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FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
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Whiteline boss shares heartfelt tribute to her No. 1
EDITOR James Graham: 0478 546 462 james.graham@primecreative.com.au REPORTER Danielle Gullaci danielle.gullaci@primecreative.com.au 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 Tassie Truckin: Jon Wallis, 0414 797 513 Truckin in the Topics: Alf Wilson, 0408 009 301 Brent Davison; David Vile; David Meredith; Ian Lee Big Rigs National Road Transport Newspaper is published by Prime Creative Media. All material is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or means. The opinions expressed in Big Rigs are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by, the publisher.
Kingy’s larger-than-life personality and legendary sense of humour endeared him to everyone he met.
YOU couldn’t wipe the smile from Kingsley Bowley’s face every time he stepped up into the cab of his shiny new silver Cascadia. The 67-year-old, affectionately known as Kingy – or No.1 around the Whiteline Transport yard in Adelaide – reckoned the state-of-the-art rig would see him right for at least the next 10 years. Sadly, however, the duo made their final weekly run from Perth earlier this month Whiteline boss Sharon Middleton says Kingy’s sudden death at the depot from natural causes is a devastating blow, and left everyone who knew the much-loved truckie with a heavy heart.
“Kingy has been an important and much loved team member at Whiteline for 18 years,” she writes on the company Facebook page. “Those that knew Kingy are fully aware of his largerthan-life personality, his sense of humour and his enormous heart.” Kingy drove Adelaide to Perth for Whiteline and in that time clocked up over four million safe, incident-free kilometres, said Middleton. “He loved trucking, had many friends on the road he travelled with and always had a story to tell. “Prior to Whiteline, he was one of Georgie’s boys and could always be relied on – he
was a true professional. “Kingy was loyal and dependable and we, his Whiteline Family, will miss him every day, reunited with his beloved wife Pauline. “Thank you Kingy, rest peacefully – you have earnt that. Middleton concluded by sending love and support to his sons and their families. In a measure of the respect in which he was held by the wider industry, Middleton’s Facebook message sparked an outpouring of condolences. “The tragic news yesterday knocked the breath out of me,” writes Steve Shearer, head of the South Australian Road Transport Association. “King Bowley was one of the greats of the industry. A true professional with over 4 million kms incident free over the past 17 years at Whiteline. “He was a great character who looked out for and cared for everyone on the road. His engaging smile seldom left his face and then only briefly. “You will be missed immeasurably King, and for all the best reasons. RIP mate.” Adds long-time friend Dave Fallas: “Here is a legend, 37 years I had known him, he would have set a record. I esti-
mate his driving history to be around 9 to 10 million kms. In the 80s & 90s he travelled Eden to Perth every week solo. Try if you may, that’s a benchmark! R.I.P. good friend. Kingy’s son David also
thanked Middleton for her emotional eulogy. “Such beautiful words. Thankyou Whiteline Transport for all you support and kind words in these tough times. RIP Dad. Love ya mate.”
Kingy reckoned the new Cascadia would see him right for the next 10 years.
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NEWS 3
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Kilometre rates are a scam, says Senator he believes most truckies are being woefully short-changed by the kilometre payment system. “The majority of employers in the road transport industry, predominantly in the interstate line haul sector, are absolutely ripping off their drivers,” said the WA Labor Senator. “The employers say it’s 880 kilometres between Melbourne and Sydney, so they’ll pay for 880 kilometres, not taking into account that drivers have probably spent five or six hours running around Melbourne or Sydney doing the loading. “Someone’s got to actually wash the bucket of nuts and bolts; someone’s got to put the fuel in it. They don’t pay for that. That’s all part of the kilometre rate. The drivers just do that for love! “If you have to change a tyre halfway between Melbourne and Sydney, or Sydney and Brisbane, or Adelaide and wherever—you don’t get paid for changing the tyres. That’s all part of your kilometre rate. So don’t expect to get paid for all the add-ons.
Senator Glenn Sterle told the Senate that he believes most truckies are being woefully short-changed by the kilometre payment system.
FORMER truckie-turned Senator Glenn Sterle has delivered some scathing “home truths” about truckies’ pay rates to his fellow Senators in Canberra. Speaking in a lively session on employment, Sterle
used the trucking industry to argue his point that instead of a plan for secure jobs for Australians, the Morrison government is trying to make it easier for employers to cut workers’ pay and conditions. Sterle told the Senate that
This goes on day in, day out in this nation. “I challenge anyone to tell me that I am wrong. I know I’m not wrong. I know because the drivers tell me this.” To support his case, Sterle offered up a number of examples of driver rorts he’d submitted to the Fair Work Ombudsman. “One company had $132,000 in underpayments, another had a baby amount of $35,000, another had $60,200 and another had $251,000,” he said. “How do you actually rip off your truck drivers to the tune of $251,000? Sterle said it’s clear to him that the Morrison government has no idea of the pressures that truckies are facing out on the road every day. “You don’t even put money into training for the transport industry,” he said to the Liberal bench. “This is one industry that cannot attract kids. When you hear all the horror stories about how they’re treated, the lack of toilets and the poor facilities, no wonder no-one wants to get into it.”
From the end of March truckies face $194 fines for using Pennant Hills Road without an exemption.
Amnesty ending on Pennant Hills
UNTIL now truckies caught avoiding the $24.34 NorthConnex tunnel toll in Sydney in preference for a free run along Pennant Hills Road have been issued with a warning letter. But Transport for NSW (TfNSW) says the unofficial amnesty period is concluding at the end of March and $194 fines will then be issued to those using the road who do not have exemptions. A TfNSW said that, as of March 5, some 10,623 warnings have been issued to offending trucks and buses – over 12.5 metres long or over 2.8 metres clearance height – since the 9km tunnel opened last October. Tunnel partners Transurban and TfNSW said the tunnel was expected to take 5000
trucks a day off the busy Pennant Hills thoroughfare, and dramatically improve efficiencies for transport operators. NorthConnex allows truckies to drive between Melbourne and Newcastle without encountering traffic lights by using the M7, M2 and NorthConnex – at a cost $61.54. But smaller operators say they are being unfairly slugged. “It’s a wonderful thing to be able to go from Newcastle to Melbourne without any traffic lights, but what the transport minister has forgotten to also tell us is that we can go from Wyong to Pheasant’s Nest, which is near Mittagong, without having direct access to any food or fuel,” said Rob Woolley.
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4 FEATURE
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Experts believe Victoria is impeding our PBS uptake PBS consultancy expert Robert Smedley.
ATA Chief Engineer Bob Woodward.
mit system in Victoria already has backing from Victoria’s South-West Coast MP Roma Britnell, the Shadow Minister for Rural Roads, Ports and Freight. A long-time campaigner for improvements in the way PBS paperwork is processed in the state, Britnell raised the issue again in Parliament just last month. She told the legislative assembly that she wrote to the Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll last October, expressing the serious PBS concerns that a number of industry stakeholders had made her aware of, yet five months later she had still not received a response.
“They are hurting, and they need your assistance urgently, and these vehicles are an improvement,” said Britnell. “They are better for our roads, they are safer and they cart product more effectively. So at a time post pandemic, more than ever before, let us get efficiency and productivity on the front foot for Victoria.” Britnell said Victoria is the only state in Australia that charges PBS applicants a bridge assessment fee, which she told parliament can range from $1200 to more than $55,000. She said the processing delays are exacerbated by the fact DoT is also treating each PBS
truck as a new vehicle. “Despite the fact that a new vehicle might be identical in every aspect to a vehicle that has already been assessed,” she continued. “Even a new vehicle that has only very minor differences to a previously approved vehicle should not need to be treated as new. “Whilst the nature of PBS is that vehicles are bespoke, the fact that virtually identical vehicles are not treated as being the same, meaning the application goes through this costly and lengthy bridge assessment, is nonsensical.” Britnell said an improvement in processing time and lowering of bridge assessment costs would help reduce congestion around Melbourne and in turn boost manufacturing and employment in the state. “The efficiencies these vehicles provide in moving product to market for farmers, be it dairy, be it beef, are enormous.” Woodward, who was involved in the development of the B-double and has been at the forefront of PBS discus-
sions from the outset, shares Britnell’s frustrations. “If anytime this country is going to need a good transport productivity system it’s as we come out of Covid,” he said. But until we have a consistent system of national uniformity with PBS assessments, he worries that the industry will continue to battle. “At the end of the day, the roads are owned and managed by states and local governments and they’re seeing that as their way of controlling the performance and size of vehicles they’re going to have on their roads. “I know of examples where trucks are running for a few kilometres as GML because the local council won’t allow HML, then running the next 1200-1500km as GML when they should be running at Higher Mass Limits. It’s just ridiculous.” “It’s all about people having their little say in things and all too often these people are not truly qualified to be making these assessments. “We don’t see many of these structures fail. I’m not saying they don’t, but this
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MANY in the industry believe it offers road transport the most important productivity and safety improvements since the introduction of the B-double in the 1980s. But leading engineer Robert Smedley says the uptake of the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) scheme by operators is being dramatically compromised by the mercenary approach of VicRoads, now merged with the Department of Transport (DoT). “Victoria is basically seeing PBS as a money-making exercise,” said Smedley, boss of the leading end-to-end PBS consultancy in Australia, Smedley’s Engineers. “They’re turning people away from PBS for sure, and turning people away from investing in new equipment, definitely.” To illustrate his point, Smedley cites the bizarre recent case of the Victorian agency attempting to do a costly bridge assessment on a NSW-owned structure. Bob Woodward, Chief
Engineer at the Australian Trucking Association, tells us he’d heard the same story, and that the transport operator had only escaped a hefty bill because he was already aware that the bridge across the Murray River had been PBS-approved by NSW. “Victoria is seeing the bridge assessments as a cash cow, charging anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000 per bridge, and sometimes up to $80,000 for a route, and taking six months to do it,” said Smedley. The other states provide the assessments as a free service and turn them around in a matter of two to four weeks.” Smedley believes much of the increased costs in Victoria is a result of the department’s antiquated assessment policy of sending large teams of engineers to each site. “NSW does it with a team of two to three engineers, and has got the computers doing all the work, whereas Victoria does it with a team of 40. “Its manual approach [to assessments] is screwing the industry at the moment.” Smedley’s call for an urgent review of the PBS per-
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FEATURE 5
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Victoria’s DoT says it understands the issues faced by industry and has been improving access to get goods where they need to go.
thing has got to be managed. “At present it’s too easy for road managers to say no without having to justify the answer.” Peter Anderson, CEO of the Victoria Transport Association, said there are other system restrictions in play that are compounding the PBS issue in the state. He told Big Rigs that the PBS system allows operators to live with false hope in improving productivity and safety due to the “mismatch” with the current access regime. “While operators visualise greater productivity in the application of the Performance Based Standards regimes, when putting these vehicles on the road they are rejected
due to other constraints associated with the capacities of the road infrastructure,” said Anderson. “The current access processes are cumbersome, inhibitive and do not take in the requirements of the industry they are meant to serve. “The lack of information retention, process cost gouging and slow response speeds means that the HV transport industry cannot service its client base and meet their requirements legally.” Anderson said the current access regime is under review by DoT and the VTA has been constantly providing advice and information to assist in the development of new access plans and processes.
The NHVR, which approves PBS vehicle blueprints and final designs, declined the opportunity to comment for this story, but a spokesperson for DoT told us by way of an emailed statement that demands on its road network have changed significantly in recent years due to a construction boom and increases in agricultural production. “We understand the issues faced by industry and have been improving access to get goods where they need to go.” “We’re working to further streamline heavy vehicle access in Victoria and allow safer and more environmentally-friendly vehicles on the network, while also balancing the needs of industry and the community.”
The DoT said up to a third of the freight and heavy haulage combinations that require a permit also require a structural assessment, al-
though it dodged our direct question about why it cost operators so much. To reduce the number of structural assessments, the department
added that it continues to expand the number of pre-approved and gazetted maps published on the VicRoads website.
There were 11,634 PBS combinations on our roads at the close of 2020. The number increased by 1623 over the course of the year.
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6 NEWS
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Tickets now on sale for 2021 Brisbane Truck Show
ALL the required boxes have been checked for the Brisbane Truck Show – it’s go time. That’s the message as we went to print with this issue from organisers Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia with tickets officially now on sale for the industry’s biggest showcase from May 13-16. Despite the obvious Covid-19 concerns – and the no-show of four big-name acts – 300 exhibitors, including Big Rigs, have confirmed bookings across all three levels of the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. HVIA Chief Executive Todd Hacking said the sense of anticipation is palpable. “This is such an important occasion for the industry to get together,” Hacking said. “It is a reward for the incredible job that has been done keeping Australia moving over the last eighteen months through drought, bushfires and the pandemic. “I know I speak for all of our exhibitors when I say that we cannot wait to welcome trucking operators to Brisbane.”
Hacking said the exhibitors do an extraordinary job of raising the bar every show, and he doesn’t think this year will be any different. “There will be a fantastic array of product on display, from the very latest trucks and innovative trailer designs, to components, equipment and ground-breaking technology solutions.” Tickets have been held at 2019 rates with a full adult day ticket still just $22, and accompanied kids under 18 free. Fully registered tickets will go into the running for the Ultimate VIP Experience Package thanks to the Morris Finance with one lucky attendee set to enjoy corporate treatment at Bathurst and the AFL, hot laps and numerous other prizes valued at over $45,000. All tickets also give access to the nearby Civil Construction Field Days heavy equipment and machinery show. A free shuttle service will also be available, running between the two events. “When the doors open and visitors start streaming through – there is really no
Media and other VIPs get a first look at the latest offerings from MAN and Western Star before the main doors opened in 2019.
better sight and we expect 2021 to be bigger than ever,” Hacking said. “But what I really enjoy is seeing old mates catching up, sharing knowledge, fellowship and banter and, I think this year we all need that more than ever before.”
Organisers add that there will be plenty of signage throughout the venue and stand designs will take into account the need to keep crowds flowing freely. To satisfy the Queensland Department of Health, the space per person throughout
the venue is 2sqm per person. Even when the show is packed that isn’t a problem, according to venue bosses. “Any other advice from Government will be built into the plans as the event approaches,” said a spokesperson.
Every aspect of the show and external activations is supported by a detailed Covid safe plan. Contact tracing is done at the convention centre by ensuring tickets are registered to the person using them, scanning in and back out again on departure.
Boost for popular Jobs Hub ahead of industry showcase
The Jobs Hub was a popular addition to the 2019 event.
