Held at the Cairns Convention Centre, Queensland, the Convention addressed technical, environmental and economic issues; provided up-to-date information about projects and international issues; and looked at new developments in the industry.

More than 400 delegates attended the Convention, which returned to Cairns after 19 years.

A number of informative papers were presented as part of the two-day business session. Following addresses from APIA President Ashley Kellett and Chief Executive Cheryl Cartwright, the Queensland Parliamentary Secretary for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy and Trade Michael Choi, opened the Convention.

The Executive Chairman of Cape York Partnerships Noel Pearson spoke passionately about the need for reasonable development, including pipeline projects, on Aboriginal land to improve economic stability for Aboriginal communities.

Delegates attending the Monday business program also heard presentations covering new developments, climate change, safety and technical integrity, design and construction.

Tuesday’s business session opened with a keynote speech from National Energy Board of Canada Professional Leader Alan Murray about regulation issues for Canadian pipelines, the elimination of hydrotesting, and similarities and differences between the Canadian and Australian pipeline industries.

The rest of the day looked at pipeline operations issues and the environment. APA Group Manager Asset Management and Engineering Craig Bonar and Peter Tuft of Peter Tuft and Associates provided an outline of the pipeline incident database, while Vermeer Applications Engineer Jim Hutchins spoke about improving the environmental aspects of pipeline installation.

The business program was capped off with the ever popular projects and innovations stream, featuring presentations about the SEA Gas Pipeline, the 42 inch Colongra Lateral, and the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline.

Held in conjunction with the business program, the exhibition provided an excellent forum for companies to display their new innovations.

Last year's exhibition held approximately 60 stands, showcasing products and services ranging from construction companies to pipeline pig providers to machinery and portable camp suppliers.

The exhibition area was constantly busy with delegates mingling about the stands, making key contacts for future business and consolidating old ones.

The 42nd APIA Convention, to be held at the new Darwin Convention Centre from 11–14 September 2010, is set to be another great success, focusing on ‘Australia’s pipeline industry – local expertise; international influence’.