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Singapore summit sensation

Some big names are set to present at the annual BIC conference in Singapore in November

The technologically advanced hub of Singapore will make for a fitting location for the 2015 Bus Industry Confederation (BIC) annual conference at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel.

The event kicks off on November 8 and is jam-packed with talented and inspirational speakers, each with a unique take on how public transport can be improved and modernised.

BIC executive director Michael Apps says he is especially looking forward to what ex-president and chief executive of the Canadian Urban Transit Association Michael Roschlau has to say.

“Having Michael is a major coup for us,” he says.

“It will be a great chance for all delegates, government and operators alike, to hear how the progressive Canadian Government at national level is able to work with the provinces to deliver the most liveable cities in the world, including the best bus transport services and systems.”

Roschlau oversaw the transformation of Canada’s vast public transport network transport, a place that shares many of the geographical and urban planning challenges as Australian cities.

Apps expects between 400 and 500 delegates to attend, based on current numbers registered and participation at previous annual BIC conferences.

The will be a large contingent of Asian delegates from Malaysia, China, Singapore, Sri-Lanka and beyond.

“The annual BIC conference is a truly international event, not only encompassing Australia but also Asia and well beyond,” Apps says.

“This is an excellent opportunity to see how one of our nearby Asian neighbours go about the business of moving people.”

The conference will be well attended by officials from the Land Transport Authority in Singapore, who have created one of Asia’s most efficient and modern public transport networks by implementing bold policy around private vehicle use.

Keynote speaker on day one is Australia’s high commissioner to Singapore Philip Green, who will also speak about his experiences as high commissioner to South Africa and Kenya.

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive Kate Carnell will also speak on day one about the importance of efficient urban transport networks to the broader economy.

The theme for the 2015 National Conference is ‘moving people – connecting neighbourhoods’.

Speakers from across the Asia Pacific region will be complimented by a range of technical and technological sessions over the three days.

There are four awards up for grabs including Outstanding Contribution to the Industry, Environment and Innovation Award, Achiever Awards and Supplier of the Year.

Last year’s Outstanding Contribution to the Industry winner was Luke Gray of Transit Australia Group, Ryans Bus Service scooped the Environment and Innovation Award, the Achiever Award went to Stan Haoust of Go West Tours and Ian Stewart of Pitcher Partners was named Supplier of the Year.

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