Transforming Cold Chain Operations: Americold Positions Itself for Future Growth with Dematic
To maintain its position as a leader in temperature-controlled logistics and meet increasing operational demands, Americold partnered with Dematic to optimise its cold chain operations technology in Australia
To maintain its position as a leader in temperature-controlled logistics and meet increasing operational demands, Americold partnered with Dematic to optimise its cold chain operations technology in Australia. This collaboration has upgraded Americold’s existing Dematic wireless connectivity, Voice-Picking systems, and Radio Frequency (RF) devices with the latest technologies, further boosting efficiencies and productivity while preparing for future growth.
The partnership between Americold and Dematic has been crucial to the success of the upgrade project. Dematic provided on-site support from the initial planning stages through to the final deployment of new technology, and its ongoing involvement has ensured that Americold’s systems continue to operate smoothly.
“Dematic understands our business and brings solutions that are relevant to our needs,” said Aishling O’Brien, Vice President, Information Technology, APAC, Americold Logistics. “They have a wide customer range themselves and are well positioned to tell us what’s happening in the market and where they can see further efficiencies for Americold.”
TAFE SA’s dual qualification in refrigeration and electrical
There have been three graduates from a dual qual refrigeration and electrical trade course that adds a Green Scheme Accreditation. This is the only national accreditation to demonstrate that technicians are qualified to work with low-GWP refrigerants. The combined apprenticeship runs for 5 years.
There have been three graduates from a dual qual refrigeration and electrical trade course that adds a Green Scheme Accreditation. This is the only national accreditation to demonstrate that technicians are qualified to work with low-GWP refrigerants. The combined apprenticeship runs for 5 years, read more below.
The Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) has rewarded the first graduates of South Australia’s new dual-qualification refrigeration and electrical course by providing them with Green Scheme Accreditation to add to their credentials.
The Dual Trade program was developed by TAFE SA, PEER and NECA SA and delivers refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) and electrical training concurrently at TAFE SA Tonsley Campus.
Its first three graduates – Klaus Duthler, Bradley Thompson and Daniel Chellew – were all doing their RAC training when the dual qualification became available. The combined apprenticeship runs for 5 years and require 1,540 hours total study compared to 1,060 for a single trade.
ARC chief executive officer Glenn Evans said TAFE SA’s dual qualification was a great example of training providers changing to suit the needs of industry.
‘This innovative program results in a multi-skilled technician able to perform the full scope of work of both the RAC and electrical disciplines,’ he said.
‘Importantly, it will give RAC technicians the formal qualification to undertake the electrical aspects of their work, confirming the full range of skills they have.
‘Also in step with our changing industry, it includes handling flammable refrigerants, which are becoming ever more prevalent in our industry.
‘This entitles graduates to ARC’s Green Scheme Accreditation, the only national accreditation to demonstrate that technicians are qualified to work with low-GWP refrigerants.
‘ARC congratulates the graduates of this pioneering new course, and is pleased to provide two years of free Green Scheme Accreditation to them.’
… ends …
Media Contact: Greg Shoemark — 0412 577 526
RWTA would like to thank the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) for news release.
New Member Alert: Welcome Tasman Cold Chain Solutions!
A Warm Welcome to Tasman Cold Chain Solutions, New Member of the RWTA! As the latest addition to Tasman Logistics Services' portfolio, Cold Chain Solutions focuses on high-volume clients and non-standard handling requirements.
A Warm Welcome to Tasman Cold Chain Solutions, New Member of the RWTA!
As the latest addition to Tasman Logistics Services' portfolio, Cold Chain Solutions focuses on high-volume clients and non-standard handling requirements. This new division is dedicated to understanding specific cold chain needs and developing customised plans to ensure products remain perfectly chilled from warehouse to store shelf.
Their diverse customer portfolio includes brands requiring specialised handling services for meats, small goods, fresh produce, seafood, and pharmaceuticals.
We’re excited to have Tasman Cold Chain Solutions join the RWTA community and look forward to their contributions to our industry!
Key Contact:
Stan Bearder, Head of Cold Chain Solutions
E: stan.bearder@taslog.com.au
M: 0439 423 459
New Member Alert: Welcome to Ulti Group
We’re excited to welcome Ulti Group and their cutting-edge cold storage solutions to the Australian market!
