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Posted by Caroline Tung
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18 May, 2026
NEXT generation leaders in freight forwarding and customs broking held centre stage at the IFCBAA 2026 National Conference in Hobart.
Adam Kowalski from Victorian customs brokerage firm, Freight On Board International Services, was joined by Gavos Freight Solutions' Nicholas Gavos and Cable International's Ozlem Baser in a panel discussion called Perspectives from our Young Industry Professionals, facilitated by ICBAA WA state director Nicole Couper.
Key insights from the panel discussion included a call for "better support systems" when it came to customs broker and freight forwarder education, and how innovation and technology "can go with and against you".
"I am an advocate for promoting the old school method of learning, and having that master and apprentice mentorship," Mr Gavos said.
Mr Kowalski and his good friend Christian Cunsolo, from the same firm, said they were "humbled" to be acknowledged at the closing night awards.
"Personally, I think the greatest achievement of that young fella Christian is his commitment to the industry," Mr Kowalski said. "That gives us more joy than individual accolades."
This year's event, centred on the theme of disruption, was attended by more than 300 delegates from around Australia, joined by businesses and association counterparts from the CBAFF in New Zealand and CCBA in China.
Speakers and trade exhibitors ranged from senior executives at shipping multinationals, to consultants, and importantly, Australian customs brokers and freight forwarders represented by the association.
Outgoing chief executive Scott Carson and organiser Jodie Murray thanked their association partners, exhibitors, speakers, sponsors and delegates for their support and contribution in making the event such a success.
"Over the past few days, we have welcomed delegates, partners, exhibitors, speakers and industry colleagues from across Australia and overseas for what has been another outstanding conference," Mr Carson said.
"From informative sessions and industry discussions to networking events, golf, Incat tour, LinerGame, gala dinner and awards evening and the bustling trade exhibition, the conference once again highlighted the strength, professionalism and connection within our industry."
View images from the event.
