Committee Members
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Alex Leith
Auspatious
Alex is an open geospatial technologist specializing in software development, cloud infrastructure and program governance with an emphasis on Earth observation data. As Executive Director at Auspatious, Alex focuses on making data more accessible and works to support informed decision-making and promote sustainable development.
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Dr. Arko Lucier
The University of Tasmania
Arko is a Professor of Remote Sensing and Head of the School of Geography, Planning and Spatial Sciences at the University of Tasmania. His work focuses on advanced Earth observation techniques, particularly using drones. (UAVs), LIDAR and multispectral and hyperspectral imagery for environmental monitoring and spatial analysis.
He has extensive experience in applying remote sensing to ecosystems such as Antarctic environments, forests, and climate-impacted landscapes, and has contributed to both academic research and industry collaborations, including work with the Australian Antarctic Division.
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AbHi Ghim
Ocean Infinity
AbHi, originally from Nepal, built a strong foundation in geological sciences before advancing his expertise through a Master’s program at the University of Tasmania, where he specialised in geospatial science, remote sensing, and Earth observation.
He currently works with Ocean Infinity (Australia), supporting projects across the APAC region, particularly in Australia and New Zealand. Abhi has developed practical experience since his student years, strengthening his capabilities in geospatial analysis, spatial data interpretation, and technical reporting.
With a commitment to continuous learning and interdisciplinary collaboration, he is dedicated to advancing his expertise and is passionate about leveraging remote sensing and Earth observation technologies to address real-world environmental, water resource, and defence-related challenges.
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Shanna Sheldrick
Premier Events
Shanna is a Professional Conference Organiser (PCO) and had the pleasure of helping manage the Advancing Earth Observation Forum in 2024.
She is thrilled to be working alongside the 2026 committee for this year’s Forum. Shanna enjoy working behind the scenes with committees, speakers, and sponsors to help bring events together and create a smooth, positive experience for everyone involved.
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Stuart Phinn
Earth Observation Australia / The University of Queensland
Stuart is a scientist, educator, and leader who builds and applies methods to measure and understand how our environments are changing at multiple scales (www.eorc.org.au). He works across collaborative, multi-disciplinary teams and organisations to deliver quality science that draws upon field-work, satellite-image data, and modelling, through: founding directorships of Australia national earth observation coordination body (www.eoa.org.au) and collaborative research infrastructure (www.tern.org.au) and a world-leading research to operational program that supports government environmental monitoring (www.jrsrp.org.au); and program leadership of industry-driven research. Stuart’s work provides solutions to support sustainable development and resource use for all levels of government, various industries, and communities.
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Terri Freemantle
NGIS
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Roxane Bandini-Maeder
Geoneon
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Sam Holt
Aerometrex
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Steph Johnson
CSIRO
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Michael Sumner
Australian Antarctic Division
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Gavin Kennedy
Geofoundry
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Edward King
CSIRO
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Jenna Guffogg
Geoscience Australia
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Rory Donnelly
NGIS

