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National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) Safety and Compliance Officers Kathleen and Georgia Forth are spreading the word about road safety for all motorists on Mother’s Day.
The duo not only have a keen interest in heavy vehicles, but they share the special bond of being mother and daughter.
“My journey into the NHVR began after hearing my mum speak so passionately about her role, her team and the work she was doing,” said Georgia.
“Working in the same industry and sharing knowledge, stories and expertise has helped strengthen our commitment to improving road safety.
“Even when we’re not at work, we never really want to stop talking about our jobs or some of the experiences we’ve shared on the road.
“I’ve loved being part of the NHVR alongside my mum, and it’s amazing to share this journey of our careers together.”
Kathleen said the pair’s close bond had helped each of them to grow not only their skillset, but their bond as mother and daughter.
“Working in a mother-daughter dynamic has helped reinforce our commitment to road safety and the importance of making sure everyone gets home safely.
“Seeing Georgia perform her role makes me extremely proud- she has a very wide knowledge of heavy vehicles and a fantastic capacity to retain knowledge, and there are many times when she has assisted me with queries.”
Both Kathleen and Georgia continually work to educate motorists and emphasise the role all road users play in safety.
“Small actions like keeping a safe distance, avoiding distractions, and respecting other drivers can make a big difference in keeping everyone safe,” said Georgia.
“The community can help us do our job and make a positive difference by being patient around trucks this Mother’s Day.”
Already one of the busier traffic days of the year with more families hitting the road, the weekend also sees more trucks out and about as they transport precious goods like flowers.
NHVR Chief Operations Officer Paul Salvati said the simplest way to help all drivers reach their destination involved being patient, slowing down, and paying attention.
“Australia’s trucks play a crucial role in delivering essential goods and services to our local shops and supermarkets,” Mr Salvati said.
“While we have trucks out delivering goods to stores in time for Mother’s Day, it’s a timely reminder to practise driving safety regardless and give heavy vehicles the extra space they need.
“Trucks have different blind spots than cars and require a longer distance to safely stop, so leave plenty of space before pulling in front of a truck and keep either lane beside a truck free when it’s accessing a roundabout or turning.
“Road crashes are preventable, and safe driving behaviours can help ensure all mums and road users get home safely.”
The NHVR offers resources to help light vehicle drivers refresh their knowledge of heavy vehicle safety on its website.
Find out more by visiting www.nhvr.gov.au/safety-campaigns