Livestock, News

Livestock trucks begin using Melbourne’s CityLink tunnels in new trial

Livestock trucks have now been given access to Melbourne’s Burnley and Domain tunnels, as part of a 12-month trial that commenced on January 1, 2025.

The trial was announced back in September and has since come into effect, as part of a move to help remove these trucks from Southbank streets.

The Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Victoria (LRTAV) has worked extensively with the Victorian Government, Transurban and the City of Melbourne to help bring this trial to fruition – to create a more efficient and safer road network for livestock transportation through Melbourne.

“This initiative is designed to address key challenges faced by livestock drivers, offering benefits in animal welfare, time management, and reducing the stress and hazards associated with navigating inner-city roads,” said LRTAV.

The peak Victorian livestock association says the move will help improve animal welfare by providing a faster, less disruptive journey; will help boost efficiency by streamlining routes, helping to save time, especially during peak traffic times; and will assist in reducing driver stress, by allowing them to avoid congested city roads.

There will however be several restrictions in place for livestock truckies using the route – and the LRTAV is calling on drivers to do the right thing to help ensure the trial’s success.

These restrictions include detouring if your vehicle triggers the over-height warning lights; emptying effluent tanks as thoroughly as possible before entering the tunnels; trailers will need to abide by catwalk requirements; and there are some restrictions on animals permitted in the trial. Further details can be seen in the below graphic:

Several restrictions will be in place during the trial. Image: LRTAV

“This trial marks a significant step forward in modernising livestock transportation in Victoria,” said LRTAV. “By demonstrating responsibility and adherence to the rules, the industry can work toward broader access to CityLink and other key road networks, benefiting both drivers and livestock alike.

“We are excited to see how this trial unfolds and look forward to continuing our collaboration with government and industry stakeholders to improve road access for livestock vehicles.”

1 Comment

  1. I was riding my bike behind a cattle truck through the Burnley tunnel last October. They clearly didn’t empty the effluent tanks prior. I had to pull over to wipe the sh!t and piss off my visor to even see. Both me and my bike smelt like a cattle farm for a week.
    Please empty your effluent tanks. It makes a difference to everyone.

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