The 2026 Pipeline Operators Group (POG) Seminar, held in Melbourne on 5 March, brought together pipeline operators from across the industry for a full day of practical insight, shared experience and open discussion. With strong attendance from operators and industry professionals, the seminar once again reinforced the value of the POG as a dedicated forum for addressing real operational challenges.
Designed specifically for those responsible for operating and maintaining pipeline infrastructure, the seminar focused on practical issues that operators encounter in their day-to-day roles. The program covered a broad range of integrity and operational topics, reflecting the diverse challenges facing pipeline networks across Australia.
Sessions explored key issues such as water crossing management, the challenges associated with unpiggable pipelines, the ongoing management of AC corrosion, and approaches to identifying and responding to geohazards. Presentations also addressed emissions measurement and encroachment management—two areas of increasing focus for operators as regulatory, environmental and community expectations continue to evolve.
Throughout the day, presentations and panel discussions encouraged thoughtful questioning and the open exchange of lessons learned. Speakers shared operational experiences from the field, while attendees contributed perspectives from their own networks and projects. This created a highly interactive environment where practical knowledge could be tested, discussed and refined through peer engagement.
The discussions highlighted both the complexity of today’s operating environment and the importance of collaboration across pipeline operators. As the industry continues to manage ageing assets, new regulatory requirements and evolving operational risks, opportunities to share practical experience become increasingly valuable.
Beyond the formal program, the seminar also provided valuable networking opportunities. Breaks throughout the day allowed attendees to connect with peers, continue conversations sparked during presentations, and build relationships with other operators facing similar challenges. These informal exchanges are often where some of the most practical insights emerge, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that underpins the POG community.
Overall, the 2026 POG Seminar proved to be both thought-provoking and highly engaging. By combining practical technical content with open discussion and peer connection, the event demonstrated once again the important role the Pipeline Operators Group plays in supporting continuous improvement across the pipeline sector.
For operators seeking practical solutions, shared learning and strong industry connections, the POG Seminar continues to provide a valuable platform for collaboration and professional development.
The success of the 2026 Pipeline Operators Group Seminar was also made possible through the support of our seminar sponsors. Their ongoing engagement with the POG community helps create opportunities for operators to come together, share knowledge and discuss the practical challenges facing the industry.
We thank the following organisations for their support of this year’s seminar:
Their contribution plays an important role in enabling forums like the POG Seminar to continue delivering practical value to pipeline operators across the sector.
A big thank you to all of the presenters who contributed to the 2026 Pipeline Operators Group Seminar. Preparing and delivering these sessions requires a significant investment of time and effort, and the willingness of industry professionals to openly share their experiences and lessons learned is what makes forums like the POG Seminar so valuable.
The insights shared throughout the day sparked thoughtful discussion and provided practical takeaways for operators across the sector. This spirit of knowledge sharing continues to strengthen the pipeline community and supports the ongoing improvement of operational practices.
Several presenters have also made their materials available to APGA members. We appreciate their willingness to extend the value of the seminar beyond the room by allowing others in the industry to benefit from the knowledge shared.
Below are some of the presentations that have been made available to members.
| Article | Author / Organisation |
|---|---|
| Management of Water Crossings | AGIG |
| Regulator Pilot Failure Leading to High High Pressure Alarm | AGIG |
| Multinet Urban Pigging Challenges | AGIG MGN |
| Cost Effective Strain Management | Channel |
| Management of First Gas Transmission Pipeline Waterway Crossings | Firstgas |
| Research Update – Infrastructure Operations | GIRA |
| Implementation of FUSE System for Encroachment Management | Jemena |
| AC Mitigation on the EGP | Jemena |
| Pipeline Geohazards and Earthquakes | Santos |
| Clearing the WAG Pipeline | VIVA |