WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - NOVEMBER 2020 edition by Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd

THE TRANSPORT AND MACHINERY MAGAZINE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

ISSN 2202-6193

100007516 November 2020 | price $6.95

TRANSPORT magazine

When John Branchi began Agspread 25 years ago, little did he know how large and diverse his business would become. With his family by his side he grew his South-west-based business to the stage where his sons would take over and eventually steer a different path — hauling bulk materials throughout WA and interstate, for the mining, civil and agricultural sectors

Callum Yates, Travis and Aron Branchi

WITH THE FIRST 25 YEARS NOW BEHIND AGSPREAD, IT’S TIME TO FOCUS ON THE NEXT QUARTER CENTURY

IN THIS ISSUE: Drivers needed Parking Bays – Safety LRTAWA 40th Year Industry Day Budget delivers for transport WATM • November 2020

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Sharing the load By Tim Dawson | Branch Secretary

Transport workers are at an increased risk of poor Mental Health and what the union is aiming to do to change that.

he prevalence of poor mental health has devastating and lasting impacts. Not only for the individual but those surrounding them, as well as the community at large. Each year, over 65,000 Australians will make a suicide attempt. 75% of those who die by suicide are men. Compared to other male-dominated professions, truck drivers are at an increased risk of suicide, for many reasons. Exposure to traumatic events, isolation, lifestyle factors, and the stigma of discussing oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health issues are just some of the factors that influence the mental health of those in transport. Research by the Black Dog Institute found that 54% of those experiencing mental distress, wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t access the help needed. Men, overly represented in the industry, are known to be at the greatest risk of dying by suicide, but quite often, least likely to seek help. Applying these statistics to the transport industry means there could be at least 30,000 transport workers across Australia suffering from some form of mental health issue annually. Those in the transport industry reported the risk of exposure to traumatic events as extraordinarily high. Accidents where one might be subjected to, severely wounded individuals, corpses, body parts, screams of injured persons, and the interrogation of the drivers after an incident, are all traumatising. Often, following these events, drivers are not provided with adequate services other than Employee Assistance

Programs to help them deal with the horrific events often experienced on Australian roads. Several studies from the transport industry suggest that the importance of peer support is integral to improving workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mental health. Workers viewed their peers (especially those who had experienced a similar event) as a fundamental source of support after traumatic events.

The purpose of this initiative from the TWU WA will aim to raise awareness about mental health issues affecting transport workers and improve mental health across WA The Transport Workersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union (TWU) has been engaging industry stakeholders, as well as Ministers, educating them about the importance of intervention in the transport industry. From this, a peer-to-peer support program is being produced by the TWU WA to address three pillars of improving mental health: Normalising - Talking about mental health and encouraging people to discuss mental health concerns openly and without fear of reprisal, in the same manner as physical injuries. Promoting - Promoting information and support to workers who may experience

mental health concerns. Supporting - Providing support to organisations to establish peer to peer mental health programs for workers, including training mental health workers and encouraging publicity of their availability. The purpose of this initiative from the TWU WA will aim to raise awareness about mental health issues affecting transport workers and improve mental health across WA. The initiative will target all levels of transport, from worker to Government. The program will aim to reduce the alarming number of deaths by suicide in transport through the implementation of a program that is accessible, comprehensive, and effective. And aim to create an industry recognised and identifiable support program in an environment that is often excluded from discussions regarding mental health and death by suicide. By utilising Mental Health First-Aid Training which is developed under strict guidelines to ensure best practice first aid is delivered with a valid, widely accepted, and standard qualification. This topic can be confronting, if you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, you do not have to do it alone. There are many people and organisations that want to help you. These contacts can help in a crisis or just lend an ear, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Beyondblue | 1300 22 4636 Lifeline | 13 11 14 Suicide Call Back Service | 1300 659 467

WA Truckies DESERVE BETTER! SIGN THE PETITION & SUPPORT BETTER TRUCK BAYS & AMENITIES FOR WA TRUCKIES đ&#x;&#x201C;&#x17E;đ&#x;&#x201C;&#x17E;đ&#x;&#x201C;&#x17E; 1800 657 477 â&#x153;&#x2030; info@twuwa.org.au

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magazine

VOLUME 26 | NUMBER 10

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd Telephone 0430 153 273 www.angrychicken.com.au ABN: 35 486 530 095

PUBLISHER / COMMISSIONING EDITOR Karen-Maree’ Kaye T: 08 9296 4488 Email: karen@angrychicken.com.au WRITERS Karen-Maree' Kaye, Russell McKinnon CONTRIBUTORS Jan Cooper, Cam Dumesny, Carol Messenger, Ray Pratt ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Angry Chicken Head Office T: 0430 153 273 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au

hank you to the kind reader who recently nominated WA Transport Magazine for a WA industry award. Whoever you are, you made my day. In this edition, we celebrate two important milestones in the WA transport industry. Congratulations to Agspread Haulage Co on your 25th Anniversary and thank you for choosing WA Transport magazine to celebrate it. I enjoy doing company profiles and anniversary celebrations on WA transport businesses particularly regional family-owned

businesses like this one, where the business is growing from generation to generation. Other congratulations are in order to Jan Cooper, CEO of the LRTAWA for putting together a successful industry day to celebrate the LRTAWA’s 40th Anniversary. WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti attended the event and a lot was discussed about our industry which is all covered on page 3. Welcome to all the new readers, and thank you to every person and business who supports this magazine. Best,

DESIGN / PREPRESS Cally Browning | Bare Creative ACCOUNTS T: 08 9296 4488 E: accounts@angrychicken.com.au

CONTENTS

PRINTER Daniels Printing Craftsmen SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions available directly from the Publisher. T: 08 9296 4488 E: karen@angrychicken.com.au Australia: 1 year $65.95 (inc GST) 2 years $127.55 (inc GST) Overseas subscribers: Airmail postage will be added to subscription rate. Editorial Submissions: The Publisher welcomes editorial submissions. Once received they will become the property of the Publisher who reserves the right to edit the or adjust the content to fit with the format of our publication.

Karen

3............................................... LRTAWA 40th Year Industry Day 7................................................ Muscle Mite has a makeover 8............................................... 530 – That is how many lives have been lost on WA regional roads 12............................................ Proposed Dongara-Geraldton-Northampton route 14............................................ Agspread Haulage Co – 25th Anniversary 25.......................................... Reid Highway Upgrade complete 26.......................................... Western Roads Federation - Why road transport is losing 28.......................................... Resources and energy exports remain strong

West Australian Transport Magazine (WATM) is published by Angry Chicken Publishing Pty Ltd

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ABN: 35 486 530 095 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, adapted or transmitted in any form by any process (graphic, electronic, mechanical or storage and retrieval system) or sold, resold or otherwise exploited for any purpose without consent of the Publisher. The publisher, contributors, editors and consultants disclaim any and all liability and responsibility to any person or party, be they a purchaser, reader, advertiser or consumer of this publication in regards to consequences and outcomes of anything done or omitted, or being in reliance whether partly or solely on the contents of this publication. No person, organization or party should rely on or on any way act upon any part of the contents of this magazine without first obtaining the advice of a fully qualified person. The Publisher shall have no responsibility for any action or omission by contributor, consultant, editor or related party for content within WATM. The opinions and content within WATM does not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher, editor or their agents. No responsibility is accepted for damage or loss of material supplied to the publisher.

