As one of only 57 UNESCO Cities of Gastronomy around the world, Launceston, Tasmania, is well placed to host the 25th Symposium of Australian Gastronomy (SAG 25). The event will be hosted at the University of Tasmania’s Inveresk Campus in Launceston, 5-8 July, 2024. Most other events and proceedings will take place within a 7-minute walk from the Inveresk Campus.
Organisers of the Symposium expect to welcome more than 100 gastronomic enthusiasts from Australia and New Zealand to hear from leading global experts and enjoy some of the world-class cuisine from across northern Tasmania.
Chair of the symposium organising committee and board member of the Tasmanian Agrifood Network (TAN), Andrew Pitt said the national event would be the first of its kind held in northern Tasmania.
“Our hardworking volunteer organising committee is proud to bring this symposium to Launceston,” he said.
“The theme for this year’s event is ‘island’ which perfectly encapsulates the fine produce that can be sourced and enjoyed across our state.
“SAG 25 will be a significant event for our food and beverage industry as it has an established audience who will exchange their knowledge and ideas with local producers.
“Visitors will be provided with multiple opportunities to sample local food and drink, meet with Tasmanian producers and experience Launceston’s restaurants all within a short distance of the UTAS’ new Inveresk campus.”
Pitt was a key member of the successful bid for Launceston to become a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2021.
“We are developing an identity revolving around food and beverage and this symposium will play a vital role in showcasing this identity to a captivated national audience,” he said.
Business Events Tasmania CEO Marnie Craig said this was a key example of how strategically aligned events benefited the Tasmanian economy and reputation beyond visitation.
“As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Launceston is the perfect setting to showcase our world-class food and beverage industries and professionals.”
“Business events such as this are worth NZ$199m to the Tasmanian economy,” she said, adding that 28% of delegates would bring at least one other person with them and 89% intend to return with three years.”
For more information about the symposium visit: https://www.australiangastronomy.net/sag-25-launceston
Photo: Credit Ness Vanderburgh Photography
