AUSVEG will hold a National Convention, Trade Show and National Awards for Excellence at Conrad Jupiters on the Gold Coast, Queensland from the 27th to 30th of May 2010. The new format Convention will be far more extensive than previous industry conferences.

AUSVEG CEO, Richard Mulcahy, said the convention would focus on attracting growers, in particular, through a broad range of speakers and subjects, covering as many topics of interest to growers as possible. The programme will still include presentations with a research and development (R&D) focus but will feature a range of other topics including marketing, export advice and innovation.

‘AUSVEG has entered into a number of strategic partnerships in recent months, with more to be announced shortly, enabling the peak industry body to go beyond the traditional levy-funded R&D focused conferences to offer this exciting new national event,’ he said.

AUSVEG’s new key strategic partners include Elders, one of Australia’s leading rural services providers, and DuPont, one of Australia’s most well regarded crop protection and seed technology suppliers.

A Trade Show will feature up to 70 companies displaying their goods and services, and will provide attendees with a broad view of the Australian vegetable and potato growing industry as it currently stands.

The Convention will also be family friendly, with activities for children and special events for young growers, and will feature an exciting social program, with breakfasts and information sessions featuring prominent speakers aimed at grouping like-minded attendees together so they can obtain information most relevant to them in a warm and relaxed setting.

Women in horticulture will also be recognised through special events.

The National Awards for Excellence on the evening of Saturday the 29th of May will recognise those who have made a significant contribution to the industry.

The Convention will close on Sunday 30 May with a golf competition to be held at one of the Gold Coast’s stunning courses.

The CEO, Richard Mulcahy, said full details of the program will be announced shortly, together with registration details for attending participants.

He went on to say, ‘We encourage growers, researchers, and key suppliers to begin planning early to avoid missing out on this important event.’

MEDIA CONTACT: Hugh Tobin, Communications Manager, AUSVEG
Phone: (03) 9544 8098, Mobile: 0431 939 920, Email: hugh.tobin@ausveg.com.au