Drury and Paerātā Stations
2025-10-30 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Victoria
Overview
Join the New Zealand Chapter of the Railway Technical Society of Australasia (RTSA) online for this webinar on Drury and Paerātā Stations.
📆 Thursday 30 October
⏰ 12 – 1pm (NZDT)
🌏 Online
🎫 Register here
Event Description
KiwiRail are delivering a transformative expansion of Auckland’s southern rail corridor through the design and construction of three new stations located between Drury and Paerātā (Drury, Ngākōroa and Paerātā Station). This presentation will explore how Aurecon and KiwiRail worked collaboratively to meet the growing demand for sustainable and accessible transport in the region.
The session will delve into the integrated approach to planning, design, and delivery; balancing technical complexity with community needs, iwi engagement, and long-term network resilience. Attendees will gain insights into design innovation, programme, and construction challenges.
Speakers
Alpesh Patel is a Civil Engineer with over 12 years of experience in multidisciplinary design and site supervision of civil infrastructure. He possesses a thorough understanding of the project lifecycle, from design to construction, gained through his work in design and build environments.
Ross Kaufusi is a Chartered Civil Structural Engineer and currently the Engineering Design Lead – Civil at KiwiRail. He has extensive experience delivering complex multidisciplinary projects, including the Papakura to Pukekohe Electrification project. Ross brings a strong focus on collaboration and technical excellence to his work, ensuring robust and sustainable infrastructure outcomes.

Human factors in focus: enhancing maintenance and manufacturing performance
2025-10-29 17:30 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Engineers Australia Melbourne, Level 26/ 181 William Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
Overview
Join us in-person at Engineers Australia in Melbourne for an insightful session exploring the critical role of Human Factors in maintenance and manufacturing. This event will delve into how understanding human capabilities, limitations, and behaviours can lead to safer, more efficient, and more resilient systems.
Industry experts will share practical strategies for integrating Human Factors into design, procedures, and training, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application. Whether you’re in engineering, operations, or safety, this event will equip you with the tools to drive human-centered improvements across your organisation.
Please register using the link at the bottom of the page.
Learning outcomes
In this event, you will learn:

the core principles of human factors – participants will gain foundational knowledge of human factors and how they influence safety, performance, and decision-making in maintenance and manufacturing environments.
identify and mitigate human error risks – attendees will learn to recognise common human error traps and apply practical strategies to reduce risk through better design, procedures, and work environments,
integrate human-centred design into operations – participants will explore methods for embedding human factors into maintenance and manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, reliability, and workforce well-being.

Program
In-person:

5.30 pm AEDT: Guest arrivals and registrations
6.00 pm AEDT: Presentation begins
6.45 pm AEDT: Q/A begins
7.00 pm AEDT: Event close

About the speakers

Ray Misa
Associate Director / Human Factors Team Manager, Archservices

Stuart Dickinson
Principal Consultant, Human Risk Solutions

Cara Murphy
Transportation Market Director for AtkinsRéalis, Australia and New Zealand

From Sensors to Solutions: Advancing Track and Rolling Stock Condition Monitoring
2025-10-23 18:00 - 19:30 (Australia/Adelaide) | Victoria
Hybrid Event | In-person & Virtual | Presented by Andrew Meyer, ENSCO Rail Australia
Join us for a forward-looking session exploring how rail condition monitoring is evolving—from raw sensor data to real-time actionable insights across track and rolling stock systems.
📅 Details

Date & Time: Thursday 23 October 2025 @ 6pm
Format: Hybrid (In-person + Virtual)
Venue: Engineers Australia Level 11, 108 King William Street, Adelaide / Online via webinar
Cost: Free for members – Register via From Sensors to Solutions | Engineers Australia

🔧 Event Overview
Rail operators today need more than just isolated measurements—they need intelligence. Advances in sensor technology, autonomous inspection, imaging, LiDAR, and data analytics are enabling a shift from periodic checks to continuous asset awareness.
In this talk, Andrew Meyer will:

Showcase autonomous track inspection systems embedded in revenue trains
Explore wayside monitoring of wheels, brakes, and bogies beyond simple thresholds
Demonstrate integration of these systems into asset management frameworks
Highlight how data is turned into maintenance decisions that improve safety, reliability, and cost efficiency

🧑‍💼 About the Speaker – Andrew Meyer
Andrew Meyer is Senior Director of Business Development at ENSCO Rail Australia and a Chartered Professional Engineer with over 20 years’ experience across engineering, product development, and international operations.
Andrew holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechatronics (University of Adelaide) and has led innovation roles at Beena Vision, Trackside Intelligence, and ENSCO across Asia, Europe, and Australia. He now works with rail customers across the Asia-Pacific region to deploy advanced inspection and monitoring systems.

Freight Train Aerodynamics
2025-10-22 17:00 - 18:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Virtual / On-line
Overview
The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is conducting extensive research into the aerodynamics of freight trains, aiming to improve operational efficiency and safety. Findings from large European Union research projects—including Shift2Rail FR8RAIL IV and Europe’s Rail FP5 TRANS4M-R—along with specific industrial investigations, will be presented. Insights are drawn from on-rail experiments using the DLR FR8-LAB (a sensor-equipped swap-body container), advanced wind-tunnel experiments, and novel moving-model tests that realistically simulate vehicle-infrastructure interactions. The presentation will cover:

Effects of container loading on efficiency, slipstream, and tunnel pressure
Aerodynamic optimization of wagon geometries
Crosswind stability challenges
Future perspectives from an aerodynamic standpoint

This presentation is brought to you by the RTSA Queensland Chapter.
Learning Outcomes

Understand the current aerodynamic limitations of freight trains and opportunities for improvement.
Recognise how real-world operating conditions impact aerodynamic performance.
Learn how novel laboratory and simulation methods can inform practical efficiency and safety improvements.

Speaker

Dr James R. Bell is a ground-vehicle aerodynamicist from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Göttingen, Germany at the Institute of Aerodynamics and Flow Technology. He achieved his doctorate on the topic of the slipstream and unsteady wake structure of high-speed trains at Monash University, Australia in 2016.
His area of expertise is experimental aerodynamics, particularly wind-tunnel, moving-model and full-scale experimental campaigns, investigating high-speed and freight trains, heavy-vehicle and automotive aerodynamic problems, with the motivation of improving operational efficiency and safety.
Price
Member: Free
Technical Society Member: Free
Student Member: Free
Non-Member: $30.00

Bus tour of the Thornlie-Cockburn Link (TCL)
2025-10-18 09:00 - 12:00 (Australia/Perth) | Victoria
The RTSA WA chapter invites you to join a bus tour of the Thornlie-Cockburn Link (TCL).
This site visit is a bus tour of the TCL alignment and will focus on an in-depth overview of the design and construction of a pair each of freight and passenger rail each in a pre-existing corridor in brownfield conditions. It will be hosted by two senior leaders involved in the project: Graham Holden and Maneesh Gupta.
Please register below, limited to 30 places
Overview
The METRONET Thornlie-Cockburn Link spans 17 km and marks the first ever connection between two separate branches of the ‘star’ shaped Perth passenger rail network.
Previously, the Thornlie line was a single (dual direction) train line that spurred from the Beckenham station and terminated at Thornlie Station. The TCL project involved the duplication of this line as well as the extension of this line to Cockburn station.
This involved modifications to the existing Thornlie and Cockburn stations as well as the construction of two new stations at Nicholson and Ranford Rd. The project also runs through two existing tunnels at Kenwick and Glen Iris.
This brownfield project faced many challenges from the relocation of the existing freight rail to the realignment of the existing Mandurah line to fit the new electrified passenger tracks.
The rail line opened for passenger services on 9th June 2025 and is fully operational.
Learning Outcomes
Participants will gain an insight into:

The design and construction of passenger and freight railway.
Challenges of design and construction in brownfield conditions.
Innovations, safety, and community benefits.

