ASN Events' seamless management of a large delegation helped to showcase Tasmania as a premier destination for major science and knowledge-sharing conferences
Event brief
Hobart, Tasmania, hosted the 58th Australian Marine Sciences Association (AMSA) Conference in collaboration with the New Zealand Marine Sciences Society (NZMSS) in September 2024.
The two groups combined for the sixth time with the goal of advancing our understanding of the marine environment during a period of increasing uncertainty.
With the expertise of event organisers ASN Events – a Melbourne-based event management company – the cohort aided managers, policymakers, and politicians by providing them with high-quality science and advice during this crucial period.
Delegates came together from across Australia, New Zealand, and the Indo-Pacific in what culminated in the largest dedicated marine science conference ever hosted in Australia – highlighting Tasmania’s capabilities as a prime business event destination.
Event highlights
The conference achieved an unprecedented turnout, with 289 delegates from Tasmania, 496 from across the country, and 121 from eight international locations including New Zealand.
Notably, local Tasmanian attendance soared compared to previous AMSA conferences, showcasing the state’s role as Australia’s marine science capital.
AMSA’s diverse theme prioritised the inclusivity of a range of experts, and in response, received over 850 abstracts to be presented. The organisers incorporated quiet spaces, such as a poster breakfast scheduled earlier in the day instead of a traditional exhibition, to provide a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.
Delegates enjoyed unique and informative pre- and post-conference tours, including a diving expedition to the Tasman Peninsula’s kelp forests and a Behind the Marine Science tour of Hobart’s leading research facilities, such as the CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation), IMAS (Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies), and the AAD (Australian Antarctic Division).
These activities enhanced the scientific and cultural exchange through Tasmania’s unique marine environment. The ‘Night Market’ was another fantastic networking initiative that embraced the innate creativity of the cohort as they sold their very own marine-themed arts and crafts to one another much like Hobart’s renowned Salamanca Market.
The conference also featured strong Indigenous participation, and fostered meaningful conversations on how the sector can continue to engage with Traditional Owners. Discussions focused on the integration of indigenous knowledge and practices into ongoing research.
Another major highlight was the dinner event held at the Hanging Gardens which featured an incredible all-night performance by duet Gus Leighton on the saxophone and DJ Hugo Bladel.
Challenges
With 850 abstracts submitted, organisers faced difficulties accommodating all speakers and sessions into the programme. Creative solutions, such as half-length talks and increased interactive poster sessions, ensured inclusivity while maintaining the event’s high standards.
Before the conference, organisers encouraged attendees to plan ahead to ensure they could navigate the packed schedule effectively and maximise the amount of research they engaged with.
While busy, the packed schedule was handled seamlessly and professionally by Hobart’s Hotel Grand Chancellor and its friendly staff who were always available to assist delegates navigate to the numerous concurrent sessions.
The event’s outcomes reflected a collaborative spirit within the marine science community that has paved the way for future initiatives and events in the sector to be hosted in Tasmania.
Event AMSA-NZMSS Annual Conference 2024
Organiser ASN Events
Venue Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart
Date: September 15-19, 2024
Attendance 906 delegates
