Trailer Mag Apr 2022 by Prime Creative Media

A U S T R A L A S I A’ S T R A I L E R I N D U S T R Y R E S O U R C E

APRIL 2022

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FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK PUBLISHER

John Murphy john.murphy@primecreative.com.au

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Luke Applebee luke.applebee@primecreative.com.au

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All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.

Trailer Magazine is owned by Prime Creative and published by John Murphy. All material in Trailer Magazine is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information Prime Creative will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Trailer Magazine are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated. Officially endorsed by the VTA

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Trailer Magazine Editor Luke Applebee

Working towards national consistency It has been said the access permit system for the Performance-Based Standard (PBS) high productivity scheme is due for urgent change. This plea from industry associations, fleet operators, truck drivers – anyone frustrated with idle truck and trailer combinations that are otherwise good to go – is not a new sentiment, and the matter is making the rounds yet again. It’s a fair assessment of the situation from a business perspective. The Chief Executive of Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia, Todd Hacking, calls it “bureaucratic dithering”, referring to heavy vehicle equipment simply not in use for up to 150 days due to pending approvals and so on from transport authorities and regulatory bodies. For every day these PBS investments are not on the road, it conflates the issues that Australia is experiencing with stretched and disrupted road freight supply chains and for transport businesses to do their job. For sure, the perks of leveraging impressive productivity gains and reducing the number of trucks required on the road wears thin when the very gear an organisation has invested in for the task is mired in lengthy approval-related delays. Hacking has called out this “national disgrace” and has challenged every government, state and local, with outstanding applications to clear the backlog immediately. Equally frustrated are the PBS engineers

and specialists who work tirelessly to promote the advantages of high productivity vehicles. If road managers have 28 days, as per Heavy Vehicle National Law, to decide on a PBS access permit application then what needs to be done to overcome this challenge for our industry? While access provisions are under review by the National Transport Commission, Hacking’s team have called for a system where National Heavy Vehicle Regulator grants approvals are based on precedent whenever applicable. Also, all permit approvals are published and an appeals mechanism for any refused application; or where road managers have 28 days to appeal a Regulator decision, a builtin statutory approval for the permit should apply if the 28-day timeframe lapses. Similarly, road managers can use third-party approved persons to approve access applications; a callin-power should be available from all jurisdictions to assess and approve low risk applications; bridge rating assessment data should be shared by all jurisdictions with a view on an agreed, national, consistent and transparent approach to access; and automatic approval for applications that meet the Tier 1 or Tier 2 bridge formulae. I’ll be watching this space with keen interest.

www.trailermag.com.au

8 32

April 2022

8 Industry News The latest news in the commercial road transport industry. 28 Economy Viva Energy described a New Energies Service Station in Geelong, Victoria, as a market leading development in Australia, comparable with other large commercial refuelling infrastructure installations worldwide.

30 Modern Road Tankers Holmwood, AAA Trailers and Liquip showcase their industry innovations. 36 Trailer Builder The latest developments in Australia’s trailer building scene. 40 Trailer Building Materials/Components Here are examples of quality componentry that keep trucks and trailers on the move.

50 Women in Industry The finalists have been revealed for the upcoming Women in Industry Awards. 62 World Map A look at Italian tanker materials. 54 Fleet of the Month Vac Truck Industries is a leading Australian manufacturer of versatile hydro-vacuum excavation and high pressure jetter trucks. 56 Industry Icon A series dedicated to honouring the unsung heroes of the commercial road transport industry. 58 What’s On Upcoming shows and field days.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

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NEWS

Rio Tinto commits to Tasmania’s industrial future The Tasmanian Government and mining

Bay Aluminium and investigate options

we are excited about the contribution our

company, Rio Tinto, will work together to

for future investment to secure the

Bell Bay smelter can make both towards this

ensure a strong, sustainable future economy

competitiveness of the smelter.

transition and to the region’s future,” said

for George Town.

The MOU was signed at Bell Bay by

Stausholm.

This partnership was recently signed at

Tasmanian Premier, Peter Gutwein, and Rio

“We want to help ensure a strong and

the Bell Bay Aluminium smelter. It seeks to

Tinto Chief Executive, Jakob Stausholm.

vibrant future for Bell Bay, where we have

drive economic growth and employment

“This MOU is a strong demonstration of our

been part of the community for well over

outcomes in the state and support the

shared commitment to Tasmania’s economic

half a century and where we are actively

Tasmanian Government’s target of doubling

and industrial future and reinforces the

working with the Tasmanian Government

renewable electricity generation by 2040.

state’s renewable energy credentials,” said

on a shared vision for the future.”

Under the Memorandum of Understanding

Gutwein.

Bell Bay Aluminium General Manager,

(MOU), the Tasmanian Government and

“Rio Tinto has been a figurehead of local

Shona Markham, said Bell Bay Aluminium

Rio Tinto will jointly investigate how the

industry here for some 67 years, directly

has been an important part of George Town

smelter’s manufacturing capability and

employing more than 500 Tasmanians

and the northern Tasmanian economy for

electricity demand can help support the

and more than 700 indirectly, and this

nearly 70 years.

development of new industries and more

agreement reaffirms Rio Tinto’s long-term

“It is a strong endorsement that Rio Tinto

renewable energy supply in the region.

commitment to our state.”

and the Tasmanian Government see a

Rio Tinto has also committed to look at

“Aluminium is essential for the global

positive and sustainable future for Bell Bay

how it could further decarbonise Bell

transition to a low-carbon economy, and

beyond 2025,” said Marhham.

Horrocks Hwy upgrade receives funding boost

South Australia freight networks are set to

Additional upgrades to the region will help

“It will also support 135 jobs during

benefit as a result of increased accessibility

widen and strengthen bridges at Wakefield

construction to provide a much-needed

for heavy vehicles following upgrade plans

River, Hutt River and Rocky River.

short-term economic boost.”

along Horrocks Highway.

The added funding will also be used to

Finance minister and senator for South

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for

upgrade local road junctions, deliver

Australia, Simon Birmingham, said the road

Infrastructure, Transport and Regional

shoulder sealing and curve widening, install

upgrade will the safety and road quality

Development, Barnaby Joyce, said the

safety barriers and audio tactile line marking

of travelling on the highway, while also

Horrocks Highway upgrade will make

and provide overtaking lane extensions at

increasing accessibility for local freight

freight travelling safer and more efficient.

Tarlee and Templers.

networks.

The Australian Government has announced

These upgrades support the installation of

“The Horrocks Highway is a vital rural route

a $400 million funding boost to help make

new overtaking lanes and shoulder seals

in South Australia, and is a major gateway

the Horrocks Highway upgrades safer.

along priority sections between Clare and

connecting primary producers and tourists

The funding injection will improve the key

Auburn and south of Giles Corner, as

alike from the Clare Valley to the Mid North

freight route of the Horrocks Highway for

well as other works on the area like the

of our state,” he said.

local primary producers and will enhance

improvement of the Gladstone level crossing

“Upgrading this key route will also improve

the driver experience for those travelling to

and a bridge and culvert replacement north

access for our primary producers and local

the Clare Valley and Mid North.

of Melrose.

businesses to domestic and international

This latest funding increase from the

“Safer and more efficient highways mean

markets, ensuring their local produce can

Australian Government brings their total

freight can be moved to international and

investment to $84 million in an 80/20 split

domestic buyers more quickly, ensuring

get to where it needs to.” This project is one of 15 new road safety

with the South Australian Government on

these important sectors continue to drive

assignments first announced by the Federal

the $105 million project.

our economy,” said Joyce.

Government in February.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

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NEWS

Chill to launch female-only trucking program Refrigerated logistics company, Chill, will run a female-only training program for truck drivers in New South Wales. The business’ Sydney-based headquarters has been given an exemption to the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act, allowing it to advertise and run a female-only trucking training and education program. Chill lodged the exemption application last year, in a bid to lead the charge for women in the transport industry, particularly in light of growing staffing shortages across both the transport and warehouse sectors. Currently, women make up just 26 per cent of the transport industry in Australia – a figure Chill co-director Lauren Wade is keen to change. “The days of the stereotypical male ‘truckie’ sitting behind the wheel of a big rig are gone,” said Wade. “We’ve seen a significant shift in the transport and warehouse industries, particularly in the last few years, courtesy of the ageing workforce and a severe staff shortage. “It comes at a time when e-commerce and the demand for door-to-door delivery is on the rise, so businesses need to start thinking about a succession plan,

with career progression, more family-

“It gives me time to think and reflect and

“We’d love to see similar businesses follow

friendly rosters, and new equipment and

I get to meet so many interesting people

suit and apply for their own exemption.

procedures.

along the way.

“An industry-wide shift would make

“Companies across the nation are looking

“It’s a great career option for people who

significant in-roads in addressing the

for good-quality, professional truck drivers

don’t want to be confined to an office, are

gender gap in the transport sector, while

and warehouse staff and women are

deadline and outcome driven, and want

training drivers at a time when we really

critical to filling these positions.

something that works in with their lifestyle.

need them.”

“Being able to run a trucking training

As a woman, I love the idea that I’m shifting

Women in Trucking Australia CEO Lyndal

program that is solely designed for women

the gender balance within the industry and

Denny welcomed the announcement.

means we can attract and retain them into

empowering other women to sign up and

“We congratulate Chill for setting the

employment and gain some momentum

give it a go.”

standard, for embracing change and for

for females in the industry.”

Chill is now working with industry bodies

actively developing and implementing

Chill Senior Planner Liesel Croukamp, who

to get the program up and running. The

strategies to recruit and retain female

started her career as a driver and returned

business will also help support the cost of

heavy vehicle drivers,” she said.

to the road during Covid-19, believes truck

truck licences for successful candidates.

“Their commitment to strengthening

driving is a fantastic career for women.

“These programs have the potential to be

the pipeline of female talent into this

“I absolutely love being out on the open

rolled-out state-wide, providing a longevity

traditionally male-dominated vocation gives

road and spending time behind the

plan for attracting and skilling women in the

aspiring female truckies hope that the tide

wheel,” she said.

sector,” said Wade.

is starting to turn.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

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NEWS

Government announces AEB and ESC mandates for new heavy vehicles Advanced Emergency Braking (AEB) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems must be installed from 1 November 2023 for all new models of heavy vehicles. The Australian Government last month mandated what it referred to as two lifesaving vehicle technologies for new heavy vehicles. AEB systems detect likely forward collisions, provide the driver with a warning and, if the driver does not respond, apply the brakes automatically. ESC systems detect the risk of a rollover and automatically decelerate the vehicle in response. They can also detect when a vehicle diverges from the driver’s intended course, and take corrective action to bring the vehicle back on track. ESC systems for heavy vehicles are estimated to reduce loss of control and rollover crashes by up to 30 per cent in some cases. AEB systems, meanwhile, are expected to

“As well as saving lives and giving a bit of

calls by road safety advocates, the states and

reduce crashes involving a heavy vehicle

extra peace of mind to our hard-working

territories, and Australians directly affected

impacting the rear of another vehicle by up to

heavy vehicle operators and their families,

by these types of heavy vehicle crashes, to

57 per cent.

the new standards are expected to return

mandate this technology to prevent tragic

These new standards will apply to all

a net benefit of around $140 million to the

outcomes,” he said.

categories of heavy vehicles, from buses and

Australian economy.”

“AEB technology will be particularly impactful

coaches through to heavy goods trucks.

Hogan said these technologies would have

for our nation’s articulated vehicles, which

Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime

significant benefits for the heavy vehicle

see around 70 per cent of fatalities and just

Minister, Kevin Hogan, said mandating both

sector, from bus operators through to those

under half of the serious injuries from crashes

technologies will help save lives and prevent

driving our biggest trucks.

involving heavy vehicles striking the rear of

injuries on the nation’s roads.

“Crashes involving heavy vehicles can be

another vehicle,” continued Hogan.

“The Australian Government is committed

particularly severe due to the size, loads and

“These new requirements for AEB and ESC

to improving road safety through strong

trips these types of vehicles are taking, having

systems have been harmonised with established

investment and national leadership,” said

a devastating effect on the individuals and

international standards, ensuring the safest

Hogan.

families involved,” said Hogan.

vehicles are made available to Australian

“Vehicle technology has an important role

He said heavy vehicle operators work hard

operators at the lowest cost.

to play in saving lives and livelihoods on our

to keep the economy and nation running

“The phased introduction of these life-saving

roads, which is why we have introduced new

by getting produce to plates and goods to

systems will give our heavy vehicle sector,

standards requiring AEB and ESC systems to

markets.

including manufacturers, the time needed to

be installed in all new heavy vehicles,” he said.

Hogan reiterated that the Australian

effectively make the transition.”

