A record 160 people attended the recent 'Be Road Ready For Harvest' Field Day/PBS Vehicle Demonstration at the Forbes Central West Livestock Exchange.
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Attendees were a mixture of farmers, contract harvesters, transport companies, agricultural machinery retailers, government agencies, council staff and relevant associations.
The day was supported by the Australian Custom Harvesters Association, NSW Farmers, WFI, Roads and Maritime Services, National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and the Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils.
It aimed to provide information about the current regulations for safely and legally moving agricultural vehicles and combinations on the road as well as showcase a variety of innovative performance based standards vehicles which can make a big difference to the safety and productivity of the growing freight task.
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator's Manager of Stakeholder Relations, John Gilbert said that the event was the largest demonstration of its type in Australia to date.
Local Australian Custom Harvesters Association Member, Bob Wythes, said it was great to still see strong numbers for the Field Day, despite the uncertainty of the upcoming harvest.
"Safety and compliance during harvest is very important, meaning operators need to be aware of their responsibilities and ensure that during harvest all warning devices and travel requirements are adhered to.
"Regulations are constantly changing and events like this are important to our members and others in the community to ensure we are up to date," Mr Wythes said.
The program included presentations about notices, chain of responsibility and safety management systems, as well as an interactive machinery inspection session.
NSW Farmers Parkes/Forbes Branch Chair Gavin Tom said the highlight of the day was the machinery inspections.
Organisers say that the Field Day will continue to be an annual event held in early August.