 11-15 Buckhurst Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205 Phone: 03 9690 8766 Email: editor@bigrigs.com.au Web: bigrigs.com.au Accounts: 03 9690 8766 Subscriptions: 03 9690 8766 Classifieds: 0403 626 353 Circulation and distribution queries: 03 9690 8766 info@bigrigs.com.au EDITOR James Graham: 0478 546 462 james.graham@primecreative.com.au REPORTER Danielle Gullaci danielle.gullaci@primecreative.com.au GENERAL MANAGER Peter Hockings: 0410 334 371 peter.hockings@primecreative.com.au MEDIA SALES CONSULTANT Marie O’Reilly: 0403 626 353 marie.oreilly@primecreative.com.au CLIENT SUCCESS Katharine Causer: 0423 055 787 katharine.causer@primecreative. com.au CONTRIBUTORS Truckin in the Topics/Spy on the Road: Alf Wilson, 0408 009 301 Brent Davison; David Vile; David Meredith; Mike Williams; Jon Wallis Big Rigs National Road Transport Newspaper is published by Prime Creative Media. It is the largest circulated fortnightly truck publication in Australia with 26,023* copies per fortnight. *12 month average, publisher’s claim November 2018

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

$678m project to fully seal ‘Australia’s longest shortcut’

KNOWN as ‘Australia’s longest short-cut’, the 2720 kilometres that make up Outback Way are set to be fully sealed as part of a major $678 million project. Linking Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia by road, Outback Way is a vital freight route. The WA section of the route is formed by the Great Central Road and extends 872 kilometres from Laverton to the WA/NT border, with 736km currently unsealed. The WA government put a proposal to the federal government late last year for the joint funding arrangement which will see the WA section of the highway sealed by 2030. The federal government has allocated $400 million to complete the 872km seal through WA, with the WA government committing a further $100 million towards the project. “When complete, this project will see 872km of road throughout WA fully sealed, providing better access to remote communities, better links from east to west and exciting new tourism prospects,” said Transport Minister Rita Saffioti. “With the recent flooding of the Trans-WA rail line, we

Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce, right, with the team from Tanami Transport at the official funding announcement. Photo: Facebook/Barnaby Joyce

know how important it is to have alternate routes for freight to come into WA. “The SA floods demonstrated the need for more resilient transport options into the future and Outback Way is clearly one of them.” The remaining funding will help seal the road in the Northern Territory and Queensland. In WA, about $52 million has so far been spent to upgrade the route, with an

additional $112 million already allocated for works over 147km through to 2025-26. The latest funding announcement means there is an additional $500 million to complete the final 589km over the next seven years. “We are committed to sealing the entire 2720km, from Winton in Queensland to Laverton in Western Australia, and this funding will help get the job done,” said Deputy Prime Minister Barn-

aby Joyce at the official announcement. “These upgrades will spark new opportunities for industries, including the critical earth precincts north of Alice Springs, the gold precincts around Laverton and our massive beef industry, while boosting tourism and ensuring better access for communities along the corridor.” Peak state trucking body, Western Roads Federation (WRF), welcomed the an-

nouncement although said it is disappointed that it did not include the Tanami Road, the final critical missing link in opening up the centre of the nation and the Kimberley. The WRF said the Tanami Road would deliver viable alternative freight routes when needed to bypass increasingly weather-impacted routes, and new market access opportunities for businesses and remote communities. Other benefits would include more jobs for indigenous communities, and improved national security by providing greater connectivity. The WRF also refuted a claim by the Grattan Institute in one media report that claimed the Outback Way announcement by Joyce was “jumping the gun”, as it not been assessed by Infrastructure Australia. “Whilst well-intended, Infrastructure Australia assessment process is perceived as biased against remote and regional Australia for several reasons,” said a statement from the WRF. “Evidence the Infrastructure Priority List 2021 that has 80 per cent of all priorities are just in Australia’s capital cities.”

cmihino.com.au parts@cmihinomelbourne.com.au parts@cmihinoadelaide.com.au

TRUST HINO GENUINE PARTS FOR YOUR TRUCK! HURRY INTO CMI HINO AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DISCOUNTED PRICING ON BRAKE PADS, LININGS AND WHEEL BEARING KITS FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY!

300 SERIES

BRAKE PAD KITS WITH HUB SEALS FRONT 5.5 TON FRONT 6.5/8.5 TON

$257.50 inc GST REAR 5.5 TON $219.40 inc GST REAR 6.5/8.5 TON

$302.45 inc GST $255.40 inc GST

500 SERIES

BRAKE LINING KITS WITH HUB SEALS From FRONT FC/FD $222.95 inc GST FRONT FE PRE 17 $315.75 inc GST FRONT FG/FH PRE 17 $392.75 inc GST FRONT FM/FL $400.35 inc GST

REAR FC/FD $348.70 inc GST inc GST REAR FE PRE 17 $385.05 REAR FG/FH PRE 17 $528.55 inc GST inc GST REAR FM/FL $528.55 ea

700 SERIES

WHEEL BEARING KIT FRONT FS/FY/SH/SS 2012 onwards FRONT FS/FY/SH/SS 2012 onwards

500 SERIES

WHEEL BEARING KIT FRONT FC7J/FD PRE 02/2012 FRONT FD7J 02/2012 onwards FRONT FG/GH/FM/FL up to 2017 FRONT FE PRE 17 REAR FC71/FD PRE 02/2012 REAR FD7J 02/12 onwards REAR FG/GH/FM/FL 17 REAR FE PRE 17

Offer ends 30/04/2022. Please refer to the website for full terms and conditions on 1 year 100,000 kilometre parts warranty.

REGENCY PARK (SA) 569 SOUTH ROAD PH: (08) 8243 8100

LONSDALE (SA) 11-15 LINDSAY ROAD (08) PH: 8243 8110

A Toyota Group Company

DERRIMUT (VIC) 326 BOUNDARY ROAD PH: (03) 9931 6500

$305.55 inc GST inc GST axle $359.45 per

$109.20 inc GST $147.20 inc GST $305.55 inc GST $226.20 inc GST $172.60 inc GST $252.65 inc GST $359.45 inc GST $252.65 inc GST

NEWS 3

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Stevedores slugging port operators, say peak bodies

ROAD Freight NSW (RFNSW) and the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) have joined forces to table recommendations to urgently address a raft of issues impacting operators at the country’s ports. In a joint submission to the Productivity Commission (PC) inquiry into the nation’s port system, the peak bodies highlight sky-rocketing fees and surcharges, creeping inefficiencies and the lack of productivity plaguing the country’s ports, which are continuing to impact freight operators and disrupt critical supply chains. The associations outline how stevedores’ infrastructure/access fees have risen in excess of 750 per cent; VBS booking fees up to 104 per cent; a 723 per cent increase in the cost per container in the last four years; and empty container park fees have risen on average 61 per cent since September 2020 – with no real productivity gains to show for it. The joint submission also argues that: “Ports, supply chain and freight are an important nexus for an island

Peak bodies say port carriers are being slugged with excessive charges around the country.

nation like Australia. Policy makers need to guard against creeping inefficiencies, the proliferation of costs and parasitic charges by third parties. In particular, road freight has all the carrier, contractual and legal responsibilities while earning the least and dealing with an ageing workforce.” The key recommendations from RFNSW and the ATA include: • Repeal of Part X of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 as it pertains

to shipper collective agreements. Their legal, but anticompetitive, behaviour has meant that shippers dictate terms collectively in relation to Australian ports; • Retention of the PBLIS (Port Botany Landside Improvement Strategy) regulation at Port Botany. A system that delivers 17- 45 minute turnaround times from a system that delivered 3 – 14 hour delays at Port Botany; • Independent price regulation of all surcharges, levies

at the port including but not limited to infrastructure access charges and software companies; • Increase investment in infrastructure to address inefficiencies in the supply chain caused by larger ships, lack of land transport access to Australian container ports and shortage of space in empty container parks; • Explore federal investment in training and skills for the Australian workforce specifically freight and logistics giv-

en the average age of a truck driver is substantially higher than the workforce average and the profit margin for freight companies is often less than two per cent; • Ensure by way of regulation reasonable container detention policies are administered; • Facility owners and operators (including ports) should be parties in the chain of responsibility under the Heavy Vehicle National Law, and • Regulation to end the use of long vehicle fees, which place pressure on increasing the number of truck trips required to move the freight task. This increases congestion, increases emissions and reduces productivity. RFNSW chief executive officer Simon O’Hara said he welcomed the opportunity to provide tangible solutions. “The significant strain our members have been under during the Covid pandemic has exacerbated the myriad of issues impacting industry and the effectiveness of our critical supply chains,” said O’Hara. “It’s therefore imperative that the PC consider our rec-

ommendations which will see land and maritime logistics work together to boost productivity and economic growth.” NatRoad also called for a range of waterfront reforms in its submission to the inquiry. It says long waiting times at port facilities to load and unload containers and cargo are placing massive strain on heavy vehicle operators – particularly owner operators. “These are eroding safety, contributing to driver shortages and compounding the impacts of the pandemic,” said CEO Warren Clark. “Fees that punish truck drivers for events like delayed or absent pickups are grossly unfair and should be abolished. “NatRoad also wants a cap applied to the steep rises in landside port charges that its members have experienced over the last five years.” The Productivity Commission was given eight months to examine the nation’s port system in a bid to boost profitability and operations across Australia’s wharves amid growing concern they are holding back the national economy. It is due to report back on its findings in August.

• Competitive Price • Natrad HDS Member • Air Radiators RSD • Charge Air Coolers Prices start from

$2585

00 1100

NOW CLEANING OUT DPF FILTERS ALSO restore existing charge air coolers at a competitive price

12mth Warranty

pressure tested with a zero leak policy We also supply Kenworth T600, T604 & T404 Mack Titan with and without Air Conditioning International Transtar S3600

• Freightliner •International • Kenworth • Mack •Western Star

YES, WE DO DELIVER METRO & AUSTRALIA WIDE

Access to more than 10 warehouses Australia-wide, we have the ability to service your needs across the country

Phone: 02 9637 3017 www.motoradcoradiators.com.au

LOCAL KNOWLEDGE, NATIONAL STRENGTH, GLOBAL NETWORK

Nth Coast & Qld Distributors Glen Eyears, 1/7 Wilson Street South South Lismore NSW 2480 P: 02 6622 3522 M: 0416 215 932 E: glen@lismoretruckandtrailer.com.au

4 NEWS

Truck ban proposal ‘ill-informed’

BY JAMES GRAHAM

QUEENSLAND’S peak trucking body has hit back at a campaign to have trucks taken off the busy Kuranda Range freight crossing in the state’s north. Queensland Trucking Association CEO Gary Mahon said the vocal push by Barron River MP Craig Crawford, and other supporters, to impose a blanket ban is yet another ill-informed, knee-jerk reaction to the supposed dangers that trucks pose on our roads. “As an industry we reject this type of reaction without any verified justification or analysis,” said Mahon.

“To ban trucks from the Kuranda Range would have a far-reaching impact on the region and substantially increase costs to the Tablelands’ community with trucks travelling an extra three hours over 230km one-way to deliver freight. “This has major impacts on input costs as well as a number of other impacts for the region.“ Mahon said the proposed truck ban shows a clear lack of understanding about the crucial role road freight plays in the area. He said the Tablelands region is a vital transport and services hub for northern Australia with major infrastructure investments made by large

transport businesses in recent years to manage the increase in freight volumes. Key impacts of limiting truck movements up the Kuranda Range include: • Major strain on the Mareeba Region which is in the top six fastest growing local government areas in Queensland. • Increase in costs due to using the alternative route on the Palmerston Highway. • Increase in Council waste disposal costs for waste that is currently transported from Cairns to Springmount west of Mareeba with a capacity of approximately 90k tonnes/ annum. 70-plus trucks movements per week would

have to be diverted up the Palmerston Highway. • Reduction in valuable exports via Cairns Airport from produce rich Tablelands and Lakeland Downs Region (gross value in excess of $600 million worth of produce) • Reduction in Cairns exports as most of the generated $1,331 million (in 2019/20) comes from Tablelands Region • Increased manufacturing, production and supply costs to business in the region. “Yes, it is unfortunate there has been some truck crashes [on the range] but no one has given us any analysis about who was the cause, rather than jumping

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

The QTA says banning trucks from using this busy road is not the answer. Photo: Alf Wilson

to the conclusion that it’s always our fault,” added Mahon. He said the QTA strongly suggests a more consultative approach that engages the industry and community to arrive at a solution that incorporates the necessary road infrastructure investment that is so desperately needed in the region. “In the current circum-

stances, clearly the road needs improvement so let’s get the right people around the table and develop a plan promptly and let’s get some work underway.” The recent $1.6m Tablelands road access report found the Kuranda Range Road was closed 44 times a year for an average of 6.6 hours.

Safer run for truckies on busy Scenic Rim freight route

TRUCKIES can look forward to a safer, smoother run along the much-maligned Beaudesert-Nerang Road, south of Tabragalba in the Scenic Rim Region of South-East Queensland. Local MP John Krause said it was a relief to have the $12 million upgrade finished after four years of lobbying to get

the road on the state government’s agenda. “Now on to the next because I know we still have a long way to go when it comes to our roads!” Krause said on his Facebook page. The surface of Beaudesert-Nerang Road was deeply rutted and cracked, but has now been rebuilt to be

“smoother, stronger and wider” while also having improved flood immunity through upgraded roadside culverts. Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport and Federal Member for Wright Scott Buchholz said the project complements other road investments currently underway in the region.

“We’ve already delivered the over $1 billion Toowoomba Bypass and funded 50 per cent of the Stoney Camp Road and Chambers Flat Road duplication of the Mount Lindesay Highway at Munruben, with an additional $53 million joint investment to follow for works between Johanna Street and South Street in Jimboomba.

“This builds on our previous investment of $16 million for Mount Lindesay Highway upgrades in North Maclean, and we are also jointly investing $150 million in various critical upgrades to the Cunningham Highway. The $12 million project was jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments.

More recently, another $209.36m was approved to support a further 46 road safety projects across the state, including many busy freight routes. They included an $8m widening of a section of Gulf Developmental Road, which is traversed by 35 per cent heavy vehicle/freight traffic.

HEAVY-DUTY AND AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS FleetRunner™ Micro-V® & V-Belts Automotive GreenStripe® Belts DriveAlign® Belt Tensioners Oil Resistant Hose Vulco-Flex® Hose Fuel Line Hose Automotive Radiator Hose Industrial Belts ID Hose Reducers Hose Clamps Merchandisers & much more!

MELBOURNE PH: (03) 9563 0000 SYDNEY PH: (02) 9756 5111 SEE A FULL RANGE OF OUR PRODUCTS AT WWW.SPARECO.COM.AU

NEWS 5

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Call for more rest area investment

BY JAMES GRAHAM

FIX the underfunded and “crumbling” road freight network and ramp up investment in more rest areas with better facilities for truckies. Those are just two of the key recommendations in the Australian Trucking Association’s (ATA) pre-budget submission, which said it had identified a critical gap in the Morrison government’s 10year $110 billion infrastructure investment pipeline. While heavy vehicle charges recover about $22 out of every $100 spent on roads, ATA analysis revealed that only $17 of that supports freight. That leaves an infrastructure gap of an estimated $4.7 billion, said the ATA. To ensure heavy vehicle charges are spent on freight infrastructure, Budget 2022-23 should include a new $5 billion truck roads and rest areas program over the 10-year infrastructure pipeline, the ATA’s submission believes. “This should incorporate the existing Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity

The ATA says it’s time rest areas for truckies were no longer treated as an after-thought.

Program, lifting the average annual spend from $76.35 million to $500 million (an additional $423.65 million annually).” The ATA also calls for the adoption of a national rest area strategy under the increased funding push before the government announces the next budget on March 29. “Rest areas are a critical part of the road network, but for too long they have been treated as an after-thought. This must change.” The ATA says the existing funding programs for rest areas are “woefully insufficient”. “Funding under the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program (HVSPP) is one of

the Australian Government’s main programs for funding rest areas, yet only 8.5 per cent of HVSPP investment is going to rest areas, parking bays and decoupling sites ($22 million out of $259.3 million in Australian Government funding). “Approved projects from round six (2018) and seven (2020) will only result in 15 new rest areas from 226 projects. Considering the period of funding, the average annual spend on rest areas under the HVSPP is just $5.5 million.” The ATA believes a minimum of 20 per cent of the proposed $5 billion truck roads and rest areas program should be reserved for rest area projects.

“This would provide at least $100 million each year and establish fixing rest areas as a national priority.” The submission says the federal government also must take responsibility for funding and operating all major freight roads through the national highways program. It also says the government must take responsibility for granting access approvals for heavy vehicles on national highways. The submission calls for our national freight roads to be upgraded to meet minimum safety star ratings. For more details of the ATA pre-budget submission, turn to page 20-21.

Ministers agree to more law review consultation

THE Australian Trucking Association (ATA) said it was a step in the right direction to hear there would be more industry consultation on the long-running review of the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL). A recent meeting of the infrastructure and transport ministers announced they’d had a “productive discussion” about the review and emphasised the importance of close engagement with industry. The ministers agreed there needs to be further consultation before bringing back more detailed policy work for consideration at their next meeting. The ATA had earlier slammed any suggestion it is happy with the progress from the National Transport Commission on the HVNL overhaul, which began back in 2018. “We welcome this announcement because the ministers understand this is an industry issue and it’s vital they work with us,” said ATA chair David Smith. “The focus must be on industry and benefit the movement of goods and services throughout Australia. “Quite honestly, we’re furious that this hasn’t been done properly. Because of our frustration, we’ve drafted a version that puts industry at the very heart

WE ARE WORKING AS QUICKLY AS WE CAN ON THIS BUT WE’RE HAVING TO MAKE UP FOR LOST TIME BECAUSE OF THE FAILURE OF THE NATIONAL TRANSPORT COMMISSION TO MAKE ANY PROGRESS.” DAVID SMITH

of the legislation. “We are working as quickly as we can on this but we’re having to make up for lost time because of the failure of the National Transport Commission to make any progress.” Smith added that while the latest news around the HVNL review is promising, other big issues remain such as supply chain and driver shortages. “We know that national cabinet has got the transport ministers working on these issues and a resolution simply can’t come soon enough for the industry.” WA Labor Senator Glenn Sterle, the Shadow Assistant Minister for Road Safety, was also disappointed to learn that there was no specific discussions around the rampant supply chain issues: “If they consulted with industry, they would learn how serious this is!” he tweeted.

ISRI SEATS DEALERS SYDNEY 510 Victoria Street, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 Ph. 02 9756 6199, email: isri@isri.com.au, www.isri.com.au

BRISBANE 3/120 Gardens Drive, Willawong QLD 4110 Ph. 07 3275 2044, email: sales@isribrisbane.com.au, www.isribrisbane.com.au

MELBOURNE Unit 1/569 Somerville Rd, Sunshine West VIC, 3020 Ph. 03 9311 5544, email: sales@isrisunshine.com.au, www.isri.com.au

MACKAY 110 – 120 Maggiolo Drive, Paget QLD 4740 Ph. 07 4952 1844, email: admin@isrimky.com.au, www.isriseatsmackay.com.au

PERTH Unit 2/12 Adrian Street, Welshpool WA 6106 Ph. 08 9362 6800, email: info@mmtisri.com.au, www.mmtisri.com.au

DARWIN

TAMDELE, 21 Hakkinen Road, Wingfield SA 5013 Ph. 08 8347 1222, email: sales@gitsham.com.au, www.gitsham.com.au

Everydaydemands demandsare areincreasing, increasing, Safety is important. To achieve Safety you require comfort. Safety is important. Everyday Everyday demands are increasing, Safety is important. To achieve Safety you require comfort. To achieve youan require comfort. Make sureSafety you have ISRI Seat. Make sure you have an ISRI Seat. Make sure you have an ISRI Seat.

NEWCASTLE/HUNTER VALLEY Unit 2/13 Hinkler Ave, Rutherford NSW 2320 Ph 02 4932 0600, email: sales@hvss.com.au www.isri.com.au

Seating -on on ahigher higher level. Seating level. Seating - -on aahigher level. Seating - on a higher level. www.isri.com.au www.isri.com.au www.isri.com.au

T1/4P-A4-2

ADELAIDE

When moving Heavy Loads WhenWhen moving Heavy Loads moving Heavy Loads comfort equals Safety. comfort equals Safety. comfort equals Safety. T1/4P-A4-2

Mobile Sales and Service Ph. 08 8927 0986, email: info@isridarwin.com.au, www.isridarwin.com.au

6 NEWS

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckies launch first Harmony Day in Sydney

EXPERIENCED Sydney-based truckie Amar Singh tried his best to ignore the troubling signs of racism toward Indian drivers he saw out on the roads, hoping it would go away. But the final straw for the owner-operator, and founder and president of charity organisation Turbans 4 Australia, was seeing photographic evidence of truckies’ air bags being slashed. “This has gone beyond a joke, into criminal stuff now,” said Singh, who has been operating his own small Sydney metro transport company since 2004. “These people are putting others’ lives at risk.” To help close the divide and stamp out this abhorrent behaviour, Singh has joined forces with high-profile truckie Mike Williams to hold the industry’s first Harmony Day at the Liverpool Catholic Club in Sydney on March 20. Aiming to promote multiculturism under the theme ‘Everyone Belongs’, the family-friendly event also includes a show ‘n shine competition with sponsor Penske stumping up $1500 for first, $1000 for second and $800 for third-placed truck.

