New simulators open for business

After more than 18 months in the making Australia’s latest hi-tech maritime training facility is officially open for business.
The Centre for Maritime Simulation at the Australian Maritime College threw its doors open yesterday (July 2) in a special ceremony that featured a host of national maritime industry figures and dignitaries. The $7 million centre was officially opened with an unveiling ceremony by Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Anthony Albanese.
During his earlier opening address Mr Albanese praised AMC’s role in maritime education, saying a highly skilled sector was a crucial ingredient for future success.
“This college plays a critical role in producing some of the best seafarers in the world and equipping our national maritime industry for the challenges ahead,” Mr Albanese said.
“It’s also developed a reputation for providing quality services not just to the domestic industry but throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The simulation work that has been conducted at the AMC over the past 24 years is of national significance. I have no doubt that this new state-of-the-art simulator will provide outstanding benefits to students and the maritime industry,” he said, adding he was honoured to be charged with the duty of officially opening the facility.
AMC Principal Professor Malek Pourzanjani termed the day a celebration, marking the completion of a very long process. He applauded the dedication of those involved including Capt. Ian Rodrigues and the Centre for Maritime Simulation team, National Centre for Ports and Shipping director Capt. John Lloyd and a host of industry partners who contributed throughout the process.
Centre for Maritime Simulation manager Capt. Rodrigues told media the new Centre had turned out just as intended – a cutting-edge facility that could deliver unique services and educational options.
“From the outset we knew, to achieve what we wanted to achieve, we would have to push the envelope in terms of the design, in terms of the technology, and that’s what we’ve done,” Capt. Rodrigues said.
A key stakeholder present on the day was Mark Treen, sales and marketing manager for Kongsberg Maritime, the company that developed AMC’s new simulators.
Mr Treen said Kongsberg’s partnership with AMC had resulted in a unique suite of simulation technology. He said throughout the process AMC had been clear on a range of innovative design issues and the collaboration had delivered a product that met those expectations.