Big Rigs 3 Sep 2021 by Prime Creative Media

FRIDAY, September 3, 2021

ONLINE www.bigrigs.com.au

EMAIL info@bigrigs.com.au

ROADHOUSE WRANGLE RESOLVED Pages 4-5

BONUS 10-PAGE TRAILER SPECIAL Pages 38-47

BREAKING BARRIERS

DEAF TRUCKIE OVERCOMES IMPOSSIBLE ODDS TO INSPIRE OTHERS: PAGES 22-23

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

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Multi-national logistics company caught falsifying work diaries A multi-national logistics company has been issued with an Improvement Notice by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), after an investigation uncovered evidence of falsified records and insufficient fatigue management, compliance, and auditing practices. NHVR Investigators completed an extensive safety duties investigation after receiving a report through the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Confidential Reporting Line. Evidence found the company had scheduled drivers to drive between Adelaide, Melbourne and regional New South Wales without sufficient rest hours. Multiple drivers had falsified their National Driver

Work Diary pages by recording rest breaks during work hours. NHVR Director of Investigations Steve Underwood said these activities were a serious breach of fatigue management regulations under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. “Alarmingly, the company’s tight scheduling and insufficient auditing allowed these critical risk breaches to occur. Drivers exceeded the maximum allowable work time by as much as 3 hours in a 24 hour period,” Underwood said. “This Improvement Notice ensures the company will make scheduling arrangements that allows drivers to recover from fatigue, record all long-distance work hours accurately and won’t cause drivers to work in breach of

Multiple drivers had falsified their National Driver Work Diary pages by recording rest breaks during work hours.

their work and rest options. “This should act as a reminder to all operators to check you have right protections in place to manage fatigue, set manageable schedules and carry out robust quality assurance measures, to meet their safety

and regulatory obligations.” Under the Improvement Notice, the logistics company must make improvements to their scheduling and auditing practices. Every vehicle combination in the company’s fleet will use

an Electronic Work Diary to support compliance with fatigue laws, as part of the notice. The company is subject to monitoring by NHVR Investigators over a six-month period to ensure compliance with the notice.

Truck driver charged after fatal crash near Forbes

A 42-year-old truck driver has been charged following a fatal collision on the Newell Highway last month. Emergency services responded at just after 6am on August 18 to reports that a B-double and a Toyota Avalon sedan had collided on the busy highway approximately

25km south of Forbes in regional NSW. Officers from Central West Police District attended along with NSW Fire and Rescue, RFS and NSW Ambulance. The driver and sole occupant of the Toyota, a 64-yearold man, died at the scene, a

police media statement said. The truck driver suffered minor injuries and was taken to Forbes Hospital for mandatory testing. A crime scene was established, and the Crash Investigation Unit attended and have commenced an investigation into the circumstanc-

es surrounding the incident which closed the Newell Highway for several hours. Upon his release from hospital, the truck driver was arrested and taken to Forbes Police Station, where he was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death and negligent driving

occasioning death. He was given conditional bail to appear at Forbes Local Court on Tuesday, October 19. Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, or has dashcam vision, to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

WA grain sector bracing to weather ‘perfect storm’

BY JAMES GRAHAM

MICHAEL Harding hasn’t seen a skills shortage crisis like this in the grain sector in all his years in the trucking game. The director of The Freight Lines Group – one of the major players in WA’s looming grain harvest – calls it a perfect storm: a pre-existing driver shortage exacerbated by a pandemic and a record 22 million tonnes yield. It’s a massive issue for everyone, says Harding, without a quick fix. “You’ve just got to minimise the damage and work with your clients to work out the best way to get the grain away,” he said. Harding would usually have a fleet of 80 trucks to call on when the season kicks off in earnest next month. But this October he estimates that he’ll probably be 25-30 trucks short of the volume he needs, with 7-8 in his own fleet parked up without drivers. “I’ll probably jump in one, probably put the OH&S guy in one and put the workshop manager in one, so you’re rob-

Grain haulers, like Campbell Transport, are bracing for a longer-than-normal season due to a bumper crop and a chronic shortage of drivers.

bing Peter to pay Paul really.” Harding can only pray that the borders open up, but even then it may not be enough with most east coasters – and Kiwis – opting for the higher pay on offer in the mines $50-plus vs. $40.

“A lot of other drivers are reluctant to come over now because they don’t know how they’re going to get back,” Harding said. “They think, ‘What happens if there’s an outbreak in WA like there is in Sydney

and I’m stuck there for 3-4 months?’ “Yes, there is work there but if there is a complete lockdown all that could dry up a bit as well. “It’s just a really crazy world we live in at the moment and

we’ve all just got to all got to learn to adapt and find a way through. It’s going to be really hard work for everyone involved in our industry.” Leon Whittle, the Jerramungup-based operations manager for Campbell Transport, is also bracing for a longer-than-normal season, one that may not finish until the end of January, rather than earlier in the month. “We’ve hit the panic button; we can’t get drivers,” Whittle told Big Rigs. “We just picked up two new ones, but we’re way down on what we should have. “Everyone’s putting it down to Covid.” Whittle said the pandemic is also starting to impact on the supply of bulk trailers. “You could ring quite a few people over here at the moment and they’re all screaming for trailers, and they’re not going to get them in time because you can’t get materials from overseas to make the trailers.” For both Whittle and Harding the immediate workaround are the waterproof bags farmers can use to store the

grain until a truck frees up to cart it away. Whittle is keen to tap into government-funded driver training programs such as the one masterminded by the Western Roads Federation to play his part. Although supportive of those types of schemes, Harding, however, said he’s more focused on finding a shortterm solution. “Those three-, four- and five-year plans to get young people into the industry are great, but they’re a while away. They’re not going to solve the short-term problem which is not just limited to harvest. “Directly straight after harvest all of us companies contracted to CBH they then want all the grain carted in from the outlying bins into the ports so they can export it out, so it just doesn’t stop. Harding is also against fast-tracking a driver through to the MC level. “That to me becomes a safety issue. I’d rather farmer X and CBH, or someone, has to get 120t a day less, but everyone is a lot safer, that’s probably the way I’d rather go.”

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4 NEWS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Roadhouse rules: Top cop orders doors to stay open

THE NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller has confirmed that the state’s truck stops and roadhouses will be reopened to support the trucking and freight industry during the pandemic. For a distressingly longtime last month, truckies along some of Australia’s busiest freight routes were shut out of their usual dining stops and amenities by police ignor-

ing national cabinet orders. A media statement said the Commissioner has advocated for a solution which strikes a balance between road safety, delivery of essential goods, as well as enforcement of the Public Health Orders to limit the spread of the delta strain. From August 22, roadside trucking services such as servos and roadhouses were ordered to reopen to ensure

that trucking workers have the amenities that they need to conduct their operations safely and efficiently. This included dining, showers and toilet amenities. These services and facilities will not be open to the public, the statement said. Commissioner Fuller acknowledged NSW Health for working closely with police to ensure this common-sense

Regional police reportedly threatened to fine the managers of this roadhouse at Gilgandra $5000 if they allowed truckies to dine-in.

approach will be reflected in the Public Health Orders to ensure the state’s transportation workers are able to conduct their work safely. “As the state is coping with lockdown measures to limit the spread of Covid-19, the delivery of essential goods is more important than ever,” Commissioner Fuller said. “Our essential transportation workers need to have the access to truck stop facilities to ensure that they can revive and refresh to ensure that they can manage their fatigue as they perform these vital delivery and freight services. “Each day during this pandemic, we are encountering new and emerging issues and I thank NSW Health for working so swiftly with us to resolve this very important issue,” he said. Roadhouses will be required to develop Covid-safe plans to ensure that business operations can comply with Public Health Order restrictions to limit the spread of the virus. This will include: • QR check ins • E nsuring adequate spacing and cleaning, particularly

With their usual sit-in dining options closed, truckies were forced to take meal breaks where they could. Photo: Facebook

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NEWS 5

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

“OUR ESSENTIAL TRANSPORTATION WORKERS NEED TO HAVE THE ACCESS TO TRUCK STOP FACILITIES TO ENSURE THAT THEY CAN REVIVE AND REFRESH TO ENSURE THAT THEY CAN MANAGE THEIR FATIGUE AS THEY PERFORM THESE VITAL DELIVERY AND FREIGHT SERVICES.” MICK FULLER

in dining facilities • H and hygiene facilities • Enforcing mask wearing requirements; and any other strategies to minimise the risk of the virus spreading. • Dining areas will not be available to the public and will need to be partitioned off to ensure that the facility is clearly marked as only available for truck and transportation workers. “It is a shame it took as long as it did to get this sorted but the announcement is a great outcome for our truckies and roadhouses in NSW as well as the many people who have been advocating for this issue,” said WA Senator Glenn Sterle. Sterle was one of those making the loudest noise, even writing to state premier Gladys Berejiklian and her senior cabinet ministers lobbying for an urgent fix. Interstate operator Kevin Macdonald couldn’t believe

what he was seeing and hearing when he pulled into the Shell roadhouse at Gilgandra, NSW, before the commissioner stepped in. Normally the busiest on the Newell Highway and “chock-a-block” with truckies looking to refuel on the Melbourne-Brisbane run, a stunned Macdonald instead was greeted with a closed dining area and near-deserted truck parking. Macdonald said frustrated roadhouse staff told him that local police have threatened them with a $5000 fine if they let truckies dine in, which conflicts with the national cabinet exemption allowing dedicated stops and lounges to remain open during Covid lockdowns. Staff told Macdonald it was the same scenario at the nearby Caltex roadhouse. Big Rigs contacted both for comment. The Shell manager didn’t return our call, while a Caltex staffer referred us to head office. “This copper, or whoever has made the rules there for the areas, is just crippling them,” said Gladstone-based Macdonald. “I stopped in Bellata on the way down and had my dinner where they’ve got sitdown meals, showers, toilets… they’re really good. “But they’ve basically hamstrung these poor bastards in Gilgandra and there is nothing they can do. “It’s hurting them financially, and it’s hurting the truck drivers.”

Reader reaction Cate Howson: About time. Hubby about to start his week in a lot better frame of mind. Which makes me feel better knowing that he can eat properly and shower. Barry Bambrick: It should never have happened. They criticise Protesters and yet their actions in closing these places also put lives at risk. Kristin Read: Good God, finally some decisions of very recent times that makes workable sense!! Guys, may the Road Angels watch over and protect you all for safe returns to those who love you. Commissioner Mick Fuller stepped in to save the day for truckies.

With facilities also closed further south in West Wyalong for similar reasons, Macdonald said truckies were forced to drive from Albury to Bellata (833km) with nowhere to sit down for a meal and a rest outside of the cab. Macdonald said he was worried about the mental health impacts this type of treatment has on his drivers and other interstate truckies, many of whom are at breaking point due to the arduous Covid testing regimes. Meanwhile, Sterle has vowed to double-down on his campaign to clean up roadhouses right around Australia.

His lobbying has already had a dramatic impact with several servos committing to making fixes to truckies amenities. “On a daily basis, I get photos and messages from truckies on social media detailing the poor conditions they encounter at service stations and rest areas; including broken showers, dirty toilets, lack of parking bays, quality of food options, the list goes on and on,” he said. “Our truck drivers are essential workers. They have kept Australia moving throughout the pandemic. They deserve much better than this.”

Kelly Davis: So thinking about this if truck drivers were able to get back there needs to stay on the roads then what would happen if all the big company shops like big w coles woolies schools medical all shut there doors imagine the result like so many little shops have been closed down so many teachers builders health care workers stuck in border towns can’t get to work now wouldn’t it be nice if everyone stood by each other the same way truck drivers stood up together just saying Pete Holdback: Nswpol need to grow a brain. This country runs on the the back of trucks. They won’t

have to worry about protests in the cities if truckie continue to be treated like out casts, we’ll just block roads a no one get nothing. Quinn Russell: Same thing happened in QLD with the ‘bikie legislation’ too many police on the beat got too carried away with the new laws without fully understanding the intent of the laws. Some got too caught up in the hunt and senior police eventually told them to back off and check with senior police before intercepting/interacting with motorcyclists. Nothing changes. I’ve got no issue with the police doing a good and thorough job, but recognise the line between that and over the top. Linden Watson: The bones headed authorities just don’t get to they, to actually realise that people travelling long distances with their work are not robots, but people just like themselves and it is asking too much to be able to avail themselves of just the basic human needs, as sitting down to a decent meal, to be able to shower and stay ‘fresh’! Michael Talbot: A massive thank you to all the truck drivers and the families they leave to drive long distances and provide the goods that service this country. I wish you safe travels and all love to your families.

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6 OPINION We can only pray it lasts

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

THE way this pandemic is evolving, chances are we’ll have another health order, or police interpretation of it, that nullifies everything you read about Covid in this issue. Take the cartoon on the right, for example. No sooner had we asked cartoonist Ryan Lee-Taylor to depict the unjust closures of roadhouses up and down the highways of regional NSW, when top cop Mick Fuller ruled they must stay open. I really feel for drivers right now who are being pushed to the limit with different testing and permit rules in each state that are constantly changing to keep the deadly Delta variant at bay. What I don’t believe in, however, is a retalitory national strike or blockade, as some ‘fringe’ elements on social media have been espousing. Yes, it would certainly get attention on the 6pm TV news but will that really win the respect and concessions we so desperately need? It may just end up demonising us more than we already are in the eyes of the general public.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

OPINION 7

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Drivers’ mental health and fatigue suffering EVERY time they think they’ve got everything right, something either changes or becomes more convoluted. Here are just some of the things drivers now have to do just to stay safe from Covid and enforcement: • Know what the restrictions/ requirements are for each state and territory, and each region or suburb within those states/territories, they will be in or travelling through. • Get tested every 2 or 3 days, in their limited ‘rest’ times, just so they can be sure to have a negative result within the last 7 days. • Make sure they can easily access their Covid Safe Plan and letter of employment. • Check multiple times a day to see if requirements have changed for any location they

Truckies are having to go through more hoops than ever before with the ever-changing restrictions being brought on due to Covid.

may need to work, in or drive through. • Check multiple times a day to see if any place they did happen to be able to stop at is

now in an “affected area” or is a place of concern. • Hope that the nearest facilities are open so they can just go to the bathroom.

• Isolate as much as possible – even when they are at home. • Get a permit, or five, depending on whether or not they’ll be crossing a couple of

borders and returning across those same borders. • Wonder if they are now mandated to be vaccinated or not, regardless of their individual

medical conditions that may or may not put them at a higher risk of a reaction. • Wonder if they’ll be pulled over by the police and escorted back across a border because an officer was incorrect in their understanding of some new or poorly communicated mandate, or they couldn’t wait another five minutes for the driver to have the documents resent to them on their phone (which is now so full of permits and notifications it’s easy to loose specific items) Why was the National Cabinet convened if their recommendations are simply pushed aside for someone else’s ego to be stroked once again? Angie Welsh Big Rigs reader

There’s no driver shortage, just a lack of recognition I refer to an article in in your publication by James Graham, Feds ask for proof of driver shortage. In my opinion there is far from a driver shortage having been a driver and owner in the transport industry for over 25 years I believe there is more than enough drivers here. What

there is a lack of is recognition of the skill, dedication, commitment, money, qualifications and respect in the industry, the number of drivers I’ve seen walk away from driving is astounding and they won’t come back because it only gets worse year by year not better. We only get things taken

from us nothing is given back! I have a son, 24, been driving trucks since he was 14. He won’t drive anymore, saying he can work as a computer help desk tech for more money and fantastic conditions. ( any kid who graduated high school can become a computer help desk tech if they want to).

Freight companies and contractors not only want drivers to drive for twelve and fourteen hours a day the want the drivers to be customer service reps, sale reps, admin office reps, account reps, maintenance and mechanical workers, cleaning staff the list goes on all well not eating properly not sleeping properly,

not going to the doctor, not going to the dentist not going to counselling, staying away for home not seeing kids and loved ones. Driver shortage, my arse. It’s a shortage of conditions, remuneration (we are the largest sector of unskilled workers in the country) and respect. So, what

do they want all these groups who think there’s a driver shortage? I’ll bet you it’s foreign workers who will drive wages and conditions down (again) you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to see that. Name withheld

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8 NEWS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Crowdfunding kick-starts board game

A unique Australian trucking board game will finally make its official debut, after a successful crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter helped a 20-year dream come to fruition. Created by Trefor Jones, who worked as a truckie before spending nearly 40 years in the truck hire industry, the Linehauler board game is now on the market. “With the help of two mates and a small Kickstarter campaign, the game is finally alive after 20 years of work,” said Jones. “It’s a little bit daunting,

but so exciting to finally see it come to fruition. And a number of people who have played the prototype have all said they’ve found it quite interesting. It’s quite a relief to get it to market. “I’m pleased to have it out there. I’d like to thank Big Rigs and a few of the other organisations that have helped me like the National Road Transport Hall of Fame. It’s not only for truckies, it’s a good family game as well.” To play the game, players start in a rigid truck and work their way around the board to build their fleet with a

semi-trailer, B-double and then finally the road train – the ‘King of the Road’ – to become a Linehauler champion. They travel through Australian towns along the way and hear of some of the road rules too. Pre-orders can also be made via the website at linehauler. com.au. Orders placed up to September 30 will also receive a free stubby holder and key-ring. In addition to the standard game, there are 100 limited edition versions up for grabs too. They are each individually numbered and will feature a special limited-edition key-ring too.

A successful Kickstarter campaign helped a 20-year dream come to fruition.

Truckie launches new driver hire concept to combat Covid

Keven Mitchell.

WHEN one door closes another opens for never-say-die Sydney truckie Keven Mitchell. Rather than being discouraged by having his hours cut back due to the pandemic, Mitchell is taking the glass-halffull approach by offering his services to smaller operators struggling to fill seats. Already he’s picked up 2-3 days on runs to Tarcutta, and the like, and now Mitchell, who used to work full-time driving in

the building industry, wants to help other truckies caught in a similar predicament. Although still to nut out how his concept will work, he is confident he will be able to marry up other truckies with stop-gap roles – and isn’t going to charge a cent for his services. “I’m not the only driver in this position,” said the Stoneworld staffer, who also makes ends meet by making truckthemed leather stubbie holders.

“There are plenty of drivers who have been stood down, and there are also drivers stuck in Covid areas who can’t work, and there are also companies who are screaming for drivers. “It’s a very, very hard time for everybody. “Even going to Queensland now, it’s an absolute nightmare. “Do you know how many drivers I’ve talked to lately who have said, ‘Bugger it, I’m not doing Sydney-Brisbane anymore?’

“I know of a dozen who refuse to go to Brisbane. Covid’s killed this industry, but it is what it is and we have to keep trudging along in the system.” If you’re a small company needing drivers, or a driver looking for work, Mitchell wants to hear from you on ph 0416 451 822, or visit his website kmtransport.godaddysites.com. “This is about companies who are struggling to find drivers,” added Mitchell, who has

27 years of trucking experience and holds an HC, MC and DG licence. “I’d never go work for the big mobs because they’ve got tons of drivers, and companies like Linfox, and all that, are making tons of money. “There are trucking companies out there with a couple of rigids and maybe one semi and they’re struggling for drivers. “They’re the companies I want to go out and help.”

