From Bushfire Resilience to Swimming with Sharks: Highlights from the IHEA Conference

The recent IHEA Conference brought together healthcare engineering professionals from across the sector for several days of learning, collaboration and genuine connection. With a strong program of technical presentations, engaging discussions and memorable social events, the conference reinforced the importance of sharing knowledge and building relationships across our professional community.

A standout presentation

A highlight of the conference was the Best Paper/Presentation Award, presented to Mark Hooper for his compelling presentation: “Bushfire Smoke, Energy & Hospitals: The Echuca Experience”(Echuca Regional Health – ERH)

Mark’s presentation explored the real-world challenges hospitals face during bushfire events, particularly the impact of smoke on hospital operations and energy systems. Drawing on the experience at Echuca Regional Health, the presentation provided practical insights into resilience, preparedness and the importance of integrated planning for healthcare facilities operating in increasingly complex environmental conditions.

The audience response reflected both the technical depth and the engaging delivery of the presentation, making it a well-deserved recipient of the conference’s top presentation honour.

Celebrating connection and leadership

Another major highlight was the inaugural Women in Engineering Breakfast, which created an inspiring space for discussion, mentorship and reflection. The generosity and openness of the panel stood out, with speakers sharing personal experiences, career insights and practical advice with honesty and warmth.

The session sparked thoughtful conversation and reinforced the value of creating inclusive opportunities for dialogue within the healthcare engineering community.

Networking with a twist

The conference dinner offered a lively opportunity to reconnect and unwind after a full day of technical sessions. In true IHEA fashion, the evening combined networking with a sense of fun — including sideshow alley games that brought out everyone’s competitive side.

For those seeking a little extra adventure, the optional “Swim with Sharks” experience provided a memorable and uniquely Australian highlight that many delegates will not forget anytime soon.

Looking ahead – Fremantle 2026

Planning is already underway for the next major gathering of the community.

The IHEA Symposium 2026 will be held in Fremantle, Western Australia from Wednesday 25 – Friday 27 November 2026.

Theme:Health Facilities Management – Bringing Everyone Together

The symposium aims to broaden participation across the healthcare ecosystem, inviting

engagement with organisations such as LARU, Department of Health, Environmental Health Directorate and Department of Finance is also planned to help strengthen cross-sector collaboration.

A unique presentation format is being explored to bring different perspectives together on each topic, with short contributions from clinical leaders, engineers, consultants and facilities managers followed by a collaborative panel discussion.

Delegates can also look forward to site tours around Fremantle and Rottnest Island, as well as social events that continue the strong tradition of connection and conversation.

Continuing the momentum

This year’s conference demonstrated once again that the strength of the healthcare engineering profession lies in its willingness to share experiences, discuss challenges openly and support one another.

From thought-provoking presentations to lively networking moments, the event highlighted the passion and expertise that exists across the community.

We look forward to continuing these conversations in Fremantle in November 2026.