Leading researchers will showcase the latest findings from CRC projects at AFAC16 powered by INTERSCHUTZ, the annual Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC and AFAC conference.
With the program now announced, more than 1500 delegates involved in emergency management will gather in Brisbane from 30 August to 2 September to discuss the latest trends, innovations and challenges across all hazards.
The conference begins with day dedicated to natural hazards science, with the Research Forum highlighting important discoveries from many CRC projects, as well as other scientists. It is a day to learn about the latest scientific developments that will benefit Australia’s emergency services, and is not just for researchers, says CRC CEO Dr Richard Thornton.
“Research findings are starting to flow from the CRC in our third year, and the Research Forum presents a fantastic opportunity for all emergency management practitioners to learn about the range of ways CRC science will make a difference,” Dr Thornton said.
“Our research is diverse – from optimising remotely sensed flood data, to fire modelling, to cyclone resilience, to policy and fire law, to name just a few examples – and this variety will be showcased at the Research Forum, as well as right through the conference week.”
“It is a great opportunity for emergency and land managers to engage directly with researchers on key industry issues,” said Dr Thornton.
Confirmed keynote and invited speakers include:
Katarina Carroll, Commissioner Queensland Fire and Emergency Services
Rhoda Mae Kerr, Chief of the Austin Fire Department in the US and President of the Board of Directors of the International Association of Fire Chiefs
Dr Jeff Kepert of the Centre for Australian Weather and Climate Research and CRC project leader
Frankie Carroll, Director-General of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning, Queensland
The conference will also feature an immersive trade exhibition, the biggest yet thanks to a new partnership with Hannover Fairs Australia – and close with a series of post-conference development sessions on 2 September.
CRC researchers will be advised in due course about registrations, while staff and volunteers of fire and emergency service agencies should contact their agency to find out about internal selection processes for conference attendance.
Earlybird registrations are now open – register before 24 June to get the discounted price.