New Board members appointed to heavy vehicle regulator

Two new members have been appointed to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) Board.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said current NHVR Board Deputy Chair Peter Garske and Board member Coral Taylor would retire this month.

“Julie Russell and Catherine Scott will replace Mr Garske and Ms Taylor when their appointments end,” Mr McCormack said.

“Ministers have unanimously agreed Ms Russell and Ms Scott should be appointed to the Board.

“A staggered approach to board appointments was instituted last year to provide a smooth transition for new membership.

“Duncan Gay will continue on as NHVR Board Chair, as will Board members Ken Lay and Robin Stewart-Crompton.”

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said both Ms Russell and Ms Scott were highly respected within the heavy vehicle transport and logistics industry, bringing with them a wealth of experience.

“Ms Russell was named Queensland Trucking Association Woman of the Year in 2014 and National Trucking Industry Woman of the Year in 2015,” Mr Buchholz said.

“She is a third-generation member of a Queensland based trucking company.

“Her commitment to road transport reform was recognised when she was appointed to the Australian Trucking Association (ATA) Board in April and an ongoing role as chair of the ATA's Industry Skills and Workforce Committee.

“Catherine Scott's career combines experience in transport, infrastructure, and natural resources.

“With expertise in risk management and corporate governance, Ms Scott has been Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee of the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator since 2012.”

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey thanked Peter Garske and Coral Taylor for their years of service.

“I would like to thank Mr Garske and Ms Taylor for their six years of exemplary service,” Mr Bailey said.

“Mr Garske and Ms Taylor were foundation board members, with Mr Garske later accepting the Deputy Chair role.

“Mr Garske's experience and in-depth industry knowledge have been invaluable. His influence was critical in helping the NHVR progress regulatory reform, benefitting the heavy vehicle transport industry.

“I would also like to thank Ms Taylor for her industry advocacy and guidance to the Board and the NHVR.”