Australia’s livestock export industry is preparing to host its first national conference in Townsville in October.

Australian Livestock Exporters’ Council (ALEC) chair Peter Kane said the LIVEXchange 2013 Conference will provide an opportunity for industry experts and stakeholders from across the supply chain to come together to address key issues and challenges for the industry.

“We have world leaders and industry experts committed to present with the likes of John Ackerman, MLA's regional representative in Indonesia, Indonesian lot feeder Dicky Adiwoso from Agro Giri Perkasa and Dr Derek Belton from France who is the Head of OIE International Trade all presenting at the conference and sitting on panels.

“We’re also pleased to announce some light hearted elements, with Sam Kekovich hosting the Charity Auction Gala Dinner on Thursday evening at the conference.”

Justin Slaughter, chairman of LIVEXchange 2013’s host chapter, the Queensland Livestock Exporters’ Association, said he was trilled with the level of support the event was receiving, and urged those interested in attending not to wait until it is too late to book tickets.

“Because places are limited, we need to let people know to book before the end of the month to avoid disappointment," Mr Slaughter siad.

“We are extremely grateful to the industry for its support of this historic inaugural conference.”

LIVEXchange 2013 will be held at Jupiter’s Casino in Townsville from Wednesday 30 October to Friday 1 November 2013.

For more information on the conference and to register visit the conference website www.livexchangeconference2013.com