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Nan & Pop's Tucker Box Closes Due to Tax Burden Nan & Pop’s Tucker Box, a popular food van recently opened at Yaamba Rest Area by Peter and Joanne Dehaas, has shut down just eight weeks after starting. Despite initial success and positive customer feedback, the couple faced an unexpected $10,000 tax bill, making it unsustainable to continue. Having invested about $60,000 in the venture, the closure is a significant setback for them. Peter, a veteran truckie, now plans to return to driving. The couple is seeking a local buyer for the van, highlighting the advantages of existing permits and readiness to operate. Customers expressed their disappointment and support on social media. Volvo Trucks Australia, in collaboration with Wodonga TAFE, has initiated the "Iron Women" program to train and license female drivers for the road transport sector. This pilot program is designed to attract women from various backgrounds to the industry, with 11 candidates across five companies and three states participating. The training includes a 3-module course covering driver training essentials and a heavy rigid (HR) license, followed by on-the-job experience leading to a heavy combination (HC) license test. The program aims to address the skill shortage in the industry and challenge traditional driver stereotypes, promoting diversity in the transport sector. Fans of the TV series "Outback Truckers" can rejoice as Season 10 has been officially announced. Following a hiatus since its last season in 2021, Prospero Productions confirmed that filming is set to begin immediately. Although the show faced challenges after the Discovery Channel ended its deal, 7mate has stepped in to support the new season. Julia Redwood, the managing director at Prospero Productions, expressed relief and excitement about the upcoming season, which will include 13 one-hour episodes. Despite the late start of filming, the team is eager to capture as many stories as possible, particularly in the northern part of Australia, before Christmas. Filming is expected to continue into the new year, with the season not airing for about a year. The new season will feature both returning fan-favorites and fresh faces, with the production actively seeking cast members. The show, known for its observational style, will continue to focus on the compelling stories of truck drivers, including those inspired by previous seasons to pursue trucking careers. Redwood highlighted their interest in capturing diverse and engaging stories featuring great drivers, challenging routes, and extraordinary cargo, representing the entire continent of Australia. She also encouraged viewers to nominate themselves or someone they know who embodies the spirit and challenges of the trucking industry. The Townsville Ring Road Stage 5, part of the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, has been officially opened, marking a major development in Queensland's infrastructure. Costing $280 million, this project commenced in mid-2021 and has now completed six kilometres of highway duplication, including a new interchange at Beck Drive, four bridges and overpasses, and upgrades to several other interchanges. This development not only enhances road safety and capacity but also boosts flood resilience along the 1,677-kilometre Bruce Highway. Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, who inaugurated the road along with Transport Minister Mark Bailey, highlighted the project's role in job creation, supporting over 400 jobs and improving daily travel for over 17,000 drivers. The upgrade is key to accommodating Townsville's growth, enhancing travel times, and supporting housing and economic opportunities in the region. The project, which saw 22,000 tonnes of asphalt laid, also includes improvements to pedestrian and bicycle facilities.