The VFF today announced the speaker line-up for the 2018 VFF Annual Conference to be held in Ballarat on 19 and 20 July.
“With only five months until the 2018 Victorian election, we are pleased to announce that all major political parties will present at the conference,” said David Jochinke, Victorian Farmers Federation President.
“Premier Daniel Andrews and Leader of the Opposition Matthew Guy will be speaking at the Conference. As will the Victorian Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford, the Victorian Leader of the National Party Peter Walsh and Leader of The Victorian Greens Samantha Ratnam.
“We will be asking each Member of Parliament to detail how they will deliver for agriculture – both their short term promises and their long term vision.
“VFF members will have the opportunity to question political leaders on the issues of greatest importance to them, which directly impacts their farm businesses and families.
“We are also thrilled to announce that Tim Fischer AC, Chair of the Crop Trust and former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, will address the conference and talk about the seed vault in Norway which stores seed samples from the world’s crops,” said Mr Jochinke.
The Conference provides a key platform prior to the State Election to address issues critical to farmers such as rural rates, local government, Chain of Responsibility, and drought policy.
Candidates for VFF President and Vice-President will speak on day one of the Conference, with election results announced on the Friday.
The Victorian Farmers Federation 2018 Conference will be held in Ballarat from Thursday 19 to Friday 20 July at the Mercure Ballarat Hotel & Convention Centre.
Registration for the Conference is now open. Members, non-members and industry stakeholders are invited to call 1300 882 833 to register. Flexible registration options are available, including a daily registration and an evening option for those wishing to attend the Presidential drinks and dinner.
Media Contacts:
David Jochinke, President, Victorian Farmers Federation, 0427 834 524
Heather Smillie, Stakeholder Policy & Advocacy Officer, 0400 874 589