“It is our hope that we can show we’re better together,” said Williams, also the host of the popular On The Road podcast. “After all are we not all out there dealing with the same issues trying to feed the family and pay the bills? We don’t need divisive rubbish from within as well.” Singh believes that Australia’s lax licencing laws are the main cause of the issues that now exist: “Drivers can get a licence now in one day and it’s not acceptable.” “Who’s looking after this? The government is turning a blind eye and everyone is suffering.” Singh, for one, would never put an untrained driver behind the wheel of one of his trucks, and there are many other Indian operators who have similar high safety standards in their fleets. “I think there is a lot we can learn together, and shy away from all the stereotyping and racist rants; they don’t belong in 2022,” said Singh. “I believe that if you want bring about change, you have to bring people together.”

Amar Singh believes the best way to bring about change is to bring people together. Photo: Facebook

Disturbed by an increase in what he sees as intolerant, stupid and divisive behaviour, truckie Mike Williams has joined forces with Amar Singh to foster closer industry ties.

The desire to foster more mateship between drivers, a core value of the Turbans 4 Australia charity, is also at the heart of Singh’s proposal to launch a new union at the Harmony Day event in Sydney this month. Singh said the newly formed Australian Driver Welfare Union is open to drivers of all vehicles, but is quick to stress that he doesn’t want it to replicate the work of existing unions and associations.

promised Singh. Meanwhile, Singh is thrilled that Williams has agreed to come on as an ambassador and is on the lookout for more truckies to help the cause. “There are some really great people out there, but if the good ones stay silent, then the idiots will steer the ship into the iceberg.” For more information, or to help support the Harmony Day and/or union, you can contact

TRAIL-LINK

is a manufacturer of rugged, reliable connectors and accessories that won’t let you down!



Anti-kink air coils that don’t fade or split



Electrical coils with moulded plugs that don’t pull off, drop out, or pins that fail



EBS coils with robust, hard wearing cable for multivolt applications



Battery charging coils with or without Andersons



Plugs, sockets and accessories to complete your connections.

A COMPLETE RANGE OF PRODUCTS

“It’s more about driver welfare, and we want to get drivers being mates again. If someone has broken down, stop and have a yarn, instead of all this ‘us and them’ mentality. “We want to address the real issues that we all struggle with every day.” Lobbying to improve truckies’ rest area options in and around the main freight hubs on the east coast will be a major priority upon launching,

Singh at turbans4australia@ gmail.com or email Williams at mike@ontheroadpodcast.com. au. The Harmony Day on March 20 runs from 11am-5pm and is held in partnership with Multicultural NSW and Liverpool Council. Other features on the day include food stalls, multicultural performances, fireworks, jumping castle and petting zoo. “I’m proud to be part of it,” added Williams.

AIR COILS

ELECTRICAL COILS

EBS COILS

BATTERY CHARGER COILS

PLUGS

SOCKETS

ACCESSORIES

SPECIALIST PRODUCTS

FI ND T H E P E RFEC T FI T! FOR MORE INFORMATION ON TRAIL-LINK PRODUCTS PLEASE VISIT WWW.TRAIL-LINK.COM.AU OR CALL US ON (03) 9886 9004

Fatigue Management Solutions

The NEW VIESA Kompressor III The parking cooler* that saves on costs

Fuel saving - The driver doesn’t need to use the truck to let the parking cooler work because VIESA Kompressor III works only with truck batteries Longer battery life - The new automotive electronics reduce the charge/discharge cycles. This means that batteries have less stress and increase their life

The reliable, powerful parking cooler for a refreshing rest

Platinum / Internal

Total weight 14 kgs Battery consumption 12.3ah Most efficient on the market 780 mm

155 mm

560 mm

Quietest diesel powered unit on the market - only 60db Factory built Lombardini Auto battery monitoring system

Viesa Internal is fitted on the back wall Viesa Platinum is fitted on the roof Both quiet to run, cheapest cooling system on the market Suits both 12 & 24V trucks

The NEW Version III Whisper Quiet - Better Cooling The Koolkat is designed for Larger Sleeper Cabs This unit comes with 2 x auxiliary batteries and a charger which will charge as the truck is driving It works exceptionally well in all weather conditions, dry or humid

National Authorised Installers Truck Art Wagga

Truck Art Melbourne

Truck Art Adelaide

Daryl Robertson Auto

Niko’s Auto Electrics

K Craft Air

15 Lewington St Bomen NSW 2650 02 6926 0400

28-30 Dimboola Rd Horsham VIC 3400 03 5381 1532

8 Pinnacle Rd Altona North VIC 3025 03 8360 3166 105 Old Dookie Rd Shepparton VIC 3630 03 5821 3172

4 Mary St Mawson Lakes SA 5095 08 8262 6399

36 Banksia Rd Welshpool WA 6106 08 6247 9188

Hume Truck Technics 1 Queen St Wodonga VIC 3690 02 6024 2133

MVM Auto Repairs

6/130 Forrester Rd St Marys NSW 2760 02 9833 1900

Briskair

54 Reginald St Rocklea QLD 4106 07 3277 0980

www.truckart.com.au

Lic No: MVRL 15274

OPINION 8

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Bring back mateship

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

ONE of my favourite interviews was with Australia’s oldest truckie Peter Ward, a sprightly 95 at the time, and still going strong in Melbourne. I could have sat there all day listening to his stories. But what sticks with me most is how he lamented the loss of mateship between drivers. One day we just all seemed to get too busy to ask the bloke parked up if he needed a hand. It’s sad it’s come to that, and social media hasn’t helped in giving a certain faction a platform to drive an even bigger wedge between us. I’m talking about the racism toward Indian drivers. Yes, driving skills may be lacking in some cases, and that puts us all in danger, but let’s work together to fix the broken licencing system rather than perpetuate mindless racial stereotypes. Events like Harmony Day (see page 6) are a vital first step.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dangers of sleep apnea

EACH year in Australia, there are more than 1500 people killed on our roads and approximately 22,000 are seriously injured. So, I ask myself why is this? Now there is increasing recognition that problems with sleep do play a significant role in contributing to the toll mentioned above. Yes, lack of sleep and fatigue is estimated to be 20-30 per cent of all vehicle accidents. It is now common knowledge that prolonged wakefulness results in impairment similar to that of alcohol consumption.

My main concern is commercial drivers due to their increased amount of kilometres they have to drive daily, the amount of hours they stay awake, the continuous highway driving and the shifts they are required to work including the size of the vehicle, limited ability to take evasive action, resulting in impact often at high speed, which means greater risk of injury. Many studies confirm that the prevalence of sleep apnea in commercial drivers is higher than in the greater population. Suggestions say that drivers underestimate the severity of their

symptoms when their licence, and employment (commercial drivers) is at risk from a result of a sleep study. That brings me to the conclusion – drivers, be it commercial or not, under-report symptoms for fear of having their licence suspended, and are being irrational to themselves and a risk to other motorists. In the majority of cases, the person can continue to drive, so long as the person remains compliant with effective treatment. - Chrissy Cahill, Mackay Sleep Apnea Solutions Mackay

Australia

FIT AND FORGET. Explore a comprehensive range of premium quality Lighting and Electrical Products from HELLA at hella.com.au

Drivers need more respect

IT’S amazing how as drivers we keep hearing that there is now a truck driver shortage. We also keep hearing about the lack of driver training being the cause of the problem. Well I don’t believe that’s the biggest cause or problem with the shortage of truck drivers. The biggest factor in the truck driver shortage that we have here in Australia is the way truck drivers are treated in general, and in a lot of cases it’s badly. Many employers treat them as a necessary evil and most of the general public have absolutely no idea that just about

everything they need for everyday life depends on the services of road transport and its drivers. And as for most of the mainstream media bad stories about trucks and their drivers are a great filler for slow news days. To those people in Australia’s various governments and agencies and those whom run the various industry groups you really need to ask yourselves what’s wrong, because it seems that many of you have either forgotten what it is actually like to be on the road or have never been on the road. There are far too many

things that I can list to do it here, but here’s a few: The poor pay for doing the most dangerous job in the country bar none; poor facilities for truck drivers including the poor or lack of things like clean toilets, showers and meal rooms; not nearly enough parking anywhere, from our capital cities, our towns, in industrial areas or along our roads and highways right across Australia; way too much blame-shifting to truck drivers for the actions of others that have a cascading effect that inevitably gets dumped on the driver. - Epick Webb

is now

NOW STOCKS JAPANESE TRUCK PARTS TO SUIT

With 27 locations across Australia shop in-store or online at maxiparts.com.au

10 ONLINE

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

HOT WEB TOPICS

WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO READER CORNER? EMAIL US AT EDITOR@BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Footage of truckies’ close call

Retired truckie returns to driving

A HIGHWAY Patrol car was the last thing two truckies expected to see as they came around a blind corner doing around 100km/h at the bottom of a NSW hill on the Hume Highway. When Big Rigs shared the dashcam footage online, it left many of our readers shocked. The post on our website racked up almost 94,000 views in a week. “Looks like they need an incident response or road commander vehicle as well as the towie and copper to give a more comprehensive and advanced warning of hazardous situations,” suggested Michael Yates on Facebook. “Won’t be the last time a cop sits on the exit of a blind bend, I’ve nearly cleaned up a few in my time,” wrote Martin Oakley. “That could of ended bad

THE story of veteran North Queensland truckie Garth Roots recently coming out of retirement at 72 to get back behind the wheel again to drive for his son, garnered a great deal of interest online. Many Big Rigs readers applauded his efforts and many also shared similar stories. “I retired at 62 two years ago & now back working weekends with my old company. Actually enjoying myself,” Peter Denny commented on Facebook. “I am 71 and would love to come back on road trains again, Great life, great people, and the great outback, can’t fault it,” wrote Billy Clarke. “Good on him. RMS does make it harder with yearly medicals at that age but I think they are needed,” said Andrew Davies.

great job guys pulling it up,” added Wayne Phillips. While many praised the quick-thinking actions of the truckies. “Professional drivers showing exactly how professional they have to be. Good work guys, good work,” commented Kelli-Jo Hoffman.

“Well done to Julian and the Region Peak driver, handled very professionally. I hope the police learn something from this,” said Hayley Defina. Joe Nganga added, “Good job guys. Lucky you were all switched on, that could’ve ended badly.”

Skilful driving may have averted a major disaster on the Hume Highway about 30km north of the Marulan Southbound truck stop.

“Yep in the back of my head also, if my misses stops working or loses her job I reckon I might come back for the right job! 63 this year and miss the good old days, had a ball,” added Mike McDonald.

Shirleene Rogers wrote, “Just keeping the cogs going in the old head once a while.” While Wayne Howyarth reflected back, “Remember this bloke driving an Austin Healy when he was about 19 years old,” he said.

Veteran truckie Garth Roots was driving a Kenworth T909 Director, when he stopped to chat with Big Rigs.

Getting driver training right

The search for real answers

JERRY Brown-Sarre recently penned an opinion piece about the need to get things right when it comes to driver training in order to make our roads safer. “As a person who has done over 60 years in the industry, along with those of a similar vintage, we are called dinosaurs, but that doesn’t detract from the knowledge acquired from those years in the job and kilometres travelled,” he said. When we shared his column online, it got the conversation going. Paul Cotterill agreed with Brown-Sarre’s sentiment. “You are absolutely right. I am 56-years-old and started at 19. I’ve been a NSW Heavy Vehicle Trainer and Assessor for 9 years. I went through the ropes so to speak and got taught by real

THE TWU believes that when a transport worker does not make it home from work, their family and our transport community needs to know why, not just how the accident occurred. And our readers agree. On social media, Shane Brooke commented in response to TWU NSW/Qld state secretary Richard Olsen’s column on the issue. “WorkCover should investigate every fatal truck accident as a workplace death,” he said. Bruce Dyson agreed. “Well said, after all the truck cabin is our office. It’s a workplace just like any other job.” Adam Black commented, “Could you imagine a world where transport workers are shown the respect they deserve, in life and death, from OUTSIDE of the industry. We are just an expendable

Truck Drivers, not book worms,” he commented on Facebook. “You can see why us drivers are leaving, we got shown

the ropes by old school legends, now they are computer geeks, couldn’t tie a load down, let alone drive,” added Jak Dolan.

Jerry Brown-Sarre has been driving trucks since he was 16 and was inducted into the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame in 2005.

commodity.” “They need to be reported as workplace fatalities and incidents rather than a traffic incident. Then they will affect positive changes to the industry,” added Nicholas Sampson. While Neil Jackson shared

The TWU says it wants a reduction of the passivity of authorities when it comes to investigations into the transport worker deaths on the road.

NO MORE POLISHING Alcoa Dura-Bright® EV

Wheels

Alcoa Dura-Bright® Wheels clean with just soap and water, so there’s no need to polish. Available across our range of wheels, the patented technology significantly reduces maintenance labour and time costs.

TALK TO OUR EXPERTS

1800 955 191

durabrightevo.com.au

his story, “I was injured at work, required surgery 6 times in 3 years, haven’t worked for 4 years, will never be able to drive a truck again and was told by the union that they can’t do anything for me, but took my money off me for ten years.”

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

One act of kindness triggers a chain reaction

Scott Wilson delivered the donated hay to Daniel Kelly, in Edenhope, Victoria.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI WHEN Koroit based owner operator Scott Wilson heard the story of injured truckie Michelle Pillar, he wanted to find a way to help – now his act of kindness has led to another.

Michelle, 25, is a livestock truckie from Western Victoria who works for Boyle’s Livestock Transport. Earlier this year, she was involved in a horrific accident, where she was trapped in the truck for almost 12 hours. As a result of her injuries, both of her legs required

amputation. The Mortlake Roadhouse was quick to rally behind Michelle, launching a fundraiser, which attracted the generosity of many. To date, over $126,000 has been raised. Roadhouse owner Dion Symons placed a fundraising

bucket in the store, set up a bank account specifically for donations, is among numerous businesses selling ‘Give Em Hell Michelle’ stickers and he’s helped to auction off various donated items via the Mortlake Roadhouse Facebook page. So far, there have been

around 20 auction items up for grabs – among them was a B-double load of hay donated by Wilson – consisting of A-grade quality vetch and clover in the A trailer and barley straw in the B trailer. “Scotty, who owns Wilson’s Contracting, donated his hay and offered to transport it to wherever it was needed,” said Symons. Brian Evomr answered the call, placing the generous winning bid of $8000 – only he didn’t actually need the hay and wanted to donate it to someone who did. “Brian messaged privately on our Facebook page saying he’d really like to put a bid in and didn’t need the say so he so wanted to donate it,” explained Symons. Symons told Evomr that he was sure he’d find someone in need of the hay. Then just a few days later, he was alerted to a truckie in need of it when he was messaged by Shirl McCosker. The hay was donated to Daniel Kelly, who lives in Edenhope, Victoria – around three hours north of Mortlake Roadhouse. On

NEWS 11

January 21, there was a fire at his property, with all of his hay sheds and various equipment burnt to the ground. Last month, Wilson made the trip to Edenhope to deliver the hay to Kelly. He took to the Mortlake Roadhouse Facebook page to thank everyone involved: “Thankyou Mortlake Roadhouse, Shirl McCosker, Brian Evomr and Scott Wilson. You blokes are Amazing. You have made two bad situations work together to help us and Michelle out. We are so lucky to have people like you in our lives! Thank you again,” he wrote.

Injured truckie Michelle Pillar.

YOUR ONE STOP TRAILER PARTS SHOP. ROOF RAIL, CURTAIN STRAPS AND RATCHETS. SIGNAGE, AND ACCESSORIES

FIFTH WHEEL, SKID PLATES, KING PINS AND ACCESSORIES. LIGHTING AND REFLECTORS.

LANDING LEGS WOOD BOXES, TOOL BOXES AND WATER TANKS.

AIR BRAKE SYSTEMS, VALVES AND COILS.

MUD FLAPS, MUD GUARDS AND ACCESSORIES.

STRAPS, RATCHETS, CHAIN AND PALLET ANGLES.

AXLE AND SUSPENSION, BRAKE DRUMS AND PADS.

VISIT US, GIVE US A CALL, OR JUMP ONLINE TODAY. VICTORIA DERRIMUT (03) 8331 6128

NSW WETHERILL PARK (02) 9757 4944

QLD SALISBURY (07) 3275 1011

kruegernationalspares.com.au

12 NEWS

IN BRIEF Gibbs joins Bapcor Aftermarket giant Bapcor has increased its commitment to Australia’s heavy transport industry with the acquisition of Queenslandbased Gibbs Truck and Trailer Parts. Gibbs Truck and Trailer Parts joins Truckline, WANO, Diesel Drive and Diesel Distributors across Australia and New Zealand to provide aftermarket and OE, truck and trailer parts and accessories supporting all makes and models of North American, European and Japanese commercial vehicles. Operated as a family company since the 1950s, Gibbs increases Bapcor’s footprint to 59 branches nationwide. ACCC grants interim order Trucking and rail companies have been given special permission to work together to ensure supplies of food and other goods reach consumers in Western Australia and the Northern Territory. Acting on an application from Linfox, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has granted an urgent interim order allowing companies involved in the supply chain to cooperate and share information. Without the order, which is now in place until August, such cooperation could constitute a breach of Australian Competition law. Funding for greener fleets Heavy vehicle operators can now apply for a share of a $127.9 million pot designed to help fleets shift to new zero emissions vehicle (ZEV) technology over the next four years. The Australian Renewable Agency (ARENA) launched the Future Fuels Program last month, which allows heavy fleet operators funding towards “enabling infrastructure” and “some” support for vehicle costs. ARENA is also looking to fund projects that incorporate hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and refuelling infrastructure. The program is the latest iteration of the Australian government’s Future Fuels Fund. Boost for diesel storage Construction has started at the IOR Lytton Terminal to deliver 110 million litres (ML) of new diesel storage to the Brisbane market. Taking place in the Port of Brisbane precinct, the project involves repurposing IOR’s existing 50ML crude oil storage tank for diesel fuel storage and constructing two new tanks with combined capacity of 60ML. The project will create over 260 jobs in construction and prioritise local procurement. To date, over $14 million in project expenditure has been awarded to local businesses. The total budget for the project is approximately $50 million and IOR expects that up to 90 per cent of the budget will be awarded to Queensland suppliers.

Isuzu sights sector clean sweep IF you ask Andrew Harbison, director and chief operating officer of Isuzu Australia, it’s not a case of if Isuzu rolls out a new linehaul prime mover in this market, but when. Harbison was speaking to Big Rigs shortly after the Truck Industry Council (TIC) released its monthly sales tallies for January, 2022, which saw Isuzu again punch well above its weight in the Kenworth-dominated heavy-duty sector. Isuzu notched an impressive 127 sales (46 more than it recorded in the same month in 2021), to be just 23 shy of Kenworth’s 150-strong opening salvo for 2022, and 18 clear of third-place Volvo. It’s not the first time that the light and medium-duty powerhouse has made such an auspicious start against the linehaul mainstays. A long-time podium presence in the heavies, Isuzu grabbed top honours in January, 2017, and has been nipping at the heels of Ken-

worth and Volvo ever since. Not bad for a badge that for now mostly contests in the heavy-duty vocational sector with agitators and its popular ‘fit-for-purpose’ FY range. “One of my predecessors many, many years ago said that there was a desire and a belief that we could be number one in the heavy-duty market,” said Harbison. “Now, I’m not naïve enough to think that would be achieved easily but I think if we could get the right products and develop our presence in that true heavy end of the market, the true prime mover market, then that would be something we would be shooting for.”As for the timeline, Harbison joked that he’d love to have a prime mover he could sell in Australia today, but there are more than a few factors to align first. “It will become available, we’re not sure if that’s going to be next month, or next year. We’re just waiting for that sto-

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Isuzu made another impressive start to the year in the heavy-duty sales race with its popular vocational line-up.

ry to unfold at the moment,” he said. Internationally, Harbison said the Volvo-UD collaboration is something that Isuzu is keen to explore and “get a picture on”. In a new strategic

Andrew Harbison, Isuzu director and chief operating officer, is excited about what the future holds.

alliance finalised last year, Volvo transferred ownership of its UD Trucks business to Isuzu Motors with one of its goals to create the “best long-term conditions for a stronger heavy-duty truck business in Japan and across international markets”. “UD is now an Isuzu family-owned company and what that looks like at some stage in the future we’re not 100 per cent sure. But that UD product in the heavy-duty market is spec-for-spec, very good at the moment. “What else comes out of the Volvo [alliance], or even something like the Cummins collaboration from the US and Japan. We’ve made no secrets previously that maybe there is something we could look at there. “I think that any of us playing in this market at the moment is pretty excited. We’re on a cusp of major change. The new technology is coming, and the market is highly stimulated. It’s a fantastic time to be in the market.” Meanwhile, along with topping the overall truck sales

charts for 33 consecutive years, 2022 also marks Isuzu Trucks’ 50th anniversary in Australia. In celebrating the brand’s achievements, Harbison lauded the ‘Isuzu family’ past and present. “There’s little doubt the story of Isuzu in this country has been underpinned by a fantastic product, born out of a union between a Tokyo ship-building company and an energy producer back in 1916, both motivated by one clear vision – to build quality vehicles,” said Harbison. “Although, perhaps hidden somewhat is the story of the people, and the commitment of those people in delivering superior support, better ideas and the best service in the business.” Harbison singled out former director and chief operating officer Phil Taylor for special mention: “Phil’s legacy at IAL is as storied as it is lasting. Coming from a truck sales background, Phil brought some street smarts to the leadership at IAL and can be credited with modernising the Isuzu dealer footprint from a sales perspective.”

