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From the Editor’s desk
Acknowledging excellence
The 2024 Australian Freight Industry Awards (AFIAs), held at the Palladium at Crown Melbourne last month, saw the freight industry gather together as a whole to acknowledge the tremendous work of the individuals that strive to keep it moving day in and day out.
by providing a resourceful tool with the latest news and information, by highlighting the work that businesses such as fleets and corporations do, or by simply producing a form of entertainment, I hope that I’m able to play a part one way or another.
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While the well-recognised phrase, ‘without trucks, Australia stops’ may be a cliché to some, it’s one that resonates well with many, including myself. And, addressing us all at the AFIAs in his opening speech, it’s one that Victorian Transport Association CEO, Peter Anderson, made very clear.
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O cially endorsed by the VTA
“What makes tonight particularly special is that it brings together the people behind the wheels, the loading docks, the warehouses, the IT systems and the logistics hubs,” he said. “It’s the people – you – who are the heart of the freight and logistics industry, and without your timeless efforts, Australia’s national and international supply chains would simply not function.”
It’s these people, Anderson reiterated, that are “essential to the fabric of our economy” and which make sure that our goods move efficiently, safely and on time while contributing to communities and ensuring businesses can thrive.
It’s also these people that make our industry so great. And as the Editor of Trailer, I hope that I’m able to give back to our industry and its key contributors through each edition. Whether it’s
And despite constant challenges, regulations and growing demands, the Australian transport industry is as strong as ever. Changes in innovation, technology adoption, safety, sustainability and customer service (and the industry’s ability to rise to them as Anderson noted) have allowed the sector to flourish and remain dynamic, competitive and crucial to the nation’s success.
That being said, I congratulate all those who were recognised on the night of the 34th AFIAs with awards for their outstanding efforts and contributions to our industry.
Congratulations to those who made it as finalists, to those who were nominated, to the transport industry as a whole, and of course, to the Victorian Transport Association. For not just showing how vital our businesses, operations teams, executive leaders and truck drivers are, but for coming together collectively in such a way to acknowledge this.
Trailer Magazine Editor
Peter White
October 2024
Business
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24 Refrigerated transport equipment
See the latest cold chain technologies in road transport.
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36 Hydraulics
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38 Trailer building materials/components
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46 Special report
Secon Freight Logistics has completed a series of investments to bolster its national operations.
48 Special report
A trial by the Victorian Government will permit livestock trucks to travel through Melbourne’s CityLink tunnels.
50 Special report
The Australian and Queensland Governments have been making strides on Queensland’s second M1.
52 Infrastructure spotlight
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54 World map
Intermodal infrastructure projects at Europe’s largest port will be key to driving more e cient freight outcomes for the Netherlands.
56 Fleet of the month
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58 What’s on
Upcoming shows and field days.
VTA calls for immigration laws change to combat driver shortages
The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) is urging the Australian Government to “take decisive action” by revising Australia’s immigration laws to solve the chronic shortage of qualified heavy vehicle drivers.
According to the VTA, amending Australia’s immigration laws and Skilled Occupation List (SOL) to prioritise qualified and trained heavy vehicle drivers is one of the most effective ways to address the prevalent issue of driver shortages.
VTA CEO, Peter Anderson, said the shortage is so severe that it threatens to disrupt supply chains, increase costs and impact the broader economy.
“Australia’s transport industry is struggling to attract and retain qualified heavy vehicle drivers,” he said.
“As the backbone of our nation’s supply chain, these drivers are essential for the smooth operation of our economy, ensuring that goods reach businesses and consumers across the country.”
The VTA has long advocated for policies that support and sustain the transport industry, which Anderson reiterated is the lifeblood of the Australian economy.
While there may be many facets to addressing the driver shortage such as training, better working conditions and
industry support, Anderson believes these measures will take time to have a significant impact.
In the interim, he claims the most immediate and effective solution is to revise the SOL to include heavy vehicle drivers as a priority occupation.
“Immigration has historically been a cornerstone of Australia’s economic growth, providing a steady stream of skilled workers across various industries,” Anderson said.
“However, the current immigration system does not adequately reflect the urgent needs of the transport sector.
“Heavy vehicle drivers, despite their critical role, are not prioritised on the SOL. This omission ignores the reality that without a sufficient number of drivers, our economy cannot function efficiently.”
According to the VTA, while an ageing workforce, the physically demanding nature of the job and a perception that the industry does not offer long-term career prospects are contributing factors to the driver shortage, revising the SOL would be a strategic move to address the immediate shortfall in the industry.
The association believes it would enable the transport sector to tap into a global pool of qualified drivers, bringing in
experienced professionals who can “hit the ground running”.
“This is not just about filling vacancies, it’s about ensuring the continuity of Australia’s supply chains and supporting the broader economy,” Anderson said.
“According to industry estimates, Australia needs thousands of new drivers each year just to keep pace with demand.
“The current shortage is placing immense pressure on existing drivers, leading to burnout, higher turnover and ultimately a risk of reduced safety on our roads.”
Anderson explained that prioritising heavy vehicle drivers would provide several key benefits, including economic stability and the efficient movement of goods, supporting businesses and preventing supply chain disruptions, safety on the roads, a more stable workforce, long-term industry growth and regional development and supporting local economies to keep rural communities connected.
“The time for action is now,” he said.
“We must ensure that our immigration policies reflect the needs of our economy and our people.
“The VTA stands ready to work with the government and industry stakeholders to make this vision a reality.”
Heavy vehicle mass limits and HVNL amended
Regulations setting mass limits under the Heavy Vehicle National Law have now been amended to allow heavy vehicles to meet the latest international standards.
From 1 November 2024, a 500kg increase in general access mass limits will apply to trucks in Australia that comply with Euro VI or equivalent noxious emissions standards.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said this will improve safety and emissions reduction outcomes for Australia’s heavy vehicles.
“The mass limit amendments have been made under the Heavy Vehicle National Law, which is based in Queensland and
adopted by participating states and territories,” she said.
“The increase in heavy vehicle mass limits is an important step towards improving productivity and safety in the heavy vehicle sector, while reducing emissions.
“I thank state and territory colleagues, the National Transport Commission and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator for working together to achieve this important change.”
The amendment follows the Australian Government’s recent announcement of tighter noxious emissions standards for new trucks and buses, which must be met from 1 November 2024 onwards.
2024 Australian Freight Industry Awards winners revealed
The nation’s biggest names in the freight and logistics industry gathered once again at the 34th Australian Freight Industry Awards (AFIAs) on Saturday 7 September, drawing in a record crowd at the Palladium at Crown Melbourne.
The prestigious black-tie event honoured numerous achievements and key players across the industry, selected from a record-breaking number of applications across a range of categories.
The event was supported by regular major sponsors, with awards given by Victorian Transport Association (VTA) CEO, Peter Anderson.
“It was an honour to present the
awards in front of so many transport industry operators and distinguished guests,” he said.
“After what has been another challenging year, it was fantastic to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate our industry and those that keep pushing for greatness and embracing innovation to keep our country moving.”
The winners announced were:
• Lindsay Fox of Linfox Australia, Personality of the Year Award
• Namrita Anchan of Linfox Australia, Women’s Leadership Award
• Sean Draffin of Xtreme Freight, Emerging Leader Award
• Qube Bulk, Green Star Award
• Secon Freight Logistics, Application of Technology Award
• Freight Cyber, Best Practice Safety Award
• Alex Fraser Recycling, Investment in People Award
• Australian Paper Recovery, Waste & Recycling Business of the Year Award
“The AFIA Committee extends its sincere congratulations to every winner and finalist and thanks those who lodged an entry and shared their stories,”
Anderson said.
“We look forward to building on the success of this outstanding event for many years to come.”
The AFIAs will return in 2025.
Victorian Transport Association CEO, Peter Anderson, Linfox founder, Lindsay Fox, and Victorian Transport Association President, Mike Lean. Image: Victorian Transport Association.
JOST signs exclusivity agreement to acquire Hyva
JOST intends to significantly broaden its worldwide product portfolio through the acquisition of global hydraulics company, Hyva.
JOST World has entered into an exclusivity agreement with Unitas Capital and NWS Holdings Limited, with a view to finalising the terms of a transaction in relation to the purchase of all shares in Hyva III BV – including its direct and indirect subsidiaries worldwide.
The global company plans to add Hyva to its family of brands, with a definitive agreement expected to be signed in the fourth quarter of this year.
“We are very pleased to have entered into an exclusivity agreement for the future acquisition of Hyva,” said JOST CEO, Joachim Dürr.
“Hyva is a highly recognised brand with a strong market leading position.
“The experienced management team and highly motivated staff are respected industry experts who understand applications, markets and customers’ needs very well.”
According to Dürr, these capabilities strongly support JOST’s strategy to become the number one supplier
for on- and off-highway commercial vehicles worldwide.
The intended addition of Hyva will expand JOST’s product portfolio and offerings for customers in the transport, agriculture and infrastructure industries.
In addition, Hyva’s significant knowledge with hydraulics will support the technological development of JOST’s existing products in markets like Australia’s.
“Together, both companies will benefit from a wider regional sales and production network, transforming into an even stronger industry champion and becoming a more attractive business partner for all our customers worldwide,” Dürr said.
Founded in 1979 and headquartered in the Netherlands, Hyva is a leading supplier of hydraulic solutions for the commercial vehicle industries.
With a global market share of more than 40 per cent, its worldwide manufacturing footprint encompasses 14 production facilities across Australia, China, India, Brazil and Europe.
Thus, JOST is convinced that the acquisition of Hyva will also unlock further potential for profitable growth.
JOST said that Hyva’s strong brand and
wide customer network will effectively enable it to replicate its successful pushand-pull sales strategy.
Hyva CEO, Alex Tan, said the company recognises the intended acquisition by JOST as a significant step for Hyva.
“JOST is a respected partner in the commercial vehicle industry, and we share a commitment to developing innovative and efficient transportation, environmental, and agricultural solutions,” he said.
“This partnership provides us with the opportunity to enhance our global market position, expand our product offerings, and reach a wider range of OEMs, body builders, dealers, and customers.
“Joining forces will enable quicker and more effective adoption of new digital technologies supported by enhanced joint R&D efforts for smart transportation solutions.
“My team and I are prepared to navigate this transition and look forward to growing our business and serving our customers better together.”
According to JOST, the transaction will be financed through a combination of cash, drawdowns from currently undrawn credit facilities as well as via debt acquisition financing.
JOST World CEO, Joachim Dürr. Image: Prime Creative Media.
Qube acquires Coleman’s Transport
Qube has acquired Western Australian integrated transport, logistics and storage business, Coleman’s Transport.
The announcement was made in Qube’s 2024 financial report, where it was revealed that the acquisition was finalised on 21 August.
According to Qube, the business incorporates a portfolio of specialised licensed infrastructure supporting the Security Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate (SSAN) supply chain in WA.
Total consideration for the acquisition was approximately $119 million (exclusive of stamp duty and transaction costs) and
has been funded from Qube’s available, undrawn debt facilities.
“The acquisition of Coleman’s includes over $90 million of assets, including high security storage sheds in key WA mining centres,” said Qube Managing Director, Paul Digney.
“These facilities are close to transport infrastructure, SSAN manufacturing and processing facilities and meet all regulatory and compliance requirements.
“This acquisition provides Qube with a platform to enter the Western Australia SSAN supply market and to use its
financial and operational capabilities to invest to support further growth and deliver operational improvements for this business.”
The acquisition is expected to be modestly earnings per share preamortisation (EPSA) accretive and exceed Qube’s minimum return on average capital employed (ROACE) target on a pro forma basis, inclusive of synergies.
These synergies are expected to be partly realised in the first year of ownership and fully realised within 24 months post-acquisition.
Centurion expands into Melbourne
Centurion Transport has announced its expansion into Melbourne, in what it says is a pivotal step in connecting Victoria’s industry to regional networks in Northern Territory, South Australia and Queensland.
As a leading integrated logistics partner, Centurion ensures safe and reliable storage and movement of goods for clients in the mining, oil and gas and retail sectors.
It primarily services general freight and transport, project logistics, integrated
solutions and Dangerous Goods (DG) transport.
Centurion’s new depot, located at 7-11 Somerton Park Drive, Campbellfield, boasts a strategic position with access to major arterial roads.
Centurion claims this prime location is set to serve as a pivotal hub for general freight and long-haul logistics, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency across the region.
Centurion Branch Operations Manager, Aaron Lake, said the Melbourne-based
Border Express launches new Perth facility
Border Express has opened its brandnew facility at Perth Airport in Western Australia.
The significant expansion is a testament to Border Express’ commitment to enhancing efficiency and supporting its continued growth in the Perth and greater WA region.
