With two trucking operators stepping back, a new administration in NSW stepping forward and awards being presented, it’s been a story of both good news and bad news in the trucking world this week
NatRoad looking for toll relief
NatRoad says it looks forward to working with the new Minns Government in New South Wales, especially on the vexed question of tolls. NatRoad CEO, Warren Clark said his NSW Members regard tolls on the state’s privately-operated motorways as a major drag on their viability.
“The Minns Opposition promised to cut tolls for heavy vehicles on the M5 East and M8 and we look forward to those commitments being delivered once it is sworn in,” said Warren. “The pledge that heavy vehicle drivers will pay a third less in tolls for two years is welcome news. So is the appointment of former Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chairman Allan Fels as Tolls Commissioner, which NatRoad sees this as the first step in untying the messy knot that is Transurban’s monopoly on the State’s tollways.”
Another Operator Scaling Back
After 32 years in the business, Nicholson and Page Transport’s founders, Graeme Nicholson and Meredith Page have made the decision to sell half of their fleet through Ritchie Bros, although not retiring just yet, they plan to scale back the fleet and slowly transition towards retirement. They founded the company in 1991 with just one truck, a Ford LTS, and have since grown it into a successful business.
“Right now is a great time to be in the transportation industry,” said Graeme. “If I was younger, I’d be buying more trucks.”
He noted that finding good drivers is becoming increasingly challenging, which makes it difficult to maintain the company’s reputation and service his loyal customers to the high standard Graeme prides himself on. After 42 years of driving including 32 years of self-employment it’s time to slow down.
Another trucking operator into receivership
Rivet Mining Services, which hauls for iron ore and gold miners in Western Australia, went into receivership this week citing labour shortages and cost pressures. Difficulties in sourcing skilled drivers is quoted as being one of the factors in the collapse of an operation with 450 employees.
“Based on a preliminary assessment, it appears Rivet has been deeply affected by a number of adverse economic factors including extreme weather events, project delays, labour shortages, and cost pressures,” said FTI Consulting, which managing the process.
Iveco Awards Night
Iveco Trucks Australia has recognised its highest achieving dealers at a recent awards dinner event in Melbourne, held in conjunction with the internal launch of the company’s new heavy-duty S-Way range.
The Dealer of the Year winner was announced as STM Trucks & Machinery, led by Dealer Principal, Michael Gerace. Dealer of the Year – Light was taken out by Iveco Sydney, who had Dealer Principal, Daniel Glynn accept the award, while Dealer of the Year for the Medium and Heavy category was received by General Manager, Michelle Papalia, who accepted the award on behalf of Adelaide Iveco. Newcastle Iveco, was announced as Dealer of the Year – Regional, an accolade that was received by Dealer Principal, Sean Lynch.
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