All indicators for this event were fantastic and it proved to be another successful event for the ASTT and all trenchless stakeholders. With over 1,000 participants — comprised of 67 exhibiting companies, 225 registered delegates and over 500 trade-pass attendees — the event was one of the largest trenchless exhibitions ever hosted in the Southern Hemisphere. It was pleasing that over 400 participants were first timers to the event. Over the course of four days, delegates attended training sessions led by world-class trenchless experts, including ISTT Chairman Dr Samuel Ariaratnam, and Dr Tom Iseley, Professor at the IUPUI-Purdue School of Engineering & Technology. The conference program consisted of presentations from international and local speakers, with featured sessions including relining, HDD, condition assessment, tunnelling, rehabilitation, new technologies and standards, underground solutions as well as two super panels on rehabilitation and installation. Throughout the event, delegates had the opportunity to view an impressive array of the latest technology in the exhibition hall.
I would like to take this opportunity to also thank the event sponsors. The Platinum sponsor of the event was Interflow, Gold sponsor was Vermeer, Silver sponsors were Kembla Watertech, Insituform Pacific and Zueblin, Bronze sponsors were Bothar Boring and HOBAS, and sponsors were Murphy Pipe and Civil and Bettergrow. Your support to the industry is greatly appreciated.
Other significant events that occurred in Brisbane during the conference were:
- We celebrated the 20th anniversary of the ASTT, providing a great opportunity for the trenchless industry to reflect upon its achievements over that time.
- A fantastic book on the history of the Society was announced at the Gala Dinner, and I urge all trenchless stakeholders to ensure they obtain one. It can be purchased online at www.trenchlessaustralasia.com/astt_20th_anniversary_book/
- The Society’s Councillors met and had the opportunity to discuss several matters pertaining to the Society’s Business Plan. Members can expect further emphasis in the next year in the areas of training and certification, advocacy with government and the continued promotion of Trenchless Technology as the better way.
- The winners of the ASTT Awards at the Gala Dinner were announced. Details of the winners are in this edition. I congratulate all of them.
I take this opportunity to thank our event partners Great Southern Press for the excellent job they did in organising the conference and exhibition on behalf of the ASTT. Chris Bland and his dedicated team did a fantastic job once again. I would also like to thank Kate Pemberton for her efforts, in particular in the completion of the ASTT 20th anniversary book.
As we head towards the end of this year, I wish all members and industry stakeholders the best for the upcoming holiday season.
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