CityPort Coldstores is officially complete and ready for occupation
A major milestone has been reached for Queensland’s cold chain infrastructure, with construction now complete at CityPort Coldstores, delivered by Modus Property Group.
CityPort Coldstores represents the largest speculative cold storage development ever offered in Queensland, responding to growing demand for modern, scalable temperature-controlled facilities across food, pharmaceutical, and logistics supply chains.
A major milestone has been reached for Queensland’s cold chain infrastructure, with construction now complete at CityPort Coldstores, delivered by Modus Property Group.
CityPort Coldstores represents the largest speculative cold storage development ever offered in Queensland, responding to growing demand for modern, scalable temperature-controlled facilities across food, pharmaceutical, and logistics supply chains.
The facility is available for immediate occupation, with flexibility to accommodate either a single large occupier or three subdivided tenancies starting from approximately 6,200 sqm.
Built for efficiency, scale, and margin performance
CityPort Coldstores has been designed with operational efficiency front of mind, offering a combination of freezer and chiller environments to support diverse cold chain requirements.
Key features include:
Best price per pallet in Southeast Queensland, supporting margin optimisation
Scalable storage suitable for seasonal peaks or long-term demand
Internal heights of approximately 11.5 metres, enabling high-density storage of up to seven pallets
Advanced temperature-controlled environments with a 50/50 freezer and chiller split
Six-metre-wide awnings for all-weather loading and unloading
29 dock levellers across three tenancies, supported by 15-metre-deep ante rooms
These design elements provide operators with the flexibility to scale, adapt, and optimise throughput without compromising compliance or efficiency.
Strategic TradeCoast location
Situated in the established industrial and logistics suburb of Morningside, CityPort Coldstores benefits from a prime TradeCoast location positioned between Brisbane’s CBD and the port.
The facility offers efficient access to key freight and logistics corridors, including:
Direct connectivity to the Port of Brisbane
Close proximity to Brisbane’s International and Domestic Airports
Access via major arterial routes including Lytton Road, the Gateway Motorway, and the Port of Brisbane Motorway
Importantly for operators, the site is accessed via a B-Double approved heavy vehicle route, allowing direct access for larger prime movers and interstate refrigerated logistics operations.
For more details, reach out to David Gibson, Partner 0431 119 602 david@moduspg.au or Henry Devine, Manager, 0408 745 466 henry@moduspg.au.
DON Smallgoods joins Virtual Power Plant to support grid reliability
DON Smallgoods has joined RWTA Member Enel X’s Virtual Power Plant (VPP), strengthening its approach to energy management while supporting electricity reliability for the broader community.
The Castlemaine facility, one of the largest employers in regional Victoria, will now play an active role in supporting the electricity network during peak demand periods, this is a practical example of how large energy users can contribute to Australia’s energy transition without compromising operations.
DON Smallgoods has joined RWTA Member Enel X’s Virtual Power Plant (VPP), strengthening its approach to energy management while supporting electricity reliability for the broader community.
The Castlemaine facility, one of the largest employers in regional Victoria, will now play an active role in supporting the electricity network during peak demand periods, this is a practical example of how large energy users can contribute to Australia’s energy transition without compromising operations.
How Virtual Power Plants work
Virtual Power Plants provide the same stabilising effect as a traditional power station, but instead of generating energy, they reduce demand when the grid is under pressure.
By coordinating multiple sites to temporarily lower electricity use at the same time, VPPs can ease peak demand, improve system reliability and support the integration of renewable energy into the grid.
Flexible energy use without impacting production
Working with Enel X, DON Smallgoods identified two key ways to participate in the VPP:
Temporarily powering down refrigeration units, within strict and safe operating parameters
Repurposing on-site co-generation units as a flexible energy resource when required
These measures allow DON to respond to grid needs while maintaining food safety, product integrity and production continuity.
Sean Kenny, Operations Director at DON Smallgoods, said joining the VPP was a practical step toward smarter energy use.
“By being flexible with our electricity use, we’re helping to strengthen the grid as it transitions to renewables and contribute to electricity reliability for our community. It’s a practical example of our commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.”
