Each year, the Australian Freight Industry Awards (AFIAs) offer a powerful reminder of the extraordinary people and organisations that make our freight and logistics sector one of the most dynamic and essential in the country.
This year’s 35th annual celebration, held at Melbourne’s Crown Palladium, was no exception.
It was a night of pride, recognition, and reflection – a moment to honour those who go above and beyond to keep Australia moving.
As I stood before hundreds of industry professionals, I was struck by the sheer scale of talent, innovation, and commitment in the room.
From ports to paddocks, our sector is the engine room of the economy. Every day, freight and logistics professionals deliver goods, connect businesses, and support livelihoods. Yet, too often, their work goes unseen.
The AFIAs bring that work front and centre, celebrating not just success, but the spirit of resilience and ingenuity that defines our industry.
This year’s winners exemplify that spirit. The Hon. Duncan Gay AM was named Personality of the Year, a fitting tribute to his enduring influence and leadership.
Mariella Teuira of Peter Sadler Removals and Logistics received the Women’s Leadership Award, highlighting the growing strength and visibility of female leaders in our sector. Jack Di Losa from Cold Xpress was honoured as Emerging Leader, representing the next generation of freight professionals who are already making their mark.
Safety, technology, and sustainability were also key themes. DHL Supply Chain Australia took home the Best Practice Safety Award, reinforcing the importance of protecting our people and operations.
Wettenhalls earned the Application of Technology Award for their forward-thinking approach to digital transformation. Brooklyn Recycling Group was recognised with the Greenstart Sustainability Award, while TOMRA Cleanaway was named Waste and Recycling Business of the Year – both demonstrating how environmental responsibility is becoming central to freight operations.
Linfox’s win in the Investment in People category was particularly meaningful. It reflects a broader trend across the industry: organisations are investing in their teams, nurturing talent, and building cultures of excellence.
This year saw a record number of entries across all categories, a testament to the pride and ambition driving our sector forward.
These awards are not just about trophies. They are about fostering a culture of recognition and progress.
When we celebrate excellence, we inspire others to innovate, collaborate, and lead. We create role models and raise the bar. We remind ourselves – and the broader community –that freight and logistics are not just vital, but visionary.
AFIA Chair Dennis Ryan captured this sentiment perfectly when he said, “Recognising achievement inspires progress.”
I couldn’t agree more. Strong industry associations like the VTA provide a trusted platform for collaboration, where operators, suppliers, and regulators come together to solve shared challenges and influence meaningful change. The AFIAs are a cornerstone of that mission.
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our finalists and winners. Your achievements reflect the best of what our industry has to offer.
I also thank our major event supporters – Team Super and Viva Energy Australia – for their continued commitment to making this celebration possible.
As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, let us continue to honour excellence – not just once a year, but every day.
Let us champion innovation, invest in our people, and lead with purpose. Because when we celebrate our industry’s best, we strengthen the entire freight and logistics community – and that benefits all Australians.
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Peter Anderson is CEO, Victorian Transport Association