THE Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) has today welcomed the announcement from a number of South West Victorian councils and shires allowing increased agricultural machinery and heavy vehicle access across the regions.

VFF president David Jochinke said the changes would increase efficiency and reduce regulations for farmers across the region.

“These changes will help drive farming efficiencies and reduce red-tape, enabling farmers to focus on producing the world-class food and fibre now and into the future.”

Summary of amendments:

• Permissible agricultural machinery dimensions in grain growing areas of the Colac Otway and Surf Coast regions have increased from 3.7 metres up to 6.5 metres wide;
• Agricultural machinery access on the Princes Highway between Corio and Colac has been reinstated after it was withdrawn following highway duplication roadworks;
• Access to 30 local roads has been granted for agricultural machinery by the Golden Plains Shire;
• B-double heavy vehicles will have improved access to farms across the Corangamite Shire’s northern region;
• The VicRoads Road Design Note has been amended to ensure access for agricultural machinery must be considered before altering roads in rural zones.

Mr Jochinke said the amended road access and regulations were welcome news after months of lobbying from the VFF.

“The VFF and our members have been calling out for measures to make it easier to move agricultural machinery and heavy vehicles on the road. The Department of Transport and local shires should be congratulated for listening and acting,” he said.

“These amendments are a great result for farmers In Victoria’s South West.”

Source: VFF