Turning operational flexibility into value
Large energy users participating in VPPs are compensated for short-term reductions in electricity use, creating a fast, reliable and cost-effective way to address supply shortfalls.
As a major food manufacturer, DON’s participation highlights how industrial operations can balance sustainability goals with operational excellence, proving the two can go hand in hand.
DON Smallgoods is the third George Weston Foods business to join the Enel X VPP, following Tip Top and Mauri, reinforcing the group’s broader commitment to a reliable, resilient and lower-carbon energy system.
Enel X’s VPP currently manages more than 900 MW across over 670 sites in Australia and New Zealand, helping organisations turn operational flexibility into measurable value as energy systems evolve.
Like to know how this could work for your business? Be in touch with Enel X NOW and call
Jamie Catt, BDM, Jamie.catt@enel.com 0497 395 750.
Stonepeak launches Peregrine Cold Logistics: What it means for the future of the Asia–Pacific cold chain
A major development has emerged in the global cold chain landscape, with Stonepeak announcing the launch of Peregrine Cold Logistics, a new specialist platform set to expand temperature-controlled infrastructure across Asia Pacific and the Global Cold Chain.
A major development has emerged in the global cold chain landscape, with Stonepeak announcing the launch of Peregrine Cold Logistics, a new specialist platform set to expand temperature-controlled infrastructure across Asia Pacific and the Global Cold Chain.
Headquartered in Singapore, Peregrine plans to acquire, upgrade and develop cold storage and logistics assets across ASEAN, North Asia, and the Gulf region. Their first acquisition, Pinnacle Cold Storage in the Philippines, signals a strong growth pathway into markets where demand for high-quality food infrastructure continues to rise.
With a leadership team boasting more than 30 years of experience, Peregrine aims to lift operational standards, sustainability performance, and modern facility development. Their focus aligns with global trends RWTA members are actively navigating regarding food safety, digitalisation, energy efficiency, and capacity expansion.
It is notable that Jeff Hogarth, an RWTA Life Member and presently a Board member of the RWTA, is the CEO of Peregrine.
He commented that “Peregrine was founded with a clear mission: to redefine cold chain logistics across Asia Pacific and the GCC by delivering first-rate infrastructure, fostering strong local partnerships, and enabling the safe, efficient, and sustainable movement of food and essential goods.
We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Stonepeak, a leading global infrastructure investor with deep cold chain expertise, a broad regional footprint, and proven platform-building experience.
As rising standards for food safety and quality continue to drive demand for modern, purpose-built facilities managed by experienced operators, Peregrine is exceptionally well positioned to become a regional leader – not only in scale, but in innovation, reliability, and sustainability.
Why this matters for RWTA members
Strengthens Australia’s strategic position within the broader Indo-Pacific cold chain
Provides insight into capital flows shaping the next generation of cold-chain assets
Highlights regional trends influencing investment, technology, and sustainability
Reinforces global collaboration and benchmarking opportunities for members
Demonstrates rising international demand for modern, purpose-built, compliant facilities
As global players expand in the region, opportunities for partnership, knowledge exchange and cross-market innovation will continue to grow supporting the resilience and competitiveness of Australia’s cold chain sector.
Extraordinary efficiency for new Melbourne cold storage facility
Building a giant cold store in Melbourne is a challenge, especially with potentially huge variations in ambient temperatures experienced during the Melbourne cool winters and hot summers, sometimes exceeding 40°C.
Building a giant cold store in Melbourne is a challenge, especially with potentially huge variations in ambient temperatures experienced during the Melbourne cool winters and hot summers, sometimes exceeding 40°C.
Under these conditions, it is essential for compressor systems, that can be responsible for up to 80% of the total plant power consumption, to be flexible and efficient.
Fortunately, the GEA Grasso V1800 reciprocating compressors are designed for just such a job.
The new Premier Melbourne Cold Storage facility, just 10 km from the city centre, provides 22,141 m2 of cold storage space including both frozen (-25°C) and chilled (+2°C) areas and a huge, 200m-long staging area for temporary storage under optimal conditions. Together they offer 230,000m3 of cold storage capacity. The GEA Grasso V1800, 10-cylinder reciprocating compressors at the heart of the plant, have excellent part-load performance and a wide Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) range for outstanding energy efficiency with minimal oil carry over ensuring evaporator performance is and remains at a premium.