WATM • November 2020 October 2020

Every Month 9............................................... Questions to the WA State Government 10............................................ Fair Go for Owner Drivers 13............................................ Bird’s Eye View 31............................................. HCVC 32.......................................... WA Transport History Endorsed by

LRTAWA 40th Year Industry Day LRTAWA by Jan Cooper, CEO, Livestock and Rural Transport Association of Western Australia (Inc)

Connectivity, Productivity and Unity – The Road Ahead

LRTAWA 2020 40th Year Industry Day

new adage has entered our language – ‘if you want it to rain, get the LRTAWA to have an event’ On the windiest day in September with the coldest maximum temperature and the second highest rainfall for the month, rural transporters and their sponsors braved the elements to showcase the best the industry has to offer. The banks of our beautiful Swan River provided a photographic backdrop for a stunning display of heavy vehicles enhanced by moody skies and puddles. Breakfast around the trucks was welcomed by hard working and somewhat soggy volunteers helping to set the display up. In opening the event the Minister for Transport and Planning, Rita Saffioti MLA drew attention to the impact that COVID-19 had had on WA and she thanked everyone in the room for their contribution. ‘It highlights the importance of freight and logistics on the path to economic recovery,’ she said.’ Prior to the Minister’s presentation, President of the LRTAWA Mr David Fyfe, who was earlier re-elected at the association’s annual general meeting, identified five criteria the association would be concentrating on next year. He said a common theme of discussions around the committee table was that operators should not have to break the law to compete. ‘When we pick that apart a bit more there are several essential elements we

need to perform safely and efficiently. Firstly, network access decisions must be equitable for everyone. The determination of what is equitable should be viewed from the operator’s perspective, not the regulator’s. We after all are the ones running the business. Secondly, RAV access must facilitate connection from pick up to destination such as depots, feedlots, abattoirs, hookup areas. Transporters need the ability to deliver and remove product from farms on a network that does not have breaks in it or does not require trucks to take the long way round to get to the destination. Third – we need to adopt some key

criteria for freight routes – no roundabouts, no pushbikes, there should be warning lights, residential and commercial buildings should not be allowed to the edge of the route and decisions should be based on the true traffic volume on the network. We think it is important that transporters are genuinely consulted in freight route development. Our fourth criterion is that the RAV network should be modernised. The levels should be condensed to take advantage of new equipment and innovation. Network 3 and 4 should be combined and networks 5 and 6 should be combined. We are all make large investments in equipment with the

Assistant Commissioner Jo McCabe and the Stock Squad

WATM • November 2020

LRTAWA 40th Year Industry Day

He said a common theme of discussions around the committee table was that operators should not have to break the law to compete Evertrans dolly

latest safety features and we need to get the benefit of that investment. And finally, it is important that if access to a network is denied after the regulators have attempted to find a way to provide it, then the network must be policed so that those who break the rules do not gain an advantage over the compliant operators.’ These five key points will be a significant focus for the LRTAWA this year and you will be hearing more from us about them as the year progresses, Mr Fyfe said. Mr Fyfe also pointed to the driver shortage as another area of focus. He said ‘the LRTAWA is at pains to emphasise that it is skilled drivers we are short of. ‘We need to take a different approach to driver training than what has traditionally been the case. The age at which a young person can obtain a licence is too high. ‘At the same time, we need to make sure

LRTAWA President David Fyfe and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti

WATM • November 2020

a young person has practical, structured training and on-the -job mentoring. ‘Whether this is through a traineeship or some other program is not that relevant. What is important however is that we produce professional drivers who know what they are doing, and that a transport company can have confidence in when they step into what is a big investment. ‘It costs money to train drivers properly. A business operator loses productivity whilst training a new person. The flip side is that potential drivers need encouragement and financial support to move to the regions.’ Ms Saffioti having heard Mr Fyfe outline the program for the year committed to greater engagement with the LRTAWA on the key issues this year - a promise that was warmly welcomed by LRTAWA members. The Minister also undertook to consider adding rural transporters to the Freight and

Logistics Council. COVID-19 has meant the LRTAWA has had more interaction with police this year than normal. Mr Fyfe thanked various individual police officers for their support in navigating border restrictions and other issues. It was therefore fitting to hear from Assistant Commissioner for Police, Regional WA, Ms Jo McCabe who introduced delegates to officers from the new Rural Crime Unit, highlighting that 46% of thefts in regional areas related to livestock with fuel and sandalwood being high on the list as well. Ms McCabe said the best thing that transporters could do was to ‘report, report, report.’ Transporters are in a good position to notice situations that are out of the ordinary and to let police know. All snippets of information, no matter how small, are welcomed to help build a strong intelligence picture of incidents occurring in regional WA. WA Police have also rolled out a reporting mobile phone application called “Eyes on the Street”. Using this app suspicious behaviour can be reported and photographs and videos uploaded. People can remain anonymous. Outgoing President of the Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters

The Livestock & Rural Transport Association of WA The LRTAWA greatly appreciates the support and ongoing commitment of the following sponsors at the 40th Conference/Industry Day THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING 2020 SPONSORS

DIAMOND

SAPPHIRE

Bunbury Tyrepower

Airbrake Corporation

City Panel Beaters Truck Repairs

All Truck Spares

CJD Trucks Perth Evertrans Fuel Distributors of WA Forch Australia Fuwa K Hitch Jost Australia K Craft Bullbars KRU Engineering

Ausquip Industries Boomerang Engineering Capricorn Society Countrywide Insurance Brokers Equipment Finance Services General Transport Equipment

Pacific Finance Australia

Lake Grace Tyrepower

Penske Power Systems Perth

Teletrac Navman

Michelin Australia

Phoenix Insurance Brokers

NATIONAL BP Byrne Trailers Cummins South Pacific Lowes Goodyear National Transport Insurance Paccar Australia

PEARL Great Southern Fuel Supplies Kumho Tyres Truck Art Livestock Trailers

SAF Holland

Western Meat Packers

Swan Towing

Paccar Parts

Truckline Truck Centre

THE VOICE OF WA RURAL TRANSPORT SINCE 1980 — PROMOTING SAFETY, PRODUCTIVITY & EFFICIENCY

08 9208 0320

WATM • November 2020

LRTAWA 40th Year Industry Day Mike Buba and Des Snook – Main Roads

Cliff Atkinson, Phoenix Insurance Brokers and Mark Talbot LRTAWA

Association, Stephen Marley highlighted the association’s successful lobbying for a smaller increase in registration charges from an initial suggestion of 11.8% over three years to a smaller increase of 2.5% in two consecutive years as one of the big successes for the year.

WATM • November 2020

‘That is money that will stay in your pocket, in your business and in your communities,’ he said. Mr Marley also noted the LRTAWA proposal to establish an income smoothing scheme for rural transporters, similar to the Farm Management Deposit Scheme, was

receiving good support from the Australian Government and there was hope that it may feature in the October budget. Main Roads representatives Des Snook, Executive Director, Metropolitan and South Regions and Heavy Vehicle Services and Mike Buba, A/Director Heavy Vehicle Services fielded many questions about access on the network which highlighted the importance of the five criteria identified by the LRTAWA President in his speech. Like the Minister, Mr Snook undertook to re-engage with the LRTAWA on the key issues of concern. The driver shortage has been in the news recently and along with that is a discussion about driver history prior to recruitment. It is important that the driver shortage does not put pressure on companies to take on employees that could be a risk to their business. Driver declarations will protect your business when employing drivers, was the message delivered by Mr Cliff Atkinson from Phoenix Insurance Brokers. Mr Atkinson said that drivers with poor records ‘can be a ticking time bomb for your business if the driver selection and induction is not thoroughly done.’ He urged employers to use a driver’s declaration which if completed honestly identifies if a driver could be an exposure to the business, by highlighting previous claims convictions, infringements and most importantly experience in truck combinations. The conference concluded with the traditional auction which was once again well supported by sponsors and members. The 40th Year Evertrans tandem dolly was purchased by Miotti Transport from Kojonup. Although the COVID-19 restrictions had created uncertainty about whether the function could go ahead it was clear the industry was keen to shake off the gloom and spend some time together. The sponsors came on board at short notice and worked with a modified format. As always, the LRTAWA is particularly grateful for the outstanding support it receives from sponsors. The funds raised allow the association to continue to advocate on behalf of the industry. The presence of the Minister for Transport was also very welcome. Ms Saffioti, a passionate Fremantle Dockers supporter, was pleasantly surprised when David Fyfe presented her with a Dockers jumper signed by his son Fremantle Captain Nat Fyfe. She described the presentation as the ‘highlight of her week’.

Muscle Mite has a makeover Repair undertook much of the initial refurbishment. The Sunday Times Big Wheels came on board to help promote the road safety message. Like us all, time takes its toll and more recently Muscle Mite needed significant work to remain in peak condition. City Panel Beaters undertook the stunning 2020 facelift with other services generously donated by KCraft Bullbars, Westoz Custom Trucks, All Mine Signs and Swan Towing who always come to the party when industry puts out a call. The LRTAWA would like to thank every individual and business that has had a part in preservation and promotion of its muchloved mascot.

