Derby KEF a Huge Success

Written on the 8 November 2016 by Melva Stone

With a key message of "steering toward a rich and sustainable future", this year's Forum was a very encouraging and exciting forum for attendees, both local and from interstate.

The Derby Chamber of Commerce hosted the event, with support from the Broome Chamber of Commerce.

Some 150 participants heard from speakers with a wealth of knowledge on a variety of subjects. 

The focus, however, was on agriculture, the cattle industry and aquaculture all of which have a bright future in our region. MC Gerry Gannon, a former radio announcer and journalist brought years of experience to the stage.

Keynote speaker, David Williams spoke on opportunities in Australian Agriculture and he spoke from personal experience he bought, amongst others, the bankrupt salmon producer Tassal for $42m.  He then refinanced the company and listed it on the ASX, turning the business around and merging it with its closest competitor. Tassal is now capitalised at nearly $500 million.

Included in the program was a Minerals & Energy panel discussion, presentations focusing on the tourism industry and a Kimberley State Election debate, with Liberal candidate Warren Greatorex and National candidate Rob Houston presenting their plans for the Kimberley.

The Forum Dinner and Charity Auction for the RFDS was held at the Spinifex Hotel and hosted by the Kimberley Pilbara Cattleman's Association. 

MC for the night was Mark Bin Baker.  Lively bidding from an audience of 120 saw the auction raised in excess of $6,000 for the RFDS.

The key message from the Forum was the need for collaboration in the Kimberley, from across all industries.

Participants left the Forum in high spirits, many commenting that they are looking forward to the 2017 Forum, which will be hosted by the Kununurra Chamber of Commerce.