Watson elected ATA Chair

At its AGM in Canberra, the Australia Trucking Association has elected Noelene Watson as its new Chair

The Australian Trucking Association has a new Chair, with Australia’s peak representative trucking body recently electing Noelene Watson (pictured) to the role at its annual general meeting in Canberra.

Watson brings with her an enviable CV. The Managing Director of leading refrigerated road freight firm Don Watson Transport, she has also served as an ATA Director since 2004 and previously was a Director and Treasurer for NatRoad, an ATA member association.

Watson said truck driver health would be one of her big priorities in the new role.

“I want to promote better health and wellbeing for our drivers in the transport industry and especially the support services available to them,” she said.

“Our drivers are away from home for so much time that they don’t have access to all the services that should be made available to them.

“I’d also like to see drivers treated in a professional manner while fulfilling their transport tasks. This is a big issue for our drivers on the road. They quite often aren’t treated professionally and it then reflects back on our own businesses, and it’s left to operators to deal with this.

“I’d like to promote a more professional perception of the transport industry to the public, and work with member organisations to achieve our common goals.”

Watson has thanked the outgoing Chairman of the ATA, David Simon, for his efforts over the last four years.

“David has worked tirelessly with the NHVR, the NTC and politicians on behalf of transport operators and the ATA,” she said.

“He’s been a marvellous public face for our industry. David’s easy-going manner and his intellect on all transport-related issues have meant David’s counsel has been sought and respected by many of his peers.

“David’s passion for the ATA is evident in the amount of meetings he’s attended, the miles he’s travelled, and the time he’s spent away from his family on behalf of our industry.”

The ATA also elected Andrew Garrety, President of the Australian Furniture Removers Association, as its new Treasurer/Secretary in the wake of Kathy Williams’s retirement, and appointed two new Directors, Austin Vella and Gordon Martin.

WA’s Mark Sullivan announced his retirement from the ATA board but he will retain the role of Chair of the ATA Safety Committee.

Kathy Williams, Mike Almond AM, Andrew Garrety and Trevor Martyn were re-elected unopposed as ATA Directors.

Watson elected ATA Chair

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