My colleagues and I from the AuSHS conference committee enthusiastically invite you to participate in our Australasian Conference 'Smart Science for Innovation in Horticultural Enterprises’.

Throughout the world, horticulture is being impacted by climate change and burgeoning global competition. Our societies expect businesses to deliver high quality products, and at the same time have minimal environmental impact. The challenges for the horticultural science - business partnerships are to deliver horticultural supply chains robust enough to withstand these pressures, yet smart enough to continuously evolve and improve.

We also live in a time where, as professions and enterprises, we have to work very hard to compete for quality people and popular attention. Sectors such as finance, tourism, mining and medical technologies are certainly giving us a run for our money. Difficulties of engaging and retaining good staff are very much common themes throughout horticulture. This applies to supply chains and associated service sectors, including the science arenas.

In addressing these challenges, we have several objectives for our Conference Program.

Firstly, three exciting days focus on (i) climate/environment; (ii) new, world-class, smart science; and (iii) innovative science currently practised by horticultural industries. Amongst the speakers’ topics, we hope you will find something that enthuses you, challenges you. We hope it actively involves you in the dynamic, high-tech, sunrise industries that are modern horticulture.

Secondly, we have devoted significant sections of the conference to specific, tailored workshops, facilitated by knowledgeable, passionate people. These workshops are your opportunity to engage with your peers, and really get intimate with issues and questions dear to your heart.

Thirdly, we have hopefully structured the conference program for you to explore the boundaries of your networks, be exposed to new ideas and new skills, and come away from the conference energised and excited.

Our conference venue has recently hosted several horticultural events. For me, the smiles on colleagues’ faces on their return are a great endorsement. In the heart of Surfers Paradise, the hotel facilities are excellent, whilst alternative accommodation is available nearby. Integrate the Conference with visits further afield; take advantage of the diversity of attractions South East Queensland has to offer.

Our Conference is one of the big ones on the horticultural calendar for 2008. I encourage you to register as early as you can. It saves you money, and it helps us plan and deliver the best conference we can. Take the opportunity to participate in an enthusiastic, practically oriented event, where cutting-edge, horticultural science engages with innovative, world class horticultural industries.

See you on the Gold Coast in July, 2008.

Craig Henderson
Conference Chairperson