HEAVY Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) Chief Executive Todd Hacking said Morrison government’s $1.2 billion boost to the wage subsidy program for apprentices and trainees is welcome news for the heavy vehicle industry. “We know that our industry is experiencing a faster than predicted recovery; we are aware that an apprenticeship is a great way to commence a career in the heavy vehicle industry,” Hacking said, adding that the HVIA is keen to ensure these incentive schemes target the right areas as the JobKeeper scheme winds down. “Just last week at our Queensland State Committee meeting, an HVIA member lamented the difficulty in at-
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tracting good, young apprentices. “This is commentary that HVIA regularly hears from members in other forums and, in part, why we are investing in the Jobs Hub during the Brisbane Truck Show.” The Jobs Hub activation at the South Bank Piazza will showcase career opportunities to the broader community from May 13-16. “The fact that 100,000 apprenticeships were fully subscribed, shows that the future leaders of the industry are keen to take up a trade,” Hacking added. The Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements Program will now become demand driven and expand-
ed for a full 12 months for new apprentices and trainees signed up prior to September 30, 2021. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said training and skills were at the core of the government’s response to the economic challenges faced by the Covid-19 recession. “Creating jobs, generating economic opportunities and boosting the skills of workers right across Australia are at the heart of our National Economic Recovery Plan, as we build back from the Covid-19 recession,” Morrison said. “Last week’s National Accounts showed the comeback of the Australian economy is underway, however many businesses still need support
and it’s important our apprentices and trainees get opportunities to boost their skills and stay employed.” Hacking added that the heavy vehicle industry offers diverse and rewarding career paths. “This will give a start to thousands of boilermakers, welders and diesel mechanics,” he said. “Our industry is full of wonderful examples of how often those young people progress into roles as international executives. “The Australian community has really come to appreciate how important our industry is to Australia’s resilience, and there has never been a better time to get on board.”
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
New decoupling facility tangled in controversy
BY JAMES GRAHAM
QUEENSLAND state transport bosses are holding their ground against a torrid stream of driver criticism of the soonto-open Gatton decoupling facility. When we announced its upcoming launch online, Big Rigs readers were scathing in their assessment of the new heavy vehicle area, which boasts 30 parking bays and unlimited
parking times for trailers. One reader Leanne Dyer, wife of a long-time truckie and well-known administrator for several industry support groups on Facebook, told us she’d even written to authorities alerting them to the inherent dangers presented by the construction of a concrete traffic island at the entrance. Just prior to deadline she showed us a copy of the response from Queensland Transport Min-
ister Mark Bailey. “Roundabouts, offramps and all associated roads were altered at the end of 2020 to accommodate B-triples and type 1’s up to 36.5 metres, he tweeted. “The concrete traffic island will not impede their access.” Dyer and her husband remain adamant that isn’t the case. “There is no way a AB triple road train will have enough room to swing in the entrance
Leanne Dyer has written to authorities alerting them to the inherent dangers presented by the construction of the concrete traffic island at the entrance, as pictured above.
with the traffic island as it is. When did you last sit in, or drive as triple road train?” she Tweeted back. The Dyers reiterated the same message to Big Rigs that there is also not enough room in the allotted area for 30 trucks, further underlying what they believe to be a clear lack of consultation. “It just looks like there has been on input from people who know what needs to happen,” she told us. “Trucks will have to run over the traffic island and it’s going to cause damage. If they wake up to themselves, they’re going to have to demolish the thing. “A painted one would be more appropriate. That way trucks aren’t mounting a concrete traffic island and causing damage to fuel tanks.” Dyer said that when you factor in the smaller than necessary roundabout leading into the facility, it’s a “stuffup waiting to happen”. The Queensland Trucking Association has similar concerns. A Transport and Main Roads (TMR) spokesperson told Big Rigs that there was
more than enough industry consultation. The spokesperson said the TMR engaged with multiple heavy vehicle operators before works started. “All roads, roundabouts and off-ramps have been upgraded to accommodate heavy vehicles both entering and exiting the facility,” said the spokesperson. “The facility is designed to accommodate B-triple and Type 1 road trains (up to 36.5 metres) and the concrete traffic island will not impede their access. “The island was installed during the roadworks component of the project to encourage the separation of the two lanes and reduce the risk of crashes. “We have not received any direct complaints from heavy vehicle operators about the traffic island.” They have, however, copped both barrels from Big Rigs readers. “Once again the Queensland Government has failed the transport industry,” writes Darren Rackley on our Facebook page.
NEWS 7
This tweet from state transport minister Mark Bailey was the only response Leanne Dyer got to her complaints.
“Here’s a tip boys and girls of the bureaucracy, get out of your office and talk to some operators about what is required in this infrastructure so maybe you might have a chance of getting it right. “Or on your next taxpayer funded junket do a trip to Cloncurry and have a chat to the council about providing facilities to transport, or if you really want to throw some money around jump on a plane over to WA and see how they actually work with the industry.”
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8 OPINION
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Truckies left out again
EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM
IF there weren’t so many safety ramifications it would be almost comical. Eager to drill down into where exactly the $400 million ‘blitz’ on NSW roads was going, we approached the federal source for more details. Oh, you’ll have to ask the state, they said, even though Canberra is stumping up the lion’s share: $300m vs. $108m. But yes, you guessed it, when we approached the state agency Transport for NSW, we were told that the details of what was being spent was the fed’s call. Now, don’t forget this is all being touted as an urgent ‘use-it-or-lose-it’ spend under the federal government’s Road Safety Program. Yet, NSW and Canberra appear to be lacking any sense of urgency around fixing much of anything from where we sit. TfNSW was, however, quick to account for a $2.3 million ‘safety’ spend the next day – flash new upgrades to inspection bays on the Newell Highway.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Peak bodies out of touch with drivers I recently loaded in Parkes and travelled north on the Newell Highway, a road I had not travelled for some time. As normal, I was intending to shower, eat and sleep at the roadhouses along the way. What a surprise! Knowing that the roadhouse in Dubbo was only card machine service and Coonabarabran was demobilised, a quick break in Gilgandra was necessary. Then on to Narrabri intending to shower, eat and sleep at the Shell roadhouse only to find that it was closed and fenced off so a motel stay was necessary so that facilities were available which meant we had to leave the truck parked in the street. Leaving early next morning, we went up to the BP at Bellata for breakfast only to
find the café there was also closed. So, on to the new Puma at Moree by which time I was in dire need of coffee and breakfast. Next stop had to be the café at Pampas as the BP Roadhouse at Captains Mountain was also closed and fenced off. I had picked up the Feb 5 issue of Big Rigs along the way and noted that the Caltex Roadhouse in Longreach had also closed. What was interesting was the comment from the SUITS (not my term for them) that motorists could visit the company’s other store “to access all grades of fuel and diesel products”. I am yet to meet any driver, myself included, who can live and manage their fatigue on fuel and diesel products.
The Longreach closure leaves truckies with nowhere to get a late hot meal within almost 400km.
When I was first driving semis about 50 years ago (single drive with 36 ft trailer) the first stop when leaving Sydney for Perth was at Cara-
gabal in the early hours. An old English couple would wake us up, we could use the facilities in the tin shed where they would serve
probably the best bacon, eggs & bubble & squeak I have ever eaten. Then on to Balranald where the pub (as many did
back then) provided showers and a good meal and refreshments. I can only think that we are having a lend of ourselves if we think things are improving for the driver. We bleat that we cannot attract young drivers and keep them in an industry that treats them like robots. Government bodies, both state and commonwealth, unions, associations, etc, and the companies controlling the movement of freight seem to have the ‘SUITS’ mentality to the problem. My suggestion to them is to listen to a song sung by Slim Dusty called To Whom It May Concern and to try to understand what it all means. J. Brown Queensland
What’s happened to the reliable truck stop? IT seems the fuel companies and roadhouse operators have abandoned Australian truckies. Reports are coming from all over Australia about the demise of reliable truck stops. For example, meals stop at 8.30pm, showers could cost eight dollars, and even the service is disappointing. Australia depends heavi-
ly on the transport industry. Truckies operate the trucks to deliver goods and equipment all over the country, at all times of the day and night. Truckies have come to depend on the truck stop. At the end of the day the drivers look for a place they can consider their second home. They fuel up the truck, want to enjoy a shower
in clean amenities, and enjoy a home-style meal. No more. The truck-stop traditions have all but abandoned the truck drivers. Many are addressing this situation by having food precooked and packed, to be heated up later somewhere along the road, in a comfortable parking bay. The truckies have strict
schedules set by the companies, strict work hours set by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, and more regulations than any other industry. The health of the truckies is also a priority. Greasy, dry food in the food warmer is not healthy. The fuel companies are now dictating how the roadhouse should be run. The lo-
cal staff have no choice, and the companies are not taking any information into account when setting the rules. Service comes with money. Give good service, good meals and clean amenities, and they will come. Speaking to the operators of the Penong Caltex, on the Eyre Highway, there is only frustration, not being able
to operate the roadhouse as required by the regular customers. Recently there have been more complaints on social media about formerly reliable truck stops degraded service, than compliments. Christine Thiel Oversize pilot Salisbury, SA
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10 NEWS
IN BRIEF New Hino dealer named Hino Australia has expanded its dealership network by appointing Southside Truck Centre in Lismore, NSW as a sales branch. “Following its success over the last six years as a parts and service Hino franchise, Southside Truck Centre was a logical addition to the 41 Hino sales dealerships across the country,” said Bill Gillespie, Vice President of Brand and Franchise Development for Hino Australia. “Southside Truck Centre has been part of the Australian trucking landscape for over 50 years, so they were the perfect choice to support and service our customers in the Northern Rivers region.” Engine tampering trouble A Sunshine Coast transport company has been issued with an Improvement Notice by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) after an investigation uncovered evidence of engine tampering. A joint investigation between NHVR and Queensland Police Service officers confirmed the emissions control system on one of the company’s trucks had been switched off, while the control system on a second vehicle had been ‘remapped’ to allow increased emissions. “The Improvement Notice compels the operator to have the remainder of its fleet checked by inspectors authorised to examine specific engine makes and models,” said NHVR Executive Director Statutory Compliance Ray Hassall. Truckie dismissed for holding phone The Fair Work Commission has supported the fair dismissal of a road train driver caught holding their phone while driving. The driver had worked for Linfox for six years as a fuel driver. The commission found the employer had a valid reason for terminating the employee, as he had wilfully violated an important safety obligation. The driver was interviewed about the event and shown in-cab footage. Initially, he admitted to looking at his phone while holding it, then denied he was looking at it, before eventually responding that he was selecting music to play through the truck’s bluetooth system. Free cuppas for truckies Truckies travelling through regional NSW are being encouraged to participate in a safety initiative aimed at reducing driver fatigue-related crashes across the state. Until May 31, a host of participating businesses are offering free coffees in the Free Cuppa for the Driver campaign. First developed by the NSW Local Government Road Safety Program in 2010, the scheme is administered by a group of passionate Road Safety Officers who engage with local cafés and other food and beverage providers. More than 23,000 cuppas have been given away to drivers since its inception.
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
New Volvo range in production from July
The FH cab remains the same, but the FM cab from the floor pan up is basically an FH.
BY DAVID MEREDITH ALMOST to the day last year I got a call from Volvo’s then marketing hot shot, Phillippa Stewart. I was two days away from flying to Sweden for the global release of Volvo’s biggest model makeover. “Sorry David, but it’s off,” said Stewart. I was actually hoping for the call, as Sweden’s Covid strategy was about to fall off a cliff. That was the last hint of travel for 2020, until last week when Volvo hosted media at its Wacol HQ, introduced the new range and updated us on some future plans.
It’s worked out well though because new components have been added. Orders are now being taken and the new range will start rolling down the Australian production line in the week commencing July 12. Constant improvement to an already outstanding platform is energising the Volvo dealer network. New Volvo Australia vice-president Gary Bone also noted that Volvo will add electric versions of every Volvo model to series production during 2022, but added that diesel fuel still has a long-term future in Australia, given our range and load requirements. The group president Martin Merrick was more explicit:
“We are on a journey to building only fossil fuel free trucks by 2040. The internal combustion engine (ICE) still has a long way to go however, although perhaps we will see an ICE engine that also uses fossil free fuel.” The FM, FMX, FH and FH16 trucks have all been revamped with upgrades to the safety package and improvements to driver functions. The FH cab remains the same, but the FM cab from the floor pan up is basically an FH. The larger windscreen, slimmer A-pillars, slim-line mirrors and a lower door line delivers 10 per cent more visibility. There’s also a new passen-
The FM, FMX, FH and FH16 trucks have all been revamped with upgrades to the safety package and improvements to driver functions.
ger corner camera that activates when the left-hand indicator is used. Inside there’s an extra cubic metre of interior space – the day cab version has 40 per cent more storage as well, and you can now get a crew cab FM or FMX. There’s a new digital instrument cluster with a touch screen side display. A new traction control switch cluster tidies up handling the traction options and the I-Shift gear selector is reshaped. An optional adaptive auto high beam dip for the FH and FH16 LED headlights also pings motorcycles and cyclists according to Volvo, and the adaptive cruise control now
operates down to zero km/h. The Australian I-Save option adds GPS/topographical cruise control to the new D13K 500hp and 2800Nm turbo compound engine to for maximum fuel efficiency on variable terrain. It includes idle shut-down, a 2.83 final drive (to 70-tonnes GCM), variable displacement power steering pump and low rolling resistance tyres. Euro VI emissions technology is available as an option across the range. Each week we see new industry-wide electric power development. Clearly Volvo locally intends on keeping existing wheels turning in any setting.
Kenworth leads Family reaps rewards with heavy duty sales switch to UD 8x4 Quons race in special anniversary year IF the first two months of the year are any guide, there will be plenty to celebrate at PACCAR’s Bayswater plant throughout 2021. After its early 2020 sales race scare at the hands of Volvo, the perennial heavy duty sector leader is back in its all-too-familiar sector slot. Exactly the place you want to be when this month marks the 50th anniversary of the first all Australian-made Kenworth rolling off the Melbourne assembly line (see our anniversary coverage on pages 12-16). The latest sales figures for February from the Truck Industry Council shows Kenworth sold 163 units, a healthy 26 more than the same month last year, and 54 rigs ahead of Volvo and Isuzu who tied for second with 109 sales apiece. Mercedes was the biggest monthly force YoY in the
sector, leaping from 34 to 84 to edge out Scania for fourth place. Freightliner was perhaps the other notable mover, although in the other direction, sliding back from an impressive January tally to sell just 22 units. Overall, heavy duty figures were up with total sales of 805 ‘heavies’ for the month, compared with 777 in the same period last year. By the end of the month 4767 heavy commercial vehicles were sold in Australia, 476 more than February 2020, the last month before the impacts of Covid really hit home. That means the year-todate tally is only slightly behind the YTD sales for the all-time record set in 2018, proving the various stimulus packages and ready-finance on offer are having a huge impact.