Regulator approves sixth EWD for truckies HEAVY vehicle operators now have the choice of six providers for their Electronic Work Diaries (EWDs), with the NHVR approving the Hubfleet app last month. Founder James Doherty, a civil engineer by profession, tells Big Rigs that one of the main points of difference with Hubfleet is that it works across all jurisdictions, including WA, and can be used on any device. At the time of writing, the NHVR site only had Hubfleet certified for use on an iPhone XR and Samsung Galaxy S9, but Doherty assures us that would be updated soon to reflect its universal compatibility with all Android and Apple handsets and hardware. “We really wanted to build a modern application that followed the way people consumed products in today’s environment,” said Doherty. Users simply pick a plan to suit their needs, starting from as little as $19 per month, download the app onto their chosen device, and they’re ready to go.

Truckies can then pick how much on-going support they need while out on the road. “You can choose to operate it on a completely self-service basis, or if you need help, we can help of course,” Doherty said. There are some pretty nifty features built in already, including an easy-to-use dashboard that does all the important sums so you don’t have to and keeps tabs on your work totals over long periods. For fleet operators, there is also an integrated telematics package that gives a bird’s eye view of your fleet on a map in real-time. “You can see where drivers are and where they’re making work or rest changes. “You can easily set up geofences to automatically send a customised SMS or email messages to your team, customers or CoR partners when a driver enters an area on a map.” Doherty says early feedback from drivers has already been very positive with some saying

they’re getting half an hour a day extra, or another 50km each day on the road as a result of making the EWD switch. “One of the reasons being is that the EWD works to the nearest minute rather than in 15-minute blocks. “So, if you’re pulling up for three rests a day and rounding up, it pretty quickly adds up to half an hour [of extra time], plus it takes care of all the other sums you needed to do.” Doherty says Hubfleet also accommodates those drivers wanting to use an EWD while still working for a company that prefers the paper system. At the end of each shift, a pdf of records for the last 28 days is automatically emailed to each user who can then just hit forward and send it on to their employer. Since EWDs were officially approved as an alternative to the paper diary in November, 2020, an estimated 2000-3000 drivers have embraced the new technology. “The more EWD options we approve, the more take-

The Hubfleet EWD app can be downloaded to any device.

up we’re seeing by operators wanting to better manage their fatigue risk and keep their drivers safe,” said NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto. “The Hubfleet app offers a national solution, as it covers Standard, Basic Fatigue Management and custom Advanced Fatigue Management rule sets,

as well as Western Australia’s accreditation scheme rules. When first starting to use an EWD, the NHVR also reminds drivers that they must continue to carry their written work diary for a transition period to comply with the requirement to carry 28 days of records.

SELLING MACHINERY? Get better results with Ritchie Bros.

Whether your company is big or small, Ritchie Bros. can sell your trucks— quickly and easily. Our all-inclusive service means we take care of the entire selling process for you, so you can take care of your business. Call our friendly team to discuss your options today.

1300.139.344 | rbauction.com.au We make it easy with permanent sites in Brisbane, Geelong, Adelaide, Perth, Mittagong, and Dubbo.

14 COVER STORY

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Built in ’78 and resto still going great

After a two-year rebuild, Barry Rolfe has this stunning 1978 International ACCO ready to tackle the toughest tasks.

Barry and Jill Rolfe with great-granddaughter, Lexie and the ACCO.

The 1978 3070/B has been beautifully restored.

BY DAVID VILE “I only ever drove one 3070 in my life, around 1973-1974… Willaton’s in Morwell owned one. It was a single drive, but I always had a bit of an attraction to them, and this one came up.” And so started the restoration of a 1978 International ACCO 3070/B for Barry Rolfe of Eden, with the project resulting in an immaculate and eye-catching vehicle. With a lifetime working in road transport, Rolfe saw the truck advertised in a magazine in Beaudesert and got another life-long trucking associate (and expert truck restorer) Alby Twyford to check the truck out on his behalf. “Alby went and had a look at it for me, the old bloke selling it put two batteries in it and away it went,” recalled Rolfe. “I paid $7000 for it, everything was there so didn’t have to chase a lot of parts and he threw in the turntable and a fuel tank. “I carted a crane up to Canberra and I just kept going! She started up and we dropped it on

the trailer in November 2017. We have had it done now for a bit over 12 months.” Upon its return to Eden, the ACCO underwent a considerable amount of restoration both in Rolfe’s shed and a bit further up the coast at Bega. With the radiator replaced, and the back brakes, diff and seals all receiving some attention, CB Smash Repairs in Bega was tasked with sandblasting the cab and repairing a few dings in the panel work the truck had acquired over its working life. Slotted between the chassis rails is a Cummins 903 motor which back in the day was pretty much a standard fit to most 3070’s. Having run Cummins powerplants in all his own trucks over the years Rolfe found the engine in good working order and left it relatively untouched, but found it to be somewhat of a ‘smoker’ when it hadn’t been kicked over for a while. “The day we got it fired up to take it to get rego’d , we took it to the top of Bellbird [a

The International has been overhauled from end to end.

long pull uphill on the Princes Highway out of Eden]. “There was that much blue smoke people in cars were blowing their horns at us. “I had been told to give it a bootful and by the time I got to the top she was as clear as anything. I took it to the Candelo Show the other week, same thing happened as it had been sitting in the shed for a couple of months.” The Cummins is naturally aspirated and without a turbocharger has an output of around 300 horsepower which might seem modest today for a linehaul truck but back in the day Rolfe reckons the 903 was a good way to go. “Back in the 70s I had done a lot of interstate out of the paper mills. These 3070’s and then later the Louisvilles came out with the 903’s. By jeez, a lot of blokes made a lot of money, a lot of operators used to run 3070’s and they got good runs out of them - and the Cummins brand says it all.” With the interior and exterior all overhauled, the finish-

ing piece was the alloy bulbar which was built by Whitlock’s, who Rolfe reckons went the extra mile to make sure it was made to fit. “I rang Whitlock’s, the bloke said yeah we can do you a bar, he rang back a bit later and he said ‘we are going to send a fella up to Eden from Melbourne to measure it all up.’ They did so and away they went - they started from scratch but I was very happy with that,” he said. The ACCO was a faded shade of green in colour when Rolfe picked it up and he decided to respray the truck in the same colour which is complemented by the red chassis and spider wheels. “All the trucks I had, previously were blue and white and silver which I thought was an immaculate paint scheme, but I always had a thing for green,” he explained. “The green I had never had before - when you go back into the factory colour sheets it was an original International Harvester colour. The later 3070’s, particularly the Eagles went into cross colours and stripes and all that sort of thing.” The restored 3070 made its first big trip last year, heading to Melbourne and then

up Highway 31 as part of the Crawlin’ the Hume event, with the clutch and gearbox getting some attention on its return to Eden. “She didn’t use a skerrick of oil, but I had a bit of clutch trouble, so we pulled the box out, and put a new clutch in and also made it an overdrive box. It would sit on 2800 revs at 100k’s. Now it’s about 1900 revs, so she lopes along really good,” he said. As mentioned earlier, Rolfe has had a lifetime in road transport, starting out in a Bedford with the Twyford family: “I had two options, either go to school or get a job!” he said with a grin. Stints driving International R200’s and DCF’s followed and along the journey he had a couple of shots running as an owner driver, firstly in an International Transtar tipper around Morwell in Victoria, and later with a Mack on interstate. “I didn’t go broke, but I didn’t make much money! It was bloody hard, and I gave it away.” Rolfe, wife Jill and their family returned to Eden in 1979, spending the next 11 years working for local fuel and log haulers LW and CK

The 3070 was in a tired state prior to its two-year restoration.

Cocks until an opportunity to become an owner-driver on timber cartage popped up. “We purchased a 1990 Value Liner Mack with a bogie jinker and carting job and I just blitzed it from there, when then got a Mack CH, then a Trident and then a Superliner, a Western Star and a Kenworth.” He also bought into a local taxi business with the Rolfe operation at its peak running three trucks, taxis around the Eden area and employing nine people. Rolfe was inducted into the Road Transport Hall of Fame in 2019. Beside the shed at his Eden address is the next project, a 1979 Freighter trailer which is about to start being overhauled to match up to the ACCO. The long-term plan is to put the ASC-160 on the trailer to do the historic truck show circuit along with other events. But, if he were to be given the chance to haul a load interstate, or indeed across the Nullarbor, Rolfe reckons the old 3070 would be up for the task. “The motor ticks over like a charm and she goes really well - she’s still noisy though! Would I hook it up and take it to Perth tomorrow? Bloody oath I would!”

FEB—MAR 2022

CHECK THE CATALOGUE ONLINE

PACCARPARTS.COM.AU/CATALOGUE

CT18 Truck Wash

ELC40 Coolant Silicated Organic Acid Technology (Si-OAT) First fill in all Kenworths built with a Cummins engine, meets Cummins specification CES 14603

Powerful Concentrated Cleaning Formula Removes the Toughest Dirt & Grime

ELC40-5M 5L $26.50 $29

LIMITED EDITION 25 LITRE PACK SIZE

ELC40-20M

ELC40-20M 20L $100 $118

CT18-25L

Power Take Off

Hood Assist Spring

MEMBERS FROM

709

MEMBERS

340

SAVE

$30

NON-MEMBERS FROM

739

NON-MEMBERS

KW008-51L200

KW008-51L200 $709 $739 PTO-8 bolt Hydreco ‘08’ output L2 airshift, Suits Eaton Ultrashift & Roadranger transmissions

370

Suits T403, T409, T609

MEMBERS

SAVE

$30

MSS1046-00000-041

KW08A-503L20 $1,019 $1,049 PTO-8 bolt Hydreco ‘08’ output L2 airshift with mech switch, Suits PACCAR & Eaton Endurant transmissions

Compact UHF CB Radio

Charge Air Cooler MEMBERS FROM

MEMBERS

1,895

330

NON-MEMBERS FROM

NON-MEMBERS

1,995

MEMBERS

SAVE

$15

345

1E4836 $1,895 $1,995 Used on K108 & K104/B

5W 80 Channel Scansuite™ Digital Signal Processing & Dynamic Volume Control

MEMBERS

SAVE

1E5726 $2,995 $3,095 Used on T404SAR, K108

QUALITY PARTS

ELC40-5M

$100 |

1E4836

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

TX3500S

EXTENSIVE DEALER NETWORK

Prices herein are recommended selling prices for both Privileges members and non-members, inclusive of GST. Recommended selling prices are a guide only and there is no obligation for Dealers to comply with these recommendations. Freight charges may apply. All items have been included in good faith on the basis that goods will be available at the time of sale. Prices and promotions are available at participating Dealers from 1 February to 31 March 2022 or while stocks last.

* Calls from Australian landlines are generally free of charge whilst calls from mobile phones are typically charged based on the rate determined by the caller’s mobile service provider. Please check with your mobile service provider for call rates.

We are unfortunately experiencing shipping delays which means some products may not be in store on the advertised on-sale date. We are trying our best to limit these delays and at the time of publishing, advertised product sale dates are correct; however, they are subject to change due to factors outside our control.

16 EXPLAINER

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

How High Court judgments impact transport industry Earlier last month, two landmark decisions were handed down with wide-spread ramifications for trucking in Australia.

IF you were going to summarise industry reaction to the landmark High Court judgment in the long-running ZG Operations v Jamsek case in two words, ‘welcome relief’ were probably the most common being bandied around. At least that was the consensus amongst the pundits that Big Rigs contacted for reaction to the news that there was finally some badly needed certainty around the all-toomuddy waters of how to distinguish between contractors and employees. But first a quick recap of the case for those who haven’t been following along. The drivers in question, Martin Jamsek and Robert Whitby, had been employed by Thorn EMI straight from school and continued to drive for the same business until retirement 40 years later by which time the business had become known as ZG Operations. Around eight years into the job they were offered contracts involving them purchasing vehicles from their employer with the contracts stating that they were now independent contractors. The Federal Court initially confirmed that they were indeed contractors, but that decision was overturned by

WA Senator Glenn Sterle looks forward to the dam walls bursting open.

the Full Court of the Federal Court on appeal, ruling that they were employees. The Full Court’s decision took many in the industry by surprise, said lawyer Paul Murray, a transport employment specialist at Bristow Legal. “The main reason for this surprise was that both owner-drivers had purchased and operated their own vehicles,” said Murray. “Mr Jamsek had also bought a new truck in 1989 for $70,000 and Mr Whitby in 1990 for somewhere be-

tween $70,000 and $80,000. In addition, both drivers had set up partnerships with their respective wives and were paid through those partnerships. Until the Full Court decision the widely held view (referred to by both the Full Court and the High Court as the ‘conventional view’) was that when a contract was with a company or partnership and particularly when that business had to provide equipment as substantial as a heavy vehicle, the owner driver could safely be assumed to be a contractor.

The QTA says operators can continue without fears of unexpected claims.

The High Court handed down two important decisions for the industry.

“Although the High Court was not unanimous in its reasons for finding the drivers to be contractors, the majority accepted that the ‘conventional view’ was correct. More importantly perhaps the majority also ruled that where there is a clear, written contract, and no other legal concerns, the contract itself determines the question of whether an owner driver is an employee or a contractor.” Murray said that if the contract setting out the relationship clearly describes a contract for services, then there will be no employment relationship. “If the contract is only partly in writing, if there is a claim that it is a sham or contrary to some other legal or statutory provision, or if it is claimed that the parties have changed the contract over time (whether those changes have been recorded in writing or not), then a court might need to apply the multi-factor test. However, if none of those exceptions apply, the question is answered by looking at the contract. “This alone provides a significant amount of certainty to businesses that was previously lacking.”

The National Road Transport Association said the judgment draws a line in the sand for the status of owner-drivers. “This is a hugely significant judgment for our industry,” said NatRoad CEO Warren Clark. “It shows that owner drivers are independent contractors and that contracts with business entities should be upheld. The High Court found that the owner-drivers were not employed by the company. “They were members of partnerships which carried on the business of providing delivery services to the company. “The formal contractual arrangements have been given priority by the High Court. “This means that participants in the road transport industry must ensure that they don’t sign a contract and put it in the bottom drawer. It is an essential business tool.” Queensland Trucking Association CEO Gary Mahon also called on operators to review their written arrangements with independent contractors to ensure they include terms that explicitly address the nature of the arrangement

and the degree of control the independent contractors have over their own business. “This decision demonstrates the value written agreements have in avoiding future disputes and, where written agreements with independent contractors are missing, operators are encouraged to begin preparing contracts that reflect current practice,” said Mahon. Mahon welcomed the decision because road freight businesses that engage independent contractors can continue to operate without fear of unexpected claims and costs due to having historically misclassified that relationship. “With a longer-term view, we are yet to see if the decision will encourage operators to explore different models of operation that may benefit the industry. “It could also mean that those businesses who have been unsure about engaging independent contractors in situations where the contractor may only be driving for them, due to the risk of misclassification, can now feel safe to explore this as an option. If done successfully, this provides both with more secure work.”

Senator puts transport labour hire companies on notice after backpacker decision “May the dam walls burst open!” Tweeted WA Labor Senator Glenn Sterle upon hearing the news that a young backpacker engaged by a labour hire business to work as a labourer on a construction site was indeed deemed to be an employee, rather than a contractor. Sterle was referring to the other High Court decision last month, CFMMEU v Personnel Contracting Pty Ltd, which is expected to also have less scrupulous

transport operators rethinking their employment strategies. “The law has finally caught up with these parasitic labour hire firms!” added former truckie Sterle on Twitter, later explaining to Big Rigs that his low opinion of the sector harks back to his days as a union organiser. “It’s a unique decision and I welcome it with open arms. When I see these bastards using labour hire companies I just seethe because it’s

done to undermine the decent people who do the right thing. “Hopefully the decent operators now have a level playing field.” In his summary of the case, Brisbane lawyer Paul Murray said the decision shows that merely using ‘labels’ such as ‘contractor’ will not determine the outcome; the whole contract has to be considered. The High Court found that, despite the written

contract describing the worker as a ‘contractor’, the backpacker was actually an employee. This was because the contract itself set out terms that the Court found to be the terms of an employment contract. “Both of these findings should be welcomed by the industry,” added Murray. “A properly drafted contract should give the parties certainty as to what has been agreed, and

where the party contracting to provide the service is a partnership or a corporate entity or where they supply a vehicle, a presumption that they are not employees is a reasonable one. Key takeaways: • A written contract is the key to being able to rely on the certainty that this decision has brought. • The decision in CFMMEU v Personnel Contracting shows that the written contract must

still be put together with care if it is to bring that certainty. (The contract must match the ‘labels’ used.) • Written contracts should be adhered to. Don’t start treating a driver like an employee if their contract says they are a contractor. • Contracts should make clear that they are for the carriage of goods, not for the provision of drivers or for the driving of vehicles.

FEBRUARY - MARCH CATALOGUE OUT NOW!

trpparts.com.au/catalogues

ALUMINIUM WHEEL

SPRING EYE BUSH

MEMBERS FROM

275

MEMBERS

44.95

MEMBERS

SAVE

$20

NON-MEMBERS FROM

295

NON-MEMBERS

49.95

10x285 PCD, 22.5” x 8.25” 8-22-285B3

$275 $295 Buff Finish

8-22-285P3

$305 $325 Polished Both Sides

MEMBERS

SAVE

Suits Western Star & Freightliner, FAS II Airliner Series Trucks AV011TRP

NEW SHOCK ABSORBER

AIR SPRING

MEMBERS FROM

TRP21221307

110ea

MEMBERS

147

NON-MEMBERS FROM

120

NON-MEMBERS

152

SA004TRP $114 $124 Suits Neway Suspension - AD246-10” SA006TRP $110 $120 Suits Hendrickson Suspension - HT230, HT300 & T15/17 SA007TRP $115 $125 Suits TMC/York Suspension - LMC - Tecair FB / VRH SEE IN STORE FOR COMPLETE RANGE

MEMBERS

SAVE

$10

TRP21221307 $147 $152 Suits Various ROR Suspensions AS87090 $144 $154 Suits Hendrickson Intraxx AA230 SEE IN STORE FOR COMPLETE RANGE

NEW TRAILER PARTS CATALOGUE Parts for Trucks...& Trailers too!

VOLUME ONE OUT NOW! To order your hardcopy contact your nearest dealer

Freecall* 1800 PPARTS (772 787) Visit paccarparts.com.au/trailer or scan the QR code to download or order your copy now!

FREECALL* 1800 TRPART (877 278)

ONE PHONE NUMBER TO CONNECT WITH 59 DEALERS AUSTRALIA WIDE Prices herein are recommended selling prices for both Privileges members and non-members, inclusive of GST. Recommended selling prices are a guide only and there is no obligation for Dealers to comply with these recommendations. Freight charges may apply. All items have been included in good faith on the basis that goods will be available at the time of sale. Prices and promotions are available at participating Dealers from 1 February to 31 March 2022 or while stocks last.

18 FEATURE

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Third generation truckie continues kicking goals

Following in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother, father and grandfathers, MC driver Jessie Freeman is keeping her family’s trucking tradition alive.

MC drivers Candice Lureman, Jessie Freeman and Stefanie Teixeira Stevens recently featured in Women in Trucking’s Australia’s Will YOU Be Next? road safety campaign.