We’re excited to welcome Ulti Group and their cutting-edge cold storage solutions to the Australian market!
With over 30 years of experience supporting major brands like Fonterra, Woolworths, Talleys, Lineage, Americold and many others, their NZ-made, high-performance doors and dock systems are designed to safeguard the temperature-sensitive assets that matter most to you, ensuring the highest standards of insulation and reliability.
Built for durability and energy efficiency, their tailored solutions boost operational resilience and streamline the cold chain, helping you maintain peak performance, protect your products, and drive profitability—all with the reliability you expect from the industry’s trusted name.
Ulti Group – Protect What Matters!
Contact:
Andrew Suckling
Business Development
andrew@ultigroup.co.nz
+64 21 228 3835
0800 807 753
Welcoming TRS to the RWTA in 2025!
Exciting Addition: TRS Becomes Part of RWTA in 2025! With over 40 years of expertise, TRS is Australia’s leader in refrigerated transport solutions.
Exciting Addition: TRS Becomes Part of RWTA in 2025!
With over 40 years of expertise, TRS is Australia’s leader in refrigerated transport solutions.
They are exclusive suppliers of Thermo King refrigeration units and Anteo Tail-Lifts in NSW and SA, and their revolutionary Thermaxx truck bodies deliver the lowest ‘K’ value in Australia for maximum thermal efficiency.
TRS’s Team consists only of factory-trained technicians, ensuring your equipment gets expert care, every time.
They offer comprehensive services including refrigeration unit and tail lift repairs, truck rentals, and 24/7 roadside assistance.
TRS are committed to keeping your operations moving with reliable, innovative solutions that maximise efficiency and support your success.
For more information, please contact:
Luke Gordon
National Sales Manager
E: luke@trsservice.com.au
M: 0488 050 580
LinkedIn
Confidential Help on Hand 24/7 – Promote the Healthy Heads App
The Healthy Heads App is a resource to provide “help when you need it” as we gear up for peak period in the fast-paced world of transport, warehousing, and logistics.
Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds has developed the Healthy Heads App!
The Healthy Heads App is a resource to provide “help when you need it” as we gear up for peak period in the fast-paced world of transport, warehousing, and logistics.
It is free to download through the App Store and Google Play.
AGL: Solar installation for Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Australia
AGL have a bold and exciting strategy to connect our customers to a sustainable future and are partnering with our large commercial and industrial customers to help them achieve their sustainability goals.
AGL have a bold and exciting strategy to connect our customers to a sustainable future and are partnering with our large commercial and industrial customers to help them achieve their sustainability goals.
Our capability is underpinned by our market leading position as the leading commercial and industrial solar provider in Australia with over 295MW of Solar PV and Battery Energy Storage Solutions installed over the last five years.
AGL has extensive experience delivering large site solar programs in complex operational environments involving multiple stakeholders. We are familiar with the challenges presented in the transport and cold storage space and have established systems and processes to cater specifically for their demands.
Solar installation for Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Australia | AGL. Join the change
Main contact:
Toby Keast
Business Development Manager – Commercial and Strategic Sales
0498 166 105
Tkeast2@agl.com.au
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Study, Cooling Sector
The "Leak Study V3.02" presents a comprehensive analysis of Australia's cooling sector, emphasising its significant environmental and economic impact.
The "Leak Study V3.02" presents a comprehensive analysis of Australia's cooling sector, emphasising its significant environmental and economic impact.
In 2022, the sector employed over 370,000 people and was responsible for using over 66,500 GWh of electricity, equating to 24% of the national output. It also accounted for 12.6% of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions, with indirect emissions from electricity forming 88% of this total.
The study provides detailed projections up to 2036, forecasting a significant decline in high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants like HFC-410A, replaced by lower GWP alternatives such as HFC-32.
The research highlights that, despite improvements in leak rates across various cooling systems, leaks remain a substantial source of emissions, underscoring the need for ongoing regulatory intervention and industry adaptation. It calls for urgent attention to the food cold chain sector to achieve phasedown targets effectively and minimize industry disruption.
This study aims to support stakeholders in making informed decisions to enhance sustainability and efficiency within the cooling economy, reflecting a data-driven approach to environmental stewardship in the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors.
