The world renowed Gold Coast will provide a perfect backdrop for this exciting scientific meeting. The Congress will be held at the Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, located at Broadbeach a few kilometres south of Surfers Paradise. The main conference hotels - Conrad Jupiters Hotel and Casino and the Sofitel Gold Coast - are a few minutes walk from the Centre and the wide range of alternative accommodation within walking distance will suit any budget.

The Gold Coast is one of Australia's leading tourist destinations. Millions of visitors come each year from around the world to enjoy its sandy surfing and family beaches, championship golf courses, theme parks and bushwalking in the lovely Hinterland. There is great shopping and many fine restaurants catering for all tastes. The Gold Coast has a pleasant climate all year round, boasting 287 days of sunshine per year. In October/November, the average daytime temperature is 15 - 25 degrees Celsius.

The nearest international airport is Brisbane Airport approximately 80Km from Broadbeach. From Brisbane Airport you can travel to the Gold Coast by Airtrain (approx AU$25 one way), by shuttle bus (approx A$35 one way) or by limousine (approx AU$170 one way). All the major car hire companies also have offices at the airport.

The Gold Coast Airport at Currumbin is 10min from Broadbeach and takes international flights direct from NZ. The shuttle bus service is approx AU$20 one way and a taxi approx AU$35.

Tours

There is plenty to do and see on the Gold Coast, from daytime adventure tours and fantastic shopping to the theme parks - Movie World, Seaworld, Dreamworld and WetnWild or Paradise Country Aussie Farm Tour - each of which is full day on its. In the evenings you can enjoy dining out or visiting the theatre or one of the many night-clubs in the area, or enjoy the Australian Outback Spectacular.

Arrangements have been made with a local tour company for delegates to book tours direct with them at a discounted cost of 5% off published prices. Brochure [PDF] These discounted prices will also be available before and after the conference. Tours include half-day sightseeing and shopping tours on the Gold Coast, whale watching, ballooning, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Mt Tambourine Winery, the Glow Worm Tour and the Aussie Night Safari.