The industry’s outstanding leaders and innovators of 2025 were recognised at the prestigious Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia (HVIA) National Awards Gala Dinner in front of an all-time record crowd at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre last Thursday (December 4).
The industry’s ‘night of nights’ also celebrated HVIA’s 10th anniversary, marking a decade since its transition from the Commercial Vehicle Industry Association of Queensland to a truly national industry voice.
HVIA CEO Todd Hacking says the record turnout was a fitting celebration of the heavy vehicle industry’s leading innovators and innovations in 2025.
“Every year we’re honoured to witness more of our members’ extraordinary innovation and ingenuity being revealed,” Hacking said.
“That is along with the joy it brings us to recognise some amazing young industry people at the start of what we expect to be a long and fulfilling career in the heavy industry.”
Making the night extra special, HVIA also recognised milestone 10-, 25- and 50-year members with presentations of commemorative medallions and certificates. Read the full list of recipients here.
Industry Recognition Award
Winner: Paul Crawford, CMV Group
HVIA CEO Todd Hacking presents Paul Crawford with the prestigious award.For more than four decades, Paul, alongside his brothers David and Michael, has been at the helm of the CMV Group.
A third‑generation leader following his father Jim, Paul helped steer the biggest growth period in the company’s history. In Victoria, he was instrumental in expanding CMV Group’s trucking interests, most notably the growth of CMV Truck & Bus into the highly successful operation it is today.
While Paul has an engineer’s brain, it’s his tenacity for people and excellence that defines his leadership. He’s passionate about developing talent, and one of his most valued legacies is the apprentice training programs that continue to lift skills across CMV Group’s light automotive and heavy-duty truck businesses today.
In the CMV Group’s 90th year last year, Paul retired from the Managing Director role, handing the reins to fourth‑generation leaders Daniel and Miles Crawford, leaving an enormous footprint across both CMV Group and the heavy vehicle industry.
Industry Leadership in Workforce Development Award
Winner: CMV Truck & Bus for ‘Growing Its Own’
With a 20-year apprenticeship program, SMART goals for all staff and a state-of-the-art training facility at Derrimut, CMV has built a scalable model for workforce capability.
Programs like TechEdge support technician upskilling, while mentoring, career guidance and values-based learning foster confident, ethical professionals.
High retention rates and internal career progression reflect the strength of CMV’s approach, positioning the business as a training-focused employer of choice in the heavy vehicle industry.
The judges noted that “CMV demonstrate a culture of continuous learning, mutual respect and open dialogue. All tools that make for a well-rounded cohort of employees. The submission describes an incredible trajectory from an apprentice to a senior role.”
Product Innovation Award
Winner: Airtec Corporation for the AXS SmartOBM OBM system
On-board mass systems are essential for safe, efficient freight – and the AXS SmartOBM Series takes them to the next level.
With Bluetooth Mesh connectivity, real-time weight data and a visual payload indicator, drivers can load confidently without risking overloads or delays.
“Compliance has always been a challenge in every aspect of industry operations (and) every innovation to assist is extremely valuable. Airtec have demonstrated excellent engagement with the complete suite of stakeholders,” the judges noted.
Safety Innovation Award
Winner: Volvo Trucks Australia for Dynamic Steering
Sudden front-tyre blowouts are among the most dangerous events a truck driver can face – especially at speed.
The latest evolution of Volvo’s Dynamic Steering system tackles this risk head-on, introducing real-time puncture detection and automated steering support to help drivers maintain control in critical moments.
The judges noted that the system makes the driver’s role safer, particularly at times of critical stress.
“Volvo’s latest Dynamic Steering has to be seen as a great move forward for driver safety and reliability; a practical solution with real-world market appeal, clear industry leading safety-related benefits (and) something for competitors to take note of.”
Community Leadership Award
Winner: Cummins South Pacific for the Climate Action Schools Program
Cummins’ leadership in the Climate Action Schools program reflects a deep, hands-on commitment to sustainability and community impact.
Staff across the business have contributed to mentoring, working bees and hosting industry tours, embedding Cummins’ operational expertise into the program’s design and delivery.
Industry Workforce Champion Award
Winner: Kate Evans from Cummins South Pacific
A Global Training Consultant at Cummins South Pacific, Kate Evans is a driving force behind inclusive, future-focused workforce development in the heavy vehicle industry.
From designing Cummins’ Capability Training Program to leading national partnerships with Technical Education for Communities, HVIA and Trades Women Australia, Kate has shaped programs that improve apprentice retention, accelerate progression and expand access for underrepresented groups.
Kate’s work is both comprehensive and deeply impactful, addressing the industry’s skills gap while championing diversity and inclusion,” the judges noted.
“Her influence on both internal processes and broader industry standards ensures her impact will continue to benefit the sector long-term. This is a clear example of a sustainable legacy with enduring value for workforce development.”
Heavy Vehicle Technician Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Chalee Hollandrose from Cummins South Pacific
Chalee’s apprenticeship journey has been defined by technical excellence, resilience and a deep commitment to team culture.
Working in the demanding environment of remote mining operations, she’s tackled complex diagnostics and major rebuilds with confidence and precision.
The judges said: “Chalee has a bright future and is very happy to build her broad knowledge of the industry. Chalee shows a maturity beyond her years, understanding responsibility and accountability.”
Heavy Vehicle Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Joshua McNicol from Tefco
Joshua McNicol from Tefco with award sponsor, Wurth Australia CEO Serge Oppedisano.Joshua’s rapid rise in heavy vehicle manufacturing reflects a rare blend of technical precision, initiative and leadership.
Now in his fourth year, he’s already leading complex trailer builds, mentoring junior apprentices and driving improvements in safety and efficiency.
“Josh consistently displays the attributes of a high-performing apprentice and the aptitude to develop into a capable future leader,” the judges said.
“His high score reflects not only the breadth of his accomplishments during his apprenticeship, but also the strong potential Josh shows for future success.”
Heavy Vehicle Specialist Trades Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Isaac Rooney from Volvo Commercial Vehicles
Isaac’s apprenticeship has been marked by curiosity, capability and a clear drive to lead.
From rebuilding fire-damaged systems to pioneering EV servicing at VCV Southside, he’s shown technical maturity well beyond his years.
The judges said: “It is clear that Isaac possesses the hallmarks of a future leader, demonstrated through his strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, and readiness to take on additional responsibilities within the company.
“His proactive approach, reliability, and ability to inspire confidence in those around him, position him well to step into leadership roles, setting a solid foundation for a successful career.”
HVIA Heavy Vehicle Industry Apprentice of the Year
Winner: Chalee Hollandrose from Cummins South Pacific
Chalee’s leadership shines through her support across multiple Cummins branches and her role as HSE Chair, promoting safety and inclusion.
With a clear vision for her future in engineering and a passion for mentoring others, Chalee exemplifies the spirit of a future industry leader.
“Chalee is eager to learn and work across teams. She is a team player, who shows integrity and strong values,” the judges noted.
“Chalee demonstrates the want and desire to learn and develop in all aspects of the business.”
Sustainability Initiative Award
Winner: Charge Hub Australia for large-scale zero-emission depot electrification
Charge Hub Australia, in partnership with Kempower and Addelec, is delivering large-scale electrification of zero-emissions depots – including WA’s Malaga and Bayswater sites supporting over 240 electric buses.
The initiative demonstrates a scalable infrastructure model directly transferable to freight and logistics fleets.
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