Documentation provided courtesy of Glenn Evans, Chief Executive Officer at the Australian Refrigeration Council.
New Member Alert: Welcome to Vawdrey Australia!
Welcoming New Member, Vawdrey Australia to the fold! Vawdrey is the nation’s leading manufacturer of quality semi-trailers and associated transport equipment.
Vawdrey is the nation’s leading manufacturer of quality semi-trailers and associated transport equipment. Proudly designed and manufactured in Australia at their Dandenong facility in Melbourne’s south eastern logistics hub, they build equipment that is custom made for the unique conditions found in the Australian operating environment. They pride themselves on delivering trailers that meet the highest standards of design and finish, that deliver unmatched levels of productivity and safety, backed up by nation-wide service and support across the country.
Get in touch!
Paul Vawdrey
Director
Dandenong South Vic. 3175
Ph: (03) 9797 3700
Mob: 0417 559 512
www.vawdrey.com.au
Mental Health First Aid Online Course: Last Session of the Year, Book Now!
Mental Health First Aid Online Course: Last Session of the Year, Book Now!
Are you interested to attend the December sessions?
Have you been in a situation where someone is in trouble, and you hoped that whatever you said helped them and not made it worse?
In that case, we have a Mental Health First Aid Course available online just for you! Check out the details below and Register Now!
The Facts:
1 in 5 Australians are presently experiencing a mental health condition, so workplaces can expect around 20% of their workforce to be living with a mental health condition.
Financially and ethically, it’s in every company’s best interest to support their workers. Research confirms that every dollar spent on effective workplace mental health actions may generate $2.30 in benefits to an organisation.
This course has been designed for staff to be equipped with tools to assist their teammates.
By building knowledge, skills and awareness, we can better support our teammates and the community.
Check out the details below!
Heavy Vehicle Licencing and Employment Pathways Working Group
Press release from the Heavy Vehicle Working Group about the future of the industry.
Heavy Vehicle Licencing and Employment Pathways Working Group
Attached is a press release from the Heavy Vehicle Working Group about the future of the industry.
A new working group has been formed to establish a process of change in the licencing of drivers and workers within the heavy vehicle industry. The Heavy Vehicle Licencing and Employment Pathways working group will enable the of voice the road transport industry to be recognised in driving the current processes of heavy vehicle licencing and to implement the necessary training structures to ensure a strong employment and career pathway within the industry.
Triodos Energy Transition Europe Fund commits EUR 11.25 million in next phase of partnership with GridBeyond
Triodos Energy Transition Europe Fund and GridBeyond are expanding their partnership via their joint venture GridBeyond Storage to accelerate the roll-out of Behind-the-Meter (BTM) battery energy storage systems (BESS) across the UK and Ireland. The fund commits EUR 11.25 million in this next phase, as part of a combined new investment of EUR 12.5 million in GridBeyond Storage.
Triodos Energy Transition Europe Fund and GridBeyond are expanding their partnership via their joint venture GridBeyond Storage to accelerate the roll-out of Behind-the-Meter (BTM) battery energy storage systems (BESS) across the UK and Ireland. The fund commits EUR 11.25 million in this next phase, as part of a combined new investment of EUR 12.5 million in GridBeyond Storage.
Driving new energy projects
Following a successful first two years of the partnership, both parties are committing to continued investment in this joint venture to drive the development of new energy projects. Building on recent success, GridBeyond Storage is now preparing to fund two ready-to-build BESS projects in Ireland and Scotland, totalling 8MWh. In parallel, GridBeyond Storage is exploring other cutting-edge opportunities, such as BTM solar PV and electric vehicle (EV) charging projects for commercial and industrial customers.
To a net-zero future
Michiel van Beek, Head of Project Equity at Triodos Investment Management: “We are very pleased to be extending our relationship with GridBeyond following a positive first two years working together. This next phase of our partnership is a highly promising development for our fund and our investors. By continuing to invest in BESS projects in the UK and Ireland, we are not only accelerating to a net-zero future, but also positioning the fund to benefit from the growing demand for flexible energy solutions. The potential addition of BTM solar PV and EV charging projects further strengthens our portfolio with innovative technologies that align with the global push for decarbonisation, offering strong risk-adjusted returns. This collaboration keeps us at the forefront of sustainable energy investment.”
