But for truck drivers, time delays have a dollar value.

JW Express operator George Wolstenholme said yesterday the issue was one affecting the city’s transport industry.

His message was part of Truck Week, being marked across Australia with a range of events run by trucking companies.

Maitland Mayor Peter Blackmore was invited to the company’s Thornton headquarters yesterday where he experienced the city’s roads as a truck driver, perched up high in the cab of a 19m semi-trailer.

Mr Wolstenholme said the Australian Trucking Association organised the week to invite politicians from all levels of government to “see some of the issues we’re dealing with”.

The association works in conjunction with the government on issues ranging from fatigue management programs to the provision of rest areas.

“In our region, we want to see dual carriageways expanded on the Pacific Highway and the New England Highway with the bypass to Branxton,” Mr Wolstenholme said.

“A big issue for us is the connection from the New England Highway to F3.

“At certain times of the day, it’s gridlocked.

“We do minimise the trips at these certain times and I think all transport operators would do the same.”

JW Express’s 13-truck fleet and 15 employees deliver fresh food to supermarkets across the region.

Cr Blackmore said it was an important contribution to the economy, but the week also highlighted the trucking industry as road users.

“This week gives us a better understanding of the safety and maintenance standards in the industry,” he said.

Association chairman Trevor Martyn said the industry had made “massive gains” in safety, environmental impact and efficiency in the past 20 years.

“And with our freight task expected to double in the next 20 years, the Australian trucking industry is continuing to improve how we do business,” he said.