The new Border Express facility, stretching four hectares of land which includes 13,000 square metres under its roof and an additional 1,500 square metres of awning, is better equipped to handle the company’s growing business needs.
Additionally, it is well-connected to major road networks in Perth, including
the Tonkin, Leach and Roe Highways, making distribution much more direct.
The facility includes an enhanced loading capacity as it is equipped with parcel loading docks for 33 vehicles, allowing for smoother and more efficient loading and unloading operations.
It will also house the ability to stage and handle six to eight B-doubles simultaneously.
Compared to just three at the current site, Border Express said it can now manage a higher volume of goods with greater efficiency.
Another key benefit of the site includes ample parking for up to 30 B-double trailers.
team holds a wealth of warehousing and transport experience specialised in tailoring the best local service offerings.
“Our in depth understanding of the local industry allows the team to implement the most cost-efficient and effective transport solutions for our customers,” he said.
The Melbourne depot offers regional, interstate transport and overflow storage, and according to Centurion, is a reputable and reliable one-stop shop solution for all transport, storage and distribution requirements in Melbourne.
It will also significantly improve logistics management and Border Express’ capacity for growth and expansion in Perth.
“The new site at 17 Tarlton Crescent is a crucial step forward in our mission to provide unparalleled logistics and transportation services,” Border Express said.
“With cutting-edge facilities and a focus on growth, this investment positions Border Express for a bright future in the Perth region and beyond.”
The facility’s construction was made possible through Border Express’ partnership with Perth Airport and construction partner, Capstone.
DHL relocates Boehringer Ingelheim facility
DHL Supply Chain has relocated Boehringer Ingelheim’s Sydney end-toend services to a larger site with improved sustainability.
By moving the leading biopharmaceutical company’s warehouse as well as taking on its New Zealand warehousing, DHL Supply Chain has helped boost the sustainability, capacity and efficiency of Boehringer Ingelheim’s supply chain operations.
Boehringer Ingelheim has worked with DHL for warehousing and transport in the region for over 26 years, and it now stores and distributes its products from DHL’s Horsley Park Campus in Sydney and the DHL Airpark II site in Auckland.
The relocation of the Sydney site increases Boehringer Ingelheim’s sustainability, with measures incorporated into the site build including rooftop solar, the use of 100 per cent renewable electricity, LED lighting with an efficient lighting control system, smart energy metering, cool roofing, rainwater reuse and
energy-efficient HVAC systems.
In addition, the move brings the warehouse closer to DHL’s Transport Hub – reducing fuel usage and wait times while also increasing opportunities to accommodate for growth.
DHL Supply Chain Australia and New Zealand CEO, Steve Thompsett, said the company strives for strong, longterm partnerships like the one it has with Boehringer Ingelheim.
“Continuous improvements, such as managing businesses’ strategic locations and their capacity to meet sustainability requirements, while providing specialised capabilities such as cold chain management, play an important role in maintaining such relationships,” he said.
Boehringer Ingelheim’s move in New Zealand to DHL’s Airpark II site delivers the sustainability measures of the Sydney site while adding electric vehicle (EV) chargers to accommodate a modernising vehicle fleet.
It also places Boehringer Ingelheim’s pharmaceutical and animal health product lines operations under one roof.
Along with DHL’s transport offerings, Boehringer Ingelheim is also using DHL’s reusable cold chain packaging solution which is built for the compliant transportation of pharmaceutical items that must be kept between two to eight degrees Celsius.
Boehringer Ingelheim Australia and New Zealand Head of Commercial Supply Chain, Jo McDonald, said that ensuring life-saving medications are delivered with minimal environmental impact is a priority for Boehringer Ingelheim.
“For us, sustainability is not just a buzzword, it’s a commitment to future generations,” she said.
“Our partnership with DHL has enabled us to work towards our goal of becoming carbon-neutral in our company operations by 2030, while also reducing our resource footprint across the value chain.”
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Lindsay Australia reports solid FY24 results
Lindsay Australia has reported a strong performance in the financial year ending ending 30 June 2024 despite a challenging second half.
In FY24, Lindsay Australia achieved record underlying earnings before tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $92.1 million amid significant disruptions in H2 due to adverse weather, multiple rail outages and challenging macro conditions.
Like-for-like operating revenue grew by six per cent to $717 million, supported by positive performance in the Transport division’s metro operations, offsetting softer regional volumes and sales in the Rural division particularly in North Queensland as weather impacted horticultural yields.
The company announced a final fully franked dividend of 2.8 cents per share, bringing the full year dividend for FY24 to 4.9 cents per share fully franked – in like with FY23 and an increase in payout ratio to 50 per cent.
Lindsay Australia’s acquisition of WB Hunter and its successful integration contributed $3.3 million in underlying EBITDA over 11 months of operations, though performance was impacted by trade, discretionary and weather-exposed categories.
The Transport business’ underlying EBITDA increased by 2.2 per cent to $103.3 million, reflecting robust growth in metro operations and the rail division despite considerable disruptions and challenged performance in horticulture sectors.
The division bolstered its earnings base with new and existing blue-chip customers who provide a steady supply of food staples.
Strategic investments continued to expand the division’s network and asset portfolio, enhancing Transport’s refrigerated capabilities and positioning the business for future growth with greater geographical and customer diversification continuing to reduce market cyclicality.
Meanwhile Lindsay Australia’s underlying Net Profit After Tax (NPAT) decreased by 17 per cent to $30.4 million, impacted by higher net finance and depreciation charges of $10 million, associated to the
$128 million in capital expenditure invested over the last two years.
Despite these headwinds, Lindsay Australia continued to invest in its people, network and assets with a capital spend of $52.1 million – building greater operating capacity while still delivering 20.2 per cent Return On Invested Capital (ROIC).
According to Lindsay Australia, its FY24 results highlight the resilience of its diversified operating model, particularly in navigating the challenges of the second half that included over 40 days of multiple rail disruptions on the East/West line and prolonged wet weather, which had the largest impact on Queensland growing regions.
“This is a solid result from Lindsay Australia’s core operations,” said Lindsay Australia CEO, Clay McDonald.
“The result reflects the benefits of operating in different geographies, modes (road and rail), customer segments and market sectors.
“Trading conditions have been challenging, however our exposure to the staple refrigerated food sector, the integration benefits of Rural and Transport and our renowned delivery performance have created value as suppliers focus on ensuring goods are on the shelf to retain customers and grow sales.”
In Q4 FY24, Lindsay Australia also launched an enterprise-wide transformation program to leverage the company’s size and scale to improve efficiency, increase utilisation and reduce costs.
A dedicated project team, led by a newly promoted General Manager, has been established to drive this initiative forward.
Lindsay Australia anticipates that the outcomes of this program will start contributing in late FY25, following resource investments and program development throughout the year.
“The recent wins with blue-chip customers are a direct result of the investments we’ve made in our business over the past several years,” McDonald said.
“Furthermore, we’ve built this platform with additional headroom and capacity, positioning us for continued growth, with operating leverage expected to come through in future years.
“Lindsay is larger, better resourced, more resilient and positioned strongly to continue capturing market opportunities as we move forward.”
Image: Lindsay Transport.
NHVR seeking feedback on Heavy Vehicle Productivity Plan
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has opened consultation for its latest Heavy Vehicle Productivity Plan (HVPP).
NHVR Chief Safety and Productivity Officer, David Hourigan, said the latest plan focused on challenges affecting the trucking landscape into the next five years.
“We are open to feedback on what we see as contemporary challenges for Australia’s heavy vehicle industry,” he said.
“This includes issues like growth in the freight task, ongoing road fatalities, environmental and health impacts, the shift from asset management to optimisation and finally, the increased frequency of unplanned supply chain disruptions.”
As the heavy vehicle sector evolves and the freight task changes, Hourigan said the NHVR, too, is evolving and changing by continually seeking new ways to refine its approach.
“Our goal is to be a modern regulator that has a deeper understanding of the issues, priorities and needs of our industry and government customers so we can create the most effective regulatory environment,” he said.
Since the release of the first HVPP in 2020, the NHVR – in partnership with industry and government stakeholders – has achieved many of its productivity targets, including:
• Easing the permit burden by delivering 49 national notices and 50 state and territory notices
• Launching the National Network Map, marking Australia’s first harmonised mapping system for heavy vehicles and improving route planning and operational efficiency for the industry
• Opening up network opportunities through assessment of more than 770 structures across 106 local councils through the Commonwealth-funded Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project
• Establishing permanent electric vehicle networks in New South Wales and Victoria, with trial networks in Queensland and South Australia Hourigan said the new HVPP represented a fundamental shift in how heavy vehicle productivity would be defined moving forward.
“Productivity is not a trade-off with safety, sustainability and infrastructure,” he said.
“From our perspective, productivity also has the potential to save lives, reduce carbon emissions and prolong the life of our roads and structures.”
The NHVR is consulting on this new plan so that all those who play a part in the heavy vehicle industry such as drivers, operators and road managers can help shape its direction and achieve meaningful and tangible outcomes.
“We want to know we are implementing the right initiatives to support industry and keep Australia moving,” Hourigan said.
Image: National Heavy Vehicle
Regulator.
Report paves way for NSW freight policy reform
New South Wales’ independent Freight Policy Reform Panel has delivered its Interim Directions report with key recommendations to support an efficient logistics supply chain in the state.
The release of the Interim Directions Paper marks some immediate actions for government and industry to undertake and the opening of the second round of consultation ahead of the policy’s finalisation by the end of the year.
It looks at the end-to-end freight logistics chain, focusing on both industry and network policy, and follows a broad analysis by the Freight Policy Reform Panel which found that freight volumes across NSW are estimated to increase by 26 per cent between 2021 and 2041 – with a 40 per cent increase in Greater Sydney alone.
Key industry issues considered by the paper include supporting decarbonisation, better planning and protection of industrial land, using data and information to inform decision making and addressing skills shortages.
The paper also makes recommendations on network issues such as pricing, infrastructure resilience and the future of ports, rail and road within the freight system.
Specific actions include:
• Addressing data gaps in freight movements to support future infrastructure investments.
• Better planning for freight corridors and industrial spaces, including prioritising the final business case and planning for the Western Sydney Freight Line.
• Enabling 600 metre rail shuttles between Port Botany and Sydney’s intermodals for more efficient freight movements.
• The finalisation and implementation of the NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy to optimise use of the road network for modern heavy vehicles.
• The improvement of access and coordination between rail networks, including an immediate review of the NSW Rail Access Undertaking.
“The panel’s recommendations will shape a reform agenda to address feedback from industry on skills shortages, rail access and integration across the freight system,” said NSW Transport Minister, Jo Haylen.
“What the panel has recognised is the continued need to look at end-to-end freight transport as a whole system and not as individual modes, including making sure that freight considerations are central to transport planning, prioritisation and investment decisions.
“Thanks to the excellent work of the Freight Policy Reform Advisory Panel, we’re taking another step forward to help direct and finalise our plan for supporting efficient freight transport into the future.”
The Interim Directions Paper also
includes the Freight Policy Reform Panel’s endorsement of a package of 20 of 21 recommendations in the Willett Review of the Port Botany Landside Improvement Strategy and Ports and Maritime Administration Act.
The recommendations are designed to improve turnaround times and congestion while processing container freight at Port Botany – to put a greater emphasis on incentives that reward port efficiency rather than focusing on poor performance.
According to the NSW Government, Port Botany is the second largest processor of container freight in Australia with around 2.8 million containers being processed per year and 90 per cent of imports travel within a 60-kilometre radius of the port.
The reforms therefore look to make this process smoother and easier for shipping lines, stevedores and landside road and rail operators.
The NSW Government is now considering the Port Botany recommendations ahead of the final Freight Reform Policy.
“The Panel recognises a new approach is needed to continue to deliver safer and more connected transport while lowering emissions towards zero for both road and rail,” the State Government said.
Consultation is continuing, with online submissions accepted until 23 October.
Silk Logistics targets $1B revenue following resilient FY24
Silk Logistics Holdings has announced its results for the financial year ending 30 June 2024 and an outlook for the years ahead.
Silk reported a revenue of $556.4 million in FY24, an increase of 13.9 per cent yearon-year (YOY) which was underpinned by $55.7 million in annualised new business wins and the acquisition of Secon Freight Logistics in September 2023 which expanded the company’s capabilities into bulk logistics.
According to Silk, it achieved this despite challenging external trading conditions.
Silk achieved underlying earnings before tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $95.4 million – a 11 per cent improvement over the year prior due to the ability to maintain margins through the expanded share of wallet across its diversified customer base.
Underlying EBIT was $34.8 million, a decrease of 1.4 per cent YOY.