GridBeyond Deputy CEO Richard O’Loughlin said: “We are delighted to evolve our collaboration with our partners at the Triodos Energy Transition Europe Fund. This partnership has already allowed us to deliver innovative battery storage solutions for our industrial and commercial customers in Ireland and the UK. It’s great to have the opportunity to deliver further flexible energy across the UK and Ireland to support the energy transition journey to a net-zero future. As more renewables are integrated into the energy market, batteries are a great asset, which can provide our Industrial and Commercial customers with more resilience, mitigate risk of power interruption, support grid connection challenges and deliver ultimately deliver value for our customer also through cost savings and carbon reduction. At the same time the evolution of our offerings with solar PV and EV smart management projects expands furthermore our ability to support our Customer’s decarbonisation goals.”
About this partnership
In 2022, Triodos Energy Transition Europe Fund and global smart energy solutions company GridBeyond entered into a 50/50 joint venture to develop Behind-the-Meter (BTM) storage projects for reputable commercial and industrial customers in the UK and Ireland. This resulted in the incorporation of a new entity GridBeyond Storage Limited in Ireland that realised two BTM projects in the UK and Ireland. The first project comprising of a 1.1MWh BESS asset at Carey Glass in Ireland has been operational since March 2023. The second project comprising of a 8.3MWh BESS asset is at O-I Glass in Scotland and is currently in the construction phase with an expected commissioning date in January 2025.
About GridBeyond
GridBeyond's vision is to deliver a global zero carbon future. By leveraging AI, we innovate and collaborate with our customers to create optimal value from energy generation, demand and storage to deliver a zero-carbon future. By bridging the gap between distributed energy resources and electricity markets, GridBeyond’s technology means every connected asset – whether utility-scale renewables generation, battery storage, or industrial load – can be utilised to help maximise opportunities and enhance the grid. By intelligently dispatching flexibility into the right market, at the right time, asset owners and energy consumers unlock new revenues and savings, resilience, and management of price volatility, while supporting the transition to a net zero future.
New RWTA member Wickham Freight Lines
Wickham Freight Lines is a trusted Australian family-owned business specialising in cold chain logistics and refrigerated freight.
Wickham Freight Lines is a trusted Australian family-owned business specialising in cold chain logistics and refrigerated freight. They provide tailored transport and cold storage solutions for fresh produce, carcass meat, chilled goods, and frozen products. With a modern fleet and a commitment to safety, service, people and performance, Wickhams Freight Lines are a reliable family driven logistics partner.
Get in touch!
Commercial Contracts Manager: Rohan Keogh
Phone: 0437 125 684
Email: rohan.keogh@wickhams.net
Website: www.wickhamfreightlines.com.au
Introducing Hale – Innovators in Cold Storage Solutions
We’re excited to welcome Hale as the newest member of the RWTA, bringing industry-leading expertise in cold storage and logistics development across Australia.
We’re excited to welcome Hale as the newest member of the RWTA, bringing industry-leading expertise in cold storage and logistics development across Australia.
Hale is an Australian infill industrial and logistics fund manager and developer, with capabilities spanning single and multi-level warehousing, cold storage and industrial outdoor storage. Hale invest in high barrier to entry markets and are driven to deliver superior risk mitigated returns to their investment partners.
Hale currently have the largest speculative cold storage facility in Australia under construction, which is located in Brisbane’s popular TradeCoast precinct. With tenancies from 6,200 sqm – 19,530 sqm, these cold stores offers 50% freezer and 50% chiller capability with state-of-the-art refrigeration and freezer technology to optimise efficiency for occupiers. This dual technology design and flexibility will accommodate a broad range of occupier requirements.
For more information contact
Katie Whitford
National Leasing Manager
Mathew Reiffel Discusses Second Bite’s Role in Feeding Australia
Mat and Marianne discuss what Second Bite and Fare Share are doing, with the help of contributors, to help feed the food insecure in Australia.
Mat Reiffel is the Victorian State Manager for Second Bite.
Mat and Marianne discuss what Second Bite and Fare Share are doing, with the help of contributors, to help feed the food insecure in Australia.
