Social Functions
& Networking Opportunities
Welcome Reception
Kick off AMSA 2026 in style. Join fellow delegates for the first gathering of the conference — a chance to reconnect with old colleagues, put faces to names, and meet the people you'll be sharing the week with.
Enjoy canapés and beverages as the buzz builds for the days ahead. It's the perfect way to ease into the conference, spark new conversations, and set the tone for an unforgettable few days in Canberra.
Koorioke Night
Grab the mic and let loose! Whether you're a shower-singing legend or a reluctant duet partner, join us for a night of karaoke, laughs, and letting your hair down with the AMSA community.
One drink token will be provided to each delegate upon arrival at Koorioke Night.
Student Night
Sponsored by the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies
For the first time, AMSA 2026 Student Night is held in collaboration with the ECOP (Early Career Ocean Professionals) Network, bringing together the next generation of ocean leaders.
It's your chance to meet others at the same career stage, exchange ideas, and become part of a growing professional community passionate about the future of our oceans.
Student Night is for students and Early Career Professionals within 10 years of receiving their most advanced degree.
Student Night: Dress to Impress View the marine theme and prize details
Add a marine-themed twist
We're excited to welcome you to AMSA 2026 Student Night at Molly's Bar in Canberra!
With its cosy 1920s-inspired atmosphere and hidden speakeasy charm, Molly's is the perfect setting for an evening of connection, conversation and fun.
To make the evening even more fun, we would love you to get into the spirit by coming dressed or accessorised with a marine-themed twist.
This doesn't mean you need a full costume, although we would love to see one if you are feeling creative!
- Shark or whale earrings
- An octopus tie
- Fish or ocean-themed socks
- A sea-inspired shirt
- A fun hat, headband or other marine accessory
The more creative, the better!
We will be awarding a prize for the Best Dressed/Accessorised attendee, so have fun and show us your marine-inspired style.
Whether you go all out or just add a small ocean-themed touch, we would love to see your creativity.
What's up for grabs?
Two beautiful ocean-inspired necklaces from Sea Bloom Jewellery, along with some surprisingly fun Canberra-themed merchandise from POP Canberra.
Deep-Sea Dinner and Drinks
AMSA 2026 attendees with an interest in the deep sea are warmly invited to join us for an informal dinner and drinks on Monday 31 August.
This social gathering will bring together deep-sea researchers, students and other enthusiasts to meet, share our love for the deep ocean, exchange ideas and discuss how we might strengthen our deep-sea research community and collaborations into the future. Researchers from all disciplines and career stages are welcome.
Attendance is free; however, food and beverages will be at delegates' own expense.
A venue in central Canberra will be selected based on attendee numbers and confirmed prior to the conference.
If you would like to attend, please add this dinner to your registration and include any dietary requirements so we can confirm your place.
Please feel free to share this invitation with other deep-sea enthusiasts attending AMSA 2026.
Poster Session
Sponsored by the Australian Institute of Marine Science
Grab a bite to eat and explore over 120 posters at the Poster Session!
Located in the restaurant, come chat with presenters about ground-breaking research across all categories and learn about their progress in an action-packed two hours.
E-POSTER
AMSA 2026 is excited to introduce e-Posters this year, creating a more inclusive and engaging poster experience in response to delegate feedback about crowded and noisy sessions.
Preview the full e-Poster showcase online before the conference, then join us on Tuesday evening to meet the presenters and continue the conversation in person.
Gala Dinner
The highlight of the social calendar — and an evening not to be missed. Gather beneath the soaring ceilings of Gandel Hall at the National Gallery of Australia for a night of fine dining, celebration, and entertainment in one of the country's most spectacular settings.
Dress to impress, raise a glass to the achievements of the year, and celebrate the AMSA community in style. Expect great food, great company, and a few surprises along the way — then dance the night away to close the evening in memorable fashion.
Buses depart QT Canberra at 6:00PM for the Gala Dinner venue.
The Casual Dinner
Not attending the Gala Dinner but still keen for a good night out? Join us at The Civic Pub for a relaxed, convivial alternative running at the same time.
For just $35 per person, you'll enjoy a main course, with drinks available for purchase at the bar at your own expense, in a warm and easygoing setting.
It's the perfect option for anyone who'd prefer a smaller, more intimate gathering, with great food, great company, and plenty of opportunities to network, laugh, and make new friends.
Come as you are and enjoy a fun, informal evening with the AMSA community.
Please book your place through the registration portal.
After Party
Keep the celebrations going after the Gala Dinner and Casual Dinner. Join fellow delegates at Lucky's Speakeasy for the official AMSA 2026 After Party and finish the conference social program together.
One drink token will be provided to each delegate upon arrival at the After Party.