Assistant Health Minister, Senator Fiona Nash will be addressing the National Horticulture Convention at Jupiters Gold Coast on Friday June 26 on the ongoing fight against the scourge of methamphetamine, more commonly known as Ice, which is currently wreaking havoc in communities around the country, especially in rural Australia.


“Given the detrimental impact Ice abuse is having on rural communities around Australia, we are most appreciative that the Assistant Minister for Health will take the time to speak to delegates about the problems posed by this terrible drug, as well as strategies to address the threat it continues to pose,” said AUSVEG CEO, Mr Richard Mulcahy.

“Ice has proven particularly devastating among young people in these communities, and it is vital that the industry gets on the front foot to tackle Ice use before further harm is done to Australia’s rural heartland.” 
AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers. 
“Senator Nash has a longstanding and distinguished career in politics and has strong ties to the rural community, serving as Deputy Leader of the Nationals in the Senate and on the Senate Committee for Rural Affairs and Transport, as well as owning farming properties herself,” said Mr Mulcahy. 
“She is also the Minster responsible for food and sits on the Federal Government’s Ministerial Council on Country of Origin Labelling reform.” 

“Senator Nash is well placed to address delegates on the issues posed by Ice abuse and is sure to impart some sobering but much needed information on this issue.”

Senator Nash will join a host of illustrious speakers to address delegates at the 2015 Convention, including President and CEO of the US Potato Board, Blair Richardson, and Horticulture Innovation Australia CEO, John Lloyd.

“The National Horticulture Convention, Trade Show and Awards for Excellence, now incorporating both AUSVEG and Apple & Pear Australia Ltd, is the biggest event in Australian horticulture and boasts a spectacular line up of speakers and informative and entertaining events for delegates,” said Mr Mulcahy.

“More than 1,400 delegates are expected to attend the Convention to take full advantage of the business and networking opportunities available, and to enjoy the world-class program on offer at Jupiters Gold Coast.”  

To register, download the delegate brochure or register online. For more information please contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277 or convention@ausveg.com.au, or visit www.ausveg.com.au/convention.

ENDS


MEDIA CONTACT: Lauren Winterbottom, AUSVEG Manager – Events & Marketing
Phone: (03) 9882 0277 Mobile: 0439 386 049 E-mail: lauren.winterbottom@ausveg.com.au