Two finalists have been named in the Industry Workforce Champion Award category of the 2026 Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia National Awards.
This award recognises an individual within an HVIA member organisation who has shown outstanding leadership, initiative and commitment to developing the heavy vehicle workforce.
They may be a trainer, mentor, program leader, workforce development manager or a hands-on champion whose contribution helps others build their skills, confidence and careers.
The award recognises the people whose knowledge, experience and commitment to others strengthen not only their own workplace, but the capability of the heavy vehicle industry.
Geoffrey Franklin: Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs
With more than 45 years of industry experience, Geoffrey Franklin has built a career around technical expertise, quality workmanship and passing that knowledge on to others.
In his leadership role within the Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs panel shop, Geoffrey has helped guide repair quality and workflow while supporting the development of apprentices and tradespeople around him. His practical approach to mentoring draws on decades of experience and a willingness to share the skills and knowledge developed over a lifetime in the industry.
Geoffrey’s contribution demonstrates the important role experienced tradespeople play in building the next generation of heavy vehicle capability – ensuring practical knowledge is shared, standards are maintained and developing workers have experienced people to learn from.
Noel Wakley: Recar / Wales Heavy Vehicle Repairs
Across more than four decades with Recar, Noel Wakley has developed experience spanning estimating, repair, welding, body building and management – knowledge he now brings to supporting and developing others within the business.
During his 42 years with the organisation, Noel has seen significant changes in vehicles, repair methods and workplace practices. Throughout that evolution, he has remained closely involved in the practical development of people, including onboarding new employees and helping apprentices build their skills, confidence and understanding of the trade.
His contribution reflects the value of retaining and transferring industry knowledge across generations. By combining extensive technical experience with day-to-day guidance and mentoring, Noel helps ensure the capability accumulated over a long career continues to benefit the people entering and progressing through the industry.
The winner of the 2026 Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia National Awards will be announced at the HVIA Gala Dinner to be held on Thursday, December 3 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.