The cold chain is integral in ensuring that precious food does not go to waste, but to people who are desperate for assistance.
Take a few minutes to learn more about how we can help those in need.
New Member Alert: Interview with CJC Compliance
Meet Chris Catchpole from CJC who specialises in the intricacies of Chain of Responsibility.
Meet Chris Catchpole from CJC who specialises in the intricacies of Chain of Responsibility.
He brings a wealth of experience as a Logistics Compliance Auditor and Consultant, with a background as a former truck driver.
Chris really understands the pressures of the industry and the demands placed on the sector to deliver results.
His deep knowledge of compliance drives his passion for ensuring companies adhere to regulations; he is dedicated to promoting safe and ethical practices within the logistics field.
Need assistance with the question of CoR?
RWTA VIC Golf Day Photos
Last week we had a sell-out Golf Day at Eagle Ridge at the Mornington Peninsula with over 100 attendees thrilled to be playing and enjoying a great day on the green! There are too many good photos here not to share with you all!
Keen to see the fun we had? Click the link here!
Last week we had a sell-out Golf Day at Eagle Ridge at the Mornington Peninsula with over 100 attendees thrilled to be playing and enjoying a great day on the green!
We managed to dodge some appalling weather that looked to blow in early that morning. The Golf Gods of Weather saw it was the RWTA crowd and just passed on by!
There are too many good photos here not to share with you all!
Keen to see the fun we had? Click the link here!
Don't Miss the Mental Health First Aid Online Course 13th and 20th November. Last Call
Last Call Register Now! Don't Miss the Mental Health First Aid Online Course 13th and 20th November.
Have you been in a situation where someone is in trouble, and you hoped that whatever you said helped them and not made it worse?
In that case, we have a Mental Health First Aid Course available online just for you! Check out the details below and Register Now!
The Facts:
1 in 5 Australians are presently experiencing a mental health condition, so workplaces can expect around 20% of their workforce to be living with a mental health condition.
Financially and ethically, it’s in every company’s best interest to support their workers. Research confirms that every dollar spent on effective workplace mental health actions may generate $2.30 in benefits to an organisation.
This course has been designed for staff to be equipped with tools to assist their teammates.
By building knowledge, skills and awareness, we can better support our teammates and the community.
Check out the details below!
RWTA New Member Interview: An Inside Look at Consignly’s Warehouse Management Software
Join us in welcoming Consignly to the Refrigerated Warehouse and Transport Association! Consignly’s intelligent software is suitable for warehouses of ALL sizes; integrating seamlessly with 3PL clients, it uses cutting edge cloud technology, all available at low operating costs.
Join us in welcoming Consignly to the Refrigerated Warehouse and Transport Association!
Consignly’s intelligent software is suitable for warehouses of ALL sizes; integrating seamlessly with 3PL clients, it uses cutting edge cloud technology, all available at low operating costs.
The system drastically reduces customer enquiries by providing portal access so they can see stock levels, consignment status and proof of delivery.
Tune into our Chilled Out series for an interview with Mark McLeod, GM Australia of Consignly.
New Member Alert: CJC Logistics Compliance Joins to Support CoR & HVNL Standards
We welcome CJC Logistics Compliance as a New Member of the RWTA!
Logistics is a vital component of the Australian economy, with many businesses and consumers relying on effective and efficient freight companies.
Chris Catchpole
We welcome CJC Logistics Compliance as a New Member of the RWTA!
Logistics is a vital component of the Australian economy, with many businesses and consumers relying on effective and efficient freight companies.
Chain of Responsibility (CoR) and overall safety in the industry is of paramount concern.
We are all human, and humans aren't perfect, but with the right tools and resources, we can minimise risk and prioritise safety, whilst also complying with government regulations.
CJC Logistics Compliance specialise in Heavy Vehicle National Law and Chain of Responsibility compliance and assurance, as well as providing risk mitigation strategies to ensure your business is doing all that is considered “Reasonably Practicable”. They pride themselves on giving a tailored service to ensure your business is maintaining compliance to HVNL and CoR whilst giving a cost effective solution to your assurance activity.
For more information, get in touch with:
Chris Catchpole
Managing Director
E: chris@cjccompliance.com.au
M: 0466 211 390
W: cjccompliance.com.au