Ensuring the optimal performance of your truck is crucial for a smooth and safe journey. In this blog, we’ll share essential daily checks and maintenance tips to keep your truck in top condition.

1. Fluid Checks: “Water and engine oil are the life-blood of the truck,” says trucking legend Don Spiers,  Begin each day by inspecting these vital fluids. After a long trip, check for leaks when the engine has cooled, as rubber seals may contract, making leaks apparent.

2. Fueling Up: When refuelling, take the opportunity to check for issues by following these important steps:

• Ensure the truck is switched off.
• Get under the truck and inspect for water, diesel, and engine leaks.
• Listen for air leaks in the air-lines.
• Strike each tire with a metal bar to check for pressure loss due to punctures.
• Check wheel hub temperature for potential issues with wheel bearings or axles.
• Verify load restraints, binders, and ratchets.

3. Driving Tips: Dad’s Wisdom: “My dad, Don Spiers, who was a truck operator for 53 years, taught me to always think other drivers are drunk when on the road or passing. This mindset prepares you for evasive action if another driver behaves erratically,” said KEE’s director Clayton Spiers. “Another good tip Don told me was, when turning a corner with a heavy load, think to yourself that the load has not been strapped down; this is the amount of speed and caution you will need to take.”

4. Accident Response: In the unfortunate event of hitting an animal, do not swerve or break. Hold your line and lightly pump your breaks to decrease the speed. Refer to next week’s blog “Kangaroo Collision Response: Six Steps for Survival” for guidance on the necessary steps to take should you accidentally hit a kangaroo.

5. Essential ‘Sticky Situation Tool Kit’:

Every driver has a list of items they need to legally have on them while driving, but here is a list of items which will help get you out of a sticky situation, should you have an issue in a remote area with the maintenance of your truck:

What to bring in your tool kit:

• Puncture plug kit
• Metal hose clips
• Nuts and bolts assortment
• Side cutters
• Various grades of wire
• Male and female air-line connections
• Spare air-lines and Susie coils
• Various spanners and tools
• Hydraulic and engine oil
• Water and coolant
• Three road cones
• High-visibility vest

By incorporating this tool kit and these tips into your daily routine, you contribute to the longevity and safety of your truck. Regular maintenance ensures a reliable and efficient driving experience. Safe travels!

Surfacing Administration Manager, Anita King is part of KEE’s exclusive Ten Years of Service Club. Anita has been with us from very early on, helping to build the foundations and contributing to the core values upon which KEE now stands.

Anita was brought up in a large family household with four sisters and one brother. “Growing up in a family of eight with one bathroom and one TV was a bit different to today. We often had to line up to use the toilet or shower and would fight to get our favourite TV show on, with dad usually winning that fight,” she says, smiling. “I have watched more episodes than I care to remember of The Benny Hill Show! I still can hear the show’s theme song in my head!”

From Family Values to Corporate Success

Guided by the strong work ethic of her father and the nurturing nature of her mother, Anita’s foundational values were cemented early on. “My Dad can only be described as a true gentleman. He was also very hard working and often had two jobs to help put all six of us through private schools. My Mum is the consummate nurturer and carer, and is still looking after everyone today.”

Mrs King; Our Queen of Surfacing 

KEE’s Surfacing Manager, Bumpy Samuel says, “Anita joined the company back in 2012. She started at the front desk at our humble office in Balcatta, and she has had exposure to all departments that make up what we all know as KEEGroup.” He continued, “Anita’s main strength is her ability to give direction (even if you haven’t requested it LOL!), which keeps us all in line. Her attitude and work ethic have been assets to the business, and we look forward to Anita helping us drive our division for many more years to come.” Anita thrives in KEE’s unique work culture. “I love working with Bumpy, Damon, Clayton and Antonia. KEE is definitely a different place to work. Certainly not a normal office, which is why I like it. It’s a lot of fun, but we all work hard. There is a big “care factor” with what we do.”

With her Hungarian heritage, Anita has been to Budapest twice now. “When I fly in, I feel a connection. It’s a feeling that’s hard to describe,” she said. “The restaurants on the river opposite Buda Castle are a favourite place to eat and all the buildings lit up at night along the Danube are absolutely spectacular. I love the city and can’t wait to visit again.”

Anita and husband Sean have two sons, Jordan and Tom who have moved from WA for work, and one daughter, Hannah, who lives in Perth with her partner and her three-year-old twins. “Although home-life is a little quieter now, I get everyone home together at Christmas and most Easter holiday breaks so that keeps me happy!” Anita is pictured with her grand-daughter, Lani.

We were proud to participate once again in the annual Local Government Works Association Conference at the Joondalup Resort. As a contributing sponsor for the event, we had an active presence over the three days.

On day one, we kicked off the conference with a round of golf, with myself, Anthony, Serpo and James putting ourselves forward for the KEE Team. Day two and three our oversized stand provided a platform for engaging discussions with local government representatives and industry experts. We shared valuable insights, exchanged knowledge, and discussed our experiences in the industry.

Inspiration and Success: Highlights from Brad Hogg’s Keynote Speech

We were blessed to have had Brad Hogg, (pictured) the former Australian Test and One Day International cricketer, BBL star player, mental health advocate, Lifeline Ambassador, and board member of WACA as our guest speaker.

Brad’s inspiring presentation took us on a journey through his life, highlighting his remarkable rise, fall, and ultimate comeback in the world of cricket. His talk touched on topics such as overcoming adversity, effective leadership, teamwork, and the importance of preparation for success. A great time was had by all, and we are looking forward to supporting this fantastic event next year.

In addition to our active participation at the conference, we are excited to say that our new mobile asphalt supply has been very successful over the past few months. This addition complements our existing services, which include asphalt laying, paver-laid base course, profiling, and spray seal. With these offerings, we are well-equipped to assist local governments with all their surfacing needs.

Teokotai (Bumpy) Samuel, KEE Surfacing Manager  Connect with me