Extension of triple bottom road train operations in Mid-West will reduce costs

10/2/95

The extension of triple bottom road train operations in the Mid-West and Murchison would reduce transport costs and road wear, as well as improve the regional economy, Transport Minister Eric Charlton said today.

Mr Charlton said road improvements on the Geraldton-Mt Magnet Road had been completed to allow the safe introduction of triple road trains between Mullewa and Mt Magnet and Main Roads was investigating what improvements would be needed to extend operations between Mullewa and Geraldton.

"The upgrading has been mainly shoulder maintenance and some shoulder re-establishment, together with construction of a large truck bay eight kilometres east of Mullewa," he said.

"The expanded truck bay allows road trains to break down from triples to doubles.

"These works have cost about $200,000.

"Enabling triple road trains to extend their range of operations means greater efficiencies for the heavy haulage industry.

"In turn, this means reduced freight costs and less wear and tear on our roads, because you are reducing the number of prime movers and trailers needed to complete the same transportation task."

Mr Charlton said that as a further safety enhancement, all road trains travelling the Mullewa-Mt Magnet section would be restricted to a 90 kilometres per hour speed limit.

Main Roads would be erecting signs advising all road users to ensure caution when overtaking.

The introduction of triple road trains to the Mullewa-Mt Magnet route follows last year's successful extension of triple operations on the Great Northern Highway between Meekatharra and Wubin.

Media contact: Dean Roberts 321 7333