BUSINESSES and individuals from shipping and logistics were well represented among the winners at the 30th Anniversary Australian Freight Industry Awards, held at Crown Palladium in Melbourne on Saturday night.
Around 700 people attended the event with the winners being:
• Chas Kelly, Personality of the Year Award – sponsored Transport for Victoria;
• Clare Cianchino, Swire Mining – Logistics – Industrial (Kalari Division), Female Leadership Award – sponsored by Viva Energy Australia;
• Ivan Vanis, Tasman Logistics Services Pty Ltd, Young Achiever of the Year Award – sponsored by Daimler Truck & Bus;
• Alex Fraser Group, Sustainable Environment Award – sponsored by National Transport Insurance;
• Visa Global Logistics Pty Ltd, Application of Technology Award – sponsored by Transport Certification Australia;
• Packaged Dangerous Goods Pty Ltd, Best Practice Safety Award – sponsored by CMV Truck & Bus; and
• K & S Corporation, Investment in People Award – sponsored by Logical Staffing Solutions.
Former VTA executive director Phil Lovel, who helped develop the AFIA concept in 1989, gave a short speech reflected on 30-years of the awards.
“There was no internet. There were no mobile phones. Boy, were we primitive, but we did create the Australian Freight Industry Awards,” Mr Lovel said.
VTA chief executive Peter Anderson with the help of MC Lavinia Nixon, then announced the winners, who were presented with their award by VTA president Cameron Dunn and ports and freight minister Melissa Horne.
“Every one of our winners and finalists should be proud of their accomplishments, which go a long way towards attaining the original vision of the awards in lifting the profile and professionalism of our great industry,” Mr Anderson said.
VTA president Cameron Dunn said the past year had been a busy time and there was much to accomplish in the future.
“We’re working hard to address driver shortages that are putting pressure on operators, which is why we were so thrilled that the Victorian government is making further investments in the VTA Driver Delivery program,” Mr Dunn said.
Entertainment came in the form of Queen Forever – a Queen tribute bands, supported by Melbourne DJ Emma and dance troupe the LFK Industry Squad.
In other awards news, Daily Cargo News will host the Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry Awards at the Plaza Ballroom in Melbourne on 14 November.
Nominations are open now and people are encouraged to lodge entries.
