Heavy vehicles reforms are rolling-out in New South Wales this month, including permission for B-Triple rigs to travel the Newell Highway from Narrabri to Goondiwindi.

New South Wales Minister for Roads and Ports, Duncan Gay says a change in legislation means modular B-triples are now allowed to operate on the road train network west of the Newell, providing they conform to the same conditions as Type 1 road trains.

“Under this reform transport operators travelling from far western NSW, say on the Kamilaroi Hwy, will now be able to access the Newell at Narrabri to use the 225 kilometre stretch of highway to Goondiwindi, and then beyond,” Mr Gay said.

Industry statistics say the change will greatly increase hauling capacity to the Queensland border, with figures suggesting a semi-trailer operating at higher mass limits would take about 37 trips to transport 1000 tonnes of freight, where a B-Triple would only require 17.

Road Minister Duncan Gay says: “The bottom line is that modular B-triples - also referred to as high productivity vehicles - will provide a safer, more efficient way of carrying road freight; not to mention reducing truck moments and therefore 'wear and tear' on our roads.”

The stretch of highway in question has recently been prepared for its increased capacity; a $20 million funding package to fast-track improvements has seen the completion of three additional overtaking lanes north of Narrabri, while construction on another passing lane north of Moree will commence in September.

Modular B-triples are expected to start using the Newell Highway between Narrabri and Goondiwindi from late August, subject to permit approval. Operators interested in applying for permits can contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.