“Mandating this technology for heavy vehicles

Government was committed to doing its part

For existing models already in circulation, these

is expected to save around 100 lives and avoid

to help keep them safe on our roads.

systems must be installed in new goods vehicles

over 2,300 serious injuries over 40 years.

“We have listened and we have acted on the

over 3.5 tonnes from 1 February 2025.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

NEWS

L B h

Mainfreight celebrates 44 years

Transport and logistics company,

In 2011 Mainfreight acquired Wim Bosman

“Our service providers and associated

Mainfreight, celebrates 44 years of

Group which opened doors in Europe.

ancillary services are also impacted by

operation this week.

Currently, Mainfreight engages in global

capacity and service challenges. Rail, Cook

In 1986 the business welcomed its 100th

supply chain solutions, air and ocean services,

Strait ferries, and landside port stevedoring

team member. As of yesterday, the team is

transport and warehousing services.

services are all experiencing the impacts of

pushing 10,300 individuals.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today without

reduced resources.

Mainfreight opened its doors in Auckland,

our people, so to our team, thank you,” said

“As expected, daily case numbers in

New Zealand, in 1978. By 1996 the business

Mainfreight.

locations outside of the larger Auckland

went public and listed on the New Zealand

On 8 March 2022 the company shared a

and Waikato catchments are increasing.

Stock Exchange.

service update in relation to its operations in

This will cause inevitable limitations in the

Australian operations began in 1989

New Zealand.

coming weeks. In addition, unprocessed

whereas acquisitions in Asia and the US

“The widespread disruption across the

orders could create volume surges to areas

during 1999 enabled global opportunities.

business community due to Omicron

south of these large supply markets and

Complete ownership of Mainfreight’s Asian

continues to affect the flow of goods between

may create a build-up of volume at delivery

operations was reportedly complete in

shippers and receivers,” said Mainfreight.

locations.

2007. Today, the business has branches in

“As fluctuating team numbers reduce shift

“With the continued unpredictability of

China, South East Asia, Japan and Korea.

capacity, we are managing resources daily

Omicron, it is important to manage the

Expansion in the Americas was made

across our Warehousing, Transport, and Air

expectations of your customers as we

possible following the purchase of Target

& Ocean teams to ensure service continuity,

manage the end-to-end restraints of the

Logistics services in 2007.

albeit at a reduced level.

current supply chain.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

D o

Liquip’s new Swing Hatch: Built for Australia’s harshest conditions Like you, we believe safety is an unconditional priority The new Liquip 450 Series Swing Hatch has been designed and tested in line with the recently released Australian Standard AS2809:2020.

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• Easy loading and quick access for cleaning and inspection

test requirements. Liquip’s Swing Hatch

• Includes an integral emergency vent and provision for a

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NEWS

Breakthrough could eliminate the need to refrigerate vaccines in transit Researchers have developed a technique

Dr Ruhani Singh.

that addresses the challenge of transporting temperature-sensitive vaccines. This development, according to national science agency, CSIRO, may increase vaccine access in rural and remote communities in Australia and developing countries. The World Health Organization estimates that at least 50 per cent of vaccines are wasted globally each year, with a lack of facilities and temperature control the major cause. CSIRO researchers encapsulated live virus vaccines with a dissolvable crystalline material called Metal Organic Frameworks (MOFs), which protected the integrity of the vaccines for up to 12 weeks and at temperatures as high as 37 degrees Celsius. Without refrigeration the vaccines would otherwise last only a few days. CSIRO scientist and immunologist, Dr Daniel Layton, said the breakthrough science would now focus on proving the approach for other animal and human

a Newcastle Disease vaccine designed to

Dr Ruhani Singh, said the technique was

vaccines, including mRNA Covid-19

protect poultry and a strain of Influenza A.

cost-effective and scalable.

vaccines.

When MOFs were formed around the

“There are two common approaches to

“Vaccination is undoubtedly one of the

vaccines they helped protect the vaccine

protecting vaccines from heat. You can

most effective medical interventions,

molecules from heat stress. A solution

modify the vaccine, which is complex and

saving millions of lives each year,

was then used that dissolved the MOF for

laborious and at high temperatures may

however delivering vaccines, particularly

administration of the vaccine.

still only last less than a week, or you can

to developing countries, is challenging

CSIRO senior scientist, Dr Cara Doherty,

use other stabilising agents which pose

because they often lack the cold storage

said MOFs were the perfect material for

challenges including how to realistically

supply chains required to keep the vaccine

protecting vaccines from temperature

scale up the solution,” said Dr Singh.

viable,” said Dr Layton.

variations.

“This world-first approach of stabilising a

“Live virus vaccines are extremely effective,

“MOFs are a porous crystalline material

vaccine with MOFs is simple, rapid, and

but their complex composition makes them

that can grow around the vaccine to form a

scalable because it takes one step.”

susceptible to high temperatures, and a

scaffold that protects against temperature

The team continue to progress this research

universal stabilisation technique has not

variations,” said Dr Doherty.

and are looking to partner with animal and

been found.

“MOFs work similarly to a scaffold you

human health companies to commercialise

“This breakthrough has the potential to

might put around your house, once you

their work. Their research forms part of

enable more affordable and equitable

remove the scaffold, your house remains –

CSIRO’s biomedical research, which is

access to vaccines across the world.”

which is what happens when we dissolve

aiming to generate new opportunities for

The research focused on two different

the MOFs in a vaccine.”

Australian businesses and increase national

types of live viruses as proofs of concept,

CSIRO researcher and author of the paper,

sovereign capability.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

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NEWS

CSIRO unveils Brown Marmorated Stink Bug detecting app A crucial breakthrough has been discovered in Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) Detection and Prevention. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) has developed a proactive and useful app that can actually detect BMSB. The creation of this app has been generously funded $5.5 million per annum by the reliable Biosecurity Innovation Program. The groundbreaking app is currently being trialed with the intention of helping aide 50 biosecurity officers to detect BMSB. In addition, a further generous total of $424,677 has been granted with the aim of enhancing this technology, which will be the inaugural release of such a product, worldwide. This mobile phone app locates BMSB and is now being trialed by the dependable Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment. These crucial trials are essential to progressing to the next stage of the app’s development, before being released to the public to ensure that the app works efficiently and effectively. The Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud, claims that if the

Brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys, an invasive insect pest.

app performs to expectations, it would be a significantly positive outcome and provide useful data for detections of a biosecurity

CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency,

Littleproud and his team have pulled out

nature.

working with Microsoft technology, we’re

all the stops to ensure that this project is

“Brown marmorated stink bug is a huge risk

now trialing an app that can learn to tell the

successful, stating that: “We’re working

for Australia if it were to get loose on our

difference between a destructive stink bug

with biosecurity officers to see how it

shores,” said Littleproud.

and a harmless one.”

goes in the real world. What’s important

“It has the potential to destroy more than

Further reassuring developments, Littleproud

now is figuring out the use, reliability, and

300 agricultural and ornamental plant

reveals are that: “CSIRO’s National Research

accuracy of the app.”

species, including vegetables and fruit, and

Collections Australia, which contain local and

It can be safe to say that Littleproud

hammer native ornamental species.

foreign stink bugs, was used by experts as a

finds the current development of this

“Brown marmorated stink bugs look a lot like

reference when training the app.”

app promising, asserting that: “It’s

other native species of stink bugs, which are

The Minister goes on to explain that: “It’s a

still early days, but if this app goes to

harmless. This can lead to confusion and false

real-time triage tool that improves surveillance

plan it’s another tool in our arsenal to

sightings.”

outcomes, allowing our experts to spend less

keep Australia’s biosecurity strong and

Fortunately, there is a potential solution,

time checking out a harmless bug and more

protect Australia’s industry, economy and

which Littleproud reveals is: “Thanks to the

time looking for the real threat.”

environment.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

Capral C

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NEWS

Qube partners with UNIQ You Transport and logistics company, Qube, has

partnering with UNIQ You to help encourage

“Our partnership with Qube allows us to

announced a partnership with UNIQ You

the next generation of women into our sector

expose Years 9-12 girls to opportunities

to promote industry opportunities where

where they can experience dynamic, exciting

across the supply chain from beginning

women are under represented.

and diverse careers,” she said.

to end and represents an important step

The Queensland-based not-for-profit, UNIQ

“Our operations stretch across all regions of

towards closing the gender gap in one of

You, aims to expose high school girls in

Australia and the opportunities for passionate

Australia’s most sophisticated and complex

years 9-12 who may be inhibited by gender

women to make a difference are endless.”

sectors.”

stereotypes in the pursuit of careers.

UNIQ You CEO Tanya Meessmann is excited

UNIQ You aims to take a giant step towards

According to Emily Link, Director – People,

about the prospect of partnering with the

addressing the critical pipeline issue that

Culture & Safety, Qube is well-positioned to

Australian integrated logistics provider.

limits girls’ opportunities in rapidly evolving

drive change.

“The scope and breadth of knowledge and

and increasingly competitive spaces by

“Qube is committed to creating an

expertise required to manage the acquisition,

facilitating career advisory calls, and with

environment that encourages inclusion,

storage and transport of resources is

equity and diversity. We are delighted to be

enormous,” she said.

the support of partner companies such as Qube.

XL Express applauds B-triple deployment Queensland-based transport and logistics

initiative demonstrated our team’s dedication,

our operations teams across four states, the

company, XL Express, announced early March

determination, and persistence to respond

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), and

it was scheduling its first B-triple road train to

to our client’s needs and get much needed

multiple transport authorities in an extremely

run from Sydney to Perth.

supplies to Perth following a once in a

short timeframe.

This development signals a shift for the

200-year weather event that washed away

“The outcome, a quick response to an

business to lean into the use of high

parts of the Trans-Australian railway across

immediate problem whilst being agile in

productivity vehicles across its fleet.

South Australia,” XL Express said in a

meeting the needs of our clients and taking

“Aligning closely to two of our values here

statement.

strides for our business in productivity and

at XL Express, care, and collaboration, the

“The XL Express Fleet team collaborated with

innovative thinking.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

LPG TANKER RETURNS Holmwood Highgate has the pleasure of announcing becoming the exclusive distributor for Sica-Muller pressure vessels and tankers for the Australian market.

With the rapid decline in local manufacturers possessing the capability to engineer and manufacture LPG, a strong demand was created which Holmwood Highgate would happily oblige to complete.

This historic moment marks the return of the LPG tanker from Holmwood to our market. These tankers have not been manufactured by Holmwood Highgate in Australia for over 30 years. With the rapid decline in local manufacturers possessing the capability to engineer and manufacture LPG tankers, a strong demand was created which Holmwood Highgate would happily oblige to meet.

The opportunity to bring in the Sica-Muller product represents an opportunity for Australians to experience the latest and greatest in European manufacturing technologies and materials resulting in lighter tare weights with higher payloads. Find out more at:

www.holmwoodhighgate.com.au

Queensland 20-26 Burchill Street, Loganholme, QLD, 4129

Victoria 425 Fitzgerald Road, Derrimut, VIC, 3026 www.trailermag.com.au

NEWS

Inland Rail aims to cut freight transport costs Inland Rail’s recent projections demonstrates

• $184 per tonne (47 per cent) reduction

route means they can expand and hire more

freight transport costs could be reduced, with

between Brisbane and Parkes, connecting

Australians, helping regional economies

a potential maximum of $213 million per year.

to Perth;

grow into the future.”

This would lead to gigantic savings for industries and businesses that use this particular line. As a result, this could lead to a significantly positive development of regional

• $48 per tonne (22 per cent) reduction

“With the enhancements that Inland Rail will

from Brisbane and connecting to Adelaide;

bring to our national freight network, these

and

savings will be felt by supply chains reaching

• $62 per tonne (31 per cent) reduction for

as far west as Perth and all the way down

Australia’s growth.

regional intermodal freight to and from

to Tasmania,” said Joyce. “Our Government

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial

major metropolitan centres and ports.

had the vision to deliver Inland Rail and this

Research Organisation (CSIRO) unveiled its

• In addition, a whopping 40 per cent

modelling further reinforces why we must

Inland Rail Supply Chain Mapping Project

decrease in transport costs for freight

continue on with the job for the benefit of

this week, revealing that they discovered a

traveling to Queensland, a significant 31

all Australians.”

transition from road to Inland Rail could have

per cent reduction for New South Wales,

Simon Birmingham, the Finance Minister

a gigantic impact in decreasing the funds

as well as a 37 per cent drop for Victoria

and Senator, said the connection and access

used to relocate 22 million tonnes of freight

have all been projected from the model.

to Inland Rail’s quick, dependable and

per year. Potential savings would cater to over

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and

inexpensive freight services would positively

12,000 supply chains and 94 commodities

Regional Development, Barnaby Joyce, and

impact the value for the industry all around

which entail coal, steel, grains, vehicles,

the current Deputy Prime Minister contends

Australia.

horticulture and livestock.

that these are the exact reasons as to why

“This would enable our Government’s plan

Businesses which survive on road-based

the Government has given the green light to

to increase productivity and competitiveness

supply chains will get the most out of these

make the prospect of this project a reality.

to become a reality. CSIRO’s modelling

cost reductions and will record a significantly

Joyce said: “Inland Rail gives us the

shows how Inland Rail could slash transport

more lucrative profit, saving an estimated

greatest opportunity for boosting economic

costs for more than 90 commodities across

$80.77 per tonne and more importantly,

development in regional areas, which is why

Australia,” he said. “This highlights the

$179 million per annum. It is expected that

we are delivering the project as quickly as

significance of building a national freight

the savings accumulated from this timely shift

possible.”

network that gives producers and businesses

of funding will only grow as Australia’s freight

He added: “Shifting freight from road to

better access to domestic and international

task expands with time.

rail will drive down the cost of transporting

markets at competitive prices.”