Makeover 2020

ong term readers of this magazine will remember the LRTAWA road safety mascot ‘Muscle Mite’. Muscle Mite was saved from the perils of the elements when it was found in a shed in 1997. Forward thinking Lew Couper, Brian Bracknell and George Freestone agreed the Leyland Mini Moke was the ideal vehicle to spearhead the organisation’s road safety campaign and purchased it on behalf of the then Livestock Transport Association (LTA). A refurbishment took place and a new licence obtained which resulted in Muscle Mite being the smallest prime mover registered in Australia. As part of its contribution to road safety the little vehicle has attended many functions including the Convoy for Kids, Christmas street night in Mukinbudin, Merredin Truckers Convoy, the Royal Show, fun Day at Pinjarra Primary and the rally in support of live export to name a few. It has been housed at Whiteman Park and the Dardanup Heritage Park. The LTA road safety campaign was a finalist in the State Government Road Safety Awards in 1997 due in part to the role Muscle Mite played in bringing attention to important safety messages. There is no doubt that wherever he goes Muscle Mite is a beacon for children and those who love trucks. Muscle Mite helped the Association build strong relationships with Roadwise,

Muscle Mite makeover 2013

the Road Safety Commission and regional schools. Over the years Muscle Mite has had many supporters who have provided time and services free of charge. Western United Insurance Brokers provide insurance. Parins Truck and Machinery

Early days

Muscle Mite will continue to be the LRTAWA road safety mascot. If you have any recollections about Muscle Mite’s history please email jan@lrtawa.org.au as the association is keen to record as much information as possible before the sun sets on too many memories..

Makeover 2020

WATM • November 2020

News

Five hundred and thirty

hat’s how many lives have been lost on Western Australia’s regional roads between 2015-2019. Fifty-eight more families have lost a loved one so far in 2020. It’s a sobering and grim reality, and something the State Government is hoping to help combat with the allocation of $100 million for regional road safety improvements across the State. In June this year, the McGowan Government announced that it had secured Commonwealth funding to upgrade 1,400 kilometres of regional roads with shoulder sealing and audible edge lines. These low-cost treatments have been shown to greatly reduce the number of run off road crashes, which can result in severe trauma. Modelling undertaken using roads where the same safety treatments have been introduced shows this strategy could reduce road trauma in regional WA by as much as 60 per cent. Thirty projects have been funded in this first year of the program and, with work already underway across the State, Main Roads is encouraging road users to slow down, be patient and take note of traffic management on the road. Main Roads spokesperson Dean Roberts said that while the upgrades may cause delays to your journey over the summer, every construction sign is a sign of great things to come. “We’re actively work to help improve the State road network and reduce the risk of killed and seriously injured crashes on

WATM • November 2020

our roads” Mr Roberts said. “We know there is a lot going on at the moment and that roadworks and detours can be frustrating but, we’re focused on the end result and ultimate goal of reducing the number of lives lost. It’s that simple”. Heavy Haulage Operators will come across improvements on most of the State’s major freight routes with work planned for: • 255km of Great Northern Highway through the Mid-West, Pilbara and Kimberley • 240km of Eyre Highway through Goldfields Esperance • 165km of Albany Highway through

Michael Buba, Director of Heavy Vehicle Services at Main Roads said that these low cost treatments would significantly improve safety for the heavy vehicle industry. “These important upgrades will make travelling along these major freight corridors safer and more efficient for our heavy vehicle operators,” Mr Buba said. In addition to this $100 million, the Government has turned its focus to building WA’s economy by investing $2.5 billion towards roads across the state. In the long-term, these road infrastructure projects will better connect Perth and the

Michael Buba, Director of Heavy Vehicle Services at Main Roads said that these low cost treatments would significantly improve safety for the heavy vehicle industry the Perth Metro, Wheatbelt and Great Southern • 141km of Brookton Highway through the Perth Metro, Wheatbelt and South West • 124km of South Western Highway through the South West and Great Southern • 115km of Great Eastern Highway through Wheatbelt and Goldfields Esperance • 75km of Burkett Road in the Mid West • 58km of Sues Road in the South West • 50km of Chester Pass Road through Great Southern Improvements will also be undertaken on roads including York Merredin Road, Goomalling Merredin Road, Northam Toodyay Road, Northam Cranbrook Road, Brand Highway and Indian Ocean Drive.

regions, reduce congestion and travel times, and give the WA public choice in how they want to travel. Some of the projects fast-tracked under the Building for Tomorrow Recovery Plan include construction of the Albany Ring Road, duplication of the Bussell Highway and construction of Outback Way, which will create Australia’s third trans-continental highway from Laverton to Queensland, via the Northern Territory. A full list of all the Regional Road Safety improvements to be undertaken over the next 12 months can be found at mainroads. wa.gov.au. Further information on Building for Tomorrow is available at buildingfortomorrow.wa.gov.au.

Over to you QUESTIONS TO THE WA STATE GOVERNMENT Thank you to our WA State Government for answering WA Transport Magazine reader’s questions. If you have a question that is related to the transport industry please email it to the publisher at: karen@angrychicken.com.au

QUESTION Why was a beautiful big parking bay built north of Northampton with no toilet facilities? To make it worse, a fence has been put alongside it so you can’t walk in to the little bit of bush if you need to. Response from Main Road’s Spokesperson To the extent possible, the location and facility level of Main Roads rest areas should complement or promote, rather than conflict or compete with, either commercial or civic sites that are accessible from the network. Funding for this truck parking bay facility was provided through the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program. The scope of the works did not include for the installation of toilet facilities given the area’s proximity to Northampton (<20km) where facilities are available.

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The fence was installed to deter travellers from driving off the back of bays and camping overnight, which has been a problem in the past. QUESTION When are Main Roads going to get a grader on Great Eastern Highway between Merredin and Coolgardie? Response from Main Road’s Spokesperson The Great Eastern Highway is a 590km long road that links Perth with the City of Kalgoorlie. The road is managed by Main Roads Wheatbelt and Goldfields Esperance Regions. Since 2018, Main Roads Goldfields Esperance Region has repaired 90 kilometres of road shoulders between Southern Cross and Coolgardie. It is proposed that 40 kilometres of road

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shoulders from Ghooli to the Emu Fence boundary will be sealed in 2020, along with another 10 kilometres of unsealed shoulders immediately east of Southern Cross repaired. Main Roads is also seeking the support of the Commonwealth Government to upgrade remaining sections of Great Eastern Highway from Walgoolan, 75 kilometres west of Southern Cross, to Coolgardie. In the Wheatbelt, significant works (totalling 67 km) have been undertaken on the section between Merredin and Southern Cross. These works included bridge replacement, widening, realignments and road upgrades. Additional works are scheduled for a 63 km section during 2020/21 and will include bridge replacement, widening realignments and upgrades.

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Over to you A FAIR GO FOR OWNER DRIVERS by Ray Pratt

HUGE SHORTAGE OF TRUCK DRIVERS

ustralia has a huge shortage of truck drivers and with Western Australia experiencing a mining boom and with the approach of the grain season the lack of truck drivers here is reaching crisis point. The talk is that we should be making it easier for people to become truck drivers to alleviate this shortfall. Two ideas being talked about have been the suggestion that we lower the age of new truck drivers trying to enter the industry and the other alternative is to bring in the army to get some bums in seats to manage this shortage of drivers. It all sounds good but do we really want to have inexperienced drivers on the road. It takes a lot of skill and training to become a competent truck driver. For many years the warning signs have predicted that we are never going to have enough truck drivers for the future. Unless there is a major recruitment and training of prospective drivers the situation is not going to change. The industry is blaming the government for not stepping up and putting in place a means of recruiting, training, and educating new drivers to the industry.