FOR the first time Queensland-based sub-contractor Lazza’s Logistics has partnered with UD Trucks, making the switch to the brand with an investment in 10 new 8×4 Quons. Due to their expertise and experience in providing regional transport solutions to the agitator sector, operators such as Holcim and HY-TEC have partnered with the family-run operation for decades. Safety along with productivity are the cornerstones of Larry and Carla White’s business and at the handover both were blown away with how smooth the Quon is to drive and how easy it is to manoeuvre. “With our trucks hauling cements loads and making numerous drop offs between the Gold Coast and Brisbane we need safe, reliable and efficient vehicles,” said Larry. The Quon’s safety features include disc brakes, traffic eye breaking, lane departure warning system and electronic stability control to ensure the safety of the driver and other
Larry and Carla White are pleased they switched to UD.
road users. “Our priority is ensuring our drivers return safe to their families at the end of the day,” continued Carla. Driver comfort has been at the forefront of the cabin design with ESCOT-VI automated manual transmission enabling unparalleled operability. The new 8X4 Quon is tailor-made for the Australian market, offering a high-tensile steel chassis frame and low tare weight for increased payload delivering extra productivity. As well as safety, UD Trucks values environmental care, and the 8-litre Quon delivers a number of features which work together to max-
imise fuel savings, including ECO mode, adaptive cruise control, and ESCOT Roll. The Whites are also impressed with the improved service intervals, comprehensive staff training and support from the extensive Volvo Group network. Consequently, Lazza’s Logistics has covered the new trucks under the service agreement, receiving all their maintenance and servicing through the Volvo Group Australia dealer network. “UD and its people really make the extra effort to support our business, making UD the ultimate business partner for Lazza’s Logistics,” said Larry.
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12 COVER STORY
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
A match made in heaven
As Australian Native Landscapes (ANL) and Kenworth Australia celebrate their 50th anniversaries, three new T610SARs have been added into the mix, building on a partnership that has endured through the decades.
Muscat Trailers CEO, Troy Azzopardi, Jamie Morgan from Gilbert and Roach, and ANL Asset & Maintenance Manager Harley Soars.
BY DANIELLE GULLACI
“Trucks are key, they’ve always been an advertising tool as they represent our business, we are proud of our old school looking livery,” said ANL’s Asset & Maintenance Manager Harley, who joined the company in 2009, as soon as he finished school. He’s now
The new Kenworth T610SARs joined the ANL fleet earlier this year.
helping to drive the family business into the future. “We prefer Kenworths over the European trucks because I think in applications where we are going off-road, they are very sturdy, and they’re just proven. The drivers like the new cabs, we like the look
Add to this another six T409s purchased just before these and an extra two new T610SARs that are due to join the fleet in the middle of 2021, and it’s clear to see that ANL loves its Kenworths. “These trucks are all a reflection of what we like to use,” added Harley. ANL operates from 15 sites across NSW, running a mixture of on and off-road equipment. “What people may not know is the fact we have just as much off-road plant equipment as we do on-road fleet. We utilise all the equipment as tools for the business, which are used to produce and cart all our horticultural and agricultural products that we sell. Our large trucks consist of everything from B-doubles and truck and dogs, to Matilda Walking Floors which is a subsidiary of ANL. “Dad brought the first walking floors to Australia. We’ve been producing walking floor trailers since the 1970s,” said Harley. Along with the flashy new trucks, ANL has held onto a vintage gem too – the first Kenworth it ever purchased back in 1976. “It cost $61,000 at the time, which was a lot of money back then. We have it in our ‘museum’. We are currently in the process of rebuilding it this year for our anniversary,” revealed Harley. Over the past 50 years, ANL has grown from humble beginnings into a key player in its field. “ANL started off as a landscaping and supply business and we pioneered the decorative bark industry. ANL today is the largest recycler of organic waste in Australia.” With the first 50 years of growth, service and commitment to its industry already under its belt, the future is looking bright for ANL. Images: Inlights Photography.
FLASH back to 1971. The very first Australian made Kenworth, a K125CR, had just rolled off the production line. During that same year, Patrick Soars launched his landscape supplies business ANL, which has gone on to become a leading force in landscaping, building and gardening products and supplies across NSW. The fact that both brands are celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2021 isn’t the only link between ANL and Kenworth Australia. You see, for many years, Kenworths have been the go-to ‘big rig’ for ANL, which now boasts a fleet of over 200 trucks, including three brand-spanking new Kenworth T610SARs. They stand out in their gleaming green and gold livery, representing ANL’s fleet colours, as well as the fact that it’s a true-blue Australian
family owned and operated business, which is now in its second generation. After starting the business in 1971, Patrick’s wife Sharon Soars came into the business as co-director in 1976. Today they are joined by their sons Harley and Patrick Soars.
of them. It’s everything about them. And they’re made in Australia too,” Harley added. “We have a big range of trucks, from B-doubles down to small tippers and everything in-between. In the larger range, Kenworth is our preferred truck brand.” In the last 18 months alone, ANL has purchased various new Kenworths through truck dealership Gilbert and Roach, in Huntingwood, Sydney. Sales consultant for Kenworth and DAF, Jamie Morgan, has worked closely with the Soars family for several years. He started with Gilbert and Roach over 25 years ago as an apprentice mechanic and has worked his way through the ranks, moving into a sales role seven years ago. “ANL is an extremely professional company to work with. Now Harley has become my first port of call. He’s moved up through the business and is the future of the business,” Morgan said. The latest truck delivery – the three new Kenworth T610SARs, all fitted with Ultrashift AMP transmissions – were delivered mid January and have settled into the fleet very well. They are used to cart compost and agricultural products throughout NSW. They are all used with trailers by Muscat Trailers, which is ANL’s preferred trailer supplier. ANL has used its products for over 30 years. Prior to that ANL received its three newest T909s in April 2020. One of these is used as part of a PBS-approved quin dog, which Harley said was one of the first combinations of its kind, achieving a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of up to 68.5 tonne on PBS routes. The other two T909s are used with quad axle dogs.
Under PBS, this T909 quin dog can achieve a GVM of up to 68.5 tonne on PBS routes.
ANL’s latest T909s arrived in April 2020.
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14 FEATURE
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
The birth of Kenworth This month marks a significant milestone for Kenworth, with the iconic brand celebrating 50 years of manufacturing down under. Big Rigs takes a trip down memory lane.
With business booming, Kenworth expanded the plant to double its original size in 1978, which created 300 new jobs. Soon after, Kenworth received one of the biggest orders placed by a private company in Australia at the time, with a $3 million order for 31 prime movers placed by Finemores Transport.
The Legend 900 was unveiled in 2017, with only 257 of these limited edition models produced.
BY DANIELLE GULLACI
These are some of the fully built-up S925 models imported by Ed Cameron and George Blomfield.
The first all-Australian made Kenworth, a K125CR, rolled off the production line at the Bayswater Kenworth Factory in 1971.
THE year was 1971 when the first Australian made Kenworth hit the road, but the story of Kenworth down under started almost a decade earlier. Way back in 1962, two men named Ed Cameron and George Blomfield started the truck manufacturer’s Australian story, when they imported the first fully built Kenworths from the US. Ed Cameron passed away in 2016, at the age of 93. He was in the business of transporting fresh produce, initially throughout Melbourne, before expanding into Sydney. He joined his family’s business D & E Transport after serving in WWII. Born in Victoria in 1905, Blomfield passed away in 1995. He moved to Red Hill in 1932, where he began his career in transport. Post WWII, he too began transporting fruit interstate. In their search for a suitable truck with enough grunt and power to tackle their interstate routes, they were convinced there had to be a better alternative to the trucks that were currently available to them – and they found that in the form of a Kenworth. They travelled to the US for the first time in 1955 in search of a truck that could stand up to the tough Australian conditions. After numerous visits
The 1980s In 1980, the first Australian managing director took the reins of the business. His name was Andrew Wright. Kenworth was now a division of PACCAR Australia Pty Ltd. Following $35 million of investment in Australia, the Kenworth C500AR was launched in 1981. A true workhorse, this model was built tough for off-highway applications such as the logging and mining industry. The model had already proven its grit in the harsh landscapes of Arabia and Africa. PACCAR’s first state of the art parts warehouse and distribution centre soon followed, a 45,000 square foot space that opened in 1986. That was also the year that the K100E was launched. Then in 1987, the company’s biggest new truck launch to date came in the form of the revolutionary T600. Its sloping aerodynamic nose resulted in the nickname of ‘Anteater’. This truck looked very different to past models, which made it somewhat polarising, particularly among purists. Though once its impressive fuel figures were revealed, demand for this model soared. By 1988, Kenworth had celebrated the 10,000th Australian made truck. It was a T600 for Cleveland Freightliners. Another new model was also launched that year – the C500T. This replaced the C500AR.
to the US, phone calls and changes to Australia’s import rules, their hard work finally paid off. Seven fully assembled S-models arrived by ship into Sydney in October 1962, each one custom engineered. These Kenworths were the first to be fitted with Detroit Diesel engines. Four were for Cameron and three for Blomfield. In addition to running his transport business, Cameron went on to set up Australian Kenworth Truck Sales Pty Ltd, which imported and sold over 100 Kenworth prime movers, before PACCAR’s predecessor Pacific Car and Foundry acquired his business in the late 1960s and established Kenworth’s 56,000 square foot Australian plant at Bayswater in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs in 1970, which continues to produce trucks to this day. According to PACCAR, Cameron was instrumental in the brand’s decision to manufacture Kenworths in Australia. He continued to serve as a director at PACCAR until the 1970s.
Nose’ as it was affectionately known, was introduced soon after. Then in 1975, the brand achieved a significant milestone with the launch of the W900SAR. This was the first Kenworth fully designed in Australia, specifically for Australian conditions. With its striking angled bonnet and ability to utilise a high horsepower engine while still getting maximum payload, all within existing length limits, it proved to be an immediate hit. But its predecessor – the W900AR – had gained such a following that Kenworth decided to reintroduce it in 1977, after length limits were eased.
THROUGH THE DECADES The 1970s Nicknamed the ‘Grey Ghost’, the first Australian made Kenworth rolled off the production line in 1971. It was a K125CR cabover, built using locally manufactured parts where possible. The W900AR, or ‘Long
The Kenworth C500AR, built for off-highway applications like logging and mining, was launched in 1981.
The C510 was launched in the late 1990s and is still produced today.
FEATURE 15
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
in Australia
As well as a string of new model launches, the 1980s also brought about changes in design processes, with new computer technology being introduced from the end of 1980s and into the early 1990s. For example, CAD drawing replaced traditional drawing boards. The 1990s The early years of this decade were marred by recession, which affected many businesses – and the transport industry was not immune. Nevertheless, Kenworth was still able to continue on its growth trajectory.
The iconic T900 was introduced in 1991. It was modelled on the legendary W-model, combining a classic look and style with the ability to stand up to almost any application and conditions. Then 1993 was another important year for the manufacturer. Along with introducing the T480, Kenworth’s Bayswater plant became the first PACCAR plant to receive International Quality Standard ISO 9001 accreditation; and the first New Zealand dealership was appointed. By 1996, Kenworth had been producing trucks in Australia for 25 years. It cel-
Unveiled in 2004, the T404SAR paid homage to the much-loved W900SAR, which ceased production in 1987.
ebrated by adding another 10,000 square feet to its Bayswater plant and welcoming its 15,000th Kenworth, a T601. But it seems that wasn’t quite big enough. In 1998, the PACCAR Parts warehouse was expanded to 100,000-plus square feet. And more new models were added into the mix, with the C510, T604 and T904. The 2000s Boasting futuristic safety features such as a collision avoidance system, GPS and infrared night imaging sensors, the T604 ‘Technology Truck’ was previewed in 2000. The showcase vehicle aimed to demonstrate how smart technology could be utilised to address critical safety issues including driver fatigue. Much of the innovative technology used on this truck found its way into Kenworth production trucks over the preceding years. In 2004, the T404SAR was launched. It paid homage to the much-loved W900SAR, which ceased production in 1987. Flexible engineering al-
lowed for customisation to suit customer needs, with so many design options available. Kenworth’s largest model to be designed in Australia, the C540, was introduced in 2007. It was made especially for off-highway mining applications and utilises a 19 litre engine with a GCM of 350T, without any power-assisted trailers. To meet ADR 80/02 emission standards, the entire Kenworth range was redesigned ahead of the launch in 2008. Kenworth capped off the decade with delivery of its 40,000th truck, a T608, in 2009. The latest brake safety technology, Electronic Brake Safety Systems, was also released across the entire range.
The 2010s In 2010, Kenworth revealed its 2011 models ahead of their introduction the following year, meeting ADR 80/30 emissions standards across the entire range. Kenworth also introduced its iconic K200. By 2013, the manufacturer had produced its 50,000th
The hotly anticipated T610 was Kenworth’s largest single investment in product development in Australia.
Australian made truck. It was a K200 purchased by long-time customer Rodney’s Transport Service. In celebration of 90 years of Kenworth, the limited edition T909 Director Series was launched in 2014, combining the best of classic and contemporary. This was followed by the release of the Legend 950 in 2015, with only 75 of these produced – they sold out within a couple of days. The launch of the hotly anticipated T610 followed in 2016. This model was the result of over 100,000 Australian design hours and more than 10 million kilometres of testing. The iconic T610 represents Kenworth’s largest single investment in product development in Australia. It remains one of the most aerodynamic and fuel-efficient trucks to come off the Kenworth production line.
The second Legend iteration arrived on the scene in 2017, with the unveiling of the Legend 900 at the Brisbane Truck Show in 2017. Only 257 of these trucks were manufactured. In 2017, truck number 60,000 also hit the road, a T610SAR purchased by Wickham Freight Lines. Today Though the past 12 months or so have been challenging as the result of a global pandemic, Kenworth remains stronger than ever. The company is now working to increase its production capacity. This will include a $40 million expansion of the Bayswater facility, with upgrades due to be completed this year. With 50 years of Australian manufacturing already under its belt, the future is certainly looking bright for Kenworth.
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16 FEATURE
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
150 reasons to celebrate at SRV
From l-r: SRV account salesman Ben Sparrow, owner of SRV Errol Cosgrove and his wife Melanie Cosgrove, and Rob Brown from Brown & Hurley.
