This quote from Margaret Heffernan, a well-known and respected entrepreneur and author, sums up the last quarter nicely.
I have just returned from the Ozwater’15 conference in Adelaide. It was refreshing to speak with so many people who are passionate about the water industry and are happy to collaborate with their colleagues across the whole spectrum of disciplines, to ensure a sustainable water industry remains an integral part of our everyday lives.
Similarly, after many hours of brainstorming, discussion, debate and deliberation, a number of exciting initiatives by the ASTT have emerged. The by-laws and rules subcommittee has reviewed the ASTT constitution and suggested potential improvements that will benefit all members and position the ASTT for the future.
The introduction of Special Interest Groups (SIGs) will further engage the membership and facilitate the identification of future initiatives for implementation by the ASTT.
The office bearers of the ASTT for 2015-2016 have been announced. I would like to welcome the incoming President, Steven Apeldoorn. I look forward to working closely with Steven over the coming years.
The outgoing President, Trevor Gosatti has served the ASTT tirelessly over his tenure and has overseen the significant growth of the society whilst maintaining stability and strong foundations for future growth. Thank you Trevor.
Trenchless Technology in Victoria continued to grow steadily despite some setbacks during 2014-2015.
Infrastructure projects of all sizes have continued to support Trenchless Technologies across all sectors.
Due to a change of State Government in 2014, infrastructure delivery has slowed considerably with only $A1.3 billion having been invested directly by the Government in the six months to December 2014. The new Government cancelled contracts for the controversial East West Link (although the breaking news is that East-West may not be dead and buried just yet) and is developing its infrastructure investment plans. Projects include rail crossing works and the newly announced Melbourne Metro Rail Tunnel.
It is expected that growth in trenchless solutions will continue as a necessary part of all capital works programs, to ensure sustainable solutions to ageing infrastructure continue to also provide value to Victorians.
Meanwhile, significant work has been undertaken by Great Southern Press and the ASTT to ensure the 2015 No-Dig Down Under will be bigger and better than previous events. The Gold Coast program is shaping up to be a compelling draw card for trenchless practitioners and new entrants alike. Combined with the launch of the ASTT’s training courses, I’m confident that this event will be a forum for good ideas and innovation.