overview

Thank you to all the speakers, sponsors and delegates who ensured the success of the ARA’s 7th annual Light Rail Conference in Canberra in March. The 2020 conference brought together over one hundred and ninety people including operators, manufacturers, contractors and industry and government stakeholders of every level across the light rail sector to hear cutting-edge case studies, project updates and learn from successful projects in Australasia and the world.

In welcoming delegates, ARA CEO Caroline Wilkie spoke about the key benefits of reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse emissions that have led to new Light Rail networks being built in the Gold Coast, Newcastle, Canberra and Sydney in recent years, and the ongoing success of the Melbourne tram network, the largest in the world.

ACT Transport Minister Chris Steel announced the ACT Government would commission pre-feasibility studies for Light rail stages 3 and 4, extending the network further into Canberra’s suburbs and to the airport.

Delegates heard project updates on Canberra, Sydney and Parramatta Light Rail, and the latest international developments in new technology and systems. The Conference heard panel discussions on urban rejuvenation, and data and customer service. There were also two technical streams addressing best practice and the latest developments in safety, innovation, planning, and design as well as a site tour of the Canberra Metro operations (CMET) depot.

There were many highlights including the insights from Tilo Franz and his Canberra Metro Operations (CMET) team about how they have not only met, but exceeded their targets for availability, punctuality and reliability and the conference dinner, proudly hosted by Bombardier, at the National Portrait Gallery.

A recurring theme throughout the event was the benefits industry can gain from improved collaboration and learnings from each other’s projects. We look forward to continuing to facilitate this exchange of ideas and networking and welcoming you to Light Rail 2021!