TRUCK drivers and operators around Australia can look forward to the nation's first ever TruckWeek, to be held in February next year.
The brainchild of the Australian Trucking Association, TruckWeek will be held February 21-27.
The ATA said TruckWeek will be an opportunity to promote the trucking industry and various aspects of road transport such as road safety and careers in truck driving.
ATA chairman Trevor Martyn said the ATA and its member organisations would also use the seven-day truck-fest to raise and discuss key issues with politicians.
"In addition, the ATA is encouraging every trucking operator to put in some time to conduct a TruckWeek event for staff or the local community," Trevor said.
"If you can't run an event yourself, why not attend a TruckWeek function as there will be plenty organised by ATA members.
"You could invite a speaker to come to the workplace and talk about health issues that particularly affect the trucking workforce like heart disease, diabetes or sleep problems.
"Or invite a local councillor or state politician to take a ride in a truck to give them a driver's eye view of the importance of road funding and safety."
Trucking companies that are ATA members will be able to post their event details on a website to highlight support for the industry.
"Starting in January, the website will feature news updates, ideas about possible events, resource information, and an online form to register events," Trevor said.
Another major trucking event will also be held in February when Trucks In Action takes place at Lardner Park, Warragul.
Held every two years, Trucks In Action is the only truck show in the southern hemisphere where trucks can be driven in actual road conditions for demonstration.
There are two road courses, one for rigid trucks and one for single trailer trucks.
Trucks In Action is scheduled for February 19-21.
- For details on TruckWeek, phone Bill McKinley on (02) 6253 6900. For details on Trucks in Action, phone Mark Cockerell on (03) 5626 1373.
