AUSVEG is excited to announce that Blair Richardson, a legend of the United States horticulture industry, will deliver the keynote address at the 2015 National Horticulture Convention, Trade Show and Awards for Excellence.

“As President and CEO of the United States Potato Board, Mr Richardson is regarded as one of the most prominent figures in North American horticulture, and will provide an exciting perspective on international horticulture for delegates,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Lauren Winterbottom.

“The announcement of Mr Richardson as keynote speaker will undoubtedly excite Australian growers of all crops, who will have the chance to hear from a pre-eminent international authority in their field, with experience across a range of horticultural commodities.”

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing more than 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers.

Mr Richardson will deliver the keynote address on Friday 26 June, and is set to enthral all delegates, regardless of what they grow, with his vast knowledge and experience across a range of commodities.

“Mr Richardson has deep roots in American horticulture, with his family lineage in farming extending as far back as the mid-1800s, when Texas was still a part of Mexico. This in itself is a novel and foreign concept to most of our local growers, who we anticipate will revel in his address,” said Ms Winterbottom.

Prior to his appointment as President and CEO of the United States Potato Board in August 2013, Mr Richardson was the CEO of WesPak, a successful private farming/packing/sales company in California’s San Joaquin Valley, specialising in premium fresh tree fruit, table grapes and citrus.

In 2005, Mr Richardson was recognized as a leader in the produce industry when he received the Produce Business “40 Under 40” award in both the domestic and international categories.

“Throughout his career, Mr Richardson has shown a keen business sense, backed up with a thorough and varied understanding across a wide variety of fresh produce commodities, which has resulted in a long and successful career, with many more anticipated highlights yet to come,” said Ms Winterbottom.

“We are delighted to confirm him as keynote speaker at the 2015 National Horticulture Convention.”

The 2015 Convention is a must for everyone involved in the horticulture industry, with over 1,400 delegates expected to descend to Jupiters Gold Coast between 25-27 June. Now incorporating both AUSVEG and Apple & Pear Australia Ltd, the 2015 National Horticulture Convention will be the biggest event in the Australian horticulture calendar.

Discounted accommodation is also available for delegates booking through AUSVEG. 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, Manager – Events and Marketing
Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0439 386 049, Email: lauren.winterbottom@ausveg.com.au