Road safety and issues affecting the heavy vehicle industry will be the focus of the upcoming 2026 Orange and Cabonne Heavy Vehicle Forum.
The guest speakers for the event have been finalised, with several industry leaders and regulators keen to share their knowledge of safety, compliance, emerging technology and industry reforms.
The one-day forum will be held from 9am on Wednesday 18 November 2026 at the Orange Civic Centre and will explore key issues affecting the heavy vehicle and freight transport sector in regional NSW.
Hosted by Orange City Council and Cabonne Council, the forum will provide an opportunity for discussion, learning and networking.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto said the event would provide a valuable opportunity for people across the transport industry to hear directly from leading voices in the sector.
"Whether you're an owner-driver, fleet operator, industry representative or work in the broader freight sector, this forum offers practical information and insights that can help businesses navigate a rapidly changing industry," Cr Mileto said.
"The freight industry is the backbone of regional Australia and forums like this give us the opportunity to share knowledge, discuss challenges and work together to shape the future of road transport, and improve safety and productivity across the sector."
The guest speakers for the forum are:
- Glyn Castanelli, National President of the National Road Freighters Association, who will discuss TruckSafe, the industry's safety management system designed to improve compliance and professionalism.
- Paul Fellows, Chair of NatRoad, who will introduce the innovative Truckie First Aid course. The training recognises the critical role truck drivers can play as first responders at crash scenes and highlights how first aid knowledge can save lives.
- Shane Pendergast from Air Brake Systems, who will explain how digital airbrake technology is helping operators monitor vehicle performance, identify safety risks and make informed maintenance decisions.
- A presentation from the National Road Freighters Association examining sham contracting and its impacts on professional drivers, owner-drivers and transport businesses.
- Representatives from the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and NSW Police Highway Patrol, who will provide updates on compliance requirements, enforcement priorities and current road safety issues.
People wishing to attend the Orange and Cabonne Heavy Vehicle Forum can register via the Orange City Council website here.
Participants can attend in person or join via videolink.
