Time To Grow Your Team
Spring is a season of growth and the perfect time to strengthen your workforce. As demand builds across Australia, the competition for skilled staff is heating up. By planning ahead now, you'll have the right people in place when you need them most.
Meet Skatco: Engineering Smarter Doors for the Cold Chain
In this episode of The Chilled Out Chronicles, Marianne speaks with New member, Adam Shannon of Skatco — innovators in insulated and high-speed doors for refrigerated warehouses.
In this episode of The Chilled Out Chronicles, Marianne speaks with New member, Adam Shannon of Skatco — innovators in insulated and high-speed doors for refrigerated warehouses. Discover how Skatco tailors every solution to the unique needs of the cold chain industry. Adam shares what’s next for the company as they look to the future of smarter, more efficient cold storage design.
Sustainability in Action, New Member Mansfield Advisory
Curious about how sustainability and smart construction intersect?
In this episode of RWTA's Chilled Out Chronicles, Marianne speaks with new member, Jeremy Mansfield about how Mansfield Advisory is shaping greener, more efficient outcomes for the future of construction in the cold chain.
Curious about how sustainability and smart construction intersect?
In this episode of RWTA’s Chilled Out Chronicles, Marianne speaks with new member, Jeremy Mansfield about how Mansfield Advisory is shaping greener, more efficient outcomes for the future of construction in the cold chain.
AI Enters the Freezer: The Smart Tech Transforming Cold Chain Logistics
AI is quietly revolutionising cold-chain logistics — from placing deli meat at the front of freezers to using digital twins and intelligent agents to simulate warehouse operations in real time
AI is quietly revolutionising cold-chain logistics — from placing deli meat at the front of freezers to using digital twins and intelligent agents to simulate warehouse operations in real time.
Lineage and Americold are deploying computer-vision and predictive models to reduce travel distances, while temperature excursions become AI-alerted events.
But challenges remain — especially when much of the industry still operates via spreadsheets.
In Memory of RWTA Life Member, Ross Bell.
It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Ross Bell on the 9thof September, 2025.
It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Ross Bell on the 9thof September, 2025.
Ross was a long-time contributor to the RWTA in past years and an esteemed RWTA Life Member.
Ross brought a wealth of experience to the Cold Chain industry, joining Frigmobile Pty Ltd in 1981 after a distinguished accounting career with Namco, Royal Doulton, and Sony Corporation.
Rising to Chief Executive in 1984, Ross’s leadership and vision shaped the industry’s growth through a period of significant transformation.
Serving as RWTA President and Chairman from 1993 to 1999, Ross was elected a Life Member in 1997.
His contributions and legacy will be remembered with great respect and gratitude.
NSW Drinks After Work- the last RWTA Sydney Function for 2025!
It was an excellent opportunity for the RWTA Sydney Contingent of the Cold Chain Crowd to meet for some great food and a few, after work drinks prior to the end of year getting too hectic!
It was an excellent opportunity for the RWTA Sydney Contingent of the Cold Chain Crowd to meet for some great food and a few, after work drinks prior to the end of year getting too hectic!
Already planning for next year to host some great get togethers, but this night was to celebrate the end of a great year and get concentrated for Christmas!
Empowering Your Workforce: Training and Research That Keep the Cold Chain Moving
The Global Cold Chain Foundation (GCCF) is the non-profit education, research, and international development partner of the GCCA.
The Global Cold Chain Foundation (GCCF) is the non-profit education, research, and international development partner of the GCCA.
They deliver comprehensive programs for refrigerated warehouse and distribution personnel, publish technical manuals on refrigeration science, cold storage, freezing, energy efficiency, and facility management.
Through their training programs, research, and project-based development work, organisations can strengthen their operational capability, enhance compliance, and adopt best practice standards across the cold chain.
QLD Construction Nearing Completion: CityPort Coldstores, 347 Lytton Road, Morningside
CityPort Coldstores represents the largest speculative cold storage development to ever be offered within Queensland. The facility can be occupied by a large single occupier, looking to secure the whole facility or three subdivided tenancies from 6,200sqm*.
