An indication of members’ commitment is their contribution to the committees that keep the industry up to date and active. The APIA Board members are also committed and are determined to put the interests of the Association ahead of their personal and business ties. This year we once again have nominations from a number of very capable members who want to be part of the Board. Of course the democratic process means that not all who nominate will attain a Board position and very capable and worthwhile candidates will have to consider nominating again next year.
The industry has faced many changes and the challenges continue. As you know, some years ago the Association was expanded from a contractors’ organisation to include owners and operators. This was a far-sighted move, designed to address the deregulation of the industry as a result of the Hilmer Report’s recommendations on economic reform, particularly the privatisation of government-owned gas pipelines. As the ramifications of these changes continue, APIA must ensure that our membership structure can adjust to new circumstances as they arise.
We have already adjusted “˜Corporate’ membership. To make the fee structure fairer and more representative three categories were introduced: Gold covers companies with more than 25 staff, Blue covers companies with 6 to 25 staff and Bronze covers those companies with 5 or fewer staff. The APIA Secretariat has personally contacted every member who disagreed with their category and, where possible, the appropriate adjustments have been made.
We are also developing a new fee structure for the “˜Sponsoring’ and “˜Lead’ membership categories. I will keep all members informed and seek support for the changes we make as we adapt to the changing pipeline world.
These are serious issues to consider as members do their networking at the Convention and other functions. I am always happy to hear your ideas and concerns, so feel free to approach me at a function or call me at the Secretariat.
In April next year, in a demonstration of APIA’s Research and Standards Committee’s (RSC) international influence, the Joint Technical Meeting will be held in Australia for the first time. This is an international research seminar involving the RSC, the International Pipeline Research Council (PRCI) and the European Pipeline Research Group (EPRG). Researchers from Europe and North America will present high-level technical papers.
I must also comment on the outcomes of the Young People’s Forum. Our younger pipeliners have started their own brand of networking, and are also helping with ideas and programs that will bring new people into the industry. There will be an information exchange system and also mentoring within APIA’s membership. We now have a national YPF (now the Young Pipeliners’ Forum) committee as well as State-based committees of YPFers (see article on page 38).
On other issues, APIA participated in environmental debates, raising awareness of the environmental benefits of natural gas and, as mentioned in the President’s message, actively working with Government on its changes to economic regulation.
As you can see, there is plenty happening in the industry. So, as members prepare to relax and enjoy the lighter side of the transmission pipeline industry, they should also consider the real challenges we face.
Enjoy the Convention, the exhibitions, the presentations, the debate and discussion, and welcome newcomers – and, of course, show off as Mad Max or Priscilla… or both… mmmm now THAT boggles the mind….
Cheryl Cartwright
Chief Executive