ARA hosts 160-strong rail delegation at InnoTrans in Berlin

Australasian Railway Association

The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) is leading a trade delegation of more than 160 representatives to the world’s largest rail industry trade show, InnoTrans, which opens in Berlin tomorrow.

The delegation from 86 Australian and New Zealand organisations, including passenger and rail freight operators, contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, will showcase the latest innovations and developments in rail from around the globe.

ARA Chief Executive Officer Caroline Wilkie said the Australian rail industry is experiencing a once-in-a-generation investment pipeline of $155 billion to 2037 as new projects are delivered to support future transport needs.

“The Australian trade delegation provides an invaluable opportunity for delegates to share information and learn more about the innovation, technology and new solutions being implemented across the global rail industry,” Ms Wilkie said.

“Our members are at the forefront of rail innovation. As the country moves towards a net zero future, Australian rail organisations are implementing more sustainable transport solutions that improve environmental, safety and social outcomes.

“InnoTrans is a great opportunity to connect with the rail businesses forging the future of transport,” she said.

The Australian Rail Pavilion will be located in Hall 10.1, Stand 200 from Tuesday 24 – Friday 27 September 2024 as part of InnoTrans.

A Company Capability Directory and matrix of capabilities has been developed to showcase delegation organisations on the global stage.

The ARA will host three networking functions at the stand during the week, including:

• Tuesday 24 September from 4.30pm-6pm: Networking drinks, hosted by Downer;
• Wednesday 25 September from midday-1pm: Stand up networking lunch, hosted by the ARA;
• Thursday 26 from 9am-10.30am: Breakfast (sweet and savoury crepes), hosted by John Holland Group.

The ARA will host visits to key exhibitors during the week, including to Alstom, Wabtec, Siemens, Talgo and Hitachi.

Pre-conference study tours for delegation members will also be held on Monday September 23 at Berlin Main Station, hosted by DB, as well as to a Siemens Berlin factory.

DB will provide an overview of the rail industry in Germany, a presentation on the DB business model and German Strong Rail Strategy plus a briefing on the incredible history and recent developments of Central Station, Berlin, followed by a station tour.

At its facility within the heart of Berlin, Siemens will showcase its ETCS offerings for members of the Australian delegation including its TC Lina, a demo locomotive that Siemens has retrofitted with ETCS.

The ARA has more than 230 members in Australia and New Zealand, covering every aspect of the rail supply chain, including passenger and freight operators, track owners, managers, consultants, contractors and suppliers. 

The ARA is the voice for the rail industry and is committed to advancing issues critical to the Australasian rail industry’s collective success and ensuring rail is at the forefront of government transport policy and investment. 

For more information on the Australian rail delegation, visit our website.