BY DANIELLE GULLACI SRV Road Freight Services takes great pride its beautifully presented Kenworth fleet – so when it came time to put the order in for its 150th Kenworth, it’s no surprise that the business decided to go all out. The new beast is an ISX powered 2.8m big cab Kenworth K200 that was delivered on December 1, 2020. Named ‘BlackListed’, it’s not your standard run of the mill truck, with various aesthetic modifications, including chrome and polished accessories. “I allowed my wife to se-
lect the colour options both inside and out and I added the typical SRV shiny bits,” said Errol Cosgrove, who started SRV in 1997. Like most of the Kenworths in the SRV fleet, BlackListed continues to turn heads while out on the highways, doing linehaul work across the east coast. The trailers pulled behind it are emblazoned with two other milestone trucks – SRV’s 100th Kenworth, a Legend T900 delivered in 2017; and the 50th Kenworth, a K200 delivered in 2012. SRV stands for safety, reliability and value, and is based
Named BlackListed, the 150th truck is an ISX powered 2.8m big cab Kenworth K200.
in Ormeau, Queensland. “I started SRV after many years of driving for myself. I had driven for years and de-
The artwork featured on the trailers celebrates other SRV milestone Kenworth trucks.
cided that I would try and make a business out of doing something that I loved. The fleet and company as a whole have steadily grown over the past 24 years with thanks to many key people who have all contributed to the SRV you see today,” said Cosgrove. “Our business, like others in the industry, has not been immune to the ever-changing conditions which are continually imposed upon us. We have had to adapt like everyone else and embrace the changes as best we can so that we can expand our offering.” Cosgrove added that all of the prime movers in the SRV
fleet are Cummins/Kenworth combinations. Models include the K104B, K200, T409SAR, T610, T610SAR, T904, T909, T900 and T950. Being able to purchase the company’s 150th Kenworth truck was a special milestone for Cosgrove and a symbol of just how far SRV has come. “It has been a long time coming and there have been some years where it was really hard to gauge just what was around the corner, especially last year, so reaching this milestone at the end of 2020 allowed us all to have a moment of reflection, not only of the past 24 years of busi-
ness and our achievements, but also of everything that happened during the year.” Now, who gets to sit behind the wheel of the new BlackListed beast? “The decision was made to offer the seat to a very worthy driver who has been with us for a number of years,” Cosgrove said. “He loves the truck and tells me that his wife, who is usually not fond of trucks, has a particular soft spot for this one too.” Along with BlackListed, another two Kenworths joined the fleet before the year’s end, with 10 more on order and due for delivery in coming months.
PACCAR announces its Dealer of the Year winners PACCAR Australia has named the winners of its 2020 Dealer of the Year Awards. Inland Kenworth DAF Wagga Wagga has tak-
en out the Kenworth Dealer of the Year title; while Brown and Hurley Kenworth DAF Darra has been named the 2020 DAF Dealer of the Year.
Cliff Swane, Dealer Principal for Inland Kenworth DAF Wagga Wagga and Brenton McKay, Branch Manager for Inland Kenworth DAF Wagga Wagga.
This is the fifth time Brown and Hurley in Darra has received the award and the second time Inland Kenworth has won the accolade.
The Dealer of the Year awards acknowledge the dealer’s performance across all areas of the business including truck sales, parts sales,
Matthew Innes, Dealer Principal for Brown and Hurley Kenworth DAF Darra.
service, finance and customer support. The Brown and Hurley Group is a wholly family owned Australian company and is celebrating its 75th year in 2021. The group employs over 400 people across nine branches in Queensland and northern NSW. “In a year that was like no other, the dealership continued to exceed their targets across the entire business and offer outstanding service and support to their DAF customers,” said Brad May, Director Sales and Marketing for PACCAR Australia. Matt Innes, Dealer Principal of Brown and Hurley Kenworth DAF Darra is extremely proud of his team for winning the award. “It was a year that presented us with many challenges and one that won’t be forgotten. To cap off the year with this award is a great result for the whole dealership. It is an honour to have the trophy back on display at the dealership, and just reward for the team who
pulled together to make it happen,” he said. For Inland Kenworth DAF Wagga Wagga, it’s not only the second time it’s taken out the Kenworth Dealer of the Year award, but it was also the dealer’s second award of the evening. It also received the Cummins Dealer of the Year title for outstanding sales, service and support. “Inland Kenworth DAF Wagga Wagga are most deserving of this award and their commitment to customer excellence is exemplary,” said May. “In every facet of the business, the company has provided the market with the highest standards of professionalism, customer service and support, the true hallmark of a leading PACCAR dealer.” Inland Kenworth DAF Wagga Wagga’s Dealer Principal, Cliff Swane accepted the award. “Winning such a prestigious award is a real testament to the committed and hardworking team at Wagga Wagga,” he said.
uniquely
AUSTRALIAN MADE FOR 50 YEARS AUSTRALIAN MADE. WORLD’S BEST. | KENWORTH.COM.AU
18 FEATURE
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Dubbo truckie restores special rig to former glory
Reunited after 40 years apart, a proud Larry Briggs hits the show circuit with his cherished 1968 International.
The Briggs International in its first phase hauling livestock in 1975.
BY DAVID VILE “IT took a lot of work, but you have to do these things properly” said Larry Briggs with the proof of all his efforts there for all to see in his immaculate 1968 International C-1800, which was shining in the sunshine at the Lockhart Truck Show in early March. The Inter has been a major part of Briggs’ involvement in road transport, albeit with a gap of about 40 years, with the truck initially purchased to work in the family livestock business at Coonamble, with truck and driver reunited in 2017 when it received a full restoration. “We bought it over the phone, sight unseen in 1970 with 40,000 miles on the clock, and I drove it from 1970 to 1977 with three decks of sheep or two decks of cattle virtually non-stop and put 600,000 miles on it,” Briggs explained. “It came back to me as a total bloody wreck 40 years later and three years later it is how you see it today.”
The International was initially owned by Marks Wool Buyers in Gilgandra, hauling wool to Melbourne and backloading tractors and machinery back to the local International Harvester agent, before ending up at a dealer’s yard in St Marys. Briggs was happy to get rid of a troublesome Ford to upgrade to the International. “We traded a D850 Ford in on it, a truck that should never have been built. It had done 90,000 miles and about 70,000 on the end of a tow chain! We built her up, took the 160 Cummins out and put a 180 in and it had a pusher axle on it, we beefed it up to do the job.” And do the job the International did, with a lot of work on livestock to Brisbane and Sydney as well as carting into the local markets at Dubbo and Coonamble. “It had a 36-footer on the back, and it would pull well wherever you pointed it, I had 46 big Hereford steers on one night going up Scenic Mountain on the way into Sydney and she didn’t miss a beat.
The International was in a sorry state prior to being restored.
Larry Briggs stands proudly with his restored International.
“I would also do three a week to Brisbane, go Sunday and get back Tuesday and go again, do a load to Dubbo then cart into the Coonamble fat markets and then head off to Brisbane again - and I loved every minute of it.” With the Briggs family taking on a Shell fuel agency the
family kept their other truck, a Ford 8000 whilst the International was moved on. A variety of Dodges, International ACCO’s and a Ford LNT 9000 all worked on fuel haulage as the fuel work increased. “We ended up with depots in Coonamble, Walgett and
Collarenebri, we covered a lot of territory as it was quite a big area,” he said. With the years passing the International found a new home around Griffith hauling rice and general freight with the truck having a pretty hard life before once again coming back into Briggs’s possession where the rebuild began in earnest. “We hooked in for a solid two and a half years, John Merino was with Royan’s in Dubbo, he was a big help preparing the cab and panels for me. It cost me a few dollars along the way, but I wanted everything 110 per cent on it.” Briggs sourced a donor truck for parts including a replacement Cummins motor, with the old one having seized up. The paintwork was also overhauled, with Briggs doing some research at truck shows for a brighter red hue than the original International factory red colour, repainting the cab and panels in ‘Ford Monza’ red before finishing it off with blue trims and scrollwork on the doors and panels.
“I’m pleased I took the time to get this paint and the red really stands out,” he said. Having found a 36-foot trailer on Facebook virtually down the road from his Dubbo home at Binnaway, Briggs also overhauled it to hook onto the back of the International to smooth the ride out and has plans to swap the bogie rear end for a 9ft-1in spread setup to replicate the original outfit. “I also have a pusher axle to go back in, I have got it all ready to bolt back in, it will just be a matter of changing the mudguards a bit, that is all I have left to do, apart from hooking up the airhorns,” he said. Briggs was making his first trip down to Lockhart from his Dubbo home, and since hitting the road once again the International has been on display at shows at Narromine, Bathurst and Orange, and despite its age still hums along the highway fairly well, with the trailer helping smooth the ride out. “My wife won’t go with me bobtail,” he said with a smile. “It will go to 105 but I usually run it at 90-95, with the Eaton 10-speed it’s just a beautiful truck to drive.” Having had such a long association with the truck it is clear that getting the old International back to as-new condition has been a labour of love for Briggs, with the truck sharing space at the shed at home with the Ford 8000 which has stayed in the family all along and a 1919 Model T Ford. But it is the Inter that holds many memories for Briggs and he should be proud of his handiwork. “Over the years it was a truck I had never forgotten. She has got a big heart and used to mix it with the big trucks going to Brisbane - I would happily hop in and go anywhere in it again now.”
The C-Line and trailer have been beautifully overhauled and finished off.
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20 READER RIGS
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Justin Wills snapped this pic in front of the recently completed Picola silo art in Victoria.
Michael Hamilton shared this bird’s eye view, taken in northern NSW during cereal grain harvest.
Share your truck pics THE trucking game is as diverse as the terrain on which our truckies travel. If there’s one thing we know many of you love, it’s a good looking rig – and sometimes life on the open road brings some golden photo opportunities. The Big Rigs #PicOfTheDay competition is a chance
to share your best snaps through our Facebook page (@BigRigs). We’ll choose a weekly winning shot to feature as our Facebook cover photo and a selection of the best pics will be featured in the next edition of Big Rigs Newspaper. So get snapping and keep those great pics coming!
Kev Cameron got this great photo of his 2003 Western Star by the lake at Mulwala, NSW.
Seven Kenworths all lined up – thanks for sharing Scott Cameron.
Marc Tongue shared a great shot of this 2019 Kenworth T909, taken on his first job back after the Christmas break.
Drew Nobby Smith’s photo, taken at Port Kembla beach, shows the first and only time these two trucks have been in the same place at the same time.
Kyle Nicholas-Benney transports a load of hay through Mt Gambier, SA.
This BAB quad, pulled by a 700hp Volvo, was getting ready to leave Roma, bound for Darwin. Thanks for sharing Justin Sellens.
READER RIGS 21
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Darryl Droober Chant and this VE Group rig are up north, going into the mines.
Rick Phillips snapped this beauty, a 1998 Kenworth T950 he drives for JNJ Haulage and Sons, at Port Melbourne.
Luke Layton shared this shot of three Wynnum Haulage rigs at Middlemount, Queensland, on their way north to Moranbah.
This Frankling Truck & Silo rig was hard at work during harvest. Thanks for sharing Andrew Barry.
Tony Meyers shared this shot of the Kenworth Big Cab he drives for Menz Freight. Here, it’s pictured at the Wagga Wagga Base Hospital.
After hours of washing and polishing in the early hours of Sunday morning, Mathew Moreland’s Kenworth T610 was looking immmaculate.
Terry Woods and this Kenworth deliver a load of straw.
Robbie Bell got this pic while on the job at the Carmichael Rail Project.
This Foley Contracting Kenworth was waiting to unload at Southport, Queensland. Thanks for sharing Justin Berrett.
This shot of a Waimea Contract Carriers Kenworth K108 was taken in Nelson, NZ, by Lee Anthony.
22 AD FEATURE WORKSHOP SERVICES & REPAIRS
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
The trusted axle specialists
When the popularity of Japanese and other imported heavy vehicles were on the rise, there was a need for correcting camber and castor adjustments on heavy vehicles – and with that, All Type Axle Corrections was born.
Tyres are an expensive part of truck and trailer maintenance costs, so a poor wheel alignment can cost you money.
ALL Type Axle Corrections was started in 2002 by Brady Magnussen and Steve Eadie. Between the two of them they have over 40 years of experience in the Automotive Industry. As imported vehicles are not designed with our cambered roads in mind, they require the axle eye beam to be adjusted. Failure to correct the axle can cause excessive tyre wear and a ‘pull left’ condition. As tyres are an expensive part of truck and trailer maintenance costs, a poor wheel alignment can cost you money. By ensuring the wheel alignment is within specification, you can significantly increase the life of your tyres, minimise downtime and reduce costs. Brady and Steve invested in a 150 tonne press and sought out the leading expert in truck alignment at the time. After an intensive
training program on settings and correct operation of the press, they were on their way. The workshop is set up to receive whole vehicles or bare axles for correction with trained heavy vehicle technicians onsite to remove and refit the axles. They also have an axle eye re-sleeving facility with their imported American line boring machinery. They can crack test all your steering components including steering arms, stubs and axle eyes. All axle eyes are crack tested before re-sleeving the axle eye with an aircraft quality alloy stainless steel sleeve with a wall thickness of 1.75mm. The sleeve is fitted with a 2000th of an inch interference fit. All Type Axle Corrections can straighten front and rear differential housing assemblies on your four wheel drive too.
150 Tonne Press Crack Testing King Pin Axle Eye Resleeving
All Type Axle Corrections works closely with the team at Eadie’s Mechanical and as such can perform an almost one stop service. Eadie’s Mechanical’s technicians are all dual qualified and the workshop is equipped for wheel alignments, servicing and repairs. With two dedicated pits for heavy vehicles and a wash-bay, they can handle all types of vehicles, big or small. In the 1990s, Steve trained with Bruce J Reilly and Truck Align, a leader in wheel alignment technology at the time. He has been honing his skills and teaching his team ever since. As a result, Eadie’s Mechanical now specialises in wheel alignment and has all the gear to perform alignments on rigid trucks, buses and prime movers, and they can even align your trailers too.
Brady Magnussen and Steve Eadie launched All Type Axle Corrections in 2002.
AS TYRES ARE AN EXPENSIVE PART OF TRUCK AND TRAILER MAINTENANCE COSTS, A POOR WHEEL ALIGNMENT CAN COST YOU MONEY. BY ENSURING THE WHEEL ALIGNMENT IS WITHIN SPECIFICATION, YOU CAN SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASE THE LIFE OF YOUR TYRES, MINIMISE DOWNTIME AND REDUCE COSTS.
All axle eyes are crack tested before re-sleeving the axle eye with an aircraft quality alloy stainless steel sleeve.
If the camber or castor adjustments are too far out to correct on the vehicle, Eadie’s Mechanical can remove the axle for All Type Axle Correction to perform the correction. All Type Axle Corrections and Eadie’s Mechanical work hand in hand and
generally achieve a same day turn around. Eadie’s Mechanical prides itself on offering practical, cost effective solutions to cater to the needs of its customers. It uses quality parts from reputable suppliers and understands that genuine parts
All Commercial Vehicles All Makes and Models Insurance & Private Work Steer Axles
PH 07 5464 3413 TRUCK BUS 4WD TRAILERS 37 Southern Amberley Rd, AMBERLEY • www.eadiesmechanical.com.au
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Ph. 5464 3413
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are not always a feasible option. Eadie’s Mechanical uses quality Australian made Penrite Oils and has a long-standing relationship with the manufacturer. But if you prefer a different brand of oil, most brands are available, or you can supply your own. This year marks Eadie’s Mechanical’s 40th anniversary, having started with Doug Eadie before being passed on to his son Steve. The business has grown from strength to strength and built a reputation on practical knowledge, quality workmanship and cost effectiveness. All Type Axle Corrections and Eadie’s Mechanical are located just off the Cunningham Highway, approximately 25 minutes from Rocklea, with a large yard to facilitate truck access, around 700 metres from the RAAF Base Amberley.