About the Speakers
Graham Holden
Graham Holden is Engineering Manager for the NEWest Alliance which delivered the Thornlie-Cockburn Link and the Yanchep Rail Extension projects for the Public Transport Authority. Graham has more than 35 years’ experience in rail across engineering delivery, design, maintenance and operations. He is a Chartered Engineer, EngExec and Fellow of Engineers Australia and holds a Masters degree in Rail Systems Engineering. Graham is a past Executive Chair of the RTSA and was the Conference Organising Committee Chair of CORE2021 Conference on Railway Excellence, held here in Perth. He is also a sessional lecturer in railway engineering at Edith Cowan University.
Maneesh Gupta
A business leader, Chartered Professional Engineer and senior project manager/project director with over 25 years’ experience in the freight and transit rail industries. This includes 11 years in operation and maintenance of rail network assets with strong focus on railway track maintenance As DM/PM/PD or technical lead, Maneesh has delivered over 150 rail projects of various sizes and complexity in WA in the last 15 years including freight and passenger rail projects. Maneesh is well known in the industry for his strong technical advisory skills for design, upgrade and maintenance of below rail infrastructure. On YRE and TCL Projects Maneesh initially led multiple design packages and subsequently led the design team as the DJV Design Director.
Location
🌏 Nicholson Station (No fees for parking on weekends)
Date and Time
📆 Saturday, 18th October 2025
⏰ 9am – 12pm
RIW Card or PTA SW Accreditation
An active RIW card or PTA SW accreditation is not required for this site visit as it will not be held inside the rail corridor.
PPE Requirements
The following PPE is required:

Enclosed shoes
Orange hi vis top (vest, shirt or jacket)
Clothing suitable for the weather on the day

Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility (KAMF) Site Visit
2025-10-14 09:30 - 12:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility, Kangy Angy Maintenance Centre, Kangy Angy, NSW, 2258, Australia
Site Visit to the Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility
The RTSA NSW/ACT Chapter is pleased to invite you to our upcoming site visit to Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility, which will be held on 14th of October from 9:30am – 12:30pm.
UGL and TfNSW are hosting a site visit to the Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility which currently primarily maintains the New Intercity Fleet. The site visit will include a tour of the facility and its functions and wrapping up with a short lessons learnt session with the project team. The site visit will commence at 9:30pm and concludes at 12:30pm. Attendees are expected to arrange their own travel arrangements to the facility.
Key information
📆 9:30am-12:30pm AEDT Tuesday, 14th October 2025
🌏 Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility, Kangy Angy 2258
🎫 RSVP below
PPE Requirements
All attendees must wear full site gear, including:

Steel cap boots
Long pants
Collared long-sleeve shirts
Orange safety vests
Safety glasses
Gloves
Helmets

There is also a zero drug & Alcohol requirement. Attendees do not have to have RIW cards, however, if they do, are encouraged to bring them to make the site induction smoother.
For any enquiries, please contact the NSW/ACT RTSA email address nsw@rtsa.com.au

Monash IRT tour and technical presentations
2025-10-08 15:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Monash Institute of Railway Technology (IRT), Monash University Clayton Campus, 14 Alliance Lane, , Monash University Clayton Campus, Melbourne, Australia
Join the RTSA and Monash Institute of Railway Technology (IRT) for an engaging afternoon exploring cutting-edge developments in rail innovation, technology, and safety. This event will feature guided tours of IRT’s world-class research and testing facilities, insights from the Monash Rail Express (MREx) student team, and two thought-provoking technical presentations focused on improving safety at level crossings and enhancing locomotive visibility.
With expert speakers from Monash IRT and opportunities to network with industry professionals, researchers, and students, this is a unique opportunity to engage with the future of rail in Australia.
We look forward to welcoming you for an informative and inspiring event.
Program Schedule
3:00 PM – Arrival and Welcome
Venue: Lecture Theatre E7, Engineering Building 72, 14 Alliance Lane, Monash University Clayton
Campus
• Registration, Foyer
• Welcome address by Professor Ravi Ravitharan, Director of IRT
• Safety induction and overview of the program
• Closed Shoe Required – No other PPE required for the Site Tour
3:15 PM – Guided Tour of Monash IRT Facilities in Small Groups
1. Rail Sustainability Innovation Lab
2. Rail Digital Twin & Modelling Lab
3. Railway Manufacturing and Testing Lab
4. Railway Manufacturing Workshop
5. Railway Metallurgical Lab
4:30 PM – Meet the Monash Rail Express (MREx) Student Team
Venue: Lecture Theatre E7, Engineering Building 72, 14 Alliance Lane
• Outline of the MREx team
• Details of the International Competition
• Next Steps
• Q&A
5:00 PM – Refreshments & Networking
Venue: Lecture Theatre E7 Foyer, Engineering Building 72, 14 Alliance Lane, Monash University
Clayton Campus
• Light refreshments served
5:30 PM – Technical Presentations
Venue: Lecture Theatre E7, Engineering Building 72, 14 Alliance Lane, Monash University Clayton
Campus
5:30 PM – Introduction by RTSA
5:35 PM – Presentation 1: ’Seeing What We’ve Been Missing: Technology-Driven Insights into
Passive Level Crossing Risk’
Synopsis:
Level crossings remain one of the highest-risk elements across the Australian rail network. With over 18,000 crossings nationwide, full grade separation is financially unfeasible. Current safety approaches rely heavily on historical accident and near-miss data, which can lead to reactive decision-making and an incomplete understanding of the underlying risk factors. This presentation explores how emerging technologies can provide deeper insight into the conditions and behaviours that drive risk at passive level crossings. By moving beyond traditional metrics, we can better evaluate the effectiveness of existing controls and support the development of scalable, cost-effective interventions that improve safety across the network.
Speaker: Dr Nithurshan Nadarajah, Deputy Director, Innovation
Nithurshan is the Deputy Director at the Monash Institute of Railway Technology, with over a decade of experience driving innovation, safety, and strategic asset management in rail. He leads cross-functional teams to deliver data-driven transformation in condition monitoring, product development, and operational and asset management strategy—achieving measurable gains throughput, safety and efficiency. Nithurshan holds a PhD in sensor technology for aircraft and is a Chartered Professional Engineer.
Speaker: Dr Kareeb Hasan, Research Engineer
Dr Kareeb Hasan is a research engineer with expertise in sensor systems, data analytics, and infrastructure monitoring. With a PhD in engineering and experience at Monash IRT, his work focuses on applying technology to improve transport safety, system performance, and operational decision-making.
6:05 PM – Presentation 2: ’Quantitative Assessment of Visibility of Locomotives’
Synopsis:
Several control measures based on locomotive-mounted lighting have been suggested to improve the front-end visibility of freight locomotives. Trials have been conducted in Australia for two of these proposed measures. These are flashing beacons on locomotives and the conversion of locomotive headlights from halogen globes to Light-Emitting Diodes. The Monash Institute of Railway Technology (IRT) at Monash University undertook an independent assessment of these trials based on scientific principles. The aim was to develop a methodology to subjectively evaluate the change in conspicuity concerning lighting and luminance scheme modifications on locomotives.

