Introduction of Purpose-Built Trailer for Livestock Transport in Queensland

In a significant development for the livestock transport industry, Queensland transporters have unveiled a new, purpose-built trailer designed to address rollover emergencies. This initiative is particularly critical for the densely populated regions of the state, where hundreds of cattle trucks navigate weekly, supplying some of Australia’s largest processing facilities.

Collaboration for Enhanced Safety

The Livestock & Rural Transporters Association of Queensland (LRTAQ) has worked collaboratively with Hans Trailers & Livestock Equipment to create a compact set of portable yards and a loading ramp. This equipment will be stored on a trailer located at the HLE Smith & Co Transport yards in Harlin, located in the Brisbane Valley.

“This initiative is rooted in animal welfare, driver safety, and the overall care of the livestock transport industry,” stated LRTAQ chair Jared Seiler.

LRTAQ President Jared Seiler

Addressing Unique Challenges

Seiler elaborated, “While rural areas permit us to easily manage cattle by leading them to paddocks or yards, Southeast Queensland lacks these options. We sincerely hope we never have to employ this trailer, but having it available is a comforting assurance.”

Community-Funded Innovation

The funding for the portable yards came entirely from LRTAQ members, who contributed by purchasing individual panels at auction to support the trailer’s construction and its ongoing maintenance. The design of the trailer emphasizes practicality and security, featuring welded components to minimize parts loss and GPS tracking to deter theft.

“This is a solution crafted by individuals who understand the operational needs. We take pride in both the product we’ve created and the collaborative spirit within our industry,” Seiler added.

Beyond Rollovers: A Multifaceted Emergency Response

Attendees at a recent demonstration at Swalling’s Livestock Transport in Toowoomba noted that most incidents in Southeast Queensland are caused by other road users. Rollover accidents, although serious, are not the only concern for transport operators.

Athol Carter, compliance manager at Fraser’s Central Queensland, highlighted that the trailer will also be crucial for other emergency situations that may obstruct major highways. “This trailer is designed for a broad range of responses, beyond just accidents,” he said.

“Our drivers frequently face delays due to incidents that are completely out of their control, whether environmental or otherwise. This trailer will enhance our ability to react promptly.”

Accessibility for All

• The trailer is available for use by both members and non-members of the LRTAQ, and interested parties can reach out to the LRTAQ office at 0493 669 551.

For more insights, check out Beef Central’s recent feature on the Top 25 Livestock Transporters.