Vale – Hugh McMaster

We advise of the passing of Hugh McMaster, Treasurer/Secretary of the Australian Road Transport Industrial Organisation (ARTIO) NSW from 2008 to 2021, who passed away peacefully on 19 February 2026, surrounded by his family.

Hugh is survived by his wife Nadia, daughters Katherine and Jennifer, and grandchildren Zadia, Joanna and Melody.

Hugh made a significant contribution to the heavy transport industry over many years.

His work focused on improving safety standards across the sector, including fatigue management, Chain of Responsibility, fleet safety systems and load restraint practices.

He worked constructively with industry, regulators and government bodies to strengthen compliance frameworks and promote safer operating environments for transport operators and their personnel.

As Treasurer/Secretary of ARTIO NSW, Hugh played a central role in establishing and growing the organisation, guiding its formal registration under NSW industrial law and building a credible membership base representing employers and principal contractors. He also contributed to broader industry initiatives relating to industrial relations, superannuation and regulatory reform, and served as a Board Member of TWU Super from 2008 to 2021.

Hugh’s commitment to improving standards within the heavy transport sector leaves a lasting legacy.

We extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.