A group of Arc employees attended the 2024 Heavy Haul conference held at Crown Perth on 13-14 March.
The group spent the two days attending presentations and technical workshops, including the Rail Turnouts Workshop which was hosted the day before.
Bringing together key decision makers, the program showcased the best in local and international project expertise, giving attendees an understanding of the strategic directions of major players together with critical industry and market updates to ensure efficient, safe and reliable operations.
Keynote speakers included Federal Minister for infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Hon Catherine King MP and Meredith Hammat (Parliamentary Secretary) who spoke on behalf of WA Deputy Premier, Treasurer, Minister for Transport; Tourism Hon Rita Saffioti MLA.
Asset Management and Long Term Planning Lead Rob Kirby said there was a strong emphasis on safety culture in the presentations he attended.
“The ATSB presentation highlighted the importance of fatigue management in the rail industry and many other industries,” he said.
Arc also supported the conference by hosting a demonstration of the Hiivr Rail autonomous wagon prototype at the Kenwick Freight Rail Facility for 15 attendees, including representatives from RISSB, Vossloh Australia, and Chief Executive Officer of the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) Dr Natalie Pelham.
Head of Development Simon Gilders hosted the group, providing an overview of the concept and introduction to the wagon before commencing the demonstration.
Simon said there was growing interest and excitement about the Hiivr concept.
“It was a great opportunity for interstate industry leaders and experts to have the opportunity to see the wagon in person, as part of the conference program.
“Thank you to the conference organisers and attendees for joining us at Kenwick,” Mr Gilders said.
Arc Infrastructure unveiled the Hiivr Rail autonomous wagon in December 2023. Mr Gilders is attending the ARA Freight Rail Conference in Sydney on 9-10 April, where he will present on this unique innovation in the Australian rail industry.
