Cootes grounds Vic tankers

The Cootes Transport saga has taken another turn, with the company recently sidelining its entire Victorian fleet of tankers

Just days after the NSW Minister for Transport, Duncan Gay, ordered a full audit of Cootes Transport’s tankers that operate in that state, the embattled transport company’s woes are continuing, with a VicRoads inspection leading to Cootes sidelining its tankers in Victoria.

ABC News reports that the recent VicRoads audit found Cootes equipment afflicted by brake faults, airbag issues, oil leaks and loose bolts. A Herald Sun report states that of the 32 vehicles inspected, 25 were found to be defective.

The results of the inspection have prompted Cootes to ground its entire Victorian fleet of tankers, triggering concerns in the state of fuel shortages. However, the acting CEO of VicRoads, Peter Todd, says it’s too early to predict the measure’s ramifications.

“Yes, there may be some impact,” Todd told ABC News.

“However, our priority is to get the vehicles into a safe condition before they’re back on the road.

“We are disappointed with the number of defects we found.”

Todd said the VicRoads audit of Cootes, which was already scheduled, was brought forward after numerous defects were found in the latest NSW audit.

Cootes Transport, which is owned by McAleese Group, has issued a statement regarding the action.

“Cootes Transport proactively began operational and safety inspections of its Victorian fleet last night by independently authorised inspectors,” says the statement.

“We are working closely with regulators to address issues within the fleet while maintaining supply of essential services across the country.

“Regulators have been fully briefed on the steps being taken by McAleese to remedy any issues which include the appointment of independent safety experts, voluntary inspections and a significant investment in new vehicles.

“We are working closely with regulators to address issues within the fleet while maintaining supply of essential services across the country.”

Cootes says it’s spent $5 million on repairs and maintenance of its national fleet since October 2013, when a Cootes tanker lost control in Mona Vale, Sydney, killing two people.

Cootes grounds Vic tankers

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