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10 NEWS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

High-tech steering wheel sensor closer to launch

BY BRENT DAVISON

BEING ‘a bit tired’ is now being identified as a major killer of truck drivers and is raising concerns in Australia’s road transport industry. Last year’s National Transport Insurance (NTI) Major Accident Investigation Report highlighted fatigue as the biggest single cause of truck driver deaths, accounting for almost 35 per cent of fatalities. It is a chilling realisation that, in 2020, some 18 drivers lost their lives in fatigue-related crashes with many seriously injured, making fatigue a hot button issue for transport companies now and into the future. Safety bulletins and in-cab reminders may help manage the issue but are basic at best, hit and miss at their worst. Canberra-based tech company Augmented-Intelligence, however, looks to have a handle on driver fatigue management with a system called FatigueM8 (pronounced ‘Fatigue Mate’), an electronic “driver’s mate in

the cab” monitoring an individual driver’s physiological state. FatigueM8 is a quantum leap beyond the simple driver alert found in so many cars and does way more than simply flash a coffee cup icon on the instrument panel every couple of hours. Initially proposed in 2018 as a way of saving lives, equipment, freight loss and time, it promptly won the Australian Trucking Association’s FatigueHACK competition. Augmented-Intelligence co-founders Andrew Hammond and Doctor Kelvin Ross believe the best way to solve the problem is to monitor fatigue levels using the driver’s own biometrics and, once baselined, use them to predict fatigue levels across a one to two-hour time horizon. Simply put, FatigueM8 runs an operator systems check every couple of hours and lets drivers know if they need to take a break. It does so by recording each operator’s baseline data,

An early FatigueM8 unit being trialled in a Kenworth prime mover.

“OUR SOLUTION IS TO PREDICT DRIVER FATIGUE LEVELS OVER A ONE-TO-TWO HOUR HORIZON AND THEN RECOMMEND A SET OF REST OPTIONS THAT WILL HELP DRIVERS TO PROACTIVELY MANAGE THEIR FATIGUE.” ANDREW HAMMOND

checking the resting heart rate and factoring-in the Circadian Rhythms – individual physical, mental, and behavioural changes running a 24-hour cycle and responding primarily to daylight and darkness – to work out what is right and what might be problematic. With FatigueM8’s sensors built into the steering wheel, the check-up is carried-out by drivers doing nothing more than simply holding the wheel for a short period of time – 30 seconds every 30 minutes. Complete data capture to establish the full driver baseline takes about two weeks. “The whole concept is that we want FatigueM8 to be super passive,” Hammond said. “Our core thesis is that individual drivers generally know their own signs of tiredness, such as sore shoulders or aching knees, but all too often, once they’re fatigued, the places to stop and rest are limited, especially for something like a B-double. “So, our solution is to predict driver fatigue levels over a one-to-two hour horizon and then recommend a set of rest options that will help drivers to proactively manage their fatigue.” Factors used to determine

fatigue include driver heart rate, vehicle speed and travel time and even data from the NTI Accident Report. Armed with that information and the supplied driver details, FatigueM8 uses a traffic light system to determine operator health. A score of 60 or less gets a green light, 60 to 80 registers an amber alert and 80 or more kicks the warning into the red zone with drivers getting an alert in a variety of ways, from a simple dashboard warning to a base controller call. Augmented-Intelligence started its data collection trials on three vehicles in the Canberra area; a concrete truck doing short hauls around the ACT, a light commercial van city-hopping and a B-Double running between Canberra and Sydney. It has since added a number of long-haul rigs to its ‘fleet’ with semis running out of Brisbane and Toowoomba, a B-double out of Warwick and a Mt Isa-based quad-trailer roadtrain all adding to the data bank, speeding FatigueM8’s development Hammond says that, in all the testing carried out so far, there has been no operator pushback and the hardest job has been to remind drivers to keep both hands steadily positioned on the steering wheel for the necessary 30 second periods. “Habitual training is what we’re trying to get to,” he says. FatigueM8’s installation is simple. Fitting it to a Kenworth steering wheel, for example, takes about an hour. The electro-cardiograph (ECG) unit is placed under the horn cover and the onboard computer unit connected via a spare USB

port and mounted securely on the vehicle dashboard, its camera positioned to capture traffic density and road condition information as well as get a visual on the driver – although Hammond is quick to note this is not a ‘Big Brother’ scenario but simply to match the person with their records. An added benefit of Augmented-Intelligence’s focus on driver fatigue is its ability to monitoring cardiac health, Hammond suggesting FatigueM8 will be able to assist driver health in a holistic manner. Unfortunately, with the average driver age at just over 47 years, generally poor diets and limited exercise opportunities, operators are in the high risk category for cardiovascular disease. FatigueM8’s assessments are made using Food and Drug Administration-approved ECG monitoring devices and its re-

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cordings can be reviewed by cardiologists attached to the FatigueM8 team. Hammond suggests the first production examples of FatigueM8 could be on the market within 18 months. And while Augmented-Intelligence has its eyes fixed firmly on Australia’s roads Hammond concedes it has the potential to go global. “Quite frankly, there is nothing like it in the world,” he says with pride. How much will it cost? “We have to tailor it to be affordable for the single vehicle operators because they will probably need it more than the fleets and it has to be at a competitive price point. “We think at this point that it will be sold on a subscription plan at around $50 per month, per vehicle.” That could just be some of the transport industry’s cheapest insurance.

NEWS 11

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Young car drivers need more schooling on trucks

A new research paper shows young car drivers don’t know enough about the performance limitations of trucks to be safe on the road. The paper is the first output of the research partnership between the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) and the University of Newcastle School of Psychological Sciences, Australia. Its key findings included: • That there is little driver education material for young drivers that relates to sharing the road safely with trucks; • 19 per cent of Australian road fatalities were young people aged 17-25 years, despite making up only 12 per cent of the population; • Many young drivers are growing numb to traditional fear campaigns. Head of school professor Kristen Pammer said the review suggests that increased collision risk between trucks and young drivers is likely due to young drivers having underdeveloped awareness and hazard perception skills, as well as a substantial knowledge gap of the performance limitations of trucks. “This increased collision

Acting ATA CEO Bill McKinley said the paper was an important step forward in developing effective road safety communication and behavioural change projects.

risk is also likely exacerbated by young drivers engaging in risky driving behaviours around trucks that increases driver distraction,” Pammer said. “We intend to better understand and minimise these risks by researching how young drivers currently behave around trucks, how edu-

cation initiatives can increase young driver awareness of truck performance limitations, and whether these initiatives can effectively change young driver behaviours to minimise collision risk around trucks.” Acting ATA CEO Bill McKinley said the paper was an important step forward

in developing effective road safety communication and behavioural change projects. “The paper confirms our understanding that young people are overrepresented in road crashes and identifies the risk factors that are likely to increase collision risks between young drivers and trucks,” McKinley said.

“It also tells us that research-based, targeted driver education, such as SafeT360, is key to reducing collision risk. “This work is the first milestone in our long term, a visionary campaign of funding research to understand how to educate light vehicle drivers and develop their un-

derstanding of how to be safe around trucks.” The review recommends that educational initiatives aimed at increasing young driver awareness of trucks and truck safety be evidence-based, undergo rigorous evaluation and be delivered in a way that increases young driver perception skills.

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12 NEWS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Humble hero honoured for bravery

BY JAMES GRAHAM

MARGARET River truckie Ronny Seidel is glad he always listened to the wise words of his grandfather while growing up. When a Centurion Transport co-worker became snared in his truck cab after a 2018 crash it was his grandfather’s advice that he always carry a pocket-knife that helped save the driver’s life. “I cut his seatbelt, got him out and literally 10 seconds later the whole thing was one big fireball.” Seidel was reliving the terrifying moment for Big Rigs after being awarded a commendation for brave conduct in the recent 2021 Australian Bravery Decorations. At the time of the crash, German-born Seidel and the truckie he saved were on their way from Kalgoorlie to Perth along the Great Eastern Highway. Seidel had been following about 100m in behind in his Freightliner Coronado when a slow-moving road train loaded with grain turned west out of Northam-Pithara

Margaret River truckie Ronny Seidel was grateful for his grandfather’s advice.

Seidel was overwhelmed by news of his citation and is just glad no one was seriously hurt.

Road and headed the same way. Blinded by sunstrike on the incline, Seidel didn’t see the initial crash but somehow managed to avoid ploughing into the back of the trailer ahead. “My trailer got stuck on his one which sort of pulled me up. That was kind of lucky because I would have crashed into the back of him and it could have been the end of

second, but then I thought, ‘hang on, I can’t let him burn in front of my eyes’.” Seidel praised the quick-thinking grain truck driver who joined him in dousing the flames with an extinguisher so he could rip the door open. “We need a knife, we need a knife,” Seidel heard someone scream as he tried to wrestle the stuck seatbelt free. “I’ve always had one since

both of us,” recalled Seidel. “My biggest fear was that I was already in the east bound lane in the path of people coming down the hill.” Shaken by the near-miss but unhurt, Seidel raced to the aid of his fellow truckie whose engine bay was already well ablaze. “He was still conscious at that stage, but I could see that he wasn’t in the best way. “I literally froze for half a

I was a little boy because my grandfather taught me that a real man never goes without a pocket-knife in his pocket, and it kind of stuck in my head,” recalled Seidel. “Since then, I’ve always had one with me when I’m at work, and that’s what saved his life.” The driver escaped with a broken arm and a few minor burns, while Seidel walked away without so much as

a scratch and continues to drive for Centurion where he’s worked for the last five years. “This is not something you go looking for,” the humble hero said of the unexpected bravery award that followed. “I still don’t know who put my name forward. “It’s just lucky that no one got [seriously] hurt, that’s the most important thing.”

The first two truckies on the scene raced to the aid of the trapped driver.

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14 NEWS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Interstate truckie denied first jab

BY DANIELLE GULLACI

ADAM Thurling, 49, has been a truck driver for over 30 years, working as an owner-operator for the past 20 years or so. He’s based in Port Macquarie, and each week, he travels through Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, carrying general freight. Since the pandemic started, he’s been very careful to ensure he does the right thing but was sitting on the fence about whether or not to get the Covid vaccine. A visit to his doctor put his mind at ease and he decided to bite the bullet. “My doctor said she thinks it’s a no brainer given what I do and advised that I have the Pfizer. Apparently, there can be different side effects, so the different vaccines can be more suited to different people,” said Thurling. And so, he headed to the Port Macquarie GP Super Clinic to make his appointment in person. He put his mask on, scanned the QR code and waited his turn. “I told the lady what I was there for and she asked if I had been out of the area in the past 14 days. I told her I was an interstate truck driver and I get tested every three days and have minimal contact with anyone.”

What happened next was not what he expected. “She went and called someone else, then they said they couldn’t do the vaccine for me. I said what do you mean, I’m an essential worker. Her response was that I need to self-isolate for 14 days before I can come in. She also told me to leave the premises because there are vulnerable people here.” “I get tested every three days, wear a mask, check in and do all the right stuff. I have minimal contact with anyone, unload late at night and bring all my own food.” “It’s okay for us truckies to risk all this travel during a pandemic to put things on shelves, but God help us if we need any medical attention. They go on about how important it is to have the jab, then when we try to go and get it, they refuse to give it to us.” And it doesn’t end there. When Thurling’s 12-yearold son had an accident on his bike which resulted in a broken collarbone, he and his wife swiftly rushed the boy to emergency. Thurling was asked the standard question, “Have you been out of the area in the past 14 days?” And as soon as staff found out he was an interstate truckie, he was told only his wife could

When truckie Adam Thurling tried to get his first jab, he was told to go home and self-isolate for 14 days.

accompany their son, while he waited outside. “This happened on a Sunday afternoon at 4pm and I’d been home since

Friday afternoon, so if I had this disease, chances are that they would have it too. I think when I’m already getting tested every three days, I

can’t do any more than what I’m already doing.” Meanwhile, Thurling is still waiting for a jab, despite NSW now prioritising

freight workers for vaccination – he said the Pfizer stocks redirected to Sydney had yet to be replenished in Port Macquarie.

Free vaccine passport tool for the trucking industry for many areas of life - from domestic and international travel to going to the pub and the footy. One way or another you will need to carry this information and most likely it will be on your phone, says Michael Maher, CEO of the app OnePassport. Maher says the choice you have is how you carry this information. There are three models of vaccine passports in the

world, says Maher. They are: 1. G overnment-owned. In Australia as part of your MyGov record. 2. A free app supplied by a Big US Tech company that mines and sells your data. 3. A free app for individuals supported by a subscription-model management system paid for by employers and industry bodies. OnePassport is an Australian tech startup that provides the third option. Their aim

is to provide their users with “the benefit of digital with the privacy of paper”. “OnePassport is an app designed for aged care workers, nurses, teachers, builders, FIFO miners and other workers who need to manage their compliance items themselves and have them ready to share when they need to,” Maher said. Launched in 2017, OnePassport is used by over 20,000 workers across those

industries to carry licenses and registrations, visa info, qualifications and vaccinations. OnePassport provides you with a single app to store and manage all compliance items, not just Covid vaccination or tests, and Maher says the app also provides data intergrity as the company must maintain employee privacy and won’t sell the data. “The decision to share

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ONCE vaccine access issues can be overcome, the message is clear from federal and state governments: truckies with a double dose on board are likely to be afforded more freedoms than those without. At the time of writing, we’re already seeing vaccine requirements introduced at the Queensland/NSW border and in the Sydney construction sector and LGA hotspots. Vaccine passports are being discussed as a way forward

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18 FEATURE

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Test truck ticks all the right boxes for busy fuel hauler

A Freightliner Cascadia test truck with 500,000km under its belt convinced a Toowoomba-based fuel hauler to add another to its fleet. Maktrans played a key role in the local test program of the right-hand drive Cascadia, racking up as many miles as possible in a 126 Cascadia with a B-double tanker trailer set. That unit is still collecting data in the Maktrans fleet, hitting the half-million kilometre mark just before a new Cascadia 126 was purchased through Daimler Trucks Toowoomba. Maktrans director Rob Hannemann says the Cascadia test truck performed extremely well running at 68.5 tonnes on roads across regional Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia, including dirt tracks into many farms. “All the drivers comment on how quiet and comfortable the Cascadia is. It has absolutely no rattles or squeaks whatsoever,” Hannemann said. “We’ve not had an ounce of trouble with it.” The new Cascadia 126,

which features a 600hp 16-litre six-cylinder Detroit DD16 engine linked to a 12-speed DT12 automated transmission, has impressed Hannemann with its fuel consumption. It is the most efficient conventional truck in the mixed Maktrans fleet. “The leap in technology we see in the new Cascadia is certainly delivering economic gains,” he said. “It’s getting 1.9km per litre at 68.5 tonnes. A lot of that work on the New England highway, which knocks your fuel numbers around a bit.” The integrated safety technology of the Cascadia was also central to the purchase decision. Features include a driver airbag, radar-based AEBS advanced emergency braking system, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning and Sideguard Assist, which uses radar to detect people, cars and other objects down the side of the truck when it is about to move left into a lane or turn left. “Safety is central to what we do at Maktrans, so the level of active safety in the Cascadia is very important to us,”

Maktrans director Rob Hannemann says the Cascadia test truck performed extremely well running at 68.5 tonnes on regional roads.

Hannemann said. Making drivers comfortable and helping then remain well-rested is also important at Maktrans.

“We try and provide a good quality of life for drivers,” Hannemann said. “The spacious, comfortable interior of the Freight-

The Freightliner Cascadia test unit next to a Makrans Coronado.

liner (with 48-inch XT cab) certainly goes a long way in providing a home-away-fromhome for our drivers. Having space and comfort in the truck is important for these long hauls.” Hannemann says the driver acceptance of the Cascadia has exceeded all expectations. “All our drivers have high praise for it.” The Cascadia is ‘beautiful’ on the road, Hannemmann says, describing it as ‘extremely comfortable’ and ‘easy-to-drive,’ with lots of usable torque. “The DD16 engine is just so much stronger and smoother than anything I’ve driven before.” The Maktrans fleet also features a Mercedes-Benz Actros, which shares much of the same technology as the Cascadia. Chosen for A-Double

work, the Actros has been a welcome addition to the fleet. “The Actros is a perfect fit, and it partners seamlessly with our Freightliners,” Hannemann explains. Both Daimler products are proving reliable, which is important given Maktrans is delivering essential fuel. “In this business, there are no fail options; uptime is everything because there are a lot of people who depend on us. “Especially during harvest season when demand for fuel is high, contractors rely on us and our trucks to turn up on time. “If the rivers flood and the roads are cut off [like during the 2019 QLD floods] or something out of our control, that’s one thing, but we’re responsible for everything that’s in our control. It’s our job to make sure we always deliver the fuel on time.”

Daimler announces sale of major Sydney dealership

DAIMLER Truck and Bus (DTB) has announced the sale of its Huntingwood dealership to Velocity Vehicle Group. The sale comes after DTB divested dealership operations at Laverton in 2016 and Somerton last year and represents its exit of the own-retail sector. Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific President and CEO, Daniel Whitehead, says the Huntingwood sale is good news for Daimler customers. “Moving away from own retail allows for a singular focus on providing Daimler Truck and Bus customers the best truck and bus solutions across all segments,” he said. “Selling and servicing

commercial vehicles is the speciality of our dedicated truck dealer partners, so it makes sense for them to provide our channel to market and to offer industry leading support for our customers.” DTB Australia Pacific Aftersales and Network Operations Director, Greg Lovrich, says Daimler Trucks Huntingwood has been a strong performer throughout the years and is currently the highest volume Daimler dealership in Australia. “Daimler Trucks Huntingwood has been one of our best performing dealerships, a multi award-winner with a wealth of experience from spare parts and service through to the showroom floor,” he said.

Daimler says it will be business as usual for customers at the Huntingwood dealership under the stewardship of Velocity Vehicle Group.

“We want to thank the employees for their commitment and wish them continued success under the stew-

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Australian network will only sell and service commercial vehicles, with a firm focus on truck and bus custom-

ers and exclusively represent Daimler brands Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner and Fuso.

