World-leading climate scientist Professor Gretta Pecl said conferences hosted in Tasmania are strengthening the state’s scientific community and global connections.

A Professor of Climate Change Ecology at the University of Tasmania and a Lead Author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, she is also one of Business Events Tasmania’s Visionaries, a group of respected Tasmanians using their international standing to advocate for Tasmania as a destination for major scientific meetings and knowledge focused events.

 

“Conferences are where ideas are tested, collaborations begin and the direction of future research is shaped,” Professor Pecl said.

“When those conversations happen in Tasmania, they really put the State on the map and showcase everything Tasmania has to offer.

“In 2016, hosting the Species on the Move conference in Hobart brought global experts together to confront how climate change is reshaping life on Earth. Events like this do not just share knowledge, they build relationships and momentum that last well beyond the conference itself.”

 

Business Events Tasmania board member, Matt Cocker, said the Visionary Program recognises the role Tasmanians like Professor Pecl already play in shaping global conversations.

 

“These are people whose voices carry weight internationally,” Mr Cocker said.

“Our role is to support that leadership and help translate it into events that deliver lasting value for Tasmania.”

He said the benefits of business events extend well beyond visitor spend.

“Conferences connect Tasmanian researchers to global collaborators, expose local talent to international thinking and help attract skilled people who choose to return, relocate or build their careers here.

“More than 90 per cent of delegates attending business events in Tasmania come from interstate or overseas, many from research intensive and knowledge driven sectors. When they come here, they engage directly with our researchers and our communities.”

 

Professor Pecl said hosting global scientific conversations in Tasmania strengthens the state’s research ecosystem.

 

“These events elevate our international profile and help to inspire the next generation of Tasmanian scientists.  They show that from a small island state, we can lead on some of the biggest challenges facing the planet.”

 

Mr Cocker said Business Events Tasmania works with Visionaries and institutions to attract events aligned with Tasmania’s strengths, including climate science, marine and Antarctic research, health and advanced technology.

 

You can continue exploring more about the BET Visionary Program here.