Freeman with her mother Karen and a truck featuring a tribute to her father at the 2019 Victorian Truck Drivers’ Memorial in Alexandra.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

“When I look back now, Poppa Graham and my dad were very influential in my choice to go down this track later in life with truck driving.” Her father Daryl worked for Booth Transport, carting ethanol, wine and spirits in B-double tankers. Freeman says she spent a lot of time in the truck. “Dad would go away for weeks at a time, but if he knew he was just going away for a day or so, I’d go with him. “I was about 16 when I first drove a truck. My friend Kurt taught me my way around a gear box.” Freeman has been with McMahon Services for about nine months, driving a brand new Volvo 600. “I share the truck. I

JESSIE Freeman was just three weeks old when she made her first trip across the Nullarbor, and it was in a road train with her parents, Daryl and Karen. It was the first of many trips over many years. Freeman has been in and around trucks all her life and became fascinated by them very early on. Based in SA, the 29-yearold truckie works for McMahon Services Australia, pulling truck and dogs and stag B-double tippers out of Blanchetown, SA – all of which she loads and unloads herself. Freeman comes from a long line of truckies, her mother’s parents Gilbert Anderson and Yvonne owned a transport company on the west coast of SA, but they divorced in the early 1970s and Yvonne often drove one of the trucks to help out. Yvonne then met Graham Paterson. They went into trucks in the early 1970s and then bought Balaklava Transport in 1987, in SA’s Mid North Region. They owned the business until 2002 when ill health forced Yvonne to retire. “She was the backbone of the business, managing the office,” said Freeman. “My mum Karen Freeman was the all-rounder in the family business – she was the forklift driver, loading and unloading trucks, working in the office and running to Adelaide loading leftover freight. They were a family business. “My father Daryl Freeman drove road trains to Perth, Darwin and Queensland, do-

ing market, mine shifts and general freight. Mum and him drove and the bunk was my second home until I started school. Sadly my father passed away suddenly in 2006, aged 42. My father’s father Robert Freeman was also a truck driver and drove for years for Carbone Transport at Gol Gol. “I’ve been around trucks my whole life, growing up in the bunk or hanging around the transport depots, I guess it was inevitable. “Dad would come home from being away, and the portable DVD players had only just come out, so he’d put it on in the bunk for me and I’d watch while he detailed the truck. I’d get all these little Hot Wheels cars and trucks

he’d bring home for me.” Freeman got her HC licence at 19 and progressed to her MC licence during a seven-year stint living in Victoria – though she’s been back in SA for the past two years. Despite trucking being firmly intertwined into her family’s history, Freeman says her mum wasn’t too keen on the idea to start off with. “Mum didn’t want me to do it in the beginning. She said interstate these days is too hard, but she came around. Dad passed away when I was 13, so I couldn’t get the advice from him. It was actually Dad’s best mates that offered me advice and help, because it is a pretty hard industry,” Freeman explained.

Jessie Freeman, aged around 7, with her late father Daryl Freeman at the Booth depot in Nuriootpa, SA.

do permanent days and there’s a guy that does permanent nights. It used to be rotating when I started but they’ve worked with me to balance with my home life,” she said. “I also hold and use my front end loader ticket on the daily as I load myself out of the quarries with a WA 470 Komatsu loader.” Previously working as an interstate truckie, Freeman is now enjoying being able to spend more time at home with her partner and six-year-old stepson Marcus. Though there are elements of interstate trucking she misses, there’s a lot that she doesn’t. “When Covid started, I was still on interstate. I was doing a lot of Adelaide to Melbourne,

A snapshot from the recent television ad she appeared in.

Canberra, into Queensland, carrying stock feed, mainly the east coast. Sometimes two to three trips to Melbourne a week carting salt. It was really hard through Covid, even just trying to get showers got really difficult. And then I had people that wouldn’t believe that I’m a driver. I’m dirty, giving you truck keys and wearing a work shirt – so that was really frustrating. And there was the consistent hassle of having to be tested two to three times a week,” explained Freeman. “I do miss interstate and being away, and living on the road, but I love home life too. What I enjoy most about truck driving are the views and the people you get to meet. On the beautiful days, there are the sunrises, the sunsets – I love travelling. I always have.” Away from trucks, Freeman has had a lifetime of showing horses at the highest level, including being selected to represent Australia at the Quarter Horse Youth World Cup in Oklahoma City in 2010. Freeman then spent three years travelling and working in the USA, training and showing Quarter Horses with much success at the highest level, but the trucks were always in the back of her mind – and that drew her back. Freeman was also recently chosen by Women in Trucking Australia (WiTA) to take part in a Christmas road safety television campaign titled Will YOU Be Next? She starred alongside several other female MC truck drivers. Funded by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s (NHVR) Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, the campaign’s aim was to educate motorists on how to share the roads safely with trucks.

CAPPED PRICE SERVICING

WE CAN OFFER YOU ANNUAL CAPPED PRICE SERVICING FOR THE ENTIRE FUSO TRUCK AND BUS RANGE. With Fuso Capped Price Servicing, you can now get capped, upfront, totally transparent pricing for your Fuso model.* That’s great value for Fuso Genuine Parts and factory trained technicians.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO CALCULATE YOUR SERVICE COST.

CONTACT YOUR AUTHORISED LOCAL FUSO DEALER OR VISIT FUSO.COM.AU

Terms and Conditions apply. Fuso Capped Price means the maximum capped price payable in accordance with these Terms and Conditions for the relevant Standard Scheduled Service as published here www.fuso.com.au/Capped-Price-Servicing, which is capped for the full calendar year from participating authorised Fuso Dealership only.

20 FEDERAL BUDGET 2022-23

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Peak body makes case for federal budget essentials

The Australian government should assume responsibility for major freight roads through the national highways program.

With the federal budget for 2022-23 announced later this month, the Australian Trucking Association has made its pitch for industry funding across three key areas: roading, rest areas and a net zero truck incentive package. In a detailed pre-budget submission, the ATA says the pandemic has illustrated that trucking is vital to the “fabric of the Australian community”, keeping us supplied and connecting exporters to markets. Below is an edited extract from the ATA’s three main recommendations to ensure supply chains continue to operate at their peak. Give feds control of major freight roads The Australian government should utilise its national leadership and constitutional role to ensure Australians, wherever they live, have access to high quality national highways to provide access to goods, markets, jobs, services

and community. Whilst the Australian Constitution does not provide a direct head of power for roads, there are provisions for amending the constitution (either a referral of powers or referendum) and the Commonwealth maintains powers for trade and commerce with other countries, and among the States. The Australian Parliament has previously used this power to legislate for interstate road transport. The constitution also provides for the Parliament to grant financial assistance to any State on such terms and conditions as the Parliament thinks fit. The Australian government already funds the National Land Transport Network (often 80 per cent in regional areas, and 50 per cent in metropolitan areas). The ATA has consistently advocated that this funding should be tied to achieving outcomes on safety and pro-

ductivity. In light of the importance of national truck routes, the Australian government should assume responsibility for major freight roads through the national highways program. This should include funding and operational responsibilities, including granting access approvals for heavy vehicles. The current scope of the National Land Transport Network should be reviewed to ensure it includes all major truck routes. Upgrading national freight roads to meet minimum safety star ratings, national rest area guidelines, productivity outcomes and mandatory service level standards. With responsibility for funding and operating national freight roads, the Australian government should ensure safety and productivity outcomes are achieved. This should include ensuring the entire national highway network meets minimum safe-

ty standards, rest area guidelines, and heavy vehicle access by notice approvals to boost productivity. The National Service Level Standards Framework, currently under development, will implement a number of metrics for measuring the level of service provided to road users. This will include metrics on safety, rest areas, heavy vehicle access, mobile phone coverage, electric recharging and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, travel time, road quality and resilience. For national highways, these service level standards must be mandatory. The Australian government should deliver investment plans which ensure national highways meet minimum service levels and have ongoing maintenance funding. Mandatory service levels would ensure that regional and remote sections of the national highway network are not ignored.

Rest areas are a critical part of the road network, but for too long they have been treated as an after-thought.

AllTYPE

AXLE Phone 07 5464 3413

Corrections

Easy Access and Turning

Out of Vehicle Axle Corrections

Truck and Trailer Repairs and Maintenance

King Pins & Axle Eye Resleeving

Suspension Repairs

Insurance & Private Work

Air Conditioning

150 Tonne Press

20mins from Rocklea

Crack Testing

TRUCKS

Differential and Gearbox Over-hauls

BUSES 4W-D’S

Ph. 5464 3413

1800 625 746

FEDERAL BUDGET 2022-23 21

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Two forms of charging infrastructure will be required to support electric truck fleet operations.

Establish a national rest area strategy ATA analysis of the 10-year $110 billion infrastructure pipeline reveals a gap between the level of heavy vehicle charges collected and investment in road infrastructure projects for freight purposes. This infrastructure gap is an estimated $4.7 billion. To ensure heavy vehicle charges are spent on freight infrastructure, Budget 2022-23 should include a new $5 billion truck roads and rest areas program over the 10-year infrastructure pipeline. This should incorporate the existing Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program, lifting the average annual spend from $76.35 million to $500 million (an additional $423.65 million annually). Funding under the $5 billion truck roads and rest areas program should be subject to assessment by an independent panel, including industry representatives and truck drivers. Rest areas are a critical part of the road network, but for too long they have been treated as an after-thought. This must change. Truck rest areas are critical to managing fatigue, improving road safety, enabling productivity and ensuring truck

drivers are treated with respect. However, existing funding programs for investment in rest areas are woefully insufficient. Funding under the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program (HVSPP) is one of the Australian Government’s main programs for funding rest areas, yet only 8.5 per cent of HVSPP investment is going to rest areas, parking bays and decoupling sites ($22 million out of $259.3 million in Australian Government funding). Approved projects from round six (2018) and seven (2020) will only result in 15 new rest areas from 226 projects. Considering the period of funding, the average annual spend on rest areas under the HVSPP is just $5.5 million. A minimum of 20 per cent of the ATA’s proposed $5 billion truck roads and rest areas program should be reserved for rest area projects. This would provide at least $100 million each year and establish fixing rest areas as a national priority. Australia needs a national rest area strategy to deal with our long-term chronic undersupply of truck rest areas. This proposal has wide industry support. Deliver a net zero incentive package Australia’s long-term emissions

CUSTOM KITS FOR

YOUR TRUCK

reduction plan sets out the Australian Government commitment to net zero emissions by 2050, including an emissions reduction of up to 71 per cent for transport. At the same time, Australia’s freight volumes are projected to increase by over 35 per cent between 2018 to 2040, with urban freight increasing by nearly 60 per cent in the 20 years to 2040. In Europe, it has been reported that whilst the transition to zero emission trucks is underway, this transition is not proceeding fast enough to meet climate goals. Multiple reports indicate that both infrastructure and vehicle cost are having a significant impact on the rollout of zero emission trucks. Australia lags significantly behind Europe in the take up of zero emission trucks and the availability of zero emission truck models. Australian operators and manufacturers have cited a number of barriers to uptake of zero emission trucks in Australia, including the cost of vehicles, limited model availability and lack of charging infrastructure. The Australian Government commitment to net zero by 2050 and reducing transport emissions will not be achieved without stronger

CHECK OUT OUR RANGE OF FULLY CUSTOMISABLE AERO KITS & SLEEPER CABS

action to increase the uptake of zero emission trucks. The transition needs to begin now, to ensure the smoothest transition for trucking businesses. Zero emission trucks are also an economic opportunity. It costs about $117 to fuel a diesel truck for 300 kilometres, but just $18 for an electric truck. If Australia gets left behind on the transition to electric and zero emission trucks, we risk our supply chains and exporters getting stuck with high, globally uncompetitive per km freight costs. The following measures

should be introduced in Budget 2022-23 as core elements for a net zero truck incentive plan. Zero emission trucks are expensive, with some an extra $200,000 in terms of upfront price (about double the price of a diesel equivalent). This delays sales, which in turns delays new model availability and keeps prices high. A temporary purchase price incentive would break this cycle and bring forward the transition to zero emission trucks, which is critical to Australia’s net zero plan.

The ATA recommends establishing a voucher-based scheme, with vouchers that provide between 50 to 80 per cent of the price difference. Voucher schemes provide transparency for the outcome of government funds, have proven effectiveness overseas, could be co-funded with the states and territories and incorporate local priorities. This model has been implemented in California, New York State and Chicago in the United States. Funding for the existing Freight Energy Productivity Program should be reallocated to support establishing a voucher scheme, noting the level of funding for the voucher scheme will need to be higher than the FEPP. The accessibility and affordability of charging infrastructure is consistently raised by both operators and truck manufacturers as a key challenge in truck electrification. Investment in charging infrastructure is necessary to provide confidence to operators that they can fulfil their daily operations. Funding should include grid upgrades, site electrical upgrades, and charging infrastructure installation. Two forms of charging infrastructure will be required to support electric truck fleet operations: depot-based charging and public charging networks (including highways, hubs and distribution centres). Existing investment by the Australian Government and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation into hydrogen transport projects are critical first steps to enabling long-distance zero emission transport.

Australia needs a national rest area strategy to deal with our long-term chronic undersupply of truck rest areas.

Putting the Brakes on... s

ms with Service and Claim

...High Premiums & Proble

Owner Drivers

T&G e InsurancPTy Brokers LTd s to the nce Brokers specialist We are General Insura y industries. ner chi Ma and g vin Transport, Earthmo ensure you e and knowledge to We have the experienc ht price. rig the at e vic and ser get the right coverage

Depot & Business Insurances

9 9 5 0 1 0 0 0 18 anch contact our closest br

Liability Fleets Cargo

Sydney Brisbane • Mackay • l Victoria na gio Re * Melbourne

WWW.RETRUCKAUSTRALIA.COM.AU

ist you.

n on how we can ass

u for more informatio

or visit www.tgib.com.a

22 FEATURE

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Followmont engages drivers to improve safety outcomes

Following an incident in which one of its linehaul drivers was injured, Followmont takes a proactive approach with uplifting.

Drivers need to check tool boxes prior to depature to ensure they have a Truckers Trident for potential changes to loads.

IN November 2017, a linehaul truck driver working for Followmont Transport sustained serious injuries while operating a forklift. An investigation into the event identified an unsafe practice that had been adopted by some linehaul drivers. The incident was investigated by WorkSafe Queensland and Followmont entered into an Enforceable Undertaking (EU). As a result of this EU, Followmont has committed to developing and implementing tangible and sustainable improvements to health and safety in their workplaces, the transport industry, and our communities. Followmont has written the following as part of this EU There is no doubt long haul driving is a lonely job, especially at night. When it comes to safety there are many hazards present both on and off the road. This article looks at the hazards identified by long distance drivers [known as linehaul drivers in the industry] who perform uplifts at various stops along their routes. It provides an overview of the approach one organisation, Followmont Transport took to improve learning and make critical changes to improve the health and safety for their drivers. In the general freight industry, the only thing routine about the job of a linehaul driver is the route itself. Every night the load may be different, with freight ranging from

mail bags for regional towns and properties to large, heavy mining equipment, parts, and supplies. The other unique part of the job is having to pick up freight along the way, uplifting, as it’s referred to in the industry. This happens when there is freight to be loaded or unloaded from the truck at one of the depots along the route. Uplifting is one of those jobs that’s different all the time, as the freight size and weight is unpredictable. If things don’t go to plan when doing an uplift, it can cause delays for the driver and issues down the road. In 2017, a Followmont linehaul driver suffered a serious injury when doing an uplift at an unattended depot as part of their routine regional

Queensland route. After removing freight from the vehicle using a forklift, the driver was attempting to reload additional freight. When reversing, the drivers leg became entangled in the unit’s restraint straps that were hanging in situ over freight loaded on the mezzanine floor of the trailer. An investigation into the event identified a practice that had been adopted by some linehaul drivers, the method involved physically holding up restraining straps in one hand whilst operating a forklift to move freight on the deck of the trailer was discovered. A communication to all workers was immediately enacted, prohibiting this behaviour due to the risk of entanglement. In addition to Follow-

mont’s regular forms of consultation such as weekly driver debrief, quarterly meetings, health and safety committee meetings and the annual staff survey, the company felt there was a need to seek more input from their linehaul drivers. To understand more about uplifting, load restraints and issues when working alone at night on linehaul trips, Followmont Transport conducted a learning team with a group of linehaul drivers. A learning team provides an opportunity to bring together workers to explore and understand how work is done, what makes work successful and what can go wrong and how. Conducting a learning team is all about learning for the organisation and can be eye opening. This is especially

In the general freight industry, the only thing routine about the job of a linehaul driver is the route itself.

the case for those work activities which happen off site and out of regular management and business hours. In these circumstances, many organisations put faith in their management systems to control activities and identify issues through monitoring, measuring, and reporting processes. However, we know that systems can fail to detect discrepancies between what the organisation says it does in system documentation (e.g., procedures), and how work is done. This failure may occur for many reasons, such as workers feeling pressured to meet production timeframes, work not being observed by others to identify issues, and because workers feel it’s not psychologically safe to raise issues to management. We also see systems fail when workers have the courage to speak up and report issues, but these are not acted upon by management in a timely manner, or at all. Conducting a learning team can be described as a facilitated discussion that gives focus to issues experienced by workers doing a specific activity and understand how workers can do the job successfully time and time again. There is one rule for a learning team, and that is they are a psychologically safe place for workers to voice issues without retribution. Equally, the organisation must respond and follow up to what is learned with honesty and integrity. In conducting this learning team, Followmont learned that there are many factors impacting a driver’s ability to use the standard depot controls for loading and restraining at the various depots and stops on their route. Standard controls being those risk treatment actions performed in main depots when first loading the truck, for example the

use of safety cages and having extra personnel to assist with load restrain in the loading depot is not available to a driver who attends an unmanned site. These factors include: • Time constraints may be experienced due to road conditions, delays on the highway and the distance of routes and the need to get to the final destination within a scheduled time allowance, meaning drivers have limited time for unloading and uplifting at depots in order to stay within the designated fatigue management window. • Restrictive depot space resulting in drivers parking in loading bays close to walls or boundary fences limiting trailer access to the driver’s side only. • Limited access to both sides of the trailer creates difficultly when restraining the new load. • Lone work during the night is experienced at some depots in remote locations. • Uncommon and unpredictable load types to be collected enroute require load planning to occur ‘on the spot’, to ensure the load is safely stowed and restrained. • Eliminating work at heights (e.g., climbing onto trailers and mezzanine floors) requires drivers to use tools to reach and reposition the restraint straps after being loosened. • Workplace conditions at client owned and controlled depots has the potential to expose drivers to other hazards, such as poor lighting, uneven surfaces, forklifts, and structures. • Drivers need to check toolboxes prior to departure to ensure they have adequate restraint equipment and a Truckers Trident for potential changes to loads. Continued page 24

RDP The first choice in all-makes truck parts. ACCESSORIES · AIR SYSTEM · BRAKES · CLEANING · DPF’S · LED LIGHTING MUDGUARDS · BELT TENSIONER KITS · HOSES · AIRBAGS · CLUTCH KITS FAN HUB KITS · BATTERIES · WORKSHOP AND MUCH MORE

24 FEATURE

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Troubleshooting exercise leads to safer solution

Trailer with hooks.

A truckie safely lifts a strap onto a strap guide using the Truckers Trident.

From page 22 IN the learning team, drivers discussed the various techniques they use to keep loose straps out of the way while performing an uplift, noting that following the incident in 2017, Followmont prohibited drivers from holding straps while uplifting a load. Regardless of this, many drivers admitted to continuing the practice at times against company policy and procedure. The drivers suggested other controls such as restraint curtains, or a roof retractable restraint system. However, as discussed, neither of these suggestions were suitable as restraining curtains will not negate the need to restrain freight, in most cases items need to be individually restrained to prevent the possibility of load shift in transit. Similarly, Followmont has previously trialled retractable load restraint systems with little to no success due to the wide variety of their freight profile, including out of gauge freight and long lengths. Following the learning team, Followmont undertook a troubleshooting exercise in the main depot to understand the issues raised in the learning team and how the job can be done safely while within appropriate schedules. This exercise involved setting up a trailer with different size and shaped loads with restraint straps and using a forklift to test various scenarios of uplifting. While conducted during daylight hours using a well-maintained forklift in a large depot area, effort was taken to replicate some of the issues experienced by drivers in the remote locations. This involved restricting the driver to only access one side of the trailer and only allowing

one driver to complete the activities. The scenarios were filmed to understand time constraints and issues experienced with the restraint straps as described by the drivers. The exercise identified the trouble that arises for the driver when the straps are positioned over another load which is to remain on the trailer. This is exacerbated when uplifting to a mezzanine floor. When the driver doesn’t have access to the other side of the trailer, they have no room to remove the straps, and if they did, no room to toss the straps back over the load. Whilst conducting the scenarios, it was found that one option was for the driver to roll up the long straps and position them either above or to the side of the loading

Lifting the strap onto the guide.

area. This was safe but time consuming and it had its own challenges for working with straps over the mezzanine floors and different shapes and sizes of general freight. The driver found the use of a Truckers Trident was very helpful when accessing, moving, and holding the straps out of the way . Transport equipment manufacturer Tegral, design and manufacture a wide variety of transport equipment for the safe application of load restraint. The Truckers Trident was originally designed for the placement of angles and straps, as part of the trial undertaken by Followmont, Tegral provided a prototype model with an extended length to assist with reaching the top of trailers from ground level.

