Machinery

Tracked tractors given green light on Victorian roads

Grain Central May 23, 2019

FARMERS will now be able to move tracked tractors on Victorian roads under the latest regulatory changes.

Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) Grains Group president, Ashley Fraser, said it was critical for Victoria to have common sense agricultural machinery regulation which removed the unnecessary red tape that hindered efficient grain production.

“We have been working with VicRoads and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to amend outdated regulation that prohibited rubber tracked tractors from moving on Victorian roads without a permit,” he said.

“The updated regulation means that grain farmers can now more easily move their tracked tractors efficiently between paddocks without needing to apply for a permit every time.

“These changes bring Victorian requirements in line with other states, and significantly reduce the regulatory burden for farmers during key production times such as sowing and harvest.”

Tracked tractors are an increasingly popular alternative to the traditional dual rubber tyre tractor as they minimise the impact on soils and crops.

The NHVR has updated the requirements for tracked tractors operating in Victoria, as follows: “For travel in Victoria, rubber tracked tractors must comply with the following conditions:

  • Travel at a maximum speed of 30 km/h;
  • Where practicable, avoid turning movements on road surfaces, particularly sealed pavements, to minimise road damage.

Source: VFF

More information: NHVR’s ‘National Class 1 Agricultural Vehicle and Combination Mass and Dimension Exemption Notice Operator’s Guide’.

 

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