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20 NEWS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Centurion fined $200,000 for tyre failure fatality

CENTURION Transport has spoken for the first time publicly about the tyre accident that resulted in the tragic death of a 66-year-old truckie in 2019. The company was recently sentenced in the Wynnum Magistrates Court for a breach of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and fined $200,000, although a conviction wasn’t recorded. “The death of our employee at the Port of Brisbane was a tragedy that was felt deeply by our colleague’s family and everyone at Centurion Transport,” a spokesperson told our sister publication Australian Transport News. The tyre, which was relatively new, having been in circulation for less than one year, unexpectedly failed during inflation, said Centurion. An independent expert engaged by Worksafe Queensland concluded that the tyre had a manufacturing defect which made the tyre susceptible to premature failure. Centurion had an arrangement with a service provider for tyre fitting services such as tyre inflation so that Centurion employees would not have to perform this work themselves. However, Centurion accepts that deficiencies arose in the implementation of its safety systems as well as clear directions to employees not to undertake their own tyre inflation. The investigation by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland identified a tear of approximately 12.5cm in the wall of a tyre on the dolly trailer. An expert determined the tear was caused by a ‘zipper failure’, describing a tear of all the components in the sidewall of the steel cord radial ply truck tyre. A zipper failure causes the instantaneous release of stored energy. The expert found that

Centurion accepts that deficiencies arose in the implementation of its safety systems as well as clear directions to employees not to undertake their own tyre inflation.

the tyre’s steel body ply cords were contaminated during manufacturing, which led to corrosion and contributed to its failure. The investigation also determined the inflation equipment did not have a clip-on valve nozzle, which would have allowed the worker to inflate the tyre from a safe distance. The absence of that device, and the consequent proximity of the worker to the tyre, exposed the worker to a risk of death or serious injury when the tyre failed. The investigation by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland also found that the defendant failed to provide a safe work method for inflating tyres. Although the defendant

had a third-party service agreement to maintain the truck tyres, tyre pressures were only checked sporadically. Several workers attempted to inflate tyres using their own equipment, which the defendant failed to prohibit. In sentencing, Magistrate Sarra considered that the defendant company accepted responsibility by pleading guilty and by implementing control measures to address the risks of tyre inflation. These measures included requiring workers to inflate tyres using a long hose with a clip-on valve nozzle and removing them from the vicinity of a tyre to guard against the risk in the event of an explosion. His Honour said the legis-

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lative framework encouraged preventive measures, including regular risk assessments, to avoid serious injuries and deaths at workplaces, and noted that companies bear a heavy onus to ensure that safe systems are in place. Magistrate Sarra accepted the prosecution’s submission that the worker’s death could have been avoided if proper procedures had been implemented. He also said that those measures were inexpensive and only mildly inconvenient. In mitigation, the Magistrate noted the defendant’s cooperation with the investigation, remorse, implementation of post-incident control measures, lack of prior offending and early guilty plea.

Centurion’s position remains that all tyre repairs and inflation should not be undertaken by employees unless absolutely necessary. Furthermore, Centurion has taken significant steps to address any deficiencies in its safety systems and to mitigate the risk of any further tyre related incidents occurring. In particular: - S hortly after the incident Centurion issued a company-wide directive to immediately cease all tyre inflation activities on the brand of tyre in question. - Centurion completed a full recall of these tyres (more than 3000) within one month of the incident and no longer procures the rel-

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evant brand of tyres for its heavy haulage fleet. - M ultiple Safe Work Procedures were developed to describe the necessary steps and controls to undertake changing and inflation of tyres across the business. - All heavy haulage drivers and workers were trained in these Safe Work Procedures by a certified training assessor. - All heavy haulage drivers are now provided with tyre inflation kits and protective equipment to aid in safety performing these tasks. “These steps demonstrate Centurion’s approach to the safety of its employees, customers and the public,” a spokesperson concluded.

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22 COVER STORY

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Inspirational truckie defies the odds to realise dream

LYNDAL Denny is in awe of her fellow truckie Candice Lureman, who along with Denny co-founded the highly-acclaimed Women in Trucking Australia movement. Not only does Lureman run “rings around her” when it comes to all things trucking, Denny says Australia’s only profoundly deaf female road train driver has an inner-strength and determination that is second-to-none. “Discrimination and ignorance have seen her overlooked time-and-time again, but I’d actually put her in the top 40 per cent of drivers out there. She’s just THAT good,” said Denny who trained and worked with Lureman in the Pilbara in 2013. Today, the tireless campaigner for diversity in the road transport sector is also the star of a new short film Breaking the Sound Barrier, a category favourite at the Focus on Ability Film Festival, which aims to promote awareness of the ability of people with a disability. To commemorate its release, we fired off a few questions to Lureman to find out more about how she got involved, and to learn more about the many challenges she’s overcome in her career. Congratulations on the new film. How did the opportunity come about? Women in Trucking Australia (WiTA) has worked with award winning film and production agency, Beyond Content in Adelaide on two NHVR funded heavy vehicle road safety campaigns. Lyndal Denny (WiTA CEO) approached production manager Chloe Gardner re the possibility of getting the Beyond Content crew behind the production of a short film for the festival.

to the hospital for blood tests. The result came back negative. No one apologised. What drives you to overcome attitudes like that? My dream to become a truck driver keeps me going. I believe anything is possible with commitment, heart and soul. I want young girls to look at trucks and have a personal relationship with them. I tell them to keep going – to never give up and to never stop dreaming. It is very rare for women with disabilities to get work driving trucks. I hope to see other disadvantage females follow in my footsteps. I know working in dominated trucking was going to be a bit daunting, but I’ve always had a positive attitude and believed if you have a passion for something then you can achieve whatever you want with right attitude, anything is possible. Stay humble and be kind. I’ve also learned that a friendly smile can go a long way.

The courageous Candice Lureman says her dream to be a truck driver keeps her going.

They stepped up to work with me at no cost. They’re the special people that change lives, lift people up, and makes the world a better place. The message here is that employers need to focus on abilities - not disabilities. I would like to thank every single person who has ever been unkind to me. You taught me to be even kinder to others and to use my experience as a deaf female to drive attitudinal change around true diversity in the road transport sector. It cannot have been easy with so many barriers in the way At one particular place of employment, I was continually allocated the oldest truck in

the fleet. When another driver’s truck broke down, my truck was given to that driver and I was put to work in the yard doing bins, cleaning up and repairing pallets. Even though I had my forklift ticket, I was not allowed the luxury of loading the trucks - a coveted job not one of the operators would swap to pick up rubbish around the yard. The day came when all the drivers except me - attended in Driving Operations and Warehousing operations. I was the only driver left out. Despite the fact my work was always of a high standard, more salt was rubbed into my one wounds when a new male trainee started work and was given one-on-

On the set of the new festival film. Inset: Scan the QR code to watch Breaking the Sound Barrier.

one training and assistance. My request for the same level of training was ignored with the manager instead asking me to go pick up cigarette butts, tasking me with the job of making sure the smoking area was kept clean. I received a warning letter. The letter said that a deaf woman is not suitable person to drive a truck. This is the same company who I spoke about in my short film. Management didn’t ask if they could nominate me for an award, they didn’t tell me I’d been nominated or that I was a finalist and they didn’t invite me to the awards dinner. The GM accepted my award on my behalf and left it on the food table at the BBQ.

When I questioned them as to why they’d not invited me to the awards evening, management told me it was a “last minute” thing and they didn’t know I was a finalist. I then discovered they’d put stories about their culture of diversity and inclusion on the company Facebook page with details of my award and a photo of me. The award was the 2019 Road Freight NSW Transport Woman of the Year. Lyndal Denny phoned CEO Simon O’Hara and he immediately offered to fly me to Sydney to re-present my award. Wonderful man On another occasion, after work walking to my car I noticed what looked like hailstone dents all over the bonnet. I knew we hadn’t had a storm then I noticed the cars on either side if mine had no dents. Looking closely, I realised the damage was man-made and according to the local panelbeater - done with a car key. I took the photos of the damage and reported the incident. I knew the area was under CCTV surveillance and asked management to view the footage and find the perpetrator. Their response was simple - the camera wasn’t working and there was nothing they could do. I was sad and very angry at their disinterest and lack of action. On another occasion, one of the yard workers who had a brother who wanted a job driving told management I was taking drugs in the bathroom. Management called an ambulance and walked me to the ambulance in front of my colleagues. I was humiliated, angry and crying. I was also the only female driver. I went

Tell us more about the licensing rules that you have to work with OH&S is increasingly used as an argument not to employ deaf people. One example of ‘over the top’ OH&S regimes is the deaf truck driver with many years’ experience and an accident-free record, who lost his truck licence and was put on lower paid duties because of a new safety standard that required deaf truckies to pass a medical examination which disqualified anyone with a hearing loss beyond an arbitrarily imposed specific decibel level. Doctors and audiologists surely are not qualified to assess a person’s abilities to undertake a whole range of occupations. These are just some of the issues we face. Deafness is not a disease. The law was changed in 2016. I was born deaf and I’m allowed to drive a truck. People have a lot of perception about hearing aids. They think that it’s a ‘cure’. It makes you hear like a normal hearing person and because of that lack of awareness, it can be quite difficult or exhausting or just not even possible to explain to people that hearing aids are not a cure. We have to explain all the reasons or all the points behind it. And even through all that, you still can’t get that message through, which then becomes very exhausting and tiring. Hearing aids are very uncomfortable. Imagine if hearing people had to wear earphones all day every day – without hearing anything coming out of them. For me, hearing aids make sound louder but no clearer – it’s all just distracting noise. And very uncomfortable. It just becomes a bit

COVER STORY 23

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 uncomfortable. They give me headaches. Hearing aids also pick up the ‘wrong’ sounds. I absolutely hate wearing them when it’s windy or when opening the truck windows because it creates like a loud screeching sound when that wind goes into the tiny microphone. It’s very, very annoying. The other thing as well is when you are eating food, you can hear munching extra loud. And if you’re eating something crunchy, like popcorn or some crisps, then it becomes very annoying and becomes uncomfortable. So, I just take it off. Unfortunately, with an MC licence, I must wear my hearing aids or I get six demerits and a $3000 infringement ticket. What do you say to drivers who think deafness is still a barrier? Let’s work together. This barrier needs to be removed because it’s ridiculous. My lack of hearing in no way affects my ability to drive competently. People who made these comments have no knowledge of deaf life or no experience with deaf people.

Deaf people are healthier and happier because they are doing what they enjoy and they’re willing to work hard to get there so they can live their dream. You’re at Toll now. Tell us more about your role The team I work with at Toll are extremely supportive and training is provided in most cases. The drivers I work with are gold! I drive the only K200 in the fleet with a super B-double set of trailers with quad axles on both trailers that can manage up to 110 tonnes. Tell us how you got involved with WiTA and what difference the group has made to you I was the finalist for the 2019 Women in Industry ‘Excellence in Road Transport’ Awards. This night, I don’t fit in at the conference along with all the white collars. I just said, ‘enough is enough. I want to start our own female heavy vehicle driver awards’. Lyndal Denny loved this brilliant idea and two years later we did it, held the WiTA International

Women’s Day Awards. We have also just finished filming our latest round of heavy vehicle road safety ads and are set to release a report in early September to coincide with the campaign launch. I was fortunate enough to feature in one of the ads which I ‘signed’. I understand my ad is the only heavy vehicle road safety ad in the world to be signed by a deaf female truckie so I’m pretty proud of that. How does being a mum impact on your driving career? To work and parent is never about a balance, but rather a frantic juggle. I worked hard to build a career for myself in the trucking industry that I find to be rewarding and enjoyable. It’s very important for women to believe that they can have a vision. When my children look at me, I want them to see a woman who wouldn’t accept that there were limits to what she could do. I can have many roles in my life and I will give whatever it takes. One of the

Lyndal Denny with Lureman on the set of the inspirational new film.

things that kept me going is the fact I would like to be a role model to them. At times, it has been tough, we are still adjusting, and I believe we’re becoming stronger because they see that I’m happier because I’m doing what I’m called to do with my life. I’m really proud of my kids that they’ve stepped up to the plate. Everyone understands how important it is to pull their own weight.

Lureman opens up about her struggles while filming Breaking the Sound Barrier.

Any last messages? If you’re a woman considering a truck driving career do research what options are out there for you. Truck driving is not a sightseeing tour. It’s hard work. Make sure you’re doing something you love. Plus, choose a company to drive for with a proven track record of performance and safety. I’ve never had a perfect load or a perfect day, but if you’re willing to learn, be

flexible, be safe and efficient, truck driving could be the best career you ever have. It’s very important to understand how men think. You do know you can ask questions during training. It’s your job to learn how to do your job right. You, and only you are responsible for you and your training. Having the right personality is far more important. My life has been severely damaged by the bullying and discrimination experiences. But I have to forget what bullies deserve, and think about what I deserve, about what I need. When someone has tried to destroy my reputation, my income, my self-worth I need positive emotions to build myself back up again. The truckies at WiTA are great role models. They listen to their dreams, not their fears.

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24 FEATURE

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

The tale of the ‘Grey Ghost’ This 1985 International Acco 1850C was a very rare sight, even in its prime.

BY DANIELLE GULLACI FOR many years, the Grey Ghost has lurked in the shadows; doing its work in the darkness of night, out of sight and out of mind – well that was the whole idea anyway. Not to be confused with Kenworth’s famous Grey Ghost, which was the first Australian made Kenworth that rolled off the production line in 1971, this Grey Ghost kept a much lower profile. Painted in matte grey, so as not to draw any attention to itself, the Grey Ghost was built in the Shell Newport workshop in 1986 and was used as an emergency response vehicle for over 30 years. “Its job was to go around and attend accidents and incidents. It came to the rescue if a driver put the fuel in the wrong tank or if there was something wrong with a fuel tank at a service station. The Shell trained operators would pump out the fuel if there was any issue. The idea was to send it out in the middle of the night so noone would see it,” said Brendan Johnston, a former Shell employee who purchased the truck in June. He plans to donate the truck to the National Road Transport Museum and was hoping to have it in Alice Springs in time for the reunion event that took place from August 23 to 29. But due to the uncertainty of lockdowns and border closures, that couldn’t happen. “We were planning on going to Alice Springs for the event but the risks are too great. We aren’t in a red zone as we’re in regional Victoria, but if it gets declared a red zone, we may not be allowed into Alice Springs, and if we are, we may need to isolate

Though the Grey Ghost operated as an emergency response vehicle for over 30 years, it kept a very low profile.

for 14 days. We’d have to travel through three states so it’s become too hard to manage,” said Johnston. “I was only trying to get it up there for the event because it was good timing, but once everything settles, I’ll take a week off when I can and bring it up to the National Road Transport Museum then.” Throughout its working life, the truck was based in Newport, Victoria. Interestingly, despite being 36 years old, it has just under 69,000 kilometres on the clock. “Because every job was around the corner, it hardly did any kilometres. There aren’t many guys around

who can still operate the truck – but there will be a thousand drivers around to tell a story involving it turning up somewhere,” explained Johnston. “It could’ve gone to the wreckers to be stripped and make money on parts, especially because of its age, low kilometres and the rarity of these sorts of parts, but it was too significant to lose.” Aged 57, Johnston began his transport career driving grain trucks on the family farm in Victoria’s Geelong region and was driving trucks from a very young age. He started at Shell Company of Australia as a driver in the early 1990s,

steering B-doubles, and moved about different depots wherever he was needed. He was also among the drivers to operate the Grey Ghost. He eventually went on to become a driver supervisor before leaving Shell in July 2012 and starting his business VicBunkers Pty Ltd, which contracts to Shell, refuelling ships and doing fuel recovery operations around Victoria. His fleet consists of a 2012 Western Star 4800, a 1999 Kenworth K104 that he is restoring himself and a Fuso Canter 918 which is used as an emergency response vehicle. Johnston plans to eventually bring the Grey Ghost up to

Former Shell employee Brendan Johnston was among the drivers to operate the Grey Ghost and purchased the truck in June.

Alice Springs on the back of his Kenworth. Going by the number on the odometer, it might come as a surprise that the Grey Ghost only completely retired from its work in June this year. “The Grey Ghost did a job just last month. It went out to an earthmoving site where the tanker driver accidently filled all the earthmoving machinery with the wrong fuel,” he said. The Grey Ghost has quite a fascinating story to tell, but it wasn’t always destined to go down in trucking history. It attended many different truck shows, industry days and emergency response training days and exercises. Johnston says Shell originally purchased the truck to deliver demountable tanks, so when the company received it new, the truck was painted in Shell’s typical yellow and white with a grey chassis. The original registration papers are still in the glove box. “That’s what they bought it for but then they grabbed it and made it an emergency pumping truck instead. “With its new yellow and black stripes to make it look like a hazardous sign it was ready to go. The story goes that one of the Shell bosses saw it one night in all of its reflective stripes and ordered it to be painted grey – so it was painted in the chassis grey. You can still see the original colours and stripes underneath the grey. It was a mechanics’ paint job, not a truck painters’ masterpiece. It was painted in matte grey so it could sneak around in the middle of the night and no one would see it,” explained Johnston. Terry Gavalakis was one of two fourth year apprentice mechanics who built the tray and body on the truck. “Terry and his mate Marco

Fiore did all the bodywork and turned it into what it is, fitting the pump, pipework, spears, drum-lifter, stairs and the coat hooks for the Shell fire team’s helmets and clothing,” said Johnston. Gavalakis now runs Transport Preventative Maintenance in Williamstown in Melbourne’s West which services fuel trucks and tankers from across Melbourne and Victoria. He bought the truck off Shell about six years ago, before selling it to Johnston recently. “He wasn’t really using the truck and said no-one knows how to operate it anymore, so he asked, what do I do with it? With its history, it’s too good to lose – so I said, sell it to me and I’ll put it in the museum,” said Johnston. And that’s how he came to be the owner of the Grey Ghost. As the truck is still in quite good condition, Johnson says it won’t need a lot of work before it becomes a showpiece at the National Road Transport Museum – although he’s making sure it’s looking its best. “I’ll get a few jobs done and get it detailed and polished up. I’ve done a little bit of mechanical work on it too and disabled a few things so they don’t get accidently turned on or anything like that. “There are also some old stickers that I remember being on there, so I’m hoping to get those made up, including the ‘emergency response’ signage on the side. “The Grey Ghost is a sentimental old beast. It only does 80km/h and is like riding a horse, but it’s more about the sentiment of the truck than its ability on the road. Onboard it used to carry all sorts of stuff you wouldn’t normally need to use, but if there was an emergency, it was always there for support, doing its thing.”

THE BUSINESS OF SAFETY

We’re all in the business of safety. Working safely has never been more important. No matter who you are – a driver, team leader, fleet manager or CEO – we’re all in the business of safety, every day. NTI has teamed up with the NHVR as part of its Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative to bring you tips and tools at nti.com.au/better-business-hub. Our experts, alongside your industry peers, break down the important information you need to face the challenges of your role. So head online to nti.com.au/better-business-hub and make safety a priority.

NTI’s The Business of Safety is funded by the NHVR’s Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative, supported by the Australian Government. National Transport Insurance is a joint venture of the insurers Insurance Australia Limited trading as CGU Insurance ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 and AAI Limited Trading as Vero Insurance ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859 each holding a 50% share. National Transport Insurance is administered on behalf of the insurers by its manager NTI Limited ABN 84 000 746 109 AFSL 237246.

26 FEATURE

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Now you’re really cookin’!