CityPort Coldstores represents the largest speculative cold storage development to ever be offered within Queensland. The facility can be occupied by a large single occupier, looking to secure the whole facility or three subdivided tenancies from 6,200sqm*.
Key highlights include:
■ Best price per pallet in Southeast Queensland for maximised margins
■ Scalable storage offered for seasonal or long-term demand
■ Internal heights of 11.5m* supports high-density storage, accommodating up to 7 pallets
■ Advanced temperature-controlled environments with 50% freezer and 50% chiller
■ 6m* wide awnings for all weather loading and unloading
■ 29 dock levellers spread across three tenancies with 15m* deep ante rooms
■ TradeCoast location with unparalleled connectivity to Port of Brisbane, Brisbane Airport, Gateway Motorway and the CBD
■ Practical completion due in December 2025
Benjamin and Benjamin Discretionary Mutual Fund (DMF) October Update
The RWTA are working in conjunction with Benjamin and BenjaminInsurance Group Pty Ltd to create a Discretionary Mutual Fund (DMF) for the financial benefit for members of the RWTA.
Background
If you are new to this conversation, the RWTA are working in conjunction with Benjamin and Benjamin Insurance Group Pty Ltd to create a Discretionary Mutual Fund (DMF) for the financial benefit for members of the RWTA.
What does it deliver?
The DMF can issue contracts like insurance policies as an alternative to your current property and public liability insurance.
Its purpose is to lower your insurance premiums and help reduce claims that your business might otherwise incur.
Where are we at?
There are presently 18 cold storage businesses with more than 30 sites across Australia & NZ involved in progressing this presently.
Physical reviews have just been completed across Australia and NZ.
Next stages
1. Insurance Actuaries, Risk Managers & Insurance Lawyers will review physical reviews and other businesses documentation to provide a report on:
a. If a DMF is viable – up until now all the information supplied by these 18 businesses indicate that a DMF is viable and useful to reduce premiums for members.
b. If a DMF is viable, the correct corporate & business operational structure of the DMF.
2. Proposition of the DMF is presented to the RWTA membership for acceptance or rejection.
3. If accepted, the DMF structure will be created.
4. It is estimated that if the DMF is created, it will open for business on or before Monday February 2nd 2026.
Form more information contact: mariannek@rwta.com.au
Frozen Assets, Rising Demand – Cushman & Wakefield’s Market Insight
Australia’s cold storage sector is experiencing critical undersupply, with vacancy at just 0.6% compared to a 3% industrial average.
Australia’s cold storage sector is experiencing critical undersupply, with vacancy at just 0.6% compared to a 3% industrial average. Existing stock is around 3.1 million m², yet nearly one million more will be needed in the next decade. High build costs and sector complexity restrict new supply, while 25% of facilities risk obsolescence due to age and tenant demands for automation and sustainability. Retrofitting ambient warehouses offers a partial solution. Strong demand from e-commerce, food and pharma is driving rents up 70% in five years. Investment appetite is growing, making cold storage a high-value, resilient asset class.
Industry Discussion on the National Food Security Strategy
On Friday 5 September, over twenty industry stakeholders, including the RWTA, met to discuss the National Food Security Strategy Discussion Paper.
Industry Discussion on the National Food Security Strategy
On Friday 5 September, over twenty industry stakeholders, including the RWTA, met to discuss the National Food Security Strategy Discussion Paper. This group expanded on participants involved in developing the recently released Green Paper by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. The purpose was to explore whether shared priorities could emerge to complement individual stakeholder submissions.
There was strong support for the discussion paper as a timely step toward a more resilient food system.
Attendees emphasised the need for a sharpened focus, identifying the security of critical inputs as the foundational priority for Australia’s food system. Addressing these core requirements was seen as essential to enable success across all other strategic goals.
Key areas of consensus included:
Establishing a systematic process to identify and prioritise vulnerabilities.
Recognising biosecurity as a standalone pillar of the strategy.
Formally elevating food security as a national security priority, ensuring industry insights are included in government decision-making and intelligence sharing.
