Andy has been involved in the pipeline industry for many years and his company, AJ Lucas Group Ltd, is well known and respected both in and beyond the Australian landscape. Andy has been a very active member of APIA for many years. He was President in the late 90s and has been on the Board of APIA since 1995, a clear demonstration of his commitment to the industry. Of course it is only fitting that during his presidency the international pipeline world has chosen to head downunder to Australia for IPLOCA’s Annual Convention.
There is much activity in the Australian pipeline industry at the moment. There are several gas transmission projects either underway or being considered and the members have been very involved in water transmission projects. The industry is booming with levels of spending in infrastructure which have not been seen in this country for many years. In addition, to this there is a great deal of corporate activity as the whole infrastructure space is restructured to better meet the challenges of the future. As well as the project and corporate activity, this year has seen a very significant technical event. Australia has been host to a major international pipeline research conference. The Pipeline Research Council International (PRCI), which is based in North America, and the European Pipeline Research Group (EPRG) have for many years led the world in innovation and targeted research into high-pressure, long-distance pipelines for oil and gas. As part of a memorandum of understanding with these two groups and APIA’s Research and Standards Committee, Australia has been able to participate in the biennial conferences (the Joint Technical Meetings, or JTMs), usually held in North America or in Europe. However, in April this year – fast becoming the “˜year of international events’ – the JTM was held in the Southern Hemisphere for the first time. This JTM was one of the most successful held to date, with record attendance and was highly regarded by all who attended.
It is therefore an even better outcome to see the world-renown IPLOCA convention also make the journey to the Southern Hemisphere, further cementing Australia’s place in the international pipeline industry.
The Australian industry can learn much from our international colleagues and we look forward to enjoying the opportunity to share information and experiences during the IPLOCA convention. I am sure that the IPLOCA members will enjoy their time in Australia.
I would also like to remind our international visitors that the Gold Coast – venue of the APIA Annual Convention – is only a little more than a one-hour flight from Sydney. What a tremendous opportunity to extend your downunder experience, either via a quick flight, or perhaps an interesting coastal or inland drive.
I hope the visitors to Australia enjoy this special edition of The Australian Pipeliner, APIA’s official magazine.
Mark Harper
APIA President