Held at Royal on the Park, Brisbane, Queensland, from 22–24 March 2009, the inaugural FutureGAS 2009 Conference was attended by approximately 260 delegates.
A varied speaker program covered developments from a wide cross section of the industry – from commercial through to technical, operations and project updates, while a trade exhibition enabled delegates to see the latest equipment, services and technology on offer.
Event Partner MWM Sales Manager Simon Helps welcomed attendees to the Conference, speaking about the importance of the industry and the benefits that could be gained from browsing through the exhibition and listening to the detailed speakers program.
Industry talks gas
Article continues below…The two-day speaker program began with an opening address from industry stalwart Ollie Clark AM, who spoke about the importance of working together to bring together the gas industry.
Mr Clark spoke about how companies involved in different areas of the industry – including production, distribution and resale – should come together to promote natural gas as a fuel source.
“There is change in the air as an era approaches in which…the low capital cost, flexibility and advanced technology of gas-fired combined-cycle and cogeneration power generation options are better appreciated,” Mr Clark said.
Other speakers addressed upcoming projects, challenges and lessons learnt from previous projects, technical developments that can improve industry efficiency, as well as legal and financial considerations.
A panel discussion, comprising Pitt&Sherry Principal Consultant and former Clean Energy Council CEO Dominique La Fontaine, Parsons Brinckerhoff Climate Change Executive Arek Sinanian, Mallesons’ Stephen Jaques and Special Counsel Matthew Austin, outlined the issues concerning an emissions trading scheme for the gas industry. The discussion sparked much interest with attendees asking many questions.
Speaker sessions were well attended and delegates enjoyed learning about different aspects of the industry in more detail.
Exhibiting gas
The trade exhibition hosted many stands showcasing a variety of companies and products that service the industry.
The social side
The trade exhibition kicked off with Opening Cocktails on the Sunday night. Sponsored by Chart Energy & Chemicals, the cocktails allowed delegates and exhibitors to catch up with old industry friends and make new contacts before the business sessions commenced on. On Monday night, the Gala Dinner brought together delegates in a relaxed setting.
All set for next year
The 2009 FutureGAS Conference proved thoroughly enjoyable, with delegates looking forward to next year. The Conference’s success has set a high standard for 2010, which will be again held in Brisbane from 9–11 March.
For more information on FutureGAS 2010, visit the website and register your interest today.
