The Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) says after years of lobbying, the establishment of a permitted road train network on key arterial roads throughout the Wimmera is a huge win for farmers.
VFF Grains Group President Ashley Fraser said the establishment of the permitted network builds on the success of the drought road train network and will enable the road trains to significantly boost the efficient movement of grain and hay.
“For the first time growers will be able to move grain and hay within the Wimmera by road train outside of drought.”
“This will allow farmers to not only continue to access vital interstate markets, but transport grain and hay within Western Victoria more efficiently.”
“This is a real game changer for many Wimmera farmers and transporters that the VFF have been lobbying for since the creation of the drought road network,” Mr Fraser said.
Mr Fraser said announcement comes after close collaboration between the VFF and Department of Transport to make this proposal a reality.
“The Department of Transport should be congratulated for listening and acting in the best interests of this incredibly important agricultural region.”
“We look forward to working with Department of Transport on increasing access for high productivity freight vehicles and to improve the efficient movement of food and fibre throughout Victoria,” Mr Fraser added.
Major roads incorporated in the network include the Calder Highway, Henty Highway, Western Highway and Borung Highway. Further information on the road train network can be viewed by clicking here