The Institute of Foresters of Australia will be holding its 2009 National Conference at Caloundra, Queensland, Australia from 6-10 September 2009.
The Institute President Dr Peter Volker said it was timely for foresters to meet, when forestry issues are receiving increasing prominence in national politics particularly in relation to its prominent role in climate change.
The theme of the Conference is ‘Forestry: A climate of change’.
The Institute of Foresters of Australia represents professional foresters engaged in forest management across a diverse range of government, industry and private forest ownership.
Her Excellency Penelope Wensley AO, Governor of Queensland will open the conference.
Keynote speakers include Dr Ian Bevege (Max Jacobs Oration), Kathryn Adams, Penny Baalman, Dr David Brand, Professor John Innes, Nick Roberts and Professor Robert Stone.
Volker said “while the conference sub-themes seek to cover the broad and complex spectrum of challenges facing the forestry profession and forest-based industries in the current ‘climate of change’, the strong focus on climate change at this conference appropriately recognises the widely held belief that it is the main issue facing the sustainability of life on earth.
“In an international political environment that is moving to address previous inaction, the need for rigorous policy development by foresters and forest-based industries is critical to shaping public and government perception and action.” Volker said.
Volker added, “The theme reflects not only the economic value that forests contribute to society but also the increasing recognition of social and environmental values which contribute to our well being as a society.
“Foresters have traditionally managed forests for these values, but we must be more forthright in sending this message to the general community.”
The conference is aimed at enhancing forest management and to foster networking amongst forest professionals.
Further information on the conference can be obtained by visiting the website at
http://www.forestry.org.au/conference/
