NZ conference attracts over 230 participants

The Radio Frequency Users Association of New Zealand 2013 Conference & Exhibition attracted over 230 participants from both sides of the Tasman.

The Radio Frequency Users Association of New Zealand (RFUANZ) Conference & Exhibition was held on 16-17 May at Te-Papa in Wellington. The conference was the biggest yet and attracted over 230 high-quality presenters, attendees and exhibitors.

On day one, the RFUANZ held its AGM, which included a report given by Chairman Mr David Thomson and the election of a new committee. After nine years as RFUANZ Chairman, David Thomson stepped down and Bruce Harding was elected to lead the association for 2013-14.

The conference organisers say it is clear that the RFUANZ is filling a need for the radio communications industry in New Zealand, as the event attracted exhibitors and visitors from around New Zealand and Australia and provided them with an opportunity to meet, learn and network.

Presentations and ‘mingling time’ at the RFUANZ conference and exhibition.

Following the AGM, a number of informative presentations were given over the next day and a half. These included the Minister for Communications and Information Technology, the Honourable Amy Adams, plus Australian and New Zealand suppliers and other industry representatives.

The Industry Excellence Awards were presented at the RF Industries-sponsored gala dinner. Award winners in five categories were recognised for their commitment to achieving excellence within the radio communications industry. The recipients were:

• Excellence in Sales and Support (sponsored by Motorola Solutions) - Dave Parker
• Service to the Industry (sponsored by Tait Communications) - David Thomson
• Technical Excellence (sponsored by GME) - Paul Garaway
• Project Excellence (sponsored by Hytera Communications) - Jack Frost
• Outstanding Customer Service (sponsored by Vertex Standard) - Tracey Julius

Attendees over the two days were made up of a mixture of network operators, utilities, local government bodies, mobile radio solution providers and general commercial radio users.

The trade show was the largest industry-specific exhibition seen in New Zealand for many years, with 31 exhibitors present. The RFUANZ Committee says it has been extremely pleased with the feedback it has received from this year’s AGM & Conference and is looking forward to what 2014 will bring.

To learn more about the 2014 event and register your interest, contact Candice Van Dyk at admin@rfuanz.org.nz.