Peter Rocke was chair of the Road Transport Industry Forum from 1989 to 1991, which was ultimately renamed as the Australian Trucking Association.
“The ATA and the industry are saddened by the loss of Peter Rocke, who was a tireless advocate for the industry,” the Chair of the Australian Trucking Association, Geoff Crouch, said.
“Peter was one of the central drivers for the creation of a national voice for Australia’s trucking industry, which resulted in the creation of the ATA.
“He recognised the need for a united and national voice for the industry to provide a genuine commitment to improving road safety.
“Without the contribution that Peter made the ATA would not be the voice it is today for the safety, professionalism and viability of Australia’s trucking industry.”
Peter Rocke was awarded the National Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Trucking Industry in 1994, and the Don Watson Memorial Award for conspicuous service to the industry in 2008.
In 2011, the ATA released Putting Safety First which tells the story of the creation of the ATA. The book was developed by a history committee led by Peter Rocke.
He was also president of the Australian Road Transport Federation prior to the establishment of the ATA.