Welcome Address - AMSA 2025 Organising Committee Chair

On behalf of the organising committee, it’s my pleasure to welcome you all to the 59th Australian Marine Sciences Association (AMSA) Conference. We’re thrilled to bring a week full of engaging talks, cutting edge research and exciting social events here in the vibrant city of Naarm, Melbourne, Victoria.

This year’s theme, ‘Harmony in Marine Systems’ aims to bring together scientists, policymakers and industry leaders; integrate Indigenous and western knowledge systems and foster collaboration allowing the marine environment to thrive into the future. We look forward to talks achieving harmony across many marine spaces from individual reefs to entire ecosystems, as well social harmony among the many people who use and rely on the ocean every day. With 27 symposia and over 400 presenters AMSA remains the pinnacle conference in marine science in Australia, especially in this time of rapid environmental change.

I’d like to express my sincere and deepest thanks to Ally, Prue and the Scientific Committee. They have done an incredible job of fitting a diverse range of talks into a busy schedule, with an engaging social calendar to allow everyone to network, relax and enjoy. I’d also like to thank Laura, Jodi and Chels and the Indigenous engagement sub-committee for their hard work designing and planning the Indigenous workshop and creating a safe and welcoming space for Community to meet and talk. AMSA has always had great representation across Indigenous spaces and research, and I hope this conference builds upon the foundation of the 2024 Nipaluna statement.

Of course, this conference would not have been possible without the generous support of the many sponsors and exhibitors. I encourage you all to check them out on the website and say hello as you wander past the booths throughout the conference.

For a taste of what’s to come, we have some fantastic social events beginning with the Welcome evening, an engaging poster session with prizes to be won, and a discussion panel open to the general public discussing ‘Why Oceans Matter’. This will enable the public to meet with and hear from leaders in the marine space and allow future generations to get involved and hopefully inspire their love for the ocean and a passion for science. The week culminates with the Gala Dinner, with an iconic Melbourne twist. Hosted at Il Mercato Centrale in the heart of Melbourne and joined by the energetic ‘Brass Bogans’, an eight-piece brass brand covering hits from ACDC, INXS and more. Expect a lively atmosphere with plenty of great food and drinks, live music, and opportunities to relax and connect with colleagues from across the country.

Make sure to bring your coffee cups, as Melbourne is of course the undisputed coffee capital of Australia. Don't forget your scarves and beanies if you plan to head over to MCG to cheer on your AFL team, AAMI park to watch the mighty Storm, or head to Rod Laver to catch to the basketball, netball and the many other sports on offer. If sport isn’t your thing, then head further afield and to enjoy some of the iconic coastlines Victoria has to offer from the Great Ocean Road and the Twelve Apostles, then Penguins down on Phillip Island, or go hunting for dragons amongst the seagrass on the Mornington Peninsula.

I look forward to personally welcoming you all to an engaging, inspiring and unforgettable event.

Morgan Ellis
Chair, AMSA 2025 Organising Committee

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