Queensland farmers will be able to spend more time in the paddock after a determination by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

NHVR Director of Access Peter Caprioli has announced the new Bundaberg Region Class 1 Agricultural Vehicle Dimension Exemption Notice, which authorises vehicles up to 5m wide to travel on minor roads in the Bundaberg region without the need for a special permit.

“It is also important to understand that there is no requirement to carry a copy of the notice in the vehicle while making the journey,” Mr Caprioli said.

Chair of Bundaberg Canegrowers Allan Dingle welcomed the decision, saying it showed the power of strong representations by Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt and Bundaberg Regional Council.

“This exemption shows what can be achieved when industry, local government and an active federal member work together,” Mr Dingle said.

Mr Pitt thanked NHVR as well.

“Cutting time-consuming red tape helps businesses be more productive, which is good for our local economy,” Mr Pitt said.

Bundaberg Mayor Mal Forman said council undertook and assessment of local road conditions and found that agricultural productivity could be boosted without adding undue risks.

“Any potential risks to public safety have been considered with this amendment” Mr Forman said.

“This notice will be very well received by both the agricultural and transport sectors.”

Normally, travel by oversized agricultural vehicles in Queensland is regulated by Form 14 guidelines, which divide the state into three zones.

Each zone is treated individually. Bundaberg is technically in Zone 1, but its agricultural vehicles now fall under the less stringent Zone 2 conditions on minor roads.