Wrap: AMCA National Conference 2023

6 September 2023

Underpinned by the theme of 'Brave New World', #Cambodia23 offered a mix of business education, strategic industry leadership, and once-in-a-lifetime cultural experiences.  

Thank you to the 100 delegates and their families for attending the 2023 AMCA Australia National Conference, held at the stunning Raffles d’Angkor Grand Hotel, Siem Reap.

Guests were welcomed to the Conference with a gourmet poolside function kindly presented by event partners Reece-HVAC.

The next day saw the business sessions commence.

We heard opening speeches by Scott Williams and Michael Anthony on the vision and strategic direction of the AMCA.

This was followed by presentations by Tracey Shelton (journalist) and Geraldine Cox (founder of Sunrise Orphanage). Tracey spoke of how perseverance, taking risks and being brave have led her to where she is today and has given her a fulfilled life. Geraldine spoke about the journey of founding the Sunrise orphanage 30 years ago and how it has led to a rich life – a different kind of wealth. We then undertook a fundraising campaign on Sunrise’s behalf, resulting in donations of $53,000 and many delegates pledging $50/month. If you would like to contribute to this wonderful cause please visit the Sunrise website. 

Tim Wade spoke about the future of work, diving into leading research about leadership and workplace challenges and how to look for opportunities to solve these challenges. The entire group then came together for a Solution Storming session where everyone offered solutions to the major challenges our industry faces.

Tim has committed to give something back for every speaking engagement he gives through B1G1.com. On behalf of the AMCA conference Tim committed to: 

  1. Planting 20 trees in Kenya through the Mango Tree Orphan Trust to triple-offset his flights

  1. Donated 300 bricks to build a classroom in Cambodia

  1. Donated 5 sets of school uniforms so Cambodian kids from poor families can go to school  

Rounding out Day 1, we heard from a series of speakers who addressed the theme ‘Leadership for a Brave New World’, where our partner organisations shared how their organisation has demonstrated bold or brave leadership:

  • Matt Sleap from Holyoake by Price
  • Kristian Kirwin from Camfil
  • Rob Clark from Reece HVAC
  • Vance Rowe from Holyoake by Price gave an update on validating the installation of fire and smoke dampers

In the evening the entire delegation were treated to a traditional Khmer feast at Malis Restaurant, thanks to our partners Holyoake by Price.

On Wednesday we were up very early to view a spectacular sunrise over the ancient temple of Angkor Wat, followed by a personal guided tour. We broke for refreshments at Sala Kdei, before touring two more temples – Ta Prohm and Bayon Temples. In the evening we enjoyed a cocktail evening, including signature Raffles d’Angkor cocktails, thanks to our Platinum partner Victaulic.

The Thursday business sessions were riveting. Jason Clarke spoke about how to make change happen, turning wild ideas into cunning plans and making decisions you (probably) won’t regret. Nick Espinosa followed with a thought-provoking presentation about where the future is taking us with technology, how to quantify risk, and how to protect yourself and your business from cyber risks. Sam Burke from Milwaukee and Michael Hamilton from Seeley International rounded out the ‘Leadership for a Brave New World’ speaker series.

The day ended with a presentation and fundraising drive for AMCA Australia’s charity partner, The Kids’ Cancer Project. We were overwhelmed with the generosity of our members, who after pledging more than $50,000 to support Sunrise Cambodia, then pledged over $100,000 for The Kids’ Cancer Project. Thanks to Nick Spencer who offered to have his head shaved, all in the name of raising money.

To add to this fundraising effort, anyone (even if you didn't attend the conference) can participate in an online auction – we encourage all our members to check out the auction and bid on the terrific prizes up for grabs, including:

  • Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ 11 Piece Power Pack 11A3
  • Milwaukee PACKOUT™ Stack
  • Signed Richmond Jumper by Jack Riewoldt
  • Kaden R410A Wall Mounted Air Conditioner KS18 5.0kW kit
  • Response Radiance - 3 in 1 Bathroom Heater, Exhaust Fan and Light
  • Exhibition booth at HVAC Innovation Forum on 24 November 2024 (Sydney)
  • 1 x registration in AMCA's BSB40920 Certificate IV in Project Management Practice course
  • WOTSO Permanent Desk for 6 months
  • Standard Christmas for a Cure - Table of 10

In the evening we were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime gala dinner at Kravan temple thanks to event partner Milwaukee Tool. Built in the 10th Century, the temple was an impressive backdrop to the dinner and the accompanying performances from traditional Apsara dancers and performers. It certainly was a moment to remember.

The Kids’ Cancer Project - online auction (closes 20 October @ 5pm) 

Download business session slides

See all event photos