Australian International Arid Lands Festival and Expo, hosted by Hughenden Queensland.
August 22, 23 & 24th August, 2008.
In a Country where 70% of the land mass is classified arid and which is experiencing one of the worst droughts on record this is an event that will capture the attention of the nation.
The purpose of this will be to bring together leading experts, policy makers, land managers, environmentalists and government agencies from across the globe to share their knowledge on the latest developments in control and management of natural resources in arid zones.
To share their thoughts, research, observations and proposals with others, so that future management efforts can be guided by a comprehensive understanding of the issues at hand. It will promote dialogue between all groups working in arid zones and identify areas where future research is required. The Festival will contribute to the better understanding of the problems facing arid zones and help to develop improved management plans for plant and animal species, communities and ecosystems in arid regions of the world 
The Festival and expo will focus attention on what are the best methods of arid agriculture from not only Australia but the rest of the world. It will promote sustainable use of natural resources and enhance public awareness in the conservation of natural resources.
The Festival will involve speakers from around the world converging on Hughenden and foster the dissemination of information on environmental management issues among the general community. It will showcase the latest in farming techniques, machinery and technology that has been developed to deal with the problems of climate change. There will be practical demonstrations and theoretical debate. It will pose questions and discuss solutions. 
The Festival will not only be relevant to the people who live and work in the arid regions, it will also have information for the city dweller as after all they are part of the dilemma and very a integral part of this country’s future solution.
Government departments and business will be there to showcase their products and services to demonstrate what is possible, where are we heading and what can be done to improve productivity and sustainability in arid regions.
There could even be potential for Hughenden through it’s visionary approach to be selected as the site for the establishment of an arid research centre for Queensland, creating jobs and wealth for a sometimes sadly forgotten part of the world, the Outback. This is truly a great opportunity for Hughenden to show to the rest of Australia and the world what can be achieved if a small community can put their mind and resources to such an event.
The Festival will coincide with The Great Hughenden Camel Endurance Challenge and a weekend of fun and excitement which will bring the town to life and show those attending the conference that the people of Hughenden have the legendry outback spirit of hospitality and friendship necessary to bring the world together.