Forrest to speak at PGA Convention

Pastoralist and Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) chairman Andrew Forrest is just one in a top line up of speakers for the opening session of the Pastoralists and Graziers Association (PGA) Convention on September 26.

Mr Forrest has been an outspoken critic of excessive regulation and red tape affecting WA's regional industries, as well as the Government's Mining Resource Rent Tax, which FMG is challenging in the High Court on constitutional grounds.

Mr Forrest grew up on Minderoo, a sheep and cattle station near Onslow in the Pilbara. He is the founder of FMG and the Australian's Children's Trust, among other charities and companies.

After graduating in economics and politics from university, he built a career in investment banking, mining and farming. He has created some of the largest raw material exporters in the world, while pursuing major social issues on a domestic and international basis.

Mr Forrest has been awarded the Australian Centenary Medal, the Australia Sports Medal, Australian Social Entrepreneur of the Year, WA Citizen of the Year for his contribution to regional development and The Mining Journal's Mining Lifetime Achievement Award.

Recognised widely as family orientated and a strong community and arts supporter, he is very active in ventures to help underprivileged children locally and internationally.

Mr Forrest will address the PGA Convention in the morning session, starting at 9am in the Boundary Room at the WACA ground in East Perth.

The line-up of speakers for the day includes WA Governor Malcolm McCusker; WA Agriculture Minister Terry Redman; Wellard Group managing director Mauro Balzarini; Greg Canavan, editor, Sound Money & Contributor for the Daily Reckoning; Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA chief economist John Nicolaou; Kimberley pastoralist Jack Burton; James Point chief executive Chris Whittaker; and RSM Bird Cameron partner Judy Snell.