The Australian Vegetable Industry Federation (AUSVEG) will officially launch a vision for the future, at an all of industry conference, to be held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from 10-12 May, 2006.

“It will not be any surprise to those in the industry that something has to give. Growers and industry need to become smarter, united and strategic, to remain competitive in an open market place,” Michael Badcock, AUSVEG Chairman said.

“Growers are concerned about their future and the recent tractor rally and response to the country-of-origin labelling debate has demonstrated what can be achieved through unity.

“There’s a future for growers in Australia and this Conference will be about uniting the industry under a single vision or strategy that will outline the changes required for a successful future,” he said.

The ‘New Vision’ will shape the future direction of the vegetable industry and will stipulate what is required for the industry to once again become competitive in today’s global market conditions.

“It’s a very crucial time for growers. The Australian Government’s vegetable Industry Partnerships Project (IPP) will be making its recommendations to the industry later this month and the findings will be incorporated into our ‘New Vision’,” Michael said.

“AUSVEG, industry and the Australian Government have been working towards this ‘Vision’ as the starting point for a sustainable, more profitable Australian Vegetable Industry.

The Conference program has been designed to appeal to all growers with a trade show and tailored vegetable, issue specific work shops, to inform, inspire and educate.

The Conference venue is state of the art and the Conference Trade Show will deliver the latest in technology, products and services, and vegetable research and development.