The Voice of Regional Transport: Why SIRTA Was Built

Introduction

Hello everyone, Chris Webby, the Chairman of SIRTA, here. I recently had the chance to join Dave McCoid, Murray Lindsay, and the team on the Keep On Moving UDC Business of Trucking podcast. We had a great chat about the journey and the big vision behind the South Island Regional Transport Association – or SIRTA, as you know us now.

Many in our industry often ask if we truly need another representative body. My honest answer is, while perhaps not in sheer numbers, we absolutely do for what we stand for. While national representation is vital, we've identified a real, unmet need right here at the grassroots, regional level. That's precisely where SIRTA's story begins, picking up the mantle from the former NZRTA Region 4 Incorporated Society.

SIRTA officially took its first steps, establishing our name, in February this year, though our constitution is rooted in a legacy stretching back to 1994. As Chairman, I've seen firsthand the frustrations faced by our local operators. We're here to tackle those specific regional challenges, the local roading issues, the council permit struggles, those everyday hurdles that can feel like the biggest problem for a smaller transport business.

What SIRTA Is All About

Our focus is entirely on you, our members. When asked "What's in it for me?", my reply is simple: "What do you need?" We're not just about membership fees; we're about being a proactive partner. Whether it's a hand with a permit, making a crucial connection, or offering guidance on a health and safety issue, we're dedicated to helping you. We'll even come visit, have a yarn over a cup of coffee, and most importantly, we'll strive to get results for you. Not every battle is won, but we are committed to helping get things across the line.

We truly believe in strengthening the camaraderie within our industry. Looking ahead, we're building our membership and exploring opportunities to foster education locally. Our goal is to make getting into this fantastic industry more accessible and ensure that everyone has a trusted voice to call or email for honest advice and support.

I truly believe in giving back to this industry that I've been passionate about my entire life. We're not here to boost bank accounts, but to make the transport industry a better place for the future of the South Island.

A Special Thanks

My sincere thanks to Dave McCoid, Murray Lindsay, and the entire team at Keep On Moving and UDC Business of Trucking for inviting me onto the show. It was a valuable opportunity to connect with the wider industry and share SIRTA's story and mission.

Listen to the Full Conversation

You can hear the full discussion, including more insights into SIRTA's formation and our vision for regional advocacy, on the Keep On Moving UDC Business of Trucking podcast.