The recent focus given to climate change by the Technical Policy Committee reminds us of the Institute’s unique ability to draw upon the widest spectrum of expertise in the marine sector, anywhere in the world. The scientific evidence recently articulated in the Climate Change Position Statement by our learned science team under Professor Ralph Rayner, begs the need for new technologies and solutions to be engineered and funded by the marine community worldwide.
As I write this I am flying over a huge expanse of desert down-under, following an invitation from the Western Australian Government to visit one of the world’s most advanced wave energy schemes, a revolutionary ship support concept at Henderson called a Common-User Facility, and to get a feel for the enormity of the LNG extraction off their NW coast. Add to this the study by Marine Scientists into some unique oceanographic conditions, and coral reefs, and there is something for everyone in the Institute in this part of the world.
Australia is just one example of where the Institute is now embarking on growing profitable membership in a number of parts of the world, using a multi-level marketing approach, engaging members and Marine Partners to support the HQ’s drive. Within this edition of the Marine Professional are details of how you can earn a 25% reduction on your 2010 subscription, by doing your bit for the Institute and recruiting a new corporate member.
At the Divisional level SEAD and ANZSPAC now have annual targets which we have set to recruit new members and new Marine Partners in their regions. Soon this will be expanded to focus on Greece and Cyprus, and the Middle East. Such is the potential that in addition to Greg Bondar in Australia, the Institute now employs Jenny Seow in Singapore and more recently, Chris Hall, to assist us in the Middle East Division.
In the meantime I would like Branches to be aware that the HQ team is working hard to improve its responsiveness to enquiries about Membership and Registration applications, and to ensure our processes are capable of coping with an increased load. We recently conducted a thorough process review, and held a series of Professional Review Interviews (PRIs), for which I would like to express my sincere thanks to those PRI Assessors who gave of their valuable time.
John Wills, Director, Membership Services & Professional Affairs
john.wills@imarest.org