Recent fatalities spur shared responsibility message during holiday peak
The latest iteration of Coffee with a Cop has linked operators with the Australian Trucking Association (ATA), NSW Police and Transport for NSW (TfNSW) at the Mundoonan Rest Area.
Coffee with a Cop is an initiative to help truck drivers connect, clarify issues and address concerns directly with police officers informally.
The Mundoonan Rest Area is in Jerrawa, southbound off the Hume Highway.
An ATA statement notes that, after a number of fatal heavy vehicle crashes in the area, local acting-inspector Mathew Carroll wanted to connect with drivers as they approach what is one of their busiest times of year.
“This initiative aims to break down barriers, we can chat directly with drivers about current issues and remind them to look after themselves during this peak period, manage their fatigue, stop, rest and refresh and get home safely,” he says.
“This is also a great way to say thank you for their service, all over a free coffee.”
How last year’s event took on a HVNL focus, here
ATA safety, health and wellbeing director Melissa Weller says the initiative showcases the attempts at collaboration between authorities and industry to improve road safety.
“It demonstrates the focus of all three organisations, the ATA, Police and Transport for NSW, on heavy vehicle driver safety and the safety of all road users,” Weller adds.
According to Transport for NSW director south west region Jonathan Tasker, the NSW government is focused on improving road safety to reduce the road toll in the state.
“This December we are calling on all road users to drive safely,” Tasker says.
“Our nation’s truck drivers are on the roads every day ensuring our shelves are stocked and that our fuel, goods and food are delivered.
“As we enter the holiday period, many of us are travelling on the roads to catch up with family and friends.
“It is also a peak period for freight movement, so it is important that all road users look after each other and share the road safely.”