Research to impact AFAC18

International keynote speakers, panel discussions and researchers from CRC projects will share their latest findings at AFAC18 powered by INTERSCHUTZ, the annual Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC and AFAC conference.

The full conference program was revealed earlier this week, with over 2000 people involved in the emergency services sector expected to attend the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from 5-8 September. This year’s theme is ‘changing lives in a changing world’.

The conference provides the perfect opportunity to network, discuss and learn all about the latest scientific research in the sector, believes CRC CEO Dr Richard Thornton

“In Perth this year you will see and hear about our innovation, and how the research we are conducting is making a difference,” says Dr Thornton.

The conference will start with the CRC’s Research Forum that showcases the latest developments and findings in CRC research projects, as well as the latest science from outside the CRC. This opportunity enables the research community and emergency managers to get involved in industry issues and discuss the latest natural hazards science. Topics include bushfire and smoke modelling, communication, risk management, flood and wind, health and wellbeing, and schools and youth.

“You will have the opportunity to meet our scientists and create networks that will enable you to embed the latest knowledge into your business,” Dr Thornton says.

Dr Neil Burrows from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and Anna-Maria Arabia from the Australian Academy of Science will both present as keynote speakers at the CRC’s Research Forum.

Dr Burrows will discuss sustainable management in marine and terrestrial environments, while Anna-Maria will present on science policy and advocacy. The Forum will conclude with a panel session on the perils of decision making for complex hazards.

The conference will also feature several keynote speakers across days two and three, including Commissioner Eric Yap from the Singaporean Civil Defence Force and Colonel Mike Mullane, a former NASA astronaut.

This year’s conference will also feature the Australian Disaster Resilience Conference (ADRC) running concurrently on days two and three as a separate stream. This will feature presentations on disaster resilience, policy reform and a panel discussion on disaster risk education chaired by CRC researcher Dr Briony Towers.

AFAC18 will conclude with a professional development program and a field trip to the south west region of Western Australia where there will be insights on the complexities of prescribed burning.

Over 100 exhibitors will also feature at the conference, showcasing the best of emergency services in the air, land and sea.

CRC researchers will be advised regarding their registrations while staff and volunteers from fire and emergency service agencies should contact their agency directly to found out about their registration for the conference.

You can now register for an earlybird ticket to the conference before 29 June for a discounted price.

AFAC18 powered by INTERSCHUTZ will be held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre on 5-8 September.

You can view the full program on the conference website.