Silk Logistics Holding Managing Director and CEO, John Sood, said the resilience
and agility of the business and its operating model was highlighted in these results.
“We managed an unexpected CEO succession, successfully integrated an important strategic acquisition and delivered on revenue, EBITDA and EBIT guidance provided in February 2024 despite ongoing external challenges,” he said.
“Our long-term customer relationships with average customer tenure of approximately 7.3 years is a testament to our strong customer service ethos.
“Strategically, we believe there is significant latent demand in the bulk containerised segment and as we further integrate Secon into the business it will facilitate driving future organic growth.”
Sood said that while the sector continues to experience headwinds, he is encouraged by the momentum observed in the initial months of FY25, including a number of new customer contracts.
“Organic growth is our core focus for the upcoming year and we will continue Silk’s
Fonterra shares future outlook
Dairy cooperative, Fonterra, is poised for a strong financial year ahead.
It reported a 50 per cent increase in the forecast of ‘Farmgate Milk Price midpoint’ for the 2024/25 season as well as an uplift in the FY25 ‘Advance Rate Schedule’.
These announcements, according
Fonterra CEO, Miles Hurrell, reflect the recent lift in global dairy trade prices and the strength of the company’s balance sheet.
“Since announcing our opening FY25 season forecast Farmgate Milk Price in May, GDT prices have improved,” said Hurrell.
disciplined approach to operations whilst enhancing value through investments in our technology and integrating our recent acquisitions,” he said.
Looking ahead, Silk is now targeting $1 billion in revenue in FY30.
Sood said the target is based off of Silk’s current run rate of organic growth, and assumes no further acquisitions at this stage.
Silk also intends to invest in further growth initiatives as they arise and meet the company’s capital return requirements.
“This includes capitalising on the attractive national growth platform afforded us by the recent Secon acquisition,” Sood said.
During FY25, Silk expects to continue its track record of delivering solid revenue and EBITDA growth, subject to no significant deterioration in economic conditions.
It will focus on further organic growth through the delivery of great service to drive greater share of customer wallet and new customer contracts.
“We’ve reflected this in our revised forecast range with our midpoint lifting 50 cents to $8.50 per kgMS.”
Hurrell added the adjustments will see farmers paid 10 per cent more of the FY25 forecast Farmgate Milk Price from December paid January compared to other seasons which should assist farmers with on-farm cashflow.
Fonterra has also advised its FY24 earnings from continuing operations are forecast to be at the top of the announced range of 60-70 cents per share.
“As we look to close out the books for the year, it’s become clear that we have maintained strong performance across FY24,” said Hurrell.
“We’re indicating we expect our earnings to be at the top end of our forecast range and this puts us on track for a strong full year dividend.”
Fonterra will release its final FY24 earnings and full year dividend when it releases its financial results in September.
Image: Michael/stock.adobe.com.
Mondiale VGL breaks ground on new WA facility
Leading freight and logistics provider, Mondiale VGL, has continued its expansion across Australia with the sod now turned on a new purpose-built distribution and container storage facility in Western Australia.
Located in the ASCEND Industrial Estate at Jandakot Airport, the 16,400-squaremetre facility will encompass warehousing and office space alongside a container-rated hardstand which boasts a storage capacity of more than 700 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU).
Mondiale VGL Group CEO, Ray Meade, said the facility will grow the company’s Australian footprint and service offering.
“Our goal is to build a significant global supply chain operation with its roots in the Asia-Pacific region and we are firmly on the path to achieving that, with a strong position across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe and America,” he said.
“The addition of purpose-built distribution and storage facilities in strategic, high-volume locations, like
Jandakot Airport, is an important part of our growth strategy and further enhances the connectivity, efficiency and capabilities we provide to our customers.”
The facility is designed to maximise sustainable production through a focus on initiatives that improve operational and energy efficiency.
It will contain sustainable features, including a 99kW solar array with a 100kwH battery energy storage system (BESS).
“Working with developer and estate manager, Dexus, and utilising their industry experience has allowed us to build a warehouse with superior logistic capabilities and increase sustainability measures to support Mondial VGL’s overarching ESG strategy and that of our customers,” Meade said.
The ASCEND industrial estate is wellconnected to different transport routes, which poses a competitive advantage for Mondiale VGL’s distribution access.
The site is one minute from the Roe Highway, 15 minutes from Perth CBD and 20 minutes from Perth Airport and the Fremantle Port.
Upon opening, Mondiale VGL will join current tenants at the ASCEND lot at Jandakot including Amazon, Kmart, Aldi and other large corporations.
Practical completion of the facility is expected in Q2 2025.
Image: Mondiale VGL.
Senate to review Tasmanian freight scheme
The Tasmanian Government has welcomed an inquiry into the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES).
The TFES, according to the Tasmanian Government, helps Tasmania’s businesses compete with businesses from other parts of Australia.
Yet, according to Tasmania Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, and Minister for Transport, Eric Abetz, successive amendments to the scheme overtime have created some “apparent inconsistencies” in its scope and operations.
With reliable, affordable transport across Bass Strait being critical to the Tasmanian economy and community, Abetz revealed the Select Senate Committee will consider the treatment of the Bass Strait Islands.
“As an island state, Tasmania relies heavily on sea freight and the TFES is vital to placing Tasmanian businesses on a level playing field with the rest of Australia,” he said.
Australian Road Transport Industrial Organisation (ARTIO) National Secretary, Peter Anderson, has been appointed as a part-time member for the Road Transport Advisory Group (RTAG).
The designation is pending approval of a three-year appointment in line with government processes.
According to Anderson, RTAG, which
“The Scheme has been in place for almost 40 years and has been the subject of a number of inquiries over that period.
“There is no doubt that Bass Strait shipping has undergone considerable change in that time, with significant increases in service frequency and capacity.”
Abetz said that the Government welcomed the inquiry as an opportunity for all Tasmanian stakeholders to provide input and to share perspectives on where improvements can be made to the benefit of all users.
An important part of the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, he said, is to back local communities so they can grow their economies, and create jobs for Tasmanians to work and raise their families.
“It will always be the Tasmanian Liberal Government’s position that Tasmanian businesses should be no worse off under any changes to the Scheme and we call
on the Federal Labor Government to commit to a no-worse off guarantee,” he said.
Tasmania Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, believes Tasmanian farmers and producers will welcome the inquiry as the scheme had “simply not kept up with rising costs”.
“Agribusinesses and producers and their representatives like TasFarmers have expressed their strong concerns to me that TFES assistance rates have not changed since 1998 and do not reflect increasing Bass Strait shipping costs,” she said.
“This has become increasingly clear during the current feed and fodder shortage due to the drought conditions.
“I have also been advised that accessing the scheme is complex, and some business owners must engage a consultant to help them understand their entitlements and submit claims for assistance.”
Peter Anderson appointed to new Road Transport Advisory Group
commenced on 26 August, will be instrumental in advising the Fair Work Commission on important matters in the road transport industry.
“The establishment of the Road Transport Advisory Group within the Fair Work Commission is a crucial step towards addressing longstanding issues of inequality, unfairness within the workplace and contractual chains of the transport industry,” he said.
“By providing a platform for stakeholders to raise specific concerns and collaborate on solutions, the RTAG promises to be a catalyst for positive change and improvement.”
The group’s responsibilities include providing expert advice on industry issues and prioritising the Commission’s work to ensure that the sector’s needs are effectively addressed in line with the recent road transport reforms.
The conferral of Anderson’s new position,
following ARTIO’s nomination, emphasises his ongoing commitment to and advocacy for the industrial interests of road transport businesses across Australia.
Anderson is also the CEO of the Victorian Transport Association.
“It is an honour to be appointed to RTAG,” he said.
“This role presents a unique opportunity to ensure that the voices of road transport businesses are heard.
“ARTIO has been at the forefront of advocating for reforms that create a safer work environment for transport workers without compromising productivity for freight operators.
“I look forward to contributing to this important work and ensuring that our industry continues to thrive under fair and balanced regulations.”
ARTIO celebrates Anderson’s new appointment and is eager to see his contributions to the role.
Peter Anderson. Image: Prime Creative Media.
NSW to trial speed cameras for heavy vehicles and motorists
New South Wales will begin trialling average speed cameras to access the road safety benefits of extending their use from heavy vehicles to all vehicles.
The State Government will explore their merits in protecting lives and addressing speeding as part of a multi-pronged approach to curb the rising road toll, which currently stands at 227 – two more than at the same date in 2023.
The two trials will be conducted on limited stretches of highway in regional NSW to determine whether these measures reduce speeding at these locations, improving safety and preventing injuries and fatalities.
The trial areas are Pacific Highway between Kew and Lake Innes (Port Macquarie) – 15 kilometres between cameras, and Hume Highway between Coolac and Gundagai – 16 kilometres between cameras.
Road signs will alert all drivers that their speed is being monitored by average speed cameras on the trial stretches,
giving them the opportunity to adjust their speed as needed.
According to the NSW Government, these two stretches have been chosen based on a number of factors, including known crash history.
There were a combined total of six fatalities and 33 serious injuries between 2018 and 2022 at these locations.
Trials are proposed to begin with a 60day period in which speeding drivers will receive a warning letter rather than a fine before normal enforcement, including fines and demerit points, begin.
Legislation is needed to facilitate a trial phase, or any future decision to use them permanently.
“NSW is the only jurisdiction in the world to use average speed cameras but restrict their use to heavy vehicles only,” said NSW Minister for Roads, John Graham.
“In the context of a rising road toll, now is the time to trial these cameras for light vehicles and understand if we can keep
Download the app to operate and monitor multiple Razor Systems at a glance.
more people safe on the road more of the time.”
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said the trial of the average speed cameras for light vehicles is about encouraging all drivers to rethink their attitudes to speeding on our roads and change their behaviour.
“In 2023, speeding contributed to 44 per cent of road deaths in NSW, three quarters of which were in regional NSW,” she said.
“What’s more upsetting is that this behaviour is within drivers’ control.
“Our goal is to assess how effective the cameras can be in changing speeding habits and potential trauma benefits.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility – let’s all help each other get to our destinations safely.”
Road safety experts called for the use of average speed cameras at the NSW Road Safety Forum held earlier this year and the Government undertook to investigate their use.
Port of Melbourne lands massive expansion deal
Port of Melbourne has secured a longterm lease with the Victorian Government to access additional land that will bolster Victoria’s supply chain efficiency and resilience.
The strategic transformation of the port precinct will play a critical role in preserving Port of Melbourne as a key trade gateway for southeastern Australia, while reducing congestion and minimising impact to surrounding communities.
Port of Melbourne will lease approximately 29 hectares of the former Melbourne Markets site to 2066 in line with its existing 50-year port privatisation lease.
This represents the port’s largest ever expansion since the long-term lease was granted in 2016.
Based on current planning, Port of Melbourne expects to invest more than $200 million into the development of the site.
Significantly, the future-focused
integration of the site into the port precinct supports a $36-billion freight sector that employs 260,000 Victorians.
“With container volumes at Port of Melbourne expected to double by 2050, access to additional land at the former Melbourne Markets site unlocks opportunities that are critical to the future needs of Victoria,” said Port of Melbourne CEO, Saul Cannon.
“Port of Melbourne is proud to invest in developing the site to support forecast growth and demands.”
Consistent with the Victorian Government’s 2018 Victorian Freight Plan, Port of Melbourne will invest in developing the site for a range of uses including truck parking facilities and container storage.
The establishment of port functions at this site will improve traffic movement in the area, complementing the West Gate Tunnel when it opens.
“This is a great deal for Victoria – we’re getting more trucks off local roads,
increasing the amount of freight the Port of Melbourne can handle, boosting trade and the economy, while strengthening Victoria’s supply chains,” said Victorian Minister for Ports and Freight, Melissa Horne.
Owned by VicTrack, the site is optimally positioned for port use.
By accommodating freight and logistics functions closer to the port, the efficient use of the former Melbourne Markets site will redefine the movement of freight, in turn, relieving pressure on the inner west.
“For a city port in Australia’s soon-to-be largest city, the site’s strategic location and proximity to existing port functions enables a visionary transformation of the Port precinct that will enhance supply chain efficiencies, reinforcing Victoria’s position as the freight and logistics capital of Australia,” Cannon said.
The transaction remains subject to satisfaction of certain conditions which are currently expected to be satisfied by the end of 2024.
Saul Cannon, Melissa Horne and Chris Olds. Image: Port of Melbourne.
Federal Government extends heavy vehicle Steering Committee
The work of the Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Rest Area (HVRA) Steering Committee has been extended to boost heavy vehicle safety.
As part of its $140 million initiative dedicated to heavy vehicle rest area funding, the Steering Committee’s terms of reference have been updated to lengthen its work through to 30 June 2025.
