Social Functions
& Networking Opportunities
WELCOME RECEPTION
Sunday 30 August 2026 · 5:30PM - 7:30PM · Eureka Room (Exhibition), QT CanberraKick 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.
STUDENT NIGHT
Monday 31 August 2026 · 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM · Molly's BarFor 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.
Deep-Sea Dinner and Drinks
Monday 31 August, from 6PM, Blu Ginger Indian Restaurant, 2/5-21 Genge St, Canberra ACT 2600AMSA 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.
KARAOKE
Sunday 30 August 2026 · 7:30PM - 11:00PM · Lucky's Speakeasy, QT CanberraGrab 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.
GALA DINNER
Thursday 3 September 2026 · 6:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Gandel Hall, National Gallery of AustraliaThe 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.
THE CASUAL DINNER
Thursday 3 September 2026 · 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM · The Civic PubNot 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.
Reservations are essential — please book your spot through the registration portal.
Poster Session
Tuesday 1 September 2026 - from 6:15PM - QT Canberra 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.