The ACRNA annual conference was well supported by industry who rely on control rooms to support their business. However, all conferences have those special moments that make the event memorable. This year the association had two moments. The first was the opening keynote address by Professor Arnold Dix. The second was our dinner guest speaker, Dr Jordan Nguyen. These two gentlemen have accomplished magnificent achievements.
Arnold led a team that rescued 41 trapped tunnel workers from a deadly tunnel collapse. Jordan among other achievements, guided a young boy from paralysis to being able to drive a vehicle using only his eyes as control.
Both these presentations were a life changing experience for many of the conference attendees. Although these presentations had no direct connection to a control room, they both demonstrated how a controlled environment with professional leadership and strong ethics can deliver the desired outcome. This is what the ACRNA is about. World best practice.
Professor Arnold Dix
A Professor of Engineering, respected barrister of the High Court of Australia, and seasoned disaster investigator, Arnold’s expertise places him at the heart of some of the world’s most complex emergencies. Most recently was his instrumental role in the 17 day mission of rescuing 41 trapped workers from the Silkyara tunnel collapse in India (2023), which exemplifies his commitment to hands-on solutions. Central to his investigations has often been the critical role of control rooms and operators—those tasked with life-and-death decisions made without perfect knowledge, adequate time, or sufficient resources. Notably, Arnold served as the Coroner’s Special Investigator into Melbourne’s tragic Burnley Tunnel disaster, where multiple lives were lost.
Arnold has written a book titled “The Promise” which not only details his involvement with the Indian tunnel rescue, it also provides a fascinating and sometimes humorous insight into his life.
The Promise is available at Dymocks in paper back. Its also available as an Audio Book, narrated by Arnold.
Doctor Jordan Nguyen
Dr Jordan Nguyen is a leading Australian engineer, inventor and innovator, committed to improving as many lives as possible, and becoming a driving force behind both human and technological evolution as we move into the future. An internationally renowned engineer for humanity, Jordan designs life-changing technologies to transform the lives of people with disabilities. Jordan suffered a serious road accident and the results and experience of this event has guided Jordan in his current activities.
Jordan details his works and successes on his website and YouTube videos. Below are the links to these amazing journeys, including access to his book, and the moving story of Riley and his determination to drive a car.