The ARA’s General Manager – Freight and Heavy Haul, Georgia Nicholls, and ARA staff had the opportunity last week to meet with members in Western Australia and visit some of the incredible facilities driving innovation in rail manufacturing and technology. The site visits highlighted the impressive capabilities of our West Australian members in advanced manufacturing and the development of world-leading rail solutions.
Mark Green, Managing Director of Speno, hosted ARA staff at their Perth Airport facility, providing insights into their cutting-edge rail maintenance technology and operations. Speno shared their expertise in rail grinding and track maintenance solutions. Speno’s advanced fleet of grinding machines plays a crucial role in maintaining rail networks across Australia, improving track longevity, safety, and performance.
The team also visited Aries Rail, where they saw first-hand Aries Rail expertise in hi-rail vehicle solutions. Aries Rail designs and manufactures a range of innovative hi-rail systems for different vehicle types, ensuring compliance with rail safety standards while enhancing efficiency and reliability for operators. The visit provided a great opportunity to see Aries Rail’s capabilities in action and learn more about their role in supporting rail construction, maintenance, and operations across Australia as well as better understanding their current challenges.
The visit with the Hitachi Rail team, provided valuable insights into the company’s latest projects and technological advancements shaping the future of rail. Hitachi Rail is involved in a range of rail infrastructure and technology solutions, including signalling, automation, and digital systems that support network efficiency and safety. The visit provided an opportunity to learn more about their work in Australia, their approach to delivering rail solutions, and their role in supporting the broader industry.
These member visits underscored the strength of West Australia’s rail supply chain and the commitment of ARA members to delivering innovation and excellence in the industry.