Australian Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. John Anderson, will open Wealth from Water, which is aimed at encouraging greater awareness of water use in the wider community, while showcasing best practice among major water users.

Speakers will include Richard Pratt from the Pratt Water Group, Woolworths’ Head of Produce Michael Batycki and media personality Maxine McKew. Ms McKew will lead a discussion that will explore “what happens if you turn off the water” (see the Conference Program).

Federal Member for Riverina, Kay Hull, will also take part in the conference.

“Wagga Wagga has traditionally been a city that leads the way on important issues, and it is fitting the subject of the future of water should be launched from here,” said Chamber of Commerce president Glenn Elliot.

“Charles Sturt University offers a talent pool, which gives Wagga Wagga a head start in being at the vanguard of issues such as water and its future in Australia.”

Co-organiser of Wealth from Water, Graeme Batten, Professor of Irrigation in the School of Agriculture at CSU, will edit the conference proceedings with the aim of determining how to pursue the issues raised.

“Delegates will talk about the need for the private sector to play a key role, as well as explore infrastructure financing, through the use of water bonds – this is an innovative issue promoted by Richard Pratt,” Professor Batten said.

The conference, which is a joint project between Charles Sturt University and the Wagga Wagga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will be held on Friday 14 March at Joyes Hall on CSU's Wagga Wagga Campus at 9.00am. To register, contact Genelle Mullins on 0438 250 092.