Transport operators can soon give feedback to key agencies about how safety and productivity can be improved for truck drivers.
Heavy vehicle owners and drivers, both local and interstate, are invited to the Nhill Trailer Exchange, featuring multiple road safety displays and presentations next month.
Horsham Rural City Council (HRCC) is partnering with a group of organisations to deliver the event on Tuesday, November 26, and Wednesday, November 27, 2024.
Initially scheduled for February, the event was postponed due to the devastating fires in the Grampians and across the region, which required the resources of Victoria Police and other agencies.
The Western Highway was also temporarily closed due to these fires.
The road safety event will address critical themes such as vehicle safety, roadworthiness, overloading, towing, fatigue, speed, and other road safety issues. Representatives from Victoria Police and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator will be present, focusing on providing information and education rather than enforcement.
"The aim is to give the heavy vehicle industry a chance to find out the latest tips to improve road safety. The agencies there will also be keen to hear concerns from transport operators themselves," HRCC Infrastructure Director John Martin said.
"The Western Highway is one of the nation's key interstate freight routes, and unfortunately, it is over-represented in fatalities and serious injuries. We are keen to do everything we can to help reduce the occurrence of these incidents."
Mr Martin also emphasised the event's relevance to local transport operators, including farmers and livestock transporters. "We thank the Department of Transport and Planning, which has funded this event through its Community Road Safety Grants," he said.
Other key participants in the event include the Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Victoria, Worksafe, and several local municipalities, including the host Hindmarsh Shire Council.
The event will run from 4pm to 11pm on both days, allowing drivers and operators to attend based on their availability. This is a valuable opportunity for the heavy vehicle community to engage with industry experts and provide feedback on how to enhance road safety measures.