Led by Senator for Western Australia, Glenn Sterle, the Steering Committee was set up to use the expertise of heavy vehicle industry members to ensure that rest areas delivered under the HVRA initiative achieve the best outcomes for truck drivers.
To fulfil this commitment, it’s been announced that the Federal Government will continue to work with truck drivers and the wider trucking industry.
“Continuing the work of the HVRA Steering Committee shows the Albanese Government values the input of truck drivers, and other members of the industry, to inform decisions that will increase access to new or improved heavy vehicle rest areas,” said Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm.
“Heavy vehicle drivers play a vital role in keeping our country running, so using their shared knowledge and experience as members of the Committee will continue
to deliver better rest areas in the best possible locations.
“I look forward to seeing what assessments the Committee puts forward to further improve the welfare of truck drivers so they can get home safe at the end of each trip.”
The Committee’s main role to date has been to assess the strategic need of applications for funding under the HVRA initiative.
It was first announced in December 2022 when the Federal Government revealed it would be establishing a steering committee which would give operators a voice in shaping projects funded through the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.
Sterle, having been a truck driver himself, welcomed the news that the work would continue.
“This group was established to ensure that those who have the steering wheel in their hands or who know the challenges drivers face have a seat at the table when making important decisions about where funding is directed to support vital rest area projects,” he said.
“I am extremely proud of the current committee and look forward to continuing to work with them as we work to deliver more rest areas for our essential truckies
to help with them manage their fatigue.
“I encourage truck drivers to engage with the committee as well as local and state governments so we can continue to identify priority locations for rest area projects which could be funded through this program.”
Centurion makes new appointment
Centurion has announced the appointment of Giles Lenz to the role of Executive General Manager, People and Capability.
With over 30 years’ experience in human resources and employee relations, Centurion said Lenz has a proven track record of leading HR initiatives and driving organisational success.
“In this role, Giles is committed to developing internal talent and will be instrumental in driving forward and delivering on the People and Capability strategy,” Centurion said.
The appointment follows the news of Centurion’s expansion into Melbourne, in what the company claims is a pivotal step in connecting Victoria’s industry to regional networks in Northern Territory, South Australia and Queensland.
Qube enters new market
Qube is flexing a positive performance output on the back of its financial year 2024 results and recent acquisition of Western Australian integrated transport, logistics and storage business, Colemans.
The resilience of Qube’s business and growth prospects have contributed to its strong financial performance. The latest results – for the 12 months ended 30 June 2024 – show how Qube has mitigated cost inflation and continued with its acquisition strategy to diversify earnings.
Statutory revenue was $3,357.2 million (+16.6 per cent) and underlying revenue was $3,503.6 million (+17.2 per cent).
Statutory net profit after tax was $221.9 million (+32.2 per cent), while underlying net profit after tax was $258 million (+14.8 per cent).
The key markets that Qube engages in includes containers, agriculture, automotive, forestry, resources, energy as well as other commodities, services and products.
In addition to being well diversified across Australia’s states and territories and abroad, it delivered growth in every region. Acquisitions added revenue to Queensland and South Australia (Kalari), Western Australia (Stevenson Logistics) and New Zealand (Pinnacle). Weaker agriculture volumes in New South Wales and Queensland were largely offset by increased grain trading revenue in New South Wales.
The Logistics and Infrastructure business unit reported high volumes across most containerised activities including transport, empty container parks and warehouses.
The MLP IMEX Terminal commenced normal automated operations in late FY24. Qube handled around 24,000 TEU through
this terminal July last year which was under the annualised target of 300,000350,000. However, monthly volumes are expected to build during FY25. An empty container park adjacent to MLP IMEX has also commenced operations.
Ports and Bulk saw strong growth particularly with higher volumes of motor vehicles, fertiliser and bulk commodities.
As for Qube’s associates, Patrick’s market share reportedly increased from 42 per cent to 47 per cent (reaching 50 per cent at one stage) mainly due to industrial action at DP World.
“Patrick’s ability to efficiently handle these higher volumes reflects the benefits
from the substantial investment in landside infrastructure and equipment that Patrick has and continues to undertake,” said Qube.
In FY24 Qube acquired the remaining 50 per cent stake in Pinnacle, completed its integration of Narrabri Property and Infrastructure and is still in the process of integrating Stevenson Logistics.
For FY25, Qube will continue to undertake value accretive bolt-on acquisitions. The acquisition of Melbourne International RoRo & Automotive Terminal (MIRRAT) is expected to complete by H1 FY25, subject to ACCC and Port of Melbourne approval.
A tale of tenacity
As Iceman Group surpasses 40 years in repairing, servicing and building custom refrigerated rigid bodies, the business looks to the horizon of a new era of manufacturing on a much larger scale in WA.
For Iceman Group, it all began when founder, Cindy Marshall, and her partner, Ron Inman, embarked from the United States en route to Australia in the 1980s. Prior to their arrival in Queensland, Cindy and Ron were working at Thermo King in the US – Cindy was running the parts division of the business while Ron was a service technician, until they decided to have a crack at the game themselves. For Iceman, that date in the history books is 24 March 1984.
Cindy, according to the management team at Iceman, had a great reputation for being an innovator within the refrigerated road transport industry. Her love and passion for the industry is ultimately what gave Iceman its well-known motto of Australia’s ‘transport refrigeration experts’. Although Cindy unfortunately passed in August 2017, her legacy lives on through Iceman’s committed management team who live and breathe the values she brought to Australia all those years ago.
“We’re still around, and that’s one of Iceman’s biggest highlights as we celebrate the milestone of four decades,” says Iceman Group National Workshop
Supervisor/Technical Support, Billy Harkness. “Back in the day, we were up against the dealerships. We didn’t really have the advantage of selling brand-new refrigeration units so we used to mainly do maintenance and repairs. Towards the middle part of the 40 years, we started to refurbish our own units and then sell them out to the marketplace.”
Today, Iceman is based in every capital city with a major repair centre in Perth and four workshops in Brisbane, one in Cairns and three in Melbourne, along with a mobile trailer mechanical and refrigeration repair network throughout Sydney, Queensland, Perth, Darwin and Adelaide and subcontractor repairers in the wider outer country regions as well.
Iceman Group Director, Robert Maguire, has been instrumental in this growth. He initially came across the company as a customer looking for a solution in the middle of the ‘90s, and since purchasing Iceman in 2017 with his business partner, Jason Murray, he led it through its national expansion from end to end and saw it shift from having a local subcontractor model to being a national company-owned business
with various workshops.
“I had my own transport business at the time, and Iceman provided a solution that could service all brands,” he says. “It didn’t matter what make my fridge was, I could simply take it to them and they’d handle everything I needed.
“When we acquired Iceman, it had one facility in Brisbane and a mobile service truck in Townsville. Since then we’ve expanded significantly, establishing our own network in every capital city. My experience in the industry indicated that there was a strong need for a comprehensive, one-stop shop for all trailer repairs.”
In 2018, Iceman acquired Transport Innovators to complement its transport refrigeration network. This marked the beginning of a strategic shift and the launch of Iceman’s national expansion plan – a development that the management team believes Cindy would be immensely proud of today.
Iceman, through its branches in major capital cities, offers a comprehensive range of services including mechanical, body, smash and refrigeration repairs. As
a one-stop shop, customers can drop off their vehicles at any of Iceman’s facilities where its technicians can access and review their entire vehicle service history from any location.
“We can access our management system to understand what was completed on a unit during its last service,” Robert says. “We can review detailed history reports and provide superior service, including warranty management, because we know specifics such as when the starter motor was fitted.”
Additionally, Iceman has started to manufacture refrigerated rigid bodies to meet its customers’ specifications.
As Robert notes, this capability allows it to build custom units from the ground up, offering another advantage to those
choosing Iceman for their needs.
Since Robert joined the business, he carefully selected his management team and workshop managers based on their extensive industry knowledge. Collectively, this group contains over 400 years of experience in transport and repairs.
Robert believes this wealth of experience has positioned Iceman strongly for the future, as the team has a deep understanding of both customer needs and the nuances of transport repair.
Looking ahead, he emphasises that Iceman’s primary focus will be on continuing to expand its network to support both new and existing customers.
“We also aim to improve turnaround times for equipment repairs,” Robert says.
“By offering a one-stop shop approach, customers won’t have to rely on multiple repairers to get their vehicles back in service.”
As Iceman celebrates its achievements and adaptability, the management team credits much of its success to the loyal customers who have supported them over the years.
“The strength of our customers has enabled our growth,” Robert says. “But, without the skill and loyalty of our entire workforce around Australia, our progress would be greatly limited.”
Contact
Iceman Group
Ph: 1300 666 800
Web: www.icemangroup.com.au
Iceman Group has the ability to build custom refrigerated trailers to customer request.
Iceman Group’s Murarrie, Queensland, facility.
A world-class solution for Australia
Krueger will now offer Schmitz Cargobull’s renowned FERROPLAST refrigerated bodies on its trailers as part of an extended partnership between both OEMs.
Schmitz Cargobull and Krueger have been collaborating within the national transport industry for over 10 years, and over that time have developed quite the rapport through their close alliance. And while both are already heralded as champions within Australian transport, a new venture between them is expected to take things to the next level.
When Schmitz Cargobull first entered the Australian market, as Krueger National Sales Director, Grant Krueger, recalls, it was in search of a supplier. Schmitz Cargobull, he explains, was looking for a trailer builder that would tick all of the boxes – one with history and a strong reputation within the industry, one with structural integrity and one that possessed expansive engineering knowledge.
But ultimately, according to Grant, Schmitz Cargobull was after someone with a product that had the reliability and performance to match its FERROPLAST freezer box to in order to bolster its operations down under. Krueger, he says, met the criteria with its locally manufactured trailer chassis.
“They went through a process and selected us to work with them based on all of that,” he says. “We’ve been working closely with Schmitz Cargobull ever since then, and we’re looking at a continued arrangement to keep selling our Krueger chassis combined with their freezer box to our network of clients nationally.”
In 2018, Schmitz Cargobull even opened a new factory in Noble Park, Victoria, for this purpose specifically – carrying out the task at this location and demonstrating its
commitment to the operation even further.
“We’ve worked closely with Schmitz Cargobull over the years for continuous improvement on the combined products to ensure they are fit for purpose and good for Australian road conditions,” Grant says. “It’s something that we’ve always worked closely, hand-in-hand for, to better the product over the years.”
Now, Schmitz Cargobull is introducing a new business model in Australia which will see this arrangement in full effect. The OEM is essentially moving away from manufacturing complete trailers and towards supplying parts and components to trailer builders, like it has done for Krueger over the past 10 years. By investing more into this side of the business, Schmitz Cargobull will have its sights set on servicing end users with a complete solution through the fitment of its refrigerated bodies to a range of trailer chassis built by other manufacturers.
The arrangement will basically be similar to a major operation earlier this year
Schmitz Cargobull FERROPLAST body on a Krueger chassis, set up as a B-double.
where Krueger collaborated with Schmitz Cargobull Germany to deliver over 250 semi-trailers to Linfox in Melbourne (of which a large portion featured Krueger chassis with Schmitz Cargobull bodies). Only now, it will be on a much larger scale across Australia, with Brown and Hurley Group to play a part and distribute the completed trailers through its Queensland network as well.
Brown and Hurley Group has built a solid foundation through its client network and will provide continued support and success in this region.
“Krueger will manufacture the chassis, purchase a Schmitz Cargobull freezer box and then offer a complete product to the industry,” Grant says. “It will be supported by Krueger, Schmitz Cargobull and Brown and Hurley from a warranty and customer
service support point of view, and the support network will be there through all three suppliers.”
Grant explains that this will benefit Krueger’s offering by extending its product range of freezer vans, dry vans, curtainsiders and skels. Therefore, through Schmitz Cargobull, Krueger is unlocking the ability to offer a complete range to the marketplace.
“In working with a world-class manufacturer, there’s a lot of trust and history to get to this point,” he says. “We’re happy to be on this journey and to have the opportunity to develop and sell Schmitz Cargobull’s product into Australia.
“We’ve been selling these units for the last 10 years, but we will now be able to support our customer network even further. We’ll be able to offer the marketplace the best structural chassis combined with the best world-class thermal box.”
As part of this new business model, Schmitz Cargobull will also be introducing its fridges and TrailerConnect telematics services to the Australian market – a move Grant is excited to see based on the technologies’ success overseas.
“The FERROPLAST product is worldclass,” he says. “Schmitz Cargobull’s quality is second to none and the thermal efficiency is simply the best in the industry. At the end of the day, they’re providing a one-stop shop for clients with TrailerConnect and its ability to monitor trailers, temperatures, locations and all other important information.”