WATM â&#x20AC;˘ November 2020

The government is blaming the transport industry and major transport companies for their lack of interest in training schemes that will ensure we have a good supply of new drivers. This blame game can go on forever but the fact is there needs to be a joint effort by both parties to come together and provide the answers so that we can alleviate this crisis problem. We can bury our heads in the sand and carry on but the problem will not go away. Transport companies have hardly ever embraced it upon themselves to recruit and train new drivers to ensure they always have an adequate supply of drivers. Transport companies have complained for years that profit margins are too tight

Transport companies have complained for years that profit margins are too tight for them to spend money on training

for them to spend money on training. We have plenty of truck driving schools and they are always busy training prospective drivers to get their heavy vehicle driver's license but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all they do. They really only train you to get your driver's license. They do not train you on how to be a competent truck driver. We need to further train these people with skills they need to ensure they become competent truck drivers and this needs to happen before they can take to the road as trained drivers. Whatever the answer to get bums in seats we must not compromise on safety. The introduction of 457 visas many years ago allowed a lot of untrained drivers into the country and it was obvious that they were not trained to our standard. A spate of accidents and with the media-loving a good story about trucks it was not a good look. Truck drivers have battled an image problem for many years so the last thing we need is unnecessary publicity about bad truck drivers. There needs to a wellplanned effort to get new truck drivers into seats of trucks. We certainly do not need band-aid measures. ~ Keep it Safe, Ray Pratt.

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www.khitch.com.au WATM â&#x20AC;¢ November 2020

News

Budget delivers trucking investment and safety boosts

Proposed DongaraGeraldton-Northampton route

preferred route has been identified for the future freight corridor between Dongara, Geraldton, and Northampton. The proposed corridor follows an inland route to the south of Geraldton up towards Northampton following close to North West Coastal Highway. From Dongara to Geraldton, a new inland corridor is proposed to start near the Brand Highway and Midlands Road intersection to link up with the current Arthur Road alignment to the south of Geraldton. The northern link and southern options would be linked by proposed new road infrastructure within the already planned Oakajee Narngulu Infrastructure Corridor. From Geraldton to Northampton, a new road is proposed within a wider corridor near the existing North West Coastal Highway. The preferred route was defined by a Main Roads alignment selection study which was undertaken to identify a road corridor that could provide a long-term solution for freight, safely accommodate heavy vehicle combinations, and remove heavy vehicles from town sites throughout the Mid-West. This study originally identified three possible routes between Dongara and Geraldton, and a further three between Geraldton and Northampton. Following extensive community feedback and investigations, the preferred single corridor between Dongara, Geraldton, and Northampton has been proposed. Main Roads will now continue discussions with landowners and other key stakeholders, including local governments and the Mid West Development Commission, before seeking endorsement from the Western Australian Planning Commission. WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, “This is a project that has been talked about in the Mid-West region for many years. I want to stress this is only the start of the process for this project and there is currently no funding allocated towards construction.” To find out more about the planning study, and provide feedback, visit: www.mysaytransport.wa.gov.au/dongara-geraldton-northampton. 12

WATM • November 2020

he introduction of temporary full expensing will drive trucking business investment and encourage the purchase of new, safer trucks and trailers, Chair of the ATO David Smith said. Businesses with a turnover of up to $5 billion will be able to write off the full value of any new eligible asset they purchase for their business. For small and medium businesses, this will also include second-hand assets. “This is a game-changer that will unlock investment in upgraded truck fleets. It will support jobs and put newer, safer, and greener trucks on the road. “The importance of its application to trucking was highlighted by the Treasurer, who said in his budget speech, “A trucking company will be able to upgrade its fleet.” “The new support will extend support to 30 June 2022. “The ATA also welcomes new support for businesses with a turnover up to $5 billion to temporarily offset tax losses against previous profits and the new JobMaker Hiring Credit to support creating jobs for young Australians,” he said. The budget announcement sets out the Government’s $110 billion infrastructure pipeline, including $14 billion in new and accelerated infrastructure. “2020 has been a reminder of how critical roads and supply chains are in keeping communities supplied,” Mr Smith said.

The introduction of temporary full expensing will drive trucking business investment and encourage the purchase of new, safer trucks and trailers “Building better and safer roads will boost the Australian economy and provide better access for moving goods to consumers and global markets,” he said. The Government will also invest an additional $2 billion into targeted road safety works and $5.5 million to establish a National Road Safety Data Hub. $1.2 billion has been announced to support businesses to employ 100,000 new apprentices or trainees under a new apprenticeship support program. Under the program, businesses can apply for a 50 per cent wage subsidy to take on new apprentices regardless of location, industry, or business size. “This is a strong investment in skills and will support the training of new apprentices and trainees, including diesel mechanics and drivers and logistics workers undertaking traineeships,” Mr Smith said. “These roles are critical to trucking and part of the diverse and professional career options in our industry,” he said.

Over to you BIRDS EYE VIEW by Carol Messenger

Parking Bays – Safety in numbers W

e all know the saying life wasn’t meant to be easy but surely it wasn’t meant to be that hard either. Life as a truck driver ‘is’ hard. You work long and often lonely hours, you are away from your friends and family, you miss out on all those special events - friends weddings, babies - your own child's first steps or first days at school. I know that when we first started our transport business, we only spent one night in three years in our own home - the rest of the time we were gobbling up the miles along the highways and byways in this beautiful country. But for me - and so many others - this is the life that we choose because we love it. The opportunity to see the country and to have time to think and to spend some time alone - just me and my truck works for me. But things are changing, the job is getting so much more complicated and dangerous too. You just about need a degree in business these days to operate a truck. There is so many - way too many - rules, regulations, permits, conditions, passes, and inductions. You just about need a filing cabinet in the truck to keep your paperwork in and a lawyer as a codriver to keep you up to date with all the changes that keep occurring. You leave Sydney and by the time you get to Perth the rules have changed and you are supposed to be abreast and up to date with all the new changes- and if you’re not, then be prepared for some heavy fines.

Despite all of this, driving in WA was still a reasonably safe job. The camaraderie on the road was good, drivers looked out for each other and it was great to catch up with some old mates for dinner if you happened to cross paths at a roadhouse or parking bay. But these days, not even parking bays are safe. I was horrified to read of the WA truck driver asleep in his truck alone in a parking bay at Mt Lambie NSW when a group of thugs pulled up, smashed and ransacked his truck, beat him up, and shot him. What the hell is going on? Personally, even if I am tired, I will never pull up in an empty parking bay. My number plates WOMAN01 advertise the fact that I am female and yes, to be honest, that could put me at risk - and so I trundle on to the next parking bay. I like to park around another truck - safety in numbers I guess. Years ago when I didn't have a sleeper, I would just roll the swag out on the back of the load or the ground but now it is definitely lock the doors before closing my eyes. But many drivers do ‘not’ have the luxury of choosing their parking bay. When your fatigue management hours are up

that's it. You may have been caught behind a slow-moving wide load, or blown a tyre or whatever but you are behind time so have to pull up where you can or run the risk of a heavy fine. I know that obviously ‘someone’ has to be the first in the empty parking bay but it’s not going to be me. And then there are the parking bays that we all avoid. Ones that just don't feel right, ones that there are bad vibes around - but try explaining that to a Traffic Inspector – “Well you see officer it was that parking bay - we all know that it’s haunted so I had to keep going to the next one”. You can imagine how that would go down. And yet - I think that is a legitimate excuse - if you don't feel safe, you should be allowed to move on. But sadly the authorities don't see it that way. They would rather that you get no rest, or be forced to pull up on the shoulder and be kept awake all night than allow you to ‘occasionally’ run 30 minutes over your fatigue management regulations. A good operator doesn’t deliberately try and break the law. They know what is safe and how their body is feeling. If you try and push it, you are putting your own life on the line as well as others. Sometimes there needs to be a little bit of common sense applied - but sadly common sense isn't so common these days. .

