JAMES Whelan, managing director of Whelan Kartaway, has been announced as the recipient of the 2025 WFD Chalmers by the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) and Victorian Waste Management Association.
This award, presented during a ceremony at Melbourne’s Windsor Hotel last week, acknowledges those who have contributed to ensure the values of the VTA and VWMA.
The WFD Chalmers Award is the VTA’s most prestigious honour and was established in memory of Daryl Chalmers, who served on the VTA executive council for more than 40 years.
VTA president Dennis Ryan and VTA chief executive Peter Anderson presented the award alongside Gary Chalmers (Daryl’s son).
“James has been rock-solid in his support and leadership, and I’ve had the pleasure of working with him directly for over 12 years. He is one of the most deserving recipients we’ve ever had,” Peter Anderson said.
James Whelan reflected upon industry changes.
“I was always taught to ask, ‘What can we do to make the industry better for everybody?’ That’s stayed with me throughout my career,” he said.
“When I started in the mid-90s, landfill levies were around $2 a tonne. Today, they’re closer to $170. That’s billions in taxes collected by the state.
“While landfills are often viewed negatively, they’ve provided financial support to the state and helped fund improvements in recycling. It’s an honour to be recognised with this award.”
In his president’s dinner address, Dennis Ryan spoke of a year of achievement for the association.
“Peter Anderson and the VTA secretariat have once again had a busy and productive year advocating for regulation and policy that gives our members the best chance to succeed,” Mr Ryan said.
He said achievements included revocation of Victorian permit costs from January 1, 2026, continued strong engagement with government, delivery of more than 400 job-ready heavy vehicle drivers via its Driver Delivery program—including more than 100 women.
“At the federal level, our work through ARTIO has positioned us at the forefront of industrial relations reform,” Mr Ryan said.
He also emphasised the importance of succession planning and involving younger staff in the work of the association.