17/09/2026
Eight members of Trafiikki museums (Finland) took part this week in the International Association of Transport and Communications Museums (IATM) Conference in Belfast. On the first day, participants heard inspiring and thought-provoking presentations from museums that have transformed their perspectives and found new ways to make an impact within their communities. During the afternoon excursion to the diverse exhibitions of the Ulster Transport Museum, attendees had the opportunity to explore a wide range of vehicles and modes of transport from Northern Ireland’s past.
The second day of the conference began aboard the SS Nomadic at Titanic Belfast, with a welcome address from Northern Ireland’s Minister for Infrastructure. Throughout the day, discussions continued on the ways transport and communications museums can influence society and local communities. Participants exchanged the latest news and experiences with international colleagues and attended the IATM General Assembly. A visit to Titanic Belfast was a truly unique experience, and the day culminated in a dinner overlooking the sea.
Although the official programme concluded with Tuesday evening’s dinner, an optional post-conference tour was offered on Wednesday. This year’s excursion options included a visit to the Downpatrick and County Down Railway, the Ulster Aviation Society, and the historic museum ship HMS Caroline, along with an exploration of Belfast’s rich maritime heritage. These fascinating tours provided a fitting conclusion to the discussions held throughout the conference and offered further opportunities to network with international colleagues in a more relaxed setting.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and to the organisers for such rewarding days in the wonderful surroundings of Belfast. Next year, the IATM Conference will bring our network together once again around engaging and relevant topics in the picturesque setting of Slovenia.
