The COVID-19 pandemic may have sidelined in-person conferences, expos and trade events, but the Australian Trucking Association has come up with a pretty neat alternative: a free online industry event.
The ATA LIVE event will be held from 12:00pm on Wednesday, September 23, and will bring together a wide range of industry experts to offer insights into all the pertinent issues facing the road freight industry today.
"Delivered in an innovative broadcast format, ATA Live will connect and engage the trucking industry, showcasing industry stories, special interest pieces and exclusive interviews," said ATA CEO Ben Maguire.
Hosted by Sunrise's Mark Beretta, ATA Live will feature special interest industry stories and exclusive interviews from ATA partners and programs, followed by an interactive Q&A segment and the delivery of the 2020 National Trucking Industry Awards.
"While we were unable to hold our Trucking Australia conference as planned in April, our sponsors and partners have continued their support and allowed us to deliver this new, dynamic online event," Mr Maguire said.
"2020 has been a tough year for the trucking industry. With the support of our sponsors and partners we are committed to showcasing what makes our industry great and celebrating our achievements with an event that is accessible to anybody, no matter where they are located."
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Mr Maguire said ATA LIVE is a free event that will showcase never-before-seen segments as well as industry favourites.
"ATA LIVE will reveal the winners of the 2020 National Trucking Industry Awards and the 2020 Kenworth Legends, as well as showcasing participants in the Daimler Truck and Bus Future Leaders' Forum.
"We are excited for the return of Trucking Q&A with Tony Jones, an opportunity for industry to have their say on the issues that matter and put their questions to our expert panel.
"Now more than ever, the trucking industry needs to be supported and recognised for its hard work," he said.
ATA Partnerships and Events Director Dean Seeley said ATA LIVE provides a unique opportunity to connect a broader audience.
"Being unable to deliver events in the usual format has given us the chance to explore a range of alternatives and exciting ideas," Mr Seeley said.
"With the support of our sponsors and dedicated team we are able to deliver this dynamic program.
"Delivering a free, online event allows more people in our industry to connect and interact in a way they may never have been able to before."
Registration for ATA LIVE opens soon; click here for more information.