On September 12, 2016, the Australian and New Zealand rail industry was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Australasian Railway Association chief executive officer, Bryan Nye OAM.
Nye worked tirelessly towards improving the rail industry, and its contribution in both Australia and New Zealand, throughout his time at the ARA, from 2003 until his retirement in April 2015.
Upon his retirement, Nye recalled how he and his staff had built what is now the industry’s peak body from the ground up.
“We had to build a credibility within the industry,” he told Rail Express in 2015.
“First, to establish that we were an actual industry, by getting people to work together. Getting them to work with each other, and to build up that relationship, in a way, was the first challenge.
“Once we got them to work together, we were able to start doing other things.
“When the industry can do things together – AusRAIL, courses, all these things – the outcome is great.”
Driven by a passion for national prosperity, Nye bound together the RTSA, the RTAA and the IRSE to form the industry collaboration which is still evident in AusRAIL. Nye and Rail Express publisher, Informa Australia, worked together from 2003 in growing AusRAIL, and other ARA events.
“Through these events he increased the ARA’s credibility within the industry and government and established the ARA as a powerful peak body,” Informa Australia managing director Spiro Anemogiannis said on Monday.
“Bryan was a powerful ally to the rail industry, and his passion for a better Australia and New Zealand was evident through his work.”
“Bryan’s passion and advocacy was inspiring,” AusRAIL conference manager Tina Karas added.
“Throughout our partnership, his industry leadership was reflected in the diversified focus of new and evolving events that highlighted the importance of rail’s role in the national agenda. He championed the sustainability, efficiency and safety of rail at every opportunity.
“On a personal note, all who worked with him will be grateful for his encouragement in championing the team’s individual talents.”
Bryan will be greatly missed by the Informa Australia staff. Our thoughts are with his wife Claudia, his two children, and his seven grandchildren.