MARKET POWER: The Real Food Revolution Grows 27 � 29 August, 2005 Lake Hume Resort, Albury Wodonga

Delegates at the forthcoming national Farmers� Markets Conference will discover there is much more to the meaning of �market economy� than they may realise.

Over 25 speakers will examine the agricultural, economic, health and community benefits of Australia�s thriving farmers� market movement that now boasts over 80 regular food markets in all states.

The keynote address � �The Big Picture on Local Food� � will be delivered by American local food systems expert, Mark Winne, who is internationally regarded for his work in establishing the Hartford Food System in Connecticut. His 26-year career has focused on the development of food policy, sustainable local food systems, farmers� markets and allied community food projects. Mark Winne is currently a member of the New Mexico Food and Agriculture Policy Council.

Other international speakers at the Conference organized by the Australian Farmers� Markets Association (AFMA) and hosted by the Hume Murray Food Bowl, include Pam Roy, previously manager of the successful farmers� market in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Ian Thomas, New Zealand�s largest free-range egg producer. He claims his business has grown exponentially, due largely to his regular participation in the weekly Hawkes Bay Farmers� Market.

Case studies will focus on other small family farm business successes, the role of farmers� markets in business incubation, the significance of authenticity in successful market operation, alternative market management models, and the growers� calls for an accreditation process.

�The Market Power conference is a milestone for the grassroots farmers� market movement,� says AFMA Chairperson, Jane Adams. �We have attracted a terrific panel of speakers, and specifically structured the Conference program to attract as many farmers and food producers as possible, because they are the mainstays of this vital community movement.�

The phenomenon of farmers� markets is also expected to attract delegates from sectors including all tiers of government, regional economic development, community health and nutrition, town planning and property development, food processing, packaging and marketing, tourism, as well as agri-economics and social researchers.

The two-day Conference will also include several practical workshops focused on complementary local food systems, endeavours including Community Supported Agriculture projects (CSA), Community Gardens, Food Security Projects, and Heirloom and Rare Breed foods.

�This 2nd national Conference will undoubtedly chart the future course for the vibrant farmers� markets movement in Australia,� claims Jane Adams, who has worked with a volunteer committee to deliver a stimulating and entertaining event.

AFMA is pleased to have the support of a number of sponsors including the Victorian Department of Primary Industries, NSW Department of State and Regional Development, Telstra Countrywide, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Rural Press and Diggers Seeds.

Naturally, local food from the Hume Murray region will feature at all the Conference meals prepared by Lake Hume Resort executive chef, Peter Quinn, complemented by wines from Brown Brothers.

The Conference Program and Registration Details are available on the Australian Farmers� Markets Association website - www.farmersmarkets.org.au or call PH 02 9360 9380

Delegates seeking accommodation should contact Lake Hume Resort PH 02 6026 4444 or Email: conferences@lakehumeresort.com.au

For further information, please contact: Jane Adams Australian Farmers� Markets Association Phone: +61 (0)2 9360 9380 Mobile: +61 (0)417 733 715