Several trials were conducted in WA and NSW to assess the efficacy of locomotive lighting in enhancing locomotive conspicuity. The visual conspicuity of a freight locomotive depends not only on its brightness or shininess (quantified by its luminance value) but also on the average luminance of the surrounding background and viewing conditions (such as observation distance and angle). The intensity and colour of the light emitted from the locomotive, along with factors like livery, cleanliness, and viewing settings, influence the luminance of the locomotive. Visibility is also affected by natural light conditions, weather, sun position, and ambient settings.
In clear daylight, visibility improvements are highly dependent on a combination of headlight state, viewing circumstances, and sunlight direction. The headlight, especially in high beam during the day, significantly enhances frontal locomotive conspicuity, particularly at greater distances. The visibility benefit diminishes when the locomotive is viewed at an angle. Findings suggest that, under clear daylight or dense vegetation conditions, adding beacon lights and side marker lights provides little to no enhancement in locomotive conspicuity. Conversely, during night-time assessments, notable improvements are observed in overall locomotive conspicuity, especially with side marker lights.
The assessment also revealed a significant difference in luminance contrast levels between daytime and night-time for the same locomotive and lighting fixtures, indicating that locomotives tend to be more visible at night. This may partly explain the substantial difference in recorded level crossing collisions during the day compared to at night.
The presentation will outline the approach and methodology used, along with the trial findings. Some recommendations and ongoing work will also be highlighted.
• Speaker: Dr. Elias Kassa, Team Leader Track Infrastructure, Co-Director Safe Sustainable Accessible Railway (S2ARail) GRIP
Elias Kassa is currently a Principal Track Engineer and Team Leader of Track Infrastructure at the Institute of Railway Technology (IRT) at Monash. He also acts as Co-director for the Safe Sustainable Accessible Railway – Graduate Research Industry Partnership, an industry doctoral program focusing on railway topics. Prior to joining IRT, he worked as a senior researcher and professor at universities in Europe, specialising in a wide range of railway track issues and teaching graduate and postgraduate courses in railway engineering.
With over 23 years of experience in the railway industry, he has developed extensive knowledge in track design, turnouts, wheel-rail interface, and optimisation these systems. He has become a recognised expert in train-track interaction and turnout dynamics. Additionally, he has led various research and consultancy projects related to level crossing safety in both Europe and Australia.
Together with his team at Monash IRT, Elias led the work on train conspicuity trial assessment, contributing to the review of the Train Lighting and Visibility Standard.
6:35 PM – Questions and Answers
6:50 PM – Closing Remarks
• Final comments and appreciation from Professor Ravi Ravitharan

AI in railway safety: enhancing learning from accidents
2025-09-30 12:00 - 13:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Victoria
Overview
Learning from railway accidents is a complex process that involves reviewing extensive documentation, sometimes across multiple languages, while addressing difficult operational issues. For early-career engineers, the challenge is compounded by the need to build foundational knowledge while working through a growing archive of incidents. This webinar, presented by Dr Wei-Ting Hong, Postdoctoral Research Associate at the John Grill Institute for Project Leadership, University of Sydney, will discuss how artificial intelligence can assist in processing accident data, support analysis, and provide insights for decision-making in railway safety. The session will also outline examples of how research approaches are being applied in practice, highlighting both opportunities and challenges in expert–AI collaboration.
Register here
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will:

consider how expert–AI collaboration can contribute to prioritisation, judgement, governance, and transparency in railway safety decision-making
examine AI techniques for processing and analysing large volumes of multilingual accident reports
explore approaches for connecting academic research with industry practice in AI-supported railway operations
gain an understanding of potential applications of AI in supporting safer and more efficient railway systems.

Program
Online:

12:00 pm AEST: Webinar begins, followed by Q&A
13:00 pm AEST: Webinar ends

About the speaker

Wei-Ting Hong
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Project Analytics at John Grill Institute for Project Leadership, the University of Sydney

RTSA QLD annual dinner and trivia extravaganza
2025-08-28 17:30 - 21:30 (Australia/Brisbane) | Cloudland, Rose Room, 641 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, Queensland, 4006, Australia
Overview
Join rail industry personalities for another exciting instalment of the Yearly Meeting Dinner and Trivia Extravaganza. This event is one of the premier occasions on the Queensland Rail Industry’s calendar and provides an excellent opportunity for networking across all sectors and disciplines. Guests will be treated to a keynote speech as part of the night’s proceedings, followed by the fixture that is the Trivia Extravaganza. This event includes a two-course dinner and beverages.
Event Timeline
5.30pm – Registration & Networking
6.30pm – Welcome address
7.00pm – Entree served
7.15pm – Keynote speaker
7.55pm – Awards presentations
8.00pm – Mains served
8.15pm – Trivia
9.00pm – Trivia concludes
9.30pm – Event concludes
Table bookings
For table bookings (up to 8 guests) and supporter packages, please contact eaqevents@engineersaustralia.org.au
Pricing
Member: $110.00
Technical Society Member: $110.00
Student Member: $80.00
Non-Member: $150.00
Guest Member: $110.00
Guest Non Member: $150.00
Keynote Speaker
Paul Hoffman
Acting Deputy Director-General (Rail), Department of Transport and Main Roads

Paul was appointed Acting Deputy Director-General, Rail in March 2025. In this role, he leads a pipeline of strategic initiatives that shape the strategy, development, and delivery of rail infrastructure, signalling, and Rollingstock projects. He is responsible for the commercial management of the Queensland Rail Transport Services Contract and the New Generation Rollingstock Public Private Partnership.

Paul plays a key role in strategic cross-agency initiatives that foster collaboration on shared outcomes. He is the primary source of rail advice to the Director-General for the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, the Minister for Manufacturing, and the Minister for Regional Development.
Paul has had a senior career spanning 40 years, marked by deep technical knowledge in infrastructure asset expansion and advanced project programs across industries such as rail, mining, energy, and major engineering construction. He has led teams and delivered successful outcomes on complex projects from concept design to execution.
His previous roles include senior positions at Aurizon, specifically in Aurizon’s successful freight rail business, and other leadership roles with BHP Metropolitan Coal and the West Pilbara Infrastructure Project. In addition, Paul has held various consulting roles globally and has traveled to over 40 countries, highlighting his global perspective and subject matter expertise.

