Program released for first Invest Great Southern Conference aiming to help region look forward

Albany businesses will be treated to a forward-looking two-day program of ideas and partnerships in the inaugural Invest Great Southern Conference next month.

Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry is marketing the inaugural program, which features 27 speakers, as a pivotal moment for the Great Southern that offers a unique convergence of ideas on economic development and investment opportunities.

ACCI chief executive Kristen Pyrz-Brown said the region’s “rich tapestry” of industries formed a “vibrant” economy led by agriculture and tourism.

“The Great Southern’s economic diversity extends beyond traditional sectors,” she said.

“It is emerging as a leader in renewable energy, space exploration and technology, research, and innovation.

“We want to draw attention to the possibilities and invite investment and a gathering of ideas from both local business leaders and WA’s major players.”

The ACCI has partnered with the City of Albany, the Great Southern Development Commission and Regional Development Australia to coordinate the conference, which will take place at the Albany Entertainment Centre on May 8-9.

The inaugural program includes a keynote address by Emergent Futures chief executive Paul Higgins on the first day as well as discussions on agriculture, housing, renewable energy, and education.

We want to draw attention to the possibilities and invite investment and a gathering of ideas from both local business leaders and WA’s major players.

The second day of the program includes discussions of tourism, sustainability, and mining.

Ms Pyrz-Brown said the conference had something for everyone in business, from those looking to invest to small, medium and large business owners as well as residents keen to shape the region’s future.

The program’s key themes are diverse but complementary, sharing a common thread “to thrive through diversification, innovation and collaboration,” Ms Pyrz-Brown said.

She said there was still a lot of untapped potential within the region waiting for people to capitalise on opportunities, especially within emerging renewable energy industries and tourism.

“There is a growing emphasis on sustainability and innovation, so that will most likely be a recurring theme,” she said.

The event will culminate with a bus tour of some of the region’s top tourist attractions.

The conference was planned for November last year but was postponed after several key speakers withdrew due to scheduling conflicts.

Visit the ACCI website to view the full program and to purchase tickets.