Archive, Industry News

Trucking warned to be fire alert in Qld and NSW

Dangers on routes in threatened areas likely to change quickly

 

With deadly bushfires in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales likely to continue causing havoc for many days yet, related trucking issues are being given prominence.

Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads’ (TMR) Heavy Vehicle Unit has issued an update urging trucking companies and their drivers to stay as informed of bushfire dangers  as often as possible.

With dangers emerging with little warning and fires already causing significant road impacts, the unit advises the industry to watch carefully developments in affected Queensland areas on that state‘s Rural Fire Service website here and in New South Wales, that state’s  Rural Fire Service’s Fires Near Me webpage here.

Traffic alerts can be found for Queensland can be found at TMR’s QLD Traffic page here and in NSW, the Live Traffic NSW page here.


Read how the industry was first warned of fire impacts, here


“The current Queensland forecast is severe fire conditions in parts of the state,” the unit advises.

“The unpredictable nature of the fires means that roads may close at short notice.

“All heavy vehicle operators travelling north/south between Queensland and NSW should carefully consider their travel options in light of these bushfires.

“Operators are encouraged to check the status of both the bushfires and road conditions using the websites above before they travel or if possible consider postponing their journey.” 

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) warns heavy vehicle operators to be aware of a large number of heavy vehicle movements taking place in fire-affected areas of Queensland and NSW over the coming days.

“The NHVR and road managers have fast-tracked a large number of permit applications over the past 24 hours to allow movement heavy vehicles in relation to firefighting operations, including Australian Defence Force vehicles,” it says.

Trucking insurer NTI is pleading with its customers to stay safe.

The insurer has received a number of claims since the bushfires began.

It notes dozens of communities remain under threat and there are predictions the fire danger will continue for the next week.

“The effects of these fires have been, and continue to be, devastating,” NTI CEO Tony Clark says.

“Tragically, we know families have lost loved ones.

“We know small business owners have lost vehicles which they rely on, from heavy vehicles, through to delivery vans and construction machinery.

“Others still are having their livelihoods impacted because their transport routes are affected by fire.”

Those impacted by the fires are encouraged to submit a claim as soon as possible.

“Customers or intermediaries needing to make a claim should contact NTI via the NTI Accident Assist service on 1800 NTI NOW,” Clark says. 

“This will allow the claim to be actioned as quickly as possible so we can get you back to business faster.

“Trauma counselling will also be available.”

Clark echoes calls for those in the transport and logistics industries to check their route was safe before departing.

“We know our customers are passionate about keeping Australia moving, but safety must come first,” he says.

“Check the latest warnings and road closure information and plan an alternative route if necessary.”

Toll Group has found itself on both sides of the crisis, supporting the firefighters’ efforts and continuing deliveries.

“Toll is proud to be supporting those fighting the NSW fires on the frontline by deploying a Toll Rescue Helicopter and tankers to deliver water and fuel,” it says.

“Our thoughts go out to the communities impacted and thank those on the front line who are working tireless during this time.”

 

Previous ArticleNext Article
Send this to a friend