Staying ahead on the road

The event opens with a gala dinner on Thursday, September 11 at the Museum of Vehicle Evolution, where guests will dine among an impressive collection of trucks, cars and motorcycles.

A full day of conference sessions follows on Friday, focusing on the challenges and opportunities facing road freight operators.

NatRoad chair and Deniliquin operator Paul Fellows said Shepparton was a natural choice to host this year’s event.

“Shepparton is the heartland of transport — one in four trucks are registered to this region in the Goulburn Valley,” Mr Fellows said.

“NatRoad itself began here in 1948, and Sam Sali, a Shepparton local and passionate champion of the transport industry, was one of our founding fathers. That’s why our National Young Driver of the Year award is named in his honour.”

The conference program will deliver practical advice on issues such as wage pressures, staffing shortages and insurance risks.

Presenters include the Australian Tax Office, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, VicRoads, industry lawyers and NatRoad’s HR adviser, Kylie James.

Mr Fellows said the industry was facing significant pressures, but also opportunities.

“Our costs of operation have increased sharply in recent years, and like many businesses we’re struggling with staff shortages,” he said.

“But the freight task is growing alongside the population, and there’s a real chance for young people to enter the industry; mentorship is something I get a lot of enjoyment from — helping the next generation navigate their way.”

Mr Fellows said the conference was about equipping operators with practical knowledge while strengthening industry connections.

“It’s a chance to catch up with old friends, make new ones, and walk away with advice you can apply in your business right now,” Mr Fellows said.

Registrations are open to members and the public. Details can be found at natroad.com.au