The outcome from conducting the learning team and the scenario testing has led Followmont to design, install and trial a strap guide which is securely mounted on the gate wheel assembly. This works by simply placing the strap over the hook using the Truckers Trident. When the gate is lifted and moved to the side to expose the freight, the strap moves with the gate leaving the loading area free from straps and the risk of entanglement. The design of the Truckers Trident was the perfect fit for the trial. The telescopic extension is light weight (less than 1.5kg) and simple to use with minimal exertion required to hook a restraining strap and lift it onto the strap guide before moving the trailer gate. Following a risk assessment of the equipment and its

multiple uses, the product was found to be ideal for this application. Followmont is currently undertaking a more extensive trial of this inexpensive engineered control with its trailers and linehaul drivers as part of the ongoing consultation process with their learning team. Additionally, and as a result of this trial, the risk of fall from height due to drivers accessing trailer decks to reach restraining straps that have become entangled in the freight loading process, has been greatly reduced. Preliminary feedback from drivers is positive and Followmont is pleased with the progress and providing their drivers with a safer system of work. Conducting a learning team to find a solution to a safety problem was a new approach taken by Followmont and there were several learnings from this experience which included: • Learning teams provide a safe place for workers to share their innovative ideas to get the job done successfully, as well as voice their concerns about issues they deal with that may cause the job to be unsafe. • Workers will trust their organisation and be open

and honest about how they deal with issues they experience when performing work. However, this is only if what they share in the learning team is treated with integrity and there are no repercussions. • Learning teams allow organisations to learn from their workers about how work is done, especially when others are not around to support or observe. • Workers have experience in the field and their feedback is an important part of issue resolution. You just need to give them the opportunity to be a part of the process of risk assessment and control. Additionally, learnings from the scenario exercise and the trial included: • When you have a complex job that requires a thoughtout process, conducting scenario-testing can help to identify the better and safer procedures. • Successful issue resolution can take several attempts, this outcome came about after trialling a number of different ideas • Once suitable controls and procedures have been identified, you need to take workers on the change journey by giving them the knowledge and ability to make the change.

Tegral provided a prototype model of the Truckers Trident with a telescopic extension.

SPONSORED CONTENT 43

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Experts in AdBlue storage WHILST Australians wait for a long-term solution for the supply of AdBlue, Incitec Pivot hit a milestone producing of over three million litres of AdBlue at the end of January, representing around 75 per cent of Australia’s AdBlue needs as reported by the Energy Minister Angus Taylor to ABC News. This locally produced AdBlue is now flowing through the domestic supply chain to wholesalers and service stations across the country.

Polymaster’s AdBlue tanks can be found in truck and bus depots all around Australia.

2,300ltrs - 10,000ltrs

Bulk storage – What to know AdBlue is a highly purified colourless liquid containing demineralised water and urea (32.5 per cent). It is a corrosive substance that can dissolve materials that are not listed as AdBlue proof in ISO 22241. This makes it a challenging substance to store, as it tends to find any small pinhole to leak from and crystallises when exposed to the atmosphere. Not just any old tank will do. It’s important to invest in storage containers that are built to an exacting standard. A Polyethylene (LLHDPE) is ideal, as AdBlue doesn’t react to this material. All your wetted areas within the AdBlue pump must be stainless steel including any other metal fit-

2,000ltrs - 5,000ltrs

tings. Urea attacks brass and mild steel so steer away from these.

Can AdBlue go off If not used, AdBlue will ‘go off ’. So, ensuring you have the right type and size of tank is important, especially as AdBlue doesn’t respond well to direct sunlight, extreme heat and cold temperatures. Polymaster have been experts in AdBlue storage since the day it was introduced into Australia back in early 2014, produced at Polymaster’s state-of-the-art plant in Victoria. Our quality has led major national fuel retailers to exclusively use Polymaster to store and dispense AdBlue at their retail sites throughout Australia and New Zealand. Polymaster AdBlue tanks can be found in truck and bus depots all around Australia. The Australian Defence Force has them throughout their whole installation too, including those bases located in the most ‘unfriendly’ climatic circumstances for AdBlue. These same tanks are also exported to other countries. Why a polyethylene tank A polyethylene tank has other significant benefits, especially over steel tanks. Here are a few to consider: • There is no need to paint

POLYMASTER HAS A RANGE OF OFF-THE-SHELF TANKS, RANGING FROM 200 LITRES ALL THE WAY UP TO 10,000 LITRES. CUSTOM TANKS CAN GO UP TO 30,000 LITRES – WHICH IS A LOT OF ADBLUE.” or maintain it. It has 20year UV protection in the material. • It’s lightweight, so when empty, can be easily moved around the yard. • It’s strong with memory. Unlike steel, a polyethylene tank can take a knock and a dent can pop out, instead of creasing and perforating. • It’s better value. Steel costs more. Now is the time to take advantage and invest in your own AdBlue storage and dispensing solutions. Polymaster has a range of off-the-shelf tanks, ranging from 200 litres all the way up to 10,000 litres. Custom tanks can go up to 30,000 litres – which is a lot of AdBlue. The Polymaster team is more than happy to field your AdBlue questions, call 1800 062 064. For more information or to view the range, visit polymaster.com.au/agricul ture/adblue-tanks-utepacks.

100ltrs - 400ltrs

44 OPERATOR PROFILE

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Freightliner Cascadia trio win over Victorian hauler

IMPRESSED with the blue 126 Cascadia he purchased in late 2019, grain and fertiliser hauler Mark Rix has ordered two more. Based in Bolwarrah, near Ballarat in Victoria, his business carries freight across Victoria, South Australia and southern New South Wales. Rix received the two newest trucks last October. While he has a mixed fleet, Rix has been buying Freightliner trucks for some time, including multiple Coronados and a Columbia that clocked over 2 million kilometres before it was sold to a new owner. According to Rix, the Cascadia is very different compared to the previous Freightliners he’s had in the fleet. “You can’t compare the Cascadia to the Freightliners that came before it,” he said. “It is like a quantum leap over of anything before it. “The technology, the comfort, the quality of the interior and the performance is just way out in front of the previous models, and any other truck from my experience.” Rix says the combination of advanced technology and safety, previously missing from US-style bonneted trucks in Australia, with a comfortable

The three 126 Cascadias are equipped with the DD16 16-litre Detroit six-cylinder diesel engine and a fully automated 12-speed DT-12 Detroit transmission.

conventional truck with a spacious sleeper has made for the perfect truck. “They figured out a way to combine the best parts of European trucks with the best parts of American trucks,” added Rix. His business, which he es-

tablished with his wife Kaye, selected the 126 Cascadia, equipped with the DD16 16-litre Detroit six-cylinder diesel engine that produces 600hp and 2050lb-ft of torque, fed through a fully automated 12-speed DT-12 Detroit transmission.

The technology, the comfort, the quality of the interior and the performance is just way out in front of the previous models.

SEQ HEAVY VEHICLE Repairs & Maintenance

He reports that all three trucks are recording excellent fuel consumption. But the single trailer 126 running at 44-tonnes across to Adelaide and back is the standout. “It’s getting 2.4km per litre every single day and that is fantastic. I’m really, really happy with that,” he said. “The Detroit is the best performer on fuel and also AdBlue.” Rix’s operation primarily transports grain, fertiliser and lime and the most recent Cascadia 126, with a 60-inch cabin, was hooked up to a new tri-tri stag trailer set manufactured by Chris’ Body Builders. He purchased his Cascadias through Brendan Eales at Daimler Trucks Somerton. Standard equipment includes a full suite of safety features including a radar and camera-based Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS) that can automatically detect, and fully brake for, moving pedestrians in addition to vehicles.

Mark Rix with one of his Freightliner 126 Cascadias.

Also standard is a radar-based adaptive cruise control system, a lane departure warning system and Electronic Stability Program. Rix’s trucks also feature the

optional Sideguard Assist feature, which uses radar to detect people, cars and other objects down the side of the truck when it is about to move left into a lane or turn left.

0400 199 699

seqheavyvehicle@gmail.com • General Heavy Vehicle Servicing and Repair • Preventative and Routine Maintenance • Engine Rebuilds • Breakdowns

www.seqheavyvehicle.com.au SEQ Heavy Vehicle Repairs & Maintenance Pty Ltd | 192 Beatty Road, Archerfield Qld 4108

FEATURE 45

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Truckies’ knight in shining armour to the rescue

BY ALF WILSON

IT was a scorching hot summer day with the temperature sitting at 38 degrees when Gye Gardner was working on a truck at a pull-off area beside the Bruce Highway near Rockhampton. The sun was burning the skin when Big Rigs stopped after spotting Gardner toiling hard to do what looked like a major repair on a broken down Western Star Constellation. Picture opportunities like this are few and far between and I was mindful that such workers are rarely recognised for their out-of-the-spotlight and behind-the-scenes efforts to keep trucks running and Australia supplied. “There is a problem with the batteries and I am fixing it,” Gardner said. Gardner is the fleet project manager for Seymours Transport which is based at Toogoolawah in the Brisbane Valley and despite the heat and steamy conditions could even see a positive side to his task. The company is a family business spanning four generations. Seymours started in 1928 with Wilfred Seymour

buying the local blacksmith business in Toogoolawah. Gardner has held that vital position for the past 10 years and he has a full MC licence and is a qualified fitter. His duties involve looking after the machinery and employees of the company. “Yesterday I had to change tyres on a truck and it was 41 degrees, a fair bit hotter than today,” he said as sweat poured down his face. I asked Gardner what is the most uncomfortable job he does on a regular basis and his answer was swift. “It would be when I get called out to a repair and have to get on the ground under the truck which has picked up roadkill,” he said. That occurs regularly and on my trip throughout the region I saw scores of dead animals beside the highways and byways including kangaroos, birds and even a few feral pigs. Having done a few stories in the past on council road gangs, which are tasked with picking up such dead carcasses for disposal, I could relate to Gardner’s experiences. I asked Gardner for a few examples of such repairs and he didn’t take long to reply.

Gye Gardner is the fleet project manager for Seymours Transport in the Brisbane Valley.

“I climbed under a vehicle and there was this horrible smell. I found half a dead roo on a crossmember above an

Seymours Transport truckie Stephen Golinski, right, is all smiles after Gardner arrives to save the day.

axle and the stench was horrible. Two days later after several showers I could still smell it on my body,” he said. There was another occasion when a pig was stuck to the under body parts of a truck. “Dead pigs stink to high heaven and they are greasy as hell,” he said. Gardner said he has even come across the remains of dead horses or cattle under vehicles during his work. The 55-year-old enjoys the job and gets to travel far and wide when he gets a call out. It could be in the middle of the day or late at night and this knight in shining armour is off to a job. “I work 10 days on and four days off. A call-out could come at any time of the day, or night, even at 1am. Every day is different and that is what I like, the variety. When a truck breaks down I have to

GET THE EATON LUBE INTO YOUR AXLES! Eaton 80W-140 synthetic gear lubricant is an API GL-5 extreme pressure lubricant designed to promote longer gear life and better operating economy, thus improving fuel economy in heavy, mid and light-duty applications. It is formulated using synthetic base stock, which has a high viscosity index and an exceptionally low pour point.

get it back and running and as quickly as possible,” he said. With apologies to famous Australian poet Banjo Paterson, Gardner is a modern-day version of one of those long gone dray drivers who travelled the country before motorised transport such as trucks. Why such a comparison? readers may ask. Well the explanation is simple – he takes a swag with him when on call-outs often to remote locations Born at Theodore, Gardner lives at Mount Morgan and travels as far away as Roma, which is 450km in the distance, and to Dingo, Wondoan, Chinchilla, and others places. He may have to change batteries or tyres, weld up trailers or do any other repair required by a fleet of Western Stars, Kenworths and other machinery.

Being an optimistic type I thought that in winter, Gardner would in the words of the late cricket commentator Tony Greig, “enjoy a good player’s comfort level”, but that is not always the case. “I did a job at Taroom in winter and was under a vehicle with my legs on the ground and ice formed on my pants and skin. It was freezing,” he said. When the trucks are all running, Gardner spends time in the office and amongst other duties does comparisons between what is written in logbooks and checking them against other data. The first truck Gardner drove was a White 4000 he bought from Milmerran doing rock protection work when he was aged 17. Gardner spent six years in the NT between 2004 and 2010 before returning to his beloved central Queensland.

IMPROVED PROTECTION Reduces gear wear

FULLY SYNTHETIC High viscosity index

Order part # RSL80W140-20 from your local dealership. For more information contact Eaton on 1300 432 866 or email: eatonparts@eaton.com @EatonVehicleAustralia

PEACE OF MIND

Backed by Roadranger support

46 NEWS

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

DAF B-double on the road to deliver lung checks

HEART of Australia has launched its newest mobile medical imaging clinic, which will provide increased accessibility to lung checks for current and former mine and quarry workers in rural and remote Queensland. The HEART 5 is the fifth truck in the Heart of Australia fleet. It’s been built to a 26m B-double spec, and is pulled by a DAF XF 530. PACCAR Australia has supported Heart of Australia since its inception in 2014, providing two Kenworth K200 prime movers for HEART 1 and HEART 2; and two DAF XF 530s for HEART 4 and HEART 5. The DAF XF 530 used for the newest purpose-built mobile medical clinic is powered by a 530 horsepower Euro 6 PACCAR MX-13 engine. Built in Brisbane, the custom HEART 5 B-double contains over $1 million worth of medical and IT equipment on board. X-ray and CT scanning equipment will be used to assist in the screening and early detection of mine dust lung

X-ray and CT scanning equipment will be used to assist in the screening and early detection of mine dust lung diseases, such as black lung and silicosis.

diseases, such as black lung and silicosis. Inside the HEART 5 there are two consult rooms, two tech rooms, waiting area verandas, a wheelchair access lift, full kitchen, AV systems with screens and projectors, a reception area, and full air conditioning and toilet facilities. The truck can be self-powered for up to 10 days using diesel, batteries and solar panels. Heart of Australia founder Dr Rolf Gomes says he

is thrilled to be working in partnership with the Queensland Government and Resources Safety and Health Queensland, which contributed $2 million towards the build and operation of HEART 5. The clinic will improve accessibility to respiratory health examinations for current and former mine and quarry workers as well as their broader communities across rural and remote areas of Queensland.

Heart of Australia founder Dr Rolf Gomes says the HEART 5 is a world-first.

“The battery technology we have designed and built in Queensland to power the CT scanner means with HEART 5 we can do a CT parked on a mine site, and that is a world first,” said Gomes. “HEART 5 breaks down the tyranny of distance, so if you do have a lung dis-

The DAF XF 530 is powered by a 530 horsepower Euro 6 PACCAR MX-13 engine.

ease, we can find it early and quickly.” Resources Minister Scott Stewart added, “We’re proud to have HEART 5 on the road helping to uphold our high standards for health and safety in the resources sector, and our government will continue to support workers,

on and off the job site. Today marks an important day as we farewell HEART 5 from Brisbane, on its official rollout to regional Queensland.” Gomes says providing rural patients with access to locally delivered medical imaging services will make an enormous difference in improving lives and supporting the work of local GPs. “Heart of Australia is pioneering the delivery of radiology services in regional Queensland. For retired miners as well as those living in rural and remote communities, this means easier access to testing and screening which will improve patient health outcomes,” he said. Since 2014, Heart of Australia’s medical specialists have seen over 12,000 patients and saved more than 500 lives. The fleet has travelled over 500,000 kilometres servicing towns from Stanthorpe in the south to Weipa in the far north and Winton in the west. “With the launch of HEART 5, our CT truck, we will be finding more, treating more, and saving more lives,” Gomes concluded.

TRUCKIES WORKING FOR TRUCKIES JOIN NOW AND HELP BRING CHANGE TO OUR INDUSTRY We have a growing range of member benefits: • Personal and Business Insurance • Ampol fuel discount

• Legal Help “Highway Advocates” • Compliance advice

Phone Rod Hannifey 0428 120 560 | Email: secretary@nrfa.com.au | Web: www.nrfa.com.au

NEWS 47

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Big turnout for tribute convoy to honour truckies

A CONVOY of more than 110 trucks turned up to pay tribute to adored drivers Brian Shaw and Steve Latimer who died in a collision near Wowan in Central Queensland last month. Truckies gathered at the Westwood Hotel before making their way to Rockhampton to remember the lives of Shaw and Latimer and pay their respects. Latimer was Clayton’s Towing’s area manager for many years and a real icon in the Rockhampton area, and Shaw was a delivery driver for Tip

Top bread. “Today we lost a Father, a mate, a very valued employee and a genuine good guy, Clayton’s wrote on a Facebook post last month. “He was a family man, who would always go the extra yard helping others on the road in their time of need, he had a heart of gold. “He was the man everyone went to when they needed local knowledge, always had his finger on the pulse. Our condolences go out to Steve’s family, friends and fellow staff mem-

Brian Shaw, left, and Steve Latimer, right, died in a collision near Wowan in Central Queensland last month.

More than 100 trucks gathered at the Westwood Hotel in Central Queensland for the tribute convoy. Photo: Facebook

bers, he will be sadly missed in the Clayton’s family.” Industry luminary Di Carroll, who was widely lauded for setting up the transport support service Trans-Help, also posted a tribute to Latimer under the heading Heart of Gold. “In life we meet people, they come and they go, but some remain very dear to your heart. “One such person was Steve Latimer, who became a dear colleague and friend during our Trans-Help Journey. He was down to earth, heart of gold with a charismatic nature. Tragically Steves life was lost today in a truck accident. “Steve and Megan were dear friends, who supported me and

the foundation over the years – our contact was not often, but when we did it was to support each other. “He was a very charitable person, raise funds for many organisations, including CQ Convoy. “He was a loving and loved partner of Megan, adored his kids and was besotted with his grandkids. “His work, was his life, he not only done recovery, he became a counsellor, and a lifelong friend to so many drivers and companies over the years. He will be remembered by the trucking industry as that genuine bloke with a heart of gold! “My sincere condolences

Described by friends as a “larrakin and a half”, Latimer lived for his family and his job. Photo: Facebook

and love goes out to Megan, all their children, grandchildren and extended family and friends.” Choking back tears at the convoy event, Katrina Debrincat said her father Brian Shaw was the type of person to help anyone. “He was a very hard-working man, he was a great poppy,” NSW Arndell Park 02 9671 3983

North Brisbane 07 3268 4188

BIG WHEELS TRUCK ALIGNMENT AUSTRALIA’’S NO 1 AUSTRALIA WHEEL ALIGNERS Central Coast 02 4325 5777 Tamworth 02 6763 2500 QLD Bundaberg 07 4111 5989

Gold Coast 07 5563 2200 Gracemere 07 4933 4811

Mackay 07 4952 4177

Debrincat said. “He just loved everyone and he loved his work, he loved driving trucks – he lived for it. “I just hope he’s soaring high and in a better place.” Investigators are appealing for witnesses, especially those with dashcam vision from the day of the crash, February 15, to come forward.

Rocklea 07 3275 3348

Sunshine Coast 07 5445 1705 Toowoomba 07 4634 1749

Townsville 07 4774 4236

Emerald 07 4987 6040 Logan 07 3445 5712

Tel: 1300 655 050

VIC Dandenong 03 8768 7985 Geelong 03 5272 2460 Laverton 03 9369 1115 Morwell 03 5133 0272 Pakenham 03 5941 7730 WA Perth 08 9353 3111

www.bigwheels.net.au

Tel: 1300 655 050 AUSTRALIAN DISTRIBUTOR

FULLY CERTIFIED STAFF

www.bigwheels.net.au

48 WHAT’S ON

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Save these dates in 2022

Convoy for Kids Sydney. Photo: Convoy For Kids Sydney website

AFTER so much uncertainty over the last couple of years, it’s encouraging to see that more truck shows are resurfacing from their Covid-enforced hiatus. But please double-check the dates below with the event’s official site or Facebook page as they can often still change at short notice, as we have sadly seen in recent weeks. If you have an event you’d like included in the next event calendar, please email all the details to editor@bigrigs.com.au. We’d love to hear from you. MARCH Convoy for Kids Sydney March 20

Sydney, NSW Visit: convoyforkids.com. au Since the first Convoy for Kids Sydney in 1992, truckies have raised nearly $3 million for kids’ charities and hospitals in NSW. The upcoming convoy will start from Huntingwood and arrive at Hawkesbury Showground in Clarendon for a fun-filled family day with rides, entertainment, food and stalls. VTA State Conference March 20-22 Phillip Island, Victoria Visit: vta.com.au The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) will focus

Illawarra Convoy rolls out again in November. Photo: Facebook

its 2022 State Conference around the theme of ‘Attaining Post Pandemic Supply Chain Certainty’. Around 35 speakers have been confirmed to address delegates. MAY Trucking Australia 2022 May 4-6 Gold Coast, Queensland Visit: truck.net.au/ta/ In what will be its first Trucking Australia conference since the pandemic started, the Australian Trucking Association says the event will offer an opportunity to discuss pressing industry issues such as driver

shortages and the supply chain. WA Mack Muster May 22 Whitby, WA Visit: facebook.com/ wamackmuster All proceeds and fundraising will be donated to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research for Cancer. The aim is to encourage all Mack, and other truck make owners, suppliers, sponsors of the WA transport industry to come out and get involved in the day and raise money for a cure to cancer. Entry is $10 for adults, and kids under 16 are free.

