JUNE 2006

Chairman’s Update

The highlight of May was my visit to China. An opportunity organised by the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade, as part of the Free Trade Agreement negotiations between our two countries, to experience first-hand, the burgeoning economy and to extoll the extension of logistics services in China.

This great experience was to some extent diffused on my return by the need to take action to cancel our quarterly meeting in Adelaide. This difficult decision was underpinned by the unavailability of members due to overseas commitments, and conflicts with AGM’s and Board meetings, which meant it wasn't worth holding the meeting. Importantly Hal and I followed through with the appropriate Ministerial appointments in Adelaide. 

The biggest "buzz" without doubt, was hosting the Industry Reception originally scheduled, featuring the launch of the ‘TDT Enterprising Youth’ Initiative, for some 80 people including students, parents, TDT facilitators, ALC members, and Toll representative management. Toll partnered with TDT in this national project, and experienced an overwhelming internal response to participate. 

There are many initiatives we have had to run with, with the cancellation of the Adelaide meeting. Most importantly, the Steve Meyrick extrapolation of our infrastructure objectives. The Executive Committee has strongly endorsed this revision. Please read the attached papers and support.

Ivan Backman