We had a great time down in Sydney at the BizTalk Server 2006 R2 Launch! Veteran MS Technical Fellow Don Ferguson gave a thought-provoking keynote speech about future technology trends (it’s all about SOA & BPM!) Next was BizTalk GM Oliver Sharp’s guide through the ever-expanding functionality of BizTalk over its five releases, followed by stirring presentations from major sponsors Intel and HP. After lunch, I focused on the Public Sector stream (one of three options) which kicked off with an imaginative view into the future of Health care and the Health Connect Engine (that impressive video seemed more like science fiction until presenter Werner Van Huffel explained that it is all based on existing technology!) Next was a look at Shared Services between Gov’t Agencies, with Christine Axton demonstrating the highlights of the enormous UK Government Gateway project (and its success thanks to its use of BizTalk as the lynchpin technology). The day wrapped up with an animated presentation by Lawrence Crumpton about the Microsoft Customer Care Framework (CCF), its integration with BizTalk Server and a stream of high-profile client success stories.

Mick spent much of the day at his "RFID in Action" stand demonstrating the really cool technology, using it to tag & scan attendees and even handing out some great prizes (including an xBox 360!)  With all three of the BizTalkin’ Boys in one place, we didn’t miss the chance for a photo opp: