President's Welcome

It is my great pleasure to announce that the Australian Property Institute (WA Division) will hold its 2009 State Conference on Friday the 7th of August at the Burswood Convention Centre.

Following the success of last year’s event, the conference will once again be held as a one-day forum – with the timely theme of “RECOVER, REFOCUS, REBUILD”.

It’s a stark contrast to our 2008 conference theme of “DIVIDENDS FROM THE BOOM”, which looked at the potential gains to be realised from what was the most significant financial boom seen in decades. With WA now grappling with the effects of the global financial crisis, focus has shifted to recovery.

The Conference Organising Committee have again worked to deliver a thought-provoking and challenging event, with highly-credentialed speakers to lead delegates through presentations addressing global, national and State issues – all of which will focus on the required elements for recovery and rebuilding.

“From Boom to Recession – Charting the Recovery”

Opening Keynote Speaker James McMahon DSC DSM is a former leader of Australia’s elite SAS Regiment, and now the Chief Operating Officer of leading boutique corporate adviser Azure Capital.  His presentation on “Leadership in Adversity” will resonate with delegates across all levels and sectors of the business community.

LandCorp Chief Executive Officer and WA property industry stalwart Ross Holt will discuss LandCorp’s involvement in the State’s north west.

Tourism Western Australia Chief Executive Officer Richard Muirhead will speak on tourism as a significant economic contributor to the WA economy, and its impact on land use planning across the State.

Department of Treasury and Finance Economist Nicky Cusworth will take a look at the economic outlook for Western Australia in an uncertain global climate

The conference will also feature two informative and engaging panel sessions – the first on the very important topic of Valuing Without Transactions, and the second taking the form of a Property Outlook session.

The Institute is very pleased to announce that our special guest to present the luncheon address will be Sam Walsh, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto Iron Ore.  In addition to representing  an industry that has unquestionably been the engine room of the WA economy, Sam also brings a personal passion and commitment to the State through his involvement in the arts and the Committee for Perth.

A closing address from the National President of the Australian Property Institute, David Moore FAPI, will conclude the 2009 State Conference – and a cocktail party will then provide delegates with the opportunity to socialise and network with colleagues.

The Conference will be a key event on the 2009 calendar for WA property professionals, and will provide insightful and invaluable commentary from an outstanding line-up of speakers.

I commend this programme to you and look forward to welcoming you and your colleagues to the Division’s premier event for 2009.

ROSS HUGHES FAPI

President, Western Australian Division

Australian Property Institute