CED Conference

The next Community Economic Development (CED) Conference will be held from 7-10 May 2012 in Cessnock, in the Hunter Valley. The conference theme is Resilient Regional Communities.

The program

The 2012 CED Conference will focus on community resilience to adapt to global economic shock, climate change and the transition to more sustainable lifestyles. Through numerous interactive sessions and showcases you'll hear how communities and businesses are becoming resilient.

Keynote presenters:

Dr Tim Flannery - scientist, author and Australia's Chief Climate Commissioner will speak on the conference theme
Ric Simes – a Director with Deloitte Access Economics will speak on the resilience of the regional NSW economy, now and into the future
Ellen Fanning - award-winning current affairs journalist, interviewing Dr Tim Flannery and facilitating an interactive session bringing the strands of resilience together
Mark McCrindle - renown as a futurist, demographer, and social commentator speaking on the population shifts and trends occurring in regional NSW, the factors driving these trends and likely future scenarios.

Download the program brochure (PDF) - Please note that some speakers, topics and times have changed since the PDF version of the brochure was completed. For up-to-date detailed information on the program click on each 'Day' on left hand side of the screen.

Who should attend?

Representatives of local councils, economic development organisations, Regional Development Australia committee, progress associations, chambers of commerce, community based associations, tourism organisations, event organisations.

Registration

Registrations are now open. This 3.5 day conference offers value for money with a standard registration fee of $750 and a special rate for members of community organisations (volunteer based) of $225.

Conference venue

The Sebel Kirkton Park is a stylish Conference and accommodation venue which combines the elegance of a bygone era with all the comforts and luxuries of a contemporary lifestyle. The venue is set within 40 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and gently rolling grounds with magnificent views over tranquil Hunter Valley vineyards and the wineries.

Accommodation deal

A limited number of rooms are available at the Sebel for $150 per person per night including breakfast - this is a significantly discounted rate. To secure this deal contact Ian Mackey, Cre8ing Growth on 02 49697555. Tuscany Wine Estate Resort (4 star) is offering a special Conference room only rate of $110 per night Monday to Thursday. Bookings can be made on 02 4998 7288 or by emailing reservations@tuscanywineestate.com.au and quoting reference number TWE-GF2733. For more information on this resort visit www.tuscanywineestate.com.au. Accommodation can also be booked by visiting www.winecountry.com.au/accommodation or by contacting Hunter Valley Wine Country Tourism on 02 4990 0900. A range of accommodation options including caravan parks, pubs and motels are attached with contact details and prices.

Eating out

There is a wide selection of restaurants to choose from when deciding where to dine on Monday and Tuesday nights. See list of dining options which includes indicative prices.

Testimonials

'It's always a great Conference, good speakers, practical sessions and good networking.' Lani Houston, Executive Officer, Regional Development Australia – Riverina

'Always great content - inspiring to meet other people facing similar challenges.' Nadia Eliott-Burgess, Executive Officer, Ballina Chamber of Commerce

'This was the most interesting and well run conference of many that I have attended.' Bob Thomas, Member Management Team, Bundy on Tap, Bundanoon Community Association