Volvo 2010 Annual Report Download - page 47

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All over the world, people are waiting for the mailman. Distributing mail
is a complex and challenging logistical task, especially in Australia. 21
million letters and parcels reach their destination every day, despite vast
distances and some of the toughest road conditions in the world. Without
reliable trucks, it wouldn’t be possible.
Twin beams of light cut through the darkness and driver Rick Hoyne is on the
alert as he pilots his Volvo FH through the Australian night. Based in Mel-
bourne, Rick is a 22 year veteran with Australia Post. This particular night
he is heading for Dubbo, a route covering more than 700 kilometers. There,
another driver takes over, continuing the long journey to Brisbane.
Rick is driving on a long straight stretch of the Newell Highway near the
isolated town of Jerilderie in Western New South Wales. The region is in the
grip of drought and kangaroos flock to the roadside where the grass growing
along the verge is moist from dew. Rick stares intently through the windscreen,
ready to take evasive action should the need arise.
Australia is known for having among the world’s toughest road conditions
for trucks. The weather in Australia varies from tropical storms with tem-
peratures approaching 40 degrees Celsius in the far north, to snow and ice in
the Australian Alps in the south.
“Australia is a big country. The distances are vast so it is important that all
aspects are taken into consideration to ensure on-time delivery,” says Chris
Pearce, Manager Surface Transport, Network Distribution Transport at Aus-
tralia Post.
The company handles postal distribution to all cities and towns in the
country. Its fleet consists of vehicles ranging from motorcycles to tractors with
double semi-trailers. Delivering mail in Australia is a huge logistical task.
Australia Post handles 21 million postal items daily, of which two million
parcels, and the figure rises to more than double that around the Christmas
peak period.
125 Volvo FH trucks make up the core of the line haul transports. 65 of the
trucks pull double semi trailers, so called B-doubles. By using larger rigs,
many smaller trucks can be replaced. This means more fuel-efficient trans-
portation, lower emissions, less congestion and less road wear. With the
installation of front underrun protection and high cab safety as standard,
Volvo was one of the first truck makers to meet the legislation for 26-meter
B-Double rigs in the country.
All the trucks are fitted with Volvo’s transport information and driver alert
systems. The strong and safe cab also plays a role in the operation as Aus-
tralia has an ongoing problem with kangaroos crossing highways, as well as
loose livestock in unfenced regions.
Rick Hoyne remains on the lookout for kangaroos on his night route.
“You need to be comfortable to be safe. On long-distance routes, fatigue is
reduced when the truck you are driving is comfortable”, he says.
43