In 2002 it was suggested that Australia, an acknowledged world leader in marine planning and management, should host an international congress specifically on marine protected areas (MPAs).

An organizing committee, comprising representatives of Parks Victoria, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the Department of the Environment and Heritage, and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority, together with IUCN and its World Commission on Protected Areas, set about to promote, plan and stage the first International Marine Protected Areas Congress (IMPAC1).  Such an international event had never previously been held, so there was considerable uncertainty throughout the planning stages.

Over 40 international experts collaborated within and across working groups formed for each of the Themes and Issues. There are too many experts to mention individually here, but their tasks included the initial assessment of over 630 abstracts, from which they determined the final oral program.  Their efforts are very much appreciated, with the high quality technical program that they developed proving to be a fundamental part of the success of IMPAC1.

The outcome in October 2005 was a highly successful and timely congress in Geelong, along with various associated events.  Many of the world’s leading MPA practitioners, policy makers and scientists attended, providing an excellent opportunity for effective interaction and learning.
IMPAC1 has now been recognised as a world-class professional and memorable event, which we hope will set a precedent for future such congresses.The Organising Committee would particularly like to thank the staff of ASN Events P/L for their tremendous efforts before, during and after the congress; similarly, thanks also to Nanotek Design for compiling and finalizing the proceedings.

Finally, thank you to all the congress delegates, sponsors, committee members and their associated organizations for being a part of the outstanding success of IMPAC1!

We acknowledge the sponsors of the 2005 event.