SEAL keeps on trucking

SEAL keeps on trucking
Australia

MOVES to tackle the south-west's truck driver shortage are set to shift up a gear after a Warrnambool college acquired a major driver training school.

Warrnambool SEAL community college has taken over South West Training and Assessment (SWTA) in the hope of loading up the growing trucking industry with younger recruits.

Many industry figures have voiced concerns over the region's escalating shortage of truck drivers as companies prepare to start work on major energy projects and the Green Triangle's blue gum harvest.

SEAL chief executive officer Denis Bell said about half of the region's truck drivers were aged over 50, and suggested young people might soon take their place behind the wheel.

"It is a real growth area," Mr Bell said.

"Truck driving is coming under tighter control and regulation, with new road rules, fatigue management, safety issues, scheduling and licensing requirements.

"A lot of the physical input has gone out of it and it is now a career open to a much wider audience."

Mr Bell said SWTA trained and tested drivers on trucks, front-end loaders, excavators, back-hoes, graders, tractors and all-terrain vehicles.

SWTA's former owner, Hamilton's Lance Mason, will remain a senior trainer with SEAL.

"The existing services will continue but with the benefits of SEAL's administrative and office support and access to other instructors," Mr Bell said.

The centre will offer road transport traineeships as well as courses in worksite inspections and defensive driving.

It is the first acquisition in SEAL's 32-year history.
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http://www.standard.net.au/news/local/news/general/seal-keeps-on-trucking/1365034.aspx

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