Held at the Highlander Bar in Melbourne’s CBD, the young pipeliners had the opportunity to catch up with each other before the more experienced members of the crowd gave their views on where the industry has come from, where it is going and a range of topics in between.
The first pipeliner to speak was long-time industry member Peter Norman, owner and director of recruitment company Peter Norman Personnel, who spoke about his time working on the construction of the Brooklyn to Altona Pipeline in the mid-70s.
Recounting five pipelines of different diameter being laid in the same trench, Mr Norman explained it was a very interesting project to work on, although not without its challenges.
Viewing images of the construction practices and procedures at the time, the young pipeliners had the opportunity to see how much particular aspects of the industry have evolved over the years.
Next to present was CNC Project Management Managing Director and APGA Treasurer Dave Maloney who, rather than focusing on the construction and projects, spoke about the human side of the pipeline industry.
Mr Maloney spoke on the increasing role of women in the industry, the role that young people need to play in shaping the future of their respective industries, and how to make the most of any career choices that may present themselves in the future.
Both presentations were open to discussion from the floor and involved back and forth between the audience and the two experienced heads.
The night proved to be very informative across a wide range of topics, and the conversation lasted long after the presentations had finished – over some cold refreshments of course!
A big thank you goes to CNC Project Management for sponsoring the event.