AD FEATURE WORKSHOP SERVICES & REPAIRS 23
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Is it time for you to sell your transport business?
Benchmark Business Sales offers expert advice on selling your transport business.
MANY business owners wait until it’s too late to sell their business. But what is it that stops business owners from selling at the right time? Is it laziness? Are they scared? Is it greed? Perhaps it’s the thought of not knowing when they’ve actually had enough or done enough. If you’ve considered selling your business but are putting it off or procrastinating, here are some signs that you may be ready to sell now:
Some business owners panic and rush into selling without planning and preparation. If you think that it’s time to
start thinking about selling your business, there are three initial steps that you should take. Firstly, have the current business value appraised by an experienced specialist. Secondly, consider the options with advisors who have no vested interest in your decision. And finally, talk to a specialist business broker and find out what the market is like. A renowned truck repair franchise from regional Victoria has done exactly that. The owners of the business have decided that now the time is right to sell their successful business. Automotive businesses like this truck repair business represent a large part of
TRUCK REPAIR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
VI
CT
O
RI
A
If you think it’s time to sell your business, there are three initial steps you should take.
• The business is declining instead of growing • Not knowing what to do next • Not enjoying business ownership • Feeling stressed
• Not trusting others • Scared of making changes • Not wanting to commit to new ideas or adopt new technologies • Not enough cash in your own accounts • Scared of taking a risk • Feeling that employees are unreliable • Seeing clients and customers as a problem, rather than being valued • Having trouble managing time • Finding excuses to avoid confronting issues or people
the Australian small business community, producing many millions of dollars of income and profits for business owners and stakeholders around the country. The purchaser of this heavy vehicle wheel alignment business will be joining Australia’s market leaders, as this business is regarded as being the most innovative in the industry. It has shown strong, consistent growth in the five years since it was established. With no competition within 150 kilometres, this business provides general mechanical repairs and services and specialises in heavy vehicle wheel alignment and suspension repairs – providing owners of big rigs with driver comfort and safety. The business uses ground-breaking technology, has a purpose-built 580m² workshop, is on track for $1.5 million in revenue this year, has in excess of $250,000 net profit to owner/operator, is averaging 20 per cent annual growth and it’s the first time it has been offered for sale. If you would like further information on this fabulous business opportunity, please contact business brokers Bruce Rylance on 0418 396 910 or Karl Barban on 0406 990 631. Barban has had a successful career in the transport industry that spans nearly 20 years. During that time he has also owned and operated his family business. As part of his service offering, he has supported large scale relocations and the setup of manufacturing and distribution companies, providing him with invaluable experience in the industry. With his extensive network and knowledge, he has what it takes to connect the right buyers and the right sellers. For more information about selling your own transport business, contact Benchmark Business Sales on 1300 366 521 or email benchmarkbusiness.com.au.
Business For Sale With no competition within 150 kilometres, this business provides general mechanical repairs and services and is specialises in heavy vehicle wheel alignment and suspension repairs. It’s the most recognisable brand in the sector. After all, it’s been around for thirty years and it must be one of the best franchise arrangements in the country. A straight-forward 7% franchise fee. No marketing contributions or any other fees. Wrapped up in a 10 + 10-year agreement. • • • • • • •
Utilises ground-breaking technology Purpose-built workshop of 580 m² On track for $1.5 million in revenue this year In excess of $250,000 net profit to owner/operator Averaging 20% annual growth, and First time offered for sale. The franchisor has designed and developed a large range of specialty products to rectify problems with truck steering and suspension specifically to suit Australian conditions and there’s a huge opportunity to expand the sale of spare parts + accessoires.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON THIS OPPORTUNITY, PLEASE CONTACT: BRUCE RYLANCE
KARL BARBAN
Mob: Email:
Mob: Email:
0418 396 910 | 1300 366 521 bruce.r@benchmarkbusiness.com.au
0406 990 631 | 1300 366 521 karl@benchmarkbusiness.com.au
24 AD FEATURE WORKSHOP SERVICES & REPAIRS
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Wales assembles titanic repairs fleet in record time
THE word whirlwind should be inked on Darren Wales’ broad shoulders. Since he joined his Wales Truck Repair & Wales Bus Repair business to the AMA Group, Wales has acquired a further nine major heavy motor repair facilities in less than two years. For anyone else it would be a juggling act, but for Wales that’s business as usual. “Myself and the AMA team are laser-focused on providing our clients, both transport operators and Insurers alike, with exceptional service and competitive pricing structures. His latest addition to AMA’s Heavy Motor Division is Newcastle’s National Truck Repairs and National Central. Wales has quickly assembled a ‘titanic’ fleet across the country including Parins Truck Repairs (Perth), All Transport Smash (SA), Western Truck Repairs (Vic), Recar Truck Repairs (Brisbane, Townsville, Clayton), Wales Truck Repairs (NSW) and Wales Bus Repairs (NSW). “I’m proud of our team,” said Wales. “We provide a ser-
Since he joined his own business to the AMA Group, Darren Wales has acquired a further nine major heavy motor repair facilities in less than two years.
vice for heavy motor Australia-wide, a ‘one-stop-shop’ for truck, bus & coach repairs. “The response from the
industry at large has been overwhelming. Our national clients have relished the opportunity to finally have a
dedicated, truly national repair network of the highest calibre. “Our insurance company
partners have been extremely positive and supportive. They see the benefits in dealing with an ASX-listed public company, with the transparency, economies of scale and regulatory governance that it provides. “And we have a great relationship with our OEMs. Streamlined parts purchasing on a national basis and the ability to work with the OEMs in gaining valuable repair processes and techniques is a must. “Like other great businesses relationships can make or break a company. Two-way communication, understanding and problem-solving ultimately determines the quality of a partnership, and that’s a priority in any engagement with our customers, and potential customers.” However, it’s not all plain sailing in the heavy motor repair industry. ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) has thrown a curve ball in truck and bus technology. The equipment, training and investment to repair and re-calibrate vehicles after an accident requires an enor-
mous investment to fix modern heavy vehicles. “We’re in a new world and unless you can invest in the technology to be able to repair an ADAS vehicle you will be at the back of the race,” Wales said. “AMA is at the forefront in providing this investment in order to return vehicles to original manufacturer’s specifications, something which independent operators may find very difficult.” While Wales loves the cut and thrust of competition (and winning), the people he works with is his number one focus. “We have a great team around us with a passion for the heavy motor industry and repair industry. I can’t speak highly enough of the dedication and commitment that our team have shown, not only in our business, but across the AMA support team. “I have been in the industry for over 30 years and I think that I have learnt more in the past 12 months from our people than I have in many years.”
Darren Wales, CEO
We’ve got trust by the truckload. Heavy Vehicle Accident Repairs. Australia Wide. At AMA Heavy Vehicle Accident Repairs we do one thing - and we do it well. The superior craftsmanship from our experienced team of repair professionals across Australia ensures your truck or bus is in the best hands. Our combined knowledge and ongoing investment in equipment, technology and people means we defeat the challenges of today, and into the future, for all types of heavy vehicles and trailers. And because we have strong and binding relationships with all major insurers we are able to quickly assess, quote and complete your repairs to ensure you are back on the road as soon as possible.
BRISBANE
Be safe on our roads, but if you need a repair contact us: Phone: 1300-223-072 Email: info@amagroupsolutions.com.au Web: www.amaheavyvehicle.com.au
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26 FEATURE
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Electric truck sends shock waves through Europe
Volta Zero is a new-generation truck from the new British ‘disruptor’.
BY BRENT DAVISON ELECTRIFICATION is the name of the game in Europe where sales of new internal combustion-engined (ICE) cars and vans in Britain will stop by 2030 and diesel-powered vehicles will be gone from much of Europe by 2040. While plans are being quickly formulated by established vehicle makers, British start-up truck maker Volta has emerged as a true disruptor, pushing hard into the commercial sector with its revolutionary new ‘Zero’ mid-sized electric truck. Not only is the mid-sizer turning heads, it is also capturing industry attention and filling the company’s order books. Touted as the first 16-tonne, zero-emission commercial vehicle designed specifically for urban deliveries and operations Zero, which starts user-trials this year ahead of full production next year, is claimed to be the world’s first purpose-built, full-electric truck designed specifically for inner-city work. A pure battery electric vehicle (BEV), Zero has a claimed
operating range of up to 200 kilometres and will, according to Volta, eliminate an estimated 180,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually by 2025 (based on the expected number of diesel-engined trucks it will replace). A cleansheet design means Volta has completely reimagined every aspect of the truck’s
appearance, materials, safety and design concepts. For example, vehicle safety has been addressed with a glasshouse-style cab featuring a low, central seating position made possible by removing the reciprocating engine, giving easy entry and exit and an unprecedented 220-degrees of visibility, reducing blind spots.
An eyeline height of around 1.8 metres also puts drivers and vulnerable pedestrians and cyclists at an equal level for improved non-verbal communications. Rear-view cameras replace traditional mirrors and visibility is further enhanced with a 360-degree ‘birds-eye’ camera showing the truck’s full surroundings. A blind spot warning system also detects objects along the vehicle’s sides. Inside, a futuristic, uncluttered dashboard featuring a central display system showing critical information acts as a driver information interface and touchscreens either side control lights, air-conditioning, navigation, communication and in-cab media functions. Zero also boasts the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), enhancing overall safety by helping drivers manoeuvre and park. Other safety support systems helping operations in tight city confines include Active Steering, Road Sign Assist and Reversing Assist with reversing camera. On the road, Lane Change Assist and Lane
Central driving position and driver-operated touchscreens. Note the rear vision screen on the windscreen pillar.
The low seating position puts the driver at line-of-sight with pedestrians and cyclists.
Departure Warning systems ensure safe operations. Drivers also benefit from an artificial intelligence-based technical status monitoring system to help avoid breakdowns and maximise vehicle uptime. Structurally, Zero pioneers hybrid cabin construction by combining a light, strong carbon fibre windscreen surround and metal spaceframe with the cab’s external body panels attached. Those panels are made from a strong, sustainable natural flax fibre and biodegradable resin composite, a high-tech material developed in collaboration with the European Space Agency and boasting the same crash and safety performance as conventional panels. Importantly for an electric vehicle, the flax composite is non-conductive, reducing short circuit issues in the event of a crash. It also has up to three times better vibration damping. Volta Trucks CEO Rob Fowler says while trucks have to operate in cities for commerce to exist the environmental damage they do is not acceptable. Fowler, who is disappointed the UK’s ICE ban does not extend to large commercial vehicles, said when the Zero was launched it showed a pent-up demand for the electrification of trucks.
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Recharging is simple and the Volta Zero has a range of up to 200 kilometres.
“The unprecedented reaction from our customers, decarbonising their fleets to meet forthcoming (European) legislation and improving the environment for everyone has more than validated our expectations,” he said. “Society needs goods vehicles but it also needs good vehicles; vehicles that are zero emissions.” Showing the strength of the desire for vehicle electrification, Europe’s leading refrigerated truck rental company, the Petit Forestier Group which runs more than 58,500 diesel trucks, has already ordered 1,000 Volta electrics for its fleet. London-based soft drink maker Drinks Cubed has also signed a multi-million dollar deal with Volta for a fleet of Zero trucks. At this stage there is no indication that Volta will try to break into the Australian truck market.
DRIVER PROFILES 27
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Truckin’ In The Tropics
with Alf Wilson
Terry Kane and John Myles
Wayne Bowden
WHEN Big Rigs saw Terry Kane and John Myles, they were parked at a lush green area in Millaa Millaa on the Atherton Tablelands and ready to deliver fuel to a the nearby Mungalli Creek Dairy Farm. Not being a religious man, however I did mention the location could have resembled the Garden of Eden. They work for Marano’s Fuel which has depots around the Tablelands and Cairns and were tending to their Kenworth 409. “My delivery to the Mungalli Creek Dairy went well, I was fairly happy it was holiday time as the road access is narrow on Brooks Road so there wasn’t any oncoming surprises. I also had deliveries out to Dimbulah which included mango farms and a few small customers that need fuel to get through. Good to see a few road upgrades out that
drivers say the Gillies because it is so winding but I prefer it as it is not so busy,” Myles said. Kane said he liked the Palmerston which connects the Tablelands with the Bruce Highway just north of Innisfail. “There are lots of holes on it but it is a nice drive.” They both reckon it’s a pleasure working at one of the most beautiful regions of the country. Marano’s Fuel is an independent, locally owned family business with over 60 years delivering fuel and oil in the north.
HEAVY rain didn’t prevent Wayne Bowden from towing a broken down car away at Ravenshoe on the Atherton Tablelands in far north Queensland. I saw Bowden and his 1997 Isuzu in action at the public park near the Ravenshoe CBD. He runs Innot Hot Spring’s Auto and has been doing the job for 40 years. “I get all over the Atherton Tablelands, to Cairns and Innisfail and couldn’t get a better area to work around,” he said. This job was to tow a vehicle about 28km away to Battle Creek. The owner of the car spoke to Big Rigs and said that Bowden provided a great service at a remote location. Bowden has his own motto which is “If your car’s a pain and getting no gain don’t complain just call Wayne.”
chat because I just love yarning to people and you never know who you will meet here,” he said. Lynch was in Cairns with his wife who had spent several days in Cairns Base Hospital and was proud to show me a picture of his fifth great grandchild Nicko who was born on January 7. “It does rain a lot at Babinda and we normally win the wettest town award but were beaten narrowly this time by Tully, but not by much. Today 133ml of rain fell on Babinda,” he said. Lynch hasn’t enjoyed the best of health in recent times. He has suffered two heart attacks and was diagnosed with bowel cancer.
