The NHVR has stepped up to help fund the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) Safety Truck's road safety education programs with $5,000 funding per year for four years.
The NHVR has committed to providing much-needed funding for the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) Safety Truck, with the aim of raising awareness around truck safety with children.
NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto announced the sponsorship of the Volvo ATA Safety Truck, powered by BP, protected by NTI program at Queensland’s Browns Plains State School on February 15.
“We’re pleased to be able to support this program and bring the Safety Truck message to schools like Browns Plains to educate children on what trucks mean to them and how to safely behave around them,” Petroccitto says.
“At the NHVR we believe it is vital for the community to have positive relationship with the heavy vehicle industry, because we need them and they need us.
“We want the community to have an understanding of what role this industry plays in their everyday life.”
The Safety Truck participates in road safety education programs, industry-led community events and other public events across Australia.
According to ATA Chair Noelene Watson, the truck’s running costs are ongoing, as is the need to have it refurbished as safety messages evolve and maintenance is required.
“All the dollars help,” Watson says.
“The initial investment for the trailer was about $1.2 million.
“We then refurbished it three years ago and spent another $400,000 dollars on it.
“It’s due to be refurbished again at the end of this year, so we’re looking at a continued investment in safety.
“To run the trailer costs between $200,000 and $300,000 a year, and that’s a commitment we make to the community from the transport industry.
In 2016, the Safety Truck visited 15 schools across the country, directly engaging with up to 3,000 primary and secondary school students. The truck also participated in over 30 events throughout the year, highlighting that road safety is an essential message at any age.
Watson says the ATA is thankful of the NHVR’s support of the Safety Truck’s initiatives toward educating everyday motorists as well as preparing the next generation of Australian road users to share the road safely.
“The ATA is pleased the NHVR is taking the opportunity to build on its commitment to road safety investment,” Watson says.
To find out where the Safety Truck is heading next, check out the Safety Truck’s Event Calendar or email safetytruck@truck.net.au to get the Safety Truck to your next event.
Photography: Cobey Bartels