The annual PestBiz Convention hosted by the South African Pest Control Association (SAPCA) has become the benchmark event for the South African pest control industry attracting both national and international interest.

Built on the success of previous years this year’s convention will be held in Johannesburg at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre on 17 and 18 August. Since its inception in 2004 the convention has continuously grown keeping up with the changing pest control environment. SAPCA has adopted the practise of tying a theme to each convention; this year’s theme – Preserving a healthy tomorrow – is based on the pest control industry becoming increasingly more aware of responsible practices in order to protect the environment and people. This theme is especially relevant given the global effect and the influence it has on the food and safety industry.

The SAPCA PestBiz convention is the preferred platform for pest control professionals to network, gather expert information and advice on global trends and technology. This year the programme includes speakers with the likes of Dr Gerhard Verdoorn of the Griffon Poison Centre. Dr Verdoorn is a recognised figure within pest control circles and will be hosting a workshop on Act 36 of 1947 on Fertilizers, farm feeds, agricultural remedies and stock remedies.

The Act aims to provide for the appointment of a Registrar of Fertilizers, farm feeds, agricultural and stock remedies; sterilizing plants and pest control operators; to regulate or prohibit the importation, sale, acquisition, disposal or use of fertilizers, farm feeds, agricultural remedies and stock remedies; to provide for the designation of technical advisers and stock remedies.

Addressing some of the more burning issues will be J F Luterek from Hahn and Hahn Attorneys who will shed some light on the Consumer Protection Act with special reference to the pest control industry. Dries Pretorius will focus his attention on pest control and food safety procedures and practises and Bridget Corrigan from Project Executant for Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Healthy Rivers Programme will highlight the importance of freshwater resources for people and the environment. Also on the list of speakers is Bruce Breedt from the South African Wood Preserving Association who will share his thoughts on what the primary preservative treatment of timber in South Africa should be. Tying into this topic will be SAPCA board member Colin Jardine from Pest Control Specialists who will be discussing timber identification.

The programme also boasts a record number of workshops and demonstrations, adding practical application to the more theoretical discussions. Coupled with an entertainment evening on Tuesday and a sit down dinner on Wednesday this year’s event should not be missed.

The cost of the convention is R2200 for SAPCA members for early bird registrations (before 30 June 2011) and R2400 for late registrations (regular fee from 1 July 2011). Non-members pay R2600 for early bird registrations and R2800 for late registrations. Shuttle services will be available to and from the O.R Tambo Airport every hour. For more information or to confirm your booking for the convention, contact SAPCA on 086 111 4556 or visit www.sapca.org.za.