WATM • November 2020

Profile: Agspread Haulage C0 - 25th Anniversary

WATM â&#x20AC;¢ November 2020

With the first 25 years now behind Agspread, it’s time to focus on the next quarter century

When John Branchi began his agricultural spreading business — Agspread — 25 years ago, little did he know how large and diverse his business would become. By Russell McKinnon

WATM • November 2020

Profile: Agspread Haulage C0 - 25th Anniversary

Agspread Haulage Co support Australian manufacturing and have recently taken delivery from Vawdrey Australia of a 36.5 metre Flat Deck B-Triple combination, two x 14 Pallet A Trailers, and one x 22 Pallet B Trailer running on Hendrickson Intraxx and Alcoa Aluminium Rims as well as a specialised set of DG Rated trailers

WATM â&#x20AC;˘ November 2020

ith wife Vicki by his side and two young sons — Travis and Aron — he grew his Southwest-based business to the stage where his sons would take over and eventually steer a different path — hauling bulk materials throughout Western Australia and interstate, for the mining, civil and agricultural sectors. The South-west is a busy pocket of the State with many large operators, but Agspread has gained a justifiable reputation as an industry leader, delivering on time and with a cost-effective solution. By offering a professional service — based on strong performance and safety/ compliance — Agspread has been able to grow and expand the business, offering a wide range of specialised logistics services for its large clientele. The name Agspread encompassed the business of years gone by, supplying agricultural spreading solutions to the South-west and Wheatbelt. The move into bulk haulage supported the business model and growth of its operations, eventually

Our name and the colours of our brand are something we are deeply proud of

As Australia’s largest independent family-owned trailer manufacturer with 47 years in operation in Dandenong Melbourne, Vawdrey Australia is Proud to be partnering with Agspread Holdings Pty Ltd supply chain & 25 years in business. A Special Congratulations to Travis & Aron Branchi & staff with your 25 years in business servicing Western Australia & other states. Vawdrey Australia has recently delivered to Agspread Holdings Pty Ltd a 36.5 metre Flat Deck B-Triple combination, Two (2) x 14 Pallet A Trailers & One (1) x 22 Pallet B Trailer running on Hendrickson Intraxx & Alcoa Aluminium Rims, a specialised set of DG Rated trailers & with Vawdrey service centres based in every state, Agspread Holdings Pty Ltd can be assured of full back up & support Australia-wide. WA SALES MANAGER – Dean Price

M: 0448 901 126 E: dean.price@vawdrey.com.au

Paul Vawdrey

WATM • November 2020

E: paul.vawdrey@vawdrey.com.au

Profile: Agspread Haulage C0 - 25th Anniversary moving away from contract spreading, but with the transport of such a diverse range of products, the name can sometimes confuse customers. “Our name and the colours of our brand are something we are deeply proud of. Our clients know what Agspread stands for and the quality of service that it entails, in whatever industry we work in,” Travis says. Travis and Aron are now the directors of the company with Travis spearheading the push for bulk haulage in 2005. Parents John and Vicki happily handed over the reins to the company about 10 years ago. With more than 45 years of experience in the transport industry between them, the company is in good hands, and continues to go from strength to strength. “We started as kids in the business. I began in 1995 driving agricultural spreaders and Aron entered the company in 2000, running the agricultural side of the business and today he looks after the dayto-day operations of the entire business,” Travis says. While Travis drives the business development and maintaining strong relationships with clients, Aron also assists

with business development and tends to the fleet’s performance among his many tasks. The change in the business model in 2005 allowed the company to supply bulk haulage to the agricultural and mining industries, including specialised dangerous goods throughout Australia. The first prime mover came in 2005 and the inventory now contains 30 prime movers and 160 trailers, including specialised tankers. “We still have clientele from 25 years ago, which we provide a seasonal service for, and are extremely grateful for their continued support. Even if our services have expanded, our agricultural roots still play a big part of our identity,” Travis says. Helping celebrate the quarter-century of business operations will be the arrival of the 25th Volvo truck. Four are coming in the latter part of the year to replace the last of the different-branded trucks. With the industry heading toward Volvo as a key component, Agspread said that shifting its entire fleet to Volvo was a “no-brainer”. “Their reputation in the industry

is second to none. Not only are they safe, innovative and reliable, the service provided is outstanding,” Aron says. “We look forward to continue working with Volvo/Truck Centre in the future as our preferred prime-mover supplier.” Another key component of any successful transport company is their trailer fleet and Agspread put their money where their mouth is when it comes to supporting Australian manufacturers. Agspread has recently purchased another brand new set of flat top trailers from Vawdrey Trailers as they increase their fleet due to new contracts across WA. “We are pleased to be using Vawdrey again as our supplier and manufacturer of our Flat Bed Trailers. Their manufacturing quality and price has seen us purchase 18 trailers over the years.” The Covid-19 crisis has had limited impact on the mining sector and Agspread has found the period to be one of the busiest on record. Business manager Callum Yates says: “With the industries we service, we have been fortunate that the sector has continued at a rapid pace during the .../ continued on p21

WATM • November 2020

Congratulations!

From all of us at Truck Centre WA, we would like to congratulate Agspread Haulage Co's 25 Year milestone.

Truck Centre WA Pty Ltd

The Home of1800 Volvo199Trucks Western Australia| |Find Proudly FREECALL 517 |inwww.tcwa.com.au us onAustralian Face ookMade and Twitter

WATM â&#x20AC;¢ November 2020

Profile: Agspread Haulage C0 - 25th Anniversary

MOBILE HOSE SERVICE - 24 hrs - 7 days HOSEPRO SOUTH WEST are a West Australian family owned business with fully equipped mine site spec MOBILE TRUCKS offering 24/7 coverage.

Congratulations to Agspread Haulage Co on your 25th Anniversary and we are proud to be a supplier for over ten years of quality hoses and fittings which have kept your wheels turning. Leigh Haberl Mob: 0458 494 444 | www.hoseprosouthwest.com.au 20

WATM â&#x20AC;˘ November 2020

www.hoseprosouthwest.com.au

.../ continued from p18

current pandemic. The last six to eight months have been the busiest period in the company’s history, and it’s enabled us to expand our current clientele and our existing contracts.” Callum has been in the transport industry for more than 15 years and previously was operations manager before undertaking a role as business manager through recent expansion and growth. His forté is business strategy, compliance management and project management. Agspread has expanded its operations to include depots in Kalgoorlie and Kwinana, giving it greater scope as the company provides specialised logistics services throughout the Goldfields, Pilbara and throughout South Australia. The viability, integrity and performance of the company has seen staff retention become a cornerstone of day-to-day activities. Agspread employs 30 drivers/operators in its current fleet, all with a high level of experience. Each driver has relevant licences for the industry and Agspread provides ongoing training and support to improve their operational skills.

Agspread has always operated a fully staffed workshop, heavy-vehicle workshop from its depot in Australind and workshop manager Martin Visser has been in the role for the past 13 years. He leads an experienced team of seven mechanics, who ensure a high level of workmanship and compliance. Included in the staff of 45 are Travis’ wife Nicole (accounts manager) and

The first prime mover came in 2005 and the inventory now contains 30 prime movers and 160 trailers, including specialised tankers

STATEWIDE SERVICE 24 Hours - 7 Days

1800 653 54 4

Tilt Trays up to 11 tonne • •

Breakdowns, Accidents, Emergency towing Machinery and all types of Ag equipment

Heavy Recovery Specialists • •

Trucks of all makes and configurations. Accidents, Breakdowns, Winch jobs, Oversize Load Pulls

Super Tilts & Low Loaders • •

Machinery & Plant up to 33 tonne Transportables, containers, tanks

Congratulations to Agspread Haulage Co on your 25th Anniversary milestone Over

30 years

Approved Emergency Dangerous Goods Responder No: AER001040

Experience

WATM • November 2020

Head Office & Perth Depot: 6 Gallant Court, Midvale • Regional Depots: Bunbury, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Newman, Port Hedland

Profile: Agspread Haulage C0 - 25th Anniversary

Agspread’s capabilities are not just confined to bulk haulage, but also to material cartage, truck and plant hire and the supply of bulk materials

Aron’s wife Theresa (compliance manager). Also, Travis’ motherin-law Debbie Carroll (financial controller) rounds out the family connection at the Australind head office. Debbie has been managing the finances for more than 10 years. Mum Vicki has retired as a director, but still has a keen interest in the business. The increase in administrative staff has seen the need for a new head office. The new space has grown from the three-person office into what is now space for 20 staff, giving the company room for the facilities needed to run and maintain its ever-growing fleet and workforce. Agspread’s capabilities are not just confined to bulk haulage, but also to material cartage, truck and plant hire and the supply of bulk materials. Cartage includes lime, fertiliser, ballast, grain, iron ore,

