Conference Report

Distinguished British computer scientist Bob Hopgood, recently awarded an OBE for his outstanding contributions to the development of the World Wide Web, will give the first keynote address at the Sixth World Wide Web Conference (AusWeb2K) in Cairns this afternoon.

Professor Hopgood is a member of the International World Wide Web Conference Committee whose members help plan and direct the global development of the Web. His address exploring the future of the Web will follow the conference’s official opening by the Vice-Chancellor of Southern Cross University, Professor John Rickard.

SCU is the organiser of a conference that is being attended by more than 150 delegates from the technology, business, academic and legal sectors. Half of Australia’s universities are represented and there are six delegates from overseas universities.

"We are delighted that this high level conference has received such strong support from a broad cross-section of participants," Professor Rickard said.

"No doubt it reflects the fact that Australia has the world’s sixth largest level of Internet usage, with more than 7 million people of all ages going on-line on a regular basis. With a penetration of more than 35% of the population, Australian web usage is only surpassed by the USA and Scandinavia," the Vice-Chancellor said. "In part this has resulted from the ‘back room’ work done at this national conference and its annual international counterpart which Bob Hopgood represents."

Professor Hopgood predicts that rapid advances in programming language and portable technology will result in dramatic lifestyle changes for many people in the world. Those in technology rich countries would experience the Web being used by a range of devices, including cell phones, TVs, PDAs, fridges and microwave ovens, while those in developing countries would be provided with enhanced access to educational opportunities through the broader footprints of communications satellites.