Other savings projected for intermodal freight

goods and commodities to ports and better

When Inland Rail is ready to begin

consist of an average of:

facilitate the sale of products, like coal, that

operations, it will remove 200,000 trucks

• $90 per tonne (44 per cent) reduction

underpin our standard of living.”

off the road each year, or 150 B-doubles per

along the entire route from Melbourne and

Joyce is adamant that “Reducing freight

each train venturing between Melbourne

Brisbane;

costs for businesses and industries along the

and Brisbane.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

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NEWS

NSW Minister launches all-new freight transport advisory council Sam Farraway, New South Wales Minister for

Government strategies, policies and projects.”

“Our freight network underpins the success

Regional Transport and Roads, has launched

He is confident that “Industry insight will be

of our entire economy. The challenges

the NSW Freight Transport Advisory Council

critical to the success of our policy framework

and opportunities in this space need

(FTAC).

so we are looking for engaged leaders across

to be considered holistically, he said. “I

Farraway said the new council will be the

the transport industry to be part of the

thank those who were involved with FLAC

superior successor to the Freight and Logistics

new Council and invite them to lodge their

and RFIC, their contributions have been

Advisory Council (FLAC). It will embody the

interest.”

considerable and I would encourage those

whole freight chain across various forms of

Farraway said the sensible approach is to

council members to consider applying to be

transport as a sole, united front.

unite industry experts together in order to

part of the new FTAC.”

“Freight is a priority for the NSW Government

observe and analyse freight as a whole, not

The Council will comprise 15 exclusive

and this Council will be a place where

divided into separate types of transport. It

members specially chosen via an open

members can exchange views and engage

is certain that the only way a thorough and

expression-of-interest process.

in frank and robust discussions directly with

successful outcome can be achieved is if the

The council in question, will meet four

the government,” said Farraway. “The new

industry experts join forces to ensure that the

body will not only discuss freight and supply

freight industry will be bigger and better than

times a year, with the intention of making the industry that is freight,

chain issues, but provide input into other

ever in New South Wales.

great again.

New land release fuels road transport Victoria’s plans to release land for exploration

batteries, as well as rare minerals that are

is expected to benefit many sectors with

fundamentals for large-scale road projects.

minimal impact.

Research from 2015 to 2018 indicated there

Victoria has released over 11,000 square

is potential for copper, gold and other metals

kilometres in the state’s west to grow the

in Western Victoria, resulting in the staggered

exploration sector and fuel mineral mining for

Stavely land release project.

major projects.

Exploration projects are critical to creating

The Minerals Council Australia (MCA) has

high paying regional jobs for geologists,

announced the release of land in rural Victoria,

engineers, drilling assistants and other trades

while vowing to keep the works low impact for

roles, while also opening up opportunities to

users of the surrounding major roads.

re-build Victoria’s road infrastructure and free

Land that is set to be released for exploration

up the road transport industry.

from May 2 onwards includes the Southern

Planned projects across the state to uncover

Grampians and regions in both southern

gold, base metals, lithium and mineral sands

Ararat and northern Horsham.

generated over $200 million investment into

The planned exploration is expected to be low

of minerals projects that can also provide

Victoria in 2021, which was a 44 per cent

impact and high tech, as explorers will work

for major road and transport projects in the

increase from 2020.

with landowners to minimise disturbance

future.

The continuation of exploring the state’s vast

and prevent major road closures that would

The land release will result in swaths of

lands help increase economic growth and

disrupt the transport industry.

Victoria being open to exploration for rare

diversity in regional communities and can

The final stage of the Stavely land release

earths and copper as inputs to renewable

provide the materials required to maintain the

process will allow for the critical development

energies like wind turbine magnets and

safety of major thoroughfares.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

National logistics operator expands following acquisition Effective 1 March 2022, Formby Logistics

“Formby Logistics has a strong brand in

and local transportation between capital and

joins BagTrans, Niche Logistics, GKR Transport

the Tasmanian market and highly respected

regional cities.

and efm Warehousing & Distribution as part

leadership, and we are very excited to bring

General freight carrier, GKR Transport, was

of Logistics Holdings Australia’s business

them into the fold. This is an exciting time

acquired in July 2021 and continues to

portfolio.

for LHA as we continue to grow and expand

operate self-sufficiently in alignment with

Formby opened for business in Tasmania in

our service network.”

the group’s strategy as a diversified logistics

1972. What started as a removals enterprise

Established in March 2021, Logistics Holdings

services organisation.

turned into a general logistics service

Australia offers complete end-to-end supply

Managed under the same roof as efm

provider which supports the transportation

chain solutions tailored for Fast-Moving

Logistics, efm Warehousing & Distribution

of groceries, food packaging, manufacturing

Consumer Goods (FMCG), retail and

specialises in managing stock as well as

materials, hygiene items and paper products.

industrial industries. It is also part of FMH

offering a range of storage options including

“With this acquisition, we continue to

Group.

pallet storage, pick-and-pack processes and

expand our reach and service offering to

BagTrans is a national Less-Than-Truckload

specialised options that accommodate cold

customers,” Logistics Holdings Australia said

(LTL) express pallet carrier which mostly

chain requirements.

in a statement.

services the FMCG sector. It was acquired in

FMH Group commenced operations in 2000

“Specifically, Formby Logistics will allow us

January 2021.

with the aim to improve freight management

to offer a superior service into and out of

Niche Logistics offers Full Truckload (FTL)

by fostering better relationships with

Tasmania.

and LTL services, specialising in interstate

transport carriers.

www.trailermag.com.au

NEWS

Buchholz talks technology, training, reform: VTA State Conference 2022 Assistant Federal Assistant Minister for Road

fuel excise which is miniscule compared to the

Safety and Freight Transport, Scott Buchholz

increases in fuel that we have seen across the

conceded he was channelling former US

country at the moment.”

Secretary of State Colin Powell in his keynote

Buchholz spoke about other financial

presentation at the VTA State Conference

mechanisms put in place in response to the

held at Phillip Island last month.

pandemic.

“There are known certainties that we have

“When we created the instant asset write

moving forward, and there are unknown

off which encouraged industry to go out and

certainties,” Buchholz told his audience.

buy more capital equipment which they could

Addressing post-pandemic supply chain

write off 100 per cent in the first year, that

certainty, Buchholz identified a number of

was done in an environment where inflation

issues including the need for reforms.

was about 1.0 per cent and it’s now 3.5,

“The challenge for us moving forward with

which is outside of the Reserve Bank’s range

the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR)

of between 2.0 and 3.0 per cent. So we have

that security behind you’, now they can be a

is to loosen up some of the antiquated and

to create fiscal settings that keep one eye

part of a fully recognised trade apprenticeship

very restrictive parameters which it has to

on inflationary pressures and that we don’t

in the transport and logistics sector and be

work with,” he said.

continue to add to those burdens, because the

recognised with the same skill set and be held

“Our fundamentals are very simple. As

cost to our business by not managing that is

in the same regard as every other tradie in

government we want to get out of your way,

diabolical.”

Australia.”

we want less administration and we want you

Recommendations, according to Buchholz,

Prior to his political career Buchholz was

to be profitable.”

have come from his own office to the

involved in the freight and courier industry and

Buchholz also urged the industry to further

Treasurer’s office to change the timing of the

was a director of Central Queensland Express

take advantage of modern technology.

application of the tax concessions so that

Holdings and Toowoomba Express Couriers.

“Anyone in the room who is not embracing

access to the instant asset write off occurs

“On the upside I’m very bullish about the

technology at every level is doing themselves

at the time of the order, rather than upon

sector,” he said.

and their business an injustice.

delivery of the equipment.

“I know we have uncertainty at the moment

“Technology is going to drive our future,

“What we have recommended, because of the

because of the geo-political outlook with

whether it be through the prism of safety,

time delay in getting those pieces of capital

Ukraine with reference to fuel, and the

through seeing-eye technology, through

equipment into the yard with 12 or 18 months

pressures that brings to the uncertainty of the

driving efficiencies and looking for new

lead time for some equipment, I’ve asked for

supply chain out of China.

opportunities with technology.”

consideration be given to allow the deductions

“Boardrooms all around Australia at the

On the subject of rising fuel costs Buchholz

to happen when you place the order.”

moment are looking for ways to make

provided this strong advice: “Unless you

On another issue confronting the transport

investments that will give them security in their

understand your business with absolute

and logistics industry, Buchholz was supportive

supply chain, so they’re looking for alternative

granular clarity and where your expenditure

but cautious about the potential of driver and

suppliers even if it costs them a little bit more

is, and you have a mechanism to pass that

worker apprenticeship programs.

to head back into Europe to make those

on to your clients, if you’re not going to do it

“It’s not a silver bullet, it’s not a panacea

capital acquisitions.

you will not be in this conference room next

when we try to attract that next generation of

“We just need to have in the back of our mind

year.”

employees into our workforce,” he said. “From

that the freight task is going to double over

He acknowledged that the fuel price hike

a Federal Government perspective we have

the next couple of decades and there is an

will place inflationary pressures on the entire

made commitments to take Certificate III’s out

opportunity for each and every one of you to

supply chain and alluded to some concessions

and put them into a fully trade recognised

take advantage of that. If you’re going to be

which may be included in next week’s

(category) so we are able to get federal

around for the next couple of decades and

Budget.

funding. That way when parents tell their kids

take advantage of that growth, control your

“The only lever we have available to us is with

‘go and get yourself an apprenticeship and get

costs and stay profitable.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

Assistant Federal Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport, Scott Buchholz

Reddy unpacks the challenges of post-Covid recovery at VTA State Conference 2022 Speaking at the recent Victorian Transport

He also highlighted the complexity of the

Association (VTA) annual conference,

supply chain with its multi-facetted modes of

Executive Director, Freight Victoria at

transport including ships, trucks and rail.

Department of Transport, Praveen Reddy,

“One of the biggest challenges we face is

opened his address by saying he wasn’t going

the sheer volume of freight that needs to be

to talk about Covid this year.

delivered from our metropolitan to regional

“The last two-and-a-bit years have been

areas,” said Reddy.

unprecedented in terms of the resolve,

“With the return of workers to offices and

flexibility and adaptability of those in the

workplaces in Melbourne it will take a while

freight and logistics industry in responding to

before public transport is fully utilised, with

the Covid scenario,” said Reddy.

many people using their private cars to

“I want to acknowledge the tireless efforts

commute which adds congestion to the roads

of a workforce that has operated at elevated

and in turn affects freight movements.”

levels and under extreme pressure in order

He said the Department of Transport is

to keep things on track during this extremely

currently undertaking a study in conjunction

difficult time.

with Australia Post to determine how loading

“This has taken its toll on the mental health

zones can be better utilised to help freight

of many, so I want to encourage everyone

movements.

to look after each other and to seek help if

Touching on the level of infrastructure

things are getting too much to deal with.”

upgrades and the progressive nature of

precinct where there’s been a significant

With that he moved to the topic of diversity

the industry, Reddy said the general public

challenge over the last few years and where

in the industry, saying it was important to

needs to be made aware that this industry is

the NorthEast Link is being improved to help

open the door to as many people as possible

modern and efficient and one of the greatest

alleviate the bottleneck to freight movement

in order to meet the burgeoning demand.

contributors to economic growth.

in the area.

“We know the freight task is increasing,

“Victoria really is the heartland of freight in

“As we look to re-establish export markets,

along with e-commerce, and will continue

this country and having an efficient freight

we need to look at the whole supply chain

to do so for at least the next 30 years, so we

system is paramount – it’s really important we

from regional economies where goods are

need to continue encouraging people from all

continue to focus on the things that allow us

produced through to the overseas buyers and

walks of life to join the growing workforce,”

to have a sustainable freight sector,” he said.

make sure all measures are in place to ensure

he said.

