Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, AC, Governor-General will be guest speaker at the BCG Expo dinner on 1 July at the Birchip Community Leisure Centre. The BCG theme for 2009 is ‘From Surviving to Thriving’.

Ms Bryce’s visit recognises the vital research and extension activities that BCG has delivered during what has been a particularly difficult time for the farming sector.

BCG Chairman Ian McClelland OAM said “The Governor General’s visit is important not only to BCG but the whole region as it highlights that rural issues and rural communities are at the forefront of the nation’s agenda. Even though Birchip is a small rural community, it's known for having a commitment to profiling the intelligence and ability that is found within it. Showcasing BCG’s research and results to the Governor General will assist in emphasising the noble profession of agriculture and its role in feeding the world.”

BCG is encouraging all farmers and members of the community to attend both the dinner and BCG’s Grains Research Expo the following day, Thursday 2 July.

Dinner tickets are available by contacting BCG on (03) 5492 2787 (RSVP essential). Cost is $40 (BCG farmer members $30) and the dress code is dinner style. The dinner begins at 6.30pm.

Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce, AC, Governor-General