A stalwart of the waste transport industry has been recognised with one of the highest honours in Victorian freight and logistics.
Attendees gathered recently for the annual Victorian Transport Association (VTA) President’s Dinner.
James Whelan, Managing Director of Whelan Kartaway, has been awarded the 2025 WFD Chalmers Award – the VTA’s most prestigious accolade, recognising his decades of service, leadership and commitment to the transport and waste management industries.
Presented in front of industry peers at Melbourne’s historic Hotel Windsor, the award honours the late Daryl Chalmers, who contributed more than 40 years of service to the VTA Executive Council.
The evening, supported by long-standing sponsor Freighter Group, served as a celebration not only of Whelan’s achievements but of the wider contributions being made across the sector.
Speaking at the event, VTA CEO Peter Anderson, paid tribute to Whelan’s consistent leadership and deep industry knowledge.
“James has been rock solid in his support and leadership,” said Anderson.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working directly with him for more than 12 years. He is one of the most deserving recipients we’ve ever had.”
The award was presented jointly by Anderson, VTA President Dennis Ryan, and Gary Chalmers – son of the award’s namesake.
In his acceptance speech, Whelan spoke with humility and pride, reflecting on his family’s legacy in the waste transport sector and his own commitment to improving the industry over time.
“This industry has been good to my family,” said Whelan.
“From day one, I was taught to ask: ‘What can we do to make the industry better for everybody?’ That principle has stayed with me throughout my career.”
Whelan also offered insight into the evolving challenges and opportunities the waste sector faces, citing the exponential rise in landfill levies from just $2 per tonne in the mid-90s to upwards of $170 today.
“While landfills often get a bad rap, they’ve contributed billions to the state and helped support recycling initiatives,” he said.
“It’s an honour to be recognised with this award and to be part of an industry that continues to adapt and contribute in meaningful ways.”
The evening also marked the first President’s Dinner address by newly appointed VTA President Dennis Ryan, who acknowledged the Association’s major milestones over the past year from advocacy and policy wins to workforce development programs.
“From securing the revocation of permit costs from January 1, 2026, to delivering over 400 job-ready drivers through our Driver Delivery program, including more than 100 women, we’ve had a productive year,” said Ryan.
At the federal level, Ryan highlighted the VTA’s active involvement in national industrial relations reform via ARTIO, further solidifying the organisation’s influence on policy shaping.
Importantly, Ryan underscored the need for succession planning and engaging the next generation of transport professionals.
“To remain strong and relevant, we must bring younger staff into the fold and ensure they have the opportunity to shape the industry’s future.”
In other news, BagTrans and Spectrum Transport were transitioned to Border Express.
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.JPG)
.png){kind=small}
