RGA President Les Gordon said the theme for this year’s event, which will be held at the Coleambally Bowling Club on Thursday, August 7 2008, was “Beyond the Drought – Feeding the World Again”.

“Last year our conference addressed the issue of the looming global food shortage and what it might mean for the Australian Rice Industry,” he said.

“This year we’re looking forward to examine the road back to full production. Our focus is firmly on the future and we have an excellent line- up of speakers that reflect both the challenges and opportunities we will face.”

The conference’s keynote speaker would be Australian Farm Institute executive director Mick Keogh, Mr Gordon said.

“Mick will be discussing the challenge of responding to global food demand in a climate and carbon-constrained environment. His presentation isn’t just of the interest to the rice industry, but all agri-food industries in Australia, and Mick alone is expected to attract many of the 200 to 250 delegates anticipated,” he said.

Joining Mr Keogh will be Rice Research Australia manager Russell Ford, NSW Department of Primary Industries rice breeder Dr Peter Snell, and Rabobank rural senior manager Bernie Connolly.

“Russell and Peter’s presentation ‘From Cane to Grain – Rice Development in the North’ will focus on the rice research and production trials in Northern Australia over the last 12 months,” said Mr Gordon.

“Bernie’s presentation ‘The Global Financial Crisis’ will outline the causes and impacts of the current economic climate and potential implications for borrowers here and abroad. Other topics to be examined at the conference include the proposed Emissions Trading Scheme, and water efficiency improvements.”

Mr Gordon said due to the continuing drought and the pressure the industry and sponsors were under, this year instead of a dala dinner there would be refreshments immediately after the conference.

The confernence will go from 10am to 5.30pm. Drinks will follow from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. The conference is free to financial RGA members and their partners. Non-members and non-financial members are welcome to attend at a cost of $55 (Inc GST).

Registrations for the conference close on Thursday, July 31. For more information visit www.rga.org.au or phone (02) 6953 0433.