Redplay have configured the first Hino 700 Series for livestock transport in Mackay.
A North Queensland agricultural transport services provider is enjoying the versatility and reliability of its customised Hino 700 Series heavy duty truck and dog trailer.
The 700 Series FS 2848 ProShift 16 Air with automated manual transmission (AMT) is primarily used by Redplay Pty Ltd to transport livestock around the Mackay region, but is also ideally suited to other tasks such as transporting Replay's fleet of tractors and slashers between contracts and delivering hay to hinterland graziers.
Company owner Wayne Davis said the decision to purchase the new Hino heavy duty 700 Series truck and dog trailer was largely based on favourable recommendations.
"The mechanics and truck drivers I spoke to all had very good things to say about Hino trucks, in particular their reputation for reliability and durability," Mr Davis said.
"Our 700 Series truck has all the horsepower we need and the pricing was very competitive too. It was also good to have a Hino dealer here in Mackay to guide us through the process and ensure we got the right truck for our needs."
Redplay's 700 Series FS 2848, with body and crates built by Transport Welding Engineering in Toowoomba, was fitted out by local Mackay dealership Carlisle Hino with a range of Hino Genuine accessories to ensure it met Redplay's specific requirements.
"Prior to delivery we fitted a number of accessories to the 700 Series, including spot lights, fridge/warmer, seat covers, stone guard, sun visor and alloy bull bar," said Andrew Banning, New Truck Manager at Carlisle Hino. "It's a value-add that ensures the trucks are best suited to their particular application."
A Groeneveld automatic greasing system was also supplied and fitted pre-delivery by Groeneveld Central Queensland.
"This is the first 700 Series truck and dog we've set up for livestock transport - it's a bit of a rarity in this area so it's great to have it out on the road demonstrating the versatility of the Hino heavy duty range," Mr Banning said.
The accessory package also includes three reversing cameras, two of which are positioned specifically to monitor livestock while they are being transported.
"It's very convenient to be able to see the cattle from the cabin while you're driving," Mr Davis said. "They're under constant surveillance; with other trucks you need to find a safe place to stop, get out and visually inspect the cattle to make sure they're all upright and in good condition.
"My driver is very impressed with the Hino all-round. It's so comfortable inside and the AMT makes it easy to drive, plus we expect to see some fuel-saving benefits from the transmission down the track."
The Hino700 Series heavy duty truck range comes standard with ABS brakes, cruise control, electric and heated exterior mirrors and Front Under-run Protection System.
The 700 Series cabin is designed to be an ergonomic and comfortable environment suitable for long days on the road, with fully air adjustable ISRI driver's seat and fully integrated seat-mounted seatbelt.
Redplay Pty Ltd has served the transport needs of the agricultural industry in Mackay and surrounds since 1993.