In-house printers draw new members in Auckland

The theme of the two-day conference More than two hours ahead reflected the sector’s on-demand ethos. The newly badged Network of In-house Print Professionals Australasia (NIPPA) attracted a considerable attendance of non-members, who enjoyed the association’s trademark innovative event.

Through a series of workshops, presentations and role-playing hypotheticals with vendors, delegates were able to share first hand the experiences of their peers in their journey to create value for their host organisations. Bill Moody from University of Wollongong, Craig Campbell form Wellington City Council and Rob Roberts form Massey University were key presenters.

They shared their triumphs as well as some “traps for young players” with delegates and, in particular, for those less experienced managers forging their way in this unique sector of the industry. Working in isolation and feeling a sense of self doubt fall by the wayside during these conferences. The organisers made sure that there was ample of time for delegates to network among themselves and with the vendor sponsors present.

The timing of the conference with Printech 06 was another opportunity for delegates to experience the latest technology on offer while they were in Auckland. Vendor sponsors teed up special demonstrations for conference delegates. This rounded off a nice blend of professional development in that it provided some technology updates to go with the knowledge sharing from their peers.

The unanimous highlight of the conference was the keynote address by Brian McLennan (pictured), the coach of the victorious Kiwis Rugby League team at the recent tri-nations series between Great Britain, Australia and New Zealand. He was quick to point out to organisers that public speaking was quite a new experience for him although no one could tell. It goes to show that when you have a good story to tell people look past the performance and into the substance.