All eyes were on Tasmania today when the Minister for Tourism, Scott Bacon, unveiled the location of the 2012 AUSVEG National Convention, Trade Show and Awards for Excellence.

Minister Bacon announced that the annual event – hailed as the largest of its kind in the Australian horticulture calendar – will take place next year from May 10 – 12 at Wrest Point Hotel Casino in the city of Hobart, generating approximately $1 million in expenditure for Tasmania.

AUSVEG National Marketing Manager Simon Coburn joined the Minister as he made the official statement during a press conference at Wrest Point Hotel Casino this morning.

AUSVEG is the national peak industry body representing around 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

“AUSVEG is very excited to be bringing the 2012 National Convention to Hobart. It is undeniably one of the most beautiful cities in Australia and Wrest Point Hotel Casino, set against the stunning backdrop of the River Derwent, is the perfect venue to host the event,” said Mr Coburn.

“The Convention will run for three days, but we are encouraging our delegates to bring their families, make a holiday of it and enjoy all Tasmania has to offer.”

The third annual AUSVEG National Convention, Trade Show and National Awards for Excellence is set to build on the success of the 2011 event held in Brisbane, which attracted close to 1,000 delegates.

Mr Coburn said the 2012 National Convention promised to bring together vegetable and potato growers from across Australia, as well as members from all areas of the industry supply chain, for an invaluable experience.

“Plans are well and truly afoot for next year’s Convention, which will feature a huge trade show, an impressive programme of high profile speakers from all areas of the industry and a host of events to inform and entertain delegates,” said Mr Coburn.

“The event will once again culminate with the AUSVEG National Awards for Excellence and Gala Dinner, which will honour a selection of the industry’s most outstanding members.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Simon Coburn – National Marketing Manager Phone: (03) 9822 0388, Mobile: 0404 845 580, Email: simon.coburn@ausveg.com.au
Media Release