Plant biosecurity experts in town

Friday, 21 September 2007

More than 300 plant biosecurity experts from across the world will gather in Adelaide next week to discuss the management of diseases in plants.

The 16th Biennial Australasian Plant Pathology, to be held from 24-27 September at the Adelaide Convention Centre, will focus on the detection of pathogen incursions, management of risk, and the eradication of disease in horticultural and agricultural commodities.

Conference Chair, Dr Amanda Able from the University of Adelaide, said the conference would provide the opportunity for some of the world's best minds to discuss the implications of plant disease and maintenance of biosecurity.

"We've seen recently with the equine flu how important it is to know how to manage disease. As plant pathologists, we have an important role in protecting Australia's agriculture.

"Plenary speakers from the USA, Israel and NZ will provide insight into how they've effectively managed plant disease in their countries. The industry in Australia can hopefully learn from their experiences," Dr Able said.

The conference will be officially opened by the Minister for Science and Information Economy, the Hon. Paul Caica MP on Tuesday 25 September.

The conference is sponsored by Horticulture Australia, the Cooperative Research Centre for National Plant Biosecurity, the Grains Research and Development Corporation, the Grape and Wine Research and Development Corporation, BASF and Nufarm and has been jointly organised by the University of Adelaide and the South Australian Research and Development Institute.

For a full list of speakers and more information, visit the website http://www.plevin.com.au/apps2007/

Contact Details