He mentioned the north Melbourne industrial

the flow of goods is as efficient as it can be.”

Executive Director, Freight Victoria at Department of Transport, Praveen Reddy

Robots to bolster biosecurity Five remote-controlled robots are being tested

biosecurity officers during controlled, onsite

heavy agricultural machinery.

in a series of inspections, to see if they are

inspections using imported freight such as

“The units are fitted with high definition and

able to identify biosecurity risks on imported

sea containers, vehicles and heavy agricultural

thermal imaging cameras.

cargo.

machinery,” he said.

“They’re very slimline so they can be sent in

Minister for Agriculture and Northern

“The trial will take place at post-entry sites in

underneath consignments. Live footage of the

Australia David Littleproud said the Hades-5Z

Adelaide, Fremantle, Darwin and Brisbane

cargo underside can be viewed by officers on

robots are part of a $64,000 program funded

and are being run in collaboration with the

monitors,” he said.

by the government’s Biosecurity Innovation

New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries.”

Although the results may seem promising,

Program, designed to find out if the robots

David said the robots have “the potential

David assured that Hades-5Z would not

can safely and effectively identify risks.

to significantly reduce WHS risks” and can

replace valued staff. Technology continues to

“The robots will be put through their paces by

prevent officers from inspecting underneath

augment biosecurity efforts in Australia. www.trailermag.com.au

NEWS

Petroccitto flags new approach to risk management at VTA State Conference The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR)

it came to providing access permits.

has given a glimpse into its future approach

“I know that we normally cop the brunt of

to fatigue management and meeting the

a lot of complaints. As I’ve said many times

ongoing challenges around the permit

before we facilitate access. Our ability to

process for access networks at the VTA State

control what a road manager does and doesn’t

Conference.

do is as limited as yours,” he said.

In a keynote address, the NHVR CEO Sal

“What we both can agree on is the current

Petroccitto said a new approach to risk

system has to be fixed because it is not

management was currently underway in

sustainable,” said Petroccitto.

consultation with the industry.

At present some 150,000 permit applications

“The latest evidence we’re starting to see really

will be processed through the NHVR office this

needs to look at those issues around quality

year alone.

not just the quantities,” said Petroccitto.

That amounts to around 12,000 a month.

“A lot of factors impact on the individual

“Analysis tells us that 94 per cent of those

that might be driving their truck and also the

applications get approved,” said Petroccitto.

working environments and conditions play a

On that front he was dedicated to putting

key role.”

forth an approach involving operators and

assessments. To date, there was 24,000 assets

Petroccitto recognised a modern approach

the NHVR working together on a national

operating on local government networks.

would be required to tackle the issues around

reform of which the outcome would assist

“What we need to do is look at those critical

driver hours as the current system in place

in overcoming the access and productivity

assets on those critical freight routes and really

had proven flawed for many road transport

challenges that stakeholders and industry face

get a genuine understanding of the condition

operators.

daily.

to allow local governments to make those

“In some cases the current fatigue laws when

Networks would open up, under this model,

informed decisions to keep you productive,”

operators are compliant are unsafe and when

based on knowing and understanding the

said Petroccitto.

you’re non compliant you’re actually safe,” he

infrastructure capacity while identifying clear

“We are dedicated to working with those road

said.

no-go zones that are supported with an

managers to improve the system that opens

“We need to shift that focus of counting

investment approach.

up those productive networks.”

hours with providing you, as an industry,

“There’s no point having an HVNL network full

The information collated through the

the flexibility that your drivers need so they

of red dots if no one can get through those

management of the local government asset

can rest when they are tired and not when

red dots,” Petroccitto said.

program feeds into the NHVR’s single national

someone tells them to do so,” said Petroccitto.

The formal adoption of the NHVR’s strategic

spacial access map and enforceable heavy

“Obviously that needs to be done within those

local government asset assessment program

vehicle network map on one central repository.

hour limits. None of you are asking for more

and its national spacial mapping work,

“The mapping system will have google-based

hours. You’re just asking for that flexibility

together with additional funding from the

functionality [and] will really allow industry and

within those hours.”

federal government, were cited by Petroccitto

road managers to better plan their journeys

Technology would, as it does now, play a vital

as a way forward.

and manage access conditions en route and

role in the way the regulator recognised and

“Now in its third year that project is actually

will contain critical physical infrastructure

utilised fatigue detection technology.

assisting local government road managers

information as well,” said Petroccitto.

Petrocitto was hopeful he had the ear of

understand the condition of their bridges,” he

Dynamic routing on the map will enable

policymakers when it came to implementing

said.

industry to enter the vehicle dimensions

improvements to the current approaches.

“They can make those informed decisions.

and systems will automatically snap them

A strong commitment, according to

Close to 400 assessments had taken place

to a preferred group and identify if further

Petroccitto, was needed to challenge the

across local government areas with Round 2

assessments are required.

current approaches and the reform of what

set to commence shortly.

The system will be built upon the work that

was an onerous and unworkable system when

It was likely to include another 1,000

has already been done in Tasmania. At a state

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto

level Tasmania will be expanded to a national

that consistent risk-based regulatory functions

In the coming weeks the NHVR will begin a

system to ensure it works across all the

that we undertake.”

trial with several road freight operators who

jurisdictions the NHVR work with.

What Petroccitto called the ‘inform, educate

will be given access to company compliance

Achieving that national consistency was one

and enforce’ approach was proving effective

information through the portal. If that proves

of the largest hurdles for the NHVR but it

as the NHVR began to shift away from heavy

successful the intent is for the NHVR to

was well underway despite the immensity of

handed on-road compliance activity to a focus

share more information it has captured with

the challenges inherent in a national reform

geared around engagement.

industry.

project.

He denied, however, that the change in focus

Petroccitto is hopeful it will deliver more

By the middle of 2022 the NHVR projects it will

would bring about a softer regulator.

functionality for heavy vehicle operators by

have transferred the NSW services for heavy

“We’re still using the powers that we have

facilitating a greater responsibility that will in

vehicle compliance over to it.

when we need to,” said Petroccitto.

turn lead to a proactive application of how

That will see the NHVR almost double in size.

“But our view is if we don’t bring you along

they manage their fleet.

It will, according to Petroccitto, bring with it

the journey with a consultative and educative

In this way the NHVR will get to use some

more complexities and also more capabilities.

process we’re not really changing the

of the other regulatory provisions it has in its

That program has been three years in the

agenda.”

toolkit.

making.

The accumulation of data, for instance, was

“We’re considered quite unique because we’re

The reform agenda, Petrocitto maintained, was

pointless if the regulator had no way of using

both a productivity and safety regulator,”

right and too important to give up on.

it as part of the education process.

continued Petroccitto. “I fundamentally

“We have to embrace reform in a faster and

“We’re looking at how we can start to share

believe the two are critical and need to go

more productive manner if we are to remain

that information and we want to share that

hand in hand. The more productive a business

truly competitive,” he said.

information back with you. This way we

is the more it can invest in safety,” he said.

“We know when we do transition one of the

believe that you can manage your safety in a

“The safer a business is the more productive

greatest benefits for the industry will come in

more timely manner,” Petroccitto said.

it can be.”

Government’s progress on making our roads safer The State Government has now delivered

• A review of all Main Roads tender

roadwork sites for workers and all road

seven of its 13 identified recommendations to

documentation and evaluation criteria

improve safety at regional roadwork sites in

to ensure temporary traffic management

Western Australia.

requirements are given increased focus and

of new or alternative sign-mounting

The Regional Roadworks Signage Review,

consideration.

solutions to enable signs to remain visible

completed late last year, looked at how

• The establishment of clearer lines of

temporary traffic signage at roadwork sites

traffic management accountability and

are installed, secured and managed in regional

responsibility on all roadwork sites across

areas. The report came up with 13 recommendations

the State. • Updating Main Roads’ standards and

users. • The assessment and implementation

and upright. • Focused questions about roadworks to be included in driver theory testing. • Updates in the Drive Safe and Ride Safe handbooks incorporating roadworks

and 21 specific actions designed to improve

specifications to expand the use of Portable

the safety of construction workers and road

Traffic Control Devices to improve the safety

Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the State

of traffic controllers.

has made great progress with these actions,

users in regional roadwork sites. The Government’s already completed actions include:

• Ongoing training and education campaigns to highlight the safety risks at regional

material.

and the committee is focused on completing them in the near future. www.trailermag.com.au

ECONOMY

Leading the way in hydrogen fuel accessibility VIVA ENERGY DESCRIBED A NEW ENERGIES SERVICE STATION IN GEELONG, VICTORIA, AS A MARKET LEADING DEVELOPMENT IN AUSTRALIA, COMPARABLE WITH OTHER LARGE COMMERCIAL REFUELLING INFRASTRUCTURE INSTALLATIONS WORLDWIDE. Energy company, Viva Energy, is developing

stations along major commercial road

Transport and logistics company, Toll Group,

a New Energies Service Station in Geelong.

transport routes between Melbourne and

will provide two hydrogen-powered prime

Alongside electric vehicle recharging, the

Sydney, and onto Brisbane.

movers deployed for the delivery of Viva

service station will offer public refuelling of

The project is structured to achieve a

Energy liquid fuels to its customers across

hydrogen powered heavy vehicles (trucks

commercial return in-line with the company’s

South Western Victoria.

and buses) operating within the Geelong

projected energy transition growth strategy,

Toll envisions that this project will be a

region, making it one of Australia’s most

with the broader opportunity providing large

catalyst for a network of hydrogen refuelling

ambitious hydrogen mobility projects.

long-term upside potential.

stations from Geelong to Sydney and onto

The project forms part of Viva Energy’s vision

It is expected to commence operations in

Brisbane.

for a Geelong Energy Hub, which will see

late 2023.

“We’re proud to lead the industry and

Geelong become a leader in commercial

At least 15 hydrogen-powered heavy vehicles

partner with Viva Energy to develop the

deployment of hydrogen-powered electric

are expected to be deployed within the first

future of zero-emissions transport for

vehicles.

two years of operations, with significant

heavy vehicles,” said Toll Group Managing

“With this project, Viva Energy has brought

scope to expand further as the commercial

Director, Thomas Knudsen. “We believe

together commercial fleet operators,

opportunity is proven.

in the potential for hydrogen to deliver a

government and vehicle manufacturers to

The first seven vehicles will be purchased

carbon free energy solution for the transport

develop a commercially viable, hydrogen-

and deployed by Viva Energy partners with

industry and this project is our first step on

focused service station that will support the

operations in Geelong.

this journey.”

transition to a zero-emissions energy solution

These include Toll Group, Cleanaway,

Viva Energy said it was currently in

in the large and growing commercial

ComfortdelGro Corporate Australia (CDC)

discussions with several other potential

transport sector,” Viva Energy said in a

and Barwon Water.

customers and hydrogen vehicle

statement.

Some of the vehicles will be delivered by

manufacturers and expects to see growing

This initial service station is the first step

Hyzon Motors out of Europe and Australia

demand over time as hydrogen electric

in the company’s longer term plans to be

and CDC’s two buses will be manufactured

vehicles become more prevalent in the

a leader in refuelling a growing hydrogen

and delivered by Australian-based

market.

powered fleet, and establish a nationwide

manufacturer, Aluminium Revolutionary

The project will incorporate an onsite 2MW

refuelling network at its existing service

Chassis Company (ARCC).

electrolyser to generate green hydrogen

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

AUSTRALIAN CONSUMER CONFIDENCE 25

23 19

grant from the Australian Renewable

10 5

-5

-6 -10 -12

Jul 2021

Advancing Renewables Program, and $1M

Oct 2021

Jan 2022

0.1%

1.5%

81.61%

INTEREST RATE JANUARY 2022

INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTION SEPTEMBER 2021

CAPACITY UTILISATION JANUARY 2022

the Renewable Hydrogen Commercialisation Pathways Fund. “Viva Energy will contribute $11M

Apr 2021

Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of ARENA’s from the Victorian Government as part of

-7

The project has received a $22.8 million

-20

towards the service station and electrolyser infrastructure, and our partners will contribute $8.5M towards vehicle deployment and the purchase of hydrogen,” the company said in a statement. The solar project is funded on a stand-alone basis by Viva Energy, and is expected to cost approximately $20 million. “We’re grateful for the hydrogen vehicle funding support provided by the federal government through ARENA and for the Victorian Government’s contribution to

from renewable electricity and recycled

vision to reduce its own Scope 2 emissions

the project,” said Knudsen. “Collaboration

water from Barwon Water’s Northern Water

profile.

between government and industry is the

Plant.

The solar farm is expected to generate

best way to advance Australia’s renewable

Viva Energy also aims to build an initial

electricity at a price that compares

energy goals and for industry to reduce their

15MW (expandable to ~20MW) capacity

favourably to the forecast Victorian grid

carbon footprint.”

solar farm on available land at Geelong

electricity prices.

