Trans-Help fears for health of trucking industry, claiming the recent floods will have widespread consequences
January 18, 2011
Charity foundation Trans-Help has raised concerns over the health of the trucking industry in the wake of devastating floods in Queensland.
Trans-Help founder Di Carroll says the floods, which left much of the state a disaster zone, have led to a decline in income and work for trucking operators.
Carroll fears for operators reliant on Queensland primary producers, which are expected to take years to rebuild.
“It is evident many will go bankrupt and there will be a psychological impact throughout the industry, on the road as well as within the family unit,” Carroll says.
“We are hoping the government will extend the crisis payment and support to transport families affected by this disaster”.
Carroll has also called on fuel and finance companies to be lenient with transport companies unable to pay bills due to the floods.
Trans-Help runs counselling services along with its health van, which provides free check-ups for drivers.
Carroll says there have been instances where drivers have been stranded and forced to park on the roadside as floodwaters cut off freight routes.
She says some drivers have been stood down because of a lack of work, while others are forced to take lengthy detours to deliver freight.