7 Apr 2006 - Coffs to Host State Coastal Conference

Coffs Harbour will play host to the 15th annual NSW Coastal Conference later this year. 

The conference, which is being arranged in partnership with Coffs Harbour City Council, the Department of Natural Resources and the National Marine Science Centre, has grown to become one of the most successful coastal industry events held in Australia.

The NSW Coastal Conference for 2006 is to be held at Pacific Bay Resort from 7-9 November and will focus on 'Coasting towards a Sustainable Future'.

The forum attracts around 300 delegates from a wide range of areas including elected representatives and staff from local government as well as State and Commonwealth representatives, industry consultants, user groups and community volunteer organisations. 

"This conference is particularly relevant to the Coffs Harbour region as we know we're facing a number of challenges in the coming years over issues relating to coastal and marine sustainability," said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Keith Rhoades.

The 2006 Coastal Conference Committee is committed to the development of a comprehensive program for the event to cover current issues regarding coastal management.

"This year the conference theme 'Coasting towards a Sustainable Future' will cover a broad range of topics including coastal lakes and waterways, water reuse, coastal zone management and marine biodiversity," said Coffs Harbour City Council's General Manager Stephen Sawtell.

"The Conference Committee is currently calling for presenters who are conducting research or developing innovative practice on coastal management to come and share their ideas with this year's conference," he said.

The 2006 NSW Coastal Conference is a two-day forum of plenary sessions, concurrent sessions and afternoon field trips which will help illustrate some of the local coastal and marine management issues under discussion.

A trade display is planned for a key location within the venue to encourage interaction between sponsors, representatives and delegates during the conference.

Further information is available from the Conference Managers on 1300 368 783 or online at www.coastalconference2006.com

Further Information:

Sara Hinds, Media Officer, 6648 4093/0407 227818