As Convenor of the ANCOLD 2024 Conference, I’m proud to share the highlights of what has been an exceptional gathering of the dams industry in Adelaide this year. With 624 delegates, we came together to exchange knowledge, network, and celebrate the advancements and challenges shaping our industry.
The technical program featured two concurrent streams and an impressive array of presentations across themes like hydrology, tailings dams, dam safety, climate change, and governance.
Highlights included:
- Keynote Presentations: Quentin Shaw’s inspiring talk on the Yusufeli Dam mega-project and Kara Price’s insights on financing renewable energy in Australia.
- Emerging Professionals Update: The rebrand of ANCOLD’s Young Professionals to Emerging Professionals, marking a new chapter for the group’s important work.
- Technical Sessions: Cutting-edge research and practical insights into topics like extreme weather impacts, innovative design approaches, underwater construction and risk-informed decision-making.
- Women in Large Dams (WILD) Inaugural Breakfast: An historic and empowering event fostering connections and highlighting the contributions of women in the dams industry.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Panel Session: A thought-provoking discussion on immigration challenges, hosted by Jodie Kilpatrick, with valuable insights from Yuqi Tan, Aida Gibbons and Julian Rojas Martinez.
- YP Networking Opportunities: The YP Mentoring Lunch and the fun-filled Young Professional Networking Night at Archie Brothers Rundle Place were standout moments.
The conference was not just about technical excellence but also about strengthening relationships within our community. The Welcome Reception at Adelaide Oval set the tone, and the vibrant exhibition area created the perfect space for collaboration and conversation. The Conference Dinner with Katrina Webb’s inspiring address was another highlight, providing a relaxed setting for attendees to connect and enjoy the camaraderie of the dams community.
Pulling together an event of this scale takes the collective effort of many. I would like to sincerely thank:
- The Local Organising Committee: Your dedication and hard work have been exceptional.
- Our Sponsors and Exhibitors: Your support is vital in making this event possible.
- Delegates and Presenters: Thank you for sharing your expertise and enthusiasm, which made this conference a success.
- The Professional Conference Organisers: Helene, Michelle, Kim, Lucy, Kan and Daniella from Leishman Associates.
As we close the chapter on ANCOLD 2024, we look forward to the next opportunity to come together at the joint NZSOLD/ANCOLD conference in Christchurch in 2025.
Thank you again for being part of this incredible journey. Let’s keep advancing the dams industry together.
Angus Paton
ANCOLD 2024 Convenor