The new station, located on the corner of

Refinery.

Total project costs for the service station,

Station Street and the Princes Highway at

The solar farm adds a ‘behind the meter’

electrolyser and contribution towards the

the entrance to Geelong Refinery, will be

renewable generation asset to the Energy

funding of hydrogen- powered vehicles is

Australia’s first publicly accessible hydrogen

Hub, and supports the company’s broader

expected to be approximately $43.3 million.

refuelling location for heavy vehicles.

Toll Group Head of Government and Regulatory Affairs Leigh Obradovic, Toll Group Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Zed Ivankovic, Assistant Minister to Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Tim Wilson, and Toll Group interim EGM Resources and Industrials, Gary Allen.

www.trailermag.com.au

MODERN ROAD TANKERS

Pivotal partnerships TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS COMPANY, TOLL, HAS EXPANDED ITS FLEET WITH LPG TANKERS FROM HOLMWOOD HIGHGATE WHICH FEATURES THE LATEST PRECICONTROL METERING SYSTEMS FROM ALFONS HAAR. The Dangerous Goods freight task typically

combinations fitted with the latest Alfons

LPG tankers for some 30-years, but since

calls for the use of of specialised road

Haar metering systems.

there are no longer any local manufacturers,

transport equipment. Prominent leading

In related news, Mark Stables – Managing

we saw a need to provide the Australian

national carriers such as Toll adhere to

Director of the Holmwood Group of

market with a quality product,” he says.

rigorous standards to ensure the health

Companies Victoria – says Holmwood is now

“Introducing the latest vessel manufacturing

and safety of staff and the general

an exclusive Australian distributor for Sica

technologies and materials allows for

public. To maintain this safety mindset,

Muller pressure vessels and tankers.

lighter tare weights and higher payloads.

while leveraging industry-leading gains

“This distribution relationship marks the

Through careful design of the shell we have

in efficiency, the business has invested in

return of Holmwood to the LPG tanker

significantly reduced the tare weight of this

quality Holmwood Highgate LPG road tanker

market – Holmwood have not manufactured

tanker.” Both Sica Muller and Holmwood Highgate prefer to almost exclusively install Alfons Haar PreciCONTROL metering systems according to Mark. “The end user has been a long-term customer of Haar Australia’s pumping and metering systems so this project was the perfect opportunity to bring all four companies together and showcase a modern LPG bulk tanker with a high speed metering system,” he says – adding Holmwood were pivotal in partnering with Haar Australia to bring the very first PreciCONTROL metering systems to the Australian fuel market with almost 10 years of experience. “We are once again leading the field in introducing the LPG market to the PreciGAS metering system.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

Alfons Haar is a major global supplier of

moving parts, we provide a highly accurate

up phase, keeping the neighbours happier.

liquid metering systems including LPG.

measurement device which does not lose

Haar Australia and Holmwood Highgate have

In particular, Haar Australia have been

accuracy over time, as other systems can

worked closely together to bring this system

supplying the PreciCONTROL family of

do. By using PreciCONTROL technology and

to market and are excited to pursue further

metering systems to the Australian tanker

automation we eliminate the DP valve, which

opportunities together in this space.

industry for more than a decade.

enables better flow rates, less load on the

“The family of PreciCONTROL metering

pump and simplified pipework. Through our

Contact

systems share common hardware and a

system automation we regulate the pump

Holmwood Highgate

common user interface and are all deployed

run time for reduced energy consumption

using the well-known PreciBUS intrinsically

and hardware wear and can also control the

safe control system,” says Haar Australia

vehicle and Power-Take-off (PTO) start/stop

founder and Managing Director, Ivan

for total automation of the delivery.”

Lawrie. “PreciGAS is a dedicated high

Ivan says this tanker also uses Haar Australia’s

accuracy vehicle-based LPG metering system

pneumatic rewind LPG hosereels which are

with no moving parts. LPG is an abrasive

totally silent and do not require the prime

liquid so by using a venturi meter with no

mover to be running during the delivery pack-

Queensland 20-26 Burchill street Loganholme QLD 4129 Ph: 07 3440 9000 Victoria 425 Fitzgerald Road Derrimut VIC 3026 Phone: 03 9936 0360 Web: www.holmwoodhighgate.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

MODERN ROAD TANKERS

Floating experience POISED TO SATURATE THE MARKET, AAA TRAILERS HAS A VARIETY OF WATER TANKERS AVAILABLE FOR IMMEDIATE USE. AAA Trailers is an Australian manufacturer

unbeatable prices and superior quality.”

that has built a reputation around quality

In addition to providing quality road

engineering with affordability front of mind

transport equipment spec’d for specific

for fleet operators and transport businesses.

applications, AAA Trailers also provides a

Fast Fact

The trailer builder provides three different

12-month warranty on all of its trailers.

The 28,000-litre potable drinking

water tankers for industry, including: a

“Our 32,000-litre spray Water Tank is

water tank is internally coated for

32,000-litre water tanker with spray; a

equipped with a large tank in the rear for

drinking water with certification.

22,000-litre water tank A trailer; and a

transporting water and controlled spray

The tank material is carbon steel

28,000-litre potable drinking water tank.

nozzles for distributing it,” says AAA Trailers.

with a thickness of 5mm. The

“Our multipurpose and affordable Water

“Our water tank can be used in a variety of

chassis is high-tensile steel and

tanks are built for all Australian landscapes

sectors such as civil construction, mining,

other features include heavy duty

and designed for Australian conditions,”

farming and fire control.”

Fuwa K-Hitch tri-axle, heavy duty

says the team at AAA Trailers. “We are confident here at AAA Trailers that our water tankers will last a lifetime. We sold more than a hundred 32,000-litre spray water tanks in 2021 because of our

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

Contact AAA Trailers 159 Walker Street Helensburgh NSW 2508 Ph: 02 9188 3322 Web: www.aaatrailers.com.au

Fuwa K-Hitch spring suspension, two-speed JOST landing legs, a 50mm JOST kingpin and six 430mm manholes on the top of the tank.

Fast Fact The 22,000-litre water tank A trailer is 11.09m in length and features similar high quality components to the 32,000-litre variant.

Fast Fact With access to a wide range of trailing equipment stock – including drop decks, flat decks, low loaders, wideners, extendables and tankers – transport businesses can depend on AAA Trailers for swift delivery.

Fast Fact The 32,000-litre water tanker with spray is 10.62m in length and features tank material Q345 with a thickness of 5mm, two-speed Fuwa K-Hitch landing legs, dual spare wheel carriage, high-tensile steel chassis, heavy duty Fuwa K-Hitch tri-axle and spring suspension, 11R22.5 tyres on 10-stud steel rims, top of tank install handrail, stainless steel hose trays and a spare wheel. The water pipe is three inches and comes with a hydraulic motor and pump.

www.trailermag.com.au

MODERN ROAD TANKERS

Access made easy: Get to know the new Liquip swing hatch THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AUSTRALIAN STANDARD AS2809:2020 HAS SPAWNED A NEW ERA IN TANKER EQUIPMENT FROM LEADING TANKER EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER, LIQUIP INTERNATIONAL. THE LAUNCH OF THE SH450 SERIES SWING HATCH IS THE LATEST DEVELOPMENT IN LIQUIP’S TANKER EQUIPMENT RANGE TO BE RELEASED. When it comes to transporting hazardous

its new low profile SH450 series swing

available when it’s needed most - to protect

chemicals and aviation fuels in tankers,

hatch, with a generous opening diameter of

drivers, the public and the environment.

there’s nothing more critical from a safety

450mm, to not only meet but go beyond the

For the double drop test, the hatch is

perspective than containing the liquid inside

requirements of the AS2809:2020 standard.

the tanker even under the most extreme

The Liquip SH450 swing hatch is double

situations such as a rollover or severe rear-

drop tested to simulate multi-impact forces

Fast Fact

end shunt. This is where a hatch assembly

that occur during rollover incidents. All

Liquip can also supply hatch weather

really earns its stripes.

testing is undertaken by Liquip onsite at

covers compatible with the new

With the above firmly at the forefront, Liquip

its Sydney manufacturing facility, ensuring

SH450 series swing hatch.

has developed and comprehensively tested

the highest level of product containment is

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

attached to a certified drop test apparatus,

Liquip’s new swing hatch also includes an

hatch range, ensuring the new model not

which simulates a full compartment of

integral emergency vent and provision for a

only meets but exceeds market expectations

product, and is dropped from a height of

pressure vacuum vent.

and regulatory requirements.

1.2 metres. It then undergoes a secondary

Another key addition to the SH450 swing

In addition, the SH450 hatch is available and

drop from a height of one metre. This

hatch are four newly designed handles

supported through all leading OEM tanker

accurately replicates the savage forces of a

and swing pins which are now made

manufacturers and Liquip’s Australia wide

tanker’s initial impact and often subsequent

from stainless steel for increased chemical

distributor network.

secondary impact during a rollover event.

resistance, durability and quick access.

The SH450 series hatch is available in

These ultra user-friendly locking assemblies

For more information contact

many configurations based on a range of

can be installed and operated without

sales@liquip.com

seal materials (Teflon, Viton or Buna) and

tools.

coaming materials (aluminium, stainless steel

As the AS2809:2020 change neared closer,

or mild steel).

the team at Liquip listened and worked

The SH450 can be effortlessly incorporated

closely with leading tank manufacturers, its

into a wide variety of applications such as tank

distributors and longtime end users to build

containers, road tankers and storage tanks.

on the features of its hugely popular swing

Contact Liquip International 148 Newton Road Wetherill Park NSW 2164 Ph: 02 9725 9000 Web: www.liquip.com

www.trailermag.com.au

TRAILER BUILDER

Ongoing ventures FANTASTIC SERVICE IS SYNONYMOUS WITH VAWDREY AUSTRALIA AS LEIGH NAUGHTON OF NAUGHTON TRANSPORT SERVICES CAN ATTEST TO. THE SUCCESS OF HIS FLEET CAN BE ATTRIBUTED IN PART TO THE TIMELY DELIVERY OF HIGH PRODUCTIVITY VAWDREY TRAILERS INCLUDING THE MOST RECENT ACQUISITION WHICH JUST SO HAPPENS TO BE THE LARGEST PERFORMANCE-BASED STANDARDS APPROVED UNIT VAWDREY HAS EVER PRODUCED. As a prominent and leading manufacturer

Vawdrey have always been in the picture.

commenced operations from its base in

of trailers of the highest quality across

“If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I

Dandenong, Victoria. Over the years the

Australia, Vawdrey also plays a key role in

am today,” he says – adding that the ‘can do’

business ventured into interstate general

the development of fleets such as Naughton

attitude of the entire Vawdrey team has been

freight and branched into high-cubic

Transport Services. According to Naughton

key to their long and successful partnership.

Transport Services Director, Leigh Naughton,

In 1954, Naughton Transport Services

transport solutions to maximise productivity gains. The fleet currently manages two depots, Melbourne and Sydney, and runs 32 wellserviced heavy vehicles which are crucial to the success of the company as well as the broader partnership between Naughton and Vawdrey. Leigh has a passion for the transport industry and is adamant that the business doesn’t work unless the team works together. “Naughton Transport Services has worked with Vawdrey Australia for 30 memorable years,” Leigh says. He adds the latest Vawdrey trailer investment is mainly due to the size and payload capacity. “Our trailers need to be large enough to carry the required freight to the destination, whether it be in Sydney or Melbourne.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

The fleet also requires someone to go through the Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and vehicle standards to ensure optimal compliance and truck-trailer utility – something Vawdrey also excels at. This Performance-Based Standards (PBS) approved 32-pallet single drop deck Titeliner is the biggest trailer Vawdrey has ever built. It also features the latest LatchLiner curtain technology which ensures safe, efficient loading and unloading for vehicle operators. The robust construction of the latch and hook mechanism of the curtain assemblies ensure a long service life, too. The aftersales support that Naughton Transport receives from Vawdrey, according to Leigh, is above and beyond. “The Vawdrey team are quick and their allround service works well,” he says. “It’s also important for us to have access to Vawdrey personnel to boost our heavy vehicle uptime. The fact that Vawdrey is a family owned and operated business means they are authentic, approachable and get the job done without a fuss. At the end of the day they’re fantastic and are always around when needed.” Leigh takes a hands-on approach to

and improved safety. There is also the

partnership with Vawdrey is as strong as ever

managing and operating Naughton

community aspect of the partnership with

and we continue to thrive as a result.”

