David Hollott M I Ref Eng is elected to steer the IRE Australasia branch for the coming term. Here, he sets out his ambitions to further develop the institute in the southern hemisphere. I was honoured to be elected to the position of the Australasia Branch President during our branch AGM in May this year and I wish to thank the members for putting their faith and trust in me to take on this important role.
As many in Australasia are aware, I have enjoyed a lifelong career in refractories spanning over 47 years, joined the IRE in 1989, was a member of the initial group that founded the Australian branch in 2000 and previously served as Branch President in 2004-2005. I wish to acknowledge the leadership and momentum created by our outgoing President Mario Taddeo who presided over our branch over the past three years and, with the support of the committee, has placed our branch in a strong and financially stable position. The energy Mario put into the role is appreciated by many.
I also congratulate the new and returning members of the Australasia Branch Committee and thank them for their ongoing dedication and commitment to our region. Our committee members now consist of Greg Connor – Secretary and Public Officer, Dean Tredinnick – Treasurer, Navin Singh – Assistant Secretary and Membership Officer, Wayne Wright – Training Officer. Our previous President, Mario has agreed to continue to support the committee as Acting Vice President.
On behalf of all Australasia committee and members I wish to extend a special thank you to Michael Walton, our outgoing Treasurer and longstanding committee member, who also was an integral part of the Australasia Branch founding group in 2000. Since this time Michael has dedicated much time and enthusiasm into our branch and held many committee positions, including Secretary, Training Officer and Branch President for two terms spanning 2006-2007 and 2012-2014. Michael has now chosen to retire from committee roles, however, will continue to be a valued ongoing mentor to the current committee.
As the new committee settles into their new roles our immediate focus is building on the momentum to increase the membership and training opportunities in our region. A co-ordinated membership drive commenced in June which has already provided positive results. Further, Australasia members can also expect to hear more about training activities locally, however, members are also encouraged to raise any needs, ideas or initiatives on training with our Training Officer or the committee. Membership and training will continue to be the focus of our committee meetings during 2025 and beyond.
I also look forward to being an active member of the Institute’s Council and learning of some of the initiatives for building membership and training, from the global committee in the UK and sharing any knowledge or ideas we generate from our branch. Accordingly, I am looking forward to travelling to the UK for the November conference in Sheffield and connecting with the global team in person.
Once again thank you to the Australasian members and committee for your ongoing support.
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