The AUSVEG National Convention, Trade Show and Awards for Excellence are set to be the biggest event ever held by AUSVEG and will generate a significant boost for the Queensland economy with almost 80 per cent of delegates travelling to the Convention from outside of Queensland.

With less than a week to go until the Convention, AUSVEG Chair John Brent said he was looking forward to meeting many of the growers set to attend the event.

“Never before have I seen such enthusiasm for a National vegetable industry event and the AUSVEG National Convention is breaking records every day,” said Mr Brent.

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

Over 500 delegates will attend the AUSVEG National Convention and almost 800 accommodation nights have already been booked with the numbers growing every day.

Supply chain businesses have been competing for space in the Trade Show with strong demand leaving companies fighting for space.

“The main exhibition space has been booked out with over 65 trade booths already sold,” said Mr Brent.

“Exhibitors are set to benefit immensely. Over 400 delegates will attend each day of the Trade Show, which will bring many lucrative networking opportunities,” he said.

“The benefits to the local economy will be significant, not only thanks to this event, but with many growers extending their stay to include a well-deserved holiday,” he said.

Social events are also brimming with participation with around 400 guests attending the National Awards for Excellence, which will celebrate the outstanding achievements of several members of the Australian vegetable industry.

Almost 300 delegates will attend each of the convention breakfasts, both featuring several prominent speakers.

“This event will bring millions of dollars into the economy in the space of a few days as growers from all around Australia take a break from the farm with their families.”

Senator Nick Xenophon will speak at a breakfast on Friday 28 May.

Other politicians attending the Convention and Awards include Senator Rachel Siewert, Greens Senator for Western Australia; Senator Claire Moore, Labor Senator for Queensland; Senator Mark Furner, Labor Senator for Queensland; The Hon Peter Slipper, Liberal Party of Australia; John-Paul Langbroek, Leader of the Opposition, Liberal National Party Queensland.

ENDS

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