Using ammonia (NH3) in a centralized, low charge refrigerating plant delivers PFAS-free, zero ODP, and zero GWP refrigeration performance with a predicted Specific Energy Consumption (SEC) of only 8-9 kWh·m-3·year-1, compared to typical averages of 20-40 kWh·m⁻³·year⁻¹- resulting in annual energy costs that are more than 50% lower than conventional cold stores.
Capital and operational costs have been reduced thanks to optimized infrastructure and extended service intervals, based on real-time compressor monitoring.
These improvements contribute to a lower total cost of ownership, while maintaining high levels of efficiency and reliability.
Once again, the Scantec Refrigeration Technologies team, together with GEA, has combined its expertise with leading engineering to deliver outstanding results.
How AGVs Are Reshaping Australia’s Refrigerated Warehouses
Tony Raggio, Dematic ANZ's Sales Manager AGVs talks about the new range, the benefits realised by Cold Storage facilities with AGVs, including reduced reliance on labour, increase operational visibility and control, improved safety and reduced product damage.
Dematic has implemented a number of Automated Guided systems (AGVs) in Cold Storage facilities in ANZ, and has just released a new range of models specifically aimed at brownfield sites.
Tony Raggio, Dematic ANZ's Sales Manager AGVs talks about the new range, the benefits realised by Cold Storage facilities with AGVs, including reduced reliance on labour, increase operational visibility and control, improved safety and reduced product damage. A critical question for those considering implementing AGVs, Tony also talks about integrating Dematic's AGV Manage+ warehouse control system into customers' WMS and ERP systems.
Get in touch with Tony to know more:
Tony Raggio
General Manager Sales – Mobile Automation ANZ
Dematic
M: 0403 222 697
Leading Global Cold Storage Provider Adopts Dematic Voice Technology ToTransform Warehouse Operations
Dematic, a global leader in supply chain automation and voice technology solutions, has announced that a leading global cold storage provider has implemented its Dematic Voice solution at two key distribution centres.
Dematic, a global leader in supply chain automation and voice technology solutions, has announced that a leading global cold storage provider has implemented its Dematic Voice solution at two key distribution centres. The rollout includes the customer’s Melbourne site, which is its largest distribution centre in the Southern Hemisphere, and its site in Adelaide, South Australia.
The company, a worldwide leader in temperature-controlled warehousing and logistics, operates more than 450 facilities across 18 countries. Recognised for its critical role in the global food supply chain, the solution rollout follows a successful proof of concept at both locations, where Dematic Voice demonstrated its ability to improve operational efficiency, enhance user satisfaction, and address longstanding challenges. With features such as advanced voice recognition and gamified workflows, the solution streamlines processes across diverse operational environments.
“The feedback from our customer’s operations team was overwhelmingly positive,” says Robert Deane, Connect Workforce Solutions (CWS™) Sales Manager Southern Region & New Zealand at Dematic ANZ. “Operators were impressed by the system’s voice recognition capabilities and intuitive interface. One of the most common questions our customer received from their team was, ‘When can we start using this?’ The success of the proof of concept confirmed that Dematic Voice was the right choice.”
From challenges to solutions
Dematic Voice will replace a legacy system that was creating inefficiencies and operational challenges. The new solution introduces advanced features that increase productivity, streamline workflows, engage users, and improve accuracy.
“Our data shows that companies using voice technology as part of a broader warehouse optimisation strategy see productivity gains of 25–35% for case picking and piece picking,” says Deane. “This is especially important for facilities like our customer’s site in Melbourne, where operational scale requires extremely high efficiency.”
Scantec, Proven reduction of Energy Costs
During the 2025 RWTA Conference & Exhibition, Stefan Jensen highlighted how Scantec, using their expertise in industrial refrigeration, environment control and electronics to save thousands.
During the 2025 RWTA Conference & Exhibition, Stefan Jensen highlighted how Scantec, using their expertise in industrial refrigeration, environment control and electronics to save thousands.
