The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) has sounded the alarm, calling for help to support the road freight industry as flooding continues to wreak havoc in Far North Queensland.
The QTA is calling for financial relief and support to help road freight transport companies deliver into north and Far North Queensland despite the current severe flood event.
QTA CEO Gary Mahon says the association is working around the clock to communicate to members what alternate and efficient routes are available, with timely updates presented over the past 10 days since intense rain first caused floods in the region.
“With daily losses exceeding $100,000 per fleet and hundreds of trucks driving 1000km detours, road freight transport businesses and their truck drivers are under immense pressure to deliver goods while battling adverse weather conditions, logistical barriers and bureaucracy,” Mahon says.
“The current situation we now find ourselves in is unprecedented in Queensland, with no or very limited intermittent access into the north of the state.”
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Mahon says the QTA has made every effort to prepare for this annual occurring natural disaster, advocating for permits for alternate routes prior to Christmas to allow multi-combinations to have pre-approved alternate access in the event of major freight route closures.
With funding now being committed to both the Inland Freight Route and the Bruce Highway, Mahon says some key road sections need to be sealed as soon as possible while important flood ways and bridge work also needs to be undertaken.
“The current flood situation has not only caused significant delays in the transportation of essential supplies, but has also placed substantial stress on our industry and the communities that rely on our services,” Mahon says.
“We have reports of business paying for private helicopters to fly food and supplies into stranded drivers and lift drivers out of flooded areas. This is another additional expense for road freight transport businesses.”
While the QTA acknowledges the supported provided by the Australian Defence Force and all other emergency response bodies, Mahon says more must be done to protect the road freight transport sector that is trying to maintain the supply of goods to communities impacted by the floods.
“Without timely interventions and support, the economic ramifications could escalate, affecting both road freight transport businesses, their customers and the communities they service,” he says.
“While our members are dedicated to meeting their contractual obligations, they are under increasing pressure from their freight clients to deliver regardless. The industry cannot override safety, they must abide by road closure directives. Safety must come first.”
The QTA is urging the state and federal governments to recognise the vital role of the road freight industry and take immediate actions to provide the necessary concessions to offset the enormous losses being incurred by transport businesses.
By doing so, Mahon says they can help support an industry that underpins the economy by providing an essential service during natural disasters.
“Protect not only the freight companies, but also the communities that depend on them for access to essential supplies,” he says.
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