“Doctors managed to remove the cancer from my bowel and I now live life to the fullest. They got it before it had spread so early diagnosis is the key,” he said. Predictably when he lived in Victoria, Lynch’s favourite beer was VB, and also Abbot’s Lager, but that changed since he moved to the tropics. “I now love Great Northern Beer but it has to be cold and lots of people up here also drink it,” he said. Another passion of Lynch’s is boxing and he likes attending Babinda amateur boxing tournaments organised by respected locals Eric and Christine Norman. “It is a great night out and they didn’t have many tourna-
way, makes life easier when traveling there. My day was incident-free and every road user was behaving very well actually,” said Myles, who has been with the company for 18 months; while Kane just started three weeks before. They get as far away to Cooktown up north and to Cardwell in the south, and travel along numerous highways including the notorious Gillies, the Palmerston and the Kuranda Range Road. I asked the lads which of the three highways are the worst to travel on. “A lot of
Locals told me that Bowden was among the best known truck drivers in the region. “You often see his truck
at different places around here and Wayne is also a very friendly bloke,” Jan Lamont told me.
ments in 2020 due to Coronavirus regulations but I hear there will be some on again soon so I’ll be there,” he said. The sport known as ‘sweet science’ may be Lynch’s favourite at Babinda but he also enjoys fishing in the abundant waterways near there. Although hundreds of trucks travel daily along the Bruce Highway past Babinda,
Lynch said there wasn’t that many in the town itself. “I know a few of the locals who have trucks including one up the highway at Mirriwinni,” he said. Life is good for Lynch and he said he would pick up his copy of Big Rigs from a nearby roadhouse at Gordonvale so he can keep up with the latest road transport news.
Graham Lynch FORMER Victorian truckie Graham Lynch now lives an idyllic life deep in the north Queensland tropics at Babinda, which has just been named the second wettest town in Australia. Aged 75, Lynch moved to Babinda 10 years ago after being a Victorian road transport industry man, either as a driver or administration officer for more than 20 years. “I was born at Ferntree Gully in Victoria and worked for smallgoods company Mayfair Dandy for about 10 years driving Isuzu and Hino trucks, making deliveries to places like Ballarat, Geelong and Albury-Wodonga,” Lynch said. Ferntree Gully is situated at the foothills of the Dandenong
Ranges, 30km south east of Melbourne’s CBD. After that Lynch worked in operations for Clayton based Freezeline and would get to drive a Hino to Northlake when truck drivers were off sick. “I was also in that job for 10 years,” he said. I met up with Lynch when we were both enjoying a cold drink on the Cairns Esplanade. Outside it was raining heavily and the wind was strong in the aftermath of a cyclone alert. Lynch said he holidayed in Babinda, where his wife had relatives, after retiring 15 years ago and fell in love with the town which is between Innisfail and Cairns beside the Bruce Highway. “My nickname is have-a-
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Tassie Truckin’ Andrew Cowen
IT was great to catch up with Andrew Cowen from Bagdad the other day at the Caltex at Epping Forest when he dropped in for a quick cuppa and a bite to eat. At the time he was driving a 2011 Freightliner Coronado for Worsley’s Transport with a 600 Detroit up front and towing a B-double, and he was on
Paul Douglas
his way back to Hobart from Devonport. Cowen tells us he is rather made up with the Coronado which was previously well known as Darren Curtain’s truck, and that it still runs like clockwork as well. “I have been back nearly two years with Greg this time, and I can honestly say he runs
a top outfit with a great crew. “I’ve been on the road now for about 30 years all up, including about 11 years on the big Island, and that included three years on the East/West run and carting bricks around Perth. Then I decided to come home to Tassie in 2017; I can honestly say you don’t appreciate how good Tasmania is, or how much better it is driving down here, until you come back from the Mainland. “I have just come home from a couple of weeks holiday in Queensland, and it has really made me think about how well off we are down here.” We asked Cowen how he spent his time off, and he told us: “Well after spending time with the family, it’s pretty well all devoted to cars and motor bikes, like my M 109R Suzuki, and then taking it easy. “I am also wondering are they just going to let the roadhouse at Bagdad die? There is certainly a gap there needing one.”
Peter Smith WELL things are surely progressing apace with the renovations at Mood Food, the 24hour Truckstop at Kempton, and it was great to catch up with Peter Smith from Geil-
with Jonathan Wallis
HAVING stopped over at the Caltex Roadhouse at Epping Forest the other day, we were pleased to catch up with Paul Douglas from Kempton when he also rolled in for a refreshment break. He was driving his Kile Transport 2010 Argosy with a Series 60 500 Detroit up front and towing a drop-deck Curtainsider on his return leg from
Spreyton to Derwent Park. “I’ve been here with Kile’s for seven years now, and I’d have to say they are a really good little family business who have never lost that personal touch, and really look after their drivers and run good clean well-maintained gear. “All up I’ve been on the road professionally now for 30 years or so, and I can honestly
say I have never had any real regrets. I am on the go here five days a week, which keeps the wheels turning and the bills paid.” We asked Douglas how he spends his time off, and he told us: “I like getting out in the open air, and doing a bit of camping, that’s when I’m not mucking around with old cars.”
Wayne Anderson
ston Bay, who had recently fuelled up at the new dedicated diesel area and was enjoying a refreshment break there on a rather cool summer’s day. Driving a Fox Log Freight’s
2009 K108 with a 550 Cummins up front, he was towing a drop deck loaded with general freight on his return leg to Hobart from Launceston at the time, his daily run. “We carry anything and everything pretty well,” Smith told us, “and I have been here for seven very good years now, as they are truly a great outfit to work for and pretty well leave me alone to get on with the job. “As well as six years in the airforce I have been driving now for 30 years, and I’ve no real regrets, it has been, and continues to be, a good honest way to earn a living. And especially driving, and looking, around Tasmania, where there is always so much welcome variety, so you are never bored.” We asked Smith about his time off, and he said he enjoys spending time with the family, and also tinkering with an old Bedford van and an old Transtar on his place.
“I’VE been here with Norton’s for 9½ years now, and I reckon they are a great outfit to work for, in fact they are such a good mob that the only way a job ever comes up here is if someone dies! That’s what Wayne Anderson from Burnie told us the other day when he rolled in to the Caltex at Kempton for a refreshment break. “I really couldn’t ask for a better mob to work for, and with, in fact, and they are keeping us busy too which is always good.” Anderson was driving an eye-catching Norton Transport’s 2013 G 480 (“The Kiwi”) Scania at the time and he was towing a fridge pan on his return leg back to Burnie with general freight from Hobart. Anderson was born and brought up in Harihari on the West coast of New Zealand’s South Island, and did a bit of dairy farming, a bit
of coach driving, and even a stint or two horse training along the way. “But now I find I am really happy in Tasmania and driving here, it’s a great way to earn a living and see some pretty spectacular scenery and
meet some nice folk along the way; no, I get plenty of job satisfaction here all round.” We asked him how he spent his time off, and he told us that they have a little farm up behind Yolla and that keeps them really busy.
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Good ol’ fashioned country service at Qld roadhouse
A tow truck heads to a job in Queensland
try service was great and you could sit out the front of the roadhouse under shaded seating and watch traffic cruise by.
SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON
Wondecla Roadhouse It may only be small but the Wondecla Roadhouse in far north Queensland is very popular. Wondecla is a hamlet near Herberton on the Atherton Tablelands and the roadhouse is located beside Longlands Gap Road. When Spy visited last month it was raining cats and dogs. During a 40 minute stay about 30 vehicles pulled up, mostly 4WDs and some light trucks. It was very busy and the two courteous ladies working there were coy about having their photos snapped. The food was served up promptly and was delicious and some of the drivers even phoned to order for pickup on arrival. Good old fashioned coun-
Rest area debate One of the questions I ask the many truckies I yarn to each year is: are there enough rest areas around Australia, especially those which are user friendly for truckies? The majority answer is ‘no’ and some will gladly offer their opinion on which Aussie state or territory has the best overall. Take into account the drivers I speak to come from many parts of this vast country which is testimony to the transient nature of their fine work. With that in mind I went through scores of drivers who I’d seen, and tried to check out the responses of an equal number from the six states. And the winner was NSW. A lot of drivers, even those from others states, nominated rests areas there, especially in the northern part of NSW. One which does get a lot of praise is the Frank Partridge rest area beside the Hume Highway, near Menangle, which is named after a war
hero and Victoria Cross winner. Tow truck trauma I saw a photograph the other day that showed the absolute look of sadness on the face of a tow truck driver who was one of the first to arrive after a horror accident. It turned out to be an accident which claimed a life, and that made me feel for the many towies in this country. They see terrible scenes including emergency services personnel using the jaws of life to remove injured people from wrecks.
But despite this, towies never seem to get the recognition they deserve. Often and rightly so, emergency services personnel such as police and fire brigade officers receive recognition for the great job they do and the trauma they face. Of course they do a wonderful job in dealing with the first-hand experience of seeing deceased and injured people. Often towies will be criticised by members of the public when they front up to accidents. That graphic photo made Spy think about the vital roles
our towies play and I’d like to acknowledge the great work they do. Cost concerns in NT High costs were a major concern for a South Australian driver who did a run from Port Headland in WA this month to Alice Springs in the NT. During his travels, the road runner went through Karratha, Timber Creek, Fitzroy Crossing and numerous other places. “I found most things were very expensive and there was not much for truckies. Fuel was dear. The Alice Springs
A truck travelling in Tassie’s Huon Valley, home to the famous Franklin Valley tavern
Roadhouse was okay but…,” he said. The driver has now retired. He sold his truck and two trailers to a young fellow wanting to make a career from the industry. “I have been very impressed with him,” he said. You can’t beat experience Experience gained by truckies who have been regulars on the highways and byways is vital for the road transport industry. Spy was delighted to hear that a 75-year-old veteran owner-operator based at Dublin in South Australia had just purchased a brand spanking new Mercedes Benz truck. Dublin is a small town about 80km from Adelaide. He is well respected in the industry and my informant said the senior citizen used to have a Sterling. “This gentleman bought the Mercedes in Adelaide and carts a lot of steel out of Whyalla,” my man said. During the past year Spy knows of at least 10 Septuagenarians who have retired from the industry. Whilst the average age of Aussie truck drivers is said to
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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 be over 50, there are many younger ones driving and these are described as the future of the industry. But the experience gained by these old-timers who are still fit to drive can never be underestimated. As time goes by Times have changed over the years and that was never more evident after a conversation Spy heard. A well-known NSW based company owner started off small and his business has grown a lot over the past 25 years. He owned 10 trucks a quarter of a century ago and in 2021 that has increased to more than 80. You would imagine that profit would have also increased. But not so. “I make roughly the same amount of profit now as I did back then despite having many more trucks,” he told his mate. Opportunity knocks Is this a case of being in the right place at the right time or just good luck? A WA owner-operator pulled up at an interstate roadhouse parking area when an unknown gent from nearby approached him. “You have the right truck and trailer set up which would be ideal for some work a mate of mine has going,” he said. So after receiving the number he contacted the business and ended up gaining 12 months sub contact work at what he described as a “good pay rate”.
Rubbish bonus People who secretly place rubbish in a neighbour’s bin would annoy many people. Especially the bin owner. But not so for a Victorian truckie who turned such a situation into a nice little monetary bonus. He noticed some unknown persons placing empty cans and bottles in his wheelie and recycling bins which were under his front steps. A bit of investigation revealed it was nearby residents from a guest house who enjoyed a liberal sprinkling of amber fluid. Instead of whinging he rolled with the flow and removed them and placed them in a big container. Every few weeks he took the tins and bottles to a recycling depot and received 10 cents for each one. The smallest amount he has received was $20 and the biggest just over a nifty $50. By December he reckons there will be around $500 in a special account for Christmas cheer. I hope my invite will be on the mailing list. Urgent need for toilets There is an urgent need for a public toilet along a 260km stretch of Queensland’s Gregory Development Road between Cape River and Clermont. It is a boring trip with only one public dunny along the entire 380km section of the Gregory from Charters Towers to Clermont.
The Frank Partridge rest area is named after a war hero and Victoria Cross winner
That is at the Belyando Crossing Roadhouse on a busy inland route for road trains. There is a stopping bay with no facilities about 95km north of Clermont but it is often strewn with litter. It seems travellers stop there often for a call of nature as reports have come to Spy from truckies of used toilet paper being amongst the filthy litter. Of course that attracts flies and other insects and the Gregory Development Road is often mentioned by truckies as dangerous to negotiate. Whilst it is all bitumen, many sections are narrow and uneven. The truth is that the stopping bay is now a genuine health hazard.
Fly on the wall wish For many years a group of off duty truck drivers have met at the Franklin Tavern in the scenic Huon Valley of southern Tasmania. Spy is told they discuss a variety of subjects including the latest news regarding the road transport industry around the Apple Isle, sport and anything else which tickles their fancy. Some of them are loyal Big Rigs readers and one told me he enjoyed an article we did recently on new rest areas for the island state. The beautiful Huon Valley region is about 40km south of Hobart and for most of the year is green with lush grass. It has been suggested you
might like to “be a fly on the wall” during such gatherings over a few amber fluids. Pardon the pun but I would just like to be a “Spy on the wall”. Life is a beach Trucks from the Mendi Group are common sights around the far north and the company is also very community minded. Mendi provided 300 tonnes of sand for the Beach Fives Rugby Tournament held along the Townsville Strand beach on February 26 to 28. More than 2000 people watched games as 21 teams battled it out in men’s, women’s and junior divisions. Without a doubt the high-
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light was a celebrity match in which former champion football players Johnathan Thurston and Lote Tuqiri were on opposing sides. Thurston and Tuqiri were champion rugby league footballers and Tuqiri was also a star rugby union player. Led by Thurston the Castle Kings beat Tuqiri’s Aussie Dingoes 12-10 in the final. Carnival organiser Peter Hickey was glowing in his praise of Mendi and told Spy the sand was also well accepted by the community after the event. “Nippers from the local surf lifesaving club enjoyed it and so did members of the community who use the beach,” he said.
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Your voice must be heard
EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM
TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS
james.graham@bigrigs.com.au
contributors@bigrigs.com.au
TWU NEWS
TWU NEWS RICHARDOLSEN OLSEN RICHARD TWU NSW State Secretary TWU NSW State Secretary
IN 2021 transport workers are pushing for the respect and organising for the change that the industry needs. At your workplace we stand for fair pay and conditions, job security, respect and safety for all workers. Those at the top of the supply chain in the transport industry have a duty of care. The voice of the transport worker must be heard. Those at the top of the industry who choose to ignore that voice or find ways of suppressing are not taking on their share of the responsibility for a safer and fairer transport industry. The TWU has no problems with business doing business that creates jobs and that means that transport workers are on the road and families have a future, however members will not stand idly by whilst company actions create inequities because those at the top seem to have forgotten the value of the transport workers who drive their business forward.
