CALGARY, AB — Championing a new era of teamwork and success for Canada’s beef industry is the focus of a new national conference set to kick-off this summer in Calgary, Alberta. Registration is now open for the inaugural Canadian Beef Industry Conference (CBIC), August 9 – 11 at the Grey Eagle Resort and Casino, featuring top speakers on important issues and hot topics for the industry.

Canadian Beef Industry Conference Registration Open 2016“The Canadian beef industry is among the most dynamic and diverse of its kind in the world,” says beef producer Rob Smith, also Canadian Angus Association Chief Executive Officer and co-chair of the 2016 CBIC. “This poses challenges. But it’s also a major strength. Everyone from industry leaders to individual producers has an important role to play, to strengthen our industry and drive it forward. That’s what this conference is all about.”

CBIC is a joint collaboration of the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), Canada Beef, the Canadian Beef Breeds Council (CBBC) and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA). It will combine semi-annual and annual meetings of several stakeholder groups, along with learning and networking opportunities.

“We encourage everyone from across the various regions and industry sectors to participate — to learn, share ideas and help grow our industry,” says beef producer Virgil Lowe, co-chair of the 2016 CBIC and also an Associate with Dentons Canada LLP.

Opening day keynote speaker is entrepreneur, consultant and former Dragon’s Den star Arlene Dickinson. The agenda will also include keynote speakers on each of the National Beef Strategy’s four pillars: connectivity, productivity, beef demand and competitiveness, along with educational presentations and interactive workshops on new developments, market and brand opportunities and production innovations. Related events include BCRC, Canada Beef, and Young Cattlemen’s Council board meetings, including Cattlemen’s Young Leaders selections and graduation.

Early bird registration rates are available until June 15 ($375 early bird, $450 after) and conference special hotel rates are available until July 25 (or sold out).

Full registration includes opening night (Tuesday) reception; also Wednesday night banquet and entertainment, featuring the band Ain’t No Rodeo. Extra tickets are available for purchase for both of these evening events. Additional options available by separate ticket purchase include a pre-conference Monday tour hosted by Alberta Beef Producers, the Canadian Cattlemen’s Foundation Classic Golf Tournament on Tuesday, and a Thursday evening Heritage Park supper.

Visit www.canadianbeefindustryconference.com for more information and to register. Follow CBIC on Twitter and Facebook for updates.

Source: Latest from Beef Cattle Research Council