Presentation on the Light River Rail Bridge Project
2025-08-21 17:30 - 21:30 (Australia/Adelaide) | Bobbi’s Bar and Restaurant, 264 South Road, Hilton, South Australia, 5033, Australia
Overview
The Light River Rail Bridge, located at 54.544km on the Adelaide to Crystal Brook track, is being replaced due to its age and approaching end-of-service life. The bridge, constructed around 1915, is being replaced with a new bridge designed for 300LA loading and a 100-year lifespan, with an appropriate maintenance plan. Construction is underway, with the bridge being trial-fitted before painting.
🌏 Bobbi’s Bar and Restaurant, Hilton Hotel, 264 South Road Hilton SA 5033 6:00-9:00pm ACST
📅 Thursday 21st August 2025
🎫 Register for the event below
💰 This event is free for RTSA and Engineers Australia members, and $30AUD for non-members.
About the speaker

James Farrall
Principal Rail Engineer – Tonkin

James is a Chartered Professional Engineer with experience in the multidisciplinary design management and construction delivery of large transport infrastructure, with a focus on rail (passenger and freight), civil structures, ports and resources. He is highly experienced working in complex brownfield environments and can readily assess interface impacts which may arise during project development to improve delivery.
His primary interest and competency areas are design management and project management, where his technical knowledge, organisational skills and leadership qualities allow him to build strong team relationships and deliver co-ordinated, high quality project outcomes. James employs a pragmatic and practical approach to projects with a keen focus on safety in design, hazard identification, discipline co-ordination and detailing, constructability and maintenance issues, and strives to meet the highest standards of quality and accuracy in engineering deliverables and outputs.

Adam Yates
Project Manager – Bardavcol

Adam has extensive experience in the delivery of complex infrastructure projects across all components of civil construction, particularly bridges and other structures, road, rail and environmental water sectors. With a strong background in both greenfield and brownfield environments, Adam is skilled at managing multidisciplinary teams and navigating project interface challenges to achieve successful delivery outcomes, particularly under tight delivery timeframes.
His core strength lies in project management, where his technical knowledge, practical mindset and leadership capabilities enable him to build effective team relationships and consistently deliver high-quality results. Adam’s ground up experience enables a hands-on approach, ensuring a strong focus on safety, constructability, stakeholder coordination, and overall ensuring delivery of project to a high standard for Bardavcol’s clients. He is committed to achieving engineering excellence through precision, collaboration and attention to detail which shines through in all teams he leads and mentors.

Conference on Railway Excellence (CORE) 2025
2025-08-12 - 2025-08-14 | Victoria
Kia Ora!
We warmly invite you to join us in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland), Aotearoa (New Zealand), for the Conference on Railway Excellence 2025 (CORE 2025), themed Kaitiaki – Guarding the Future, from 12-14 August at the Pullman Hotel, Auckland. CORE is Australasia’s premier railway engineering and technology conference, featuring over 80 peer-reviewed papers and international keynote speakers addressing critical issues in railway policy, operations, and engineering. Expect insightful presentations, dynamic discussions, networking opportunities, technical tours—and, of course, a bit of socialising. CORE 2025 will deliver the high standard of content you’ve come to expect, with a distinct New Zealand touch. Our theme, Kaitiaki, embodies the concept of guardianship over the sky, sea, and land—just as we, as railway professionals, are the guardians of rail’s role in sustainable freight and passenger transport. We’re also introducing a new option for presentations: a pathway for those unable to submit a full paper but still keen to share valuable insights. These extended abstracts, typically 2-4 pages, will be peer-reviewed to maintain the high standard of CORE while offering more flexibility. Auckland, known as the “City of Sails,” is at the heart of New Zealand’s rail investment, including the City Rail Loop, which will be nearing completion during the conference. This project will be a highlight of our technical tours. With convenient flight options from major Australian cities and the added opportunity to explore New Zealand’s natural beauty, CORE 2025 offers a perfect blend of professional development and adventure. For those concerned about overseas travel, keep in mind that the flight time is shorter than an east coast-to-Perth trip, we speak the same language, and we’re still part of the family—well, almost! The RTSA New Zealand Chapter, the CORE 2025 organising committee, and the New Zealand rail industry look forward to welcoming you to Auckland for another exceptional CORE.
John Gardiner Chair, CORE 2025

The future of global rail renewals
2025-08-07 18:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Engineers Australia Sydney Office, Mezzanine Floor, 44 Market Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia
Overview
As global investment in rail infrastructure surges, the industry faces a pivotal moment. Reliable, safe and future-ready rail systems are essential for economic growth and sustainability.
This session will explore how leading organisations are shifting from reactive to proactive renewal strategies, using innovative, performance-driven solutions.
Learn how Unipart Rail and their partners are setting new standards in collaborative delivery, redefining how global rail networks are maintained and modernised.
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will:

explore the shift toward proactive global rail renewal strategies
understand innovations improving rail safety, efficiency and sustainability
gain insight into Unipart Rail’s vision and strategic partnerships
discover collaborative approaches redefining rail industry standards.

Program
In-person:

5.30 pm AEST: Registrations open and networking
6.00 pm AEST: Presentation begins, followed by Q&A
7.00 pm AEST: Presentation ends, further networking
7.30 pm AEST: Event ends

Online:

6.00 pm AEST: Webinar begins, followed by Q&A
7.00 pm AEST: Webinar ends

About the speaker

Wilton Feitosa
Rail Construction, Maintenance and Renewal Business Development Manager,Unipart

Biography

Concept plan for Canberra to Eden railway
2025-07-28 17:30 - 18:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Victoria
Overview
Join us online at 5:30-6:30pm on Monday 28th July for an in-depth presentation on The Plan—an ambitious and innovative rail infrastructure proposal by engineer and economist Edwin Michell. The Plan envisions tilting passenger trains reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h and freight trains up to 115 km/h along an upgraded and extended railway corridor from Canberra to Bombala and down the South Coast Range to the Port of Eden—one of Australia’s finest harbours.
This session will outline the engineering and economic considerations of railing inland produce—75% of which is exported—to the coast. Attendees will learn how Michell tackled the major challenge of designing a viable route down a 750-metre descent using gradients mostly limited to 1 in 70 (with brief sections at 1 in 60), incorporating switchbacks, viaducts, and minimal tunnelling (less than two kilometres total). The project, estimated at a maximum of $3 billion in 2018, was featured in the Engineers Australia magazine Create in October 2020.
The event will also explore the conclusive Economic Evaluation of the Plan conducted by leading transport economist R. J. Nairn and published in 2024, equipping attendees with informed perspectives to contribute meaningfully to public and professional discourse.
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will:

understand the engineering requirements and solutions for transporting inland produce via rail to the Port of Eden
learn how Edwin Michell successfully located and designed a railway route across difficult terrain with minimal environmental and construction impact
gain insight into the economic rationale and evaluation of the project, as assessed by R. J. Nairn
be equipped to engage in informed discussion about the Plan and assess its merits in comparison to alternative viewpoints or proposals.