A Wodonga metal fabricator masterminds the dream barbie for the truck-lover. BY DAVID VILE BY the time you read this, the opportunity for a unique Father’s Day gift will have passed, but if you are after something for the truck driver that has everything, perhaps a custom-built, Kenworth inspired barbecue/fire pit might fit the bill nicely. The ‘truck’ as it is referred to, is the brainchild of metal fabricator Mark Toll, who put it together in his Wodonga workshop, with the creation sporting a firepit behind the cabin and a grill/barbecue

plate mounted over the top. Toll built the truck after starting out with a few chalk lines on the floor and ‘a bit of a rough idea in his head’, having attempted a similar vehicular-based project a couple of years ago. “We built a rat-rod vehicle which we took to an event to display, and it sold even though it wasn’t actually for sale,” Toll said. “A lot of people had said I needed to build a truck so here it is. It’s functional and good to look at too.” Toll had a bit of assistance

from some connections in the transport industry, with the truck, which is largely made out of recycled steel, sporting genuine Kenworth wheel caps along with Alcoa wheels. “My father-in-law drives for Fred’s out of Shepparton, so Danny Borg from Fred’s helped out with a few bits and bobs and it went on from there - we pride ourselves on using recycled stuff. “It’s a bit of a bitser- it’s taken me two years to get it all together. I didn’t really have anything specific I based

it off, everyone tells me it resembles a Kenworth K200 so I will go with that.” While the front wheels are fixed under the cabin, the rear wheels turn making the truck manoeuvrable around the backyard and the grill plate over the fire pit is detachable. The firepit also sports the famous Kenworth ‘bug’ logo which has been plasma-cut into the sides. With the truck having been sold and on its way to its new owner in Queensland, Toll has another two on the go which will also be on their The barbie/fire pit/garden art will be the envy of your neighbours.

way to the Sunshine State. “The next two are Scanias, so they will have the logos and so forth on them. The customer in Queensland is after two different sizes. “They want to be able to sit one out the front of their new offices which should get some attention. This one here is certainly an eye-catcher.” For future production Toll is looking at refining the design but having set out to keep the low-slung ratrod style with his truck he reckons he has captured the theme pretty well. “What I will do next time is make some mudguards for it, but I like keeping the low rat-rod look about it, the ratrods usually have exposed wheels…with the next one I would probably make the front wheels turn also. “At least this one is portable; you can wheel it around and set it up out in front of the shed in the winter- time and keep it out of the way when you’re not using it.” Having completed an apprenticeship as a boiler-

The truck is the brainchild of Mark Toll, pictured with sons Seth and Memphis.

maker-sheetmetal fabricator in Wodonga, Toll worked across the northern parts of the country in the mining and construction industries before returning home to run his own operation, turning out all sorts of metal projects, including pot-belly stoves made out of brake drums among other things. With the truck having garnered plenty of attention online via Facebook and also by the steady stream of passing traffic, Toll reckons that a truck such as this would make an ideal practical gift for a truckie, or at the very least an interesting piece of garden art. He is open to orders and can turn his skills to customising to client’s requirements. “It doesn’t have to be a Kenworth. It can be made to anyone’s liking. We are only limited by the customers imagination.” For further information check out Toll’s Facebook page, Turbo’s Custom Steel Fab, or drop him a line via email Hipsi.6turbo@yahoo.com.

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28 FEATURE

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

JT’s new role with Mack kicks into high gear

The former Queensland Cowboys star got a big kick out of meeting fans of all ages at the rodeo.

I CAN’T THINK OF ANYTHING MORE AUSTRALIAN THEN ARRIVING AT THE OUTBACK RODEO, IN A MACK SUPERLINER, HEAD-TO-TOE IN MY DRIZABONE KIT. IT’S BEEN A REALLY COOL EXPERIENCE.” JONATHAN THURSTON For Jonathan Thurston, it was an honour to work with two legendary Australian brands.

RETIRED rugby league legend Jonathan Thurston joined forces with Drizabone and Mack Trucks for a unique one-off road trip from Queensland’s southeast to the Mt Isa Mines Rodeo event. The Drizabone ambassador spearheaded the collaboration arriving at Mt Isa’s renowned event in the blacked-out 685hp Mack Super-Liner much to the delight of the crowds.

Thurston, who was centre stage for the main event on Saturday, was chuffed with the opportunity to be in Mt Isa for the rodeo which brings together the best of the outback. “I’ve had an amazing few days with my first Mt Isa rodeo experience and equally loved meeting so many locals, thanks to Drizabone and Mack Trucks,” said Thurston. “I can’t think of anything

Now that’s how a Queensland Cowboy arrives at a rodeo.

more Australian then arriving at the outback rodeo, in a Mack Super- Liner, head-totoe in my Drizabone kit. It’s been a really cool experience. “It’s an honour to work with two legendary Australian brands that have such a strong presence in Queensland communities through their products and manufacturing plants.” Mack Trucks Australia’s Vice President, Tom Chapman who joined Thurston at

the event, said he was proud to have teamed up with another iconic Australian brand and come back to their proving grounds in the outback. “Mack Trucks are proudly built in Australia and are engineered and designed to meet the harsh Australian conditions,” said Chapman. “Drizabone share this mission and we have come together to Mt Isa this weekend for exactly that – to connect and give back to

our customers. “What a sight it was with Johnathan rolling into one of the most iconic outback events in a Mack Black Super-Liner, wearing his Drizabone gear and adding another layer of enjoyment to the day.” The dual branded Mack Super-Liner truck travelled northwest from Brisbane as part of the brands’ collaboration, passing through rural communities, with a final stop at Mt Isa to join the ac-

tion at the renowned rodeo event. Rodeo guests had the opportunity to meet Thurston, win Drizabone & Mack Trucks prizes and see the blacked-out Mack Super-Liner truck used on the road trip, with its new standup sleeper cab and redesigned interior, at the event. Mack Super-Liner Fast Facts • Cab Type: 36” Stand Up Sleeper • Gold Bulldog (All Mack Driveline – engine, transmission, axles) • E ngine: Mack MP10, 685hp, 2,300 lb.ft torque, 16 Litre • Transmission: MACK mDRIVE HD 13 speed, Automated Manual • Front Axle: Mack FXL 16.5 • R ear Axle: Mack 2370B • Rear Suspension: Mack Air Ride • R ims: Alcoa Dura-Black Wheels

Rodeo guests had the opportunity to meet Thurston, win Drizabone & Mack Trucks prizes and see the blacked-out Mack Super-Liner truck used on the road trip.

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30 READER RIGS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Ken Cathcart travels through Corfield in western Queensland, delivering tower crane parts to Cairns.

Tom Charlton stops to admire the views at Mackay harbour.

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!

Sam Hill and his Western Star head to a substation in Mackay.

Leigh Butcher gets loaded with gypsum in Winton, Queensland, while driving this K&M Trucking Kenworth 900 Legend.

Rhys Hayes had just loaded up with barley off a farm in Natya, Victoria when he stopped to capture this on camera.

Shaun Horspool sent in this great shot of the Kenworth T409SAR he drives, taken while delivering to Ridleys in Wasleys, SA.

Benny Geldof says this Kenworth T659 handles the 170 tonne quad with no struggle at all, as he carts gold ore in the mid-west of WA.

Brent Page sent in a shot of this three-month old Kerden Haulage T909, which he says is his pride and joy.

READER RIGS 31

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Great shot, with a rainbow in the distance. This Kenworth was ready to transport an overhead gantry crane from Melbourne to Adelaide.

Ben Priddey captured this beauty just as he finished up after a long days’ work.

Alasdair Morton enjoys the peaceful surrounds as the sun sets on Fitzroy Crossing, WA.

Tyson Carter shared this shot of the 2013 Kenworth T909 he drives, carting dirt and soil across Queensland.

Robbo Hadwiger snapped this pic of his road train south of Sandfire, WA, while heading back from Broome.

These trucks paint a colourful picture. Russell Horne took the shot in Mororo, NSW, just before sunset.

Filled with a load of eggs, Jordan Cooke stopped to admire the views at the Great Australian Bight.

While waiting for a mate to bring parts out to him, Wayne Agius took a moment to enjoy the scenery.

Robbie Bell captured this beauty after loading barley off a farm in central west NSW.

It was looking rather chilly in this shot shared by Bronson Reynolds while going up Mackenzie’s Tier in Tassie’s Central Highlands.

32 EVENTS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Konvoy 4 Kids raises $14k for Variety Queensland

‘The Green Hornet’ turns heads in its vivid green paint-job. Photos: Gotcha by Karl Photography

BY DANIELLE GULLACI THOUGH the skies may have opened up, it did little to dampen the spirits of those who took part in Konvoy 4 Kids Mackay 2021 on Sunday August 15. After a brief hiatus, with the 2020 rendition cancelled due to Covid, organisers were ecstatic that the event was able to go ahead, providing a fun-filled day for all. Each year, Konvoy raises money for Variety, the children’s charity, with the trucking community in the region coming together to raise funds for this very important cause. The QLD Variety Bash teams 69, 50 and AW409 have proudly raised over $214,000 for children in need. The teams hold many fundraising events throughout the year and their biggest event is the Konvoy 4 Kids. Variety supports kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs. Monies raised through these events go towards providing children with mobility equipment like wheelchairs, walking aids, Sunshine Coaches transport and modified vehicles. It also goes towards funding medical equipment and services

as well as technology, programs and Variety Heart Scholarships that help kids discover their talents and unlock all the joys of education and communication. This year, around 125 trucks took part in Konvoy, starting at Sarina Showgrounds and then making the approximately 40 kilometre trip along the Bruce Highway to Mackay Showgrounds, which featured rides, food vendors, market stalls and

live entertainment. “This was Konvoy’s 12th year and the event went really well and we had a great crowd. We were able to raise just under $14,100 for Variety Queensland,” said Johanna Wood, who coordinates the Konvoy alongside Madonna Stevens. “We used a slightly different part of the showgrounds under the big shed, and I think

Around 125 trucks took part in the Konvoy 4 Kids Mackay 2021.

Mount Blackwood Rural Fire Brigade join the Konvoy.

THIS WAS KONVOY’S 12TH YEAR AND THE EVENT WENT REALLY WELL AND WE HAD A GREAT CROWD. WE WERE ABLE TO RAISE JUST UNDER $14,100 FOR VARIETY QUEENSLAND.” JOHANNA WOOD

everyone liked that, especially with the rain we had over that weekend. Everyone had a great time and it was a great family day out,” she added. There were 13 trophies presented on the day. Among the awards were the Best Overall trophy which went to WMT Transport, WMT also took out Best Large Fleet, MMB Bulk Haulage took out the Best Prime Mover category, Best

Tipper went to Leon Manzelmann, Emerald Carrying Company won both the Best 2021-Current category and Best Small Fleet, while a JJ Richards Bedford took out the Pre-1980 category. With the Konvoy 4 Kids Mackay over for another year, the date is already set for next year, with the event due to take place on Sunday August 21, 2022.

34 SPONSORED CONTENT FINANCIAL SERVICES

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Combining the best of both worlds with business

DIVIDING his time between accounting and working in his family’s transport business, Trevor Stanton knows the industry, and he knows it very well. During the week, he’s an accountant. However nearly every weekend is spent undertaking maintenance on the five quad-axle tippers that make up his father’s Sydney-based fleet. From servicing, to replacing brakes and tyres, and now working towards getting his HR licence, Trevor is heavily involved in the family transport business started by his father. He’s also spent close to ten years working in accounting, completing his bachelor’s degree and his Chartered Accountants program by the age of 22. Trevor’s resume ranges from roles at start-ups to major accounting firms, but more recently, he decided to go it alone and combine his two areas of expertise – transport and accounting – to launch Stanton Advisory last year. “I often find many truckies and freight businesses aren’t properly set-up to not only minimise their tax liabilities, but also their insurance costs

and aren’t properly protecting their assets. The most surprising thing I’ve seen is that some aren’t even registered for fuel tax credits,” explained Trevor. “It’s through this that I decided to develop a specialty in freight operators – such as owner-operators and small/medium fleets – where I can deal directly with helping business owners, without the red-tape and jargon often found in larger accounting firms.” Trevor reveals his family had faced many issues with accountants in the past, because quite simply, they didn’t properly understand the business. “After seeing the mess my parents’ accounts and tax affairs were in, I soon decided their former accountant had little clue about their business. This led me to question how many accountants actually know what operating a fleet involves, or when you look at a freight operator, do they know what’s behind the financial statements?” In launching his own accounting firm, Trevor said, “I’ve always wanted to own my own accounting business and I realised that it should be focused on trucks, because that’s

I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO OWN MY OWN ACCOUNTING BUSINESS AND I REALISED THAT IT SHOULD BE FOCUSED ON TRUCKS, BECAUSE THAT’S WHERE MY FAMILY’S BREAD AND BUTTER IS...” TREVOR STANTON

where my family’s bread and butter is and what I know and can relate to. “A lot of accountants just don’t have a great understanding about trucks. My parents’ business was underclaiming their fuel tax credits; and I’ve come across many transport businesses that aren’t even registered for fuel tax credits,” he said. “Fuel tax credits is a very niche area. In past roles, I’ve worked for companies where no-one even knows what fuel tax credits are. I think many accountants are so out of touch with the transport industry. There’s definitely a gap out there between the textbook and real-world.”

Trevor Stanton (left) with Mark Fernando who is one of the drivers at the Stanton family’s transport business.

ACCOUNTANTS who specialise in Truck and Road Freight businesses Fuel Tax Credit rebates Business structuring Tax & GST planning Quarterly performance meetings

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

0468 480 234 trevor@stantonadvisory.com.au

SPONSORED CONTENT DRIVER TRAINING 37

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Understanding and learning from technology incidents YOU’RE already a good driver. If you weren’t, you wouldn’t have your job (or you wouldn’t have it for long). Why then, do fleets keep on installing more and more driver-assist technologies? It’s not because they think that they know how to drive better than you. It’s not because they don’t trust you. It’s because they want to reduce risks, improve performance and understand how to optimise operations. Managers don’t always do a great job of communicating why they’re introducing new technologies. However, it’s usually not so they can micro-manage drivers. Driver-assist technology: Here to help Technologies like electronic braking and stability systems, speed and GPS trackers and even fatigue and distraction monitors can help you become a better and safer driver. Sometimes that’s because they’ll help you avoid a crash. Or it might be to help reinforce good driving habits, like taking regular breaks, sticking to speed limits or not being distracted while driving. The key is not to take new technologies personally. When the boss installs a DMS (driver monitoring system), it’s a chance for you to learn more about managing fatigue and distraction. It may help to protect you from the worst happening if you get distracted or have a micro-sleep behind the wheel. Drivers: understand the data There’s no doubt that the best piece of safety equipment for any vehicle is a good driver behind the wheel. But that’s not to say you should be passive when it comes to driver-assist technologies. There’s plenty you can do to help: • Find out what data is being collected: This will tell you what your managers are

Driver-assist technologies can help to reduce risks, improve performance and optimise operations.

looking for. You might also be able to suggest different or better measures. • Find out how it is being used and analysed: This will tell you how the business is changing or adapting to the data. Again, you might have some thoughts about what the proper uses or changes could be. • Ask for feedback: Don’t wait for a presentation or a meeting. Get on the front foot and ask your managers how you and other drivers are performing. Use your knowledge You may need to adjust the way you drive. The typical case is where a fleet starts monitoring speed, idling time or alerts from braking or stability systems. If you get a ‘bad’ result, don’t take it as an attack. Take it as a chance to become a smoother, safer driver. Daryl Hutton, managing

director at ANC Forestry, recalls talking to a driver about their braking performance – and how the driver took the feedback to heart. “We run an average then we run the best and the worst. We have a talk to the worst performer but it’s not like we get them in and say ‘you need to improve’. “We just show them how they’re going compared to the rest of the fleet. Most of them have no idea. One driver said, ‘I’ll fix that tomorrow’ and he went out with a totally different attitude. “Now he gets out of the truck each night feeling so much fresher because he’s changed his whole driving style. “He was receptive and he’s stayed like that. It was a massive win for us and for him too.” Keep in mind that having objective data about driving behaviour is a relatively new

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thing for managers. They might not have developed their skills in interpreting the data and providing constructive feedback. If your manager isn’t great at providing feedback, can you help them understand your perspective better? What would you do differently if you took the feedback to heart? At the business level, policies around analysing data and measuring performance might also still be in flux. So don’t feel insulted or threatened if a manager comes to you with data that suggests you need to change your driving style. Take any feedback on the chin, but if you can help your manager understand the information better or explain why your measures look the way they do, the better. There could be a poorly engineered stretch of road, a long but shallow incline,

a bad traffic pattern or other factors affecting the data. Only you can provide that context, and it’ll help your boss understand what’s going on. How to get the best from your technology and your boss Transport businesses are changing all the time, and you need to change with them. Assistive and monitoring technology is here to stay; the only question is whether you resist or use them to improve your skills. Here are our suggestions on how to get the best from yourself as a driver and an employee: • Keep learning: Recognise that you can use new systems and technologies to become an even better driver. • Be positive: If you think your manager is wrong, don’t get angry, help them understand driving, and

gather the data. • Get involved: Understand what data is being gathered and how it’s being used. • Be helpful: Find out how you can help the business improve, whether by taking the lead with new technologies or simply concentrating on your driving skills.

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Rising up through challenge The new AB-triple will be used to cart sheep, goats and cattle across the country.

STARTED in 2021 by husband and wife team Andrew and Lisa Lund, Lund Livestock Transport has just taken delivery of its largest trailer set to date – an AB-triple set of stock

trailers, manufactured by Wagga based business Truck Art. As Lisa explains, the Hay based business was started quite unexpectedly. “My husband came home one day and

said he was buying a truck. He had previously worked in the earthmoving industry, driving scrapers, and my family worked on the land – but livestock transport was new for both of

The new trailers were manufactured by Wagga-based business Truck Art.

us,” she said. “Andrew has been around machinery all his life so he decided to buy a truck and get started. He bought a Western Star and towed other people’s trailers for about three months before buying our own second-hand trailers.” Within two years, the growth of the business brought about the opportunity to add a second truck into the mix, a brand new Kenworth T909. Eventually they sold the Western Star and bought a second new Kenworth T909. For Andrew and Lisa, business was going well and they ran two trucks for six years – then the drought hit and demand began to dry up, so there was a need to diversify. “We went back down to one truck and got some drop decks. With the drought, we had to be versatile. We carted anything

from machinery to hay. But now business has picked up again,” said Lisa. And that called for a brand spanking new AB-Triple set. Delivered in late August, the combination from Truck Art has 10 decks across the three trailers. It is being used to cart sheep, goats and cattle across the country. Though it’s based in south-western NSW, it travels near and far – running throughout NSW, and into Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. The company’s work (and its customers) is quite diverse, with the set-up carting into abattoirs, sales yards and doing farm to farm work. “It’s our first triple, so we’re very excited about it. With recent mass management changes, we can take road trains into Wagga now, so from a lot of our northern farms, we can go

As a sponsor for Livestock Association of Australia, we at Truck Art Livestock Trailers take our responsibility seriously. All products manufactured by Truck Art Trailers are of the highest quality, offering reliability and outstanding after sales service. Our aim at Truck Art Trailers is to assist you in growing your business by providing you with a high quality product. Nothing is standard at Truck Art Trailers. We custom build trailers to the customer needs and specifications.

TRUCK ART TRAILERS PTY LTD

THE LEADERS IN INNOVATION

• Road train ramp extension with race sides • Custom over lapping through load doors to accommodate loading and unloading over the tri dolly • Powder coated side boards that makes cleaning a breeze • Fold up goat bars on all trailers • Marine grade LED deck lights throughout the

trailers • Fold away pen dividers • Semi beamless skid plates • Custom Tool and dog boxes with Kenworth vents • Dog divider storage over skid plates in all trailers. Keeping your working dog out of the dust.

TRUCK ART TRAILERS “Going The Extra Miles” 20 Lewington St, Bomen NSW 2650 | 02 6931 9555 | truckart.com.au

straight into Wagga,” explained Lisa, who commends the service received from Truck Art. “They were flexible with how we wanted the trailers made. They had their own standard spec, but were very accommodating on how we wanted it,” she said. “We already had a tri-axle dolly we wanted to use with the set; and the load through doors is something we specifically wanted to suit our needs. Because it’s a matching outfit, we wanted to know that we could load right through without having to unhook any of the trailers. “Truck Art was great throughout the entire build process. We knew that we can ring their engineers and they could call us any time. They also sent pictures and emails to make sure everything was just how we wanted it too.”

