37th National Conference at Coffs Harbour

The 37th National Conference which was held in Coffs Harbour provided a great opportunity for AFSA members to get to know people from all states and build business relationships with representatives from the 28 sponsor companies represented at the conference.

The conference provided answers on why things are like they are in our industry, it enabled participants to identify and pursue business opportunities through the papers presented and interaction with the many technical experts who were in attendance. Developing business opportunities through the use of compost was a feature of day 2.

AFSA was grateful for the support of all sponsors, and in particular principal sponsor Incitec Pivot Limited and major sponsors Off Road Trucks and HiFert, whose support enabled the provision of an interesting conference and associated social programme.

Conference Papers

Day 1

• Keynote Address The importance of distinguishing perceptions from reality Dr. Jennifer Marohasy
• The Economy- trends and likely scenarios – Frank Drum, National Australia Bank
• IPL Agronomy – Charlie Walker Incitec Pivot Limited
• The Australian Fertilizer Industry, Current issues and future challenges – Gavin O’Hanlon
• Latest Developments in Fertcare – Martin Shafron, FIFA
• Getting the Right Advice on Fertilizers – Whom do you believe? Dr. Chris Dowling, The Back Paddock Company
• Making Better Fertilizer Decisions – Dr Ken Peverill, Soils Expert and consultant
• HiFert Directions – Nick Moses
• Lowering N inputs while maintaining yield and profitability – Dr Peter Thorburn, CSIRO
• A perspective on the impacts of climate change on the industry – Andrew Helps, Climate Friendly Fertiliser
• Using Insurance to minimise Business Risk – Tony Walker, OAMPS
• Developing a Competitive Edge for Your Business – The Sales by Coach Greg Donlan and Sam Bailey

Day 2

• David Ford, President of FIFA
• Growing your business through the use of compost - Angus Johnston, Waste Management Australia
• Using compost in the field – Darren Fahey, Compost NSW
• The dos and don’ts of compost – Dennis Baker Environmental Soil Solutions
• Making the tough business decisions – Ernie Cooper, Business Coach and Mentor
• Business tips from the NAB – Mitchell Adermann Regional Manager, NAB
• Investing for the future – Greg Thomas, Ord Minett

National Conference Sponsors

AFSA is very appreciative of the generous support of our National Conference sponsors. We encourage you to visit the display areas and make contact with the company representatives.