On behalf of FICA , we want to acknowledge and thank Warwick for his exemplary leadership and enduring contribution to the Log Transport Safety Council (LTSC) over the past 25 years.
Warwick played a pivotal role in uniting the log transport industry and establishing LTSC as the trusted forum where government, operators, and forest owners could work together to tackle critical safety challenges—most notably the truck rollover crisis.
His leadership ushered in three defining shifts: a more professional industry culture, widespread driver education, and the introduction of longer, lower load configurations that reshaped the national fleet.
Warwick’s collaborative style—marked by calm diplomacy and a clear call to “leave your guns at the door”—created space for practical solutions and consensus. He led with integrity and courtesy, fostering an environment where what was best for the industry could prevail.
Under his stewardship, LTSC delivered a legacy of enduring improvements: the development of low and long truck configurations, the bolster attachment code, the LTSC operator certification programme (endorsed by forest owners and NZTA), and the establishment of a driver feedback system.
These initiatives have lifted performance, professionalism, and safety across the sector.
Warwick’s induction into the New Zealand Transport Industry Hall of Fame in 2020 was a fitting recognition of his tireless advocacy for log transport. More than that, he built LTSC into a well-organised, highly respected industry body with strong working relationships across the supply chain and with regulators.
As Warwick reflects:
LTSC has been a great journey, a model of industry collaboration, and something to be very proud of.
I think back to the early days, the time we put in and the rewards that came as a result. Quite inspiring to see owners and drivers all embrace the opportunity to lift our game, be professional, and be recognized for it.
I really enjoy the energy of our younger operators that have taken the lead in Contractor Certification and other initiatives, it’s something to be proud of.
Mark (Mc Carthy), Mike (Spiers) and I all come from the same era, we’ve still got plenty to contribute but must ensure our succession plan works.
Warwick, thank you for your outstanding leadership and long-standing commitment to improving the performance and professionalism of log transport. You’ve helped change the culture of our industry and made real strides in how we look after our people. Your legacy is one we’re proud to build on.