In terms of the collaboration and its
benefits for the end user, Grant says there are plenty.
“Customers will be able to get a product that is available in stock and ready to go with quick delivery,” he says. “Through us, they will also be able to get onboard with the smart technology and telematics to monitor and maintain their fleet more efficiently.
“Overall, I think the market will be positive that it’s a continued relationship and arrangement, and that the product will be available through a quality supplier that has a reputation, history and national support networks.”
Siding with Schmitz Cargobull and leading this new venture into the market, Grant says, is a privilege for Krueger – particularly because it’s one that he believes the industry will significantly benefit from.
“We will have a world-class product that will be available only in Australia, and one that will probably be leading the way in technology internationally,” he says.
“Through Schmitz Cargobull and their smart innovations, the technology is brought to our doorstep.”
Contact
Schmitz Cargobull Australia
Unit 2, 221 Browns Road
Noble Park North 3174 VIC
Ph: 03 8794 6600
Web: www.cargobull.com.au
Krueger Transport Equipment
Ph: 03 8331 6100
Web: www.krueger.com.au
L-R: Les Lange, Andreas Schmitz, Grant Krueger, John Krueger and Michael Temmingho .
Images: Krueger.
Hot growth for cold solutions
Over the last 30 years Scully RSV has grown to become a dominant provider of refrigerated rental trucks and trailers. Today, it is rolling out new expansion plans and aims to grow as a corporation while retaining a small-business feel.
Scully RSV emerged in 1993, a time where it claims Australia’s cold chain logistics industry was facing somewhat of a standstill – few breakthroughs in technologies and distribution efforts, according to the company, were being made while there was still a large market waiting to be tapped into and provided for.
With a high demand to store various products in temperature-controlled environments, Scully RSV saw this, acted, and the rest is history.
Back then, Scully RSV was a modest business which looked to service clients with a tight-knit community of staff members which it took exceptional pride in. Today, Scully RSV CEO, Andrew McKenzie, and the company think this has been the secret to its ongoing success.
“We’re not a large international corporate,” he says. “We’re a nimble, agile,
small Australian-run business that loves what we do.”
But the current numbers paint a different picture. While the company’s modesty may still be intact, Scully RSV has seen incredible success in the industry since its inception, quickly growing into one of Australia’s leading manufacturers and servicers for refrigerated transport.
This success has culminated this year in the major expansion of the company’s operations across the country. This widespread growth has been spearheaded by the goal of harmonising production across all of Scully RSV’s sites to better supply high demand by consumers for its services.
“We’ve taken the opportunity to consolidate our footprint,” Andrew says. “Demand for the product continues to be extraordinary. We’re continuing to grow
with significant double-digit percentages year after year. People are really embracing our products and the way we do business.”
In response to this major demand, Scully RSV’s extreme expansion has been rolled out in numerous states. The company’s rental, sales and repairs site in Archerfield, Queensland, is being consolidated with its head office and manufacturing site at Rocklea this month. This consolidation coincides with a 30 per cent expansion of the Rocklea footprint as part of the move.
The Rocklea site is a hive of activity, currently housing a plethora of contractors and technicians getting the expansion ready while the manufacturing team continue to do what they do best.
“We’ve got a great group of people here,” Andrew says. “With them, there’s no problem that’s insurmountable. We work
together, we just get on with it. In fact, one of our core values is about being easy to deal with, and as part of that, a can-do attitude is critical.”
Rocklea is not Scully RSV’s only hotspot in Queensland, as the company is looking to grow its influence over the length of the state. Scully RSV’s Townsville branch is also planning to undergo expansion, while the business is actively seeking opportunities to service demand in the state’s southeast and even crossing over into New South Wales where it already houses two sites.
South Australia and Western Australia have also been targets of rapid growth, with an additional trailer rental facility now operating at 14 Sudlow Road, Bibra Lake in Perth’s south. Another site is scheduled to begin operations in the Adelaide suburb of Wingfield.
“We just appointed a new branch manager in Adelaide, and we’ve already got a number of trucks and trailers operating there,” Andrew says. “We’re in the process of getting ready to push hard to service the demand in the SA market.”
Andrew credits Scully RSV’s extreme growth to its sense of community and value-driven ethos. The company’s unwavering commitment to individual consumers and their needs is essential to its brand and is reflected in its immense success.
“It’s just a matter of being close to your
customers and being able to provide them with a suitable solution,” he says. “Our underlying principles have always been the same – it is simply about bringing the ability to transport refrigerated products to people across Australia.
“We work with customers to provide appropriate solutions, allowing them to go back to their own customers and provide great benefits.”
and beyond for our customers.”
In addition to Scully RSV’s internal commitment to consumers, its communityoriented values manifest in a wide range of engagement efforts across the many areas that the company’s manufacturing and servicing sites operate in.
Every expansion opportunity that Scully RSV undertakes is approached on the condition that the company can maintain these core values across all of its sites. This has become an increasingly difficult task as Scully RSV’s scale of operations continues to increase, but as CEO, Andrew remains devoted to the promotion and preservation of this culture.
“The most important thing is that we foster a happy, cohesive, collectively engaged workforce across the board,” he says. “We always strive to capture the heart and minds of the people that have been with us for a while and the people that are joining us, especially now as a relatively sizeable and geographically dispersed organisation.
“We have a lot of people dispersed all over the country, so how we bring these people along with us is critical to the business. That is the key challenge, and it’s not something that we’ve always gotten right. But we know that if our people love what they do – another one of our core values – they will provide and go above
Scully RSV supports many grassroots organisations and social groups which bring locals together in positive ways, from local sporting clubs to schools. It even develops career pathway programs for children interested in the industry.
“When you can afford to give back, you do,” Andrew says. “We really are about entrenching ourselves into the areas and communities we operate in. We’re a proud Australian business, and we’d like to think we’re punching above our weight in a lot of respects. And we certainly do that by being user-friendly.”
The year of 2024 has been a victory lap for Scully RSV, and the company shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Customer needs are at the forefront of Scully RSV’s operations, and demand for its services is heating up across the country. But in the face of this, a situation that some could consider overwhelming, Andrew and the company are staying cool.
Scully RSV now looks to take over Adelaide.
Scully RSV has expanded to become a full rental and refrigerated service provider.
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Keep your cool with Carrier refrigerated technology
Carrier Transicold can now offer fleets refrigeration systems running entirely on hydro-electric power generated by a truck’s Euro VI engine – cutting emissions, maintenance costs and improving fuel efficiency.
Carrier Transicold is committed to providing refrigeration solutions which support a healthy, safe, sustainable and intelligent cold chain that delivers perishables with confidence. That being said, the OEM’s Eco-Drive range is a flexible option that can be fitted to many vehicle types, models or brands while improving overall sustainability for fleets.
Mounted to the prime mover, Eco-Drive can unlock additional emissions savings across a temperature-controlled trailer fleet. Incorporated within the tractor’s chassis, the innovative Eco-Drive power module uses a hydraulic pump connected to the tractor engine’s power take-off which drives a generator capable of delivering the electrical power required to run any Carrier Transicold all-electric unit. This power is delivered independent of the truck’s engine speed, ensuring 100 per cent refrigeration capacity even when the vehicle is idling.
“Carrier Transicold’s engineless refrigeration units offer strong cooling capacity, require minimal maintenance and have a low impact on the environment,” says Carrier Transicold Australia Director, Product and Aftermarket Solutions, Kelly Geddes. “These engineless units add a new dimension to our range of products and directly support our goal of helping fleet operators meet their efficiency and environmental goals to achieve a sustainable cold chain.”
In addition, the engineless solution is compatible with all Euro VI technology – diesel, CNG, LNG and ethanol. If a customer wishes to retain the diesel engine for complete independence, Carrier Transicold refrigeration units such as the
Vector HE 19 and Vector 1550 feature hermetically sealed and electrically driven scroll compressors, eliminating belts and shaft seals.
The Eco-Drive power modules deliver electrical power without the need for the refrigeration unit to use its own diesel engine, while the unit’s hermetic system allows for fewer leaks and requires little maintenance. Additionally, the system’s total fuel consumption, according to Kelly, is measurably lower than of those using just the refrigeration unit’s own engine.
“To help improve fleet sustainability and overall operational efficiency, Carrier Transicold released Eco-Drive T, the latest model in its range of hydro-electric power modules,” he says. “The Eco-Drive T is fitted behind the cabin of the prime mover, making it ideal for vehicles where there is no space underneath the chassis.
“Combined with Carrier Transicold Vector HE 19 E, Syberia or Iceland engineless refrigeration units, this solution can assist fleet operators in meeting their sustainability goals.”
Carrier Transicold units can also be optioned with the company’s digital telematics platform, Lynx Fleet, which earlier this year saw new capabilities introduced to bring more comprehensive monitoring capabilities to Australia’s refrigerated trucks and trailers.
Lynx Fleet for refrigerated trucks and trailers is part of Carrier Transicold’s awardwinning Lynx global ecosystem, which applies advanced Internet of Things (IoT) analytics, machine learning and various big data technologies to connect the cold chain in the cloud, automate key processes and deliver real-time visibility and insights
throughout the journey of cargo.
The new Lynx Fleet offering enhanced the company’s prior web-based application with an at-a-glance view of key refrigerated truck and trailer performance parameters – helping fleet managers easily monitor transport refrigeration equipment utilisation, improve operational efficiencies and maximise uptime by spotting and averting potential equipment issues.
Based on customer input, Lynx Fleet provides key insights for many parameters. It can help to identify refrigeration units that require fuel so as to avoid emergency call-outs for refuelling and engine priming; identify vehicles in service that may have battery issues which could result in an emergency call-out if not addressed in time; alert operators when critical alarm conditions occur, helping fleets to prevent unit shutdowns and load loss; and assist
Fast fact
Carrier Transicold engineless solutions are exceptionally quiet, operating below 60 decibels. This makes them ideal for night-time deliveries in urban areas.
fleets in understanding the number of times cargo doors are opened, helping to manage fuel costs and temperaturecontrol issues.
On top of this, Carrier Transicold units can also be bundled with a Carrier BluEdge Elite maintenance agreement to protect investments with comprehensive maintenance and repairs.
Through these advancements, Carrier Transicold is on top of the move towards intelligent climate and energy solutions that matter for people and the planet for generations to come.
Contact Carrier Transicold
Web: www.transicold.carrier.com.au
Eco-Drive can be mounted behind the cabin of the prime mover, making it ideal for vehicles where there is no space underneath the chassis.
AAA Trailers: more than just trailers
AAA Trailers looks to revolutionise fleet customisation with a range of branding and personalised options as part of its mission of providing customers with the best solutions while continuing to innovate.
In the highly competitive transport industry, the ability to stand out can make all the difference between gaining new customers and blending into the background. Branding plays a critical role in this, and a strong, recognisable brand can often be the key to turning every journey into a marketing opportunity.
AAA Trailers, a leader in the trailer manufacturing sector, understands this dynamic and has set out to provide businesses with the tools required to elevate their brand presence on the road. AAA Trailers Director, Daniel Bull, encapsulates the company’s approach perfectly.
“We recognised that many of our clients are looking for more than just a trailer –they’re looking for a way to differentiate themselves in a crowded market,” he says. “Every time one of our trailers hits the road, it’s a chance to make an impression. With our customisation options, businesses can ensure that the impression is a lasting one.”
AAA Trailers has built its reputation on a customer-centric philosophy, consistently listening to and addressing the evolving needs of its clients. This approach, as Daniel notes, has led to the development of services that not only meet expectations but exceed them.
“Our clients wanted more ways to make their trailers unique, and we have delivered,” he says.
One of the standout features of AAA Trailers’ service offerings is its ability to match trailer colours to prime movers through on-site custom colour mixing and matching. While Daniel says white has traditionally been a standard colour for trailers, AAA Trailers recognised the opportunity to help businesses make a stronger visual impact.
“Fleets all want uniform colours across the board,” he says. “A well-designed fleet is more than just a collection of vehicles. It’s a powerful extension of a company’s brand.”
This service not only enhances a company’s appearance on the road but also ensures brand uniformity across its entire fleet. The result is a cohesive, professional look that reinforces brand identity every time a trailer is seen.
Yet AAA Trailers doesn’t just stop at colour customisation. It offers a wide range of trailer options to cater to various business needs, ensuring that regardless of the type of trailer required, it can provide a solution that aligns with a company’s identity. The range includes drop decks, flat decks, quad-axle low loaders, side tippers, tag trailers and skels,
and each of these trailer types can be customised to reflect a company’s unique style and branding.
