The past ten years have seen many exciting developments in varied arenas, across a spectrum of activity, ranging from bulk solids handling to nano-particle synthesis. Much of the work is fuelled by the demands and opportunities provided by the extensive Australian mineral industry and a growing and diverse industrial base. But not all of the outcomes are driven by prospects of short to medium term returns. Applied outcomes are complemented and under pinned by significant original fundamental work which continues a long tradition of innovative research from this region.