We sometimes go on strike because we have tried everything else to get an arrogant or disdainful management to come to the negotiating table. Every EAGLE day, TWU members LEGAL stand upKING and question the acROWAN Principal RK Law tionsLawyer of companies that refuse to consult before they take action. We have trained Health and Safety Reps that have the power in yards to have the conversations that mean people get safely home. We form negotiation committees to ensure workers have a voice at the enterprise agreement negotiations. Workers should not be going backwards in wages and conditions, yet there are plenty who are living the Rolls Royce lifestyle and avoiding their responsibility towards the people who build their business profit line. Workers are taking steps towards utilising collective power and rejecting insultingly substandard agreements and deals. The pandemic has seen the business of moving freight grow, there is no denying that. Where a company chooses to put that income only into the bottom profit line, then members will say no. The TWU continues to walk beside transport workers. Working together means that we can organise for change to deal with the problems drivers
face every day. Our collective voice exists because you have joined the fight; we have a stronger voice. We have the ability to hold
companies and governments to account over the financial squeeze that results in poor vehicle maintenance, safety issues in yards, drivers pushed
to work long hours and speed, drivers ripped off their wages and super, fatigue management, and deaths and injuries. A safer and fairer industry,
you can’t argue with that. Join the fight, contact your TWU delegate or TWU Branch to find out how you can get involved today.
The TWU says working together means that it can organise for change to deal with problems that drivers face every day.
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COLUMN 33
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Port investments benefit heavy vehicle operators VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association
IN our modern, 21st century intermodal transport system, long-term investments in every facet of our industry are essential for the economic health and well-being of every type of operator. That’s why as an advocate for the transport industry, the VTA is as vocal about road and rail infrastructure projects as we are investments in the ports and channels network, which is typically the first – and last – port of call for the vast majority of our imports and exports. We therefore welcomed contracts being signed by the Victorian Government recently with WSP and Seymour Whyte Constructions for the design and early contract works for the Port Rail Construction Project.
The $125 million project will create productivity and efficiency improvements for operators servicing the Port of Melbourne by reducing road congestion in and out of the Port through diversification of how freight is transported over the last mile. The VTA has long advocated for greater productivity gains at the Port to make it an even more competitive destination for importers and exporters of freight. Investing in rail in and out of the Port will make transporting freight from distribution centres an even more seamless undertaking, helping to reduce pressure on the road network for motorists and road transport operators whose freight cannot be brought into the Port via rail. According to the Victorian Government, the works will include a new rail terminal interfacing with the container terminal at East Swanson Dock. Site investigations will begin in March with construction expected to commence in July. The project is set to be completed in 2023.
The $125 million project will create productivity and efficiency improvements for operators servicing the Port of Melbourne.
Upon signing the contracts, Victorian Ports and Freight Minister Melissa Horne said the Government is also supporting the Port Rail Shuttle Network connecting freight hubs in Melbourne’s west, north and south east to the port, new intermodal terminals planned at Truganina and Beveridge, and improvements in the regional rail freight network. It is important to note these projects are not about a net reduction in freight for
road transport operators because attaining productivity and efficiency gains will enable the Port of Melbourne to attract greater volumes of freight, which is good news for road, rail and sea freight operators. As I often say, ships, planes and trains carry freight but only trucks deliver. With the Australian domestic freight volumes projected to grow by approximately 25 per cent between 2018 and 2040 every type of transport operator will benefit from this
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growth, but especially road transport operators with road freight volumes projected to grow by around 56 per cent. Looking at the other modes of transport over the same period, rail freight volumes are projected to grow by around 17 per cent, domestic coastal shipping volumes are projected to remain more or less around 2016 levels, and air freight volumes projected to grow by around 17 per cent to around 393 million tonne kilometres in 2040.
The clear picture emerging from these numbers is that transport continues to be an industry in ascendency, fuelled by population growth, the proliferation of and growing confidence in online shopping. Contrary to concerns that the COVID pandemic would discourage growth in the sector, the evidence points to the opposite with consumers having to change their behaviour and increase reliance and dependency on home deliveries. The VTA also welcomed the creation of Ports Victoria, bringing together the Victorian Regional Channels Authority and Victorian Ports Corporation (Melbourne). It makes sense to consolidate the operations of our ports and waterways bureaucracies, as recommended by the Independent Review of the Victorian Ports System. We look forward to continuing to work with stakeholders from the ports sector to help Victoria and the Port of Melbourne retain its position as the premier destination for freight.
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TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE
those who have fought and died for our country and our freedom. Any state politician who cancels EDITOR Anzac Day services and marches does not deserve JAMES GRAHAM to be in office in this country james.graham@bigrigs.com.au and should step down. This is not about politics or party differences is about honouring our past and present servicemen and women on this special day. This is also the time of year when the media and social media is full of articles and editorials about equality and TWU NEWS bridging the gap and quotas RICHARD OLSEN andNSW everything TWU State Secretaryelse as we celebrate international Women’s Day. While I totally believe in equality I believe in equality for all but the rhetoric just gets louder and louder for quality for women, almost everything spoken or written is about equality for women; there is little or nothing about discrimination for men; when they talk about family violence there’s nothing about violence against men and it is perpetrated against men by women, family violence can happen in all relationships,
against women, against men, in same sex relationships, and it needs to be at the forefront of all of our minds. On calling for equality we TASSIE TRUCKIN’ need to talk about equality for JON WALLIS all; equality for women, equalcontributors@bigrigs.com.au ity of a man, equality for everyone. We will never achieve true equality until every man woman and transgender person is treated the same and we must all do this together. Transport Women Australia Limited has celebrated its International Women’s Day with dinners LEGAL EAGLE in Sydney and Melbourne and attended the ROWAN KING QTALawyer function in Brisbane. Principal RK Law We are now completely gearing up for our conference in May and all efforts will be concentrated on that. Tickets are now available through trybookings and the programme will be available from the printer very shortly. The conference is being held at The Mantra Epping in Melbourne, the Safe T360 truck will be attending on Friday and Saturday and we have some amazing speakers lined up for you. We are so looking forward to welcoming y’all back to
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 vaccines roll out and hopefully our essential service truck drivers are in the front of the line to get the jab. I do not believe that the vaccination should be mandatory, but it should be made available for frontline workers as soon as possible. THE OZ TRUCKER Once these essential serMIKE WILLIAMS vices are vaccinated, our aged contributors@bigrigs.com.au and vulnerable populations should receive it, it should then be made available to the general population. However, anyone wanting to protest and collect in large numbers for political causes should be last to receive the vaccine. As we return to normal, we must reinstate our lifestyles and most importantly celebrate our National Holidays LOBBYIST and bySHEARER this, I mean Anzac STEVE Day importantly. SA Roadmost Transport Association Executive Director If we can have a return to sporting crowds, Mardi Gras, and Moomba, we can honour
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
contributors@bigrigs.com.au
If we can have a return to sporting crowds, Mardi Gras, and Moomba, we can honour those who have fought and died for our country and our freedom.
Melbourne after the last 12 months of uncertainty; I am so excited about seeing you in person and producing a great programme. We thank our sponsors who have remained
loyal throughout these trying times. Our website is about to launch, and you will be able to find all our amazing initiatives available on there or I
could be contacted via chair@ transportwomen.com.au or call 0417 422 319. Sponsorship and speaking opportunities are still available.
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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Role models drive change COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER EMILY MILLS Australian Trucking Association
WHAT do you choose to challenge in trucking? Is it to remove bias? Smash stereotypes? Or foster positive cultures?
In 2021, we are seeing more women in transport than ever before. The benefits of this are clear, and there are so many success stories, but there is still plenty more we can do. Of all transport workers, 26.4 per cent are women, primarily in administration roles, with 3 per cent in the driver workforce. When we look at key statistics of women in the transport and logistics sector, we
can see that the roles they occupy are primarily support-related such as administration, human resources, procurement, and finance. These same statistics also highlight that female transport and logistics employees have, on average, higher education levels than their male counterparts. 18.3 per cent have achieved a diploma or higher, compared with 11.7 per cent of males. In February 2020, the
ATA together with Teletrac Navman delivered its inaugural Driving Change Diversity Program, bringing together diverse industry champions from across the country. While the program looked at diversity on a much broader level than gender alone, the key themes and outcomes of the program remain relevant. Unconscious bias and fear of discrimination were identified as predominant barriers
Chantelle Gillier, Project Coordinator at Johnstons Transport and 2020 Diversity Champion, says she is living proof that women can do anything in this industry.
to gender equality and inclusivity, followed closely by a lack of understanding and resources of how to create and maintain positive workplace cultures. Research by Teletrac Navman tells us that nearly 70 per cent of women working in transport say there are plenty of opportunities, although the same number say they have faced, or believe they will face discrimination in the workplace. 2020 Diversity Champion and Group Services Manager at Russell Transport, Tanya De Landelles, says that its important the transport industry evolves a culture where the best person for any role is selected, not the expected stereotype. But it’s not all negative – there are already so many wonderful examples of women taking the lead in transport and smashing the stereotype. “You don’t have to be a lady in the office. You can drive a forklift or a truck. You can do anything, and I am living proof of that,” Project Coordinator at Johnstons Transport and 2020 Diversity Champion, Chantelle Gillier said. So, how can we change the ‘mind trap’ to a ‘mind movement’? How do we shift the negative outlook and improve gender equality and inclusiv-
ity in industry? Although we cannot reshape a culture overnight, there are many things on an individual, business and whole-industry level that can help foster positive change. For individuals it can be as simple as having a real conversation and sharing your story. The power of encouragement, mentorship and being a role model to others cannot be underestimated. For businesses, you can expand your understanding of resources that are available to help drive change. You can connect with your team to understand their needs and challenges. And for industry change, it is the role of the Australian Trucking Association and our members to foster strong leaders through programs like Driving Change or our Future Leaders Forum. It’s our role to support industry and provide a platform where we can have real conversations and share success stories. It’s also our role to advocate on behalf of industry to ensure the right legislation and policies are in place to support our ambition. Driving change is not something that should be seen as scary or ‘too hard.’ It is something that is genuinely exciting and will have a lasting impact if you #ChooseToChallenge.
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40 PUZZLES PUZZLES 36
4
5
6
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 7
8
9
10 11 12
13 14 15
16
17 18
19
20
21
SUDOKU
Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
QUICK 1
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 Name a kind of in soup or stew (6) (7) thousand patents his lifetime? Whataissour the last word 8 13 Name liquid (7)of “Rule Britannia”? (6) Misfits in 1961 was the last film starring Marilyn 9 15 To The depart in a sudden manner, is to do what (7) Monroe and which other actor? (5,5) 10 18 Which is about one halfaoftamandua the ordinary Nativenewspaper to Central and South America, is what type of(7) animal? (8) page size 19 What cloth is spread over a coffin? (4) 11 20 Name of pasta cutfor into (7) (5) Whataisform an informal word “a flat verysheets long time”? What disease also known as lockjaw? 12 21 What are heavyisone-edged swords (6)(7)
14 What is a number of puppies brought forth at one birth (6) 18 When one reduces to an average, one does what (7) 21 What is the official proving of a will as valid (7) 22 Which term describes one who mends shoes (7) DOUBLECROSS 23 What is the first letter of a proper noun (7) CROSSWORD 24 To3be merciful, is 5to be what6(7) 4 7 Find a finished crossword by deleting one of
the two letters in each divided square.
8
Down
9
11
14
15
1 2 3 4 5 616 7
Which gods come10to earth in a human form (7) What do we call those who seek social rank (5) To not be distinguished by birth, is to be what (7) 12 What is another term for a crib (6) 13 What is a fertile place in a desert region (5) Which term describes dry weather (7) 17 What is a chain of hills known as (5)
18 20 21
22
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)
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
SOLUTIONS
5x5
SUDOKU N I T R E
G E A R S
E G R E T
Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.
19
A S S E T
SUDOKU
EASY
R E E D S
ALPHAGRAMS: LEASE, MYRIAD, NEARING, ORGANIST, PATRONESS.
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.
DOUBLECROSS
HARD
C A
A T
R
U T
M I
TODAY: Good 13 Very Good 18 Excellent 24
amir amrita aria arum atria atrium attar aura auric carat cart Across: 1 Robust, Bin, 9 Evert, 10 Home, 11 Manna, 12 Ape, 13 Grated, 15 cram curt marc maria mart raita rata rimu tarmac tart6tiara tract trait tram trauma TRAUMATICTest, trim18 Heed, 21 Riders, 24 Axe, 25 Agile, 28 Pink, 29 Files, 30 Try, 31 Tenets.
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.
Across 1 Strong and healthy 6 Container 9 Turn outwards 10 Habitual abode 11 Bread from Heaven 12 Monkey 13 Jarred 15 Examine ALPHAGRAMS 18 Pay attention Solve the anagrams. Each solution a one-word 21 isAdded clauses anagram of the letters beside it, 24 and the Toolfive solutions are sequential. For example, if the five-letter solution 25starts Nimble starts with J, the six-letter solution with K, and so 28 Colour on. 29 Tools EASEL 30 Attempt DIM RAY 31 Held principles GRANNIE Down ROASTING 1 Send money TRANSPOSE 2 Eggs Insert letters to 3 the missing Divers’ affliction 5x5 make4ten words — five reading Ashes container across the grid and five reading A G R down.5 Male deer 6 more Vessel Note: than one solution I G Obstruct may 7 be possible. 8 Require S A E 14 Tree R E 16 Cure-all 17 GolfAll mound puzzles © T S S The Puzzle Company 19 Banishment 20 Garment 21 Deeply engrossed 22 Refuse 23 Unharmed 26 Spirit 27 Permit
Down: 1 Remit, 2 Ova, 3 Bends, 4 Urn, 5 Stag, 6 Boat, 7 Impede, 8 Need, 14 Ash, 16 Elixir, 17 Tee, 19 Exile, 20 Dress, 21 Rapt, 22 Deny, 23 Safe, 26 Gin, 27 Let.
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
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) 5 13 A star that suddenly brightens gradually Name a kind of distilledthen whisky (7) fades is called what? (4) 15 To be senselessly foolish, is to be what (7) 6 Which film, 1984’s Best Picture Oscar winner, was 16 in Name a brilliantly coloured parrot (7) filmed Prague? (7) 9 17 Where was Louis Armstrong (3,7) What is another term born? for lively intelligence (6) 11 Which woman was married on 29 April 1945, and died 18following T o surpass others, is to do what (5) the day? (3,5) 1219 What is the awidening of a in river where saltwater Name thin silkchannel net, used millinery, dressmaking, mixes with freshwater? (7) etc (5) what is the colour silver? (6) 14 In heraldry, 1620 Millions of do records froma which immigration entry(5) What we call HinduUS religious ascetic island are accessible on the internet? (5) 17 Which English college was founded by Henry VI in 1440? (4)
MOORE
QUICK CROSSWORD
3
SOLUTION
2
GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Across: 4 Chowder, 8 Vinegar, 9 Abscond, 10 Tabloid, 11 Lasagne, 12 Sabres, 14 Litter, 18 Equates, 21 Probate, 22 Cobbler, 23 Initial, 24 Lenient.
