It's Time to Look Outside the Triangle

Our upcoming 2024 National Conference is being held in Geelong on the 18 & 19 March, 2024. This is the first time out of Queensland in 10 years and the first time we have gone to the regions.

The conference is designed to expand our members’ perspectives by thinking beyond the conventional. We have invited professionals who will guide attendees in understanding future housing scenarios, highlight potential threats to our market position, provide strategies for navigating the industrial environment, offer advice on defending your business from work cover claims, and shed light on future framing possibilities. These are just some of the subjects we will cover at the conference.

We are thrilled to announce the esteemed speakers who will join us at the conference. IndustryEdge’s Tim Woods, WoodSolutions’ Karl-Heinz Weiss, Arboralis’ Nick Hewson, Brenda Garrard-Forster from HR Anywhere, and Dr. Alastair Woodard will all be attending. Each will bring their professional expertise and unique perspectives to our gathering.

Our keynote speaker, sponsored by our Principal Partner MiTek, is the renowned adventurer and environmentalist, Tim Jarvis. He is known for his challenging expeditions that raise awareness of environmental issues. At the conference, he will talk about the importance of leadership in adversity, a topic that carries significant relevance in our current global scenario. We can assure you that the knowledge and insights gained from our speakers will be well worth your time and participation.

FTMA Art Show

The innovative concept of the FTMA Art Show is a unique way to showcase our valued partners and sponsors. Instead of a traditional trade exhibit, these stakeholders are invited to submit a piece of art that embodies their business ethos and reflects their identity. This approach provides a deeper understanding of who our partners are, what they stand for, and why delegates should engage with them.

Following the conference, the pieces will be gathered into a stunning art book. This book, which will be sent to every fabricator in Australia, serves as a tangible and lasting reminder of our partners’ commitment to the industry.

Red Activities Day

The Red Activities Day is an integral part of the conference, serving as both a networking opportunity and a day of relaxation and fun before the more formal proceedings commence. Delegates can choose from a variety of activities, including golf, horse riding, fishing, a winery tour, or surfing. This day, generously sponsored by our Principal Partner Pryda, offers an excellent chance for delegates to network in a more relaxed setting while enjoying their chosen activities.

Following the day’s activities, the Red Activities Ice Breaker will be held at the historic Events 1915, situated in the old Federal Mill buildings. Sponsored jointly by Pryda, Meyer Timber & Vekta Automation, the Ice Breaker promises to be an unforgettable evening with excellent food, an exclusive wine collection presented by a private sommelier, and top-notch entertainment, setting the perfect tone for the conference to follow.

National Conference Dinner & Awards

The 2024 National Conference dinner, with the theme “Disco Cats,” promises to be a spectacular evening filled with merriment and celebration. Held at the GMBHA Stadium, it offers attendees an opportunity to unwind while enjoying delicious food, refreshing beverages, and compelling conversations. The night will be more than just good food and company, as it will also include the presentation of several prestigious industry awards. Sponsored by our Principal Partner Multinail, the dinner is an integral part of the conference experience and is not to be missed.

As stated, we have a number of prestigious awards. First and foremost, the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award, an established honour in our industry, will be presented as it has in previous years. This award celebrates individuals who have shown significant dedication and provided exceptional service to our industry.

Additionally, we’re introducing three new award categories this year. The FTMA Community Award is designed to recognise members who are significantly involved in their local communities, embodying our organisation’s values through their actions.

The Jackson Kidd Wellbeing Award salutes businesses that make outstanding efforts to ensure the wellbeing of their employees, a crucial aspect of modern business practice.

Lastly, the Employee Recognition of Service Award will be granted to members’ employees who have remained loyal to one employer for 10, 15, 20, or more than 25 years. This award is a testament to the importance we attach to dedication and longevity in employment.

AKD Mill Tour

On the Wednesday following the conference, FTMA will be running Mill Tours at AKD. These educational tours of the mill and plantation will be free for conference delegates.

Things to know before you register

Registration for the FTMA Conference is exclusive to fabricators, supplier members, and sponsors. Non-member suppliers are respectfully reminded that they are ineligible to attend our events. In an effort to promote maximum participation from fabricators, we have implemented a cap on supplier registrations until late February. The number of registrations is distributed among Principal Partners (10 registrations), Strategic Partners (6 registrations), Supporting Partners (4 registrations), Conference Sponsors (4 registrations), and Supplier Members (2 registrations).

We firmly believe that suppliers benefit immensely from a high turnout of fabricators. Therefore, these limitations serve to create an environment conducive to meaningful exchanges and networking. Should there be availability towards the end of February, we will consider increasing supplier registrations. This approach ensures a balanced representation of all stakeholders and a fruitful conference experience for all.

In conclusion, we are eagerly looking forward to the enriching experiences that the FTMA Conference is set to provide, from the insightful plantation and sawmill tour to the unique FTMA Art Show, all organised with the goal to inspire and educate.

If you want further information on the conference, please visit conference.ftmanews.com

You can register for the 2024 FTMA National Conference either online or by completing and returning the PDF form below to conference@ftmanews.com