The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has elected its new president, appointing Ryan’s of Leongatha founder Dennis Ryan.

Murphy Transport Solutions CEO Cameron Murphy was re-elected as vice president for a further term.

VTA CEO Peter Anderson says Dennis is well-known to the VTA’s membership, having served on the Executive Council of the VTA on various committees, most recently as vice president.

“He has worked in the transport industry for over 50 years, with the third-generation family-owned and operated Ryan’s of Leongatha well-known and regarded in the broader Victorian and national freight and logistics industry,” Peter says.

The election of Ryan means the tenure of immediate past-president Mike Lean to a close after five years, with Lean having negotiated a challenging period of supply chain issues.

At the AGM, Lean delivered his fifth President’s Report, emphasising that the VTA is in great shape financially, operationally and reputationally. He cited training, industry support through the pandemic, a decarbonisation focus, state and federal engagement and regulatory reforms as key highlights.

He finished by reflecting on the importance of renewal, challenging the association to inspire younger generations and get future leaders involved.

“I’d like to thank Mike on behalf of the Council, Secretariat, and broader VTA membership for his generous commitment of time and energy throughout his presidency, and for inspiring lasting strategic change that has set the Association up well for many years of success,” Peter says.

The AGM also saw the election of TFMXpress managing director Frank Ainalis to the Executive Council.

As an experienced operator and a much-respected industry figure who is very passionate about the transport industry and its people, Ainalis’ commitment for over 30 years gave rise to TFM Logistics, with TFMXpress a leading provider of national road express and priority air express services within Australia.

“I look forward to working with Frank, with the Council set to benefit from his years of hands-on experience and strategic expertise,” Peter says.

“Please join me in congratulating Dennis on his election as President, and Cameron on his re-election as Vice President, and in warmly welcoming Frank Ainalis to the Executive Council.”

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