From the CEO….
Today’s column is an in-progress report of the initiative of the Queensland Government, BIA and the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) to deliver a landmark series of briefings to industry on Sustainability and Decarbonisation across Queensland.
The Decarb’ Sessions, led by Dr Thomas Wechselberger, Project Manager (Maritime) State Development Group, Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning is the first industry release in Australia of the ICOMIA Propelling Our Future campaign. The aim of this ICOMIA campaign is the educate and advance the recreational boating industry on research-driven technology solutions to reduce carbon emissions.
We are intending to hold further seminars in NSW, Vic and SA, more info to follow. Our first sessions were held on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane, with two other sessions being held in Mackay today and Cairns tomorrow. The Ricardo study, as commissioned by ICOMIA, and named “Propelling our Future” is based on key recreational boating data from across the world.
Keynote speaker was Darren Vaux, Director of BIA Ltd and President of ICOMIA, who delivered the ‘study’ by Ricardo at METS 14 November and has now delivered the ‘study’ here in Australia and is working out next steps with other Global Marine Industry Associations, (NMMA in the USA, British Marine, etc) to ensure positive communication of this carbon finding.
Joining Darren in the presentation were BIA’s Andrew Fielding and Neil Patchett, while special guest speakers have, so far, been:
- Jonathon Rogers, of the award-winning Go Boat on their program to design, build and make operational through their own hire and drive business; and
- Tommy Ericson, of Aus Ships, who showcased a number of exciting designs in ferries and workboats incorporating sustainable propulsion systems.
Throughout this decarbonisation journey, we are working with ICOMIA, Governments and industry to collaborate to communicate and develop a clear pathway for industry to work towards a sustainable and decarbonised community.
The BIA hold the Vice Chair role of the ICOMIA Sustainability Committee and is committed to communicating international and national findings, on a priority basis, communicate skills and training that may be required to deliver changes in sustainability production and manufacturing, and work closely with all Industry members and governments at every level.
Full seminar wrap-up and further information on Propelling Our Future will appear in future editions of eNews. Stay tuned.
See you on the water,
Andrew Scott, CEO
