A truck driver has been charged with six offences following a roadside intercept involving a B-double on Tweed Valley Way at Chinderah in northern New South Wales.
The incident occurred at approximately 10am on March 10, when NSW Police Force officers stopped the vehicle for routine roadside testing and driver checks. The inspection was conducted with assistance from an officer from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).
Work Diary and Compliance Issues Alleged
During the intercept, police allege the driver initially stated he did not have a work diary in the vehicle.
However, officers later located a diary during a search of the truck. Police claim the diary contained entries that indicated breaches of work and rest hour requirements under the Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL).
Authorities say the vehicle was allegedly being operated in contravention of required standards at the time of the stop.
Drug and Police Obstruction Allegations
According to police, the situation escalated when officers attempted to search the driver’s bag.
The driver allegedly refused to release the bag, resulting in a struggle before he was arrested a short time later.
During the search, police claim they located a pipe and approximately one gram of a substance believed to be methamphetamine.
The driver was taken to Tweed Heads Police Station, where he underwent a breath test that returned a negative result.
However, an oral fluid test allegedly returned a positive indication for methamphetamine, and a second sample was collected for laboratory analysis.
Charges Laid
Police have charged the driver with six offences, including:
- Making a false or misleading statement to an official
- Failing to record required information in a work diary after starting work
- Exceeding standard work hours as a solo driver (minor risk)
- Hindering or resisting a police officer in the execution of duty (two counts)
- Possessing a prohibited drug
The driver was also issued a 24-hour driving prohibition notice.
Court Appearance Scheduled
The driver was granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear before Tweed Heads Local Court on April 13, 2026.
Authorities have confirmed the NHVR assisted during the intercept, with additional police support requested due to the driver’s alleged conduct during the inspection.
Compliance Matters for Drivers and Operators
Incidents like this highlight the importance of maintaining compliance with fatigue laws, work diary requirements, and drug and alcohol regulations.
For drivers and operators, key areas of focus include:
- Keeping work diaries accurate and up to date
- Staying within legal work and rest hour limits
- Ensuring vehicles and documentation meet compliance standards
- Maintaining a zero-tolerance approach to drugs and alcohol on the road
At Logbook Checker, we regularly highlight incidents like this as a reminder that fatigue management and accurate record-keeping are not just regulatory requirements. They are essential for safety, professionalism, and protecting both drivers and operators across the industry.