The popular WA Mack Muster and Truck Show returns in May. Photo: Facebook

ARE YOU CONFUSED ABOUT WHICH COOLANT TO USE? PG PLATINUM COOLANT IS DESIGNED FOR ANY APPLICATION ACROSS YOUR FLEET

www.fleetguard.com.au

JUNE Alexandra Truck, Ute and Rod Show June 12 Alexandra, Victoria Visit: alexandratruckshow. com.au With the September 2021 event cancelled, the Alexandra Truck, Ute & Rod Show will return to its usual date on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June, 2022. Sunday Show ‘n Shine on Alexandra’s main street. Be early on Saturday for the local markets, convoy and truck driver’s memorial service at 2pm and sponsors’ dinner at 6pm. AUGUST Megatrans August 24-26 (date change from February 16-18) Melbourne Exhibition Centre Visit: megatrans.com.au MEGATRANS is an integrated trade exhibition and conference showcasing the full freight and logistics supply chain, spanning warehousing and logistics, through to multimodal freight and final mile delivery. OCTOBER NatRoad National Conference October 20-22 Gold Coast, Queensland Visit: natroad.com.au NatRoad will hold its National Conference at the InterContinental Sanctuary Cove, offering the delegates the chance to participate in the ‘NatRoad Parliament’, where

they can debate some of the industry’s most pressing issues. Attendees then vote on the most important issues you want NatRoad to work on. Industry achievements will also be celebrated with the NatRoad Awards presented at the Gala Dinner. NOVEMBER Brisbane Convoy for Kids November 5 Brisbane, Queensland Visit: brisbaneconvoyfor kids.com.au Following plenty of buzz around the event that took place late last year, attracting 619 trucks, the event will return to raise money for charity. The event will feature a convoy running from Acacia Ridge to the Redcliffe Showgrounds, where there will also be a truck show and family day. Illawarra Truck Convoy November 20 Illawarra, NSW Visit: illawarraconvoy.com. au The Illawarra Convoy is the largest truck and motorbike convoy in the Southern Hemisphere and among the largest regional one day fundraisers in Australia. Since its inception in 2005, the event has raised over $20 million which has gone towards individuals and families affected by potentially life threatening medical conditions, charities that work with these people, and local hospitals.

NEWS 49

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Museum welcomes three new exhibits

THE newly launched Museum Of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE) in Shepparton, Victoria, has seen the recent arrival of some special new heavyweight visitors. They include historic examples of all three Volvo group Australia truck brands: a 1999 Volvo NH12 460 prime mover, a 1964 Mack B-61 prime mover and a 1973 UD CK40 prime mover. The NH12 is a superb example and was originally purchased from CMV Truck & Bus by CRT Group. The

pride of the CRT Group fleet, this prime mover was used to transport Basell polypropylene in CRT’s purpose-built 30’ aluminium containers from Altona to Geelong. As an iconic model for Mack, the B-61 is widely admired, and this specific vehicle was originally exported to Australia, arriving in the country on December 21, 1964. Exactly 26 years later to the day, CMV Group took delivery of the truck to add to the CMV Historic Vehicle

Collection. UD Trucks Australia has also loaned a fully restored 1973 UD CK40 for display at the CMV exhibit. Little is known about the origins of this particular truck. However, it was restored by a dedicated team of UD employees many years ago and was originally on display at UD’s former corporate headquarters in Chullora, NSW. “Trucks like this CK40 laid the foundations of the

[l-r] Brody Gray, branch manager CMV Shepparton and Peter Hill, MOVE CEO, show off the new arrivals.

The museum features a diverse line up, from bicycles and light passenger vehicles to historic heavy commercials.

rugged and ultimate dependability that the UD brand in renown for here in Australia,” said Lauren Downs, vice president, UD Trucks Australia. “Even now you can find examples of this very truck still operating in the back blocks of rural Australia.” CMV Truck & Bus, Volvo Group Australia’s largest private dealer partner is a major sponsor of MOVE. “We are incredibly proud to be supporting MOVE and

to be a partner in this impressive new museum,” said Miles Crawford, general manager, CMV Truck & Bus, who also commenced trading in Shepparton in 2021. “We’re also thrilled to call Shepparton home and to support the transport industry in the Goulbourn Valley region, building on the outstanding legacy of Don and Sharon Dimstas.” Don and Sharon were the former owners of D&S Truck

Repairs Shepparton. The museum features a diverse line up, from bicycles and light passenger vehicles to historic heavy commercials displayed in a purpose built 10,000 square metre facility. “Shepparton is a mecca for transport,” said MOVE CEO, Peter Hill. “One in four commercial vehicles registered in Victoria are based in the Shepparton area. Transport is the lifeblood of this region.”

NEVER POLISH YOUR WHEELS AGAIN WITH SUPERCHROME™ ALLOY WHEELS YOUR RIG CAN LOOK GOOD ALL YEAR ROUND Cleans and shines in just 41 seconds

7 year chrome warranty on all wheels

Fit your rig with wheels that will resist gravel sandblasting and chemicals. The hard chrome surface on Superchrome wheels reduces all wheel wear. Call Superchrome on 02 9060 1610 or visit us at www.superchrome.com.au

50 DRIVER PROFILES

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckin’ In The Outback

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY WHERE TRANSPORT DOES BUSINESS

Adrian ‘Slurp’ Schlieper

Adrian Schlieper drives this Kenworth T909, pulling a 125-tonne quad road train, with his two-up partner Ian Marsh.

they’ve been great mates for over 20. The duo transport express freight up to Darwin and carry produce or seafood on the return. “It was great to get a truck last year – it’s a home away from home and the opportunity doesn’t come around often,” he said, singing his praises for his employer. “Scarcella Transport is a brilliant company to work for. It’s family owned and the owners are great – you couldn’t ask for a better group of people. “We’re away five days a week. I do really enjoy it, and my wife enjoys not having me at home even more,” laughed Schlieper. But what is it he likes most about the job I ask? “It’s being out in the middle of nowhere, being your own boss and the peace and quiet. It’s better than running up and down the east coast any day. “Every now and then we get to go to Kununurra in WA’s Kimberley and we love it over there. And we get

to see Darwin every week, which ain’t a bad thing, it’s a beautiful city!” Schlieper nominated the Landsborough Highway in Western Queensland as one of the toughest he gets along. “It’s a goat track. You get nothing but bashed around. For a main highway, it’s a joke.” On the topic of roadhouses, the Dunmarra Roadhouse in Birdum, NT, is a favourite. “They offer friendly service and Gary the owner always looks after truck drivers. The food is pretty good there too, probably the best on the highway.” As much as he loves the work, it’s not without its challenges. Especially with ever-changing border requirements due to Covid. “There were quite a few issues in the beginning with getting across borders – and being put under arrest at about 12am one morning in Camooweal. “Police escorted us to Mount Isa due to a silly border permit change. They had us there for about half an

hour until they realised there was no big deal and let us go. “There were a couple of times they wouldn’t let us over the border into the NT too, so we were stuck at Camooweal. Then there were times a border permit change would come through and we’d be trying to get it sorted but couldn’t get any internet service.” Having spent over 30 years in the industry, Schlieper has seen many changes. “They’re trying to bring in safety stuff but are going about it the wrong way and things are going downhill instead of progressing forward,” he said. “A lot of the comradery has gone They’d rather go past you if you had a flat tyre than stop and help. It’s every man for themselves now. Though on this run, you do still get a lot of blokes who will pull up and help. It started changing about 2007-2008, with blokes trying to keep up with their logbooks, whereas in the old days, if someone was in need, you’d always stop and help.”

Schlieper has done the Sydney to Darwin run for Scarcella Transport for over 20 years.

Despite its challenges, Schlieper couldn’t see himself doing anything else.

“If my boss John Scarcella has his way, I’ll be here until the day I die!”

Real Service Real People Real Experience Real Insurance Solutions 02 6925 8788 www.tbiinsurance.com.au

Transport & Business Insurance Services Pty Ltd ABN 22 622 458 593 - AR# 0012620074 Corporate Authorised Representative of Midland Insurance Brokers Australia Pty Ltd - ABN 81 006 528 329 - ASFL No. 238 963

7036762aj

VETERAN outback truckie Adrian ‘Slurp’ Schlieper, 54, has been doing the weekly 8200km round trip from Sydney to Darwin and back again since he joined Scarcella Transport 22 years ago. “They’re a great company to work for, it’s a great run and I love doing it – I wouldn’t change it for the world,” he said. Schlieper got into trucking after he left the army in 1989. “I started driving trucks and I’ve been here ever since.” He got his truck licence at 21 and then progressed to his MC at around the age of 28. “I was working for a mate who had just bought a B-double and he needed someone to drive it, so he conned me into doing it for him,” he joked. Nowadays you’ll find him behind the wheel of a gleaming new Scarcella Transport 2021 Kenworth T909, pulling a 125-tonne quad road train, with his two-up partner Ian Marsh. They’ve been sharing the truck cabin for 15 or so years and Schlieper says

DRIVER PROFILES 51

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Truckin’ In The Outback

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY WHERE TRANSPORT DOES BUSINESS

Kane Vincenti and Marjorie Piette TRANSPORTING anything from coffee to food, engines to mining machinery, Kane Vincenti says he’s loved trucks and everything about them from a young age. The 28-year-old Perthbased truckie transports general freight to mine sites across Western Australia from behind the wheel of an impressive orange Kenworth T904 – with his wife Marjo-

rie Piette by his side. “I run two-up with my wife. Since I started at this company, she’s been doing it with me. We love this life and love being on the road. And having my wife there definitely helps with the longer trips, you don’t get so lonely,” said Vincenti, who works for Morawa Downs Transport. “My wife is actually French. We’re a very funny couple and enjoy everything

we do in regards to trucking. Even on a bad day, we still manage to make it into a good, fun day. We really do work well together.” Vincenti joined Morawa Downs Transport around 10 months ago. “My boss contracts to McMahon Burnett Transport, so I do that work. It’s always into mine sites. Most of the time, it’s toward Leonora, Laverton, Meekatharra and Kalgoorlie.”

Kane Vincenti and his wife Marjorie Piette run two-up, bringing freight into mining sites across WA.

This vibrant Kenworth T904 is their home away from home when they’re out on the road.

Vincenti rates the Great Central Road as one of the toughest he gets along. “It’s horribly corrugated and rough,” he said. With no prior background in trucking, Vincenti got his truck licence at 19 and progressed to his MC when he was 23. Prior to his current role, he did triple side tipper work into mine sites. Now you’ll find him towing

B-doubles and B-triples. While Vincenti admits the job is long hours and hard labour, he wouldn’t have it any other way. “Strapping, re-strapping, loading and unloading is hard in the summer heat. It can also be hard to find places to eat or find or shower. But I like being left alone and being left to myself and doing what I want to do. It’s helpful hav-

ing my wife as an offsider too, especially on a 40-plus degree day. I can see myself doing this for a long time – I wouldn’t want to do anything else.” When Vincenti chatted with Big Rigs, he was getting ready to head back on the road. “I don’t know where yet – it’s normally last minute and we head off in the afternoon,” he said.

GEARBOX & DIFFS

Unit 1/71 Axis Place, Larapinta, QLD 4110 Ph: (07) 3276 9300 | Fax: (07) 3276 9301 | Email: davids@gibbsparts.com | Email: gd@gibbsparts.com Web: www.gibbstrucktransmissions.com.au

ZF TCM UNITS

SPARE PARTS

POWERPACKS

VOLVO/MACK AMT TRANSMISSIONS

GRS0905/92 MERCEDES 6—16 SPEEDS

LARGE RANGE OF ROADRANGER TRANSMISSIONS

SCANIA TRANSMISSIONS

ZF TRANSMISSIONS 6-16 SPEED FM DIFF

JAPANESE TRANSMISSIONS FOR ALL FOUR MAJOR BRANDS, LARGE RANGE OF DIFFS IN STOCK FOR AMERICAN, EUROPEAN AND JAPANESE TANDEM AND SINGLE DRIVE

52 DRIVER PROFILES

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Truckin’ In The Tropics Jimmy Tatham HAVING milked cows for a living for 30 years, Jimmy Tatham has great knowledge of the dairy industry but has been happy being a truckie for the past five years. Tatham said he worked on farms around Colac in Victoria and Toomba in NSW for three decades milking cows and had enjoyed it. “But life as a driver is great because there is so much freedom when you are on the roads,” he said. Tatham, 51, was sitting in the driver’s seat of his Kenworth K200 when Big Rigs saw him at a rest area near Injune and was happy to have a chat on New Year’s Day. “I don’t mind working on New Year’s Day and also did on

Christmas Day. It is so hot outside and makes you appreciate the air conditioning in the truck cabin, which has a 550hp Cummins motor and an 18 speed Roadranger gearbox,” he said. It was almost 40 degrees so we sat on one of the concrete table and chairs to yarn about his trucking career. “I live in Sydney and have worked for Exodas for three years. I came up from our Yatala depot with plants for Bunnings in Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and the Atherton tablelands. Coming back to Sydney I have mangoes and limes from Mareeba for NSW markets,” he said. Tatham said the Rolleston to Springsure Highway and the Gregory Development Road between Charters Towers and

Tatham rates the Clermont BP roadhouse as a favourite.

Clermont were the worst he gets on. “The Towers to Clermont road has rough shoulders in many places and is dangerous and truckies have to try and stay out of them. And it is up and down and bouncy. The Flinders Highway between Richmond and Hughenden and near Julia Creek are also bad,” he said. As for roadhouses, Tatham rates the Gregory Highway BP at Clermont high on his list of favourites. “They have showers and good toilets and the food is great. Also the people are friendly. The BP Cluden at Townsville is also good,” he said. Tatham hasn’t been affected greatly by Covid-19 regulations and has had his two vaccination jabs. He has driven trucks in Queensland, NSW, Victoria and South Australia. The first truck he drove was an old Isuzu when he was employed by Australia Post at Kempsey in NSW. He enjoys fishing on the Gold Coast when off work, hoping to catch whiting and flathead which make for a tasty meal, On the front of his Kenworth were hundreds of dead insects. “I went through a road where millions of grasshoppers were,” he said.

with Alf Wilson

Jimmy Tatham worked on dairy farms for 30 years before switching to trucking.

www.trucktools.com.au

DOCTOR DETROIT ENGINE REPAIRS

TRUCK REPAIR TOOLS AND WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

Australia’s Largest Specialty Truck Huge Range - Best Prices - Best Service - Quality Products

Products To Keep Your Investment On The Road. H

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP

Austra Products To Keep You

• TRUCK ENGINE TOOLS • DRIVELINE / TRANSMISSION TOOLS • • AXLE HUB NUT SOCKETS • HAND TOOLS / TORQUE WRENCHES

1800 000 561 - AUSTRALIA WIDE SERVICE a

Australia’s Largest Specialty Truck Tool Supplier. The Right Tool For The Right Job. Ph: 1800 000 561 or available prior arrangement Products To Keep Your Investment On The Road. HugeWarehouse Range - Best Pick-up Prices - Best Service subject - Australiato Wide Delivery

We repair anything with a Detroit Diesel engine at a fair price.

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT • TRUCK FILTER TOOLS • AXLE / HUB TOOLS • GEAR / SLIDE/ SEAL DRIVERS • TRUCK FUEL TOOLS • BRAKE/ STEERING/ SUSPENSION TOOLS • TRUCK WHEEL SERVICE TOOLS • SPECIALLY HAND TOOLS

Australia’s Largest Speciality Truck Tool Supplier. 1800 000 561 or 03 9703 2000 Email: info@trucktools.com.au The Right Tool For The Right Job. MAKE A BOOKING OR REQUEST A QUOTE Products To Keep Your Investment On The Road. a

drdet313@gmail.com 0416 511 722 www.detroitdieselmechanic.com.au

ONLINE CATALOGUE Warehouse location FREIGHT AUSTRALIA WIDE

Australian owned and operated

03 9703

TRUCK ENGINE TOOLS • AXLE HUB NUT SOC

Ph: 1800 0

www.trucktools.com.au Phone 03 9703 2000 Frecall 1800 000 561 info@trucktools.com.au

DRIVER PROFILES 53

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Truckin’ In The Tropics Brenden Armstrong

with Alf Wilson

Shane Eyers

SHANE Eyers was heading towards Brisbane to pick up booze and other supplies in a 2017 Mack Superliner when Big Rigs yarned to him. The young-looking 53-year-old is employed by the Reef Gateway Hotel located at the tourist mecca of Airlie Beach and had stopped at Carmila Roadhouse between Mackay and Sarina. “I do two return trips a week to Brisbane and have been a truckie for more than 30 years. My dad Joey had trucks so it is in the family,” he said. The first truck Eyers drove

was a 1985 model MAN which was his father’s from the days of Eyer’s Brothers at Toowoomba. Eyers says there is not enough rest areas overall and the good ones are often “invaded by caravans which doesn’t leave enough room for everybody”. He likes the Carmila Roadhouse because of the good service, friendly staff and parking across the road. The worst road he gets along is the section of the Bruce Highway north of Rockhampton.

Like many drivers Big Rigs snaps pics of, Eyers was a bit concerned that his truck was dirty because of all the dead insects stuck on the front. “I ran into a plague of them,” he said. As for hobbies outside of his busy work schedule Eyers had a swift response. “I enjoy having a beer at home,” he said. Eyers was glowing in his praise for his wife Donna who he said did a wonderful job at home raising their autistic son whilst he was working. “I don’t think the wives behind the scenes get enough praise,” he said.

From left are Les Yarham, Aron Galego and driver Brenden Armstrong.

1326_TQ_BigRigs_1/4Page_Verticle_129x188_JAN_2022

THE wind was strong and drizzling rain was falling when Big Rigs saw a crew from Dawson Moving and Storage NQ picking up furniture in Townsville. Driver Brenden Armstrong and his assistants Les Yarham and Aron Galego were loading into a Nissan UD from a unit in Douglas. “This will be going into storage and the UD Nissan is

our about town truck,” Armstrong said. Armstrong also drives a bigger Iveco Stralis and travels as far away as Brisbane in the south and to Mount Isa out west. “They are both very good trucks which suit the work we do,” he said. While the wind made loading a bit more difficult than normal, Yarham said at least

the temperature was cooler because of the rain. “This is better than working in 38-degree heat.” It was just another day in the tropics and the three lads said they loved their job. Just up the road from where the unit is located a large branch had fallen from a high tree just missing my RAV 4. Along the way there were also numerous dead wallabies.

Shane Eyers works for the Reef Gateway Hotel at Airlie Beach.

TAFE Queensland puts 20,000 apprentices and trainees through their paces every year.

Job scheduling and dispatch software for growing businesses

TAFE Queensland offers more than just apprenticeship and traineeship training. Partner with us for all your business training needs so you can expand your business, diversify your skill set, or upskill your staff.

> Job Scheduling > Customer Communication > Route Optimization > Health & Safety > Flexible API > Advanced Reporting

CALL THE TAFE QUEENSLAND APPRENTICE HOTLINE

Visit vworkapp.com to get started RTO No. 0275 | CRICOS No. 03020E

54 SPY ON THE ROAD

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Are traffic blitzes at rest areas a tad hypocritical? SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON

Rest area usage questioned Rest areas are supposed to be for truck drivers and motorists to pull up for fatigue management, not places where road transport inspectors and police should set up traffic blitzes. That was an overwhelming response from truckies about my report in a recent column about such a blitz at the Mingela Rest Area beside the Flinders Highway. All traffic travelling towards Charters Towers was pulled over and checked with a small number of infringements issued. But readers of Big Rigs overwhelmingly responded saying the actions were hypocritical by authorities. “They want to police fatigue management and issue fines for clerical logbook errors and yet they set up a blitz in a rest area and trucks can’t stop there until they finish it,” one truckie told Spy. “Nice of them to take over a rest area for their money making efforts. What happens to fatigue management?” one posted on our Facebook page. Another asked what would have happened if a driver slotted a stop there during his travels to abide by the law. “Too bad if you needed your break whilst they took over the heavy vehicle rest area and then are told to move on to next area,” he said.

A truck at one of the Ashes games at Charters Towers aerodrome reserve.

Another driver said it wasn’t an appropriate use of any rest area. “Truck rest areas are very limited at the best of times and police have many places to use,” she said. One angry reader called a spade a shovel with his thoughts, “Rest areas are meant to be for fatigue management so we can pull over for rest breaks (trucks). A heap of them should have got together and all pulled up there blocking the way, sorry officer due for my break,” he said. A veteran driver didn’t miss the opportunity to have a crack at caravaners. “They let the caravan industry sail on overloaded,” he said. However another driver said transport inspectors play an important role in the safety of Queensland drivers and protecting the state’s road infrastructure. “Really, how about we start with decent SAFE ROADS. Thus, will stop the vehicle fatigue and or damage. Maybe it’s high time,” he said. An angry driver questioned

if these are just revenue raisers which are interfering with truckies rest times. “Easy pickings. Spend the day checking caravans then compare the results,” he said. Another said infringements issued seemed like a reasonable ratio for a change. Truck drivers who were pulled over

were praised by another who said that 14 “heavy vehicles” out of 302 vehicles was a low number of infringements. “That means most are in compliance?” One truckie asked if any was infringed for “having a leaky hose?” I was particularly im-

The Madura Roadhouse at Roe Plains.

pressed with the comments by one respondent who had this suggestion. “If it’s a designated rest area, pull up, let them do their tests and what not then say you’re fatigued and go to bed (in the sleeper box). Not much they can do really, they can’t make you drive fatigued.”

a vehicle’s headlights on high beam within 200m of another vehicle. “Both offences carry a $55 fine and one demerit point. Enforcement of these offences is the responsibility of the Queensland Police Service,” he said.