4X2 AB TRIPLE SPECIFICATION • BPW Air bag suspension on jost 10 stud alloy rims • 2.5 Marine grade stainless steel floor and cattle deck drains • Stainless steel air operated effluent tanks on all trailers • Truck Art Trailers unique slam shut sheep deck latches to make converting the trailers to cattle mode quicker and easier • New designed non bi fold large one piece road train through load doors with extra safety block gates IMAGE: Andrew & Lisa Lund from Hay with their new custom built 4x2 AB Triple by Truck Art Trailer. All 3 trailers are custom built for road train tri dolly configuration.

AD FEATURE TRAILERS 39

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Bendix an official supporter of Planet Ark’s Seedling Bank

AN initiative of Planet Ark’s flagship campaign National Tree Day, The Seedling Bank provides funding for native seedlings to community groups and schools nationwide. As an official supporter of the Seedling Bank, Bendix is significantly extending its environmental credentials. Under the program, groups apply for funding to purchase native seedlings from local nurseries to help restore and enhance our unique Australian landscape with new native trees, scrubs and grasses across the country. Planet Ark is a leading notfor-profit environmental behaviour change organisation uniting governments, businesses, schools and individuals through positive environmental actions. Initiated in 1996, Planet Ark’s National Tree Day is Australia’s largest community tree-planting and nature care event. Planet Ark launched the Seedling Bank in 2019 to provide communities and organisations with access to native seedlings to plant as part of National Tree Day activities.

Bendix says it endorses Planet Ark’s Seedling Bank program and its efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

So far the program has awarded grants to 47 community and school groups providing them with access to 28,000 seedlings to be planted at sites across Australia. Bendix is now fully committed to the program as an official supporter. “The support we are providing to Planet Ark’s Seedling

Bank along with a host of our other internal environmental initiatives we are undertaking, is an important part of our program and further strengthens our mission as a strong environmentally conscious company,” said FMP Group (Australia) Pty Ltd (Bendix) general manager George Kyria-

kopoulos. “Planet Ark’s Seedling Bank is a program that we fully endorse in efforts to reduce carbon emissions and protect our endangered environment.” In 2019, Plant Ark’s National Tree Planting Day volunteers planted 701,000 trees across more than 2100 plant-

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ing sites nationally bringing the total number of trees planted through the program to more than 26 million since 1996. The Seedling Bank is a fantastic initiative to ensure that these numbers continue to grow. “We are thrilled to be bringing Bendix into the fold as an official supporter of Planet

Ark’s Seedling Bank program,” said National Tree Day campaign manager Simone Horder. “With their support we will continue helping Australian communities around the country get native seedlings in the ground where they are needed most.”

40 AD FEATURE TRAILERS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Providing multiple benefits to tipper operators

THE issue of bulk material clinging to the inside of a tipper and slowing down the unloading process is something common to many operators carting bulk products like fertiliser, manure, stock feed, grains and sands. In many cases the only way to get material moving is by ‘shunting’ the vehicle or manually digging out compact product at the end of a shift – both risky and time consuming. Flow-Easy vibrators are designed to speed up the unloading of bulk products, providing an efficient, safe and controlled load discharge. The vibration loosens compacted material, effectively eliminating residual build up. The vibrators provide numerous productivity and safety gains that improve driver and truck safety, lower fuel and maintenance costs and reduce wear and tear on the truck and trailer. One of the biggest safety issues for tipper operators relates to the risk of truck rollover – materials adhering to the tipper tray increase this risk. Fitting a Flow-Easy vibrator minimises this tipping risk and, typi-

cally, a lower elevation can be achieved to dispense the load. As well as being a simple, cost-effective alternative to body liners, a vibrator significantly reduces the risk of cross contamination, particularly where grains and fertiliser are being transported. Over time body liners expand and overlap creating pockets where fugitive material can become entrapped, increasing the potential for material contamination. Flow-Easy vibrators are distributed by Melbourne-based Enmin, an Australian market leader in the areas of materials handling systems and vibratory equipment. The vibrators were previously marketed under the Enmin brand but have recently been re-branded Flow-Easy. “Our industrial vibrator sales have risen significantly over the last few years becoming a key product in the Enmin range. Giving the vibrators their own individual brand name made sense from both a commercial and customer perspective,” said Enmin general manager Anthony Gallaher. “The name Flow-Easy clearly and immediately communicates what the product does

– loosening compacted bulk material and speeding up the unloading process. “In conjunction with the new brand name we are embarking on an extensive communications campaign to increase awareness of the many benefits a vibrator provides to operators of tippers and dump trucks,” Gallaher added. The range includes 12 and 24 volt electric vibrators along with hydraulic and pneumatically powered options. Some transport applications require vibration to be applied for an extended amount of time, a scenario where the design characteristics of the hydraulic and pneumatic models come into their own. If required, they can be run continuously, rather than the more generally utilised intermittent operation of the electric models. “The truck vibrators are easy to install and only require minimal modification to the trailer body, making them a simple, low-cost addition that provides a number of benefits. As companies update their truck and trailer fleet the vibrators can be removed easily and quickly from existing trail-

The range includes 12 and 24 volt electric vibrators along with hydraulic and pneumatically powered options.

ers and installed on the new units,” explained Gallaher. “Quite simply if you’re involved in transporting bulk materials a Flow-Easy vibrator will ensure you spend less time unloading, more time making money, whilst minimising WHS risks.” In addition to the truck vibrators, Enmin also has an extensive range of industrial vibrators to suit any industry that handles bulk material. The range is specifically designed to suit Australia’s environment and covers a multitude of industries such as agriculture, mining, quarrying, recycling, ports and terminals.

Flow-Easy vibrators speed up the unloading process, providing an efficient, safe and controlled load discharge.

“THE FLOW-EASY VIBRATOR HAS INCREASED MY PRODUCTIVITY AND IMPROVED SAFETY. I WOULDN’T HESITATE TO BUY ANOTHER.” JAMES FINN, FINNS CARTAGE, MELBOURNE.

A Flow-Easy vibrator speeds up the unloading of bulk materials, providing an efficient, safe and controlled load discharge. Less time unloading, more time making money. A FLOW-EASY VIBRATOR:

Eliminates carry back It’s the simple cost effective alternative to body liners Lowers fuel and maintenance costs Reduces wear and tear on the truck and trailer Allows for lower discharge elevation height, minimising the risk of roll over Improves driver and truck safety Hydraulic and pneumatic options available

T: +61 3 9800 6777

| W: floweasy.com.au

AD FEATURE TRAILERS 41

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Less stress with Hendrickson’s ZMD

FAMILY owned and operated, Armesto’s Transport was established in 1972 by Manuel and Rosemary Armesto in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Armesto’s Transport leads the way as a well-established and reputable interstate general freight business, operating out of depots located in

Beerwah and Rocklea. Owner Manuel attributes much of Armesto’s Transports success to their loyal customer base, many of whom have been with them for over a decade, some of them longer. This steady support created the opportunity for the expansion of routes from the Sunshine Coast to the

The large modern fleet of trucks and trailers runs throughout Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

east coast of Australia. Today Armesto’s Transport specialises in servicing this area travelling from Cairns to Melbourne and all the major cities in between with a large, modern fleet of trucks and trailers running throughout Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Within the large fleet, Manuel had many trailers running on Hendrickson – even more so in recent years, with the Hendrickson HXL7 wheel end being standardised in the fleet due to its low maintenance and five-year, 1.2 million kilometre

Armesto’s has two B-triples and four B-doubles running on Hendrickson’s new ZMD shockless suspension.

warranty. “I prefer to use Hendrickson because it is reliable gear with a good warranty,” said Manuel. Hendrickson’s new ZMD shockless suspension was the natural progression for the fleet so, working with Hendrickson, Armesto’s had an existing trailer with Hendrickson INTRAAX suspension converted to ZMD. The feedback from the drivers was so positive that their next set of trailers were ordered with the shockless suspension. Hendrickson Zero Maintenance Damping Tech-

nology eliminates the conventional shock absorbers by integrating the damping function into the air spring. INTRAAX ZMD paired with the HXL7 wheel end provides reduced maintenance costs and downtime, increased cargo protection and less wear on the trailers. Armesto’s now has a total of two B-triples and four B-doubles running on ZMD. With drivers reporting positively about how well they tow, and the softer ride provided, more trailers are on the way.

If you would like to know more about Hendrickson ZMD, please scan the QR code below:

Never Change a Shock Absorber Again “Shockless” air suspension technology will help you save maintenance time and money.

ZMD™

ZERO MAINTENANCE DAMPING™ Technology • Eliminates conventional shock absorbers by integrating the damping function into the air springs • Ideal for general freight applications • Reduced maintenance costs • Increased cargo protection • Suitable for GML and CML

Check out: www.SHOCKLESS-ZMD.com.au

• As the axle moves up and down pressurised air is exchanged between the bellows and the piston, meaning there are no moving parts or hydraulic fluid • Uniform suspension damping over the life of the air spring

www.hendrickson.com.au For more information, email: sales@hendrickson.com.au Actual product performance may vary depending upon vehicle configuration, operation, service and other factors.

42 AD FEATURE TRAILERS

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Loadmass tips scales in operator’s favour

LOADMASS has recently gained TCA Smart On-board mass (OBM) Category B Type Approval.

LOADMASS, a leader in the supply and installation of on-board truck scales to the Australian truck market, has recently gained Transport Certification Australia (TCA), Smart On-board mass (OBM) Category B Type Approval. This has been gained using the LM300 Can-Coder Scale System developed and tested in Australia in conjunction with the manufacturer of the Loadman product in the US. The Category B approval confirms the robust design of the Loadman product as it has met all stringent testing requirements set by TCA for both hardware and software. Loadmass can also boast that it was the first on-board scale company in Australia to receive TCA Category A type approval. The OBM Type Approval allows Loadmass to provide its customers seeking higher mass limits access to a scale system that is digitally connected to Smart OMB systems allowing not only the recording of the load, but also offers other safety and regulatory information for compliance purposes. On its website, VicRoads reminds operators that they

have until November 1 to install type approved smart OBM systems to their HPFVs. After this date, vehicles without smart OBM will not have access to the HPFV network. “It is very important for operators of HPFVs to be aware of these changes and not be caught out when the November deadline is upon them and they do not have a complying system fitted.” Road access arrangements for higher mass, such as those relating to Performance Based Standards and High Productivity Vehicles may also require mass data information to be collected using a Smart OBM system. The Loadman LM300 system’s approval means its product is ideal for its customers who will benefit from the productivity gains available. The ROI (return on investment) will come back to the truck operator in a very short time. Loadmass has been steadily gearing up for the regulatory changes that are now in force. The company is the only OBM supplier of Category B scales that are compatible with most of the certified Application Service Providers that

support the OBM system. This gives Loadmass customers more options when choosing a telematics supplier. Loadmass already has its products in service with a number of the larger fleet operators throughout Australia. The LM300 system is proving it can stand up to these rugged conditions without missing a beat. Just another reason to use Loadmass as your on-board mass supplier. Loadmass is also the distributer for the Airtec range of on-board scales which have recently received TCA Category B Type Approval. The Airtec product is primarily suited to air suspension, where the Loadman LM300 system can be used in both air and some spring suspension systems. Loadmass can give its customers the choice of two Category B approved products. As well as the TCA Type Approved products, Loadmass has developed its own LMA range of products specifically designed for the rigid truck and commercial vehicles markets in Australia. The LMA systems are suitable in both air and spring suspension applications in these market sectors.

ON-BOARD SCALE SYSTEMS FOR PBS APPLICATIONS

Why Australia’s leading fleets choose TRAIL-LINK AUSTRALIAN truck drivers have largely been connecting trailers to trucks using the same old nylon suzi air and screw-on electrical coils since WWII. It’s no wonder they keep coming up against the same sorts of challenges. Words can hardly describe the frustration felt by a driver when connecting an electrical coil – only to find a pin has been pushed back, or a conductor has shorted, leaving them in the dark. And the cost of a roadside fix can end up amounting thousands of dollars. But there is a solution. TRAIL-LINK has been helping drivers prevent these (often pricey) failures time and time again. And many transport operators are taking notice – as evidenced by the high uptake by some of Australia’s largest fleets. TRAIL-LINK has been supplying its products to companies such as Toll, Linfox, Ron Finemore Transport, Nolan’s Transport, Aldi and Roadmaster, to name a few. But it’s not just users in the aftermarket sector that are benefitting from TRAILLINK. The products are tested and certified for fitment as original equipment (OE) to Mercedes-Benz, Vawdrey Trailers and Haulmark Trailers, amongst a growing number of manufacturers. TRAIL-LINK’s solution is undoubtedly different. The question remains – how? The company answers in four simple words: “it’s just made better!” The concept behind why TRAIL-LINK creates its products the way it does is simple: if it’s best practice for plugs on all of our electrical appliances, then it’s got to be best practice for our trucks too. Sealed and protected plugs eliminate almost all of the issues associated with problematic electrical cables: plug pulloff, conductor shorts, pin push backs, snapping and cracking open. Fully moulded plugs on the end of cables prevent the most common reasons why fittings need to be replaced in the first place. Modern developments in thermoplastics, specifical-

Sealed and protected plugs eliminate almost all of the problems associated with problematic electrical cables.

TRAIL-LINK supplies its products to some of Australia’s largest fleets.

ly polyurethane, has allowed TRAIL-LINK to create an unsurpassable anti-kink, abrasive resistant, highly UV resistant air coil with great retentive memory. Gone are the issues with fading, splitting and snapping airlines that sag and drag behind the prime mover. And with it, roadside call outs for service replacements of continuously failing air lines are eliminated. Polyurethane jackets in the electrical and EBS range provide the same abrasive resistance and anti-sag qualities as the air range. TRAIL-LINK is committed to making its products available across Australia and New Zealand, through reputable and reliable networks of

dealers. It has many loyal and excellent independent resellers and welcomes new dealers to get in touch if they are interested in stocking the range. TRAIL-LINK has worked closely with the Volvo Group Australia, Daimler Truck and Bus and PACCAR/Kenworth to list as many parts as possible for access by branches, dealers, sub-dealers and pre-delivery. The national network remains broad and is continually growing, strongly supported by national dealerships that stock TRAIL-LINK, including CMV, Cooldrive, MaxiPARTS and Baxters. For more information, please call 03 9886 9004 or visit trail-link.com.au.

PROUDLY MANUFACTURED AND BUILT IN SOUTH AUSTRALIA SINCE 1986

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Corbet’s Group keep it red, white and Dura-Bright

WHEN the Corbet’s Group name is mentioned, an immaculately presented fleet of trucks and trailers is what comes to mind for many, however its much more than just a trucking company. Based in Gympie, the family business started primarily in the logging and sawmill industry in the 1970s. Today there are ten family members actively working at the company, as well as over 300 employees. Corbet’s Group operates in many industries, running a modern fleet of over 120 prime movers with a wide range of trailing equipment across the diverse range of industries it operates in – including heavy haulage, cattle, fuel, aggregate, concrete, log and bulk commodity transport. Andrew ‘Aussie’ Corbet, now general manager of Corbet’s Group, recalls fondly working in the bush with his grandfather and father as a kid. “There was never a dull moment working with the old man, we all worked hard and respected the bush and the equipment. We had to get on and do the job,” he said. “My granddad and dad taught us kids the value of well-maintained equipment back then and this respect for the equipment we need for

Dura-Bright surface treatment is available across the Alcoa range of wheels to fit a variety of trailer types. The patented technology significantly reduces maintenance and labour and time costs.

our line of work is still being taught today to our kids.” This pride in customer service and in the upkeep of their modern fleet is evident in the choice to rely on Alcoa wheels for over 15 years, and to now spec Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels as standard. According to Andrew, they present well, and suit the tough, remote environments the equipment works, along

with adding value to the fleet. “Downtime costs money and results in disappointed customers,” said Andrew. “Our equipment must be reliable and must be able to withstand the tough environments we work in, from timber plantations to outback properties to busy highways, we trust our Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels because they never let us down.” Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels

Due to their durability, Alcoa Dura-Bright wheels are specced as standard across the Corbet’s Group fleet.

are an innovation that no competing wheel has been able to provide a competitive answer to because it is a surface treatment and not a coating. The patented surface treatment penetrates the surface of the aluminium to form one composite that becomes an integral part of the wheel – so cracking, corrosion and fili-

Corbet’s Group works in various conditions, from timber plantations to outback properties and busy highways.

form can’t get underneath as is seen with acrylic and other coatings. According to Michael Nichols, national sales manager for Howmet Wheel Systems, the distributor of Alcoa Wheels in Australia, “Dura-Bright EVO wheels are Alcoa’s easiest-to-maintain wheels. They can stand up against the harshest weather, road grime and cleaning agents that are known to corrode and dull standard commercial truck, trailer and bus wheels.” It also offers up to three times more resistance to chemicals, including hydrofluoric acid found in the toughest truck wash cleaning agents, and with the ability to be cleaned in a ph environment 2-12, they stay shiny with regular truck cleaning products and even just soap and water – even after hundreds of washes and thousands of kilometres. This, and Dura-Bright wheels’ consistent shine without the need to polish are just

Never balance your wheels again!

Centramatic explained

tyre life up to 35%+ • Increase vibration • Reduce Reduce • Smoothertyreridecupping wear • Tyres run cooler: 5 - 10% • Extend suspension life • Environmentally friendly US, Centramatic balancers are available for European and large Japanese trucks •

CIRCULAR TUBE DURAMETAL SPHERES OUT-OF- BALANCE POINT IN DAMPING FLUID

The Centramatic on-board balancing system is a patented harmonic device. The balancer uses centrifugal force and to automatically distribute balancing media precisely where needed to remove imbalance. The balancer consists of a mounting plate and circular tube, with small Durametal spheres and damping making up the balancing media.

Automatically balances your wheels while you drive

two of their very attractive prospects for large fleets where well-presented equipment mean maintenance labour and time costs can be considerable. Alcoa Dura-Bright is available across most of the Alcoa wheel range, which means the premium benefits they are known for are not compromised: • Their light weight (increased payload, better fuel efficiency); • Their unmatched strength (proprietary MagnaForce alloy is exclusive to Alcoa wheels and is 17 per cent stronger than any other alloy in the industry); • Their improved heat dissipation results in extended tyre and brake life. “It’s really great to hear from the public compliments on our fleet and to be known in the industry as a company that has well maintained and well-presented equipment. It really makes all the hard work our team puts in worth it,” added Andrew.

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Unbalanced wheel Balancing weights move automatically opposite out-ofbalance point while balancing the wheel.

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Balanced wheel Evenly distributed spheres show an already balanced wheel.

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Premium finish wheels that are stylish and affordable

NO matter how far or wide you travel or what terrain you tackle, it’s important to have peace of mind that your trucks and trailers are kitted out with the best possible parts that not only look ‘next level’ but have the grit to stand the test of time. Aussie roads are harsh and unforgiving, and the wheels on your rig are one part that cops the brunt of it. Finding wheels that are not only visually striking, but hardy, resilient and dependable can be tricky, especially if you don’t want to break the bank. Enter Armoury Wheels – premium alloy wheels made from the highest quality materials that are the triple threat: stylish, durable and affordable. Armoury Wheels have alloys to suit every trailer size, make or application. From plant and equipment trailers to heavy haulage, line-haul trailers and tippers. If you want to elevate your truck to legendary status and turn heads, Armoury’s high load-rated wheels have the shine and strength to do so. Armoury Wheels has launched a new premium fin-

ArmourBrite can reduce the cleaning time of your wheels by up to 90 per cent.

