The Alaara Conference has come and gone for another year.

What a great event and what a great roll up of industry operators, however, it was the speakers and their sessions that grabbed me most.

How good is it to listen to these guys talk with such enthusiasm about their business?

The simple fact is that the amusement industry is moving forward at a great rate, the standard of equipment is world class and as we strive for compliance and accreditation our overall standard just keeps improving.

Figures tabled at the regulators forum detailed 28 incidents (3 fatalities) since 2000. You can not imagine how many riders there has been in this period.

NSW work cover has made a concession with the electrical requirements for plant registration, while we have been lobbying for this we must applaud Chris Turner and his team for moving quickly on this issue.

The states have agreed to use a standard national audit system another great step forward towards a standardized system between states.

Our condolences to Ian Markos for his loss and subsequently Ian was unable to attend the conference, we did look forward to the opportunity to have discussions with Ian about SA but I must admit after several meetings in Adelaide things are moving forward nicely and we are about building a good working relationship with Safework SA. (We also thank Leanne McLennan for her coordination of this year's Regulators forum.)

The numerous country show runs are well under way with some mixed reports but the recent widespread rain will no doubt give the rural areas a shot of confidence. There is still news of more new attractions being purchased and there were several rides purchased while at the conference. Congratulations to the Giant Wheel for its rapid move to Hawkesbury Show in the most difficult and trying conditions of rain and mud.

Importantly, the government grant AALARA has received will enable us to create some great programmes and seminars to help deal with numerous issues. Give us your input as to how best we can serve the needs of this industry and put educational and training programs in place.

Phil Durkin

AALARA Board, Chair, Transportables and Showmen Sub Committee