Reframing the role of industry as critical infrastructure requiring strategic support rather than increasing cost-recovery models.
Strengthening regional preparedness through a place-based approach and building resilient Indo-Pacific trade links.
Stakeholders committed to supporting the development of a robust strategy, ensuring these shared priorities are reflected in submissions alongside individual perspectives.
FlowPower at the RWTA Conference & Exhibition
Take a few moments to listen to what FlowPower have in store for 2026
Gold Sponsor, Flow Power in the mix at the RWTA Conference and Exhibition, take a few moments to listen to what they have in store for 2026 to save you dollars!
NZCSA25 Conference
With the theme “Embracing AI and new technologies: What is the future of cold storage?”, the event showcased forward-thinking presentations, an innovative expo, and vibrant social gatherings including the gala dinner.
The RWTA would like to compliment the New Zealand Cold Storage Association’s NZCSA25 Conference, held from 24–26 August in Napier.
It was a resounding success, drawing a record 240 attendees. With the theme “Embracing AI and new technologies: What is the future of cold storage?”, the event showcased forward-thinking presentations, an innovative expo, and vibrant social gatherings including the gala dinner. This year, NZCSA trialled a shorter, sharper speaking format, which proved highly effective in capturing attention and sparking dialogue. The result was unprecedented member engagement, with conversations flowing more openly than ever before. NZCSA25 set a new benchmark for industry collaboration and innovation.
We recommend that you attend their conference next year at Christchurch, 2-4 August 26.
2025 GCCA Convention
The 2025 GCCA Convention, was held from 15–17 September at La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, Texas.
The 2025 GCCA Convention, was held from 15–17 September at La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, Texas, and it was an invaluable gathering for the global cold chain. It brought together industry leaders, and the program was designed to provide actionable strategies on the most pressing issues facing our sector today. Highlights included workforce development, with innovative solutions for recruitment and retention; energy management, focusing on reducing costs and boosting efficiency; and the latest in technology and automation, from WMS to AI. Attendees gained insights into regulatory compliance, ensuring they stay ahead of evolving standards. Make sure you don’t miss their next conference in Scottsdale Arizona on the 27-29April 2026.
One system. Three temperature zones. Endless possibilities.
Discover how Swisslog’s multi-temperature AutoStore solution reduces energy costs, optimises efficiency, and maximises storage capacity.
Swisslog AutoStore multi-temperature solutions
Efficient storage across frozen, chilled, and ambient temperatures
Swisslog’s latest multi-temperature AutoStore solution enables efficient storage across frozen, chilled, and ambient temperatures – all within one automated system.
For businesses in the cold chain and beyond, this solution reduces costs, improves accuracy, and enhances sustainability while managing multiple temperature zones seamlessly. As one of the world’s top AutoStore integrators, Swisslog brings proven expertise in food and beverage, e-grocery, e-commerce, retail, pharmaceuticals, and more.
How it works:
Zoned grid design: The AutoStore Multi-Temperature Solution divides the automated grid into distinct zones that operate at different temperatures.
Thermal control: This allows for the concurrent storage of ambient, refrigerated, and frozen goods within the same automated warehouse.
Robotic picking: Robots deliver the products directly to goods-to-person stations, minimising human labour, reducing picking times, and delivering accuracy that is regularly above 99%.
Benefits include:
Save energy and costs: Optimises energy use by eliminating the need for separate temperature-controlled facilities.
Increase storage density: Maximises capacity by combining different temperature requirements in a single footprint.
Boost efficiency: Shortens order fulfilment times and enhances productivity through automation.
Gain flexibility: Ideal for handling a diverse range of temperature-sensitive products, from food to pharmaceuticals.
Ensure accuracy and quality: Precise handling and temperature management preserve product freshness and integrity.
Case Study: La Réserve des Saveurs
The first Swisslog AutoStore Multi-Temperature Solution was installed at La Réserve des Saveurs in France, enabling the European food leader to completely rethink its operations, optimising its storage capacity, reducing its order delivery time to less than half a day, and reducing its carbon footprint.
