NT waste fleet solving the difficult problems

While everyone wants to recycle responsibly, sometimes it can be hard to know what to do with waste and where it should go. Thankfully, there are companies whose dedication to the environment extends to helping others determine their role and how best to play it.  

VTG Waste & Recycling is a specialist waste outfit based in the Northern Territory that is providing a range of recycling and environmentally conscious solutions. 

They offer services from recycling and commercial waste disposal through to handling hazardous waste, construction and manufacturing waste, medical and e-waste and much more—all with the help of a diverse medium-and heavy-duty fleet of Isuzu trucks.

“When someone’s got a hard problem, we help find a solution,” said James Prakash, Managing Director of VTG Waste & Recycling.

James goes on to explain that a huge amount of improperly discarded waste exists simply because people aren’t equipped with the knowledge of what needs to be done.  

“A lot of things get put in the too-hard basket, particularly when it comes to environmental solutions.

“If there’s some sort of contamination, we love to help find the right fix and provide the whole service including collection and disposal.”

As regular customers at CJD Isuzu in Darwin, VTG are supported by CJD Area Manager Ed Hayden, who has assisted with recent purchases of Isuzu FYJ 300-350 8×4 trucks with Allison auto transmission, and a FVD 165-300 to bolster their transport fleet.  

Operating in the environmental conditions of the Northern Territory presents a unique challenge for any business, and in the punishing game of waste and resource recovery, equipment and vehicles need to be rock solid.

James—who came to the VTG business armed with valuable experience assembling fleets—said that Isuzu Trucks has proven to be an excellent brand match for the business. 

He noted that the trucks were performing well in the changeable extremes of the Northern Territory, be that the weather or variable road conditions. 

“We currently have 14 Isuzu trucks and another three on order, so we’ll have 17 by the end of the year… we’re trying to get to the point where we run exclusively Isuzu.

“We find Isuzu is best suited to our environment and needs, particularly the tough conditions of the Top End where we have two seasons, wet and dry, and a whole lot of humidity to consider. 

“Some of our other trucks tend to end up with all sorts of issues with sensors in particular, but Isuzu trucks seem to be able to handle it all. 

“They’re reliable, easy to use and easy to work on, and you know they just keep going.” 

There are certainly no doubts surrounding the suitability of the new FYJ 300-350s for the task. The heavy-duty trucks clock in with a GVM of 30,000 kg (28,000-kg on-road legal limit) and hefty GCM of 45,000 kg which offers VTG a big payload, translating to fewer trips and better efficiency for the business.

A twin-steer front axle that supports load-sharing, six-speed Allison auto transmission and an ISRI 6860/875 air suspension driver’s seat make for a comfortable experience up in the cab for VTG drivers. 

The rugged 8×4 platform is also underpinned by Isuzu’s powerful six-cylinder 6UZ1-TCN engine which hits max power at 257 kW (350 PS) at 2,000 rpm and offers 1,422 Nm of torque at 1,400 rpm, meaning they have no concerns over the trucks’ capacity to pull large loads up hills. 

The full fleet line-up is an impressive sight with each truck customised in a one-of-a-kind colour scheme simply known as VTG Green. They’ve become a cheerful and welcome sight on their rounds visiting customers about the Top End. 

With the VTG team having come together from all across the waste industry, James said their goal is create a community-minded business that treats its staff and clients with respect. 

This includes not only disposing of waste in a sustainable and environmentally ethical way but also providing advice and guidance for those struggling to find the right methods and encouraging ways to implement green protocols.  

James quotes a formula of common vision, great service and sensible advice, backed by reliable equipment as a marker for their success. 

“It really all flows back to the customer—no matter what your position is on the team, it’s all about providing great service for the customer. 

“When the whole team have the same goals, that’s when we’re at our absolute best.

“We understand that part of keeping the best employees in the business is giving them the right tools for the job and having Isuzu trucks is a huge part of that,” James continued.

“We’ve been very happy with the product Isuzu provide.”