Do you know about a very large transport operation on the move in Victoria? If you haven’t heard about it, then let’s take a glance right now.
Wherever you drive in Australia, you cannot miss seeing a truck with an oversized load. It could be moving an old house from one place to another, moving equipment into the mines or construction sites, or moving gigantic turbines for some wind farm.
A vast power transformer leaves Appleton Dock, Port of Melbourne, at 11 pm on Tuesday, 14th January 2025. It will reach Plumpton by 5 am on Wednesday, 15th January 2025.
The length of the heavy vehicle is about 78 metres long, and its width is about 4.5 metres wide. Moreover, it is suitable for transporting the transformer.
Staying at a safe distance when the load is travelling or parked is the best way to avoid a mishap since this is quite a tricky operation. If driving out is necessary during this time, plan to ensure a scarce source of delays or take another route.
The Journey of Very Large Transport Operation on the Move
As part of the transport operation, escort vehicles and co-driver teams will follow closely. They will escort the load at the front and behind the car to ensure road safety during and after the move. It will be travelling at night to mitigate the impact on the road network.
For taking a ride in transport, the average speed is 45 kilometres per hour. Meanwhile, there are circumstances, especially when crossing bridges and corners, and they have to further slow down to around 5 km/hr.

For a brief time, a temporary road closure will occur from Sunshine Avenue between Rutherglen Way to Santa Monica. Moreover, it is vital for the time taken for the heavy vehicle to negotiate a tight roundabout within the vicinity.
Ensuring Road Safety during a Very Large Transport Operation on the Move
Transport operations will be running at significantly reduced speeds. Plan for the travel in advance and allow extra time. There will be some places where traffic police will supervise the underpass.
When you notice a pilot or an escort vehicle equipped with “Oversize Load Ahead” signage and yellow flashing lights, slow down and move as far to your left as possible. All drivers should prepare to stop after receiving any instructions.

If you are coming from the rear, slow down and wait for the transport operation. You will be able to overtake it again when it is safe to follow through.
You can only overtake when instructed to do so. Do not overtake the pilot or escort vehicle, juncture the load, and get stuck in between. It makes it difficult for everyone to do an efficient job, and you put yourself and others in harm’s way.
Also Read: How Much Do Truck Drivers Earn in Australia? Salary & Wages
Maintain Safety While Parking the Oversized Vehicle and Power Transformer
HVNL law says that you should not stop on a freeway to look at the load when it is parked, both for your safety and that of other road users. Stopping on a freeway is illegal and dangerous both for oneself and other road users, including passengers in one’s vehicle.

Victoria Police and the National Heavy Vehicle Register can impose penalties if caught. Moreover, there would be no opportunities for viewing. It is for everyone’s safety, including any children who may accompany you.
Plan Ahead of the Very Large Transport Operation on the Move
That’s a lot of arrangement. It involves a big crew of specialists in the transport, and their safety and your safety are the areas of focus. Kindly plan your trip earlier and stay away from the vicinity.

Visit the VicTraffic website for live travel recommendations; don’t forget to allow yourself plenty of flexible time to make it to your destination.
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