Locally owned and independent Caltex Oil Distributors in the South West Competitive prices with reliable and efficient service For all your complete range of Caltex Lubricant Products Also agents for Alemlube products

Greg and Janette Federici - 0448 899 016

sand products, coal, mineral sands and dangerous goods. Agspread can operate in semi, double, triple and quad configurations, all with GPS tracking, and dedicated equipment to avoid contamination. The full range of truck-trailers includes end tippers, side tippers, flat beds, drop decks, skels, ISO-tainers, DG tankers, water tankers. Agspread has a band of loyal and dedicated suppliers, some of which have been with the company from the very beginning. Their continuing quality of on-time and cost-effective products and services allows Agspread to provide the quality of service its own customers have become accustomed to. “We try and keep it local wherever possible. We can’t do what we do without our suppliers and service contractors,” says Callum. “We don’t run a 9-5 business, which our suppliers understand. “From Swan Towing keeping our trucks moving at times of need, through to Mason Signs and the brilliant work they do in .../ continued on p24

WATM • November 2020

Bitumen Emulsion

Bitumen Bitumen

Pneumatic PNEUMATIC

SPECIALISING IN TANKER MANUFACTURING FOR OVER 23 YEARS

WATM â&#x20AC;¢ November 2020

Profile: Agspread Haulage C0 - 25th Anniversary design and branding of our equipment, we thank all our suppliers including Hosepro South West, South West Oil, Jamieson and BHR Papalia, and everyone else, for the past 25 years and look forward to continuing these relationships for many years to come.” With the first 25 years now behind Agspread, it’s now time to focus on the next quarter century.

BHR Papalia does more than just tax… We focus on the big picture From the start, we will offer you practical advice and connect you with the right people to achieve a successful outcome. We engage local professionals who understand what goes on at a community level, to ensure our clients receive the right service – personalised and efficient. Our services include: Tax & Compliance • Preparation and lodgement of income tax returns and activity statements • Preparation of financial statements Self Managed Superannuation • Extensive experience in helping clients with innovative strategies for planning, setting up, and managing SMSFs that will give you greater control over your finances, and security for your retirement Bookkeeping & Office Management Service • Invoicing and debtor management • Purchasing and creditor management • Payroll processing • Superannuation processing • Training and support for accounting systems • Accounting system reviews

The BHR Papalia team would like to congratulate Agspread Haulage Co on their outstanding 25 years in business. PH 9791 5877 | E info@papalia.com.au | www.bhrpapalia.com.au

WATM • November 2020

www.agspread.com.au | T: 08 9797 2439

News

A business case is to be prepared for Tier 3 grain lines

ransport Minister Rita Saffioti has released an independent engineering assessment outlining the estimated cost of restoring each section of the Wheatbelt’s Tier 3 rail network. The Tier 3 Grain Lines Engineering Review Report, undertaken by Agonis Group, provides detailed estimates of the cost to restore each line section of the Tier 3 network to a suitable condition for commercial operation, including the potential to upgrade some sections from narrow to standard gauge. The Tier 3 rail lines, built in the early 1900s, were previously used to transport grain. They were privatised in 2000 as part of the freight rail network by the previous Liberal National Government and are now held by Arc Infrastructure. Arc closed the Tier 3 rail lines in 2014 on the grounds that they were not commercially viable. Since the closure of the Tier 3 rail lines, there has been an increase in freight volumes on local roads, compounding challenges in maintaining the roads to an acceptable standard. The Tier 3 lines are in variable condition and any line section would need to be upgraded before being brought back into service. The State Government’s Revitalising Agricultural Region Freight (RARF) Strategy identifies investment opportunities in the freight rail line network and outlines a list of prioritised rail and intermodal projects on the Tier 1 and 2 networks, which remain in use. Since the release of the RARF Strategy, the State has been in discussion with Arc Infrastructure and the CBH Group to establish a shortlist of high priority projects on the Tier 1 and 2 rail networks. Consultation while developing the Strategy showed strong sentiment among grain growers and local communities

towards reinstating the Tier 3 railway lines. Consultation with stakeholders will now also include the viability of potentially investing in the Tier 3 rail network, pending Infrastructure Australia assessment. Subject to further discussions with stakeholders, the first upgrade proposals for the Tier 3 line currently being considered for business case preparation are: • Quairading to York (estimated cost $110.91 million);

• Kulin (via Yilliminning) to Narrogin (estimated cost $164.41 million); and • Kondinin (via Narembeen) to West Merredin (estimated cost $210.67 million narrow gauge or $238.08 million standard gauge). The State Government has already lodged a submission with Infrastructure Australia to have improvements to Western Australia's agricultural supply chain added to its Priority List.

Transformation complete of Reid Highway upgrade

rivers in Perth’s north-east will be getting home sooner and safer with construction now complete on a new four-kilometre westbound dual carriageway on Reid Highway. The dual carriageway between Altone Road and West Swan Road was the final section of the $77.5 million project to be opened to motorists. The much-needed upgrade removes the last single carriageway section, delivering an efficient east-west route across Perth’s north eastern suburbs for local residents, commuters and the freight industry. The project is jointly-funded by the Commonwealth ($56 million) and State ($14 million) Governments, with an additional $7.5 million contribution from the City of Swan towards the Arthur Street Bridge. Federal Minister for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure Alan Tudge said, “We’re pumping billions of dollars into WA as we come out of COVID and you can see the construction activity right across the metropolitan area.” WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said,

“We want to continue to create a more efficient transport system for local residents which is why we are delivering on our commitment to build the Morley-Ellenbrook train line with early works now underway. City of Swan Deputy Mayor David Lucas said the City was pleased to work with the Commonwealth and State Government’s on this important infrastructure project. “The City contributed $7.5 million to the Arthur Street Bridge project which now links the communities of Dayton to Caversham via the new bridge which will also decongest traffic at West Swan Road and Lord Street traffic lights.” Modifications to the intersection of Reid Highway and West Swan Road have improved traffic flow and turning movements, while a new Principal Shared Path for pedestrians and cyclists will provide better access to the Swan Valley and enhance local connectivity. A new bridge over Reid Highway also opens to traffic today, connecting the northern and southern sections of Arthur Street. WATM • November 2020

Over to you WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION by Cam Dumesny, CEO

WHY ROAD TRANSPORT IS LOSING

here is a harsh reality and that is the road transport industry is facing tougher resistance to obtaining productivity, safety, and even necessary infrastructure investment gains. This problem is not just limited to Western Australia - it is a national problem. Fundamentally, the road transport industry needs to re-think how it strategically positions itself and the value it provides.

Examples of How We Are Losing • A pprenticeship Funding: The Federal Government in its pre-budget releases has announced $1.2 Billion for apprenticeships and traineeships, specifically mentioning manufacturing, construction, arts, and mining sectors as beneficiaries. Yet the road transport industry which is facing a chronic skills shortage (particularly in WA) is not mentioned. Why because road transport is not seen as a trade. 26

WATM • November 2020

• Productivity Restricted: Another example is Fremantle Port where the Government has a 20% on rail target. Ok, I will not argue against rail as I believe both road and rail are needed to make Fremantle port productive. But what I will argue is that despite road transport carrying 80% of the freight, it is prevented from introducing road productivity measures as that is seen as undermining rail. That policy principal is spread across multiple routes in WA. • Infrastructure Investment: The Arts lobby very successfully won the requirement that up to one percent of the construction budget for new public works (sic includes roads) over $2 million, to be spent on artwork. Yet, we as an industry can’t get any percentage mandated for rest areas. • Paying For Roads: There are federal agencies actively working on how the road transport industry pays more for roads. Other transport modes and

anti-road transport groups have been very successful in arguing that the road transport industry is basically subsidised and is not paying enough for roads both in terms of damage and another thing called externalities. “Moreover, the cost of road externalities (such as noise, air pollution, congestion, and accidents, etc) is in the order of seven times the cost of rail externalities for interstate nonbulk freight transport.” (source: Australian Parliamentary Library – Cost Recovery in Rail and Road Transport.)

