Recapping a packed year of conferences
OMC was fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend many conferences throughout 2023, as both presenters and exhibitors. The year kicked off participating in the Australasian Marine Pilots Institute (AMPI) Building Resilient Pilotage Conference, held in Hobart. This set the tone for a series of conferences where we showcased the latest solutions in the maritime industry.
OMC proudly supported the inaugural African Harbour Masters Committee seminar in Tangier, organised in collaboration with IHMA (International Harbour Masters Association). Captain Jonathon Pearce addressed the challenges and opportunities in navigation, emphasising safety and optimisation.
Dr. Matthew Turner presented at the 20th IALA Conference in Rio de Janeiro, focusing on the application of digital technologies to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The presentation delved into case studies illustrating the reduction of CO2 emissions, minimisation of dredging, enhancement of navigational safety, and operational resilience through Big Data and AI. The innovations presented, including TransitAnalyst and DUKC®, demonstrating OMC International’s commitment to advancing port technologies.
Dr. Mohammadreza Javanmardi represented OMC at two significant conferences alongside our esteemed university partners at the ASME (The American Society of Mechanical Engineers) 42nd OMEA Conference in Melbourne and ISOPE23 in Ottawa. These events highlighted the role of data intelligence in enhancing decision-making systems and automating predictions.
OMC had a sizeable presence at the PIANC Coasts & Ports Conference on the Sunshine Coast. We presented several papers, showcasing the breadth of expertise involved in delivering digital port optimisation and risk management solutions. Topics covered included operational swell forecasting, insights from IoT edge vessel motion measurement devices, and the application of big data for ports, pilots, planners, and engineers.
The Port Authority of New South Wales organised a successful Safe Efficient Ports 2023 forum for Sydney Harbour and Port Botany, uniting key stakeholders to share vital industry insights. Emphasising collaborative port operations, the forum covered topics such as operational performance, productivity trends, marine safety, sustainability, technology, and best practices. OMC’s CEO, Peter O’Brien, highlighted innovative technologies that facilitated the arrival of the deepest container vessels into Australian ports and accommodated the deepest tankers into Botany and Ampol Australia’s Kurnell terminal.
Trelleborg’s inaugural Port Management and Navigation Seminar, held in Dubai, featured a comprehensive program encompassing expert-led sessions on key maritime topics. The agenda covered discussions on sustainable shipping, cyber security, and the future of smart ports. OMC’s Captain Jonathon Pearce presented “In the Pursuit of Port Sustainability Through the Use of Technology,” showcasing the integration of Saqr Port’s Dynamic Under Keel Clearance® system with tide and weather system from OceanWise. This collaboration was demonstrated to effectively reduce the carbon footprint of shipping.
Other conference highlights included attending Ports Australia’s Business and Operations Conference, the BULK2023, AMPI Perth, PIANC COPDEC, IAPH, and the Smart Digital Ports of the Future (North America) conference.
OMC International’s participation and presentations at these conferences emphasise our commitment to innovation and technological advancements in the maritime industry. We continue to endeavour to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of port operations, safety, and sustainability.