FTA & CTAA HOST INDUSTRY SEMINAR ON FREMANTLE TRAFFIC BRIDGE CLOSURE

Preparing Fremantle's Supply Chain

for Possible Disruption

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and Container Transport Alliance Australia (CTAA) welcomed a strong turnout of just under 100 members, industry representatives, and government stakeholders at an informative seminar held yesterday afternoon in Fremantle.

The session focused on one of Fremantle's most significant future challenges – the 12-month closure of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge, scheduled to commence in early 2026.

The seminar featured presentations and key discussions on:

• Rail solutions and the role of inland terminals – presented by Adam Lebihan, Intermodal Group
• Through Bills of Lading and rail advantages – shared by Kim De Coning, OOCL
• Traffic impacts and mitigation strategies – outlined by Paul Stuchbury, Main Roads Western Australia
• Dynamic Q&A panel discussion – featuring all speakers, with insights from Jamie Allardice (Fremantle Ports) and Sue Hellyer (Department of Transport) on supply chain planning and congestion management.

The audience included representatives from Fremantle Ports, DP World, Patrick Terminals, transport operators, freight forwarders, customs brokers, exporters, and key government agencies such as the Department of Transport and Westport.

A key message from the seminar was clear:

"Major congestion is likely coming to Fremantle – is your supply chain ready?"

We extend our thanks to event sponsors – Intermodal Group, Sandfield NZ, Mobicon Systems, and Fremantle Ports, and to all participants for contributing to a productive and engaging discussion.

With significant disruptions anticipated, planning ahead will be critical to keeping supply chains moving and maintaining operational efficiency. Yesterday's seminar marked an important step in preparing the industry for the challenges ahead.