About the speakers

Richard Hopkins
Rail Plan Coordinator, pro bono, Cooma and Monaro Progress Association

Robert J. Nairn
Independent Transport Economist

City Rail Link delivery using alternative motive power webinar
2025-07-15 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Victoria
Overview

The Railway Technical Society of Australasia – New Zealand Chapter, invite you to join them for a presentation on the delivery of welded rail to from Quay Park (Auckland) into the CRL tunnel at Maungawhau (Mt Eden) using an alternative motive power for the work train.

📅 12 – 1pm NZST Tuesday 15th July🌏 Online via Webinar🎫 Register for the event below

Steve Crump and Greg Hackett will discuss a number of key aspects such as:

The problem: getting rail and unloading into the CRL tunnels
Challenges of the tunnel gradient
Compliance: challenges, testing of new rail equipment
Plant introduction of the Zephirs shunters and wagons
Rail license: stepping into the unknown and how it helped
The result: good, bad and lessons learnt.

About the speakers

Greg Hackett has had a long career with KiwiRail before starting Integrated Safety with Steve. Greg has a depth of experience working in the safety field on many of New Zealand’s large rail projects, including the Kaikoura Earthquake Main North Rail Line rebuild, Wellington Metro Upgrades, Auckland Electrification project, the Auckland DART project and most recently, the Northland Rail Upgrade project as well as Auckland Metro projects. Across these roles his focus has been leading the development of well-documented health and safety management systems and supporting projects with a pragmatic approach to rail safety.
Steve Crump: Steve has extensive knowledge and expertise of rail in New Zealand, gained from experience of working on some of New Zealand’s largest rail projects such as the Kaikoura Earthquake Main North Rail Line rebuild, Wellington Metro Upgrades, iReX, CRL and more recently supporting AT with their Level Crossing Removal projects Steve also started his career managing a protection provider through significant Auckland projects, he then completed a stint at KiwiRail before forming Integrated Safety with Greg. Steve is well-known for his expertise in understanding the complexities of the rail environment, providing guidance on how to navigate rail access, rail safety and finding practical solutions on complex projects.
Both Steve and Greg continue to pave a legacy within the NZ rail industry. Whether it be the development of track safety processes that we now take for granted every day or contractors holding their own rail license, Greg and Steve can be seen as pioneers in this industry

ETCS (European Train Control System) Lessons from Australia and New Zealand
2025-07-01 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Victoria
The RTSA New Zealand Chapter invite you to join this webinar presented by Doc Frank Heibel. Doc Frank will present several lessons gained from his own experience and market observations, providing attendees with a comprehensive perspective of the European Train Control System (ETCS) developments in our region.

⏰ 12 – 1pm NZST📅 Tuesday 1st July🌏 Online via Webinar🎫 Register for the event below

Overview

ETCS is an advanced train control system designed to improve safety, efficiency and capacity on railway network. The first ETCS-related activity in Australia took place almost 20 years ago. Various ETCS projects in Australia and New Zealand since then offer valuable lessons for anyone involved in current or future projects or generally interested in this popular train control technology. This presentation will provide several insights on market observations and will provide attendees with a comprehensive perspective of the ETCS developments in our region.

Doc Frank’ as he is widely known in the rail industry is one of Australia’s most renowned experts on High-Capacity Signalling including CBTC (Communication Based Train Control System) and enhanced varieties of ETCS. Frank worked on the strategies for Digital Signalling in Sydney and Perth, one leading to ETCS and one to CBTC recommendations. Other relevant roles included technical CBTC advisory for Sydney Metro Northwest and specialist peer reviews for the Metro Tunnel Project in Melbourne and Cross River Rail in Brisbane.For the last ten years Frank has been the only person in Australia offering training courses for CBTC, ETCS and High-Capacity Signalling that are famously suitable for rail professionals regardless of their level of signalling knowledge prior to the training. Frank single-handedly organised the first global virtual CBTC conference and hosted one hundred episodes of the popular podcast “Railway Conversations with Doc Frank” which can be found on YouTube, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Innovations in Railway Asset Management Technologies
2025-06-27 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Victoria
The Railway Technical Society of Australia – New Zealand Chapter (RTSA) invite you to join this webinar on Innovations in Railway Asset Management Technologies presented by Prof. Hannes Gräbe.

⏰ 12 – 1pm NZST📅 Friday 27th June🌏 Online via Webinar🎫 Register for the event below

Overview

The future of railway infrastructure depends on how effectively we manage, monitor, and maintain our track assets. This talk explores recent innovations in railway track asset management, underpinned by research and practical application in the South African context. Drawing on key principles of asset-centric management, the presentation demonstrates how integrated technologies are reshaping maintenance strategies across the track lifecycle.Central to this transformation is the concept of the digital railway—leveraging real-time monitoring, intelligent analytics, and smart components to shift from reactive to predictive maintenance. The talk covers innovations such as the Kli-pi smart sensor, smart rail pads, LiDAR-based tunnel moisture mapping, instrumented track vehicles, and fibre-optic sensing for stress monitoring. Emphasis is placed on condition analysis approaches, digital twins, and machine learning techniques for asset performance prediction and deterioration modeling.Through case studies involving field monitoring sites, derailment investigations, and infrastructure testing, the talk illustrates the value of novel methods in improving safety, efficiency, and reliability. The presentation also highlights the importance of skills development, engineering education, and the role of national facilities such as Engineering 4.0 in enabling on-track research, data collection, and qualification programmes. These innovations collectively form the foundation of a smarter, more resilient railway system where data-driven asset management is not a luxury, but a necessity.
Speaker
Prof. Hannes Gräbe heads the Civil Engineering Department at the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology (EBIT). He holds the Chairs in Railway Engineering and Railway Safety, funded by Transnet and the Railway Safety Regulator. His research focuses on innovative track condition monitoring systems and techniques, advanced geotechnical testing of track formation materials, data analytics in railway engineering and the numerical analysis of railway structures. Prof. Gräbe also develops and delivers railway engineering courses and programs tailored to the needs of the South African railway industry.

