Sharks International – June 2010

In June 2010 Cairns, Australia will host the first dedicated global shark science conference in over 20 years. This meeting is aimed at gathering the world’s leading shark experts to discuss the most up to date scientific discoveries in shark and ray research. Given the growing global concern for populations of sharks and rays throughout the world this meeting will provide an opportunity for researchers from around the globe to discuss what is happening in their regions and work toward international solutions to effective conservation, use and management of sharks and rays.

The meeting will involve world leader’s in shark research in addition to students, managers, conservation agencies and representatives from industries that utilise and rely on sharks such as fishermen and dive tourism operators. The conference will provide a forum for sharing the most recent scientific breakthroughs in shark and ray research and provide opportunities for individuals from around the world to share results and build projects that span the globe.

The conference hopes to have a truly global attendance and as such as invited four keynote speakers from around the world. Geremy Cliff (South Africa), Chris Lowe (USA), Barry Bruce (Australia) and John West (Australia) will cover topics ranging from movement and behaviour to public protection programs and shark attack statistics.

A wide variety of research topics and species will be covered during the conference. Individuals interested in or researching sharks and rays are encouraged to attend and/or participate in the meeting. Full details about the conference can be found on the conference website (www.sharksinternational.org) but a summary of key information is listed below.

Dates and Venue:

• 6-11 June, 2010
• Rydges Esplanade Resort, Cairns, Qld, Australia
• Accommodation is available at the conference venue for a reduced rate

Registration and abstract information:

• Early bird registration and abstract deadlines are 28 February
• Full registration closes on 15 April
• Discount registration rates are also available for students and individuals from developing nations
• Travel award deadline is also 28 February

Travel information:

• Detailed information about traveling to Australia (need for visas, etc) are listed on the conference website.
• Some funding is available to support travel of students and early career researchers to attend the meeting. Please see the Sharks International website for further details.