Transport Services. In addition to relying on

reference to success achieved between the

his own staff, he praises Vawdrey for being

Melbourne and Sydney depots.

a fantastic company and for offering great

“At the end of the day, if I haven’t got a

flexibility in their working relationship as well

positive relationship with a staff supplier,

as providing state-of-the-art road transport

the business won’t succeed,” Leigh says.

technology that enables higher productivity

“I’m glad to report that in this instance our

Contact Vawdrey Australia 1-53 Quantum Close Dandenong South VIC 3175 Ph: 03 9797 3700 Web: www.vawdrey.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

TRAILER BUILDER

Championing grain haulage with BRE A-doubles A 30M PBS A-DOUBLE COMBINATION FROM BRUCE ROCK ENGINEERING HAS SO FAR TICKED ALL THE RIGHT BOXES FOR TGR TRANSPORT’S REQUIREMENTS – FROM PAYLOAD GAINS TO EASE OF USE AND RELIABILITY. TGR Transport took delivery of its first set

with optimum strength. All BRE trailers are

Although belly dumpers may not be as

of 30m Performance Based Standards

available with different combinations of

versatile as end tippers, they certainly offer

(PBS) A-double trailer from Bruce Rock

equipment such as air-bag suspension, disc

substantial benefits by means of lighter tare

Engineering (BRE) earlier this year, and the

brake axles and Alcoa aluminium wheels.

weight and efficiency,” he says.

team is already looking forward to taking

Tom almost stumbled upon his first BRE

For Tom, the lighter tare weight and ease of

delivery of its second set later this year.

B-double trailer. Even though he had heard

loading and unloading were major factors.

Geelong-based TGR is a family-owned and

good things about BRE and its product

The other aspect was safety.

operated national freight carrier established

offering, he didn’t purchase one until early

“The unit provides stability while unloading,

in 2009 by Managing Director Tom Allen.

2020. While looking around for a used set

there is no risk of tipping or hitting overhead

The business specialises in transport of

that best fit his grain haulage requirements,

structures while unloading, and there is

bulk grain, general, machinery, and rural

Tom came across a demo BRE model that

minimum dust during unloading. The multiple

freight, shipping containers, and mining and

seemed to fit the bill. Impressed with the

compartments also provide for better weight

construction machinery.

solid build and good price, Tom picked up

distribution and the option to load different

Such wide application means TGR owns and

his first BRE set. With use over the months,

commodities in the one trailer. BRE belly

operates a dependable range of vehicles and

he realised that the set was also reliable,

dumpers are really hard to beat on the grain

equipment to do the job. Its current range of

efficient, safe and easy to operate.

job.”

six Kenworth prime movers combined with

For his next combination from BRE, Tom

Coming from a mechanical engineering

BRE-built B-doubles and road trains make

went for a 30m PBS A-double twin hopper

background Tom has a solid understanding

any job easy. TGR purchased its first BRE

set. BRE hopper trailers are dependable,

of good design and structure, and he

grain belly dumper two years ago.

robust, and allow grain unloading with

feels BRE has it down pat. BRE is a leading

Bruce Rock trailers are designed with

precision. There are huge productivity gains

manufacturer of PBS combinations that

quality material and offer low tare weight

too. “We get the highest payload per truck.

allow significant increases to payload, while

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

also improving the on-road behaviour of the vehicle, resulting in an environmentally friendly, safe and efficient vehicle. “PBS seems to be the way of the future for HPV’s (High Productivity Vehicles), and the cost of becoming PBS approved is now a lot more affordable than it was two years ago. Being based in Geelong, the only way we can run a Road Train, or A-double as they are referred to in Victoria, is to have the entire combination PBS approved. “The mechanical aspect of the trailers is very impressive. Our trailers and dollies are fitted with WABCO ABS/EBS and Airtec OBM (On Board Mass) gauges. “The prime mover is fitted with a TMA (Telematics Monitoring Application) device from V-DAQ.” The trailers are performing well and have not had any major service needs – another win for TGR. Contact Bruce Rock Engineering Ph: 08 9061 1253 Web: www.brucerockengineering.com.au

monroe.com.au

BUILT TO LAST

Double action valving system in bump & rebound High Temp resistant hydraulic fluid Hydraulic lock-out piston for improved safety Single bonded bushing for improved durability

With over 100 years of experience in every shock absorber, you know they’re built to last. www.trailermag.com.au

TRAILER BUILDING MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

Forging ahead with Allison HEAVY HYDRAULICS HAS SEEN A CONTINUOUS SURGE IN POPULARITY OF OMFB PRODUCTS SINCE INTRODUCING THE ITALIAN RANGE TWO YEARS AGO. Rubbish trucks are loud enough anyway,

unbeatable selection of OMFB PTOs to suit

without being woken up at 5am by the

Allison transmissions.

winning formula that saw the business grow into other regions within a short

raucous whine of one fitted with an inferior

One of the fastest growing hydraulic

space of time.

power take-off (PTO). That’s just one

transport solution providers in Australia,

Today, Heavy Hydraulics is known as a

example of the thousands of ways that

Heavy Hydraulics is also known for its expert

national distributor of quality manufactured

Allison transmissions service the transport

knowledge of Allison transmissions and the

hydraulic transport products that are globally

industry daily and, where fitted with an

PTO options that exist for them. It also has a

recognised. It offers an extensive range of

unrefined PTO, they have been known to be

wide range of other highly engineered and

products to suit all types of applications,

noisy in operation. Engineers at OMFB set

innovative transport hydraulic products from

including PTOs, gear pumps, piston pumps,

out to overcome this aspect and in 2020 the

OMFB, to offer across its branches in Sydney,

control valves, hydraulic tanks, cylinders and

manufacturer released its Precision range of

Adelaide and Perth.

control systems.

low-noise units. The performance exceeded

Heavy Hydraulics’ parent company, Heavy

For Heavy Hydraulics, having OMFB products

all expectations, with the company now

Automatics, has been operating for over 30

in its catalogue is an ace up the sleeve that

being confident in claiming the product to

years and is the largest Allison Transmission

may have something to do with its growing

be the quietest on the market.

distributor in the Asia Pacific region. The

success. The same can be said for the

OMFB’s latest development is a range

Heavy Hydraulics arm was co-founded by

OMFB range in Australia. “OMFB and Heavy

of heavy-duty units – offering up to a

Michael Applebee and Danny Guthrie six

Hydraulics have together created a trusting

whopping 700Nm of torque – with units

years ago, creating a unique combination of

team that is mutually beneficial. Since

already working in the field and showing

experience and expertise across transmission

we’ve come onboard with OMFB, they have

promising results. Heavy Hydraulics offers an

and power take-off products alike. It’s this

added more to our product portfolio than we originally had. We’ve also been able to focus on areas that we traditionally hadn’t,” Michael says. “We offer hydraulic solutions from OMFB for all types of applications within the transport industry. We would have the biggest Allison PTO range in the country. We have complete knowledge of the product range, and also service the product nationally.” Michael, who has worked in the truck hydraulics side of the industry for over 25 years, has extensive knowledge of the Allison product range. “I’ve been in the industry long enough to know all the different brands and I knew that OMFB has a very solid reputation for making quality products. Therefore I was really humbled to be approached by them to become a national distributor in 2020. Having local support in Australia, and support from the manufacturing team in Italy, we get best of both worlds.” OMFB’s product range covers all transport industry applications from waste and concrete trucks and tippers to truckmounted cranes and vacuum trucks. “One

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

PTO SOLUTION

of the unique features of the Allison transmission is the ability to control the hydraulic system while the vehicle is in motion. The fully automatic transmissions

OMFB offers some of the best-quality products in the industry. The Allison PTO units are quite compact and lightweight.

have a global reputation for quality and reliability, which is why they’re the most

range of applications. It is also important for

have been happy with the performance.

popular transmission used in the market today.

our customers that these products are quiet

“We’ve had great experience working with

pag.1 in operation. This is a huge plus compared

OMFB. As a national distributor we look

“OMFB offers some of the best-quality

to some other PTOs thatHydraulic can be quite noisy. forward to further developing our working O.M.F.B. S.p.A. Components We reserve the right to make any changes without notice. TheyEdition cover2021.02 everything the market relationship to capture the full potential of No reproduction, howeverexpects partial, is in permitted.

products in the industry. The Allison PTO units are quite compact and lightweight.

Via Cave, 7/9 25050 Provaglio d’Iseo (Brescia) Italy Tel.: +39.030.9830611 the PTO range.” the Australian Fax: +39.030.9839207-208 Internet:www.omfb.it e-mail:contatti@omfb.it

They are very versatile in being able to

Heavy Hydraulics’ customers rate the OMFB

adapt to different requirements. There are

range very highly. In the past two years,

various options covering different ratios,

Michael and his team have recommended

outputs, and power requirements, to suit a

OMFB products to many customers, who

market.”

Contact OMFB Pacific Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9330 2694 Web: www.omfbpacific.com

www.trailermag.com.au

TRAILER BUILDING MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

Primary Connect and SAF lead innovation with e-axle trial A NEW E-AXLE TRAILER IS HELPING TO REDUCE EMISSIONS AND ENABLE MORE SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN OPERATIONS Electric axle trailers have been undergoing

from its own axle and wheels to generate

refrigeration system being used for an

testing around the world and in an Australia-

electricity. This electricity feeds a battery,

average of eight hours per day. Given the

first move, SAF-Holland is currently testing

which can run the refrigeration system

minimum life of a trailer is 10 years, the new

the success of its new e-axle trailer in

and reduce the diesel consumption. The

e-axle trailer would save more than 5,000

partnership with Woolworths’ logistics arm

removal of both diesel generators and 200

litres of fuel per annum equating to 13.2

Primary Connect. The aim of the new trailer

litre fuel tanks means with the use of this

tonnes of CO2 over that period.

is to reduce fuel consumption by capitalising

trailer, carbon dioxide (CO2) and particulate

“The trial not only helps reduce emissions,

on the power created by the movement of

emissions are significantly reduced.

but also runs more quietly, meaning less

the truck on the road.

“We’re pleased to have had the opportunity

disruption through residential community

The new trailer has been developed in

to put the first e-axle trailer on the road

areas,” Primary Connect National Fleet

partnership with trailer builder MaxiTRANS,

in Australia,” Primary Connect General

Manager, Phillip Farrugia, says.

refrigerated system provider Carrier

Manager Strategy and Partnerships, Ben

“We’ll keep a close eye on the impact of this

Transicold that supplied the fridge and

Newton, says.

technology on our emissions profile and look

battery system, and axle manufacturer SAF-

“At Woolworths, we want to build a better

at its potential for broader deployment across

Holland.

tomorrow for generations to come, and this

the fleet. We’re grateful to Carrier Transicold,

The trailer is currently being trialled

is an important step in our path towards

SAF-Holland and MaxiTRANS for their

in Queensland. If proved successful,

reducing emissions in our road transport

assistance in bringing this new and exciting

Woolworths and Primary Connect plan to

operations.”

technology to Australia for the first time.”

scale the new technology across its fleet of

Trailers throughout the Primary Connect

SAF-Holland Australia Sales Director, Stephen

over 800 refrigerated trailers.

fleet normally consume two litres of fuel

Vranesic, is proud to partner with Primary

The innovative trailer uses kinetic energy

per hour (16 litres per day), with each trailer

Connect in what is the nation’s first step into

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

the successful application of energy axles for

each year. The business supports over 1,200

and we are delighted to have partnered with

refrigerated trailing equipment.

external customers, including Woolworths.

Woolworths Group to deliver the first unit of

“This e-axle development is a first for

“When it comes to innovation, our ultimate

its kind in Australia.”

Australia,” he says. “SAF-Holland is

goal is to develop solutions that matter for

The e-axle trailer is one of the many

delighted to support Primary Connect’s

people and the planet, a value we share with

sustainability initiatives across the group,

commitment to operate as efficiently

Woolworths Group’s Primary Connect,” says

supporting delivery of a 63 percent reduction

and safely as possible through the use of

Stephen Elford, Carrier Transicold Australia-

in Scope 1 emissions by 2030.

innovative technologies.”

New Zealand’s Managing Director.

Primary Connect operates the largest food

“We believe the Vector eCool represents the

and grocery supply chain in Australia, with

future of refrigerated trailer technology. This

over 7,500 employees across 18 distribution

fully electric trailer refrigeration unit operates

centres. Working with 86 transport carriers,

autonomously without the need for a diesel

Primary Connect moves more than 20 million

engine. It’s one of the most exciting new

pallets of product to more than 3,000 stores

products we have ever brought to market,

Contact SAF-Holland 115 High Street Melton VIC 3337 Ph: 03 9971 7900 Customer Support: 1300 131 613 Web: www.safholland.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

TRAILER BUILDING MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

Boomerang keeps coming back to Capral FOR A VERY LONG TIME THROUGHOUT ITS 50-PLUS YEARS, PERTHBASED BOOMERANG ENGINEERING HAS TRUSTED CAPRAL’S EXTRUSION CAPABILITIES AND ALUMINIUM SUPPLY TO BUILD QUALITY TRANSPORT, MINING, AGRICULTURAL AND CIVIL CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT. When two Australian heavyweights come

and even now we have custom-made dies

together to produce transport equipment,

and special materials made with Capral

About Capral

you can be sure it is going to be good.

material.”

