Last week has been an extraordinary moment in our journey, marking the culmination of efforts that celebrate our achievements, inspire innovation, and set the course for the future. Together, we commemorated our 40th Anniversary while hosting an impactful Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM). As we look to the future, let us first reflect on the week's highlights and the milestones we’ve collectively reached.
Tuesday: Unlocking the art of exercise
The week began with a dynamic workshop exploring the art of exercise. We examined how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, can revolutionise exercise facilitation. A hybrid workshop combined crisis management exercises with elements of training and coaching, encouraging a new standard in operational preparedness.
Wednesday: Focused Member Sessions and Open Innovation
Members-only sessions provided crucial updates on aviation strategy and the dispersant strategy, underscoring our commitment to safety and technological advancement. Simultaneously, workshops open to all embraced cutting-edge innovation, from the deployment of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to operationalising herders and digitally mobilising OSRL capabilities.
Learning cafes provided an informal yet enriching platform to discuss new markets and industry challenges, including alternative fuels, renewable energy, and plastic pollution. We also shared insights into how we are exploring responding to hazardous noxious substances.
Our 40th Anniversary Celebration
On Wednesday evening during the week of the EGM, we gathered at the Natural History Museum for an important event to commemorate 40 years of excellence. Speeches by Vania De Stefani, Jim O’Leary, and Andre Goffart observed our legacy and a special 40th-anniversary film captured the essence of our journey. It was a fitting tribute to our shared accomplishments, bringing together members, partners, and stakeholders in celebration.
Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM)
On Thursday, we held our formal EGM, updating our members on our business performance. Shareholder representatives were also asked to vote on a number of resolutions, including the appointment of two new Directors to our Board. We are pleased to welcome Mr Angelo Satori Neto and Mr Shamsol Efendy Dismal to the Board.
Our 2025 business plan and budget were also approved, along with four participant membership applications from Harbour Energy, Pan American Energy, Astron Energy, and Hibiscus Petroleum.
Looking Back on a Year of Achievement
As we wrapped up the EGM and shared updates with our members and board, it was an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable milestones achieved in the past 12 months:
- Strategic Evolution: We launched a new vision and mission, introducing a refreshed brand identity that reflects our values and future aspirations.
- Talent Growth: This year, we onboarded over 53 exceptional professionals, including new responders, strengthening our workforce.
- Leadership Development: A new cohort of leaders joined our senior management, driving innovation and fostering collaboration across teams.
- Member Growth: We welcomed 12 new associate members and received shareholder endorsement for four new participant memberships. This growth speaks to the trust in our mission and the value we bring to our stakeholders.
- Governance Expansion: With the addition of five board members and a new chairman, our leadership is well-equipped to guide us through opportunities and challenges.
- Base and Office Relocations: Key relocations, including a new base in South Africa, an office in Aberdeen, and an upcoming major UK base move, underlining our commitment to operational excellence.
- Complex Tender Success: We navigated a challenging tender process for aviation services, gaining support to advance the aerial dispersant platform.
- Scientific Advancement: Significant strides in science and advocacy were achieved while transitioning leadership within our scientific team.
- Global Presence: With representation at numerous conferences across 12 countries, we solidified our influence and expanded our network.
- Celebratory Milestones: We celebrated our shared successes with members, partners, and stakeholders worldwide, culminating in this week’s 40th Anniversary celebration.
As part of our celebration of 40 years of excellence, we created a short film commemorating all that we have achieved over the years and a look ahead to the future.
We would like to thank our members and stakeholders who have been instrumental in our journey. Together, we will continue to shape the next chapter of OSRL.