Goodaye and Happy Fathers Day to all. I have just been out for lunch with 3 of my four boys and have got a call or covid hug from my three girls. I hope you get to be with and or speak with family if on the road.
Out Monday into the closed state of Victoria, been there each week since well before all this started, so went twice this week for fun. First time out, do not really still know why, but nearly an hour to get through the checkpoint at Kalkallo. I had started the day with a double split to do a delivery, only to follow one of Visys into the same street, which believe you me, is not what I would imagine would be a b-double route, but the way they went, is not open to all it would seem. I am confident I could get into the delivery site, but would have to do it a certain way or would simply not be able to get out as a double. Will have to do some more research.
Then due to that longer than hoped double delivery, smoko and different forkies etc, got delayed four hours to load, then the delay on the way out and being at HML weights, could not shortcut through Condoblin, had to go to Tomingley before I could cut across to get to Nyngan the next day, so all those things conspired to completely screw the next days plan.
Slept in a new green reflector bay just north of Parkes, got up and rang in and said, “Houston, we have a problem”! Luckily there was a solution, thank you Geoffrey for then picking up the load he was to take and then taking it back to the yard for me to come in later and reload and he went and loaded mine at 1.30, which I had no chance of doing. It meant he got the direct drop and I then got first a split and then another double split, to deliver Thursday.
A bit better loading window, but back to work to top up a bit and out of Melbourne at 67.8 tonne, checked weights at Broadford and away we go. I must say a well thought out idea from Vicroads, allowing all bridges to be left on, so we can check weights. It will go a long way to help us be compliant if you load different stuff all the time and for those who load mostly the same freight, you should be able to get it near perfect. TMR in Queensland leave the scales on at the entry and exit to the port in Brisbane, but I did ask RMS about leaving the ones on north of Parkes and they were not interested, even when I spoke of the other states doing the same.
Back to Dubbo Friday, fit a new mudflap, change a couple of curtain straps and make some plans for trailer service and then HVIS is due, so tentative plans for early inspection etc with next service. Had to email a new photo for my DG license, rang to check and the lovely lady there sorted it late and then processed it and have a copy with a new card to come in the mail.
I got an early call from a respected driver who asked about the current ATA/ Big Rigs have s ay in the HVNL. It asks you a number of yes/no questions, but does allow you to comment, why you agree or otherwise. I spent some time explaining my answers and whilst I have done written and oral submissions etc, I will not give up or miss another chance to have a say. Have a look and make a comment, please. Till next week, Safe Travelling, Rod Hannifey.
TRUCKRIGHT 