The Fleet News Group Awards judging panel has been announced, with experienced fleet leaders set to play a key role in identifying the people, organisations and vehicles delivering practical improvements across the fleet industry.
For the Fleet HV News audience, the awards program is an opportunity to recognise the work being done by fleet operators to improve safety, productivity, compliance, sustainability and whole-of-life performance in demanding operating environments.
The first stage of judging will take place in July, when the panel reviews nominations across each award category and conducts online interviews with nominees. These interviews will help the judges understand the operational challenge, the solution implemented, the results achieved and the lessons that can be shared with the wider fleet and transport industry.
The judges will then select three finalists in each category. Once the finalists are announced, the industry will be invited to vote and help determine the winner in each category. This gives fleet managers, suppliers, operators and industry peers the opportunity to recognise the organisations and projects they believe are setting a strong benchmark for fleet management.
In August, the judges will also take part in the vehicle awards program to determine the Fleet Car of the Year and Fleet Truck of the Year category winners. The truck awards will include a hands-on evaluation and assessment process using Best Value Analysis, reflecting how fleet buyers compare vehicles for real-world applications.
For heavy vehicle operators, best value is about more than the purchase price. Fleet buyers need to consider safety, payload, productivity, driver comfort, fuel and energy efficiency, body and equipment suitability, servicing support, compliance requirements, whole-of-life costs and the ability of the vehicle to perform reliably in its intended role.
The judging process will focus on practical outcomes and fit-for-purpose performance, ensuring the awards recognise vehicles and fleet initiatives that deliver value in everyday operations.
The Fleet News Group Awards judging panel includes:
Christine Walley – Fleet Strategy Specialist, Thiess
Peter Armour – Manager, Fleet Services, Benevolent Society
Shannyn Garrett – Procurement Manager – Corporate Services, Serco Asia Pacific
Josh Hedley – Group General Manager – Fleet (Australia/New Zealand), Downer
Chris Fogarty – Retired Fleet Manager
Sarah Johnson – Head Consultant, WLC Fleet Consulting
Mike Costello – Corporate Affairs Manager & Analyst, Cox Automotive Australia & New Zealand
The Fleet News Group Awards will combine independent judging with industry voting to recognise practical achievement, strong leadership and vehicles that help fleet operators improve safety, efficiency, sustainability and operational performance.