Established in 1936, Capral is

Capral and Boomerang Engineering have

Capral has capabilities to produce exactly

Australia’s largest manufacturer

been working together to for many decades,

what customers like Boomerang Engineering

and distributor of aluminium

enabling Boomerang Engineering to deliver

require for their manufacturing needs,

products today. It supports a wide

solid trailers, tippers, and other transport and

including cut to length material, long length

range of Australian industries

mining equipment to local and international

extrusions up to 17m and long length plate

including residential and commercial

markets.

up to 12m. Capral also offers aluminium

building, transport, marine, defence

“Boomerang uses a lot of Capral aluminium

processing solutions and can provide

and industrial sectors. Capral

to build our grain trailers and aluminium side

slotting, routing, drilling, punching, mitre

has manufacturing facilities in

tippers,” Boomerang Sales Technical Support

cutting, knurling, de-burring, sheet and plate

Queensland, New South Wales,

Manager, Daniel Hoschke, says. “The

routing, cutting and bending to streamline

Victoria, South Australia and

majority of our trailer material is supplied

customer manufacturing processes.

Western Australia, employing

by Capral. Our manufacturing is based in

“Capral’s extrusion capabilities are second-

over 900 people locally. Its eight

Western Australia, but we sell our products

to-none,” Daniel says. “Over the years

extrusion presses manufacture over

across Australia and to a global market

we have had many, many custom-made

75,000 tonnes of products every

Boomerang Engineering and Capral have

extrusions with Capral. Boomerang works

year and deliver them through its six

been working together for a very long time.

with Capral to get the specialised material

manufacturing plants and seventeen

Back in the day, Capral used to organise a

that we need for our manufacturing needs,

trade centres across the country.

lot of our aluminium sandcasting moulds,

and they design and deliver these custom-

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

made extrusions to Boomerang exactly how

With worldwide shipping disruptions caused

continued to operate at near full capacity

we want them. A lot of our specialised

as a result of Covid-19, many manufacturers

through Stage 4 restrictions.

products have very specific materials, their

in Australia that were sourcing materials

“Covid has created a lot of shipping issues

own specific shapes and we source them

from overseas saw major delays. However,

and that affected materials supply, but

from Capral. They are always willing to

for Boomerang Engineering having a local

Capral has been quite consistent,” Daniel

work with us to design our custom material

aluminium supplier helped to minimise

says. “Certain materials are very hard to

extrusions, which makes our job easier. We

interruptions. Being Boomerang’s main

come by at the moment, but Capral has

are very happy with the service the Capral

supplier, Capral made sure the manufacturer

kept up to our requirements and met all our

team provide. They come and see us every

did not face materials delay. Once the

needs, which is great for us.”

couple of weeks to make sure everything is

initial restrictions of 2020 lifted, Capral’s

Capral has a wide distribution network

good. They deliver on time, which is a big

operations rebounded, and its Victorian

across Australia that ensures all its aluminium

plus, and we don’t have issues ever.”

manufacturing and distribution facilities

extrusions and rolled materials are supplied to the customers quickly. Capral also offers next day delivery service that helps customers reduce stock inventory, warehouse space and manufacturing time. The service extends to custom pieces in various lengths and sizes, and even full kits ready for manufacturing refrigerated trailers, tippers, flat tops, recreational vehicles and box trailers. “We have produced more aluminium trailers in the last couple of years than we have done in Boomerang’s history,” Daniel says. “It is one of the biggest growth elements for us. And all of those new builds have been carried out using Capral materials.” Contact Capral Ph: 1800 258 646 Web: www.capral.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

TRAILER BUILDING MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

High energy products and partnerships STANDARDISING ON LUCIDITY LIGHTING EQUIPMENT FOR ITS NEW BUILDS IN LATE 2019 WAS A SOUND BUSINESS DECISION ACCORDING TO ALUMINIUM TIPPER AND BODY BUILDING SPECIALIST, BORCAT TRAILERS. From the earliest days of 1958 right through

on the trailers easier and more efficient.

“The circuits are very reliable and designed

to the present, Borcat has never stopped

He cites several advantages including the

to withstand the tough working conditions

searching for better ways to design and

‘plug-and-play’ configuration which, as the

that tipper trailers are exposed to on a daily

build its trailers, as well as seeking the best

term suggests, involves simply plugging the

basis,” Paul says. “We swear by Lucidity’s

possible ancillary equipment to fit to them.

lights directly into the wiring harness via

Integrated Distribution Module (IDM) for

And so it was that the company started its

Deutsch Connectors, providing a watertight

electrical connections because it eliminates

association with Lucidity in October 2019,

and reliable connection. This is in stark

from the trailer the old-fashioned junction

thus ensuring its products were from that

contrast to the earlier more time-consuming

box and all the wire splices that are prone

date forward equipped with the cutting-

method of soldering the wires together

to corrosion and failure. The IDM is a robust

edge excellence that Lucidity provides with

which, while generally providing a reliable

and reliable product, and as I mentioned

its lighting. All wiring and IDM materials

connection, also made the subsequent job

before, we have simply had no issues with

from Lucidity are also made in Australia.

of replacing the light due to damage or

them since we first installed them in October

“We are very pleased we made the decision

malfunction a lengthier exercise. Further to

2019.”

to partner with Lucidity and we now use

this, Paul says the fact that Lucidity supplies

Borcat uses the Glo Trac 26059 Series

their excellent products on all of our trailer

its products in kit form with everything

of rear combination lamps, which is said

and body builds,” Borcat Trailers owner,

necessary for each project is another boon

to be the first rear combination lamp to

Paul Gallagher says. “Our passion for local

for production efficiency.

introduce the latest Glo Trac lens design in

manufacturing with products designed fit for

He also vouches for the quality and longevity

the Australia market. According to Lucidity,

purpose here is something we are extremely

of the Lucidity products, remarking that

its 26059 lamp is an ideal product for the

proud of.”

since October 2019 when its partnership

tipper market due to its low profile and

According to Paul, the Lucidity products have

with Lucidity started, Borcat is yet to have a

lightweight design. The Glo Trac principle is

made the job of installing wiring and lighting

single warranty issue.

said to increase the illumination area which

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

S M M E b

Fast Fact Lucidity’s Glo Trac range of 26059 Series rear combination lamps and 26275 Series side marker lamps are ADR-approved, multi-volt (12/24V), IP67 rated and feature a tough, heavy-duty polycarbonate lens with the highest possible resistance to breakage. The products are covered by

Lucidity wiring and lighting is ideal for rugged tipper applications.

a five-year warranty.

significantly improves safety during night

work lamp which has a multi-volt operation

our trailer builds due to these advantages,”

driving as the light distribution is even and

of 12 to 36 Volts. All mounting hardware

Paul says.

has no glaring high intensity LEDs visible.

of this series is stainless steel and the lens

“Another great benefit is the staff at Lucidity

Lucidity’s Glo Trac 26275 Series side marker

material is polycarbonate.

– they are extremely professional and

lamps encompass the same features as the

According to Paul, the distinct advantages

proficient at what they do and are always

taillights in a smaller side marker design.

of investing in these products are their

keen to accommodate our needs.”

The products are ADR-approved, multi-volt

robust construction and light weight, the

(12/24V), IP67 rated and feature a heavy-

fact they are ADR-approved and come

duty polycarbonate lens with the highest

with a five-year warranty, and that they are

possible resistance to breakage. They are

supplied in kit form to suit Borcat-specific

covered by a five-year warranty.

trailer builds.

Also used by Borcat is the 22809 Series

“Lucidity products definitely add value to

Contact Lucidity Australia 37 Paraweena Drive Truganina VIC 3029 Ph: (03) 9219 4074 Web: www.lucidityaustralia.com.au

Strength Through Innovation

BRUCE ROCK ENGINEERING IS THE EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR OF TITAN TRAILERS IN AUSTRALIA Sales Contact East Coast Michael Booker M: 0438 101 673 Freecall: 1300 611 253 E: michael.b@brucerockengineering.com.au brucerockengineering.com.au

Sales Contact Southern W.A. & S.A. Lee Maddison M: 0488 083 228 Ph: 089 454 7177 E: lee.m@brucerockengineering.com.au brucerockeengineering.com.au

Sales Contact Northern W.A. & N.T. Peter Oliver M: 0429 201 983 Ph: 089 454 7177 E: peter.o@brucerockengineering.com.au brucerockengineering.com.au www.trailermag.com.au

TRAILER BUILDING MATERIALS/COMPONENTS

Connecting industry with uncompromising performance GENERAL PNEUMATICS TRADING AS GP TRUCK PRODUCTS IS A SPECIALIST SUPPLIER OF AIR BRAKE FITTINGS AND TRUCK AND TRAILER PARTS. ENSURING TOTAL COMPLIANCE IS EASY WITH ACCESS TO A VAST PORTFOLIO OF PRODUCTS THAT MEET THE GUIDELINES FOR ADR AND VARIOUS INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED PERFORMANCE STANDARDS. GP Truck Products is a Melbourne-based

one of the largest range of Department of

supplier of road transport components

Transport (DOT) air brake fittings for the

including Air Brake fittings & Tubing,

Australian market.

Fast Fact

Suzi-coils, trailer couplings, air brake

The DOT air brake fittings also comply with

GP Truck Products, a division of

system filtration and associated products.

US transportation laws and are reported to

General Pneumatics, was formed in

The business has grown from strength to

form an integral part of any braking system

1994 to support the truck and trailer

strength to become a major supplier to

as they connect the air brake tubing in all

industry by sourcing the best quality

truck manufacturers, trailer builders, fleet

vehicle brake circuits and cabin air control

products available for Australian truck,

operators, maintenance workshops and

systems. They are also strong, lightweight,

trailer manufacturers and aftermarket

the Australian Defence Force. It also boasts

impact resistant and leakage-free. They are

distributors of truck and trailer parts.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

easy to fit and can reduce tube assembly

As a manufacturer and supplier, it is up to

Ultimately, for the most extensive range

times when compared to traditional

GP Truck Products to do its due diligence to

of air brake fittings for trucks and trailers,

compression or swaged brake fittings.

uphold user safety by ensuring these fittings

contact GP Truck Products today.

With more than 18 years of experience

conform to the appropriate performance

in the fittings niche, GP Truck Products

standards as well as provide full testing

Fast Fact

understand the importance of providing

documentation to the end user that

In addition to providing original

equipment that not only performs well

confirms certification. These are matters

equipment manufacturers, fleets and

but also adheres to strict Australian

that must be addressed, especially when

workshops with a variety of truck

guidelines for vehicle and operator safety.

fittings are imported. That is the difference

and trailer components, GP Truck

The requirement for air brake fittings is to

when dealing with GP Truck Products.

Products also supports the Australian

meet or exceed appropriate performance

Another observation, it pays to be aware

Defence Force. The Hawkei light

standards to minimise possible failures.

that fittings branded with DOT lettering

protected vehicle project, for

does not immediately guarantee the part is

instance, features fittings supplied by

Fast Fact

actually tested and certified for approved

GP Truck Products.

Australian made parts are

use.

manufactured by precision

Again, the team at GP Truck Products

components manufacturer Redline

reiterate that only documented testing

Engineering and are made to the

data stating each performance test of the

highest standards using only the

required criteria will certify the fittings for

best materials.

air brake applications.

Contact GP Truck Products 29 Hinkler Road Mordialloc VIC 3195 Ph: 03 9580 1811 Web: www.generalpneumatics.com.au

www.trailermag.com.au

WOMEN IN INDUSTRY

Women in Industry Awards ‘Excellence in Transport’ Finalists 2022 THE FINALISTS FOR THE ‘EXCELLENCE IN TRANSPORT’ CATEGORY OF THE WOMEN IN INDUSTRY AWARDS HAVE BEEN NAMED. The Women in Industry Awards showcases a

Jones has over 30 years’ experience in the

first female elected to the Board of the

range of successful women in the industrials

transport Industry having driven end and

Queensland Transport Association, whilst

sector. This year it is being held at Q Events

side tippers, oversized loads on 50 and 100

also holding the role of Treasurer there for

by Metropolis, Melbourne, on 7 April 2022.

tonne floats, flat top general freight and

a while.

