IMOS marks 20 years of ocean observing at the 2026 Annual Meeting

The IMOS community recently came together in nipaluna, Hobart to celebrate two decades of nationally coordinated ocean observing at the 20th Anniversary Annual Meeting. The milestone event highlighted the critical role of IMOS, enabled by National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy, in delivering long-term observations that underpin marine science, climate research, and decision-making.

The three-day program brought together researchers, technicians, partners and stakeholders for a series of engaging and insightful presentations spanning IMOS’s past, present and future. Opening with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Dougie and remarks from IMOS Chair, John Gunn, set the tone for reflection and forward thinking. Keynotes from Susan Wijffels and Michelle Heupel explored the evolution and impact of ocean observing across Australia and globally.

A strong focus on Indigenous engagement featured throughout the program, including a keynote from Paul Sinclair, Director of Mirri Mirri, and updates on IMOS Indigenous partnerships. Presentations from Tonya Grant and Larissa Hale highlighted the importance of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and supporting Indigenous-led initiatives in ocean science.

The meeting also showcased IMOS’s data legacy and future through sessions on the Australian Ocean Data Network, along with retrospectives across key Facilities and programs. These included ocean colour, Argo floats, ocean carbon chemistry, satellite altimetry, plankton observations, and long-term time series, demonstrating the breadth and continuity of IMOS observations over 20 years.

Funding long-term monitoring is always difficult and it is a testament to the IMOS community that we have reached 20 years. The success of IMOS is grounded in the contributions of dedicated partners, researchers and technicians producing high quality data and outputs. IMOS is an amazing asset to Australia and I look forward to seeing what we will celebrate after 30 years.

Michelle Heupel, IMOS Executive Director

Day three featured international and industry perspectives, including updates on the Global Ocean Observing System and CoastRI, alongside reflections on national facilities such as the National Reference Stations, Ocean Gliders, and the Australian National Mooring Network. Together, these sessions reinforced IMOS’s role within a broader global observing system.

A dedicated Technician Summit and recognition session acknowledged the vital contributions of technical staff, whose expertise underpins the success and reliability of IMOS operations. Their work was celebrated as essential to sustaining high-quality, long-term ocean observations. The Technical Summit provided an opportunity for networking, knowledge exchange and the inception of an IMOS Community of Practice.

A special reception at Government House ahead of the conference dinner added to the significance of the occasion, providing an opportunity for the community to connect and celebrate the milestone together.

The meeting concluded with reflections, recognition awards, and a forward-looking discussion on IMOS’s future directions. As IMOS enters its third decade, the Annual Meeting reaffirmed the strength of its community and its ongoing commitment to delivering the observations needed to understand and manage Australia’s oceans.

IMOS extends its thanks to all speakers, staff and attendees who contributed to making the 20th anniversary meeting such a memorable and successful event.

View the full agenda here

Photos by Dearna Bond