The event will seem more than 100 delegates from Australia and New Zealand gather in Tasmania’s second largest city. The majority of the event is set to be held at the University of Tasmania’s campus in Launceston.
According to the conference website, the symposium aims ‘to stimulate conversation, research and collaboration on the history, culture, production, education and science of food and drink’.
“Our hardworking volunteer organising committee is proud to bring this symposium to Launceston,” said Andrew Pitt, chair of the event’s organising committing.
“The theme for this year’s event is ‘island’ which perfectly encapsulates the fine produce that can be sourced and enjoyed across our state.”
Pitt is also a board member of the Tasmanian Agrifood Network and was instrumental in the successful bid for Launceston to become a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Achieving the recognition in 2021, the city is one of only 57 around the world with this distinction.
“SAG 25 will be a significant event for our food and beverage industry as it has an established audience who will exchange their knowledge and ideas with local producers,” said Pitt.
“Visitors will be provided with multiple opportunities to sample local food and drink, meet with Tasmanian producers and experience Launceston’s restaurants all within a short distance of the UTAS’ new Inveresk campus.
“We are developing an identity revolving around food and beverage and this symposium will play a vital role in showcasing this identity to a captivated national audience.”
CEO of Business Events Tasmania, Marnie Craig, highlighted the value that events like this one bring to the state.
“Business events such as this are worth $199 million to the Tasmanian economy,” she said.
“These events attract world renowned experts to Tasmania whilst providing opportunities to share our culture, ideas and create opportunities for future investment.
“Twenty eight per cent of delegates bring at least one other person with them, 20 per cent explore regional Tasmania and 89 per cent intend to return with three years.”