This AutoStore solution enabled operators to do in one hour what they would previously do in a day
Find out more about how a Swisslog multi-temperature AutoStore solution can deliver benefits to your next project.
Swisslog is a proud member of the Refrigerated Warehouse & Transport Association of Australia (RWTA).
Swisslog Australia Pty Ltd.
Level 5, Building A, Rhodes Quarter,
1 Homebush Bay Drive, Rhodes NSW 2138
RWTA New Member Introduction – New Tech Logistics!
NewTech are a cold chain logistics company that operate from their head office in Sydney and have capability in Melbourne and Brisbane.
NewTech are a cold chain logistics company that operate from their head office in Sydney and have capability in Melbourne and Brisbane.
Growing at a rate of knots with new space pending in Sydney
Toyota Material Handling Interview
Diamond Sponsor, Toyota Material Handling, was on the front foot at the conference, and Steve Parbery was there with all the information you could need.
Diamond Sponsor, Toyota Material Handling, was on the front foot at the conference, and Steve Parbery was there with all the information you could need.
Watch as Steve speaks about the company, conference and what’s in store at TMHA!
Welcome Import Export TV
At Import Export TV, they’re passionate about supporting cold chain businesses. They offer affordable, tailored marketing packages designed especially for small and growing businesses - with an exclusive offer available to RWTA Members!
We were delighted to welcome Import Export TV as the official media partner for this year’s Conference & Exhibition.
At Import Export TV, they’re passionate about supporting businesses in the refrigerated warehouse and transport sector. They offer affordable, tailored marketing packages designed especially for small and growing businesses - with an exclusive offer available to RWTA Members.
Each package includes:
Professional content creation
Social media management
Ad campaign support
Exclusive for RWTA Members: 15% discount on all social media and marketing packages until 31st October 2025.
Let them help you build on the momentum from the conference and take your brand to the next level.
To find out more or to accept this limited time offer, contact Lawrence at lawrence@importexporttv.com/ Mob: 0433 559 258
Shane Jacobson and Healthy Heads ask, “How Ya Travellin’?
New Mental Health Podcast for the Industry
New Mental Health Podcast for the Industry
How Ya Travellin’? is a new podcast by Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, hosted by Shane Jacobson. It supports mental health in the transport, warehousing, and logistics sector by tackling stigma and encouraging open conversations. With relatable stories, expert tips, and a down-to-earth tone, it’s tailored to the unique challenges of our industry. Whether you're on the road, in the warehouse, or managing logistics, there’s something for everyone.
Listen now via the Healthy Heads App or on major podcast platforms—and share it with someone who might benefit.
Future-Proof Your Warehouse Operations: Tackle Challenges with a 3PL Industry-Specific WMS
In today’s fast-paced 3PL world, efficiency, visibility and customer responsiveness is essential.
In today’s fast-paced 3PL world, efficiency, visibility and customer responsiveness is essential.
Join Fusion5/Boltrics’ live webinar to explore the challenges 3PL providers face and how a dedicated WMS, TMS and FMS solution can future-proof your operations. Jan-Cornell van Ekris, Managing Director of Boltrics, will showcase a real-time demo of Boltrics’ Dynamics, built specifically for 3PL businesses. Discover how to move beyond paper-based processes, cut costs, and manage growing complexity with practical tools and insights. Learn how Boltrics automates warehouse and transport processes, why Business Central is the platform of choice, real-world examples of success, and how Fusion5 supports you locally.
Who should attend?
Operations and Warehouse Managers looking to streamline processes and boost efficiency.
Logistics and Transport Managers seeking smarter tools for real-time visibility and automation.
IT and Supply Chain Leaders exploring scalable tech to future-proof their 3PL operations.
Join Fusion5/Boltrics’ live webinar on 12th Sep
Please contact Tom Marshall should you have any questions:
E: tom.marshall@fusion5.com.au
M: +61 400 163 340
For RWTA members, and attendees to the RWTA Conference, please put (RWTA) after your company and you will go into a draw to win a Dan Murphy's Gift Hamper of your choice of up to $200.00.