“Whether you are a small business seeking a trailer for a single prime mover or a large enterprise needing an entire fleet, AAA Trailers has the capability to ensure your vehicles reflect the professional image you want to project,” Daniel says.
Beyond colour customisation, Daniel explains AAA Trailers can offer businesses
the opportunity to turn their trailers into powerful marketing tools. This is especially true for trailers with large, visible surfaces such as curtainsiders, side tippers and tankers. “These trailers present a significant opportunity for branding with ample space for company logos, promotional messages, or creative designs that capture the essence of the brand,” he says. “AAA Trailers excels at bringing these designs to life. We work closely with our customers throughout
the development process to ensure that the final products look great and perform exceptionally well in real-world conditions as well.”
This collaboration ensures that every detail, from the design to the finish, meets client expectations and stands up to the rigours of daily use.
“By turning trailers into moving billboards, AAA Trailers helps businesses maximise their exposure and reinforce their brand identity with every kilometre travelled,” Daniel says.
For AAA Trailers, offering a way to elevate a brand one kilometre at a time is one of its core focuses. The company’s commitment to innovation (with ‘exciting’ developments on the horizon) therefore means it is always looking for new ways to help its clients succeed.
“We are always looking for new ways to innovate,” Daniel says. “Our goal is to continue providing our clients with the tools they need to succeed, whether that’s through further customisation options or new trailer features that enhance performance.”
This forward-thinking approach ensures that AAA Trailers is continually adapting to the changing needs of the market and its customers.
“As businesses seek to differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive landscape, AAA Trailers is there to provide the customised solutions they need,” Daniel says. “Whether you are looking to enhance the appearance of a single trailer or outfit an entire fleet with custom designs, AAA Trailers has the expertise and the vision to make it happen.”
Contact
AAA Trailers
Ph: 1300 333 888
Web: www.aaatrailers.com.au
Images:
Better together
Hydreco Hydraulics is a long-term supplier for all of Sloanebuilt’s hydraulics needs, and over the last three decades,
they’ve
navigated
the transport industry together to great success.
Hydreco Hydraulics and Sloanebuilt have enjoyed a secure partnership for 35 years, with Hydreco’s supply of hydraulics equipment enhancing the performance of Sloanebuilt’s trailers and aiding the trailer builder in its establishment as a leading manufacturer.
This continuing relationship is one rooted in mutual respect and a common desire for the best results possible, according to Sloanebuilt Managing Director, Fred Marano.
“We use Hydreco’s hydraulic components for our trucks and trailer equipment,” he says. “They’ve got a supply agreement with us to handle certain stock levels and be able to supply within a certain time frame, and we find that their management has successfully enabled great product availability.
“The proof is always results-driven. Everything is about results – it doesn’t matter what industry you’re in – and we’ve had great success in this area with Hydreco.”
Hydreco supplies Sloanebuilt with a wide array of hydraulics products and transport components, all of which are incorporated into Sloanebuilt’s trailer builds to ensure top
quality. These products include Power Takeoff Units (PTOs), pumps, valves, air control switches, oil tanks and more.
In addition to these products, Sloanebuilt is also supplied with Hydreco’s in-depth knowledge of the transport industry and its myriad of connections, which Fred says can be reliably called upon to source the perfect product.
“Hydreco can procure or advise on sourcing things that are not mainstream to their product range,” he says. “They’re quite adaptable. They outsource and find other products that we may need to complement our manufacturing builds, and they’ve got the depth of knowledge to advise us on hydraulic circuits, power packs, or whatever else it may be.
“They give good, pertinent advice or guidance in that area. And if they haven’t got it, they’ll find it.”
According to Fred, Hydreco’s thorough and meticulous manufacturing presence is strong in the road transport industry and is enjoyed by many Sloanebuilt customers. He says some even seek out Hydreco-made products in particular to ensure a level of quality.
“Customers have asked us directly to fit
Hydreco’s products,” he says. “Their back-up is great, their warranty is of high standard and their knowledge within the industry is exceptional.”
Throughout their partnership, Sloanebuilt and Hydreco have worked together to finetune products for the market, combining their high standards and deep commitment to servicing the industry.
Ultimately, Hydreco’s wide breadth of knowledge obtained through observing and learning industry trends, Fred says, has enabled it to improve its own designs and remain competitive.
“Hydreco couldn’t have been in the trade for as long as they have been without evolution,” he says. “They’re very proactive and are always seeking out knowledge and seeing what’s new. We do collaborate at a certain level, but they’re also evolving all the time.”
Together, Sloanebuilt and Hydreco will look to continue to raise the bar for manufacturing in the transport industry.
Contact Hydreco Hydraulics
Ph: 02 9838 6882
Web: www.hydreco.com
New Hydreco Hydraulics VA40 hose burst protection valve installation.
Lighting the way
Lucidity Australia has supplied an array of transport customers with lighting and wiring solutions since 1999. This year, in celebration of its 25th anniversary, President, Mathew Jenkins, looks back on an illuminating journey.
Lucidity Australia President, Mathew Jenkins, has been involved with the company’s presence in Australia since its introduction to the local market in 1999.
It was Mathew who essentially built the business from the ground up, and since its acquisition by Lucidity, he and the company’s team formed it into the giant it’s known as today.
Prior to its arrival in Australia, Lucidity, with headquarters based in Taiwan and other subsidiaries in the United States and Europe, was an initial supplier of various manufacturing materials to Mathew’s own company, Phaser Industries.
“I was a customer of Lucidity’s,” he says. “I started Phaser Industries on my own in 1999 and I ran the business locally in Shepparton, Victoria, until Lucidity acquired it.”
When Mathew set out on his own to serve the Australian market, he says Lucidity’s operations in Australia were limited at the time.
“Lucidity was in Australia with a sales representative selling lighting,” he says. “They didn’t have a sales office here or anything like that. It was direct Taiwanese supply.”
Gradually, Phaser’s manufacturing with Lucidity-supplied materials grew into a longstanding professional relationship, while the latter’s presence began to
expand. As Mathew recalls, Lucidity eventually sought to learn his kitting technique – an assembly of wiring and lighting products which created a solution for plug-and-play installations.
“Phaser was also manufacturing a range of LED marker lamps in-house which were the first trailer marker lamps with integrated connectors,” he says.
To properly integrate the kitting skillset into its service offerings and strengthen its influence in the Australian market, Lucidity acquired Phaser in 2013.
“It was a win-win,” Mathew says. “They got to learn about our methods, adopting them globally, and I was able to codesign and manufacture items together and bridge the gaps between lighting and wiring manufacturers. I was creating integrated trailer systems by taking responsibility for the entire electrical architecture and design.”
Now, 2024 commemorates 25 years of the operations of Phaser (and what became Lucidity Australia) in Australia – the company’s very own silver jubilee – which acts as both a symbol of great pride for Mathew, and a symbol of the company’s metamorphosis.
For Lucidity Australia, this last quartercentury has been one of intense expansion. The company has defined itself as a fierce competitor and innovator,
ushering a period of rapid growth which has enabled it to make an influential mark on both domestic and international markets.
“Being able to compete with global competitors in this market is quite a feather in the cap,” Mathew says. “Watching our customers enjoy the service that comes with the product has also been a key highlight. For us, it’s not just about the sale or that we meet budgets. It’s about making sure that our customers are serviced, that they feel like they’re part of the family and that they get what they need in order to keep their products moving.”
The company’s multifaceted competition and technological innovation has propelled it to the top of the industry. Lucidity Australia has branched out massively and expanded its repertoire to include a broader range of fitting types for a multitude of transport vehicles in addition to standard trailers, like certain agricultural vehicles and particular models.
From lighting and wiring, its servicing extends to battery-charging equipment, switchgear and trailer controls. These services are designed to be extremely versatile and adaptable, with the ability for the products be fitted onto a range of simple to complex vehicles and equipment.
“Lucidity Australia has an inherent understanding of fitment, given we’ve had so much exposure to our customers for so long,” Mathew says. “We get very heavily involved in the way things are fitted on
The Lucidity Australia team at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show.
trailers and the possible obstacles there may be. We then come back and come up with a plan as far as how to design a trailer kit or even a light so that it’s fitted faster, more efficiently and is easier to service.
“Having that all-round capability is really what’s been fundamental to our customer base.”
As Mathew reflects on the 25th anniversary since he went out on his own and what has arisen since, the fact that he can still say his products are Australian made is a massive privilege.
“Australian manufacturing is something we’re really proud of,” he says. “All of our cabling, injection and electronic products are manufactured here, and we want to keep building products here.”
Lucidity Australia’s immense progress is a testament to its persevering nature. Mathew says the last year has been a challenging one across the spectrum of the industry, with the skills shortage becoming “profound” since COVID-19. But for Lucidity Australia, it only has its eye on further growth through domestic expansion.
The business has spent nearly $700,000 on new equipment this year to keep its Truganina, Victoria, facility in state-of-theart condition, laying the foundations for a degree of automated manufacturing in the future as well.
Around this, Lucidity Australia is continuously working on bringing new innovations to the market. As Mathew reveals, a new jack-knife sensing
product is currently in development. In its application, the visual indicator will alert drivers when a drawbar gets too close to the lead trailer.
“The concept is that it will prevent drawbar damage when taking too tight of a turn radius with road train vehicles,” he says. “Drawbar damage is quite expensive to repair and the period of time when the product is down is significant.”
Through driver notification, Mathew hopes this alert system will prevent collisions.
It comes off the back of many safetyorientated products released by Lucidity Australia over the past 25 years, such as the EBS Status Lamp, visual reversing sensor kits and the successful Dangerous Goods (DG) Overfill Probe electrical system.
As part of Lucidity Australia’s status as a domestic manufacturer, the company is also well-integrated in the country’s transport sector through varied involvement with industry associations, trailer builders and end users.
“We get a lot of intel on problems that need solving and compatibility issues in transport,” Mathew says. “We’re very much aware that this is where we fit commercially. Being able to solve voltage issues or dissimilarities is one of the things that we’ve been extremely good at.
“We’ve been awarded significant business because we can make trailers work on any voltage.”
The past 25 years have seen Lucidity
Australia undergo major developments, and the company’s presence in the country has transformed a once-limited entity into a leading product manufacturer for many vehicles in the transport industry.
“It’s a proud moment for sure, and one I like to share through our employees,” Mathew says. “We’ve got almost 50 employees in Australia now, and we like to ensure that we share those proceeds annually to help our local families grow.”
As the head of Lucidity Australia, Mathew anticipates that the business’ momentum will lead it to bigger and brighter heights, ensuring that its future in the market is far from dim.
Capral Aluminium has found breakthrough success in the trials of aluminium billets partially made from recycled material. Part of an international partnership working to achieve industry sustainability, the Australian company has set a new production standard.
Capral Aluminium is a mature company with modern values. Founded as British Aluminium Australia in 1936, the aluminium extrusion and distribution company has grown to become a pillar of the industry in its nearly 90-year history, offering a range of aluminium plates, coils and sheets, as well as various extrusion mouldings.
A plethora of rebrands, plant openings and corporate acquisitions – all of which have created Capral as it is today – have been fuelled and underpinned by the profound vision to be Australia’s first choice supplier of aluminium products and solutions. Over the last few decades, that vision may have taken a lot of forms. But today, it means one thing – sustainability.
Capral has long understood the importance of reducing carbon footprints in aluminium production. Following the introduction of the Capral LocAl lower carbon aluminium range in 2022, the company is now incorporating recycled aluminium into its supply chain to deliver further advancements for manufacturers like trailer builders in the heavy vehicle sector which are looking to source more sustainable material options for their builds.
Capral’s launch of the LocAl initiative
was a significant step towards providing lower-carbon aluminium solutions, yet the company believes that introducing extruded aluminium with recycled content could be even more of a gamechanger. And, having actually completed successful trials of the material through its partnership with Middle Eastern aluminium smelter, Aluminium Bahrain BSC (Alba), Capral is now aiming to deliver high-quality, recycled-content aluminium extrusions that meet the performance expectations of local industries.
Earlier this year, Capral, agreed to conduct trials on two of Alba’s aluminium products, EternAl-30 and EternAl-15, both of which are made from 30 per cent and 15 per cent recycled content respectively.
Conducted at Capral’s Bremer Park extrusion press in Queensland in July, the trials were successful and set a ‘new standard’ for carbon reduction and recycled content in the Australian aluminium market, according to Capral Aluminium General Manager of Industrial Division and Supply Chain, Luke Hawkins.
“We have completed rigorous trials of both the Eternal-15 and Eternal-30 aluminium produced by Alba and have successfully produced extrusions that
meet our expectations for tolerance, structural properties, extrudability and finish,” he says. “Australian manufacturers across various sectors are increasingly demanding locally sourced aluminium with recycled content. Our commitment to sustainability and quality means we are actively working with our supply partners to meet these demands.”
