NHVR halts grape harvest dangers in recent safety initiative

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has wrapped up a month-long campaign focused on tackling critical safety concerns related to heavy vehicles throughout the grape harvest season in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. 

NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said Operation Fortified is essential for facilitating the safe and seamless delivery of grapes and local products from the vineyard to the store.

“Heavy vehicles are currently hitting the road in force as the grape harvest season peaks, however it’s important to remember that safety is always in season,” Mr Salvati said.

“SA alone produces more than 50% of Australia’s wine, and in 2021-2022, the state’s industry produced more than 800,000 tonnes of grapes valued at $622 million.

“This just goes to show what a major contributor the industry is to the national economy, and with this kind of scale, it’s vital that the transport of these valuable crops is as smooth as fine wine.”

Mr. Salvati remarked that although we are aware this is a demanding time for the agricultural sector, we must ensure that safety is not compromised, as it could jeopardise what should be a very successful season.

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