A breakfast forum putting heavy vehicle safety in the spotlight was held recently by Lachlan, Parkes and Forbes Shire Councils.

The event is run annually but had been postponed for the past two years due to COVID-19.

Its return saw more than 60 delegates from across the region join forces to tackle some of the current road safety and freight issues affecting the local heavy vehicle industry.

"Freight is important - everything we consume comes off the back of a truck, and safety in that sector is vital," Forbes, Parkes and Lachlan Shire Council's Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer, Melanie Suitor said.

The forum was attended by local transport companies, truck drivers and farmers along with various associations and government agencies.

The topics covered included effluent load restraint, heavy vehicle access and PBS vehicles. Presenters included representatives from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association, Transport for NSW, Midland Industries, SafeWork NSW and the Councils.

"There were a lot of questions about rest areas, local access and the cost savings that are offered by PBS vehicles," Ms Suitor said.

Delegates were also given the opportunity to view a 30 metre A-Double combination, built to operate under the Level 2B PBS network. It's a versatile combination for general and containerised freight and was kindly supplied by Midland Industries.

The large turnout of heavy vehicle operators to the Condobolin forum indicates the commitment to improved conditions and results for the industry in the region. PHOTO SUPPLIED.

Ms Suitor was in good spirits about the day, acknowledging the importance of such networking events for the safety of local communities.

"Events like this forum are essential in providing opportunities to share information, network and discuss local issues."

"Feedback has been very positive. Most people reported that the forum had met their expectations, they would attend next year's event and have suggested topics to include on next year's program," Ms Suitor said.

Organisers are now turning their attention to the annual Be Road Ready for Harvest Field Day which will return as a hybrid face to face and online event on Thursday 11 August.