POPULAR WORDS

August 27, 2010

The nation’s peak trucking lobby is heading to the Northern Territory in a bid to learn the issues facing outback operators.

The board of the Australian Trucking Association is attending the 15th Australian Road Transport Hall of Fame being held in Alice Springs.

ATA Chairman David Simon says those in Outback Australia are different to companies operating in Melbourne and Sydney and that it is important the ATA gains an understanding of the issues they face.

“Outback Australia relies on the trucking industry to deliver the goods it needs every day, and the unique experiences of operators and drivers in the outback are a world away from how the industry operates in the eastern states,” Simon says.

The ATA will also hold a board of management meeting during the event, which Simon describes as “an iconic part of the Australian trucking industry”.

“It’s the biggest road transport museum in the Southern Hemisphere; the industry can be justifiably proud of it,” he says.

ATA board member Doug McMillan says the event is chance to catch up with friends and share experiences in the industry.

The ATA’s exhibition prime mover and trailer the Road Ahead, which cost $1.6 million, will also be appearing at the event.

Equipped with educational games and activities, the vehicle travels the country to teach students about the importance of the trucks, careers in the industry and road safety.

The ATA board of management includes trucking company representatives and members of groups such as the Australian Livestock Transporters Association and Transport Forum WA.