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Johnson takes the LRTAQ presidential reins

New president elected at the association’s AGM in Rockhampton

 

Tambo operator Gerard Johnson is the new president of the Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Queensland (LRTAQ), replacing Ian Wild.

LRTAQ notes Johnson “is no stranger to the organisation” as the son of inaugural vice president Brendan Johnson, who along with other notable industry members formed the association in Roma in 1981.

Johnson pledges to be a strong voice for Queensland livestock and rural transporters in the current Covid-19 climate.

“More than ever the critical role that livestock transporters play in the food supply chain is being realised by the community and government,” Johnson says.

“I plan on being a strong voice of reason at the table for sensible and consistent regulation of our industry.

“Driver and animal welfare, safety, better infrastructure and the reduction of unnecessary red-tape is at the forefront of our advocacy efforts, and we’d encourage transporters who are interested in advancing our industry to join us and make their voice heard.”


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The change was made following the retirement of outgoing president Ian Wild, who steered the LRTAQ over the last four years.

“Ian has been a strong advocate for the viability, sustainability and efficiency of the livestock and rural transport industry and is widely respected for his efforts,” Johnson says.

Johnson also announced the appointment of Laney O’Neil as the new secretariat manager, based in Roma.

O’Neil comes to the LRTAQ from a senior communications role at Meat and Livestock Australia and has a background in campaign management and advocacy in both Canberra and Brisbane.

“We’re excited to have Laney join the association, her skills and experience will be put to good use in serving our membership and advancing our interests.”

Gerard Johnson is joined by Mark Collins (Frasers Livestock Transport), John Rogers (Road Trains of Australia), Gary Willoughby (Willoughby Livestock Transport) and Ron Pattel (Pattel’s Collinsville Transport) on the new LRTAQ Executive.

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) paid tribute to Wild and welcomed the incumbent president.

“Congratulations to Gerard Johnson on your new role as President of the Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Queensland. We look forward to working with you into the future for a safer, more productive livestock transport industry.

“A sincere thank you from the NHVR to outgoing LRTAQ President Ian Wild for your very significant contributions to the industry over the past four years. All the best for your future endeavours.”

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