Wrapping your head around Ag Pilot Requirements

It’s come to our attention that there has been news from the Department of Main Roads regarding Agricultural Pilot Requirements in WA. So what does this mean for you and your farm when shifting paddocks/farms? We’ve tried our best to read and sift through the information and can share the below with you!
When moving an oversize agricultural load including a machine, towed agricultural implement or an agricultural combination a pilot vehicle may be required. A new flow chart has been created to assist you in understanding if you do or do not need a pilot when shifting your gear this hay/harvest and going forward.
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The flow chart helps to determine whether you need a pilot or not by the size (length and width) of your ‘vehicle’ and/or which road you will be travelling on. When the flow chart refers to ‘orange zones’ it is referring to selected roads in our Shire. We’ve looked through the list and have found the below are classified as ‘Orange Zones/Roads’. Please note that your property/ies may cross into other Shires and to check if you may be impacted you can view the full list by CLICKING HERE.
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So what is the difference between an Agricultural Pilot Role and a Licensed Pilot?

As per the Agricultural Pilot Operations Requirements Booklet, an Agricultural Pilot does not hold a Heavy Vehicle Pilot License and as such is not authorised under the Road Traffic Code 2000 to direct traffic. The Primary objectives of an Agricultural Pilot are to:

1. Provide a visual advance warning by means of signs, warning lights and two-way radio communications, to other road users of the approach of an Oversize Agricultural Vehicle using the road;
2. Inform the Oversize Agricultural Vehicle driver, by an electronic device, of oncoming traffic, road conditions, bridge and clearance of load from trees and obstacles;
3. When assisting with the movement of an Oversize Agricultural Vehicle crossing a road, is responsible for informing the driver of an Oversize Agricultural Vehicle when the road is safe to cross; and
4. Provide “rear vision” when required due to the width of the Oversize Agricultural Vehicle.

The Agricultural Pilot Operations Requirements Booklet by CLICKING HERE also goes into more depth of each requirement e.g. position when convoying, warning light requirements, sign requirements etc.

If this impacts you and your business please place an expression of interest with us, as the Dumbleyung CRC as we are looking to host facilitator Jim Davidson of Competent Solutions to provide training here in Dumbleyung the week of October 21st, 2019. A minimum of 8 people are needed for the Licensed Pilot course to proceed. The training options are as below,
2.5 half day License Pilot Course

• 2 days theory and half day practical
• Cost is $1120 per person
• Upon successful completion you will need to
  • Obtain a commercial driver’s medical certificate (at own cost)
  • Submit application to Main Roads at an additional cost of $205

1 day Agricultural Pilot Information Session

• 1 day theory
• Cost is $320 per person
• Includes all aspects involved in the movement of agricultural machinery
• Non-accredited course with a certificate of attendance issued on completion

Register your interest by calling the CRC on 9863 4829 or emailing admin@dumbleyungcrc.com. Registration needed by Wednesday October 15 and payment required to confirm place in course. 

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