MEMB NewsER
Report on the IIMS Australasia tour For much of July, IIMS CEO, Mike Schwarz, was on the road visiting New
Zealand and Australia, meeting Institute members.
Mike takes up the story in his own words. “I made my first trip to meet members and others at an IIMS hosted event in Auckland. My visit coincided with a dramatic storm which hit New Zealand, but that did little to dampen the spirits of those who attended. I’d like to express my gratitude, in particular, to long standing IIMS member, Stan Collett, who encouraged me to make the long journey – and I am glad I did. It was also a great opportunity to spend time with representatives from Maritime New Zealand, the country’s regulator, and I extend my thanks to Mark Potter and his team. We have plenty to discuss over the coming months, it seems too and will continue to develop our relationship.
“Those who spoke at the event did so with passion for their subjects and I have left with the overall impression that the New Zealand surveying profession and those involved in driving new technologies in vessel design and construction are at the top of their game.
“Leaving behind the indifferent Auckland winter climate, I headed for Brisbane on Australia’s east coast. I hosted a two-day seminar for a group of highly engaged IIMS members, students, and others. I’d like to express my deep thanks to Mick Uberti, who assembled such a powerful and varied speaker line-up across the two days. Sadly, Mick was unable to be at the event due to unforeseen personal reasons. Topics presented covered corrosion, welding inspections, conducting damage surveys, the developing AI technology affecting surveyors, mentoring and electrical surveying. We also heard from Justin and Ash who work for AMSA, the Australian regulator.
“I also met Andrew Fielding, CEO of the Boating Industry Association, and had time to chat with him. We have agreed to continue our dialogue going forward. The Boating Industry Association Ltd is the peak industry body in Australia that represents the interests of boating. As a not-for-profit organisation led by industry for industry, their mission is to support their members to build thriving marine businesses. Growing the IIMS network adds value for all involved.
“Following both events, the feedback I have received, both directly and indirectly, has been extraordinary and I am grateful to all those who contributed fully, and made me feel so welcome, and who listened so intently to the presenters. If I have one regret, it is simply I wish I had made it to Australasia sooner than I did.”
Something unexpected came out of the Brisbane event, which is now being pursued. We are now in the early stages of trying to see if we can reformulate an IIMS Australiasian Branch. Watch for more details.
Andrew Fielding (right), CEO of the Boating Industry Association
40 | ISSUE 113 | SEP 2025 | THE REPORT
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