Armoury Wheels offers premium alloy wheels that are stylish, durable and affordable.

ish that is taking the Australian trucking scene by storm. ArmourBrite is a next-generation, premium surface finish

designed for trucks and trailers that work hard, play hard and want to look good doing it. The beauty of this finish is

that it has a blinding shine you don’t need to keep polishing, combined with outstanding durability and protection. ArmourBrite can reduce the cleaning time of your wheels by up to 90 per cent. If you want eyes glued to your rig on every road you roll down, then look no further. When purchasing a new trailer, Armoury can coordinate with your dealer directly from the outset to customise your new purchase. The process is easy and no-fuss;

you just specify to your dealer what Armoury wheels you want, and your chosen finish (e.g. ArmourBrite), and the rest is taken care of. Armoury will deliver the wheels directly so they are fitted before your new trailer hits the road for its maiden voyage. Armoury understands that there’s a lot to consider when choosing a new trailer, and that it’s a significant investment, so having the right wheels makes a big difference; not only in maximising the look of this in-

vestment but also in ensuring reliability for years to come. ArmourBrite is just another example of Armoury Wheels’ passion for trucks and dedication to its people. When customers wanted more alloy alternatives, the highest quality materials and reasonable prices, Armoury answered by creating ArmourBrite. Transform your fleet into “legends on the road” with Armoury Wheels today – visit armourywheels.com.au or call 1300 005 576.

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BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Game-changing fifth wheel

BEGGS Bulk, based in Mildura, hauls stock feed from Victoria and South Australia to cattle feedlots in Queensland and beyond. Ken Beggs’ operation runs regular round trips of up to nearly 3000km and he has made a career of staying ahead of the competition by investing in leading-edge road transport equipment. About 12 months ago he purchased a road train set of Titan Thinwall walking floor trailers which were imported from Canada, now with another two on order. Supporting these assets to the business, Beggs has also invested in the latest fifth wheel from SAF-Holland to be fitted to his road train dolly. This kingpin feature SAF-Holland’s Eli-te (Electronic Lock Inspection – technology enhanced) Fifth Wheel Coupling Assistant, as the name implies, assists the driver with managing the coupling procedure via modern dash mounted systems. “When I first turn the ignition on, I can see a red light which is mounted on the front right-hand side of the dolly,” Beggs said – adding there are another two red lights mounted under the turntable, one on each side. “If it is flashing red then I know the pin has been released. If it is not flashing

Ken Beggs has also invested in the latest fifth wheel from SAF-Holland to be fitted to his road train dolly.

then I have some reassurance that the pin is still locked. However, this doesn’t stop me from checking the locking clamps up close. “When the switch for the air operated lever is activated, the red light will flash giving a visual indication that it is

ready to pull the dolly out from under the tag trailer.” The Eli-te Fifth Wheel Coupling Assistant, according to Beggs, helps to eliminate muscle strain as the simple act of flicking switch negates the need to use brute force to pull the lever to re-

lease the pin. “I’m in my late 60s now and I’m just not as strong as I once was,” Beggs said. “It also eliminates the need to get back in the truck and reverse back into the trailer to release pressure that sometimes prevents you from

pulling the lever. “It is such a simple system. It is just an air operated ram that pushes on the release arm.” As for challenges associated with coupling connections and preventing trailer drops, SAF-Holland’s innovation

provides another level of reassurance for the operator that the pin has been locked in place. “The jaws on the turntable are illuminated by a bright white LED which helps you see that the jaws are locked around the pin,” he says. “I had an experience once where I had done the usual couple of tug tests, made the visual check to see that the jaws were locked in, yet the trailer came unhooked. If the red light is not flashing then you can be sure that the jaws have completely locked around the pin.” So impressed with his experience with the latest SAF-Holland fifth wheel set-up, Beggs is preparing a similar combination for his son who recently joined the business. “I am more than impressed with the reassurance the lights give you that the pin is safely locked in,” Beggs said. “The simple process of turning a switch instead of lugging on the lever has taken all the strain off my arm and shoulder. I’m so impressed with the system that I am fitting it to a new prime mover and dolly which will soon be in operation.” For more information, contact 1300 131 613 or visit safholland.com.au.

Easily Retrofit to the Popular HOLLAND FW351E & FW331 Fifth Wheel FLASHING RED WARNING LED LIGHTS FOR FAILED COUPLING ATTEMPT

FAILED COUPLING – In the case of a failed coupling attempt, bright red ﬂashing LED lights assist the driver to quickly recognize a potentially costly mistake.

HIGH INTENSITY WHITE LED LIGHTS FOR SUCCESSFUL COUPLING ATTEMPT

The HOLLAND ELI-te™ Fifth Wheel Coupling Assistant helps drivers GET IT RIGHT!

SUCCESSFUL COUPLING – A successful couple triggers highintensity white LED lights, strategically aimed at the kingpin and lock for enhanced visibility during the inspection process, especially in poor weather and low-light conditions.

Robust electrical components: sealed one-piece harness, long-life LED lights, durable inductive sensors, and steel encased logic module ensure reliable operation in the toughest conditions.

SAF-HOLLAND (Aust.) Pty. Ltd ABN: 79004371215 | Sales: 1300 131 613 Email: sales@safholland.com.au

www.safholland.com.au

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Product support at JOST that’s second to none

BULK Transport Equipment (BTE) has relied on JOST for Hidromas hoists, Rockinger couplings, wheel rims, landing legs and turntables for over 15 years. Supreme product quality, according to the trailer and specialised equipment manufacturer, is equally matched by outstanding service and support. BTE produces a wide variety of top-shelf bodies and trailers including truck and dog through to road train combinations. The company, which has manufacturing facilities in Melbourne and Toowoomba, needed a supply partner that could furnish it with similarly high-end products that would go the distance in the harsh environments many of its trailers operate in. According to Scott Arnold, operations manager at BTE Toowoomba, BTE has received sterling service from

JOST over the years, which in turn has enabled the company to provide customers with the best possible solutions for their trailer needs. “Service and quality are the two most important things in our industry and for our business JOST consistently ticks both those boxes,” Arnold said. “We have very good relationships with the people at JOST, which is another vital factor in the service we receive from the company.” Arnold explains that both BTE branches are very well served by JOST area sales managers. “In Queensland we deal with Jason Green and our branch in Victoria deals with Corey Povey – both of whom are very knowledgeable with the JOST products and how they fit in with our business,” Arnold said. Expanding further on the reliability of the JOST

components, Arnold mentions that Hidromas hoists and JOST aluminium rims are products that need to be particularly durable in tipper applications. “These are two components in our industry that really take a pounding,” Arnold said, adding that reliability of supply from JOST is outstanding. “We have seen a considerable spike in demand for new trailers due to the government incentives since Covid hit, along with several very good seasons for the grain growers. In spite of the increased demand, JOST has managed to maintain the supply to match our needs which has meant we haven’t needed to look anywhere else for our components.” Arnold says JOST products are competitively priced compared to other brands, with customers receiving a great product at a reasonable price.

Quality and service have kept BTE coming back to JOST for its hoists, couplings, wheel rims, landing legs, turntables and more, for over 15 years.

BTE produces a wide range of bodies and trailers, from truck and dog through to road train combinations.

JOST’s well mount cylinders have strokes ranging from 2470mm to 8675mm with capacities from 18 to 60 tonnes. They come standard with all stage chroming, extended tube overlap and spherical clevis bushes. They operate efficiently at Australian industry standard 135bar (2000psi) and are covered by a two-year nationwide warranty. Also a popular choice on BTE trailers are JOST premium forged alloy wheels which are manufactured to exacting standards to suit Australian conditions. According to JOST, its strong and durable forged alloy wheels are around half the weight of an equivalent 22.5 x 8.25 steel disc wheel which amounts to a useful increase in payload capacity of a trailer or combination of trailers. The lower unsprung

weight also provides a smoother ride with reduced tyre wear and improved fuel economy. JOST alloy wheels come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and are available with either a machined or polished surface finish. The range of Rockinger tow couplings supplied by JOST provide a reliable and durable connection for trailers and dollies. A well-proven item is the RO 56E 50mm fully automatic trailer coupling which is suitable for heavy-duty onand off-highway applications including road trains. It has a weight of 80kg and a D-Value rating of 314kN. RAZOR power tarp and powered landing leg systems are other popular components in the extensive JOST portfolio. These units are designed to reduce the like-

lihood of workplace injuries that can be caused by manually operated tarps and legs. JOST’s double-row ballrace KLK DR series is used by BTE with its semi-tippers and dog trailers. It is available in drilled or undrilled for chassis widths of 1000, 1100 or 1200mm. The design principle ensures maximum reliability and strength because the active axial and radial forces are distributed between the two ball races which are permanently protected against dirt and dust by a multi-lip seal. Arnold says the three key elements of reliability, service and quality are inherent in the JOST range of products, which means BTE can focus on manufacturing its high quality trailers, safe in the knowledge that the JOST components fitted to them are more than up to the task.

YOUR TRANSPORT MANUFACTURING SPECIALIST 5 Year Structural Chassis Warranty

12-16 Fowler Road Dandenong South, Victoria 3175

38-40 Carrington Road, Toowoomba, Queensland 4352

Email: alan@bte.net.au

Email: scotta@bte.net.au

Phone: (03) 9794 0330

Phone: 0427 502 881

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How quick gain can result in maximum pain

CHANGING the ride height on your truck or trailer air suspension might be a quick fix for a driveline angle issue or reaching a certain kingpin height on a trailer; but unfortunately, these quick fix changes will eventually lead to some expensive headaches in the future. Over the past 38 years Powerdown has had many calls about suspension related issues. One of the most

common is related to the ride height of rear air or trailer suspensions that have been adjusted above the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) recommendations. This change in ride height can cause damage to your suspension equipment. A shock absorber is primarily designed to operate in the midpoint of the extended and compressed length of the unit.

Powerdown’s exclusive ride height indicator is colour-coded so shock absorbers can easily be checked to ensure optimum performance.

Shock absorber at the midpoint of the stroke: By increasing the ride height of the suspension, the suspension droop is reduced which limits the downwards travel available in the shock absorber. This dramatically increases the likelihood of the damper topping out when the suspension articulates. The piston will effectively hit the top guide of the shock absorber, causing fatigue issues in the design. A re-coil cut off or rebound stop will limit some of the damage in the short term, but this feature is not designed for continual topping out of the unit. This will also lead to premature bush failure and other related end fitting damage. Shock absorber above ride height and shock absorber below ride height: Eventually over time the shock absorber will most likely leak oil due to internal damage from the constant impact. In extreme cases the life of the shock absorber can be reduced by 80 per cent of its normal service life. Short stroke shock absorbers on trailers and some rear

drive air suspensions are more susceptible than others.

Powerdown’s exclusive ride height indicator In an industry first, Powerdown has released a select range of shock absorbers with a recommended ride height indicator. Designed to show where the shock absorber is operating in terms of stroke when the shock absorber is fitted to the vehicle. The indicator is strategically placed on the body of the shock absorber to indicate shock absorber stroke relative to vehicle ride height. If the dust shield edge is in the green zone then the vehicle ride height is correct. This is where optimum performance of the shock absorber is achieved. If the dust shield edge is in the amber/yellow zone (on either the top or bottom end) the ride height should be checked. In this position the stroke of the shock absorber is starting to stray outside of the optimal performance zone. If the dust shield edge is in the red zone (on either

Shock absorbers at different ride heights.

the top or bottom end) the ride height is way off. This indicates that the likelihood of the shock absorber topping out or bottoming out is highly increased over time.

This may also mean that the wrong shock for the application has been fitted. For more information contact Powerdown on 02 4949 0000 or visit powerdown.com.au

Technology / Innovation / Safety

JOST wins 2 major industry awards for its new JSK42-ASW fifth wheel JOST Australia has been awarded two prestigious Industry Awards for its innovative JSK42-ASW fifth wheel coupling that combines pneumatic air release, sensor and low maintenance technologies. The JSK42-ASW uses innovative technology to improve operator safety and reduce the likelihood of a trailer dropping by accident.

“Our thanks to the Heavy Vehicle Industry Association (HVIA) and the Australian Freight Industry Awards (AFIA) for their recognition.”

SENSOR SYSTEM CLEAR INDICATION OF COUPLING STATUS SHOWN IN THE CABIN PNEUMATIC AUTOMATION REDUCES BACK STRAIN LOW MAINTENANCE EXTENDED SERVICE INTERVALS ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

www.jostaustralia.com.au

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How going digital enhances driver health and safety

BUSINESSES across the transport and logistics industries are all too familiar with the burdens of having to manage stacks of paperwork. Making the leap from a paper-based workforce to a digital one isn’t just great for streamlining all that internal admin. Advancements in technology are helping drivers to better manage their everyday lives, but also in important areas like fatigue, to ensure compliance and improve health and safety while out on the job. Here’s how. Self-managing fatigue Long hours on the road take their toll on your wellbeing. Without effectively managing your working hours, you risk endangering your life and the lives of other road users. But of course, this is easier said than done when you have deadlines to meet – not to mention the complexity of fatigue rulesets. Businesses that ditch outdated logbooks for electronic work diaries (EWDs) make this simpler for everyone. You don’t need to worry about capturing the wrong information – your work and rest times are

recorded with a few simple taps; with all the information you need to know displayed and calculated in real-time on the device. You know your body and when you’re tired, but in the eyes of the law, you’re required to take rest breaks based on your working hours. These in-cabin devices compare your hours against fatigue rulesets, alerting you when it’s time to pull over and rest. The data also makes it clear what jobs you can safely take on without risking fatigue non-compliance. Not only does this ensure the safety of you and those around you, but EWDs enable you to effectively, and safely, self-manage your working hours.

Multi-camera solutions Unfortunately, no matter how much experience behind the wheel you have, other road users, weather and road conditions can be unpredictable. If you’re involved in a collision, it’s vital that you have all the information you need to protect you – not just in terms of safety, but to back up your

multi-camera solutions help to protect your mental wellbeing.

Switching from paper-based to digital streamlines admin and can help drivers better manage their everyday lives, including fatigue.

story and preventing falsified claims. A smart, multi-camera solution installed around your truck is designed to keep drivers safe from potential legal

and compliance dramas. They capture a complete 360-degree view of the vehicle, as well as finer details like license plates. If an incident is caused by another road user, the busi-

ness can immediately refer back to the high-definition footage to see who is at fault. Not only does this help from a legal standpoint, but by exonerating drivers of any guilt,

In-cabin panic buttons Australia is a vast, sprawling landscape. Drivers across various industries are well acquainted with working in remote areas, and the risks that this creates. Without the right equipment at your disposal, if you were to have an incident, it could take hours or even days for back-office staff to become aware of the situation. By having your vehicle fitted with an in-cabin panic button, you can instantly notify staff of an incident. Paired with advanced telematics that feature gyroscope rotation sensors, in the case of a rollover, the sensors will pick this up and alert staff that immediate action is required. Under the Workplace Health and Safety Act, employers have a duty of care for staff travelling to, and working in, remote locations. By making the leap to digital operations, managers and operators can protect their staff, while empowering drivers to self-manage fatigue and stay compliant.

TN360

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DRIVER PROFILES 49

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Truckin’ In The Tropics Colin Arblaster COLIN Arblaster is usually a happy-go-lucky and friendly truckie, but he was very annoyed when stopped at the Queensland border because of Covid. “It was at Goondiwindi in Queensland and I had to drive 125km to Moree, NSW, for a Covid-19 test. I then had to wait 24 hours to get a text advising I was negative. So it was a 250km round trip and I lost almost two working days,” he said. He had not been vaccinated for Covid at the time of the interview but said he would do so soon. The 59-year-old truckie works for Begg’s Transport which is based at Nyah, Victoria.

Arblaster drives a Kenworth 909 and was stopped at the Townsville Port Access Road on August 6. “I am on a forced 24-hour break and have carried fertiliser from Brisbane to Townsville,” he said. He had to pick up a backload of spuds at Woodstock, 40km from Townsville along the Flinders Highway, for deliver down Mexico way to Sydney. A truckie for the past 15 years, Arblaster said he doesn’t eat at many roadhouses and carries most of his food, prepared by his wife, who was with him on the truck. “I am about to cook a porterhouse steak on my gas burn-

er and that will be nice,” he said. Because of the long distances he travels, which includes many interstate trips, Arblaster is well qualified to comment on what he considers the worst roads. “It would have to be a toss-up between some Wimmera roads in Victoria and the Goondiwindi to Condamine stretch in Queensland. They are both rough,” he said. An avid sports fan, Warracknabeal-born Arblaster is a passionate supporter of the Geelong Cats which are one of the top four teams in the AFL and are guaranteed to be part of the coming finals series. “They have a good team and I hope they can win it this year

with Alf Wilson

because some of their players are getting up in age,” he said. I asked Arblaster what annoyed him about the bad habits of motorists including caravan drivers. But with a wry smile, the diplomatic truckie had this off the cuff classic quote. “You need to have the patience of a saint to put up with what truckies have to from others,” he said. When Arblaster does manage to get time off work he enjoys spending time with family and friends and a visit to his favourite watering hole at the Nyah Hotel, for an icy cold glass or two of the amber fluid he likes best – VB. “They are very friendly people at the Nyah Hotel,” he said.

Matthew Jones

Ken Cathcart Senior

YOUNG NSW driver Matthew Jones said that truckies are generally treated “like lepers” by some authorities and members of the public because of Covid-19 regulations. Jones, 32, works for Moree based company Rod Pilon Transport and was having a 24-hour break when Big Rigs saw him sitting in the driver’s seat of his Kenworth T402 at Townsville. I asked Jones about his experiences during the Coronavirus pandemic era and he was quick to answer. “I have been tested about 20 times and have been negative on each occasion. But the police seem to target truck drivers and ask us so many questions. We are treated like lepers,” Jones said. He added that members of the public and many police showed little respect for drivers as they keep Australia supplied in trying times. The knowledgeable driver

VETERAN owner-operator Ken Cathcart has had one Covid-19 test which proved negative and doubts if he will get vaccinated. “I have never had a flu needle,” he said. Based in Brisbane, Cathcart runs Kaje Carriers Pty Ltd. He was driving a Freightliner he has had for eight years when he caught up with Big Rigs. Aged 60, Cathcart had been a truck driver since he was in his twenties and had carried crane parts between Townsville and Brisbane. Describing himself as a single and eligible bachelor, Cathcart said he enjoyed stopping at the Gregory Downs Hotel in the Queensland outback. “They cook a good feed there and the people are friendly,” he said. Cathcart nominated the Bruce Highway, north of Rockhampton, as being chal-

had hauled mining coils from Newcastle to Townsville and had a similar backload destined for Brisbane. Jones said more rest areas for truckies were needed overall but especially beside the Bruce Highway in Queensland. He likes stopping at the Yetholme Roadhouse in NSW because the food is great and staff are friendly.

