Annual Heavy Haul Rail Conference
The Heavy Haul Rail Awards will return in 2027 on 18 March 2027 at Crown Perth, following the 2027 Rail Turnouts workshop, to honour ground-breaking achievements in the sector. Join us for this unique networking function which includes pre-dinner drinks and presentations to our Australian Heavy Haul Rail Awards winners.
The Heavy Haul Rail Conference will return on 22 – 23 March 2028, continuing its tradition of showcasing, celebrating and advancing the local and international network of heavy haul rail innovation.
In the meantime, we look forward to seeing everyone at the International Heavy Haul Association Conference from Monday 21 to Thursday 24 June at Crown Perth, Australia 2027. Click here for further information.
Australian Heavy Haul Rail Awards
The Australian Heavy Haul Rail Awards return in 2027 and aim to identify and recognise the contributions of individuals and organisations shaping the future of Australia’s heavy haul rail industry, with a focus on leadership, commitment to innovation, safety and sustainability for the advancement of the heavy haul rail industry rail. Winners will be announced at the Heavy Haul Rail Awards Dinner on 18 March 2027.
This year, we’re accepting nominations in 6 categories:
- Emerging Leader of the Year
- Rail Impact Excellence Award: Sustainability & Social Responsibility
- Inspirational Woman in Heavy Haul Rail
- Unsung Hero
- Industry Champion
- Lifetime Achievement
KEY DATES
- Nominations open – Tuesday 1 September 2026
- Nominations close – Completed nomination forms will be accepted up to COB Friday, 11 December 2026
- Winners announced at the Heavy Haul Rail Awards Dinner on 18 March 2027
Catch up on all the action from the 2026 event:
Acceleration Allies
Informa Rail ‘Acceleration Allies’: #MarchForward at every event
Launched in 2024, ‘Acceleration Allies’ is a program across all Informa Rail events that calls on organisations to commit to gender equality. In 2025, starting with Heavy Haul Rail #MarchForward in your commitment to advance the ‘Rights. Equality. Empowerment.’ of ALL and everyone in your organisation.
Organisations achieving 30% or more female representation—across speakers, delegates, sponsors, and attendees—will be acknowledged as ‘Acceleration Allies’.
Why It Matters:
Public recognition as a leader in gender diversity positions your organization at the forefront of industry innovation and inclusivity.
What’s in It for You?
- Exclusive Recognition: Featured acknowledgments as an as ‘Acceleration Ally’.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded industry leaders who prioritise equality and empowerment.
- Positive Brand Visibility: Show stakeholders, clients, and partners your commitment to diversity and inclusion.
How to Get Involved: Simple Steps to Make an Impact
- Step 1: Assess your current representation and identify female colleagues to attend, speak, or participate.
- Step 2: Register your organisation and track your progress towards the 30% goal.
- Step 3: Celebrate your achievement and enjoy the recognition of being an Acceleration Ally at Heavy Haul Rail.
#MarchForward
- Elevate the women in your organisation. Champion gender equality, diversity and change.
- Secure your place as an Acceleration Ally today!
Next Generation Conference Scholarships
The Next Generation Conference Scholarships will return in 2028, offering young rail professionals the opportunity to attend the Heavy Haul Rail Conference.
Do you have an idea that could drive innovation or bring greater awareness to heavy haul rail technology and operations?
We invite all rail sector personnel aged 30yrs and under to submit their innovative ideas for the opportunity to win one of 10 scholarships to attend the Heavy Haul Rail Conference in 2028.
Your idea may take inspiration from or could be applied to any discipline or field within the heavy haul rail sector such as operational efficiency, emerging technologies, digital solutions, safety systems, sustainability and decarbonisation, environmental impact reduction, or innovative freight solutions – in 200-300 words describe your idea or concept and how it could enhance heavy haul rail operations, improve industry practices, or promote the benefits of heavy haul rail innovation.
WINNERS WILL RECEIVE:
- Complimentary attendance to the Heavy Haul Rail Conference
- Opportunity to network with industry representatives
- Certificates of acknowledgement
- A featured Professional Profile on the Next Generation Hub within the event app
Rail Turnouts Workshops
Join us in Melbourne on 28 July 2026 at the Park Hyatt for an intensive one-day workshop bringing together leading experts to share essential technical knowledge across all aspects of rail turnouts.
Following the success of the recent Rail Turnouts Workshop in Perth, this east coast event continues our commitment to advancing industry knowledge through collaborative learning, practical case study applications, and insights into current trends and emerging technologies in turnout design, maintenance, and management.
Co-located with the Rail Freight Conference, this workshop offers delegates a unique opportunity to engage with both freight and infrastructure specialists in one convenient location.
Rail Turnouts Workshop 2027
The Rail Turnouts Workshop will return on 18 March 2027, running prior to the Australian Heavy Haul Awards on 18 March 2027. The workshop will exchange and transfer knowledge from a range of experts working across rail turnouts.
Building on the revised ‘back-to-basics’ foundational outlook, this workshop reflects a renewed focus on the transfer of industry knowledge and technical expertise via shared learnings, the practical applications of specialist case studies and an overview of current trends and emerging technologies.
MODULES & UPDATED TOPICS TO BE ADDRESSED INCLUDE:
- Module 1: Introduction to fundamentals
- Module 2: Design and engineering
- Module 3: Signalling
- Module 4: Manufacturing and assembly
- Module 5: Turnout supply and installation
- Module 6: Maintenance
- Module 7: Practical problem-solving
- Module 8: R&D and training
2026 SPEAKERS
Sponsors & Exhibitors
INSIGHTS
How the rail industry is combating price escalations
Increasing rail’s share of inter-capital freight – ideas from Anna Dartnell
How Speno Rail cultivates its safety culture
A sustainable heavy haul sector – what to expect in the years ahead
Breaking new ground in heavy haul operations – an interview with Kevin Piefer
Contact us
WHEN & WHERE
22 - 23 Apr 2026
Crown Perth
Great Eastern Hwy,
Burswood WA 6100