Astra logs the kilometres in WA

Harvesting timber requires a unique type of vehicle, especially when the plantation tracks are steep, slippery and muddy after rain – it’s an environment where 8x8 traction makes a big difference.

It was for these demanding conditions that last year, Plantation Logging Co of Bunbury WA, purchased an IVECO Astra 8x8, and now with around 120,000 kilometres on the clock, the company couldn’t be happier with its performance.

Started by Jeff Loton in 1994, Plantation Logging Co has expanded to become the largest pine tree harvesting and log haulage contracting company in the state, employing around 100 people.

The shift to Astra came about due to some problems arising with the current fleet.
“We’d been using another brand truck for this short lead application – 80 kilometres from headquarters to the plantation sites – but began having some longevity issues with them,” Loton said.

“This led us to start taking a look at the alternatives, we wanted to see what else was out there that could do the job and the Astra looked like it had everything we needed – it’s performed very well in the time we’ve had it. The Astra is excellent at dragging a heavy dog trailer around.”

Set up as a rigid, towing a low-profile six-axle dog, the Astra works 10 to 12 hours a day, five days per week – the combination normally operates at 68 tonnes (concessional loading on trailer applies), delivering the logs from a range of pine and blue gum plantations to sawmills in Bunbury.

According to Jeff, the Astra has several benefits over the other vehicles on fleet being used for this same application.

“With a 520hp (2400Nm) engine, the Astra has an extra 40hp available compared to the other trucks we use, despite having more power, fuel efficiency is on par. Our driver really enjoys having access to additional power, it’s noticeable in how the truck performs,” he said.

“The Astra’s transmission (16-speed Eurotronic AMT) also has another four gears to provide better spread of ratios for the conditions.”

If the conditions require it, the Astra features hub reduction to all axles and the combination of a high tensile steel chassis and parabolic spring suspension provides superior articulation and traction.

On the inside, the Astra features many of the benefits of its road-going IVECO counterparts to provide a comfortable ride both on and off road. The features include a spring suspended cabin, electric windows, air conditioning, a detailed multifunction instrument cluster, ergonomically-designed dashboard and air suspended driver’s seat.

The Astra was purchased from Perth-based IVECO dealership, AV Trucks and is maintained by Plantation Logging Co’s in-house workshop.

According to Jeff, the Astra has definitely proven itself during its time on fleet and he said he will be adding to his holding of Astras in the future.

“A lot of our work is done on a contract basis and a couple of these contracts are due for renewal within the next 12 months,” he said.

“If we’re successful we’ll certainly be looking at bringing more Astras into the business.”