Invitation to Darwin

On behalf of Parks and Leisure Australia, we invite you to attend the 2009 PLA National Conference in Darwin on 13 – 16 September

Following on from the successful conference last year in Melbourne, PLA will be holding its National Conference in a very appealing part of the country – Darwin. Be sure to register early to avoid disappointment. The conference is becoming more and more attractive and this year it will be no exception.

The conference will be based at the Darwin Holiday Inn on the Esplanade in the CBD, close to just about everything. It promises to offer everyone from the policy maker through to the senior manager, practitioner and student, a host of challenges and innovative ideas to discuss and workshop during the conference and to utilize back in the workplace. Make sure you don't miss this year's number one professional development opportunity for parks and leisure professionals.

The conference theme, “Making Connections in the Top End ” will focus on the results of sharing ideas, working together, and learning about successful projects collated from peoples' ideas and work. It will be a chance to see how Darwin and the Northern Territory include all their cultures and develop and maintain their parks, spaces and environment.

Darwin is unique. It has a history like no other Australian City – it was bombed 64 times during World War 2, has been blown to the ground by Cyclone Tracy and has a heritage that boasts a distinctive blend of ancient Aboriginal Custom, European pioneering legacy and Asian influence. It has a tropical climate, tremendous scenery and magnificent markets which we will visit. It is now a growing city with lots of development just like many other Australian cities.

The Top End is renown for its tropical weather, rich indigenous culture, national parks and laid back lifestyle. The outdoor lifestyle is complemented by brilliant sunsets, fantastic fishing and a colourful calendar of outdoor events. The parks are exceptional, both urban and National Parks. This tropical landscape will open your eyes to a new experience and leave you with life long memories and keen to return. See as much as you can while you are in Darwin. Why not stay longer! You will not be disappointed.

PLA is working with Tourism operators to provide you with travel options to see the sights around the Top End before and after the conference.

This Conference will be value for money!

Registration fees have again been kept low this year to allow for higher accommodation costs. –The program will still be progressive and forward thinking. Look out for the bargain flights to Darwin and book early to keep your own costs down.

We are sure that you will enjoy exploring and learning about Darwin. We look forward to seeing you in September.

Steve Mason PLA National President

John Senior PLA Conference Convenor