Perth Golf Day
Record numbers in attendance, all armed with smiles and ready for a fabulous day on the green - see all the photos !
The RWTA had a golf day in Perth after a hiatus of many years, and it did not disappoint!
Record numbers in attendance, all armed with smiles and ready for a fabulous day on the green- see the photos below!
Mental Health First Aid Training
Mental Wealth at Work specialise in workplace mental health and deliver a range of training, education and consulting services to help your workplace become more mentally healthy.
Mental Wealth at Work specialise in workplace mental health and deliver a range of training, education and consulting services to help your workplace become more mentally healthy. Investing in their programmes shows your staff you genuinely care about their wellbeing, not just their output.
Mental Wealth at Work turns “mental health” from a tick-box exercise into a real competitive advantage for your business.
Their trainers give your people practical tools to spot the signs of struggle early and confidently step in with the right kind of support.
Their workshops are tailored to the cold chain industry, so the conversations feel real, relevant and immediately usable on the job.
Teams walk away more connected, more resilient and far better equipped to handle pressure, conflict and change.
Book your people in and start building a culture where it’s normal to speak up, support each other and actually thrive at work.
The first courses for 2026 are available to book below:
'Payday' superannuation changes to start 1 July 2026
The Commonwealth Parliament has recently passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Payday Superannuation) Bill 2025 and the Superannuation Guarantee Charge Amendment Bill 2025.
The Commonwealth Parliament has recently passed the Treasury Laws Amendment (Payday Superannuation) Bill 2025 and the Superannuation Guarantee Charge Amendment Bill 2025.
The changes are intended to encourage employers to make superannuation guarantee contributions at the same time that they pay employees their wages.
More specifically, superannuation guarantee contributions will need to be received by an employee's complying superannuation fund and be able to be allocated to that employee's account within a specified period (usually seven business days) after the employer pays the employee their 'qualifying earnings'.
There are a range of circumstances in which a longer period applies. The new obligations are a change from the long-standing requirement for superannuation contributions to be paid quarterly.
Practically speaking, employers will best minimise their risks of having a superannuation guarantee charge assessed if they ensure contributions are made on payday.
The changes will commence on 1 July 2026.
We have organised an opportunity for Road Freight NSW Members to participate in a webinar co-presented by the Australian Industry Group and AustralianSuper on 2 December from 11.00am to Midday that will explain the changes and assist members to prepare to implement the new payday superannuation framework. Register using the above link, and please note, numbers are limited.
Click here for the:
‘Payday’ superannuation changes to start 1 July 2026 Circular Advice from Australian Industry Group for our members.
Revolutionising Cold Chain Efficiency: The Power of Experion’s Digital Transformation
See how Experion is redefining transport and warehouse operations through intelligent digitisation.
Step inside the future of logistics where innovation meets precision - see how Experion is redefining transport and warehouse operations through intelligent digitisation.
From real-time tracking to seamless automation, this is technology designed to make every movement smarter, faster, and more sustainable.
Don’t just move goods - move forward with Experion’s digital edge.
RWTA Victorian Golf Day, a swinging success!
It was a fantastic day on the green, with a record-breaking 111 players enjoying great golf and forging new business connections.
It was a fantastic day on the green, with a record-breaking 111 players enjoying great golf and forging new business connections.
Thank you again to our Sponsors!
A Cool New Era: Daniel Wilton Appointed CEO of Transport Refrigeration Services.
Transport Refrigeration Services (TRS) has announced the appointment of Daniel Wilton as its new Chief Executive Officer
Transport Refrigeration Services (TRS) has announced the appointment of Daniel Wilton as its new Chief Executive Officer - a move that signals strong leadership continuity and confidence in the company’s future. Known for his strategic vision and commitment to both people and performance, Daniel has been instrumental in TRS’s national growth and service excellence. Read more about his appointment and TRS’s next chapter of innovation and expansion.
Labourforce talks Flexible workforce options.
18 years supporting the Cold Chain, Labourforce talks Flexible workforce options.