We Need to Learn from the Rail Industry Lobby The rail industry has quite bluntly out thought, out positioned, out marketed and out lobbied the road transport industry right across Australia. Rail is now the darling of Governments, Academics, and even the Community. Public funds are flowing into rail infrastructure investments, cheered on by

highly vocal advocates in the community. Note, rail has a vital role in the movement of freight and is critical to a globally competitive supply chain system in Australia. But so, does the road transport industry. Rather than criticise the rail industry we need to learn from them. They very successfully repositioned themselves from a dying mode to the road saving, congestion-busting low emission alternative to road transport.

Re-Positioning Road Transport Industry To start winning, Road Transport must move the public and government focus away from trucks on the road to how we are for instance creating jobs. To kick it off here are some examples: Road Transport Can Save Manufacturing Jobs: WA is at serious risk of losing several thousand manufacturing jobs to China as the ability of the road transport industry to efficiently transport manufactured

output to inland mines right across WA is being undermined by a lack of protection and investment in the high wide load corridors. WA Produce Growers Can Now Compete Against the East: Due to a trial of a new truck combination on Greenmount Hill, WA farmers and produce growers are now able to compete in the East Coast markets. Saving nearly a day in transport and logistics operations this trial has led to WA farmers and producers now supplying over 250 tonnes per day more of produce and meat to the East. That’s jobs for WA. There are multiple other examples, but you notice that not once did the argument focus just on the trucks. It focused on the value we provide and the jobs we create and in doing that we demonstrated our strategic value.

Why It Matters When Governments see road transport as a real jobs generator or enabler of economic

growth in the broader economy then it is easier to win the arguments for things like rest area investment, industry safety, access improvements, better funding for training, etc. And it’s the Rail Industry that has taught us that lesson. Change the way you position your value and the public investment will flow. PS: for those of you not as old as me, 30 or 40 years ago, rail was being shut down everywhere, as it was seen everywhere as a totally inefficient and a drain on the public purse.

The Work Has Started The work has started, with Western Roads member groups, such as Port, Cold Chain, Metro Freight, OSOM, DG/ Bulk Fuel, Bulk Haulage, etc developing a strategic plan that identifies their transport segment value. Their plans will also include their identified needs for training, infrastructure, safety, productivity, etc. These plans will become the foundation of how we reposition and hence argue the case for our industry.

WESTERN ROADS FEDERATION IS THE UNITED VOICE OF WA TRANSPORT COMPANIES Western Roads Federation has been formed to give a strong unified voice for companies who use WA roads for commercial benefit.

Western Roads Federation is a membership driven organisation. If you believe in the industry and what you do, then make sure your company is a member, and get involved. For a membership application form Email cam.dumesny@westernroads.com.au ◆ Phone 08 9365 7799 or 0481 064 371 180 Hay St, East Perth WA 6004

WATM • November 2020

News

RESOURCES AND ENERGY EXPORTS REMAIN STRONG DESPITE COVID-19

ustralia’s resource and energy export earnings are forecast to remain strong over the next two years after hitting a record of $290 billion in 2019–20, despite the pressures the COVD-19 pandemic placed on the sector. The September Resources and Energy Quarterly forecasts export earnings will be worth $256 billion in 2020–21 and $252 billion the following year, down marginally on June forecasts due to the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on the global economy. The Minister for Resources, Water and Northern Australia Keith Pitt said that although down on last year’s record, the forecast figures are impressive. “The $256 billion in exports for 2020-21 is the third-highest export result on record and $252 billion for 2021-22 is the fourthhighest result,” Minister Pitt said. ”These figures demonstrate the

Australians want to work from home more post-COVID

ore Australians want to work from home an average of two days per week after the COVD-19 pandemic, according to a survey by the University of Sydney Business School. The Transport Opinion Survey, conducted by internationally respected Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies (ITLS), found that across all industries, one in five employees worked from home regularly before the pandemic. Three in four workers believe that post-COVID-19, their employers are more likely to support work from home than

resilience of Australia’s mining sector in the face of unprecedented challenges from the pandemic and its ongoing importance to the country. “The resources sector has underpinned Australia’s economy throughout 2020 and will continue to play a crucial role for the nation as the global economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. “Robust commodity earnings will be more important than ever to the Australian economy as the country emerges from the largest global contraction since the 1930s. “Australia’s reputation as a reliable, low-cost supplier of mineral and energy products remains intact, with virtually no operational COVID-19 shutdowns, unlike some of our competitors.” The Resources and Energy Quarterly shows iron ore export earnings remain high, amid strong demand from China and constrained supply from Brazil.

The value of exports is expected to fall just short of last year’s record of $102 billion to reach $97 billion this year. Australia’s gold exports are forecast to reach a record high of $31 billion in 2020–21, making gold Australia’s thirdlargest commodity export behind iron ore and LNG. “Australia is now on track to become the world’s largest gold producer by 2021,” Minister Pitt said “The outlook for copper also remains strong, with earnings to hit a record of more than $10 billion as the demand for electronic devices and electricity transmission networks grows in developing countries.” Output and demand is expected to grow for new technology metals including lithium, nickel, and zinc, which are all important to supporting renewable energy, electric vehicles, and batteries. The outlook for thermal and metallurgical coal and LNG and oil exports all remain challenging and closely linked to the global COVID-19 recovery while international industrial activity remains subdued. Minister Pitt said the continued overall strong results for Australia’s resources sector was good news for jobs and economic growth, particularly in regional Australia. “Strong prices for gold, iron ore and other minerals are leading to new investment plans, including the re-opening of gold mines long closed and a steady stream of new projects awaiting final investment decisions. This investment will boost incomes and jobs, particularly in regional areas, and contribute to the prosperity of all Australians.”

WATM • November 2020

they did before the pandemic. During the pandemic, the number of work from home days doubled for managers and almost tripled for employees in sales and clerical/ administration work. “The evidence reinforces the fact that as we move through and beyond the COVID-19 period, we can expect commuting activity to decline by an average of 25 to 30 percent as both employers and employees see value in a work from home plan,” said Professor David Hensher, Founding Director of ITLS. The report is available at //sydney.edu.au/ business/itls/tops

Working from home (WFH) bfore and during the height of COVID-19 by state segmanted by metropolitan and regional areas Metropolitan area

Regional area

Other States/ Terr.

QLD

Vic

NSW & ACT 0%

20%

40%

60%

20%

40%

%age WFH before & during the height of the pandemic before C-19

extra during C-19

60%

News

$27 million WA Black Spot Program T

he WA State Government has allocated almost $27 million through the 2020-21 Black Spot Program to upgrade some of the state's worst roads. Safety upgrades and improvements will be carried out at 92 locations with 44 in the Perth metropolitan area and 48 in regional WA. Works will improve safety, help reduce congestion, and improve efficiency whilst also supporting local jobs. More than $21 million has been allocated by the State Government, with an additional $5 million to be provided by local governments. WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, "We've worked with local government to deliver more than $26 million for this year's Black Spot Program. This funding will upgrade 92 locations across the State, helping to make our roads safer and more efficient while also supporting local jobs. Upgrades in the metropolitan area include: • $200,000 for the installation of the firstever Western Australian signalised safety platform at the intersection of Mill Point Road and Mends Street in South Perth; • $200,000 to upgrade the corner of Ocean Reef Road and Eddystone Avenue

in Heathridge/Beldon; • $800,000 to undertake safety improvements at the intersection of Thomas Road and Kargotich Road in Oakford; and • $2,100,000 to upgrade pedestrian facilities and intersection lighting, and modify the right-hand turn lane into Albany Highway from Welshpool Road in St James. In regional WA, projects include: • $1.9 million for Stage 1 to upgrade the intersection of Derby Highway and Waycott Street in Derby; • $2 million to widen Ackland Drive and construct a left-hand turn from Brand Highway into Barrett Drive in Wandina; • $355,700 to complete realignment of Wandering-Narrogin Road/Springhill Road and Nebrikinning Road in Cuballing; • $252,000 towards making Port Drive safer at St Mary's College in Broome; and • $278,000 towards correcting superelevation and widen shoulders on Pump Hill Road in the Shire of Manjimup.

