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In less than two weeks the Light Rail industry will meet on the Gold Coast for two days of discussion on planning, development and delivery of Light Rail in Australia. Australian projects are utilizing cutting edge technology and control systems as well as showcasing innovative light rail vehicles and platform solutions. As we approach the upcoming 4th annual Light Rail Conference and Exhibition we asked some of our industry sponsors and exhibitors to give us their thoughts on innovation in the industry and what they are most looking forward to at the event.
We were interested to find out what recent development or innovations in LRT our industry supporters were most interested in….
Bombardier: “As the Gold Coast Rapid Transit System continues into its third year of service and will reach over three million travel kilometers in 2017, we couldn’t be prouder to see Bombardier FLEXITY 2 trams moving passengers swiftly across the city. The train platform solution, imbedded into both the Australian and global rail ecosystem, addresses today’s mobility need and is tailored specifically with the Gold Coast aesthetic in mind, being the only trams in the world with custom designed surfboard racks. Using the latest in asset management technologies, the Gold Coast Light Rail Systems is achieving unpresented reliability, dubbing it the preferred method of transport for passengers around the city.”
THALES: “New Technology
solutions which enhance the customer experience, operational efficiency and security. Low floor vehicles, anti-vibration and sound absorbing interiors, enhanced operational command and control technology all contribute. Thales is pleased to be a leading innovator in a number of these areas.”
Thermo King are excited about “Government investment into Light Rail” and “The new trams arriving this year from Sydney” while
Alstom are proudest of their own “latest evolution in light rail vehicles – the Citadis X05”.
Datwyler “continues to undertake
product research and development to find new and innovative ways to improve stray current protection, noise and vibration attenuation and construction efficiency for light rail track products.”
Bombardier, THALES and Alstom all have speakers giving key presentations throughout the conference program. We were interested in finding out more about what will be examined during these sessions and also what we can expect to hear from them in general as they highlight their products and services at the event. Anthony Lusty, Project Delivery Manager Gold Coast, Bombardier Transport, will be delivering a presentation on the Gold Coast Light Rail’s signaling, communications, control system and integration. THALES will look at how they are “delivering and operating a world class light rail transport system goes beyond simply procuring tracks and vehicles. To get the most out of investments in LRT, Operators need a solution which optimizes daily operations maintenance activates and ensures quality and reliability of service by most effectively managing the complexities of traffic light priorities.” Alstom will outline their “sustainable light rail systems including associated catenary free solutions.
You will find Thermo King, Tehnika and Datwyler in prime positions at the Light Rail 2017 Exhibition and both companies are excited to show the industry what they have been working on and the systems they have on offer. Visit Thermo King for an insight into their “HVAC Systems for Light Rail”.
If you are interested in 
discussing control systems make sure to visit Tehnika who are excited “that attendees of the site tour of the Light Rail Depot Facility in Southport will see at first hand the control systems developed by Tehnika. Tehnika have proudly supported Bombardier Transportation and Keolis Downer on the G:Link by developing and implementing monitoring and control systems for vehicle tracking, station infrastructure (platform displays, CCTVs and PA Systems etc.) and power monitoring. To learn more about Tehnika, visit Exhibitor Stand 5 at any time throughout the conference or www.tehnika.com.au.
Datwyler ‘will have on display new products, as well as the opportunity to discuss our new product developments or speak with us about specific issues to see if we can find a solution” to suit any industry requirements.
We were also keen to find out why each is excited to be involved in this industry leading event and what they are looking forward to most over the two days. Bombardier are “looking forward to hearing from our industry partners about the latest trends and technology development in light rail before hosting the site tour of the Keolis Downer/ Bombardier light rail deport in Southport.”
THALES also confirmed that “Light Rail 2017 provides outstanding opportunities to interact with customers, builders, operators and other technology suppliers. Having all of the industry stakeholders in the one place at one time is rare and we very much look forward to meeting with and gaining a better understanding of their needs and aspirations for the Systems and local customers.”
Alstom echoed the sentiment confirming that “it is very exciting that the conference will draw genuine attendees from all States in Australia (and NZ), reflecting the sheer breadth of light rail projects in delivery or planning. Quite different to say 3 years ago.”
Industry insights, knowledge sharing and networking are key focuses of the event and Thermo King are excited about “Who is attending” and to hear “any new news.” Tehnika are excited about “Conference delegates gaining insights and key learnings from Australia’s newest light rail project – G:Link, and the transformative effect it has had on the city in terms of its transportation. In particular, Tehnika is really looking forward to presentations from Anthony Lusty, Projects Manager Gold Coast, Bombardier Transportation and Loretta Lynch and Jason Ward from Keolis Downer.”
Datwyler want to highlight ‘their project experiences to the conference attendees” as their encapsulation products have been used in over 15 countries around the world.
A special thanks to Bombardier, Thales, Alstom, Thermo King, Tehnika and Datwyler for their support and input into this article.
If you are interested in learning more about sponsorship and exhibition opportunities contact Samantha Lister Samantha.lister@staging.informa.com.au, 02 9080 4432.
Registration information and full agenda can be viewed here.
We look forward to seeing you on the Gold Coast!