In his travels, Jones has found the Barrier Highway in NSW on the way to Cobar and stretches of the Bruce Highway as challenging to get along. Outside work Jones enjoys spending time with his five children, aged five to 18, and fishing. “I catch some flathead and bream in creeks around Newcastle,” he said.

lenging to drive on. His hobby outside work is restoring classic motorcycles including a 1970s Honda. A major achievement for Cathcart was giving up smoking in 1996. A father of a daughter and three sons, one of them being Kenny Cathcart Junior, who

recently appeared in Big Rigs. Cathcart barracks for the North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL, which are out of contention for a finals berth this season. But his second favourite team, the Manly Sea Eagles, are amongst the top eight sides.

50 SPY ON THE ROAD

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Border crossing chaos continues SPY ON THE ROAD WITH ALF WILSON

Borders and mental health issues Closed borders between states because of Covid-19 are causing mental health problems for many of our hard-working drivers as they keep Australia supplied. Scores of drivers I have spoken to at roadhouses or rest areas say that the unpredictable nature of when, where, and be-

tween which states these occur is taking a toll on them. Some have no doubt that if there was a standard regulation that angst would decrease. But that won’t happen and of course nobody can predict when or where cases or an outbreak of Covid will occur. Most concede that the regulations are necessary in some form to manage the risk of transmission of Covid from border crossers who have been in hotspots. Protocols for Domestic Border Controls regarding freight movements are generally adopted by governments after recommendations from the chief health officer in their state.

Police check trucks entering the Gold Coast from NSW.

Recently a truckie snapped some pics of trucks entering the Gold Coast from NSW which were being diverted from the Pacific Motorway (M1) to the Gold Coast Highway at Bilinga, where they are stopped and checked by police.

New Tassie truck facility A new building to suit the needs of truckies will soon be open for business at Scottsdale in Tasmania. Scottsdale is located in the state’s north-east on the Tasman Highway, around 63km north-east of Launceston and 22km south-east of the coastal town of Bridport. The building is next to the Scottsdale United service station and roadhouse and is sure to prove popular with truck drivers. It is on the property of former long-time driver Robin Gerke who has had the lease for United there for the past 10 years. Gerke saw the need for such a facility when many trucks would purchase coffee from a lady who had a food van on the site. “For about 40 years I was

Let us take a load off your business.

The new truck facility building under construction at Scottsdale, Tasmania.

a truckie and mainly did the Scottsdale to Hobart run. So I know what drivers want. Between 20 and 30 trucks a day have been stopping here and there is lots of parking space,” he said. Gerke, who soon turns 70, said the building would open by Christmas and provide food, drinks, grocery items, some spare parts and toilet facilities. Several drivers told Big Rigs that the new facility would be welcomed. “The coffee van has been popular with truckies and I am told the lady will stay on when the building opens,” one told Spy. Recently Gerke travelled around far North Queensland in a caravan and got to see places such as Mackay, Longreach and Barcaldine.

“I also saw what it is like from the other side. Being a van driver after having been a truckie,” he said. Gerke said the United Scottsdale had copies of Big Rigs onsite and he would arrange for some to be available when the building opens. “Big Rigs is read Australia wide and I read it regularly,” he said. Skin cancer alert A veteran NSW driver wants to warn others of the danger of skin cancers after having a dangerous squamous cell carcinoma removed surgically in hospital. “These can be life-threatening cancers and mine was on an ankle,” he said. This gent previously received successful treatment of a melanoma after early diagnosis.

He has also had several of the less dangerous basal cell carcinoma removed. Squamous cells are small, flat cells in the outer layer of skin. When these cells become cancerous, they typically develop into rounded skin tumors that can be flat or raised. I spoke to him when he was recovering in hospital, and he expected to take several weeks to fully recover. “I had a skin graft on it,” he said. WA roadhouse impresses Several truckies and some van drivers have been impressed with the Roebuck Plains roadhouse which is situated near Broome, WA. It is located on the junction of the Great Northern Highway and Broome Road and lots of trucks stop there. In addition to value priced meals and friendly staff, the roadhouse has some novelty items in the bar such as a collection of road signs, number plates, whips and bull horns. Some truckies even got to check out the Broome Horse Racing Carnival in mid August.

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SPY ON THE ROAD 51

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

A magnificent Darwin sunset captured by a truckie

Inside the Roebuck Plains Roadhouse

Caravan chaos A three-day lockdown at Cairns due to Covid-19 proved a nightmare for truckies driving south from there along the Bruce Highway. Grey nomads in their hundreds left Cairns to avoid the lockdown and congested the highway as far away as Townsville – a distance of 340 kilometres. Numerous truckies told Spy that the high number of grey nomads slowed them down as well as other traffic. “Us truck drivers get held up by vans in normal traffic conditions, but this was chaotic,” he said. I was told some “interest-

ing conversations” between the drivers and grey nomads took place over the radio. Many of the grey nomads tried to find rest areas or van parks along the way at towns such as Innisfail, Tully, Cardwell and Ingham, which was good for the local economies. But you have to spare a thought for the truckies. Powerful B-double This Northern Territory B-double has plenty of horsepower. Not surprising either because it is a horse. At the recent Douglas Daly campdraft in the NT, the horse B-double ridden by Michael Stanley finished a

creditable eighth in the blue ribbon open division. Not a bad effort when you consider 125 horses competed in that event at Douglas-Daly, which is 150km south of Darwin. Campdrafting is a unique Australian bush sport involving a horse and rider working cattle. Douglas-Daly consists of land associated with the catchments of the Daly and the Douglas Rivers and is located between the towns of Adelaide River and Pine Creek. A lot of road transport industry people are involved in or enjoy watching campdrafts in NT, WA, Queensland and NSW with some even in Tasmania. Glorious sunset You only have to visit a road-

house parking area to discover that many truckies love snapping pics, mostly on their mobile phone camera – the majority of which snap good quality images. There is such lensmen who relishes taking pics of sunsets in his travels around Oz. He was sitting at the Darwin Sailing Club and managed to capture a beautiful sunset which was sent onto Spy and published here. Another took a great image of a sunset way up at Thursday Island which is the business centre of the Torres Strait region in far north Queensland. It was taken from the popular and historical Grand Hotel. Fuel price difference Several interstate truckies made their annual fishing pilgrimage to Cape York in the far north of

Queensland and were shocked at the price difference for fuel. “Diesel was 20 cents a litre higher at one place than it was at another outlet just 200 kilometres away,” one said. They realised fuel would be expensive at such remote areas but never envisaged such a difference. And there was generally only one fuel supplier at many of the places. The lads did manage to catch a decent number of fish including doggie mackerel, cod and mangrove jack. Fly station frustration They are a necessary evil however fly inspection stations really are an annoyance to many truckies and other motorists. Vehicles are pulled up at the stations and must place any fruit they have in a rubbish bin

before proceeding. Fair enough when you consider how much the agricultural industry is worth to Australia. But one SA driver said he had to stop at four such stations in a short period of time. They were on the WA to SA border, another near Yunta, a third on the SA/Victoria border and a fourth at Yamba. “I know we have to have them but with all the roadworks around it adds up to a fair bit of extra time for a trip,” he said. Some years ago there was a busy papaya fruit fly inspection facility between Tully and Cairns in north Queensland. It may be long closed, but it’s good to see the covered building is still there which is used by truckies to park under in the shade.

RT ERTON

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

52 COLUMN contributors@bigrigs.com.au

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE contributors@bigrigs.com.au

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

None of this would happen if feds had laws in place EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NEWS

TWU NEWS RICHARDOLSEN OLSEN RICHARD TWU NSW State Secretary NSW/QLD State Secretary, Transport Workers’ Union

AS this pandemic rolls on and as the top of the supply chain increases its profit from the increased freight load, we need to ask the question, why is the truck driver still copping a lack of respect from those at the top? The fight we are having to engage in is the fight for job security and safety where you work. Toll is the classic example of the problems that beset the transport industry. The union has appealed to Toll to provide workers with job security provisions and abandon plans to engage an underclass of lower paid truck drivers, but Toll refused to budge. Given the talks we have had with them, we understand they are forging ahead with an attack on jobs, aiming to drive down labour costs by scrap-

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS contributors@bigrigs.com.au

ping overtime entitlements and engaging outside drivers on minimal pay and with fewer rights. Toll’s behaviour is reprehensible. The transport giant is LEGAL EAGLE making aKING cruel attack on good, ROWAN Principal Lawyer RK Lawjobs. safe transport The respect deserved by transport workers is clearly not on the minds of governments either. While we implore Toll to fix their problems, none of it would be happening if the federal government had the right regulation in place to ensure transport supply chains are adequately funded by wealthy retailers, manufacturers and oil companies at the top. As the pandemic continues, different border rules, vaccine calls, lack of testing and the fight to ensure truck stops remained open for showers and food are all contributing to our call for national leadership to provide certainty to operators and drivers to allow them to just get on with their jobs. And then we have the chaos in NSW because Gladys Berejiklian did not consult transport workers over a permit system that in our view will

The union says it has appealed to Toll to provide workers with job security provisions.

wreak havoc across the state’s transport and freight industries as the rollout appears to have been handled as poorly as previous permits. We can’t afford a situation where tens of thousands of transport workers are prevented from going to work because

of a botched permit scheme or because they haven’t been able to get a vaccine appointment in time. If that happens it will be complete chaos across the whole industry. Then there is Covid safety in yards, yards like those at FedEx where the TWU has lodged a

formal complaint with both Comcare as the safety regulator, and SafeWork NSW over Fedex’s failure to adequately protect its workforce from a known Covid exposure. Every day we are working with members, and uniontrained health and safety rep-

resentatives to ensure you are safe at work around Covid. We are making sure that companies like FedEx have valid Covid Safety plans, Covid control measures and they are consulting with workers on Covid protection in their workplace.

COLUMN 53

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Plan emphasises road and rail projects VTA COMMENT PETER ANDERSON CEO, Victorian Transport Association

THE Victorian Transport Association has welcomed a raft of new and improved transport infrastructure in a report presented to the Victorian Parliament by the state’s infrastructure advisory body, Infrastructure Victoria. The report builds on Infrastructure Victoria’s first integrated strategy from 2016 and addresses key challenges facing the state over the coming three decades including a growing and ageing population, technological transformation, climate change, and worsening congestion on our transport network. Of the report’s 94 recommendations, many specifically address the needs of freight operators whose volumes are on track to almost triple by 2050, including:

• Construction of a new Outer Ring Road and rail corridor that would ease pressure on the M80 and provide a much-needed free-flowing road transport network in Melbourne’s fast-growing north, west, and northwest; • Construction of a Cross City Motorway (CCM) facilitating east-west travel for people and freight through a connection between the West Gate Tunnel/CityLink and Eastern Freeway; • Significant investments in new passenger rail including the Metro Two project, Western Rail Corridor upgrades, reconfiguration of the City Loop and upgrades to the Northern Rail Corridor, taking cars of roads and freeing up existing road infrastructure for heavy vehicles and freight; • Investments in Road Management Systems to reduce congestion; • Supporting efforts to optimise capacity at the Port of Melbourne to ensure Victoria can remain the freight capital of Australia; and • Investments in new intermodal freight terminals to

coincide with completion of the Melbourne-Brisbane Inland Rail Project. The VTA has long supported the construction of new infrastructure so that the freight industry can productively, efficiently and safely transport exponentially growing volumes of freight. Infrastructure Victoria has rightly identified the risks of not acting and planning now for our future transport needs. Big trucks need big roads, and this report identifies key new roads such as the Cross City Motorway and an Outer Ring Road to cater for freight and keep arterial roads for passenger vehicle traffic where possible. These two road projects have been on the VTA’s radar for some time. Whilst the state and Commonwealth have been investing in the inner M80 ring road, we’ve anticipated the need for an outer orbital road to keep pace with population growth on the fringes of Melbourne, and the associated need for road freight corridors to service these populations. We must also mitigate the need for heavy vehicles to tran-

The Cross City Motorway is effectively a rebadged East West Link – a project the VTA and many others have always supported.

sit through the city when going around it would create productivity and efficiency gains. As for the Cross City Motorway, this is effectively a rebadged East West Link – a project the VTA and many others have always supported to provide a common-sense continuation of the Eastern Freeway into CityLink and the Tullamarine Freeway. If a new name is what it takes to build this vital missing piece of transport infrastructure then we support it. We also welcome investments in commuter rail in the plan because fewer cars reduce congestion, making the

road network more productive for freight operators. As our economy starts to reopen with increasing rates of vaccination, people will return to work and the last thing we need is for them to shun public transport and jump in the car. Having more frequent and affordable commuter rail options is critically important to encouraging public transport patronage and not clogging our road networks. Sustaining the Port of Melbourne as Australia’s largest container port is essential for Victoria to remain the freight capital of Australia, so we support the Infrastructure

Victoria recommendations around optimising capacity at that Port, whilst planning long-term for a second port long-term. Equally important is not compromising the Port of Melbourne precinct with public transport projects that pit commuters against heavy vehicles. Fisherman’s Bend has been earmarked as home for 80,000 people over time, and whilst we support public transport options for these communities, it must not encroach the Lorimer Street freight route, which must be preserved for heavy vehicles and HPFVs.

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54 COLUMN

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

TWAL training program shortlisted for top award

COST CUTTER CHET CLINE

AT THE WHEEL DAVID MEREDITH

AIR CTI founder/owner

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

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

Australia

SO much can happen in two weeks: the Transport Women Australia Limited, Wodonga TAFE, Volvo Group Australia initiative – Women Driving Transport Careers has been named finalist in the VictoTHE OZaTRUCKER rian Training Awards - IndusMIKE WILLIAMS try Collaboration Award catcontributors@bigrigs.com.au egory, with the winner to be announced on October 16. We are very proud of this initiative, and I would like to thank those who helped us across the line with our presentation, especially Simon Macaulay from Wodonga TAFE who made it all happen, Jeff Burns from Hanson, Marla Costabeber from Mainfreight LOBBYIST and the amazing Rachael Topp from Linfox. STEVE SHEARER WeTransport still Association have NSW and SA Road Executive Director Victoria in lockdown because of the rising Covid-19 cases,

TRUCKIN’ ON THE BORDER DAVID VILE contributors@bigrigs.com.au

EDITOR JAMES GRAHAM

TASSIE TRUCKIN’ JON WALLIS

TWU NEWS RICHARD OLSEN

LEGAL EAGLE ROWAN KING

james.graham@bigrigs.com.au

TWU NSW State Secretary

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

Principal Lawyer RK Law

The Women Driving Transport Careers initiative has been named a finalist in the Victorian Training Awards.

especially in NSW where it has spread to regional areas. It seems that although they won’t mandate the vaccine, they will make it so difficult to lead a normal life

unless you become vaccinated, they are mandating it by stealth. Until they stop counting the cases and start listing hospitalisation, they will contin-

ue to use this scaremongering to frighten vulnerable people. They will continue to control our lives and destroy the economy. The growing regulations

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and restrictions on truck drivers and transport companies trying to operate across state borders, striving to find facilities to eat or shower or even have regular comfort stops is ridiculous not to mention the regular invasive Covid tests. Who knows what long-term after-effects these may have? Many family companies who have always welcomed anyone through their doors have been forced to close their gates due to the spread of the virus to regional areas by those unconcerned for others and their failure to stay in restricted areas. The harsh restrictions, especially in Victoria where they’re closing playgrounds, parks, and childcare facilities will continue to have severe mental health issues not only in adults but our youth and our children who can’t go to school and now can’t even play outside in parks and playgrounds. We have health officials preaching to us all day about the spread of the virus, where are the mental health professionals coming out to counteract and telling us what

these continual lockdowns and restrictions and not being able to see our families and friends, not being able to interact with other people, what this is doing to our mental health and what the long-term mental health effect of this is going to be? What is the future looking like for people who have been locked up for months and months? It certainly cannot be a happy and healthy one. So, in this crazy time more than ever we need to look out for each other and make use the technology we have and check in with our mates and families, make sure that they are OK and that you are OK. Now we need to stick together and look out for each other, we will come out the other side. It may still be a long hard road to travel, with a few speed humps but we can do it if we stick together and maybe pound some sense into our politicians and stop the crippling lockdowns. Let’s hope we get to share some happy times together real soon, get these restrictions off our backs and get the party started.

COLUMN 55

BIGRIGS.COM.AU FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021

Why young drivers don’t know enough about trucks The university’s head of School of Psychological Sciences, professor Kristen Pammer, said the research suggests increased collision risk between trucks and young drivers is likely due to young drivers having underdeveloped awareness and hazard perception skills, as well as a substantial knowledge gap of the performance limitations of trucks. “This increased collision risk is also likely exacerbated by young drivers engaging in risky driving behaviours around trucks that increases driver distraction,” Pammer said. “We intend to better understand and minimise these risks by researching how young drivers currently behave around trucks, how education initiatives can increase young driver awareness of truck performance limitations, and whether these initiatives can effectively change young driver behaviours to minimise collision risk around trucks,” she said. While truck drivers are professionally trained and their vehicles are fitted with modern safety technologies,

Acting Chief Executive Officer Australian Trucking Association Bill McKinley

YOUNG drivers don’t know enough about how to stay safe around trucks. That’s the key finding from a new research paper from the road safety experts at the University of Newcastle. The research was funded by the ATA. Young people aged 17-25 make up 12 per cent of the population, but account for 19 per cent of Australia’s road fatalities. This research is an important step forward in developing effective road safety communication and behavioural change projects. It confirms our understanding that young people are overrepresented in road crashes and identifies the risk factors that are likely to increase collision risks between young drivers and trucks.

The research suggests the increased collision risk between trucks and young drivers is partly due to young drivers having underdeveloped awareness and hazard perception skills.

they cannot control the behaviour of those around them on the road. It’s time to rethink traditional road safety messaging and deliver campaigns with real cut-through. The research tells us that many young drivers are growing numb to traditional fear appeals, with messages that generate a positive response like pride and humour proving more effective. The key to reducing collision risk? Research-based, targeted driver education,

such as SafeT360. Launched in 2019, SafeT360 is an immersive educational initiative that teaches young road users how to share the road safely with trucks through virtual reality technology and interactive messaging. This innovative approach is evidence-based. Young people don’t want to be lectured, and they love to learn in ways that are fun and hands-on. This research is the first milestone in the ATA’s vi-

sionary, long term campaign of funding research to understand how to educate light vehicle drivers and develop their understanding of how to be safe around trucks. The review recommends that educational initiatives aimed at increasing young driver awareness of trucks and truck safety be evidence-based, undergo rigorous evaluation and be delivered in a way that increases young driver perception skills while reducing their risky behaviour around trucks.

Our SafeT360 program was built on this approach and was designed to support research that governments and industry can draw on in developing future campaigns. SafeT360 delivers informative, innovative and evidence-based messaging that saves young lives, and without the support of its sponsors BP, NTI, Volvo, Australia Post and the Australian Government, this would not be possible. To experience SafeT360 yourself, head to safet360.com.au.

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40 PUZZLES PUZZLES 56 1

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 7

7 11

13 14

17 19

12 20

SUDOKU

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 21 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

QUICK 1

Name another term for teams (5) 16 To be in the midst, is to be what (4) 19 Which term means feeble in body or health (6) 21 Name an aerosol spray (8) 22 23 What are twelve parts into which years are divided (6) DOUBLECROSS CROSSWORD To be qualified for classing, is to be what (8) 24 3 4 5 6 7 Find a ﬁnished crossword by deleting one of When something is losing moisture, it is doing what 25 the two letters in each divided square. 8 (6)

2 Name an Australian family noted for their association 12 with billiards and snooker (7) 3 With which name did Van Gogh sign his paintings (7) 13 Which term indicates bodies (6) 4

Down

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)

16 5x5 R E E D S

ALPHAGRAMS: LEASE, MYRIAD, NEARING, ORGANIST, PATRONESS. TODAY: Good 13 Very Good 18 Excellent 24 B L A D E

O P A L O E O L O R C N A O A R T A E S T D

HARD

24 P A I D E O R P T O W R E

U T

M I

DOUBLECROSS

T A A P E X N E N G A S E E V A R S T B I A S G E G L E E

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.

