Opportunities to strengthen the Australian agrifood sector by meeting its workforce skills needs through education and training will be discussed at a forum in Wangaratta on Monday 29 June.

The Agrifood Opportunities Forum at the Wangaratta Regional Study Centre from 9am to 4.30pm is a partnership between Charles Sturt University (CSU) and Agrifood Skills Australia.

Agrifoods is divided into four sectors: food, beverage and pharmaceutical processing; racing and animals; conservation and land management, plants and gardens; and agriculture.

CSU Professor of Food Engineering John Mawson said, "Charles Sturt University has a long and proud history of higher education in the agrifood sector and continues to have strong enrolments from across Australia of students seeking careers in these economically important industries.

"We welcome the opportunity to further engage with industry through this forum and to discuss education and training opportunities for the growth and development of agribusiness."

General Manager of Industry and Business Development at Agrifood Skills Australia, Mr Michael Claessens said, "We are pleased to be working in partnership with Charles Sturt University to host the forum in regional Australia.

"Our consultation with industry has demonstrated that education, particularly higher level knowledge and skills, are key factors for agrifood enterprises to harness and maximise business opportunities."

The Forum's keynote speaker will be Mr Grant Garey, General Manager of Feedlots from Teys Australia, the second largest meat processor and exporter in Australia. Mr Garey will speak about opportunities in the agrifood sector, running a profitable agribusiness, and making the most of Australia's competitive advantages.

Panellists at the Agrifood Opportunities Forum include:

- Mr Mark McConnell - innovator, entrepreneur and investor in agricultural enterprises 

- Ms Gretal Heywood - Young Agribusiness Professionals member

- Professor John Mawson, from the CSU School of Agricultural and Wine Sciences 

- The Hon. Ms Cathy McGowan, MP, federal member for Indi.

Join the conversation about Agrifoods Opportunities Forum through social media by using the hastag #CSUAgrifoods2015

CSU delivers Bachelor of Agriculture, Bachelor of Agricultural Business Management, Bachelor of Horticulture, Bachelor of Wine Business, and Bachelor of Veterinary Technology through the Wangaratta Regional Study Centre.