The trials marked a significant advancement for both companies, promising new opportunities for local trailer manufacturers interested in putting their best foot forward with more sustainable material for their builds.
According to Luke, utilising recycled materials not only conserves natural resources but also supports a circular economy – one where materials are kept in use indefinitely. In addition, recycling aluminium reportedly consumes up to 95 per cent less energy than producing it from raw materials. As a result, greenhouse gas emissions are extremely reduced, waste in the production process is minimised and more natural resources are conserved. In short, it’s very sustainable.
Following the success of the trials, Capral will now look to integrate Alba’s
EternAl products into its own product range. This will give it the ability to supply lower-carbon aluminium with recycled content to the transport sector as well as a diverse range of other Australian manufacturing industries and applications such as marine, defence, construction, signage and general fabrication.
“This is an exciting achievement for both businesses as it paves the way for Capral to add the Eternal-15 and Eternal-30 options to our product offer, allowing us to deliver extrusions produced using recycled content for the Australian market,” Luke says. “We are very grateful to our supply partner Alba for taking a leadership position in this space and producing a high-quality primary aluminium option.”
Capral’s fruitful partnership with Alba has been largely driven by the companies’ similar climate-conscious missions and approaches towards achieving their respective visions.
Alba, Luke explains, has been particularly proactive in responding to Capral’s needs and supporting its desire to investigate options around primary billet with recycled content. Thus, Capral’s optimism in adding the recycled aluminium range to its offering is based on a mutual respect between both companies and the extremely high quality of the product itself.
Though it also comes down to the fact that Alba, like Capral, is an ASI Chain of Custody certified organisation.
“This gives us great confidence that they are ensuring the material they supply to Capral has been produced responsibly at every stage in the aluminium value chain,” Luke says. “It gives us great confidence in taking this product to market knowing that it will deliver a best in-class sustainable solution for Australian manufacturers.”
Capral and Alba’s successful trials, while a major innovation in sustainability across many industries, is only the beginning.
Following this exciting momentum, Capral will not only focus on integrating the Alba products into its existing offerings but will also look to set new benchmarks for sustainability in the aluminium industry.
As the demand for lower-carbon options continues to rise, Luke says Capral’s initiatives will enable Australian manufacturers to align their operations with sustainability goals, thereby contributing to a more eco-conscious economy.
“Sustainability is at the core of Capral’s operations,” he says. “Recognising the urgent need to address climate change, Capral will continue to explore innovative ways to reduce environmental impact and support customers in their sustainability journeys.”
Contact Capral Aluminium
Ph: 1800 258 646
Web: www.capral.com.au
Capral Aluminium conducting trials on two of Aluminium Bahrain BSC’s recycled aluminium products.
Razor-sharp focus
Razor International has its eye on growth in Australia with a plan in place to significantly improve its sales and service in the local market.
Razor International was established in 1998 after founders Geoffrey Watson and Darryl Baird came up with an idea and what would become Razor, an intelligent electronic system for winding semi-trailer landing legs. Leading to the development of tarp systems alike, the business flourished further to offer a range of electronic products for transport convenience.
“The main objective was to create a product to cut out manual crankings of landing legs,” says Razor International General Manager, Salvatore Calcagno.
“Then, we adapted the product into the tipper market primarily through tipper trucks and grain trailers for automating the tarp manual cranking process.”
Razor International’s flagship landing leg system attaches onto the landing leg itself, and with simple up and down buttons, it allows operators to automate the process of lifting and lowering them. The company’s success with this product ultimately allowed it to branch out further with other solutions.
Now, after a record-breaking year of sales and manufacturing in 2023, Razor International is looking to improve its sales and service even further while broadening its global reach.
“We’re breaking records in the truck industry following COVID-19,” Salvatore
says. “We’re an international company, so the plan is to now expand our reach and adapt to globalisation.”
As part of this, Razor International is introducing its new Sales Manager, Dayle Graham, who brings his expertise in trailer manufacturing to the foreground. Dayle, who has previously worked with reputable trailer builders, has over 40 years of experience in the industry.
“We want to increase our reach in Australia and familiarise ourselves with the end users and the people fitting our product while using Dayle’s previous experience to further grow our company,” Salvatore says. “Dayle will provide expertise into what our product can do in the field. His network will show potential customers the advantages of our product and a key insight into the trucking industry as a whole.”
Dayle has a lot of experience with OEMs and body builders, as well exposure with Razor International’s own product in the field. Coupled with his ‘well-known name in the industry’, he will lead Razor International through its next phase of growth.
“Dayle’s understanding of the benefits of our products and why people should be fitting it as a requirement, rather than an accessory, will benefit the industry,” Salvatore says. “He’ll be able to prove that it really does help out with OH&S in the workplace.”
Contact
Razor International
Ph: 03 9357 7181
Web: www.razorinternational.com
Razor International Managing Director, Geo rey Watson, and Sales Manager, Dayle Graham.
Razor Internation Razor DII landing leg system.
Images: Razor International.
Safe house
Through its diverse range of innovations and products for trailers and prime movers, JOST is playing a key role in contributing towards improved safety.
While JOST may primarily be known for its success in fifth wheels, the OEM is advancing on a mission towards something greater. Taking a deep dive into safety, a factor prevalent in transport today, JOST is looking to make a positive impact with its latest developments.
A regular issue within the transport industry has been the case of incorrect couplings which can result in dropped trailers and significant damages – a very costly error for those to experience it. Yet JOST looks to offer another solution through one of its latest innovations, LocLight.
“A key issue when trying to set up road
trains, B-doubles and multiple trailer applications is there’s more than one fifth wheel on the vehicle,” says JOST Australia National Fleet Manager, Shane Harbridge. “So, to ensure that we’ve got the technology there for people to be able to have that second tier of safety when they hook up a B-double or a dolly is essential.”
As an extra preventative, JOST’s LocLight sensor system does just that. The system, featuring a dual sensor monitoring setup and LED illumination with orbital sounder, has the ability to ensure secure and reliable couplings while reducing the risk of errors.
Loc-Light is integrated with a green/ red indicator near the handle of the fifth wheel, and how this works is very simple; when the handle and kingpin are properly locked, the light turns green which signals that the trailer has been coupled correctly. However, if the handle or kingpin is not locked correctly, the light flashes red and the orbital sounder will give an alarm.
“Loc-Light wires into a power supply on the truck, trailer or dolly with its own independent light on the side of the fifth wheel,” Shane says. “If operators hook, say, a B-double or a road train up, when they walk down the combination and go to plug the hoses and everything in, they
JOST’s Loc-Light.
will also have a light display as an extra indicator in addition to their regular visual inspection.”
Loc-Light’s built-in orbital sounder will also alert operators if there is something wrong with the fifth wheel or the way that the trailer has been connected.
As Loc-Light rolls out in fleets across the country, JOST is confident that it will make the coupling process easier and the chances of dropped trailers and damages less likely. But, this isn’t the only solution that the OEM brings to the table in this area.
JOST also possesses other critical technologies such as Rockinger couplings which can be fitted with additional safety features such as jack-knife sensors, air operation and dash sensor displays with sensor lock indicators. The latest addition to the Rockinger coupling includes the drawbar finder which is integrated with a camera for in-dash display.
Meanwhile, JOST’s unique Sensor Coupling System can tell whether a fifth wheel is coupled correctly or incorrectly. By being able to prevent false couplings and dropped trailers from occurring, it can provide operators with extra peace of mind when connecting trailers and prime movers.
It does this using three sensors fitted to the turntable – one on the plate surface to detect whether or not the skid plate on the trailer is in contact with the fifth wheel plate surface, one to detect the kingpin and ensure the lock jaw is secured around it and one on the handle latch to ensure
the handle is in the fully locked position. If any or all of these sensors detect an irregularity, the Sensor Coupling System will alert the driver that something is wrong and that the coupling process needs to be revisited.
The technology in some of these systems, according to JOST, is also what ultimately led to the successful development of its revolutionary automatic coupling system, KKS, which debuted in the Australian market at last year’s Brisbane Truck Show.
KKS basically automates the entire coupling and uncoupling process with the push of a button on a remote control, and JOST claims it has the potential to halve the time it takes to change a trailer while eliminating all physically demanding activities associated with the coupling/ uncoupling process.
KKS is more than one single component. Relying on a unique combination of the fifth wheel coupling, connectors, electric landing leg gear and remote control, all of the individual components come together to ensure trailer swapping is fast and safe.
In addition to being a big efficiency gain, it is also reported to almost halve costs per truck trip depending on the transport order, driving and saddle time. The core of the product is a high-quality 2” cast saddle coupling KKS 42 which is tried, tested, reliable and highly functional.
Together with the KKS Connector (which is fitted under the body of the trailer), it forms the revolutionary sensor coupling system with Sensoric, LubeTronic and pneumatic opening cylinders.
The unique KKS Connector automatically and securely establishes all mechanical, electrical and pneumatic connections between the truck and trailer, thus eliminating the need for spiral lines for air, electrics and Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) as well as Electronic Braking Systems (EBS).
KKS also eliminates the need for landing leg cranks, ensured by the robust KKS E-Drive landing legs. This is an electric support winch that is also controlled via the KKS remote control and replaces the time-consuming and physically strenuous cranking. By eliminating the crank, JOST claims the space requirement is reduced enormously.
In addition, KKS also helps reduce OH&S concerns when it comes to manually connecting or disconnecting vehicles such as pulling the fifth wheel handle, winding landing legs and climbing on and off the vehicle to connect hoses.
JOST’s KKS, Sensor Coupling System, Rockinger drawbar finder and Loc-Light are all innovations which build on the company’s already extensive product lineup of fifth wheels, landing legs, kingpins, ballraces and more. Demonstrating a significant commitment from an OEM perspective, JOST is on the hunt for better safety measures in transport, pursuing one solution after the other.
JOST’s KKS.
Secon Freight Logistics finalises expansion, plans for future growth
Secon Freight Logistics has completed a series of investments to bolster its operations not only in Victoria but Australia-wide.
Secon Freight Logistics has installed 30 new reefer points at its Truganina, Victoria, site for its refrigerated containers. The move brings the location’s total number of reefer points to 50, increasing Secon’s ability to store and stage perishable goods with greater efficiency while also expanding its capacity to support the growing demands of customers.
Secon Freight Logistics CEO, Daniel Considine, tells Trailer the notable investment was necessary with the company continuing to bring in a number of temperature-controlled containers.
“We were just running out of points,” he says. “We had 20 reefer points at any point in time, but we were starting to run out of room and capacity in scenarios where vessels started bunching in or were delayed for export.
“So, what do you do with refrigerated goods when you can’t put them on power?
It became very challenging for us.”
To develop and bring the new reefer points in, Secon worked directly with its in-house electrician that has been with the business for many years.
Increasing the number of points at the facility and successfully getting enough power were key concerns.
“These refrigerated units draw a lot of power,” Daniel says. “They need a lot of amps, and it’s quite a large process to be able to get that amount of power to a site.
“We leveraged off our forklift charger unit, put a whole new electricity board in and added 30 units. We can now have 50 refrigerated units onsite at any point in time.”
The biggest benefit of this investment, Daniel says, is that it means Secon won’t have to move containers to other sites to find new charging points anymore. In addition, the business will also be able
to sell space, pick up more freight from terminals and be able to better service its growing customer base in food and pharmaceutical goods to export.
“It is a significant financial investment,” he says. “We try and keep our costs down as much as we can, and something that
can’t go on power or fails to go on power – such as one container – can be worth millions of dollars’ of goods.
“We can’t afford millions of dollars of goods to go to waste because they couldn’t go on power. So, we’ve taken this investment and have made sure that our customers are looked after, that they will always have security over their goods and that their goods are temperature controlled as they have engaged us to do so.”
The 30 new reefer points follow the recent expansion of Secon’s Truganina container yard with the addition of 10,000 square metres of 120-tonne rated hardstand.
This increased the location’s size from 26,000 square metres to 35,000, giving Secon the ability to fit 2,500 containers in the yard and enhance its capabilities to handle and store additional volumes.
“We only had 20 reefer points, so we needed to increase that ratio and be able to service our larger customers with not
only standard containers but refrigerated containers as well,” Daniel says. “We were probably under-servicing on the refrigerated space, and we were turning enquiries away because we didn’t have the capacity. Now, we can take on those new customers and the new volume.”
Secon, which manufactures its own specialised trailers, is also in the process of obtaining an extra five new units.
“We’ve also redesigned those specialised trailers to be able to handle PVC powder,” Daniel says. “So, not only bulk product and bead product, but powdered product. That’s another inhouse innovation that we’ve designed.”
