Dear YES members and IGC delegates, The Australian Chapter of the YES Network is pleased to invite you to the 2nd World Congress of Early-Career Geoscientists to be held in conjunction with the 34th International Geological Congress (IGC), 4-10 August 2012 in Brisbane, Australia. The aim of the YES Congress is to bring early-career earth scientists together from around the globe to discuss geological challenges that our society faces at the present time. Following on from the success of the 1st World Congress of Early-Career Geoscientists held in Beijing, China, in 2009, YES 2012 will provide an effective way for junior and senior Earth scientists to discuss topical issues, exchange knowledge and establish research collaborations between academia and industry. The geosciences are playing an increasingly important role both in obtaining the best possible knowledge of how our planet works and in determining and managing sustainable activities. Earth Scientists contribute knowledge and solutions to a vast array of global issues, ranging from the provision of safe drinking water, the use of arable land, mineral resources and energy, waste, natural disasters, and climate change. The YES Network believes that the first and main aim of the Earth Sciences is to meet the needs of society. YES works to provide young and early-career earth scientists with information on how to obtain relevant skills and experiences, establish collaborative working relationships and create global networks giving them the tools they will need to address some of society’s greatest challenges. YES Congress 2012 will include scientific sessions, roundtables, workshops, a short-course and field trips (together with the IGC) as well as social events. The congress language is English. Delegates may submit abstracts for either oral or poster presentations. We look forward to welcoming you to Brisbane in 2012. See you in Australia in 2012! Yours sincerely, YES Australia