“The Women in Industry Awards give you

tankers. She is a pilot escort driver, a tow

Finalist Penny Ford has over 20 years’

an opportunity to highlight key aspects

truck and tilt tray recovery driver, and has

experience in the Transport Industry,

and career defining moments of your many

spent 10 years using higher-productivity

working in the Department of Transport

years of success and dedication,” said

vehicles.

and Main Roads (TMR). Ford has spent this

Women in Industry ambassador, Rachael

Jones is a professional speaker with multiple

time leading and creating Transport Plans

Ashfield.

media appearances and has dedicated a

that cover the entire state of Queensland.

Five women have been announced as

generous amount of time to sharing her

Everyone is encouraged to attend the

‘Excellence in Transport’ finalists.

knowledge with others.

Women in Industry Awards where winners

Catherine Baxter, Chief Operating Officer of

Other nominee and finalist Kirstyn Glass has

will be announced in all categories.

Metro Trains Melbourne has been chosen

worked with Trapeze Group since 2019.

for her outstanding leadership skills through

Glass’ role has included providing subject

having a senior role in the cooperation.

matter advice on rail technology to both

Baxter’s countless achievements within

transport authorities and operators within

Fast Fact

Metro, dedication to maintaining strong

Australia and overseas.

The Women in Industry Awards

academic links, and her presentations at

Having been in the transport industry for

recognise outstanding women from

multiple transport events are just some of

approximately forty years, Merry Manton

the industrials sector – those who

the many accomplishments that have led to

is a finalist respected throughout both the

work in mining, road transport,

her nomination.

transport and insurance industries.

manufacturing, engineering, logistics,

Finalist Heather Jones is the CEO of Pilbara

Throughout her career, Manton has been

bulk handling, waste management,

Heavy Haulage Girls and Director/Owner of

a Board Director and Chair of Transport

rail and infrastructure.

Success Transport.

Women Australia Limited and was the

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN SPONSORS

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

AUSTRALIA’S LEADING MANUFACTURING AWARDS

endeavourawards.com.au www.trailermag.com.au

WORLD MAP

solvent. The heat recovered is partly reused to power the plant and partly to generate hot water for heating. Brianza Plastica recently inaugurated a new laboratory for research and development and production control activities. The new laboratory is three times bigger than the previous one and also benefits from a significant increase in technical staff. It has also been expanded by additional equipment to carry out most of the chemical-physical tests on the raw materials used and on the finished products. The new facility is equipped with the most advanced instruments to support the production processes and composite laminates. A wide and complete range allows customers to choose between Elycold fibreglass laminates, high quality products that stand out for the near invisibility of the

High quality GRP for tanks

fibreglass - thanks to the cold polymerisation of the material - and for the production flexibility that allows producing customised products even in small quantities, and Elyplan fibreglass laminates, which are characterised by an excellent quality/price ratio, the possibility to produce rolls in lengths as requested.

HIGHLY RESISTANT TO CORROSION AND VERY EASY TO CLEAN, EASY TO REPAIR AND REFURBISH, BRIANZA PLASTICA GRP LAMINATES GIVE A HIGHER VALUE FOR LEASING CONTAINERS.

Elycold is a combination of polyester

Brianza Plastica, the Italian company with

high levels of quality, while ensuring high

perfect flatness, which is an indispensable

60 years of history in the production of

degree of safety and low environmental

feature for the production of very high

fibreglass laminates, counts today four

impact: in fact, all Brianza Plastica’s fibreglass

quality panels with very good aesthetics.

production sites, with both continuous

laminates production sites are equipped

The excellent dimensional stability of Elycold

hot-laminating and discontinuous cold-

with powerful suction systems that purify

laminates is guaranteed by the use of

laminating procedure to meet the different

the internal production areas by carrying the

fibreglass chopped strand mat, which can be

needs of customers in a fast growing and

solvents to modern abatement plants that

combined with woven roving reinforcement

increasingly demanding market. Brianza

automatically powers itself by recovering

to further improve the mechanical features

Plastica production focuses on achieving

the heat generated by the combustion of

of the laminate.

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

resin (orthophthalic and isophthalic) and glass fibre; over the years this composite material has replaced aluminium providing manufacturers with excellent long-term properties and UV protection. Elycold laminates have the polymerisation process at room temperature. The result is

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FLEET OF THE MONTH

Practical Magic

Hino 700 8x4.

VAC TRUCK INDUSTRIES IS A LEADING AUSTRALIAN MANUFACTURER OF VERSATILE HYDRO-VACUUM EXCAVATION AND HIGH PRESSURE JETTER TRUCKS. Specifically designed and engineered for

“Australia has a complex network of

Since its beginning, VTI has expanded and

the collection and disposal of various liquids

underground assets such as gas, water,

diversified its offerings significantly, with

and debris, vac trucks as they are commonly

telecommunications, electrical and

various packages and specifications designed

known, have been instrumental in changing

stormwater systems just waiting to be struck

to meet the changing demands of their

the way many excavation projects such as

at any given moment when excavating

clients’ industries. The equipment covers a

trenching and under road boring are being

by traditional methods. Because of the

range of volume sizes and power capabilities

performed across Australia. The operations

significant liabilities companies can’t afford

as well as various sizes of tanks for fresh

involve high pressure water jets being used

to take out any services, or worse, risk

water and spoil.

to loosen the soil on the targeted surface,

worker injury or death.”

VTI was established four years ago with

while a powerful vacuum boom sucks up

Located at Arundel on the Queensland Gold

the intent to provide the local market with

all the mud, debris, liquids, slurry or sludge

Coast, Vac Truck Industries (VTI) is emerging

readily available, high-quality Australian-

back into a truck mounted ‘spoil’ tank which

as Australia’s leading OEM manufacturer

made and supported products and the

can have a capacity of up to 10,000 litres.

in its sector, providing complete vacuum

Directors Matt Clough, Ned Popovic and

The liquid is then transported to a suitable

truck solutions to a broad number of sectors

James Hennessy, can draw upon more than

location for disposal in an environmentally

including the construction, civil, electrical,

50 years of combined industry experience.

correct manner.

infrastructure, mining, drilling, and oil

“We based our manufacturing processes

There is an increasing demand for equipment

and gas industries in Australia. Over just

around Australian assets with a priority

with the capabilities to perform minimally

a few years VTI has grown to become a

of keeping jobs in Australia,” says Matt.

invasive hydro-excavation work and to

major national supplier across these various

“Our focus is to build trucks which suit the

remove the resultant spoil and sludge, while

sectors. Key to VTI’s success has been focus

challenges of Australian conditions, and at

still remaining straightforward to operate

and investment in development of evolving

the same time make a conscious effort to

and maintain.

technology to produce Australian designed,

keep their operation simple.

“These days for anyone who is doing

engineered and manufactured hydro-

“With no disrespect to vac truck operators,

hydro-excavation work, they essentially

excavation vacuum trucks, high pressure

can’t dig unless they have a vac truck,”

hydro drain cleaning systems and liquid

it’s vital to keep them user-friendly by being simple to use and simple to

says VTI Managing Director Matt Clough.

waste collection systems.

maintain.”

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

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PRIME MOVER and TRAILER are Australia’s most-read monthly news resources for the commercial road transport industry covering all facets of our industry from bitumen to boardroom. Subscribe today to get access to award winning reporting and thought-provoking insight – 22 times a year – from the most acclaimed journalists in the country.

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INDUSTRY ICON

www.smedleys.net.au

A whiz in the workshop ROAD TRANSPORT IS A GREAT INDUSTRY TO BE INVOLVED IN ACCORDING TO DENNIS ROOHAN. WITH SO MANY PASSIONATE AND PROFESSIONAL PEOPLE IN IT HE SAYS HE WOULDN’T WANT TO BE ANYWHERE ELSE. able to get the unit going as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. I like that not one day is ever the same.” Over the years, Dennis has witnessed significant changes to emissions, lubrication, Electronic Braking Systems (EBS) and trailer designs. “Emission changes have caused us some headaches along the way, however the end result has been great, longer service intervals and some outstanding durability in our current Euro 5 / 6 engines.” Dennis says – adding it was a fantastic result to be one of the pioneers of Performance-Based Standards (PBS). “We put into service a 30m B-double up to the East Coast of Australia from Melbourne to Brisbane. The unit had 23 per cent more capacity than other combinations, was safer and outperformed the rest; it was a great project to be involved in although the roadblocks and red tape from councils added significant costs to the exercise as well as an additional six

Dennis Roohan.

months and a few grey hairs.” Dennis Roohan’s initial interest in trucks

to repair trucks so in late 1994 I was able

Throughout Dennis’ career Bob Woodward,

and trailers came from his father, Joe, who

to obtain an apprenticeship with the John

who currently serves as the Australian

was the Branch Manager of a local Recar

Farragher Transport Group. From that I was

Trucking Association’s (ATA) Chief Engineer,

Smash Repair Centre and then years later

able to get an early release and was promoted

has been a constant help and sounding

an assessor at National Transport Insurance

to Workshop foreman, then several months

board as well as a great forward thinker and

(NTI).

later Fleet Maintenance manager, a position I

engineering genius in road transport.

“I spend many weekends crawling over

held for the next 10 years.”

“I was able to join the ATA’s Industry

smashed and repaired trucks learning how

Following that stint, Dennis would go on to

Technical Council at a relatively early time

they worked and later looking at the best way

work with a waste management fleet and

in my career and through that I have been

to repair heavy vehicles in the most efficient

then a civil construction fleet in the capacity

able to surround myself with some of the

way possible,” he says. “I was in Year 11,

as Maintenance Manager.

best minds in fleet maintenance in the

and had no desire to be at school, I wanted

“Both roles were challenging,” he says.

world,” Dennis says. “These guys were

“However, I missed the linehaul / express

and still are always happy to share their

overnight side of the transport industry, so I

knowledge and insights.

Fast Fact

joined AJM Transport as Fleet Maintenance

In 2020, Dennis Roohan was

Manager and now oversee the business as

awarded the Craig Roseneder Award

Group General Manager.”

Industry Icon

which recognises technical and

The express road transport side, according

Made possible by Smedley’s Engineers.

fleet maintenance excellence at the

to Dennis, has a unique set of challenges.

Industry Icon is a series dedicated to

Australian Trucking Association’s

“Whether it be fires, floods, accidents or

honouring the unsung heroes of the

Technical & Maintenance conference.

breakdowns the show must go on,” he

commercial road transport industry.

says. “You must solve the problem and be

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

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WHAT’S ON

Truck Shows & Field Days 2022 PENCIL IN SOME INFORMATION ON DATES AND VENUES OF VARIOUS TRUCK SHOWS, FIELD DAYS AND ROAD TRANSPORT INDUSTRY CONFERENCES BOTH LOCALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY. Got an upcoming event? Then let us know about it. E: editor@trailermag.com.au

APRIL

Queensland

New South Wales

Ag-Grow Emerald 23-25 June Emerald, QLD Visit: www.aggrow.com.au

Murrumbateman Field Days 15-16 October Murrumbateman, NSW Visit: www.mfdays.com

SEPTEMBER

Germany

Victoria

New South Wales

VTA Annual Women’s Lunch 27 April Melbourne, VIC Visit: https://vta.com.au/events/vta-womenslunch-2021/

Henty Machinery Field Days 20-22 September 2022 Henty, NSW Visit: www.hmfd.com.au

Bauma 2022 24-30 October Munich, Germany Visit: www.bauma.de/en

National Diesel Dirt and Turf Expo 8-11 April Sydney, NSW Visit: https://www.dieseldirtandturf.com.au/

NOVEMBER

Germany

Brazil

IAA Commercial Vehicles Show 20-25 September Hannover, Germany Visit: www.iaa.de

7-11 November Sao Paulo Expo Brazil Visit: www.fenatran.com.br

MAY Western Australia WA Mack Muster 22 May Whitby, WA Visit: www.mackmuster.com.au

OCTOBER Victoria

JUNE Victoria Alexandra Truck Ute and Rod Show 12 June Alexandra, Victoria Visit: www.alexandratruckshow.com.au

Trailer Magazine APRIL 22

Wandin Silvan Field Days 14-15 October Wandin, VIC Visit: www.wandinsilvanfielddays.com.au

PROMOTIONAL FEATURES JUNE

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN Position your brand among the best in the business in the industry’s most trusted reference for trailer and body technology. Showcase your products and services to decision makers Australia wide with an advertisement and editorial.

FEATURES INCLUDE Rigid Bodies Rentals/Leasing Axles & Suspensions Lifting Equipment Hydraulics Showcase Booking deadline: 29 April 2022

CON ZAROCOSTAS Business Development Manager M: 0422 222 822 E: conzarocostas@primecreative.com.au

trailermag.com.au

JOST TOWING EFFICIENCY • • • •

Coupling and jack knife sensor option Pneumatic or mechanical remote control option High Load rating. Includes vertical load capacity In-cab warning display

SAFETY SOLUTION WITH REMOTE DISPLAY

Trailer Mag Apr 2022

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