E S O Y M A N T A H A M B I C T A B T

E U T D I B U T O V E R S I D I N U M M O L E D R

A A T T T I R E I D N F I A N T C Y I

A E D A N G I O E S A R M T H S E N G

SOLUTION QUICK CROSSWORD amir amrita aria arum atria atrium attar aura auric carat cart Across: 1 Tat, 3tart Opal, 6 Apex, 7 Neb, 9 Polo, 10 Gas, 11 Lair, 13 Evade, 16 cram curt marc maria mart raita rata rimu tarmac tiara tract trait tram trauma TRAUMATICAdorn, trim 18 Step, 19 Oar, 20 Bias, 21 Tot, 23 West, 24 Glee, 25 Red. Down: 1 Tense, 2 Axe, 4 Poor, 5 Leo, 6 Anger, 8 Blade, 9 Pier, 12 Adopt, 14 Vats, 15 Carat, 17 Noted, 18 Sage, 20 Beg, 22 Owe.

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.

C A

A T

E G R E T

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.

SUDOKU G E A R S

WORD GO ROUND

A V I O N C D E N I T N S P S I R T E

Across 1 Make lace 3 Gem 6 Summit 7 Beak 9 Sport 10 Fuel 9 11 Den 13 Dodge ALPHAGRAMS 16 Embellish Solve the anagrams. Each solution is a one-word 18 Pace anagram of the letters beside it, 19 and Rowing the five implement solutions are sequential. For example, if the five-letter solution 20starts Prejudice starts with J, the six-letter solution with K, and so 21 Small drink 15 on. 23 Direction EASEL 24 Exultation DIM RAY 25 Colour 17 GRANNIE Down ROASTING 1 Time in grammar 19 TRANSPOSE 2 Tool Insert missing letters to 4 the Needy 5x5 make5ten words —sign five reading Zodiac 22 across the grid and five reading A G R down.6 Wrath 8 Dashing young man Note: more than one solution I G may 9 be Jetty possible. 23 12 Take as one’s own S A E 14 Large tanks R E 15 Gem weight 17 Famous All puzzles © T S S The Puzzle 18 Wise man Company 20 Seek charity 22 Be indebted

3 24

SOLUTIONS

EASY

N I T R E

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

HARD

S L I A N D A R U S M A R C A A S O M

A S S E T

SUDOKU

EASY

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) 55 A star that brightensfor then gradually fades is W hosuddenly are responsible newspaper contents (7) called what? (4) 6 T o be dressed, is to be what (7) 6 Which film, 1984’s Best Picture Oscar winner, was WPrague? hat are (7) slow pieces of music (7) 7 filmed in 9 13 Where was Louis Armstrong born? (3,7) (7) W hat is harsh, or bitter derision 11 Which woman was married on 29 April 1945, and died To arouse a thought, is to do what (7) 14following the day? (3,5) 1215 What the awidening a river where saltwater Nis ame place ofchannel abodeof(7) mixes with freshwater? (7) What iswhat early known(6)as (7) 1417 In heraldry, is childhood the colour silver? 1618 Millions of records from which Which term means madeUSofimmigration baked clayentry (7) island are accessible on the internet? (5) 20 T o have made something somewhat 17 Which English college was founded by Henry dark VI in is to have 1440? (4) done what (6)

Down: 2 Lindrum, 3 Vincent, 4 Somata, 5 Editors, 6 Attired, 7 Adagios, 13 Sarcasm, 14 Inspire, 15 Habitat, 17 Infancy, 18 Earthen, 20 Dimmed.

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 12 Which inventor (Thomas ____) took out more than a 1 W hat are bondservants (6) thousand patents in his lifetime? (6) Name term forofantiquated (8) (6) 8 13 Whatanother is the last word “Rule Britannia”? 15 The is Misfits in 1961 was the (6) last film starring Marilyn What an assumed name 9 Monroe and which other actor? (5,5) To Native be adjacent, isand to be what (8) a tamandua is 10 18 to Central South America, what type of animal? Which term means(8) passionate or fervent (6) 11 19 What cloth is spread over a coffin? (4) To What confirm confidence dolong whattime”? (4) (5) 12 20 is anwith informal word foris“ato very What isdisease a worker in metal (5) 13 21 What is also known as lockjaw? (7)

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Across: 1 Slaves, 8 Outdated, 9 Anonym, 10 Abutting, 11 Ardent, 12 Aver, 13 Smith, 16 Sides, 19 Amid, 21 Infirm, 22 Capsicum, 23 Months, 24 Sortable, 25 Drying.

G E N E R 1A 2 L K 9N O W L 11 E D G 13E

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Should electric vehicles pay road tax? ELECTRIC vehicles don’t pay any road costs. This is unfair for all the rest of us that pay up to 42 cents per litre for imported fuel, along with all the other costs/rip offs from high rego to stamp tax. This IN is unfair too, grossly WOMEN TRANSPORT unfair. JACQUELENE BROTHERTON ChairIofremember Transport Womenwhen Australiafuel tax was brought in, which replaced a cumbersome guessing game where we forecast our travel distances and paid a tax. That was an awful system, which looks much like the new systems being put

forth by our overpaid politicians and bureaucrats. The fuel tax is claimed to be fair, but is it? When it was brought in, the government toldWHEEL us that every dollar AT THE would used for roads. Of DAVIDbe MEREDITH contributors@bigrigs.com.au course, this ‘promise’ failed with the first change of government. Malcolm Fraser started stealing our money. John Howard got in trouble for not spending the required percentage (3 per cent) and only spending 1.5 per cent. Our roads should be 50 times better than the goat tracks we suffer on and die EDITOR on every day. And now they JAMES GRAHAM want us to pay more. Everyjames.graham@bigrigs.com.au one knows that good roads are safer. Everyone knows that bad roads damage people, damage vehicles and are unsafe. Yet, our politicians play games while we suffer. Not only that, they subsidise

THE OZ TRUCKER MIKE WILLIAMS

TWU NEWS RICHARD OLSEN

COST CUTTER CUTTER COST CHET CHETCLINE CLINE AIR CTI Air CTIfounder/owner Founder/ Owner

contributors@bigrigs.com.au

all of these EV vehicles with our taxes. So, should electric vehicles pay road tax? I believe the correct question is: Why does anyoneON payTHE road tax? TRUCKIN’ BORDER Let me explain: I cart a DAVID VILE contributors@bigrigs.com.au product for you. I pay for the fuel tax. I must add the fuel tax onto the bill that I send you. You end up paying the fuel tax and my accounting costs. Again, the subject is bigger than that. Every product that every Aussie needs is transported. Every Aussie pays for TRUCKIN’ road tax that transTASSIE port pays, and that they pay JON WALLIS when they fuel their cars. contributors@bigrigs.com.au Every Aussie travels on our roads. Road safety and efficiency affects every Australian. Why should one group have to pay for all those that don’t run trucks? Governments love to di-

vide us. They love to add new taxes all over the place, often hidden. They tell us that our trucks do more road damage, so we should pay more. But, we run trucks to feed and clothe all our citizens. We provide an essential service. They would starve and freeze if our trucks stopped delivering. Yet, we pay for the privilege. That is unfair. Therefore, electric vehicles should not pay road tax. Neither should anyone else. Roads are for everyone. Everyone benefits from better and safer roads. Road costs should come out of general revenue, and not forced onto one part or industry. Imagine the benefits: Eliminating fuel tax would eliminate a major cost. Fuel would cost only a dollar a litre. Actually, our fuel is transported in trucks that pay

LEGAL EAGLE ROWAN KING

TWU NSW State Secretary

Principal Lawyer RK Law

LOBBYIST STEVE SHEARER

SA Road Transport Association Executive Director

Electric vehicles don’t pay any road tax, while the rest of us pay up to 42 cents per litre in tax for imported fuel.

ACAPMAg State of Electric Vehicles 2020 Report.

road tax. So our fuel would cost 90 cents or so. Elimi-

nating fuel tax accounting and records would eliminate another major transport cost. Eliminating fuel tax would reduce truck and replacement parts costs, reducing our maintenance costs. Tyres would be cheaper, trucks would be cheaper. Oil would be cheaper. Transport costs would drop significantly. These reductions in costs would be passed on to manufacturing, agriculture and every citizen. Our manufacturing costs would drop. Our agriculture product costs would drop (transport is up to 33 per cent of grain costs). Our products would be more competitive. Our industry and farmers would enjoy more income, and all the food, clothes, houses and fuel would be cheaper. That sounds pretty good to me. Kill road tax. Kill toll roads too, as the government takes 50 per cents of every toll dollar. That is a lot of tax. Let’s get our country going. Covid has cost business and our country a fortune. Let’s streamline our taxation system and get this country back on its feet. No one should pay road tax.

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58 CAREERS AND TRAINING

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 3 2021 BIGRIGS.COM.AU

Scania welcomes fully qualified technicians

SCANIA Australia has completed a national programme to ensure all its technicians are fully qualified and compliant with state and national certification for the jobs they undertake. With the industry being heavily regulated and chain of responsibility being an important consideration, Scania says service and repair workshop technicians need more than factory training and years on the tools, but actual certificates that confirm they are qualified to undertake the work. Scania has developed its own apprentice program, which includes a comprehen-

sive introduction training program for recently employed technicians, as well as technical progression programs for existing technicians. The company adds that its workshops are equipped with special tooling to enable staff to perform complex tasks efficiently. As a company-owned distributor, Scania technicians are also all enrolled in a four-level factory training program. “Scania is a premium brand and as such our customers should feel confident that we always have suitably qualified staff working on their vehi-

cles, both from Scania product knowledge, legal and NHVR compliance points of view,” said Patrik Tharna, Scania Australia director of after sales. “Over the past 24 months, Scania has invested heavily to ensure all our technicians have the relevant industry accredited qualifications required to perform a wide range of tasks. We introduced a special training program to upskill technicians who were restricted in terms of what their qualifications allowed them to do. “At Scania we are proud to say that we have a process to ensure all work is done by a technician with the relevant legal qualification. There is more than brand pride at stake here, there are legal requirements and ramifications if an unqualified technician works on a vehicle, which may later be involved in an incident while in service.” Workshop performance manager at Scania Australia, Mathew Wyatt, says the company reviewed all of its 150 technicians nationwide. “If there was an older qualification or we thought that there may be a gap, then we have upskilled them to meet the latest

Scania Australia recently reviewed all of its 150 technicians to ensure they met the latest formal qualifications.

Scania says all of its technicians have the relevant legal qualification for the work they are required to perform.

formal qualifications. This is important for our compliance with the NHVR regulations, and something our customers require as well. “When we sign contracts for maintenance with large fleets, we are asked about the compliance of our technicians, and we have made sure that our people comply. Of course, around the country the requirements differ, but we have invested in our

people. This is especially the case where we have acquired technicians new to Scania with a light vehicle background, who have the technical knowledge and experience, but may have been lacking the formal qualification or certification,” Wyatt explained. “Our recruitment process ensures from the first day that new hires are formally qualified, or if not, that we have

identified any gaps and will build a programme to resolve this as a matter of urgency, and we will restrict the level of work that they can undertake until the programme is completed. Within the workshops we have clear guidelines surrounding which level of qualifications are required to sign off which types of work, in line with the national or statebased regulations.”

DRIVING AUSTRALIA’S FUTURE A national initiative to train the Next Generation September 2021

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TAFE Queensland supports electric vehicle evolution

AS the electronic and battery vehicles and machinery industry continues to evolve, so does the need for updated training across a number of sectors from light automotive, heavy commercial vehicles, mobile plant technology, civil construction, mining, transport and logistics. To meet the training needs of industry and funded by the Queensland Government, TAFE Queensland has opened a purpose-built Heavy Plant Centre of Excellence that will provide up-to-date industry relevant electronic and battery-operated vehicles and machinery training. The centre was built in response to an industry need for workers to be safely trained in these emerging technologies and to ensure industry is equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to reduce the risks associated with working on these vehicles and machinery. TAFE Queensland Heavy Vehicle Industries business manager, Geoff Tillett said that as a future focused and trusted industry training partner, we are pioneering to deliver the training that industry needs to

service and repair the hybrid electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles and machinery coming into Australia at an increasing volume. “As a result of this increase comes the risk of having unskilled and unqualified people within this industry working on high voltage and high amperage battery electric vehicles,” Tillett said. “The skills and knowledge learnt at our new Heavy Plant Centre of Excellence will be essential to complete work on

electronic and battery-operated vehicles and machinery to the highest safety and service standards. “TAFE Queensland aims to ensure industry is safe when it comes to working on new electronic and battery-operated vehicles and machinery and to ensure our employers and apprentices have both the current and contextualised training they require,” he said. “TAFE Queensland has already been providing industry standard training across the

hybrid electronic light vehicles sector for over 10 years and the new training facility will enable training to now extend further to support heavy commercial vehicles, mobile plant technology, civil construction, mining, transport and logistics sectors.” “The centre will also offer specialised training on electronic propulsion and integrated hydraulic systems in mobile plant and road transport as well as the high-end diagnostic capabilities that are

TAFE Queensland has opened a purpose-built Heavy Plant Centre of Excellence that will provide upto-date industry relevant electronic and battery-operated vehicles and machinery training.

going be required well into the future,” he said. As TAFE Queensland expands its capabilities to support the electronic and battery-operated vehicles and machinery sector, partnerships have already been formed with key industry organisations to ensure all training remains consistent and up to date as new technologies continue to evolve. One of these partners, global aftermarket parts and automotive supplies provider, DANA Australia will work with TAFE Queensland to supply ongoing resources, training and support. The company has already made plans to provide two sets of Dana TM4 SUMO motors and CO150 inverters, which are used on the Sandvik Artisan A18 battery-electric loader. Nick Stavrakis, Dana Australia’s managing director, says the company is pleased to have the opportunity to partner with TAFE Queensland to customise training to meet the unique needs of these important future career paths. “Dana offers a full suite of electrified technologies for off-highway equipment and we

understand that the technicians of the future will require training to ensure they can safely manage the maintenance activities for these vehicles,” he said. A featured course delivered from the new facility is the Safely Depower and Reinitialise Hybrid Vehicle Skill Set (SSAUR001). The course is designed to provide updated electronic and battery electric vehicles skills relevant across the light automotive, heavy commercial vehicles, mobile plant technology, civil construction, mining and transport and logistics industries. The skill set provides existing workers key skills including the main components of hybrid battery electrics vehicles, how to safely isolate high voltage (HV) rechargeable energy storage systems (RESS), and how to reinitialise energy storage systems and safely reinitialise a hybrid electric vehicle. The next available course starts on November 15, 2021 and will be delivered at TAFE Queensland’s Acacia Ridge campus in Brisbane. For enquiries and enrolments, call TAFE Queensland on 1300 308 233 or visit tafeqld.edu.au.

Bitumen Sub Contractor TheTanker Opportunity

Fulton Hogan Transport currently have a vacancy for a tanker owner driver to join our transport team based out of Dry Creek in South Australia. Reporting to the WA/SA Transport Manager, your primary duty will be the transportation   of bitumen products to our plants and customers.

The Opportunity

Fulton Hogan Transport currently have a vacancy for a tanker owner driver to join our transport team based out of Dry Creek in South Australia. Reporting to the WA/SA Transport Manager, your primary duty will be the transportation of bitumen products to our plants and customers. You will be Responsible for

Adhering to all Safety procedures to operate the Tanker Ability to work efficiently and effectively to deadlines

   

Accurate completion of all trip paperwork Work in accordance with all Fatigue Laws

You will be Responsible for • Adhering to all Safety procedures to operate the Tanker   • Ability to work efficiently and effectively to   deadlines  • Accurate completion of all trip paperwork • Work in accordance with all Fatigue Laws • Ability to work as part of a small team • Delivering hot bitumen to required sites and ensuring all safety regulations are adhered to during transportation Ability to work as part of a small team

Delivering hot bitumen to required sites and ensuring all safety regulations are adhered to during transportation

What we need from you?

Dangerous Goods License MC Driver License

Experience in the Asphalt industry an advantage

Willingness to travel and work away when required

White Prime Mover (Late Model) capable of towing a B-Double or Double Road Train

We Offer     

Continuous work Fulton Hogan Transport will provide training and all specialised PPE. Remuneration is paid twice monthly. If you are willing to work the opportunity is there to develop a very profitable and sustainable business for yourself. Fixed term cartage contract

What we need from you? • Dangerous Goods License • MC Driver License • Experience in the Asphalt industry an advantage • Willingness to travel and work away when required • White Prime Mover (Late Model) capable of towing a B-Double or Double Road Train

Fulton Hogan Philosophy

We build and maintain critical infrastructure that connects and enhances communities across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. Everything from roads and bridges, to airports and utilities. We're committed to ensuring the Good Work we do will make a positive difference to the quality of life for our people, our customers and the communities we all call home. Our continued success relies on generating new and diverse ideas, which is why our 'Good Work' culture encourages ownership and empowerment, while never forgetting the importance of balancing life's priorities.

We Offer • Continuous work • Fulton Hogan Transport will provide training and all specialised PPE. • Remuneration is paid twice monthly. • If you are willing to work the opportunity is there to develop a very profitable and sustainable business for yourself. • Fixed term cartage contract

Sound like you?

If this sounds like and you would like to help build on our Good Work culture, then we would like to hear from you. In the First instance please contact

BWC Contracting is currently seeking experienced Truck & Dog Drivers with an immediate start available. We have multiple positions available based at our depot in Crestmead (Browns Plains), carting raw materials for a leading concrete and aggregates supplier. We have both casual and permanent full-time roles for drivers looking for long term positions. Hours are Monday to Friday with a half day Saturday. Attractive hourly rates on offer.

The successful candidates will possess the following: • • • • •

Current HC Licence and Blue/White Card essential Experience operating truck and dog combinations Good work ethic and attitude Commitment to Workplace Health and Safety at all times Experience in a similar role an advantage

NOTE: You will be required to provide your current Queensland Transport history and undergo a police check and pre-employment medical, including drug and alcohol screening.

To apply email resume to

hr@bwc.net.au or call 07 3805 8378

Peter.Hug@fultonhogan.com.au WA/SA Transport Manager

Fulton Hogan Philosophy We build and maintain critical infrastructure that connects and enhances communities across Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific. Everything from roads and bridges, to airports and utilities. We’re committed to ensuring the Good Work we do will make a positive difference to the quality of life for our people, our customers and the communities we all call home. Our continued success relies on generating new and diverse ideas, which is why our ‘Good Work’ culture encourages ownership and empowerment, while never forgetting the importance of balancing life’s priorities. Sound like you? If this sounds like and you would like to help build on our Good Work culture, then we would like to hear from you. In the First instance please contact Peter.Hug@fultonhogan.com.au WA/SA Transport Manager

D BY O

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