The APIA Annual Convention is a very successful event by any standard. Our 2004 Exhibition is over-subscribed, we have an excellent technical program, and a range of social events for delegates, partners and in many cases, families. I trust that you take time out to reflect on this industry, the people who work in it, and the contribution they all make to the success of our association.
Let me encourage you to be an active participant at the 2004 Convention and Exhibition. Involvement in APIA’s activities, including our Convention, is an important way of keeping in touch with fellow professionals as well as gaining new insights into the issues facing our industry. Our diverse membership base is one of our greatest assets and I look forward to meeting you personally during your stay at Royal Pines.
Since we were last here at Royal Pines in 2001, the industry has continued to grow very strongly, including completion of the SEA Gas Pipeline, Tasmanian Gas Pipeline and the Esperance Pipeline. With the Telfer Pipeline and North Queensland Gas Pipeline all but complete attention is now turning to other major development activities including the Trans-Territory Pipeline. It’s going to remain a busy time.
Our pipeline Standard – AS2885 – continues to play a vital role in providing a nationally consistent technical basis for our industry. Despite the many changes to our industry, and the challenges imposed by the rapidly changing reform agenda, many individuals and companies have continued to contribute to the maintenance and development of this standard. APIA is very grateful for the work done by all the committees involved in this work. Phil Venton continues to play a leadership role in the current revision of
Part 1 of the Standard covering design and construction. Phil has led a team which has sought to answer critical questions which will ensure engineering excellence in the years ahead. He has played a very proactive role which has sought to engage all of our technical regulators and to inform the community on the importance of our standards and the need to ensure continuous improvement and cost reductions without compromising public safety. Towards the end of this year APIA intends to hold an international seminar to discuss and evaluate proposed changes to the Standard. This initiative will be important to existing and new industry participants alike.
Royal Pines is a very popular venue with our members and an ideal location for this year’s Convention. I trust that you will find APIA’s 2004 Convention and Exhibition stimulating and informative, that you make new friends and that all delegates and partners enjoy the many social events we have organised.