2011 Australian Trucking Convention

The National Convention Centre utilised its space and layout to make the 2011 Australia Trucking Convention the largest in its 20 year history

Held May 25-28, the Australian Trucking Convention included an exhibition of local and international trucking organisations and operators, a series of workshops and speaker sessions, and a program of social activities including a gala dinner.

Bringing together the biggest display of trucks ever to be showcased in Canberra, the four-day convention attracted industry delegates and local visitors to the National Convention Centre’s exhibition halls. The venue was filled with full-size truck cabs, utes and other large vehicles, displaying the latest in motoring technology for trucking.

With 36 booths, the 2011 convention was the largest in its 20- year history. To create adequate space for the growing exhibition, the NCC needed to open access to both the exhibition hall and the exhibition terrace. Some of the larger vehicles were also displayed outside the venue in a purpose-built marquee.

The large-scale event required an extensive bump-in, with the NCC’s team overseeing the sprawling setup of trucks, moving the large-scale vehicles inside via the venue’s loading dock.

The NCC was required to bring in additional 24-hour security to keep an eye on the trucks and structural engineers to approve vehicle displays ensuring safety was at a maximum throughout the convention.

To cater for convention delegates and participants, the NCC enlisted its culinary team to design and produce a special menu, featuring gourmet curries, steak sandwiches and wedges. The menu was also available to members of the public, who gained entry to the truck exhibition for free.

The convention is held at the NCC every three years and is attended by delegates involved or interested in trucking operations from around the country.