2024 Conference
Trucking at the crossroads of change
Our 2024 conference and awards delivered record numbers of over 230 attendees with a remarkable list of speakers, members, sponsors and award winners. With a focus on the future of the industry, it was a comprehensive exploration of the most promising innovations and pressing challenges facing our members.
Speaker Summary
With a focus on innovation and the future of the industry, we heard from politicians on the coalface of policy decisions and partners who were at the forefront of industry innovation. We heard from NSW Ministers John Graham & Jenny Aitchison on pertinent road issues while Federal Senator Glenn Sterle helped MC the day alongside the ATA’s Mathew Munro. Aaron Smith from H2ec spoke on how they are converting engines to dual fuel systems using hydrogen, while Greg Larkin from iCare provided an important update on the recent premium increases, with members able to talk directly with iCare to reduce future costs.
Members were treated to a round table discussion hosted by Ann Lopez on the unique challenges operators faced in the current climate while Chairman Austin Vella hosted Sal Petroccitto from the NHVR for a fireside chat.
Award Winners
Cauchi
James Cauchi has established a respected career in the freight and logistics industry, with a wealth of experience and an impressive array of skills. He obtained his heavy vehicle licence in 1998 and has maintained a near-perfect driving record, with no infringements over the past decade. His attention to detail, pride in his appearance and the condition of his vehicle are always exemplary. Remarkably, James consistently scores above 95% fuel efficiency each week in Volvo Connect, putting him in the top percentile globally for all Volvo drivers.
Hannah
Noah may only turn 21 this year but has been around the industry for many years. Initially working at Volvo trucks as an Apprentice Motor Mechanic, Noah recently re-joined the family business, Hannah’s Haulage in their operations department. Initially managing the smaller recycling container department, he has since progressed to the Dangerous Goods department, running training courses for drivers and emergency response drills. Always available and on call, Noah has also begun attending industry round tables to advocate for a more sustainable future for the road freight industry.
Caldwell-Smith
A well known figure in the transport and logistics industry, Di is a passionate advocate for inclusion and diversity. With over 40 years’ experience and a long history in transport, she is highly regarded as a subject matter expert, having a deep knowledge in corporations law, legislation and compliance, superannuation and related insurance. Di has been a working director of TWAL for many years and has consistently worked hard to promote the industry, directly contributing to the growth, improvement and diversity of the industry.
Haulage & Transport
The founders of Carter Heavy Haulage & Transport, Joshua and Leonnie Carter and their leadership team, have been unwavering in their commitment to safety. They are directly involved in safety training sessions, workshops and safety audits and have made substantial investments in state-of-the-art safety technology and equipment. These efforts have resulted in an environment where safety concerns can always be freely reported and swiftly addressed.
Poihipi
Billie-Jean became a truck driver after being inspired by other female drivers on social media. This is Billie-Jean’s 2nd year of driving, and in that time, she has progressed from a HR to a 
HC licence and has since upgraded further into a manual licence. With a love of learning, a can-do attitude and a commitment to 1% improvements, Billie-Jean is mastering the art of driving a truck & dog in Greater Sydney.
Downey
Paul has been involved in the transport industry for much of his working life. Throughout this time he has continually advocated for issues relevant to the road freight industry, particularly in the container sector. An experienced operator with Trojan Transport, Paul is a long-standing member of the RFNSW Policy council and has been a valued spokesperson on issues pertaining to freight reform, PBLIS and vehicle access over many years.
Transport hub
The CSR hub team has shown a great growth mindset and teamwork in the implementation of their new Transport Management System, investing their heart and soul into permanently changing the way CSR’s national transport operations work. In doing so they have created improved delivery solutions for their customers, added value to our shareholders and delivered benefits of over $5m this year.