Canberra Light Rail - Stage 2: Technical update
2025-06-25 17:45 - 19:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Engineers Australia Canberra, 11 National Circuit, Barton, ACT, 2600, Australia
Overview
The NSW/ACT branch of the Rail Technical Society of Australasia is convening an in-person presentation at Engineers Australia’s office in Barton, Canberra to provide a technical update on Stage 2 of the Canberra Light Rail. The scope of the presentation will discuss the asset management strategy of Stage 1, the use of urban design to enhance rail safety for Stage 2A and the process for development of requirements for new system elements of 2B concept design. This in person event is an important opportunity to gain an insight into Canberra’s largest infrastructure project as the construction for Stage 2A is about to commence and discuss rail technical matters with the project’s key technical minds.
Registration link
Learning outcomes

Using asset condition surveys for assurance in a PPP context
How urban design can influence human behaviour to improve safety
How requirements and design solution development develops during early phases

Event program
📅 Wednesday 25 June 2025
🕖 5:45 pm-7:30 pm AEST
📍 Engineers Australia, Level 1/11 National Circuit, Barton, ACT 2600
About the speakers

Rebecca Garrett
Technical Lead, Infrastructure Canberra

Georgina Mahony
Technical Manager, Infrastructure Canberra

Frank liu
Senior Rail Engineer, Transport Canberra & City Services

Bendigo Tramways (BT) Historic Tram Operation and Tram Collection
2025-06-20 10:00 - 14:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | 1 Tramways Avenue, Bendigo Victoria 3550, 1 Tramways Avenue, Bendigo, Victoria, 3550, Australia
Overview
Join the RTSA VIC/TAS Chapter in person for a site tour to the Bendigo Tramways (BT) Historic Tram Operation and Tram Collection. Bendigo Tramways is a living piece of history that has been entwined with the city’s identity since 1890. Home to Australia’s oldest operating tram depot, its iconic fleet of trams exceed 100 years of age.
🌏 Bendigo Tramways (BT) Historic Tram Operation and Tram Collection Address – 1 Tramways Avenue, Bendigo Victoria 3550 10.00am until 2.00pm
📅 Friday 20th June 2025
🎫 Register for the event below
💰 This event is free for RTSA and Engineers Australia members, and $30AUD for non-members.
Lunch will be generously provided by our host
Public Transport Options
For those travelling by train catch the 7.39 am Swan Hill train from Southern Cross which gets into Bendigo at 9.55. Attendees will then need to walk down Mitchell Street from the Station to Pall Mall/Charing Cross Tram stop (refer to map) where we will be collected in a Tram and take you for a ride before arriving at the Tram Depot for some lunch and a Depot Tour. BT will then take the tour back on the Tram to Pall Mall/Charing Cross Tram stop so attendees can walk back to the train station.

Ready for action: Operational readiness across industries
2025-06-19 17:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Engineers Australia Victoria, Level 31, 600 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Level 31, 600 Bourke street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
Overview
Operational readiness is critical for ensuring that systems, teams, and infrastructure are fully prepared before going live, but the approach can vary dramatically across industries. This cross-sector panel brings together experts from transport, energy, cybersecurity, and food/pharma to explore how each industry defines, plans, and delivers readiness. Join us as we examine the unique challenges and standards shaping readiness in each sector, from regulatory compliance in pharma to resilience in cybersecurity.
Our panellists will discuss key components like stakeholder engagement, risk management, training, and commissioning, and how these play out differently depending on the context. We’ll close with a comparative discussion, drawing out best practices, lessons learned, and opportunities to transfer insights across industries.
Whether you’re launching a new transit system, a power grid upgrade, or a secure digital platform, this session will help you think more strategically about what it means to be truly ready.
🌏 Engineers Australia Melbourne Office – Level 31, 600 Bourke Street , Melbourne Victoria, 3000
📅 5.00 pm — 7.00 pm AEST, Thursday 19 June 2025
🎫 Register for the event via Ready for action: Operational readiness across industries | Engineers Australia
💰 Pricing for this event is as follows:

Member: Free
Technical Society Member: $30.00
Student Member: Free
Non-Member: $30.00
Guest Member: Free
Guest Non Member: $30.00

Learning Outcomes
In this event, you will:

understand the core principles of operational readiness and how they are applied across diverse industries such as transport, energy, cybersecurity, and food/pharma,
identify key differences and similarities in readiness approaches, including regulatory requirements, risk mitigation, stakeholder engagement, and commissioning processes,
gain insights into industry-specific challenges and how organizations overcome them to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant go-live transitions,
explore transferable strategies and best practices that can be adapted across sectors to strengthen readiness planning and execution.

Program Outline
In-person:

5.00 pm AEST: Guest arrivals and registrations
5.15 pm AEST: Event begins
5.30 pm AEST: Panel discussion begins
6.15 pm AEST: Networking begins
7.00 pm AEST: Event concludes

About the speakers
Luke Robinson – Executive Director, International System Operator Network/AEMO
Luke Robinson is a chartered electrical engineer and MBA graduate with nearly 20 years’ experience in the energy industry. His experience encompasses transmission planning, power system analysis, system operations, generator connections and commissioning.
Luke joined AEMO in 2017 initially managing connections, and later moved to operations. In his current role as the inaugural Executive Director of the International System Operator Network, Luke facilitates collaboration across ISONs System Operators AEMO, CAISO, EirGrid, ERCOT, Energinet and NESO to support the transition to secure, reliable, resilient power systems with very high levels of variable, inverter-connected renewable generation across transmission and distribution networks.

Shani Davies – Program Manager, Metro Trains Melbourne
With over a decade of experience as a Chartered Electrical Engineer and a MBA , I bring a unique blend of technical depth and strategic insight to operational readiness. I’ve led cross-functional teams through complex project lifecycles—translating engineering and system requirements into practical, executable operational systems. My experience spans front-line delivery and corporate leadership across operations, maintenance, control systems, and systems engineering. This gives me a holistic understanding of what’s required to transition from project to steady-state operations—whether it’s workforce capability, asset readiness, system integration, or risk mitigation. I’ve developed and implemented readiness strategies that align people, processes, and systems, ensuring operational success from day one.

Chathura Abeydeera – Chair, CREST Australasia

Chathura is a trusted cybersecurity advisor with over 20 years of industry experience. With a strong track record of advising boards and executive teams, he brings a unique ability to translate complex technical risks into clear, actionable governance insights. Over the past decade, he has led high-performing cybersecurity teams within two of the Big Four consulting firms in Australia, delivering large-scale cybersecurity assessments, internal audits, and incident response programs for major Australian and global organisations. His expertise spans strategic advisory and hands-on leadership during high-impact cyber events. He is also recognised as a Fellow of the Australian Information Security Association (AISA) and has been awarded the title of Fellow by CREST. He is presently engaged in the pursuit of a doctoral degree in Cybersecurity and Space Intelligence.

Matt Flavel – Chief Scientist, The Product Makers

Dr Matt Flavel is a scientist who is currently leading R&D and product development projects globally across industries such as agriculture, aquaculture, food, beverage, cosmetics, clinical trials and drug development. These projects include technologies with various stages of readiness from initial discovery through to commercially available products.

Perth's new C-Series Rollingstock: the good and the not so good
2025-06-19 17:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Perth) | Engineers Australia Perth, Level 10, Allendale Square 77 St Georges Terrace, Perth, Western Australia, 6000, Australia
Overview

Join the RTSA Western Australia Chapter in-person in Perth for this event. Welcome to the future of rolling stock! Perth commuters have recently been introduced to the next generation of trains that are now operating in service. This technical presentation will outline how these railcars differ from previous fleets, what has worked and what hasn’t been accepted with as much joyous enthusiasm. Join us for an exclusive insight. This presentation is suitable for those involved in the rail industry and other engineers who are curious about the Perth’s new trains.

