Comms Connect NZ brings confidence to industry pros

The Southern Hemisphere’s premier critical communications event, Comms Connect, made a spectacular return to New Zealand this week, bringing hundreds of attendees to Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre from 26–27 June.

The conference component of the event featured 35 expert presenters speaking across two streams, with highlights including a series of talks on the importance of comms for surf life saving; an in-depth workshop on P25 standards and systems; the latest updates from Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) and The Critical Communications Association (TCCA); and a lively panel session discussing the pros, cons and synergies of non-terrestrial and terrestrial networks. Meanwhile, the exhibition floor featured 45 local and international vendors showcasing their wares — from test and measurement instruments, to software, to antennas and more.

The 2024 RFUANZ Gala Dinner and Industry Excellence Awards were held on the evening of 26 June, recognising and acknowledging the many forms of excellence seen in the New Zealand radio industry. MC on the night was local entertainer, singer and comedian Jackie Clarke, who managed to belt out a few songs in between award presentations.

Comms Connect will return on 16–17 October (plus pre-conference workshops on 15 October) with its flagship show at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. For further updates, keep an eye on https://melbourne.comms-connect.com.au/.