The National Road Freighters Association Ltd (NRFA), is committed to promoting a culture of safety, sustainability and profitability across Australia’s road freight Industry.
It is our mission to be a strong, unified voice for drivers, owner-operators, and fleets – large or small, advocating for policies and initiatives that drive safer, more efficient and profitable transport operations.
ABOUT US
The National Road Freighters Association envisions a future marked by continuous advocacy for industry reform and the advancement of the interests of road freight operators across Australia. As the association looks ahead from 2024, its journey will be characterized by a relentless commitment to representing the voice of the “small guy” in the transport sector and fostering collaboration with industry stakeholders to drive positive change.
Building upon its foundation laid in 2008 following the National Road Transport shutdown, NRFA will continue to evolve into a dynamic grassroots association. With board members deeply engaged in various aspects of transport operations, ranging from bulk and oversize to refrigerated, dangerous goods, and livestock transportation, NRFA will maintain its role as a staunch advocate for the diverse needs of its members.
One of NRFA’s primary objectives for the future is to remain actively involved in shaping legislative initiatives that benefit the road freight industry. The passing of the Closing Loopholes Bill in 2024 served as a milestone in NRFA’s advocacy efforts, and the association is poised to continue leading the charge for industry reform. By collaborating with industry bodies and policymakers in a bipartisan manner, the NRFA will work towards addressing concerns within the transport sector and promoting fair and equitable practices.
Under the leadership of President Glyn Castanelli and a dedicated board, the NRFA will strive to carve a path to Canberra and amplify the voices of road freight operators on the national stage. The association’s mission to advocate for legislative improvements reflects its unwavering commitment to addressing industry challenges and fostering a supportive environment for its members.
Looking ahead, NRFA recognizes the importance of staying ahead of emerging trends and technologies in the transport sector. By embracing innovation and leveraging new opportunities, the association will continue to empower its members to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.
In the years to come, the NRFA envisions a future where road freight operators of all sizes have a strong voice and are empowered to shape the direction of the industry. Through collaboration, advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to its members, the NRFA will play a pivotal role in driving positive change and fostering a sustainable and prosperous future for the Australian transport industry.
The makeup of our Board is four Executives', the Past President and six board members. The President can only hold office for three consecutive years then must stand down. The presidency is the only position with this requirement, but we can remove the President at any AGM.
The NRFA has established a good working relationship with the regulatory bodies and other industries organisations. We have the unique ability to promote real-life, real-time experience concerning regulation and compliance. We encourage you to contact us any time.
Glyn has spent decades in the transport industry, from driving and running his own truck to managing fleets and auditing compliance systems. His hands-on background has shaped a deep respect for the people who keep Australia moving and a clear understanding of the challenges operators face. He joined the NRFA board in 2016 to ensure drivers and small operators had a strong, independent voice in industry reform. Since then, he has worked to make sure grassroots transport is represented in key national discussions. Glyn is passionate about safety, training and professionalism, supporting initiatives that build real career pathways. He also serves on the Truck Safe Board and co-hosts Risky Business on Big Rig Radio.
I have been involved in the transport industry for over 25 years, with experience across bulk commodities, general freight, markets and refrigerated transport. Coming from a strong farming background, I’ve also held several management roles in transport, logistics and manufacturing. Since being a part of starting Big Rig Radio in 2023, I’ve gone on to play a major role in bringing back the iconic industry magazine Truckin’ Life and have extended my advocacy work by helping to secure and put the Steering the Future education and inspiration trailer on the road. I now live life on the road with my wife and business partners, travelling to schools across the country to help educate young drivers on how to interact safely with heavy vehicles and to inspire them to consider one of the many rewarding careers that this great industry has to offer.
Chris has spent his entire working life in transport, beginning with TNT in Sydney before returning home to run the family business. For around 50 years he has been a proud owner-operator, staying hands-on and deeply connected to the industry. He played a role in the historic Razorback Blockade and has long advocated for unity and fairness across the sector. At70, he still takes pride in doing the job well and continues to serve the industry as our National Secretary.
While Collette came into the transport industry later in life, she quickly found her place alongside her husband running a single-truck business carting oversize loads and grain along the east coast. Her involvement with the NRFA began in 2022 as Office Administrator, and her passion for the industry has continued to grow, driven by a strong desire to make a positive difference. In 2025, she joined the NRFA Board as Treasurer, further expanding her commitment to the transport community. As a part owner of Big Rig Radio, Truckin’ Life, and the education and inspiration trailer Steering the Future, Collette now spends much of her time on the road attending road safety weeks, school visits, and career days. Through these efforts, she is dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation to value road safety and consider a future in the transport industry.
I became involved in road safety over 20 years ago after winning Driver of the Year along with several other awards. During that time, I was also involved with the Australian Roadtrain Association. After 29 years, I made the decision to leave Toll when I was unable to gain their support for my road safety efforts. For the past 16 years, I have been employed with Rod Pillion Transport, covering most of Australia doing both general freight and bulk dangerous goods work, from single trailers through to road trains. I have been a member of the NRFA for nearly 11 years and have served on the board for 6 of those. I remain deeply passionate about driver education, improving our roads and rest areas, and ensuring drivers are treated with the respect they deserve. The Truckright Industry Vehicle and the Green Reflector marking of informal truck bays are two personal projects that I am especially proud of.
The Terrie Bradley Memorial Award honours the legacy of Terrie Bradley, a woman whose dedication and tireless efforts were instrumental in shaping the National Road Freighters Association (NRFA). Often referred to as the "Mother of the NRFA," Terrie was the association’s first secretary, working alongside founder Mick Pattel. Her unwavering commitment saw her managing memberships, newsletters, and administrative duties, ensuring the NRFA’s growth while Mick was on the road. Terrie’s passion for the industry was unmatched, often placing the NRFA’s needs above her own, all while running her family business. Tragically, Terrie has since passed, and this award was established to recognise her extraordinary contributions. In her honour, this award is presented to a woman in the transport industry who goes above and beyond to advocate for and improve the industry.
CASUARINA SMITH (CJ)
2025
ANDREA HAMILTON-VAUGHAN
2024
DIANNE CARROLL OAM
2023
SHELLEY MITCHELL
2022
LEANNE DYER
2022
ANGELA WELSH
2022
SALLY TIPPING
2022
Noel Porter AWARD
The Noel Porter Memorial Award honours the memory of Noel Porter, a dedicated transport operator and passionate advocate for the road transport industry. As a Victorian Delegate on the NRFA Board, Noel was known for his strong voice on industry and rural issues, often attending rallies and meetings at his own expense to push for change. A true Aussie with a sharp wit and a love for the industry, Noel ran a small transport business out of Colac, operating Freightliner Century Class prime movers and an International Eagle. He tackled the challenges of the job head-on, always ready to take on the next load, no matter how tough. Beyond his contributions to advocacy, Noel brought energy and humour to the NRFA, particularly at AGMs, where he served as the auctioneer, raising funds while keeping everyone entertained. His presence is deeply missed, and his passing was a great loss to the industry. This award is presented in Noel’s honour to recognise an individual who embodies his passion, dedication, and commitment to the transport industry.
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