The APSA committee has put together a challenging and exciting scientific programme that will focus on:

* Strategies and Coping Mechanisms for the Modern Scientist (A.C. Dunkin Memorial Lecture) * Beta-agonists - From mechanism to commercial application * Gene Markers -How they can be used in selection? * Air Quality-What effects does it have on animal health? * Gilt and first litter management to achieve lifetime performance * Sow Group housing * Mycotoxins-What are they and how do they impact on animals? * Opportunities to manipulate pork to improve it's health characteristics * Health Strategies for the modern Pig Industry

APSA (Inc.) has invited a number of internationally and nationally recognised speakers in these fields who will address the conference in the form of invited reviews and symposia. As in past years, contributed (refereed) one-page papers and poster presentations will form a major and very important part of the conference. The deadline for submission of one-page papers will be the 15th May 2005.

In addition, the organising committee will continue the theme of the 2003 Producer Focused Conference sessions, which are planned for one day of the conference. There will also be study tours of the local pork industry held at the end of the Christchurch Conference.

Source: Australasian Pig Science Association - 21st December 2004