Another $55 infringement Another column piece which received a huge response was about truckies who indicate to following vehicles they can safely overtake and face a fine if caught. Albeit a $55 fine which is hardly going to break the bank. In response to the subject some truckies asked Spy to contact authorities to ascertain what the fine is for those who flash their lights to oncoming traffic to warn of a police speed camera. A Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said it was an offence to flash vehicle headlights at other road users. It is also an offence to use

Interesting roadhouse Madura Roadhouse along the Eyre Highway in WA is an interesting place to stop according to numerous truckies who have mentioned it to Spy. Madura is located on Roe Plains and is about 1253km at the foot of the escarpment next to the Madura Pass down from the Nullarbor Plain. One driver sent Spy a pic of the Madura Pass Road which heads to a lookout about one kilometre from the roadhouse. “The view from the lookout is something spectacular,” he said. Another sent me a pic of ‘Hole 9’ near the roadhouse which is part of the aptly named Nullarbor Links

SPY ON THE ROAD 55

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Traffic crossing the Tasman Bridge.

Golf Course. That is an 18-hole course spread over 1365km with one hole in each participating town or roadhouse along the Eyre Highway. Some holes are set up specifically for the course, others are a nominated hole at an established golf course. Hole 9 is a short 125m Par 3 hole with the tee next to the service road opposite the snack bar of the Madura Pass Hotel next to the Madura Roadhouse. Spy phoned the roadhouse on a Sunday about 11am and spoke to a worker named John who said a lot of truckies stop there on average daily. “When we opened at 7am there was six trucks parked here. They can have a shower and order a sit down meal in the restaurant. Their favourite meal is bangers and mash served with gravy, salad and chips,” John said. Busy bridge More than 5000 heavy vehicles travel across one of Australia’s biggest and busiest bridges on average a day. Spy was amazed to discover one in 12 of the traffic using the massive Tasman Bridge spanning the Derwent River in Hobart are trucks. So Spy contacted the Tas-

A rest area near Injune.

manian Department of State Growth about the matter and the recorded traffic flow and received this reply. “In 2020, on average, approximately 5144 heavy vehicles crossed the Tasman Bridge each day,” the State Growth spokesman said. The Tasman Bridge is an engineering marvel and is about 1395m long, including approaches, and was the subject of a tragedy. On the evening of January 5, 1975, a bulk ore carrier travelling up the Derwent River collided with several pylons of the Tasman Bridge, causing a large section of the bridge deck to collapse onto the ship and into the river below. Twelve people were killed, including seven crew on board the ship, and the five occupants of four cars which fell 45m (150 feet) after driving off the bridge. Hobart was cut off from its eastern suburbs, and the loss of the road connection had a major social impact. The Tasman Bridge was reopened on October 8, 1977, nearly three years after its collapse, much to the delight of many. Camera loophole Speed cameras along the Tasman Bridge reportedly add a

large amount to consolidated revenue in the Apple Isle – as would be expected with such a high volume of traffic negotiating it. But some sharp-eyed truckies reckon it could indeed be much more if there wasn’t a detention loophole. “The speed cameras only work on the middle three lanes of the five lanes and not on the two outside ones,” one told Spy. Now Spy doesn’t advocate speeding however felt compelled to advise readers. Don’t feed the crocodiles Spy overheard a conversation between several truckies at a new United Roadhouse near Proserpine and it involved some people being charged and fined for feeding saltwater crocodiles in the wild. Seven people who were caught feeding crocs from the banks of the Proserpine River were recently collectively fined $2000. They had attached chicken meat to the end of rope and thrown it down the bank of the croc-infested river. It is an offence to feed crocs in the wild and warning signs are now in place. For many years there was a wonderful old Proserpine farmer named Alf Casey who

had an arm bitten off by his pet croc Charlene. Alf, who I visited many times, had a permit to keep the reptile in a large wire enclosure on his property. Far Kenworth It One of the 214 teams which competed at the Goldfield Ashes Cricket Carnival in Charters Towers was named “Far Kenworth It”. Held in late January on more than 60 fields around Charters Towers and surrounds, the Ashes is Australia’s and the southern hemisphere’s biggest cricket carnival.

Neil Schwebel with a beer at Drinkastubbie Downs during the Ashes.

ACCOUNTANTS

who specialise in Truck and Road Freight businesses Fuel Tax Credit rebates

Tax & GST planning

Business structuring

Quarterly performance meetings

Call or email Trevor for a confidential, obligation-free review of your business.

One of the strangest field names was Drinkastubbie Downs, on a private property near the Charters Towers Weir. Numerous road transport industry companies sponsored teams and truckies who managed to snare a few days off got to compete. With so many players and supporters in the town – as expected – some contracted Covid-19 after the carnival. The first confirmed Covid-19 was detected in far away Victoria a few days after the last ball was bowled. Fuel at northern outposts Rising fuel prices are al-

0468 480 234 trevor@stantonadvisory.com.au

ways a problem for our trucking companies and small operators. But spare a thought for those living on remote Torres Strait islands in the far north of Australia. The price there is around $3 a litre and it does have to be barged there from places like Cairns. However, there aren’t many trucks on these islands and the road network is at the most about 10km long so obviously the volume of fuel sold would be much lower than on the mainland. It would be fair to say that more fuel is sold to boat owners than for trucks and cars.

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE

56 COLUMN contributors@bigrigs.com.au

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Fighting back for drivers against ‘Amazon Effect’ EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NEWS RICHARDOLSEN OLSEN RICHARD TWU NSW State Secretary TWU NSW/QLD State Secretary

WE CANNOT ALLOW THE LIKES OF AMAZON TO KEEP DRAGGING DOWN LEGAL EAGLEIN ROAD STANDARDS ROWAN KING Principal Lawyer RK Law TRANSPORT. ”

THE transport industry faces a race to the bottom, encouraged by the involvement of global corporations like Amazon. The ‘Amazon Effect’ is attacking good, secure transport jobs in the interests of increasing the bottom line for company shareholders, not transport operators. We know the federal government could fix the problem, but we also know Scott Morrison is refusing to act. We remain concerned at what the TWU sees as exploitative sham contracting arrangements which operate outside our industrial relations system, the likes of Amazon and Uber are undercutting the industry and forcing other operators to attack their workers to remain competitive. Proper rates, means that

the industry can afford the investments they have made into their own trucks, maintenance and road costs like Transurban toll roads and the hike in fuel prices. Our roads will only get more deadly if the financial security and safety conditions transport workers rely on are ripped out from under them by the ‘Amazon Effect’. Since Amazon came into Australia they have called police to block the TWU from inspecting conditions in workplaces, sacked dozens of drivers after they’d spoken to the TWU and failed to train workers on safety. We cannot allow the likes of Amazon to keep dragging down standards in road transport. Senator Glenn Sterle has

TWU NEWS

RICHARD OLSEN

Richard Olsen announces a win over the ‘Amazon Effect’ at a media event in Sydney last month.

published a Senate report that provided recommendations to the federal government to establish an independent body to create and enforce minimum standards in road transport. So far from the federal government: dead silence. The TWU are taking on the ‘Amazon Effect’ as we want to make sure that it does not damage our industry.

The TWU has announced a very important win from the NSW Industrial Relations Commission who have ruled that a minimum wage rate must be set for owner-drivers who run what you transport, on the ‘last mile’, under the General Carriers Contract Determination. We led an industry-wide consultation which has seen a significant increase to min-

imum rates of pay that have not changed for 15 years. The minimum pay rate for an owner-driver of vehicles 3t and under was set at $28 almost 15 years ago. With stagnant rates of pay, some drivers have been left behind earning below minimum wage after costs. For some it’s an increase of more than 40 per cent implemented over the next three years.

It sets up for the industry another minimum floor on which conditions can be improved, and the negative impact of the ‘Amazon Effect’ will be removed. NSW has also become the first jurisdiction in the world to mandate enforceable rates for Amazon drivers. Workers and the community need job security, fairness and safety.

No matter where or when - Rest cool & easy with Webasto Isotherm Compressor Fridge 16L Fridge/Freezer Drawer 30L Fridge Drawer 49L Upright Fridge Compact with multiple installation options.

Fresco 3000 Low profile, light weight, DC powered, rear mount 12 or 24v Air Conditioning.

Cool Split 20 High Performance 2kW cooling, very low noise, low profile, light weight, rear or roof mounted 12 or 24v Air Conditioning.

Cool Top RTE 16 High performance, 1.6kW, lightweight, low profile, roof mounted 24v electric parking cooler. Cooling without engine idling. Integrated low voltage battery cut-off ensures engine re-start. Easy Installation via vehicle roof hatch.

Air Top 2000 STC 2 kW Diesel Fired Cab Heater for non idling heating. Powerful, quiet, fast & compact. Webasto Thermo & Comfort Australia Pty Ltd 1800 244 494 | svc-info@webasto.com

Air Control Transport Refrigeration 12 Alice St Bassendean 6054 08 9279 9944 Heavylec 587 South Rd Regency Park 5010 08 8347 4246

For more Webasto Australia-wide Service Partners visit:

www.webasto.com

Wicko's Auto Electrics South West VIC & South East SA 0419 305 114

AAA Cooling & Trimming 9 Catalina Dr Tullamarine 3043 0417 858 009

Trans Air & Electrics VIC & Albury 0429 842 644

Mavin Truck Centre 5 Woolford Cres Kempsey 2440 02 6562 6211

VIC

Wagga Car Radio 379 Edward St Wagga Wagga 2650 02 6925 6111

NSW

Crowhurst Auto Electrical 6 Highgate St Auburn 2144 02 9748 0488

VIC

Webasto Authorised Installer Network

NSW

RT ERTON

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

Wakefield Trucks 1174-1180 Port Wakefield Dr Burton 5110 08 8280 8133

All products are supplied with a 2 year warranty

COLUMN 57

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Give wharf carriers relief from empty container fee VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

WHARF carriers servicing ports around Australia are no strangers to exorbitant fees and charges that have been creeping into their cost structures for years. Rising infrastructure charges levied by the stevedores and storage fees for empty containers by the shipping companies have been eroding already small margins, with the operator left to wear the costs or pass them on through the supply chain. The latest such fee to eat into operator margins at the wharf is a demurrage charge imposed by shipping yards on transport companies for not returning empty containers to their designated location within 10 days of collection.

While not new, this charge – starting from approximately $250 a day and increasing depending upon the type of container – has been exacerbated by close contact labour shortages and other Covid restrictions that have prevented wharf carriers from returning empty boxes within 10 days. The VTA has issued a plea for the shipping lines that impose these costs to extend the period for empties being returned so that wharf carriers can start to clear the backlog as drivers return to work. In a recent letter to freight transport assistant minister Scott Buchholz, we outlined the impact this issue is having on wharf carriers, and of the likelihood that consumers will ultimately pay for the additional costs in the form of higher prices. The financial impacts are stark: over the next four weeks it is estimated nearly $500,000 per day will be taken out of the port supply chain through empty container return penalties. This will continue until the backlog and blockages are overcome, underscoring the importance of our plea for

shipping lines to show some leniency and extend the transport window for empty containers. While the VTA represents only a small percentage of wharf carriers throughout Australia, our members are some of the country’s biggest container transport companies. This membership has been discussing the issue of demurrage charges for the return of empty containers at some length. The system of returning empty containers to their respective shipping companies’ empty yard in Melbourne has become more difficult since the shipping lines decided other lines’ containers could not be accepted. This issue has recently been exacerbated by Covid restrictions that have wreaked havoc on operators’ workforces. The systems that once worked with a great deal of effort are now becoming blocked and slowed as containers cannot be delivered to customers, and transport yards overflow with full and empty containers. Operators and their cus-

tomers are trying to work their way through the backlog and restrictions. But they need some assistance. The VTA is requesting that the minister’s office investigate this issue with the intention to address the shipping lines if the above claims are proven to be correct. We are requesting the shipping lines extend their empty container return period from 10 to 20 for the next two months only. By providing this concession wharf carriers will be able invest in additional resources to overcome the problem. This sector of the port supply chain is suffering under the current empty container return parameters, cannot negotiate with the shipping lines and needs assistance from another party that can exert common sense influence. The consequence of these additional costs is inevitably higher consumer prices. Wharf carriers cannot be expected to wear such crippling and unsustainable penalties and will be forced to pass them through the

Fleet Savings and Carbon Footprint Calculator Discover how switching your engine oil could help your fleet generate cost and carbon savings.

TRY THE CALCULATOR HERE www.shell.com.au/savingscalculator or scan the QR code

Heavy Duty Diesel Engine Oil

This sector of the port supply chain is suffering under the current empty container return parameters.

supply chain to avoid exposing themselves to potentially disastrous financial pressure. Of course, this can all be avoided if the shipping lines agree to our plea to simply extend the 10-day window for empties being returned. During the pandemic, shipping lines, stevedores and road and rail freight operators have generally worked remarkably well together to navigate the enormous supply chain pressures

that have emerged. It is indeed encouraging that peak maritime groups have recognised this latest challenge, with Ports Australia suggesting “shipping lines sit down with the businesses calling for this respite to work through their problems.” As an industry group we certainly concur with the need for conversations between shipping lines and wharf carriers to resolve the problem.

avman

58 COLUMN

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Creating an understanding of career options

COST CUTTER CHET CLINE AIR CTI founder/owner

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE

and logistics workers. We need to do this by showing that we welcome males, females, transgender people, and everyone who is willing to work. If we do not do this, we are going to EDITOR be in trouble fulfilling the reJAMES GRAHAM james.graham@bigrigs.com.au quirements of the ever-increasing freight task. At the Transport Women Australia Limited IWD events, we will be highlighting many different women. We have the incredible Frances Ross of Ross Transport telling of her transport journey at the Wollongong dinner (March 9); we have aNEWS panel of three women at TWU the Melbourne dinner (March RICHARD OLSEN TWU State Secretary 8)–NSWRuza Zivkusic-Aftasi, a transport journalist, now TV host, Benish Chaudhry, a university professor and Louise Iozzi who has been involved with AFLW and the world of car racing. At the Dubbo breakfast (March 11), I will be joined by the amazing Sally Tipping who will speak about her Wave to a Truckie campaign and then the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator chief prosecutor Belinda Hughes will present a seminar on enforceable undertakings. At the Albury/Wodonga

breakfast (March 15) we will have a breakfast speaker followed by the same speaker and seminar as Dubbo on enforceable undertakings presented by the NHVR. TASSIE TRUCKIN’ Sydney (March 10), JONFor WALLIS contributors@bigrigs.com.au we have something different; Schon Condon of Condon Agency, this fascinating gentleman will speak about supporting women in business and in the community. I will look forward to hearing Schon’s views and his overview on this year’s International Women’s Day theme. In the past weeks we have LEGAL EAGLE had ourKING TWAL planning ROWAN Principal Lawyer and RK Law we have many weekend events and some new projects now in the initial stages. We hope to launch later this year. Of course, focus has been on the IWD events and now will turn to our Driving the Difference conference to be held June 3-5 in Melbourne. I am looking forward to this after two postponements. We are grateful to sponsors who stayed committed and our speakers who are eager to participate. We have an amazing programme and exciting weekend planned for attendees.

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

WOMEN IN TRANSPORT TRANSPORT WOMEN IN JACQUELENE BROTHERTON JACQUELENE BROTHERTON Chair of Transport WomenWomen Australia Chair of Transport

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

Australia

AS International Women’s Day (IWD) is upon us and this year’s theme is #breakthebias, we will be inundated with articles about parity, equality, and quotas and all these other buzzwords. What we should be concentrating on is not the bias THE OZ TRUCKER but creating an understandMIKE WILLIAMS contributors@bigrigs.com.au ing about the reality of careers within the trucking and logistics industry. Without breaking down those image barriers, we will never have the workforce that we really need. We need to show how diverse and inclusive the industry is, so we can fill those roles for truck drivers, operations personnel, diesel technicians and so forth. Until we can breakdown LOBBYIST the image of the industry beSTEVE SHEARER SA Road Transport Association ing all about truck drivers or Executive Director males, we will not attract the next generation of transport

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

The Queensland board member, Elizabeth McGrath ,has resigned after two years, and we wish her every success in the future. She has been a very caring member on the board for those two years, and we know that she will continue to support TWAL at every opportunity. In the coming weeks will be expanding some of the current programmes and launching some subcommittees. These subcommittees will be chaired by board directors, but we will be calling upon members for participation. We will have a new board member begin as coordinator for the Creating Connections Mentoring programme and she will reach out to all mentors and mentees, and I am sure that this will prove a great boost to this excellent programme. We hope to see you at one of our many events real soon and if you have any queries about the International Women’s Day events, Driving the Difference conference in June, please reach out to chair@transportwomen.com. au, or call 0417422319.

Sally Tipping will talk about her Wave to a Truckie Campaign at the Dubbo breakfast on March 11.

HEAVY DUTY REPAIR SOLUTIONS ELECTRONIC & MECHATRONIC REPAIRS FOR ALL SORTS OF HEAVY DUTY COMPONENTS Daewoo Chiron Bus Instrument Cluster

KOBELCO RK70 TRANSMISSION ECM

KENWORTH T600 ECM

TCMRK70REP

ECM3406BREP

HINO DUTRO INSTRUMENT CLUSTER

DAF XF1058 CENTRAL LOCKING MODULE

DASXZU411REP

BCMXF105REP

CUMMINS N14 ECM

CUMMINS ADBLUE DOSER PUMP

ECMCID3REP

APMCIDREP

The Daewoo Chiron and UBC Omnibus (2010 – 2015) are fitted with a P1851100640 Instrument cluster. These instrument clusters have an inherent design fault, and are now difficult to source from the OE dealer. The cluster displays vehicle and equipment details such as speed, RPM, fuel amount, coolant temperatures, and other warning information. This information is communicated to various on-board modules like the ECM, TCM and ABS. When a cluster fails, the driver will experience faults such as, no display or gauge function, no communication to the dash cluster module, smoke, or a burnt smell from the dash cluster. Injectronics offer a complete test and repair service of the Instrument cluster saving money and vehicle downtime.

Part Number DASCHIRREP

injectronics.com.au | 1300 30 80 60

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Celebrating trucking’s quiet achievers ATA CHAIR DAVID SMITH Australian Trucking Association

OVER the past two years, people working in the trucking industry have shouldered much of the responsibility of keeping Australia moving. They’ve weathered Covid-19 lockdowns and lock outs, bushfires, fuel shortages and more. Now as we emerge from the Covid cloud, it’s the time to celebrate these quiet achievers at the 2022 National Trucking Industry Awards, to be held during the Trucking Australia conference at The Star on the Gold Coast from May 4-6. Nominations for the 2022 National Trucking Industry Awards are open in the following categories: • Outstanding Contribution to the Trucking Industry • National Trucking Industry Woman of the Year • National Professional Driver of the Year

Roslyn Anderson.

Robert Cavanagh.

Russell Lee.

• N ational Training Excellence Award You just need to look at our past winners to understand the calibre of people we have in our industry. The current holder of the ‘Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Trucking Industry’ award, Robert Cavanagh is a perfect example. Robert has worked in the rural transport industry since he became a truck driver in 1985. He’s now renowned as an expert in livestock transport and known for his capacity for future thinking, ability to adapt to change and as an

early adopter of technology and modern business practices. Roslyn Anderson is another great example of the best and brightest in our industry. She is the reigning National Trucking Industry Woman of the Year, thanks to her years of the service to the industry. Roslyn became committed to road safety after working for a smash repairer and seeing the damage a truck crash can do. Roslyn is also the Vice Chair and Treasurer of Women in Trucking Australia and is a certified practicing accountant.

The current National Professional Driver of the Year is Russell Lee who has been driving road trains for more than 31 years. Russell started his Australian based driving career working for a small BP distributor in Darwin, Australian Fuel Distributors and now drives quad road trains between Darwin and Alice Springs carting more than 140,000 litres per load. The 2022 National Trucking Industry Awards will be presented at Trucking Australia 2022, to be held from May 4-6 at The Star, Gold Coast,

during the ATA Foundation Sponsors Gala Awards Dinner. The TruckSafe John Kelly Memorial Award and the Don Watson Memorial Award will also be presented on the night. To nominate your candidate, just visit new.truck.net. au/ntia. Nominations close on April 1. At Trucking Australia, you will have the opportunity to participate in our exclusive workshops and panel discussions as we explore the challenges and future innovation for the industry. When the business sessions are over, you’ll be able to enjoy our social events and network with new and old colleagues in a city like no other. Be sure to register now to access our limited time discount of $100 off our MEGA deal and full conference pass tickets. Other registration and social packages, including our business sessions only, are also available. The event at The Star will help the industry make up for lost time. We’ve had two years of Covid where we’ve all been battling in our respective bub-

COLUMN 59

NOW AS WE EMERGE FROM THE COVID CLOUD, IT’S THE TIME TO CELEBRATE THESE QUIET ACHIEVERS AT THE 2022 NATIONAL TRUCKING INDUSTRY AWARDS, TO BE HELD DURING THE TRUCKING AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE AT THE STAR ON THE GOLD COAST FROM MAY 4-6.” DAVID SMITH

bles. Now’s the time to come back together to work on the issues we really need to discuss like driver shortages and the supply chain. Trucking Australia will be such a great opportunity to have your say and help shape the direction of our industry. See our website (truck.net. au) for more information. “The ATA is looking forward to a great conference with valuable, interactive and engaging sessions.”

