The first IEEE OCEANS conference to be staged ‘Down Under’ will take place in Sydney, 24–27 May 2010, with the theme ‘Showcasing Advances in Marine Science and Engineering.’ The Conference General Chair, Dr. Brian Ferguson, has issued the following invitation: ‘Let me encourage you to make the journey and be part of this international event. You may sample the OCEANS experience at a magnificent venue in a unique city that is graced by the world’s finest natural harbour and the splendour of its ocean beaches. This OCEANS conference and exhibition has been planned to provide each of you with an unforgettable human experience underpinned by Aussie humour, hospitality and friendliness.’
    Sydney is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a reputation for a cosmopolitan lifestyle, excellent shopping facilities and world-class entertainment. Local attractions and activities include the Opera House, harbour cruises, Taronga Zoo and the Harbour Bridge climb. Those wanting to venture further afield can visit Uluru ­(Ayers Rock), in Australia’s red centre, or the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland. The Conference and Exhibition will be held at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre at Darling Harbour, just minutes from Sydney’s central business and shopping district.
    OCEANS ’10 IEEE Sydney follows in the fine tradition of OCEANS conferences around the world. In addition to the OCEANS conference topics, the special topics for the Sydney conference are:

• Advances in Marine Observing Systems;
• Advances in Marine Management;
• Advances in Underwater Imaging and Mapping;
• Advances in Understanding of the Southern Oceans;
• Advances in Exploration and Recovery for the Offshore Oil and Gas Industry;
• Advances in Understanding of the Impact of Climate Change on the Oceans; and
• Advances in Understanding of Marine Environments in the Western Pacific.

In Sydney we will be able to showcase internationally Australia’s capabilities in marine science and ocean engineering. The conference and exhibition will bring together experts, practitioners, industry representatives and students from a range of disciplines and perspectives to exchange knowledge, develop expertise and build collaborative ties in ocean science and technology areas. The exhibition will enable us to see and feel the latest sensors, systems, structures, information processing and display tools that are used to probe, measure, monitor and manage the world’s oceans.
    During the recent OCEANS ’09 Conference in Bremen, Germany, an Australian opal jewellery prize was drawn in the OCEANS ’10 IEEE Sydney booth. We are delighted to announce that the winner of the opal cuff links prize was Christophe Sintes of Brest, France. Congratulations Christophe!
    Venture down under for an unforgettable OCEANS experience! For further information about the conference and exhibition, and the attractions of Sydney and Australia, please see our website—www.oceans10ieeesydney.org—or contact us at info@oceans10ieeesydney.org.