Australia on the Map
AOTM 1606-2006 held its last event at the National Library as it joins forces and becomes the newest division of AHS. Presided over by Admiral Ritchie, speeches were made by senior representatives from various departments who have been involved with AOTM, including foreign affairs, education, environment, heritage and defence. One of two copies of a rare Flinders chart from the library, signed by the current governor-general and various ambassadors, was presented to Admiral Ritchie. The other, presented to the Prime Minister, now hangs above the fireplace at Kirribilli House, Sydney.

Admiral Ritchie in his keynote speech spoke of the significance of early exploration and modern hydrography and made various awards, including one in recognition of the AHS. Paul Hornsby accepted this on behalf of the Society. Captain Rod Nairn accepted an award made to the Australian Hydrographic Service and Grey Roughan one made to Fugro. A number of recipients were presented with new AOTM $1 silver coins.

The highlight of the evening was the award of a knighthood to one of AHS’s newest members and chairman elect of the AOTM division, Peter Reynders; for his tireless efforts in promoting early hydrographic exploration as president of AOTM. In accepting his knighthood from the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Peter Reynders was quick to highlight that the award was for all those who had contributed to AOTM, including international organisations such as IFHS.

After accepting his knighthood Peter invited Paul Hornsby, in his capacity as IFHS chairman, to close proceedings on 2006. Paul extended an invitation to all individual and corporate members to maintain their support for hydrography, and in particular invited all sponsors and government departments to give their full support to Hydro 2007.