⏰ 5:00 – 7:00pm AWST📆 Thursday 19th June🌏 In-person at Engineers Australia, Perth🎫 Register for the event below
Program

5.00 PM – registrations open
5.30 PM – presentation
6.15 PM – Q&A
6.30 PM – networking
7.00 PM – event closes

Learning outcomes

Engineering overview of Perth’s new C-series rolling stock
Lessons learnt from a major public infrastructure project
Behind the scenes look and facts

Our Speaker

Rodney Raymond
Delivery Manager Rollingstock, Public Transport Authority

Introduction to European Train Control System L2 rollout on the Queensland Rail Network
2025-06-18 17:00 - 18:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | Engineers Australia Queensland Level 9, 340 Adelaide Street Brisbane , Queensland , 4000, Engineers Australia Queensland Level 9, 340 Adelaide Street, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia
Overview
The European Train Control System (ETCS) is a digital signalling system that relays continuous information between trains and the central Rail Management Centre via a radio system, trackside technology and onboard equipment being delivered by the Sequence Signalling & Systems Alliance. Already operating in cities around the world, the new digital signalling system, ETCS will help increase capacity, efficiency and reliability while ensuring the highest level of safety on our rail network. ETCS L2 is currently being installed on the Shorncliffe line in Brisbane’s North and will support the safe operation of trains in the Cross River Rail tunnels and the area south to Moorooka. It is being progressively rolled out on the Queensland rail network over the next decade. The next phase of this roll out is on the Gold Coast line between Beenleigh and Varsity Lakes. Sequence is an alliance between Hitachi Rail, Queensland Rail and the State of Queensland, working in partnership with the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads. This collaboration unites Queensland Rail’s 150+ years of local experience and operational excellence with Hitachi Rail’s global expertise in rail and digital signalling solutions.
Program timeline
In person
4.30pm – Guest arrival and networking | Catering provided
5.00pm – Presentation commences
6.00pm – Presentation concludes
Online
5.00pm – Presentation commences
6.00pm – Presentation concludes
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will:
Understand how ETCS L2 will be rolled out on the Queensland rail network
Learn about the ETCS L2 and its different systems and sub systems.
Speaker
Anthony MacDonald combines deep expertise in computer software engineering with a ‘real world’ lens and straightforward communications approach that ensures results. His track record of delivering successful projects across the globe is backed by PhD qualifications and university-level research and teaching positions.
Over 20-plus years, Anthony has built a reputation for developing and implementing integrated software systems that change the face of the rail industry and train control operations. In particular, he led a team responsible for the pioneering systems behind the world’s first fully automated, heavy haul rail network, AutoHaul® – as well as rail, signalling and automation innovations everywhere from India and the US to Queensland.

History of the Mile End Stabling yards
2025-06-12 17:30 - 21:30 (Australia/Adelaide) | Bobbi’s Bar and Restaurant, 264 South Road, Hilton, South Australia, 5033, Australia
Overview
Step back in time with Bob Sampson, former South Australian Railways shunter and signalman, as he shares a deeply personal and historically rich look at the Mile End Goods Yard—once one of Adelaide’s busiest and most vital rail hubs.
Having lived, worked, and documented the area extensively since 1969, Bob will present a rare and compelling collection of photographs capturing the daily workings and changes within the yard. A highlight of the event is a 12-minute colour Super 8mm film he produced in 1974/75, showcasing authentic shunting activities from that era. Though the film may carry the charm of its time, it remains a valuable historical record.
Bob will also guide attendees through a detailed PowerPoint presentation that maps out the various parts of the yard and explains their specific functions, offering a comprehensive view of the inner workings of Mile End during its peak.
Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, a historian, or simply curious about local heritage, this is a unique opportunity to experience the story of Mile End through the eyes of someone who helped shape it.
🌏 Bobbi’s Bar and Restaurant, Hilton Hotel, 264 South Road Hilton SA 5033 6:00-9:00pm ACST
📅 Thursday 12th June 2025
🎫 Register for the event below
💰 This event is free for RTSA and Engineers Australia members, and $30AUD for non-members.
About the speaker

Bob Sampson OAM
Bob joined the SA Railways in January 1972 as a Porter and Ticket Collector on the Redhen trains.
He completed his Rules training and transferred to the Mile End Freight Yard in May 1973 as a pilot, assistant shunter and yard porter. Bob also acted as the Signalman at Mile End South and at Keswick signal cabins during this time. He transferred to Adelaide superintendents office in May 1975 as the Relief Clerk in Transportation area, including Movements, Interchange, Livestock and Trucks Offices. He later transferred to Australian National Railways Head Office in 1984 – relieving in Public Relations and working on theAN Newspaper where he was later appointed to ANR Corporate Affairs in 1986, as Suggestion Plan Manager and Heritage Manager with ANR.
He transferred to Track Access in 1995 – and eventually appointed as Property & Asset Manager Aust Rail Track Corp in 1998. Bob was eventually appointed as Corporate Property Manager with ARTC, which included VIC and NSW in 2004.
After 41 years in rail industry Bob accepted redundancy in 2012, and took up the role of Executive Officer at National Railway Museum, the following week.

KiwiRail Hillside Development Webinar
2025-05-30 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Victoria
Overview

The Railway Technical Society of Australasia, invite you to join them for a presentation on the historic redevelopment of the historic KiwiRail Hillside site in Dunedin. The presentation will focus on the state of the site pre-funding, planning, demolition, land remediation, construction of a new mechanical workshop, office and networks workshop, construction of a new rail yard, seismic upgrade of a heritage building and the Wagon Assembly Project.

📅 12 – 1pm NZST Friday 30 May🌏 Online via Webinar🎫 Register for the event below

About the speakers

Nathan Lewis is a Senior Project Manager for TSA Riley. He was previously the Senior Project Manager for KiwiRail over the three and a half year programme of work at Hillside. He has previous worked for an international NGO rebuilding schools after natural disasters in Mexico, Napal, the Philippines and Dominica.
Gesmar (Junior) is a Technical Director, Rail Specialist at Mott MacDonald and an RTSA Committee member. Junior was the Rail Project manager for Hillside responsible for overseeing quality.

STORE 2025 | Online Q&A Forum Friday 23 May
2025-05-23 12:00 - 13:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | online only
Friday 23 May 20252:00pm NZT / 12:00pm AEST / 10:00am AWSTLocation: Microsoft Teams
Join us for a live online Q&A session about the STORE Scandinavia 2025 study tour, hosted by the RTSA and The Incentive Lab team. This is a great opportunity for prospective participants and EOI registrants to gain more insight into the tour itinerary, objectives, and logistics before committing.
What to expect:

A high-level overview of the STORE 2025 tour
Introduction to the project team supporting the trip
A look at the preliminary itinerary, including key destinations and engineering site visits
Live Q&A with Michael Than and the events team

Whether you’ve already submitted an expression of interest or are just curious to learn more, this session will help answer your questions and give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
How to attend:
Teams link is below, make sure you RSVP so we know your coming
We look forward to seeing you there!

