Held from 16 to 20 February at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart, the conference will explore the theme Southern Skies, Southern Oceans: Science on the Edge, bringing together experts working at the forefront of weather, climate and ocean research.

Secured through the Business Events Tasmania’s (BET) Business Events Attraction Fund (BEAF), the conference is strategically aligned with Tasmania’s globally recognised strengths in Antarctic and Southern Ocean science.

The five-day program will feature a strong contingent of local speakers including Chief Scientist at the Australian Antarctic Division Professor Nerilie Abram, Senior Research Associate with the Australian Antarctic Program Partnership Dr Tessa Vance and Senior Research Associate at the University of Tasmania and the Australian Antarctic Program Partnership Dr Annie Foppert.

AMOS Executive Officer Jeanette Dargaville said Hobart was the natural home for this conference.

 

“Hobart’s established marine and Antarctic research programs, combined with world-class expertise in meteorology and oceanography, make it an ideal setting for conversations about science on the edge,” she said.

 

“One of the reasons we were so excited to bring AMOS 2026 to Hobart is the strong sense of scientific community here.

 

“The city offers the scale and connectivity that encourages meaningful collaboration, while still delivering access to globally significant research institutions.

 

“A key focus of this conference is inspiring the next generation and by incorporating visits from local schools into the program we will give students direct access to scientists working at the forefront of weather, climate and ocean research.”

 

BET CEO Marnie Craig said the conference reflected the state’s position as a natural home for discussions about climate and ocean science.

 

Image Credit: The Bakery Creative Agency, Josef Chromy Winery

 

“With our proximity to Antarctica, our globally respected research institutions and our strong pipeline of emerging scientists, this conference aligns perfectly with our strategic strengths,” Ms Craig said.

 

Ms Craig said the event would deliver significant economic benefits and create lasting value for the local scientific and student community.

 

“Strategic business events like this profile local expertise on a national stage,” she said.

 

“They provide opportunities for our researchers to connect with peers, for our students to engage with leaders in their field and for Tasmania to reinforce its reputation as a centre for Antarctic and ocean science.”

 

Ms Craig said BET was focused on growing the value of the sector to $600 million by 2034 through its expanding Visionary Program, which connected event organisers with local industry leaders and advocates.

 

“We want to grow our network of visionaries from 27 to 200 leaders across the state who help attract and support conferences that align with Tasmania’s strengths,” she said.

 

“This approach will build long-term impact for Tasmanian industries, institutions and communities.”

 

More information about the conference is available at www.amos.org.au.