Reflections from Victorian Chair - August 24

Highlights

Launch of the ESG Special Interest Group (SIG): Our August Branch forum marked the exciting launch of Victoria’s fourth SIG, focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues. Led by Dilan Jeyasekera MACS, the SIG has already sparked significant interest and will be hosting several upcoming events.

Pearcey Oration Attendance: On September 4th, we attended the annual Pearcey Oration, featuring Dr. Ian Opperman FACS, who shared his insights on how data, AI, and privacy will impact future generations. It was a thought-provoking evening with notable attendees including our President Helen McHugh MACS Snr and CEO Josh Griggs MACS Snr.

Dear ACS Victoria Members,

A lot is happening as we settle into our new base at 555 Collins Street. I had the honour to host our August Branch forum featuring Terence Jeyaretnam, of EY speaking on the hot topic of ESG and climate change. We stress-tested our new accommodation with over 90 members in the room and 140+ online.

This forum also doubled as the launch for Victoria’s fourth Special Interest group on ESG. Dilan Jeyasekera MACS is leading this SIG and made an excellent Master of Ceremonies for the evening. There has already been plenty of interest in participating. The SIG is planning several events so keep watch on announcements, or better still contact us if you want to learn more.

Our Branch is now delivering multiple events from 555 and attendances have been strong. We are routinely delivering events to cater to in person and virtual attendances. The Data and AI SIG, the Cyber Security SIG, the BlockChain SIG and Diversity and Inclusion Council have all hosted events and we have a full schedule planned. Many thanks to respective leads of these groups, Manjusha Bhakta MACS, Josef Oduwo MACS Snr, Stephen Zuluaga MACS snr, Dolly Brtan MACS Snr, and Dr Ruwangi Fernando MACS. Without the dedication of these members these key knowledge-sharing forums would not be possible. Check the events page for details of upcoming events.

On 4th September Josef Oduwo, MACS Snr, and A/Prof Karl Reed FACS, and myself attended the annual Pearcey Oration. We were treated to a presentation by Dr Ian Opperman FACS and past President of ACS. Ian shared his reflections on the outlook for an individual born today and how data, AI and privacy concerns will shape their lives. Our President Helen McHugh MACS Snr, CEO Josh Griggs MACS Snr, and Chair NSW Cindy Chung MACS were also in attendance.

Remember, our Branch forums are scheduled on the second Tuesday of each month and feature some great speakers and guests. All of our events will continue to be in person with an option for virtual attendance and I look forward to greeting you soon.

With Regards

Dr Rod Dilnutt FACS CP

Chair, ACS Victoria