As Australia’s grain harvest season kicks off, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is working to support and keep our farmers, heavy vehicle drivers, and transport operators safe.
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With the celebrations of National Agriculture Day last week, (November 15) the NHVR highlights the need for safe practices, as heavy machinery and bulk loads start rolling out across our highways.
To address the challenges associated with grain harvest, this season the NHVR has launched a series of operations including Operation Harvest in South Australia and Victoria, as well as an increased presence in Queensland’s Toowoomba region, ensuring compliance and providing the right advice and information on enhancing safety across the sector.
NHVR acting COO Michelle Tayler emphasises the importance of safety during a high-demand period.
“This isn’t just another season — it’s the result of a year’s hard work for our farmers and the backbone of our food system,” she says.
“The NHVR’s core role is to help keep our roads safe and our supply chain strong, which is why our team is on the ground, working closely with the industry to make sure drivers, machinery, and loads are ready for the road.
“With heavier equipment and trucks loaded to capacity, we’re encouraging everyone to focus on the basics — roadworthy vehicles, safe loads, rested drivers, and the right routes.
“Together, we’re making sure our farmers’ hard work reaches communities across the country safely.”
Key safety checks will focus on ensuring agricultural machinery, like headers, are safely mobilised and equipped for the road.
From last year’s Operation Fusion, NHVR’s data found common risks such as brake defects, overloading, and aging vehicles often lead to safety issues during high-demand seasons and are a significant factor in heavy vehicle incidents.
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