Roads in the southern Wheatbelt will receive $643,000 of works and upgrades with Narrogin receiving $355,781 for the curved section of Wandering-Narrogin Road being realigned to improve road geometry. The road’s intersection with Springhill Road and Nebrikinning Road will have new signs installed and lines marked. In the Shire of Kulin, the intersection of Rabbit-Proof Fence Road and Muller Road will be reconstructed and widened, with the hill on Muller Road cut down to improve sight distance. The embankment on RabbitProof Fence Road will be built up, with new signage installed. The roadworks in the Shire of Kulin will cost $195,333. The Shire of Bruce Rock will receive $91,878 in road upgrades on Bruce RockNarembeen Road/Cumminin Road and Wogarl West Road/Totadgin Road, both of which will result in the Y-intersection being made into a T-Intersection. Nominations for the 2021-22 State Black Spot Program for both metropolitan and regional roads are currently being assessed. For more information and a full list of the regional ‘local’ roads that will receive attention, visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au

$1.1 billion infrastructure spend for WA from Commonwealth

he WA State Government has welcomed the $1.1 billion transport infrastructure spend announced by the Commonwealth Government. The projects, negotiated by the State Government, will help create thousands of local jobs and improve safety across the State. This will extend the $6.5 billion pipeline of road and rail works currently underway across Western Australia, creating and supporting jobs and providing opportunities for local businesses. The State Government is already spending $260 million a month on infrastructure, with $100 million of this funding in regional WA. Key projects funded in the announcement include $16 million for Cape Leveque access roads in the Kimberley and $16 million for works on the Goldfields Highway (Wiluna to Meekatharra), and further funding for the Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network, and

other regional road safety projects. Funding for other major road projects, such as the Roe Highway interchange project, will allow the project scope to expand and to be progressed as soon as possible. The WA State Government has

The State Government is already spending $260 million a month on infrastructure, with $100 million of this funding in regional WA also worked to fast track approvals and cut red tape for an additional 11 major transport infrastructure projects, worth $2.37 billion, and estimated to create 13,000 local jobs. WA Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said,

“We’ve worked collaboratively with the Commonwealth Government to identify projects that will create and support local jobs while also improving safety and capacity across our road and rail networks. We already have a pipeline of $6.5 billion of major road and rail works underway across Western Australia over the next two years - this will extend the pipeline of work and will continue to help the State economy through and past COVID-19. “This year alone we have seven METRONET projects under construction with several more moving into the procurement phase, creating thousands of local jobs, as well as major road projects underway such as the $175 million Albany Ring Road. “We’re building the transport infrastructure needed for tomorrow - no matter where you visit in WA you will see hard hats on the ground and infrastructure works underway.”

WATM • November 2020

Over to you

Buckshee turns to thrill By Kevin Lockyer

he history of this little truck started in Cuballing. It was bought new by the Parson family to be used for farming duties. In the early '60s, it was sold to the Hockridge family to use as a fire truck. In the late '70s, Hockridges relocated to Hyden and the Austin came with them to be used as a water truck until it's demise in the early '80s. Fast forward to 2005, and I was looking for one of these trucks to restore as they played a significant part in my family's history. In 1948, my grandparents left East Perth and travelled to their war service farm south of Corrigin in one of these trucks. On the back, they had all their worldly possessions including five of their children. When I finished schooling in the mid-'70s, I got a job driving a K2 for a spraying contractor. I got the job because no one else would drive it. It had a ‘crash box’, no foot brake only a handbrake, a starter motor that worked occasionally and grossly overloaded. Despite all the problems, I loved that little truck and took pride in managing

to keep it going. Anyway back to this particular K2 at Hockridge's. I checked it all over and it seemed to be complete so time to do a deal with the owner. The result was I could have it for buckshee (free) as long as he could have a drive when it was restored. So we pumped the tyres up and stiff-barred it to the back of a Landcruiser and off we went. By the time we got it home, over the 30 km' s it had shaken itself to bits, so back we go picking up all the bits of wood from the tray. The restoration took approximately three years with a complete strip down to a rolling chassis. The timber tray was totally stuffed but the steelwork remained allowing us to get the measurement's for new timber. Mum, Dad and I built the new wooden tray to original specs in four days over an Easter weekend. The little Austin has performed well over the years since and still gives me a thrill when I bring it out of the shed on special occasions for a run.

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History

The History of the West Australian Road Transport Industry

By Russell McKinnon St Georges Terrace, 1968

1968 U

rged on by the Transport Advisory Council, the Government agrees to lift all operational controls on general road transport in the north of the State, beyond railheads at Geraldton and Meekatharra. Secretary W R Pellew reported to the March 27 Executive Council meeting on a recent visit to Kulin where he met with livestock carriers and where rates were adopted for livestock cartage. It was reported to the April 18 Executive Council meeting that due to the action taken by the Transport Advisory Council, annual licences were now available for road transport operations north of the railheads at Meekatharra and Geraldton. Also reported to the same meeting was that Eneabba district farmers were being compelled to purchase trucks to transport their requirements and produce, mainly due to the fact that the railroad route involved a 400km haul whereas direct road transport could be achieved within 240km. In addition, the existing regulations precluded the usage of professional carriers. The Government commissioned a survey of transport costs north of the 26th Parallel, whose findings confirmed that high freight rates for general cargoes could only be reduced by operating much bigger road vehicles than those already in use. As a result, the Director General of Transport, John Knox, established a study group to investigate, among other alternatives, the possibility of using triplebottom vehicles, initially on the 900km stretch of the Great Northern

WATM • November 2020

Highway, which ran along the eastern fringe of the Pilbara between Meekatharra and Port Hedland. Triple bottom was the official description of a road train consisting of two trailers, hauled either by a massive truck or by a prime mover with a semi-trailer of equal size. Bill Roots was appointed from WARTA with his 32 years’ varied and comprehensive experience. The group toured the North-West and Northern Territory, sometimes by truck, and presented what was known as the Salter report, after retired State Police Commissioner R C Salter, who headed the group. By the time the group was established, freight cargoes into remote areas of the State were already expanding considerably. They included 150,000 tonnes of general cargo annually for areas north of Carnarvon, as well as 500,000 tonnes of livestock, ore and minerals sent by road to the North-West ports or railheads. Goldfields ore and concentrates roaded to the Kalgoorlie railhead totalled 650,000 tonnes annually. The combined annual total of road cargoes had reached more than four million tonnes and is expected to increase by more than 10 percent per year. Transport and Shipping Division Chairman W Roots put his seat up for grabs when he announced at the May 2 Meeting that he had changed employers from Mayne Nickless Ltd to Sweeny United Transport. He was confirmed in the position. The May 2 Meeting of the Transport and Shipping Division heard that there was a severe shortage of parts for Ford, International and Bedford vehicles. The Transport and Shipping Division Annual General Meeting of June 27 took the unusual step of electing two chairmen, with C Love and W Roots alternating in the Chair. The ARTF reported that a technical committee appointed by the Australian Rubber Manufacturers’ Association has recommended the replacement of truck tyres if the tread pattern does not have a depth of 1.58mm throughout at least 75 percent of the tread width around the tyre circumference. At the Annual General Meeting of August 8, President F A Manford highlighted the happenings of the past year: • Government controls and the Transport Advisory Council; • Publications issued by the Association to its members; • Branch activities; • Australian Road Transport Federation activities; • The importance of school bus services throughout the State; • Association membership drive. It was reported to the Annual General Meeting that the Police Traffic Department was taking action against truck owners where palletised cargo was being loaded on trucks resulting in widths, which exceeded the allowable limit of 8ft 2 ½ inches, in the old measurement.

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WA TRANSPORT MAGAZINE - NOVEMBER 2020 edition

Articles inside

$27 million WA Black Spot Program

WA Transport History

Resources and energy exports remain strong

Western Roads Federation - Why road transport is losing

Agspread Haulage Co – 25th Anniversary

Proposed Dongara-Geraldton-Northampton route

Bird’s Eye View

Questions to the WA State Government

Reid Highway Upgrade complete

Muscle Mite has a makeover

Fair Go for Owner Drivers

530 – That is how many lives have been lost on WA regional roads