40 PUZZLES PUZZLES 60 2

ACROSS 1 If you are a collector of Clarice Cliff, what do you collect? (7) 4 What Latin American dance is performed by several people in single file? (5) 7 What are lengthwise threads on a loom? (4) 8 What is the capital of Liberia? (8) 10 In 1982, who made the first televised 147 break in snooker? (5,5) Across Which inventor (Thomas ____) took out more than a 4 12 Which device resembles a windlass (7) thousand patents in his lifetime? (6) 8 13 Name great of“Rule the Earth, equidistant Whatthe is the lastcircle word of Britannia”? (6) 15 Thethe Misfits in 1961 was the last film from North and South Poles (7)starring Marilyn Monroe and which other actor? (5,5) 9 18 What is atorare green of beryl,ahighly Native Central andvariety South America, tamandua is what type valued asofaanimal? gem (7)(8) What cloth is spread over a coffin? (4) 10 19 Name final course of afor meal (7) long time”? (5) 20 Whatthe is an informal word “a very 11 21 Which of trading is an offence (7) (7) Whattype disease is also known as lockjaw?

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 7

7 11

15 17

SUDOKU

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 18 19 1 to 9. box contains the digits

QUICK 20

12 Name a fatal, infectious disease of the brain (6) 14 What was an earlier term for silver (6) 19 Who tends a person in sickness (5) 18 What is a word formed from the initial letters of 20 What are counterfoils of chequebooks (5) other words (7) 21 What was the profession of Rembrandt (7) 22 Name a group of persons who associate closely (7) DOUBLECROSS CROSSWORD 23 Melted cheese eaten on toast is known as 3 4 5 6 7 Find a ﬁnished crossword by deleting one of Welsh ... (7) two letters in each divided square. 8 Which colourless liquid hydrocarbon is used as the 24 a solvent (7) 10

Down

1 What might we call one who trades in drugs (7) 12 2 Which term describes a person who is13 entertained at the house of another (5) 316 Name a lofty tower attached17 to a church (7)

23 24

Down 1. Jail (8) 2. Initially (5) 4. Paddle (3) 5. Abstinence (5,7) 6. Dare (7) 7. Informant (colloq) (4) 8. Feeling, atmosphere (12) 12. Happen (5) 13. Leans (8) 15. Free time (7) 19. Punctuation mark (5) 20. Competent (4) 22. Low (3)

SOLUTIONS

5x5

SUDOKU E G R E T

R E E D S

ALPHAGRAMS: LEASE, MYRIAD, NEARING, ORGANIST, PATRONESS.

DOUBLECROSS

G E A R S

GK CROSSWORD Across; 1 Pottery, 4 Conga, 7 Warp, 8 Monrovia, 10 Steve Davis, 12 Edison, 13 Slaves, 15 Clark Gable, 18 Anteater, 19 Pall, 20 Yonks, 21 Tetanus. Down: 1 Pawns, 2 Turmeric, 3 Yeoman, 4 Cardiology, 5 Nova, 6 Amadeus, 9 New Orleans, 11 Eva Braun, 12 Estuary, 14 Argent, 16 Ellis, 17 Eton.

Y N E E S V E T R E N E N I E S

HARD

amir amrita aria arum atria atrium attar aura auric carat cart Across: 1 Trot, 6tart Via,tiara 7 Dune, 9 Even, 10 Cages, 11 Recur, 12 Old, 14 Tenet, 17 cram curt marc maria mart raita rata rimu tarmac tract trait tram trauma TRAUMATICRoost, trim 20 Ore, 21 Cadet, 23 Began, 25 Mien, 26 Iron, 27 Tic, 28 Tees.

M D U A G R E N O T I C E

U T

M I

E M I T

TODAY: Good 13 Very Good 18 Excellent 24

T I A C N E C U T S T C A D A N T N

C A

A T

T R O V R E V E R M O L D R O O W B E G I R O G D

How many words of four letters or more can you make? Each letter must be used only once and all words must contain the centre letter. There is at least one nine-letter word. No words starting with a capital are allowed, no plurals ending in s unless the word is also a verb.

Down: 1 Tremor, 2 Overdo, 3 Tine, 4 Mug, 5 Yes, 7 Dare, 8 Never, 10 Cut, 13 Lower, 15 Notice, 16 Tennis, 18 Scan, 19 Tan, 22 Emit, 23 Big, 24 God.

EASY

QUICK CROSSWORD Across: 1. Iffy 3. Forgiven 9. Partner 10. Inner 11. In the long run 14. Owl 16. Cacti 17. Eon 18. Hierarchical 21. Brute 22. Maudlin 23. Election 24. Ants. Down: 1. Imprison 2. First 4. Oar 5. Going without 6. Venture 7. Nark 8. Undercurrent 12. Occur 13. Inclines 15. Leisure 19. Colon 20. Able 22. Moo.

WORD GO ROUND

Across 1 Easy pace 6 By way of 7 Low sandhill 7 8 9 Level 10 Wired enclosures 11 Happen again 12 Of advanced age 14 Dogma ALPHAGRAMS 17 Henhouse Solve the anagrams. Each solution a one-word rock 20 isMetal-bearing anagram of the letters beside it, and the five solutions 21 Military are sequential. For example, if the five-lettertrainee solution 23starts Commenced starts with J, the six-letter solution with K, and so 15 16 on. 25 Bearing 26 Golf club EASEL 27 Facial twitch DIM RAY 20 28 Golfing aids GRANNIE Down ROASTING 22 1 Vibration TRANSPOSE 2 Carry too far Insert3the missing letters to Fork spike 5x5 make ten words — five reading 4 the Drinking vessel 25 across grid and five reading A G R down.5 Acceptance 7 more Challenge Note: than one solution I G may be 8 possible. At no time 10 Incision S A E 13 Let down R E 15 Observe 28 16 Sport All puzzles © T S S The Puzzle Company 18 Scrutinise 19 Make brown 22 Send out 23 Large 24 Deity

Across 1. Uncertain (colloq) (4) 3. Absolved (8) 9. Associate (7) 10. From inside (5) 11. Over time (2,3,4,3) 14. Night bird (3) 16. Succulent plants (5) 17. Immeasurable period of time (3) 18. Arranged by rank (12) 21. Violent person (5) 22. Tearfully sentimental (7) 23. Poll (8) 24. Colony insects (4)

HARD

N I T R E

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

A S S E T

SUDOKU

EASY

MOORE

QUICK CROSSWORD

SOLUTION

10 2

6/6 DOWN 1 Which chess pieces are most numerous? (5) 2 What bright yellow powder is used for flavouring in Asian cookery? (7) 3 In early England, what was a small landholder between gentry and labourers? (6) 4 What branch of medicine is concerned with diseases and abnormalities of the heart? (10) 54 A starWhat that suddenly brightens term then gradually fades is is an alternative for a stupid person (6) called what? (4) 5 What is the newspaper industry known as (5) 6 Which film, 1984’s Best Picture Oscar winner, was 6 in Which term filmed Prague? (7)describes nonsense (7) 97 Where was Louis born? What is theArmstrong lowest point, as(3,7) of adversity (5) 11 Which woman was married on 29 April 1945, and died 13following Nameday? a British the (3,5) reformatory for young offenders (7) 1215 What is the widening channel of athe river where saltwatercoast (7) Which resort region is on Mediterranean mixes with freshwater? (7) 16 What are small towers also known as (7) 14 In heraldry, what is the colour silver? (6) Name the unitfrom of electrical (6) entry 1617 Millions of records which UScurrent immigration island are accessible on town the internet? (5) for its nearby 18 Which English is famous 17 Which English college was founded by Henry VI in racecourse (5) 1440? (4)

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Across: 4 Capstan, 8 Equator, 9 Emerald, 10 Dessert, 11 Insider, 12 Rabies, 14 Argent, 18 Acronym, 21 Painter, 22 Coterie, 23 Rarebit, 24 Toluene.

Down: 1 Peddler, 2 Guest, 3 Steeple, 4 Cretin, 5 Press, 6 Twaddle, 7 Nadir, 13 Borstal, 15 Riviera, 16 Turrets, 17 Ampere, 18 Ascot, 19 Nurse, 20 Stubs.

G E N E R 1A L 8 K N O 10 W L E D G 12E

FRIDAY JUNE 12 2020 BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

More Trailer For Your Money

TRAILERS

PITTSWORTH PHONE (07) 4693 1088 Fax (07) 4693 1545 email: sales@mooretrailers.com.au www.mooretrailers.com.au IBRE01Z01MA - V1

CAREERS AND TRAINING 61

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022

Passing the baton from one generation to the next Operations manager, sales manager and now fuel truck driver. Melissa Riley is kicking goals in her mother’s business.

Riley (right) with her mother, West Tankers director Bronwyn Wilson, and her two daughters Leah and Asha.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI WEST Tankers was started in Newcastle in 2002 when Melissa Riley’s parents decided to import a fuel tanker from Japan. “My mum Bronwyn Wilson got her licence 20 years ago and she would cart fuel,” said Riley. She recalls how she would get up early and jump in the

truck with her mother or pop. After school and on weekends, she would help wash, clean and service the trucks and tankers, and travel in the passenger seat to deliver fuel all over NSW. After finishing year 10, Riley, now 27, went straight to work in the West Tankers office, where she began learning all there was to know about run-

ning the business, while studying her Diploma in Business Administration. Working by her mother’s side, Riley has helped to grow the family business, which now employs 15 people and runs a fleet of 14 rigid fuel tankers. While working full time scheduling the company’s fleet, Riley also welcomed two daughters Leah (7) and Asha (4). In October 2020, Riley took the next step in her career and got her HR licence and plans to upgrade again in the future. “Because my mum owns the business I work for, I’m definitely trying to follow on in her footsteps. I get into the truck three days a week, helping out and grabbing fuel, and managing everything else. “As a young woman, I am passionate about women in the fuel and transport industry and I love getting people involved and letting them see what we do and how we do it. The main thing I hope is that I can teach

my two little girls that they can do anything in any industry – and hopefully they will follow on in the family business as well,” Riley added. “I’ve grown up in a family business and I’m working my way to start taking over the business so Mum can semi-retire. She loves being a Nan and looking after the grandkids but she’ll still get behind the wheel when she has to. I very much hope my daughters will be in the business too, and that it will eventually keep getting passed down the line.” Recognised for her strong work ethic, Riley was awarded a Driving the Difference scholarship late last year by Transport Women Australia Limited (TWAL) and Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific. She will now undertake Certificate IV in training and assessment. West Tankers has also celebrated its 20th anniversary with a new pink fuel tanker that was added to the fleet in December.

Along with managing sales and operations at West Tankers, Melissa Riley got her HR licence in 2020.

Easter Group Pty Ltd 73 Formation St, Wacol Easter Group, located in Wacol, provides time sensitive road transporting solutions to many companies throughout Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. . We are a family owned business, operating since 1976. We currently have the following positions available:

OPERATIONS ALLOCATORS (Brisbane based only)

You will be required to work on a rotating roster including Days-Nights-Weekends Previous Operations experience preferred.

MC LOCAL & LINEHAUL DRIVERS WANTED

(Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide Based) Come and work for us as we are committed to: • Training and further education • Your safety • Maintaining an impressive Fleet On offer are permanent full time and roster positions including paid leave entitlements and public holidays. Drivers will need to be available to be scheduled for work falling across the 7 days of the week. The successful Applicant will: • Hold a current MC licence (minimum two years) • Have knowledge of the HVNL and Load Restraint • Be professional • Be reliable

To apply for the Operations/Driver positions please contact Operations Manager or by emailing your resume to

WANT TO JOIN THE FAMILY? At Followmont, we care about our people and recognise that they are the secret to our success. Whether you are looking to drive premium fleet across some of the most beautiful parts of our state or learn the operational skills behind the freight industry, Followmont is your employer of choice. Visit followmont.com.au for all our latest roles or contact us today recruitment@followmont.com.au to find out more. followmont.com.au

WORKSHOP MECHANICS & TYRE FITTERS WANTED (Brisbane based only)

To apply for Mechanic positions please forward your resume to Workshop Manager via email to employment@kseaster.com.au

62 SPONSORED CONTENT CAREERS AND TRAINING

FRIDAY MARCH 04 2022 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

BlueCard: Go digital, stay current, and stay safe

BLUECARD, the transport and logistics industry’s Work Health and Safety induction training certification system, is moving into the future. TEACHO Ltd, which issues BlueCards, is introducing a new ‘digital credential’ or ‘badge’ to replace the old plastic cards. All BlueCard holders can obtain a new digital version of their existing card at no cost. “We’re staying in step with other industries,” said Arthur Banos, TEACHO’s BlueCard coordinator, who has been managing the program for eight years. “Rail and construction safety induction cards have gone digital. They’re more secure, quicker to issue, and you store them on your phone - you don’t have to carry around plastic cards, which are easily lost or damaged.” In line with the industry’s commitment to safety, and in response to changes in national training packages, BlueCards need to be renewed every five years. Michael Kaine, national secretary of the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and

THE SAFETY OF OUR MEMBERS IS A KEY PRIORITY FOR THE UNION. WE APPLAUD THE EMPLOYERS WHO ENDORSE BLUECARD AS THE MINIMUM SAFETY STANDARD AND ENCOURAGE ALL OUR MEMBERS TO ENGAGE IN THE PROCESSES REQUIRED TO REMAIN CURRENT.” ARTHUR BANOS

TEACHO director, reflects on the importance of the program. “The safety of our members is a key priority for the union. We applaud the employers who endorse BlueCard as the minimum safety standard and encourage all our members to engage in the processes required to remain current.” Existing cards are aligned to four different, historical training units, and in 2022, a new unit is being introduced which supersedes the current course. Some BlueCards were issued up to 20 years ago, so many

TEACHO’s BlueCard coordinator Arthur Banos and TEACHO interim CEO Simon Earle.

workers in the industry will have to take action to retain a valid card. TEACHO interim CEO Simon Earle added, “BlueCard training has changed a lot over the years. We need to acknowl-

edge that and ensure everyone is up to date. To achieve this, in a cost and time effective way without compromising safety, we need to recognise people’s existing skills and experience. The training system is com-

plex, and that’s where we can help.” TEACHO is working closely with their approved training providers to identify and develop pathways to bring old BlueCards in line with the new

standards. This means that if someone has an expired BlueCard, there may be alternative options to attending a full training course. “If you have a BlueCard, we want to help you keep it,” said Paul Ryan, TEACHO chair and the National Industrial Advisor of the Australian Road Transport Industrial Organisation (ARTIO). “It’s a key element of maintaining and improving safety standards across the freight and logistics industry, which is the key rationale behind TEACHO and its operations.” By connecting with BlueCard holders and issuing digital badges, TEACHO will be able to assist and advise workers and employers across the transport and logistics industry on what is required to remain current with the national training requirements. Go to bluecard.com.au/digital, or scan the QR Code in the TEACHO advertisement in this edition of Big Rigs. There, you will find more information about maintaining or renewing your BlueCard, and how to get your new Digital BlueCard.

Fuel Driver Opportunities Nationally The Role Toll Group have full time permanent opportunities for experienced MC/ HC drivers and new drivers wanting to expand their career path for our Fuels Business operating in QLD/ NSW/ VIC/ SA & WA. Benefits: • Permanent Full Time Opportunity • Great hourly Rates and allowances • Career advancement and training opportunities • Safety Obsessed Culture • Modern Fleet with replacement programs. • Varying Rosters to provide a work/ life balance • 5 Weeks A/L Skills & Experience • Current MC/HC driver’s license • Current Dangerous Goods (DG) license preferred. • Experience in bulk fuel is preferred, but all training will be provided • Basic Fatigue Management accreditation preferred • Experienced MC and HC Drivers

Working at Toll At Toll Fuels we are proud to be a leading logistics provider of bulk liquid, you name it we do it from Metro service stations, Jet and Avgas to Mine site distribution with local and linehaul options. And we know our success is due to the quality and skill of our talented people - quite simply, our people are our most valuable asset. We work hard to create a workplace that supports our people’s careers and that is a safe, respectful and inclusive place to work. When you join Toll, you’ll join customerfocused people who are working across locations nationally and overseas. Our employees are passionately committed to our vision - to deliver outstanding logistics solutions for our customers, at every stage of the supply chain.

INDUSTRY LEADING RATES OF PAY & SUPERANUATION OF 15% ROSTERS THAT PROVIDE WORK/ LIFE BALANCE IF YOU WANT TO LEARN FUEL WE’RE WILLING TO TRAIN THE RIGHT PEOPLE

If you are interested in any of these roles, please contact John Markham via email at john.markham@ tollgroup.com or phone 0402 965 715 to discuss further. Toll embraces and celebrates a variety of cultures. We continue to build a business that reflects the values of equality, built on the knowledge and understanding that everyone is welcome including the First Nations Peoples, and those of all ages, genders, and abilities. Women are actively encouraged to apply. All applicants must be entitled to work in Australia and be prepared to undergo a criminal history check, pre-employment medical and/ or drug & alcohol testing as required.

Time to renew your BlueCard? Go Digital.

Depots: Brisbane, Sydney, Grafton, Port Macquarie and Taree Depots: Brisbane, Sydney, Grafton, Port Macquarie and Taree

Benefits include:

Scan here to find out more.

www.bluecard.com.au/digital

Stay current. Stay safe.

Transport Education Audit Compliance Health Organisation

• Fulltime employment Benefits include: • Aboveemployment Award klm rates • Fulltime – paid weekly • Above Award klm rates • Paid Pickups – paid weekly & Drops

• Modern & well maintained fleet safe&working environment •• Drug Modern well maintained fleet • On going training • Drug safe working environment •• Uniforms On goingsupplied training

• Paid Pickups & Drops

• Uniforms supplied

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, PLEASE ROSS ON 0402 014 939. IFPHONE YOU ARE INTERESTED, PLEASE

PHONE ROSS ON 0402 014 939.

FULL TIME TRUCK DRIVER ROLES AVAILABLE FOR HR & HC TIPPERS

POWERING YOUR MODERN WORKFORCE

DRIVERS WANTED Mad Brothers Earthmoving Pty Ltd have a large fleet of Tipper Trucks and various types of Earthmoving equipment. Our fleet operates within Melbourne's Metropolitan Suburbs and surrounding Regional areas on a wide range of civil and construction projects. Despite these COVID times our company has experienced growth over the past two years to offer all our staff job security and stable income. We take a lot of pride in our fleet, we have a one truck one driver policy to ensure COVID safety. We are looking for responsible drivers that take pride in their truck and work; someone who is genuinely interested in becoming part of our growing team. We currently have both HR and HC driver positions available, and offer a great training program. All roles are day shift only with optional Saturday work available. Requirements to be successful in these positions: Road Ranger experience essential

Focus on Safety

A reliable Can-Do approach

LOCAL, INTERSTATE, CHANGEOVER, LINEHAUL. HR, HC AND MC.

SECURE, LONG TERM WORK AS WELL AS CASUAL/WEEKEND OPTIONS AVAILABLE.

WORK AVAILABLE ACROSS REGIONAL AND METROPOLITAN NSW, QLD, VICTORIA AND SA. WORK WITH AUSTRALIA'S BEST KNOWN ASX LISTED BLUE CHIP COMPANIES.

We are offering you: Full Time Permanent Roles

Above Award Rates

Good Working Environment in Family Owned and Operated Company

If this sounds like the role for you our Transport Manager SHAUN MOLONEY would love to hear from you TODAY! Please forward your resume to - shaun@madbrosearthmoving.com

Mad Brothers Earthmoving Pty Ltd | Melbourne, Western Suburbs

SEND YOUR RESUME TO TRANSPORT@QUESTPERSONNEL.COM.AU

OR DROP IN TO ONE OF OUR OFFICE LOCATIONS OR CALL US ON 02) 6021 4554 TO DISCUSS WHAT WE HAVE AVAILABLE.

OWD-QV-5168668-TS-344

Wehave haveaanumber number of of driving We driving positions positions availablefor for HC HC & & MC MC LINEHAUL available LINEHAUL DRIVERS to be based at our depots DRIVERS to be based at our depots in the following areas: in the following areas:

OWD-QV-5168668-TS-344

POSITIONS AVAILABLE AVAILABLE POSITIONS

ONLY THE TOUGHEST GEAR

TO BE WORN BY THE TOUGHEST TRUCKS SILVERBACK CHROME

AUSSIE CURVE

WEST COAST CURVE

BULLHORN CURVE

MITRE CUT

STRAIGHT CUT

SILVERBACK STAINLESS

BUG DEFLECTOR

1300 885 089

STEER FLARE

QUARTER FENDER

SINGLE FENDER

BRACKETS & MOUNTS

silverbackarmour.com.au