1
Down: 1 Avatars, 2 Snobs, 3 Ignoble, 4 Cradle, 5 Oasis, 6 Drought, 7 Ridge, 13 Bourbon, 15 Idiotic, 16 Rosella, 17 Esprit, 18 Excel, 19 Tulle, 20 Fakir.
G E N E R A L K N O W L E D G E
FRIDAY JUNE 12 2020 BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
More Trailer For Your Money
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PITTSWORTH PHONE (07) 4693 1088 Fax (07) 4693 1545 email: sales@mooretrailers.com.au www.mooretrailers.com.au IBRE01Z01MA - V1
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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
Doing it the old way costs you money COST CUTTER CUTTER COST CHET CHETCLINE CLINE AIR CTI Air CTIfounder/owner Founder/ Owner
DOING it the old way costs time, money and limits your income. Whether you’re digging ditches, machining, welding, fixing your truck or transporting product. No one would dig a ditch with a shovel, or expect to be competitive WOMEN TRANSPORT without aINCNC machine, or JACQUELENE BROTHERTON weld up something with oxy. Chair of Transport Women Australia I like old trucks but would never put one to work. Inefficient, low power and rag tyres. It just won’t work like a modern truck. Running tyres ‘like we always have’ doesn’t work either in the 21st century. 100 psi in every tyre simply costs you too much. Safety is reduced, costs are too too many breakTHE OZhigh, TRUCKER downs,WILLIAMS too much downtime MIKE contributors@bigrigs.com.au and profits are missed.
AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH
TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE
contributors@bigrigs.com.au
contributors@bigrigs.com.au
You can often see a slightly dirty section in the centre of the tread surface, with a clean section on either side.
In fact, running any truck without knowing your tyre pressure is like playing Russian Roulette. Your driver is flying blind. If your steer tyres EDITOR are under-inflated, any further JAMES GRAHAM loss of air pressure, and you james.graham@bigrigs.com.au could have a deadly blow out. Fifty years ago, I purchased my first wide radial tyres. The tyre manager told me; “Radial tyres must ‘bag’ out or they can’t work.” Yet walk around your truck and look at the tyres where they meet the road. Do your tyres ‘bag out’? Your steer tyres will. But your drive tyres won’t. Look where the rubber TWU NEWS sits on the OLSEN road. How long is RICHARD TWUflattened NSW State Secretary the area? It should be
LOBBYIST STEVE SHEARER
SA Road Transport Association Executive Director
Just a 20 per cent over-inflation wipes out 22 per cent of tread life.
about 200 mm. The flattened area on your steer tyres is most likely 230 to 250mm long (under inflated). Your drive and trailer tyres, in most casTRUCKIN’ es,TASSIE are simply round. No flat JONThey WALLIS spot. are over inflated. contributors@bigrigs.com.au Often, you can actually see a slightly dirty section in the centre of the tread surface, with a clean section on either side (as pictured). Over inflated tyres lift the outer part of the tread off the road. It doesn’t even touch. But it does touch when road roughness or out of balance causes the tread toLEGAL flex. This is when scalloping EAGLE and outer tread ROWAN KINGwear occurs. In Principalfact, Lawyer the RK Law actual speed that the outer part of the tread is actually going is slower than the part that is touching the road. It just grinds the outer part of the tread away. Almost all uneven tread wear is caused by, or is amplified by, over inflation. So, you are throwing tyres away. They are expensive. And then you sit still in the tyre joint getting new ones. More down time. Look at the Michelin tyre wear chart for drive tyres on Aussie roads. Twenty per cent over inflation wipes out 22 per cent of your tread life. Your casing life also drops. Running the right tyre pressure with the right tools always adds at least 30 per cent to your tread life. And you get less punctures. And no blow outs. Uneven tyre pressures in dual assemblies is universal. The inner tyre always runs hotter because of several factors. All of the engine heat heats up the inner tyre. The inner tyre surrounds the brakes. Axle flex and road camber increas-
Wheel bearing life is dramatically reduced with incorrect tyre pressure.
es the load on the inner tyre. Unless the tyres have a system to ‘equalise’ the pressure, tyre wear increases. Bridgestone reported that a “5 psi (0.3 bar) difference in tyre pressures resulted in an 8mm difference in circumference, which leads to the larger tyre dragging the smaller tyre.” And, “Over a year, the under inflated tyre is dragged more than 1540 km.” This uneven pressure also wastes a lot of fuel. It gets worse: If one tyre has 20 per cent more air pressure, the wheel bearing life is reduced by 40 per cent (Transpec). “Over a life span of 1 million kilometres, a 20 per cent difference in pressure will add at least $600 to the operating cost. Increased fuel consumption will add at least $30,000 to the operating costs of each trailer. Poor inflation can reduce tyre life by more than 25 per cent, which adds at least $2,700 to the operating costs of each trailer.” The same happens to the prime mover. Uneven tyre pressure will add at least $50,000 to the operating costs of a single trailer and prime mover. It gets worse. Back in the 80s, there was a lot of research done by the Canada and USA.
Goodyear was involved. Strain gauges were placed on the drive axles. The correct, reduced tyre pressure reduced twisting strain “by at least 30 per cent.” This virtually eliminated axle and drive train breakages. Our customers report that diff and transmission life doubles. Over inflated tyres hammer your truck and driver into an early grave. Over inflated tyres amplify every bump, costing you a fortune. Weyerhaeuser in the States reported to the Oregon Logging Conference that Suspension wear and tear reduced 85 per cent. Springs don’t break. Bushes last three times longer. Fatigue cracks in chassis are virtually eliminated. Even suspension seats lasted 65 per cent longer. Add in the fact that the correct pressure for the load reduces stopping distances and tail swing by at least 15 per cent. The truck rides better, handles better, is easier to drive, reducing driver stress. The right pressure is safer. Okay, 100 psi in all the tyres costs an average semi rig $10,000 to $20,000 per year. Over the life of the truck, $200,000 is thrown away. If your truck works harder, or works in steep country, or on gravel or dirt roads, you’re
wasting double the above. So what is the correct tyre pressure? Weigh the axles to find out what your real axle load is. Look your tyre size up in a ‘Load to Inflation Table’. Run your finger across the weight choices until you find your weight. The correct tyre pressure will be directly above that weight. That is the pressure you need. If the load changes, then the tyre pressure must change. There is only one correct pressure for each load. I can’t change the pressures every time the load changes. Central Tyre Inflation makes it easy. Simply push a button on the dash display to change pressures. Dual tyres are automatically equalised at all times. The system automatically warns the driver if a puncture occurs, and automatically adds air, keeping your truck rolling, and your driver safe. AIR CTI works on all axles. It pays for itself in the first year, saving you time, money and risk. Savings over the life of a heavy truck range from $100,000 to $500,000, depending upon the work the truck is doing. And AIR CTI is guaranteed for 1,000,000 kms or five years.
Optimizing Tyre Pressures is Essential if Profit is IMPORTANT AIR CTI WILL SAVE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS ON EVERY TRUCK ON EVERY ROAD. • 30% LONGER TYRE LIFE • Doubles Diff and Tranny Life • Doubles Suspension Life • 50% Longer Truck Life • Less Downtime
• More Uptime • Safer • Greener
Optimize Your Tyre Pressures with AIR CTI Match Tyre Pressures to the Load and the Road 100 psi in all tyres is simply WRONG
AIR CTI 03 51276128 | www.aircti.com Ring now for more information. Aussie Made
38 CAREERS AND TRAINING
FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU
Perth truckie reaches for
Recently named the Women in Trucking Australia (WiTA) Driver of the Year, go-getting truckie Hannah Hughes is certainly making her mark on the industry she loves. BY DANIELLE GULLACI
Hannah Hughes works in the McColl’s Transport Bulk Chemical Division, carting dangerous goods.
ORIGINALLY from New Zealand and now living in Perth, Hannah Hughes comes from a family of truckies. She knew she wanted in on the action from as far back as she can remember. Hughes works in the McColl’s Transport Bulk Chemical Division, carting dangerous goods including acids and chemicals to mine sites in the Pilbara and Goldfields. She’s been in that job since she got her road train licence four years ago – and she wouldn’t have things any other way. Asked what she loves most about the job, her passion clearly shines through. “I love the variety we get here and the whole driving side of it – just being out on the road and the things that you get to see out on the road, the beautiful sunrises and the sunsets,” she said. When Hughes chatted to Big Rigs, she was halfway
Easter Group Pty Ltd 73 Formation St, Wacol
into a trip to Kalgoorlie. Her days and weeks can be so diverse. Some weeks, she’ll do upwards of 7,500km, others might be closer to 3,000km, and then some weeks will involve more local runs. “I’m in a beautiful Kenworth T609, the pride of the fleet. I absolutely love this truck, that’s why I love doing long days in it and staying away for nights on end.” Growing up, Hughes was surrounded by truckies. Her grandfather, stepfather and uncles all drove trucks, mainly working in earthmoving. “Trucking was in the family already. I was around it from a very young age and it’s something I took a big liking to. There’s a huge amount of family in NZ that drive trucks,” she said, revealing that she moved to Australia in 2011 to follow her dream of driving bigger rigs and chasing bigger opportunities in trucking. When Hughes was nominated for the WiTA Driver
of the Year Award, she admits she didn’t think she stood a chance, but was ecstatic to go on to win the award and receive such recognition. “When I saw the other nominees, I thought it was really tough competition. I really was taken back by the support of all the people who got behind me. It was something I wanted so badly, and I was very excited to win.”
The inaugural WiTA Driver of the Year Award was launched to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8 and was open to all working female truckies. In announcing Hughes as the winner, WiTA commented: “WiTA would like to thank each and every one of the 21 Aussie female truckies who agreed to share their diverse and quintessentially Aus-
She has been steering road trains for the past four years.
E X H I B I T I O N S PAC E NOW ON SALE
PROUD PARTNER
Department of Transport
M E L B O
S U P P O R T I N G SP O NSO R
U R
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:
N E C O
OPERATIONS ALLOCATORS
N
You will be required to work on a rotating roster including Days-Nights-Weekends Previous Operations experience preferred.
N
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(Brisbane based only)
E T I O
MC LOCAL & LINEHAUL DRIVERS WANTED
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(Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide Based)
E
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 Leanne Braid (Operations Manager) or by emailing your resume to
WORKSHOP MECHANICS & TYRE FITTERS WANTED (Brisbane based only)
To apply for Mechanic positions please forward your resume to Michael MacRae (Workshop Manager) via email to employment@kseaster.com.au
H X H
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I B I T I O N C E N T R E
CAREERS AND TRAINING 39
BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY MARCH 19 2021
the stars
Save the date
March VTA Conference March 21-23 Phillip Island, Victoria Visit: vta.com.au
The Victorian Transport Association will host its annual State Conference at Silverwater Resort, Phillip Island. It will feature a range of speakers from industry, regulators, government and other key stakeholders. Tasmanian PBS Roadshow March 22, 24 & 26 Burnie/Launceston/Hobart Visit: tta.org.au The roadshow is designed to build your knowledge about the opportunities for improved productivity and safety through PBS innovations.
The Kenworth T609 she drives is her pride and joy.
tralian stories to national and international communities in celebration of our upcoming International Women’s Day Awards. “The one thing all of these women have in common is their love of trucking. Women can’t be what they can’t see and with the support of these remarkable female truckies –
over half a million people have had the opportunity to recognise trucking as the viable, diverse, challenging, professional and interesting career it is.” For any women considering a career in trucking, Hughes said that although they may need to work that little bit harder to prove themselves, it can definitely be a
rewarding career. “There’s still a lot of doubt out there and there will be hard times, but then at times like this you realise how much the rewards outweigh the negative things you may encounter along the way. “There are definitely so many opportunities out there in this industry.”
April LRTAQ 2021 Annual Conference April 9-11 Roma Explorers Inn Visit: lrtaq.com.au The Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Queensland (LRTAQ) invites you to join them as they mark their milestone 40th anniversary. Fittingly, we are headed back to where it all started – Roma – the location of the very first
meeting of the then LTAQ back in 1981. May Brisbane Truck Show May 13-16 Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Visit: brisbanetruckshow. com.au It’s full steam ahead for the Brisbane Truck Show, which will feature some of the latest trucks, trailers, components and equipment, showcasing an array of ground-breaking technology solutions. TWAL Conference May 28-30 Epping, Victoria Visit: transportwomen.com.au
The eighth Transport Women Australia Limited Conference will be emceed by Melissa Strong of Lindsay Australia. She will be joined by various speakers including Kerrie Challenor of NTI and Jodie Palmer of Volvo Group Australia. September MEGATRANS September 8-10 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Visit: megatrans.com.au MEGATRANS is Australia’s leading industry freight and logistics trade exhibi-
tion and conference, showcasing multimodal transport solutions. For the first time, MEGATRANS will be held in conjunction with the specialised bulk handling expo, Australian Bulk Handling Expo 2021, with both events taking place side by side. Australasian Road Safety Conference September 28-30 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Visit: australasianroadsafetyconference.com.au The 2021 Australasian Road Safety Conference will combine a mixture of in-person and online delivery to ensure people can be involved regardless of any travel restrictions that may be in place. The event aims to align with road safety efforts across Australia, New Zealand and globally, and assist in building road safety capacity. November Illawarra Convoy November 21 Illawarra, NSW Visit: illawarraconvoy.com.au The Illawarra Convoy and Family Fun Day is the largest truck and motorbike convoy in the Southern Hemisphere, raising much needed funds for various charities.
Join Our Team Doser Freight Forwarding is a family owned 56 year-old general and time sensitive freight company that operates throughout the eastern seaboard of Australia. Due to growth we have an exciting opportunity for MC Interstate Drivers to join our team, based in Melbourne and Adelaide. • Excellent maintenance procedures
• Excellent wages and conditions
• Great take home pay
• Uniforms provided
About the Role • Interstate linehaul position. • Routes include Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney and Brisbane
To be successful for this role: • At least 3 years experience • Must have road ranger gearbox experience • Excellent attitude and presentation • BFM accreditation preferred • Hold a MC and forklift licence (desired) • Have experience correctly restraining loads and able to complete paperwork • Good reliability & attendance • Clear communicator and must be punctual • Agree to carry out a National Police Criminal Check • Clean driver history (must supply driver history report) • Prepared to undergo a medical to ensure you are fit to drive a heavy vehicle • Must supply safety boots and smartphone PLEASE NOTE ONLY APPLICANTS WITH A MULTI-COMBINATION LICENCE (B-DOUBLE) WILL BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS POSITION Please note only successful applicants will be contacted. Only applicants with a right to work in Australia will be considered. To apply for this position, please call Dave on 08 8162 8100 or email your cover letter and resume to compliance@doserfreight.com.au.
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