It is clear to those who have been involved in the negotiation of these arrangements that synergies will arise from the integration. Membership of AIE will enable former AIP members to continue to pursue their professional development and interests in a similar manner. While the AIE includes members from all sectors of energy-related industries, such as coal, gas, electricity, renewables etc, petroleum has been, and will continue to be, a major area of interest to AIE. Previously, in the interests of cooperating rather than competing with AIP, we have not actively organised petroleum specific activities.

However, we are confident that programs and activities can now be offered that will continue to interest former AIP members. The development of these will seek to match the aspirations of our newly expanded Groups which are located in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Newcastle and Gippsland. Former AIP members from other areas will be attached to the most appropriate AIE Group.

As an interim measure, the AIE Council will co-opt three representatives of former AIP members to assist in a smooth transition. The Council is committed to making the integration a success, to revitalise the AIE as well as providing a professional institute for the former AIP members. To further ensure the success of the new integrated AIE, we welcome any suggestions or comment from former members of AIP or AIE. Suggestions can be sent from this web page to aie@aie.org.au.

We also urge you to become involved in the activities of your local Group. The Group Committees of AIE and the State Committees of AIP will be integrated to ensure a smooth transition and a balanced meeting program will be offered to interest the members of AIE and formerly AIP.

We again welcome the former members of the AIP to the AIE and I trust that you will derive great benefit from your membership.