As a result of Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) lobbying, VicRoads has announced the extension of the Victorian drought road train network to include Calder Highway, just in time for harvest.
“The VFF and our members have been calling out for measures to make it easier for hay and fodder to reach drought affected farmers in need,” said Mr Ashley Fraser, VFF Grains Group President.
“VicRoads should be congratulated for listening and acting quickly,” he said. “This network extension will have a positive impact on those transporting feed and on farmers in urgent need of supplies.
“Given the ongoing dry conditions, facilitating the efficient movement of hay and grain to drought-affected farmers is critical.
“We look forward to continuing to work with VicRoads to further increase access for high productivity freight vehicles and improve the efficient movement of food and fibre,” said Mr Fraser.
Farmers will now be able to apply for a permit to transport hay and feed to drought affected areas in New South Wales and Queensland on road trains along the Calder Hwy from Charlton to Mildura. This builds on the existing drought road train network on the Borung and Henty Highways.
You can view the Victoria’s full road train network here.
Media Contacts:
Ashley Fraser, VFF Grains Group President, 0418 176 764
Heather Smillie, VFF Stakeholder, Media & Communications Officer, 0400 874 589