The Australian Livestock & Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA) has announced Executive Director Rachel Smith has stepped down from the role following two years of leading the organisation during a transformational period for the industry.
ALRTA President Gerard Johnson praised Smith’s tenure in the role, and for constantly striving to improve the industry during her tenure.
“As Executive Director, Ms Smith was an influential and strong voice for livestock operators representing the industry to stakeholders and government,” Johnson says.
“Ms Smith was instrumental in achieving exemptions for livestock transporters under the Fair Work Legislation Amendment Bill, supporting WA members in the Keep the Sheep campaign, participating in the National Agricultural Rally which saw thousands of rural operators descend on Canberra, through to lobbying for increased funding for the Bruce Highway and introducing a new digital era for the ALRTA.”
Smith says she leaves the ALRTA as a trusted and credible industry body with the ability to pursue its values in the broader Australian political landscape.
“I thank all members for their steadfast support over the past 18 months as we’ve worked tirelessly to influence positive change and ensure industry concerns are heard at all levels of government and within the community,” Smith says.
“Together we have strengthened the reputation of the ALRTA as a credible and trusted peak industry body.
“The ALRTA has an important role to play in helping set the political agenda as we head into the federal election.”
Former Director of Boyle’s Livestock Transport Anthony Boyle has been appointed Interim Executive Director.
He has praised Smith’s contributions to the industry.
“Rachel departs us with our utmost thanks and her unwavering commitment, passion, enthusiasm and motivation will be hugely missed,” Boyle says.
“On behalf of the council of the ALRTA, I would like to pass on our best wishes to Rachel who has overseen a huge transition period for the ALTRA.”
The ALRTA will hold its National Conference on April 4 and 5 in Canberra later this year.
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