Upgrading The Heysen Boulevard Level Crossing At Mount Barker
2025-05-08 18:00 - 21:00 (Australia/Adelaide) | Bobbi’s Bar and Restaurant, 264 South Road, Hilton, South Australia, 5033, Australia
Overview
Join the RTSA SA Chapter in person for an insightful lecture with the on upgrading the Heysen Boulevard level crossing at Mount Barker. Late last year the Heysen Boulevard level crossing on Steamranger’s heritage railway at Mount Barker was renewed and upgraded. The presentation will describe the track and signalling works involved in the project.
🌏 Bobbi’s Bar and Restaurant, Hilton Hotel, 264 South Road Hilton SA 5033 6:00-9:00pm ACST
📅 Thursday 8th May 2025
🎫 Register for the event below
💰 This event is free for RTSA and Engineers Australia members, and $30AUD for non-members.
About the speaker

Tom Hampton
Consultant

Chris Birkby
Senior Project Engineer – Rail Industry Constructions

The Collie Steel Mill
2025-05-05 17:00 - 19:30 (Australia/Perth) | Level 10, Allendale Square 77 St Georges Terrace, Perth Western Australia, 6000, Level 10, Allendale Square 77 St Georges Terrace, Perth, Western Australia, 6000, Australia
This presentation is being delivered by the Sustainable Engineering Society (SENG) in collaboration with the Railway Technical Society of Australasia (RTSA). They will cover the story of the Collie Steel Mill and how it will produce low emissions steel, kickstart steelmaking for Western Australia and help a community transition from fossil fuel industry. It includes an introduction to low emissions steel making through Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) scrap recycling using state of the art technology to bring manufacturing and recycling back to Australia.
🌏 Online and in-person at Allendale Square Level 10, 77 St George’s Terrace, Perth Western Australia, 6000
📅 Monday 5th May 2025 (5:00-7:30pm in-person; 7:30-8:30pm Online)
🎫 Register for the event below (free for RTSA and Engineers Australia members; $30 for non-members)
Learning outcomes

How EAF scrap recycling works in a Danieli MiDa mill
The opportunities that high levels of automation present for onshore recycling and manufacturing
The challenges and opportunities for communities in the race for net zero

Program
In-person (AWST):

5:00 PM – registrations open
5:30 PM – presentation
6:30 PM – networking and refreshments
7:30 PM – event concludes

Online (AEST):

7.30 PM – webinar commences
8.30 PM – webinar ends

Speakers

Azlan Ho
Managing Director, Green Steel of WA

Sarah Stanley
Stakeholder and Communications Lead, Green Steel of WA & Managing Director of Gumfire

Max Gueldenpfennig

Engineering Manager, Green Steel of WA

Homai Station Pedestrian Level Crossing Removal Webinar
2025-04-15 12:00 - 13:00 (Pacific/Auckland) | Victoria
Overview
Join the RTSA New Zealand Chapter online for a webinar on the successful delivery of the Homai Project and the innovative approaches undertaken around the design, planning and construction delivery.
🌏 Online via Webinar
📅 12:00-1:00pm NZST 15th April 2025
🎫 Register for the event below
About the speakers

Kris Gibson is the Delivery Manager-Level Crossings at Auckland Transport. Kris has over 25 years’ experience delivering rail infrastructure programmes in both client and contractor basis in the United Kingdom and New Zealand. Kris joined Auckland Transport in 2022 and has managed the delivery of the level crossing removal business case, the completion of the stage 1 pedestrian crossing removals and now leads the delivery of the next phases of the programme.
Jack Donaghy leads and manages Infrastructure Projects in the road, rail, and land development sectors. He has worked on national rail projects in the United Kingdom and New Zealand such as level crossing removals and safety upgrades as well as telecommunication rollouts. He also leads the Digital and Innovation initiatives for Becas’ New Zealand transport and infrastructure business.
Danny Cox is the current rail director for DNZ, having worked on and successfully delivered recent rail projects such as WMUP6A, W2QP and Homai station. Danny has over 24 years in the rail industry across both the United Kingdom and New Zealand.

RTSA 2025 Undergraduate Challenge - expression of interest
2025-04-15 - 2025-05-29 | Victoria
In 2025, the Challenge will run over three nights in July. As well as networking with your fellow students and engineers working in rail, there will be cash and non-cash prizes. As in 2024, each Team will have 4 students (one as captain) and a graduate engineer. There will be a maximum of seven teams competing in each State.

The University Challenge Expression of Interest (EOI) is now open, and applications close on 29 May 2025 at 5pm.
You can submit your EOI here: University Challenge 2025 EOI
It is planned to hold a virtual national final in September with all State winners and New Zealand.

Women in engineering and technical colleges: connecting for success
2025-04-10 17:30 - 19:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | The Emerald Peacock, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000, Australia
Overview
This event will provide attendees with an informal networking opportunity. It is an avenue to create a community for Women in Engineering and Advocates across EA Technical Colleges, including Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Risk Engineering, Systems Engineering, Water Engineering, Railway Engineering, and Asset Management.
Learning outcomes
In this event, you will be able to:

network in a casual/informal environment,
create a community of Women in Engineering and advocates for Women in Engineering,
provide better industrial insights for early women professionals.

National Event: Learning and development is the mission webinar
2025-03-26 19:00 - 20:00 (Australia/Sydney) | Victoria
Overview
Join the RTSA ACT/NSW Chapter online for an insightful lecture with the UK Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) Rail Division Chair on the critical role of Learning and Development, with a particular focus on empowering young professionals in the Rail industry. This event highlights the importance of nurturing the next generation of engineers, allowing them to shine and contribute their unique perspectives. The session will emphasise the value of Diversity of Thought and how supporting younger members fosters innovation and growth in the industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with key ideas that shape the future of Learning and Development in Rail. 🌏 Online ⏰ 7:00-8:00pm AEDT 📅 Wednesday 26th March 2025 📢 If you are a young professional in rail and want to participate in Iain’s challenge in the lead up to the event – please contact us at: RTSA@engineersaustralia.org.au 🎫 Register for the event on the Engineers Australia website: Learning and development is the mission | Engineers Australia 💰 This event is free for RTSA and Engineers Australia members, and $30AUD for non-members.
Learning outcomes
In this presentation, you will learn:

understand the significance of Learning and Development in fostering professional growth within the Rail industry
explore the value of Diversity of Thought brought by young professionals and how it impacts innovation
learn strategies for encouraging and supporting the development of young members in the engineering community
gain insights into the role of young professionals in driving progress and shaping the future of the Rail industry.

About the speaker

Iain Rae
Strategy & Sustainability Director, Brodie Engineering
