View from the Cab · 19 October 2026
The CRC proposal is in, committees are launching and ALRTA keeps moving. Here's this week's news.
Last week there were plenty of opportunities to catch up with industry and keep things moving across ALRTA.
I attended the Technical and Maintenance Conference (TMC), where it was good to see familiar faces, make new connections and hear what is happening across the sector. There is always value in getting together and talking through the challenges and ideas people are working on.
I also caught up with BP and Cummins, two of our valued sponsors who continue to show real enthusiasm for our industry and offer genuine support for ALRTA's work. We are fortunate to have partners who take such a strong interest in our members and the future of our sector. Thank you to both teams.
I met with Mark Elliott from Collabforge, who brought together the CRC project proposal. Fingers crossed we hear some positive news soon.
Under the proposal, ALRTA will lead a national research and pilot project to improve livestock effluent disposal, grain washouts and truck wash infrastructure along agricultural freight routes. This has the potential to be groundbreaking for our industry, tackling practical challenges that operators have faced for years while supporting animal welfare, biosecurity and more productive freight movements.
Mark is keen to bring all contributors together soon, regardless of the outcome. That is a welcome approach, as there is a lot of knowledge and commitment around the table and every reason to keep working together.
Sam and I sat down with Russell Borchard and Alina Hawkins from LRTAV to plan for next year's conference and talk through Victorian and national issues affecting our sector.
These conversations are an important part of keeping us connected and making sure our national priorities reflect what members are experiencing on the ground. It was a productive catch-up, with plenty to follow through on.
The Rural Carrier Committee kicked off last week, and I want to thank everyone who joined and shared their experience. Rural carriers are a vital part of our agricultural supply chains, and this committee will help keep their needs front and centre in ALRTA's work.
The PBS and Finance Committees will also launch this week, steadily bringing more people and their expertise into the work of the Association.
There is plenty to do, but good progress is being made. Thank you to everyone giving their time, ideas and support to help move things forward.
Byrne Trailers acknowledges the life and lasting contribution of Gavin O'Sullivan, a true pioneer of Australia's livestock transport industry.
From starting O'Sullivan's Livestock Transport with one truck in Elmore in 1969, Gavin went on to build one of Australia's largest dedicated livestock transport businesses. His influence, however, extended well beyond his own operation.
Gavin played an important role in establishing a strong voice for operators, championing key industry issues and working to improve conditions for livestock transporters across Australia. His contribution was recognised with honorary life membership of the ALRTA in 2022.
For Byrne Trailers, Gavin was not only a valued and loyal supporter of our business, but also a friend. We are deeply saddened by his passing and grateful for the many years of support, friendship, and connection we shared with Gavin and the O'Sullivan family. He will be sadly missed and never forgotten.
Byrne Trailers is proud to acknowledge Gavin O'Sullivan and his significant contribution to the livestock transport industry.