THE Victorian Farmers Federation has welcomed a federal government decision to allow longer and higher loads of fodder to travel across state and national-controlled roads.
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The new measures mean heavy vehicles up to a maximum height of 4.6 metres and width of 2.83 metres will no longer require permits to access the existing state-controlled road networks.
Previously, access was limited for Class 3 vehicles up to 2.6 metres wide and 4.3 metres high.
VFF grains group president and Warracknabeal farmer Ross Johns said the changes would greatly benefit farmers across the country.
“We hope this is the first step towards a harmonised national hay carting notice, which will ultimately lead to increased access and efficiency for all kinds of heavy vehicles on Victorian roads,” he said.
“We have seen too many hay deliveries to farmers battling dry conditions held up at state borders because of excessive red tape and bureaucracy.
“Farmers have been calling out for measures which make it easier for hay and fodder to reach farmers in need, and the federal government should be congratulated for listening and acting.
“Given current feed shortages, ensuring the efficient movement of hay throughout Victoria and across state borders to drought-affected farmers is critical.”
VicRoads announced last week it would support farmers by allowing larger loads on approved heavy vehicles though its Grain Harvest Management Scheme.
Online applications are now open for the scheme, allowing participants to increase their load by five per cent.
VicRoads heavy vehicle services director Eric Henderson said the scheme gave operators greater ability to transport more grain safely.
“We know that the grain harvest season is a busy time of year on our roads, with farmers and heavy vehicle operators transporting big loads across the state and we’re here to support them,” he said.
“Safety is our number one priority which is why the scheme is available to operators with newer and safer vehicles made on or after 1 January, 2002.”
The season will be extended from October 1 through to 30 May, 2019.
To apply for the 2018 Grain Harvest Management Scheme, head to VicRoad’s website.