Secon fabricates these trailers in its workshops – coming up with the designs on its own and then sending them off to get mass produced.
“Doing this protects our intellectual property (IP),” Daniel says. “We want our IP to be protected. It’s hard to get patents and what not, and we prefer to design and be able to come up with our own solutions
that fit our customers’ requirements.”
These latest infrastructure and fleet investments follow Secon’s expansion into Sydney in September last year, Brisbane in January and Western Australia in June this year.
Secon, leveraging off the national footprint of Silk Logistics Holdings which acquired it on 31 August last year, has since been able to maximise its operations by getting into all of these major cities.
“We’re now national,” Daniel says. “We’ve got our trucks and trailers in Sydney, Brisbane and WA, on the back of taking on a powdered customer in June this year.”
In terms of the future, Daniel says there are “always” big plans on the horizon.
Around other infrastructure investments, the company is planning on procuring and building another five new trailers next year.
“It’s exciting,” he says. “We’re in good times.”
The investments, according to Secon Freight Logistics, were necessary due to business growth and demand.
Images: Secon Freight Logistics.
VIC Government to take livestock combinations off roads
A trial by the Victorian Government will permit livestock trucks to travel through Melbourne’s CityLink tunnels.
The Victorian Government is partnering with the freight industry and Transurban on a new trial to take livestock trucks off city streets, making travel simpler and safer for drivers, pedestrians and livestock.
The 12-month trial will begin early next year, permitting livestock trucks to use Melbourne’s Burnley and Domain tunnels which will help to take up to 600 trucks off city streets each week.
According to Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne, it will mean large livestock trucks will no longer have to rely on travelling busy city streets including City Road, Power Street, Olympic Boulevard and Hoddle Street.
“This trial is a win-win for our city and our freight industry,” she said. “By taking livestock trucks off inner-city streets and into the tunnels, we’re improving road safety while also keeping our freight sector moving.”
Livestock trucks were previously banned from the tunnels due to low-clearance infrastructure, but recent upgrades which raised the overhead infrastructure to a safe height has since enabled these trucks to pass through without posing risks to the animals.
Victorian Minister for Agriculture, Ros Spence, stressed the importance of the animals’ wellbeing during these transports.
“The welfare of livestock – whether on farm or in transit – is important to all Victorians, transporting livestock in the most direct and safest route will improve their wellbeing and safety,” she said.
To support the trial, additional signage and road markings will be added on arterial roads, helping livestock truck drivers navigate the busy city freeways more easily.
Transurban Group Executive Australian Markets, Nicole Green, said road safety is paramount to Transurban.
“We’ve been making changes to our tunnel infrastructure in recent years and this, coupled with modernisation of
vehicles transporting livestock, has made using the tunnels a viable option.”
This latest initiative builds on the Victorian Government’s track record of getting trucks off local roads, including a $10.2 million investment in camera technology to enforce 24/7 truck bans in the inner west and a lease with the Port of Melbourne that will reduce truck trips to and from the Port.
positive gain for the transport industry.
According to VTA CEO, Peter Anderson, the initiative reflects a “commonsense approach that accounts for recent infrastructure upgrades to the tunnels and advances in heavy vehicle technology”.
“This decision is a win-win for the freight industry and all road users, and we are very pleased that common sense has prevailed,” he said. “We commend the
“This decision is a win-win for the freight industry and all road users.”
The freight and logistics sector contributes $21 billion to Victoria’s economy and employs roughly 260,000 Victorians, with freight volumes predicted to increase from around 360 million tonnes in 2014 to nearly 900 million tonnes in 2051.
Following the State Government’s announcement, the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) welcomed the news as a
Department of Planning and Transport, Transurban and the City of Melbourne for this move, which will help to create safer and more efficient roads, without impeding the critical flow of freight throughout our city.”
Anderson explained that the VTA have long championed improved management of heavy vehicles on the state’s roads.
“When you account for recent
infrastructure upgrades to the tunnels and advances in heavy vehicle technology, this decision makes perfect sense,” he said.
“We thank all stakeholders who supported this trial, including candidate for Lord Mayor, Arron Wood AM.
“As freight volumes continue to rise, this trial sets a vital precedent for future infrastructure planning and the continued safe and efficient movement of goods throughout Melbourne.”
Victorian Transport Association CEO, Peter Anderson. Image: Victorian Transport Association.
$3B construction of Queensland’s second M1 hits milestone
Major construction milestones have been delivered across all three packages of Queensland’s Coomera Connector project.
The Australian and Queensland Governments have been making strides on the Coomera Connector between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. More than one million working hours have been clocked by crews on the Stage 1 North package, with some significant achievements reached.
The almost one kilometre-long bridge that spans the Coomera River, Hope Island Road and Saltwater Creek is rapidly taking shape, with 350 bridge girders installed and 13 bridge deck concrete pours completed. Further installations have since begun on the 50 girders required for the overpass and pedestrian bridges over Helensvale Road. Crews have also laid more than 1,500 metres of asphalt,
including the first section of the main motorway alignment near McPhail Road and in areas for future widening around the Helensvale Road interchange and Shipper Drive.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said the Coomera Connector – as one of the region’s biggest infrastructure investments – will improve safety and transport capacity.
“It will also ensure the viability of the M1 not only from a national freight perspective but also, as an intra-regional commuter route and an integral part of the region’s tourism system,” she said. “The Australian Government is committed to delivering
infrastructure that builds Australia, and the Coomera Connector is just one example of how we are doing that for south east Queensland.”
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Bart Mellish, has been pleased with the progress made so far.
“The Miles Government’s investment in better transport could not be more evident than it is on the Coomera Connector,” he said. “Our Big Build is all go on the Coomera Connector, and as one of the state’s largest transport infrastructure projects, it is great to see so much construction taking shape.
“The Coomera Connector is generating jobs and improving connectivity in the region, ensuring our state’s two largest cities stay better connected.”
Over the next six months, work will also begin to ramp up for the Coomera Link Road section, where a new signalised intersection will be installed at the Foxwell Road and Shipper Drive roundabout.
Set up of the site compound on the South Package is currently underway and heavy vehicle access has been constructed at Boulton Drive to allow critical preloading works to start in the coming months.
“Giving motorists other travel options is one of the best ways we can relieve our reliance on the M1,” said Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Queensland Senator, Anthony Chisholm.
“The Coomera Connector will cut travel times for thousands of locals and visitors, so it’s great to be on site today to see the progress being made on what will be one of the Gold Coast’s major road corridors.”
The $3 billion project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments.
Stage 1 of the Coomera Connector is expected to progressively open to traffic in sections from late 2025.
A recent shot of the project, located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast.
Image: Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Road upgrades & new developments
What you need to know about Australia’s biggest road projects this month
$1.2B Gympie Bypass close to completion
Completion of works on Queensland’s $1.2 billion Gympie Bypass are on track to be finished this month.
Over 3,000 community members recently celebrated the milestone on a section of the bypass near the Flood Road interchange on 17 August, getting the chance to access a part of the new highway before its official opening.
The Gympie Bypass project has involved constructing a new 26-kilometre, four-lane divided highway between the existing Bruce Highway interchange at Woondum, just south of Gympie, and Curra.
It is the final section of a 62-kilometre, $2.5 billion program of works to upgrade the Bruce Highway between Cooroy and Curra which began in September 2009.
“This is the culmination of 15 years’ worth of construction on the 62-kilometre Bruce Highway upgrade, and it’s a privilege to celebrate this massive achievement,” said Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm.
The Gympie Bypass project is jointly funded with the Australian Government committing $929.6 million and the Queensland Government contributing $232.4 million.
With final works underway to prepare the new highway for traffic, Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Bart Mellish, said the project is now close to the finish line.
“Our construction partners have built 42 bridges at 23 locations, moved more than six million cubic metres of earth, and laid over 142 kilometres of pavement and 610,000 tonnes of asphalt,” he said.
“This has been a monumental project for the Gympie region.”
Major $80M boost announced for Pilbara freight productivity and road safety
Nearly $80 million worth of road upgrades and improvements are currently underway to improve freight productivity and safety in Western Australia’s Pilbara region.
The State Government is investing significantly to upgrade more than 150 kilometres of the Great Northern Highway between Kumarina and Newman.
The construction of five new overtaking lanes between Newman and Munjina is expected to be completed later this year, with a further six overtaking lanes between Munjina and Port Hedland to also commence later this year as part of a second stage.
A total of $50 million has been allocated to deliver the 11 overtaking lanes under the Roads of Strategic Importance program, which is jointly funded by the Australian and WA Governments.
With more than 60 per cent of traffic between Newman and Port Hedland comprising of heavy vehicles, the new lanes will enhance the existing freight network, increasing transport efficiency and improving road safety.
A further $29 million is also being invested to seal the shoulders and install audible edge lines to more than 150 kilometres of the Great Northern Highway between Kumarina and Newman.
The works are being delivered as part of the State Government’s landmark $1 billion Regional Road Safety Program, which will see safety upgrades delivered to around 10,000 kilometres of the state’s regional road network by the middle of 2025.
$200M announced for NSW regional road safety upgrades
The New South Wales Government has announced a $202 million investment into essential safety upgrades across the state, with the objective of reducing road toll and the impact of road trauma on communities.
This investment will fund 72 separate road safety projects in rural and remote areas in round two of the NSW Government’s Towards Zero – Safer Roads Program and as part of its $2.8 billion road safety budget.
The vital upgrades made through the program are expected to prevent over 2,000 fatal or serious injuries caused by vehicle crashes.
Upgrades to improve safety may include installing safety barriers and shoulder widening to help reduce the risk of crashes on higher speed country roads.
“The projects under this program vary in size, location and cost, but the really important thing they have in common is that they will all improve the safety of the people driving on them,” said NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchson.
“These upgrades will make our roads safer for all road users, locals and visitors, and this investment will go a long way towards achieving the goal of ensuring everyone gets home safely every time to their loved ones.
“With $202 million to target and improve safety on roads in our regional areas, lives will be saved.”
The power of the provinces
Intermodal infrastructure projects at Europe’s largest port will be key to driving more efficient freight transportation and sustainability outcomes for the Netherlands.
Integrated logistics company, A.P. Moller – Maersk, inaugurated a specialised cross dock warehouse in Rotterdam on its Maasvlakte II terminal earlier this year. It is expected to accelerate the flow of cargo significantly from arrival on a vessel to the point of sale – especially in the Benelux, German and French hinterland.
After discharging containers from an arriving vessel, the products can be unpacked, transloaded to conventional trucks and dispatched to their final destination within hours. Maersk welcomed Starbucks as the first customer in the warehouse which features a total space of 23,000 square metres, 120 docks as well as interim storage space.
The launch of the specialised cross dock warehouse right next to where the containers are being discharged from Maersk’s vessels showcases the company’s capability to control and manage its customers’ supply chains at every step from factory to consumer. It also bolsters resilience, flexibility and visibility to supply chains in times of increased disruption and geopolitical risks.
“In our new cross dock we are speeding up a part of the supply chain where others
Keeping it cool
ERH Refrigerated Transport Kenworths to its growing fleet of prime movers.
Melbourne-based cold carrier, ERH Refrigerated Transport, has deployed three new Kenworth K220s with another two on the way.
The 97-tonne Gross Combination Mass (GCM) rated units are specified for pulling road trains along the eastern seaboard between Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney for ERH’s temperature sensitive freight tasks.
The K220s are powered by 550hp Cummins X15 Euro 5 engines and Eaton Endurant XD Pro automatic transmissions with Meritor RT46160 axles, and were specified to ERH’s specific needs by Hallam Truck Centre in Melbourne.
Exterior bling kits include Barup bullbars, drop visor tank trims, extra grill bars, additional roof and mirror lights, two 650-litre rectangular fuel tanks and a column-mounted transmission control.
sleeper cabs are custom-made storage shelves and a bunk cooler with auxiliary lithium batteries.
that’s what we do,” says ERH Refrigerated Transport Director, Rupert Smith. “We have some standing orders with Kenworth every year based on a fleet replacement program for growth, and when we got the opportunity to move to the K220s we jumped on it.”
says the feedback has been positive all-round.
fantastic,” he says. “Everyone has been super impressed with the ergonomics of the new cab. They think it will keep the heat out in the summer.”
Truck Shows & Field Days 2024
Pencil in some information on dates and venues of various truck shows, field days and road transport industry conferences both locally and internationally.
A municipal works, civil and commercial construction event.
17-18 September 2025,
In September 2025, a new event will be landing at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Converge will bring together leading decision makers in the Municipal Works, Civil and Commercial Construction space, to share the tools, ideas and technologies that are shaping these sectors.
