With around-the-clock security guards, on-site structural engineers and enough caterers to feed an army of truck drivers, the National Convention Centre (NCC) pulled out all the stop signs to ensure the 2011 Australian Trucking Convention was an automatic hit.

Bringing together the biggest display of trucks ever to be showcased in Canberra, the four-day convention attracted a truckload of industry delegates and local visitors to the NCC’s exhibition halls. The venue was filled with full-size truck cabs, utes and other large vehicles, displaying the latest in motoring technology for trucking.

 The NCC puts on a ‘trucking good time’

With 36 booths, this year’s convention was the largest in its 20- year history. To create adequate space for the growing exhibition, the NCC needed to open access to both the exhibition hall and the exhibition terrace. Some of the larger vehicles were also displayed outside the venue in a purpose-built marquee.

The large-scale event required an extensive bump-in, with the NCC’s team overseeing the sprawling setup of trucks, moving the large-scale vehicles inside via the venue’s loading dock.

The NCC was required to bring in additional 24-hour security to keep an eye on the trucks and structural engineers to approve vehicle displays ensuring safety was at a maximum throughout the convention.

To cater for convention delegates and participants, the NCC enlisted its culinary team to design and produce a special menu, featuring gourmet curries, steak sandwiches and wedges. The menu was also available to members of the public, who gained entry to the truck exhibition for free.

Held May 25-28, the Australian Trucking Convention included an exhibition of local and international trucking organisations and operators, a series of workshops and speaker sessions, and a program of social activities including a gala dinner.

The convention is held at the NCC every three years and is attended by delegates involved or interested in trucking operations from around the country.