The Australian Livestock and Rural Transporters Association (ALRTA) has announced that executive director Rachel Smith is stepping down after two years in the role.

ALRTA president Gerard Johnson says that Rachel joined the organisation at a ‘pivotal time for rural transport’.

“As Executive Director, Ms Smith was an influential and strong voice for livestock operators representing the industry to stakeholders and government,” he says.

“Ms Smith was instrumental in achieving exemptions for livestock transporters under the Fair Work Legislation Amendment Bill, supporting WA members in the Keep the Sheep campaign, participating in the National Agricultural Rally which saw thousands of rural operators descend on Canberra, through to lobbying for increased funding for the Bruce Highway and introducing a new digital era for the ALRTA.”

Rachel expressed her thanks for the opportunity to advocate for the rural transport industry.

“I thank all members for their steadfast support over the past 18 months as we’ve worked tirelessly to influence positive change and ensure industry concerns are heard at all levels of government and within the community,” she says.

“Together we have strengthened the reputation of the ALRTA as a credible and trusted peak industry body. The ALRTA has an important role to play in helping to set the political agenda as we head into the Federal election.”

With 30 years of experience in livestock transport, Anthony Boyle has been appointed as interim executive director.

“Rachel departs us with our utmost thanks and her unwavering commitment, passion, enthusiasm, and motivation will be hugely missed,” he says.

“On behalf of the council of the ALTRA, I would like to pass on our best wishes to Rachel who has overseen a huge transition period for the ALRTA.”