Cotton growers, farm managers and transport contractors have been taking part in “hugely successful” Cotton Australia transport events in recent days, and there’s one coming to Spring Ridge on February 28.
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The forums aim to help people in the cotton and haulage industries prepare for the upcoming harvest season, with information on the latest road regulations and other issues.
The events have been held from mid-February in Dalby, Goondiwindi, Mungindi, St George and Nevertire, and will also cover Darlington Point and Hillston.
Attendees have heard from Cotton Australia’s technical specialists, plus representatives from regulatory authorities including the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator.
Cotton Australia general manager Michael Murray said he encouraged growers and contractors to attend, to ensure they knew “what’s expected of them and how best to comply”.
“We’ve been running pre-season meetings in various regions now for about five years, but this is the first time in awhile for the Upper Namoi and the first time ever in Spring Ridge,” Mr Murray said.
“We’ve found over the years there’s been a fair bit of change in the transport space, particularly with the introduction of round bale pickers, and it’s good to be proactive ... to make sure people know exactly what the laws are.
“Since we’ve been doing it, the number of issues for contractors and growers has fallen enormously; issues around correct load restraint, dimensions of machinery and people generally understanding what they can and can't do, particularly in moving the large round bale pickers.”
Mr Murray said harvest season was “an extremely busy time on-farm and on the roads”.
“These events, free for all attendees, were a great opportunity for farmers and contractors to get the latest information direct from the experts in their fields,” he said.
“They were also a great way for farmers and transporters to voice any concerns directly to the regulatory authorities.”
He said the organisation was very happy with attendance at the events: 30 people in Dalby, 19 in Goondiwindi, 5 in Mungindi, 14 in St George, and 15 in Nevertire.
The Spring Ridge meeting will be held at the country club from 10am to noon, with a light lunch afterwards.
RSVP to Cotton Australia regional manager Paul Sloman on 0448 094 883.
Carolyn Millet
Based at The Northern Daily Leader, Tamworth, and Namoi Valley Independent, Gunnedah. Covering general news and features on community, council, arts, business, health, education, entertainment and rural matters.
Based at The Northern Daily Leader, Tamworth, and Namoi Valley Independent, Gunnedah. Covering general news and features on community, council, arts, business, health, education, entertainment and rural matters.
