A Message from Our RIMPA Live 2024 Scholarship Winner
I was very excited to receive the Scholarship and represent TasNetworks, not only for the opportunity to attend the conference but to meet others in the records and information industry. It was a chance to connect with others in person and was invaluable, the immense effort put into making the event run so smoothly was clearly evident. For me it really bought to light the sense of belonging in the often-isolated field of records management. From the insightful presentations to the collaborative networking, I didn’t anticipate gaining so much from attending. The time and energy invested were more than worthwhile, leaving me not only enriched with knowledge but also with a lasting sense of community and with the hope to return next year.
The official opening Welcome Reception was held on the Regatta Lawns outside of the Adelaide convention Centre. It was kicked off with a beautiful smoking ceremony from Jack Kanya Kudnuitya Buckskin and a splash of tropical fun at an Aloha themed welcome reception. Wearing our finest Hawaiian shirts, island tunes, prizes for best dressed attendee as well as testing our skills on a mechanical surfboard. The night was filled with laughter, new connections within a relaxed environment.
The conference featured a stellar lineup of sessions and keynote speakers, each offering unique perspectives and cutting-edge knowledge. With a broad range of topics—from emerging technologies in records management to effective data governance strategies—the conference catered to professionals across various specialties. A notable highlight was the keynote address, which explored the future of information management and the role of innovation in shaping industry practices. The speaker’s insights into navigating the evolving landscape of digital records and data management were both thought-provoking and practical, providing attendees with valuable takeaways.
A particularly memorable session was led by Wendy McLain, past director of ARMA International, on the first day of the conference. McLain took a light-hearted approach to addressing the challenges introverts face at in-person events. Her tips and tricks for surviving and thriving in such environments were both amusing and practical. Inspired by her session, I headed to the mall and bought some fuzzy comfy slippers for my stay 4 night stay in Adelaide—a small but cherished comfort that made the event even more enjoyable.
The black-tie gala dinner was especially memorable, not just for the amazing food but also for the camaraderie it fostered. It was a chance to enjoy great company, celebrate the awards, and take in the overall sense of community that had developed over the course of the conference and also to have a dance!
The conference sessions were thoughtfully curated, covering a wide range of topics pertinent to records and information management, alongside professional development discussions. A standout for me was Nick Abrahams’ presentation on AI and the metaverse. His insights were both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a glimpse into the future of the industry. The variety of topics and well-structured schedule kept me fully engaged throughout the four days, ensuring that there was always something relevant and interesting to learn.
Another highlight was the “Pitch Perfect: Next Wave Showdown!” where trade vendors had just 60 seconds to captivate the audience and showcase their innovations. The presentations were incredibly entertaining, featuring a mix of acting, song and dance, and even some Raygun moves. This energetic and creative showcase not only had the audience laughing but also sparked curiosity to explore the vendors' offerings further.
The RIMPA Live Conference 2024 far exceeded my expectations. With its stunning venue, exceptional food, and a wealth of informative sessions, it proved to be an event worth attending and I would do it again in a heartbeat. What truly set this conference apart was the strong sense of community within RIMPA where everyone was welcoming and eager to connect. It wasn’t just about acquiring knowledge; it was about establishing meaningful relationships and feeling part of a larger professional family. The time and resources invested were more than worthwhile, leaving a lasting impact on my professional growth and personal connections.
Toni Taylor | TasNetworks