During the 2025 RWTA Conference & Exhibition, Fleming Hansen took the opportunity to share insights about Labourforce’s impressive 18 years of dedicated support to the Cold Chain industry, highlighting their commitment to providing flexible workforce solutions that adapt to the evolving needs of the sector.
The hidden impact of safety footwear on your workforce
The Badger Team recently hosted a webinar with podiatrist and biomechanics expert Talysha Reeve that revealed how poor safety footwear design and fit quietly drives lower-limb injuries, absenteeism and productivity decline in warehousing and logistics.
The Badger Team recently hosted a webinar with podiatrist and biomechanics expert Talysha Reeve that revealed how poor safety footwear design and fit quietly drives lower-limb injuries, absenteeism and productivity decline in warehousing and logistics.
Check out the recording today - this is practical, actionable insight for any safety-conscious operations team.
For more information please contact:
Dwayne Devenish
Sales Director
1300 305 275
+61 481 906 437
Adelaide Chain of Responsibility Event
We were delighted to get together in Adelaide last week with our Member Expert, Chris Catchpole to discuss the Chain of Responsibility with Adelaide members.
We were delighted to get together in Adelaide last week with our Member Expert, Chris Catchpole to discuss the Chain of Responsibility with Adelaide members.
Did you know, we have online resources for you as well, check this out https://rwta-membership.com.au/Chain-of-Responsibility
HVNL Reform Open For Consultation until 1st DEC 25
As part of the HVNL reform, heavy vehicle accreditation is transitioning from a prescriptive, compliance-based approach to a risk-based system focused on safety management.
As part of the HVNL reform, heavy vehicle accreditation is transitioning from a prescriptive, compliance-based approach to a risk-based system focused on safety management.
To support this shift, the National Transport Commission (NTC) has developed key documents, including:
SMS Standard: Outlines performance outcomes for compliant safety management systems.
Schedule 1 – SMS Evidence Requirements: Details evidence expectations and supports the NHVR’s assessment process.
Standard for Alternative Compliance Hours: Establishes a framework for alternative fatigue compliance and the use of the Risk Classification System.
Ministerial Guidelines for Heavy Vehicle Accreditation (Ministerial Guidelines): Directs the NHVR’s accreditation decisions.
Complementing these, the NHVR has developed the National Audit Standard (NAS) to provide a consistent, impartial audit framework for SMS and ACA requirements.
The draft NAS, along with the Ministerial Guidelines and SMS Standard, is now open for public consultation until Monday, 1 December.
This is a critical opportunity for operators and industry stakeholders to provide feedback and help ensure the framework is clear, practical, and supports consistent, risk-based auditing that strengthens safety and compliance outcomes.
We invite you to:
Review the standards and guidelines
Share your feedback to help shape a safer, more efficient accreditation system.
You can find the consultation package and share your feedback through the NTC’s project webpage.
Your input is vital to shaping the future of heavy vehicle accreditation.
Keep It Cool Consulting - Building a Smarter, Stronger Cold Chain
In this edition of the Chilled-Out Chronicles, we chat with Adam Wade, founder of Keep It Cool Consulting and author of Cold Logic — to explore how practical know-how and smarter systems are transforming the Australian cold chain.
In this edition of the Chilled-Out Chronicles, we chat with Adam Wade, founder of Keep It Cool Consulting and author of Cold Logic — to explore how practical know-how and smarter systems are transforming the Australian cold chain. With nearly a decade of hands-on experience, Adam has helped operators bridge the gap between compliance and performance through training, benchmarking, and real-world problem solving. His mission? To build a cold chain that’s not just compliant, but connected, transparent, and ready for the future. Read more below and don’t miss the video!
Keep It Cool Consulting Pty Ltd, founded by cold chain specialist Adam Wade, helps refrigerated transport and warehouse operators improve temperature control, compliance, and food quality across the supply chain.
Adam is also the author of Cold Logic – Building Knowledge, Performance and Compliance in the Australian Cold Chain, a practical reference that explores how smarter processes, training, equipment, and technology can build a stronger, more resilient cold chain.
Buy the book here: https://buy.stripe.com/4gM7sN6bO8cq1VM5qw6Zy01
Contact:
Adam Wade
Phone +61 416082092
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.