Interpretation Australia's National Symposium
10 - 12 November 2010, Launceston, Tasmania.

Get to the core of what matters in natural and cultural heritage interpretation. Our keynote speakers and program presenters will delve into the intricacies of telling difficult stories and present the new and the excellent in interpretation, with techniques to reach audiences of the new decade.

Our early bird registration (to 15 September 2010), provisional program and inspiring range of national and international keynote speakers are available at www.interpretationaustralia.asn.au.

Staged on the Apple Isle, our theme Peeling back the layers will probe a range of ‘juicy' topics that promise to reveal exciting and fresh new insights for professionals and new comers alike!

Storyteller, Catherine McCarthy from Texas, driven by her desire to connect people with nature, examines the field of location-based interpretive technology. Angelina Russo, lead in the national project "New Literacy, New Audiences", explores simple and practical ways of considering how to embed social media in interpretation practice, the complexities of organisational change and the simplicity of opening up to audience engagement online.

In telling difficult stories, Lycia Trouton explores issues of monumentality and the intimate art of memory and story-telling, while Jody Steele looks at the layers of technique in communicating archaeology to the public. Dillon Kombumerri, Australia's first Indigenous architect, with several award-winning projects, brings insight into how cultural protocol, when working with Indigenous communities, can fundamentally shape design outcomes.

Peter Grant peels back the layers on interpreters themselves. Using the interpretive planning process for Tasmania's iconic Overland Track, he asks how interpreters can reach the deepest layers within themselves to be true to their subject. Jane James tells how to harvest a bumper crop, when interpretation as a strategic priority can lead to stunning visitor experiences that are good for the visitor and good for business.

Peeling back the layers offers a dynamic and varied program. Presentations, workshops, field trips and events at top natural and cultural interpretive sites will truly indulge our senses and creative spirit.

Expect to be challenged and inspired with diverse presentations of short papers in issue-related sessions, workshops, mini sessions or "Pips", as well as facilitated workshops toward resolving a Challenge.

Field trips and off-site social venues, Launceston's Cataract Gorge with boat trip and new interpretation, the Symposium dinner at Brickendon Historic Farm and Convict Village and trip to Woolmers Estate, both part of the recent convict site serial inscription for World Heritage, Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery with its Blacksmith's Shop, and the Welcome hosted at J Boags Brewery, are chosen to extend our experiences of place and theme.

More information and registration is available online at www.interpretationaustralia.asn.au.  Additional enquiries to Symposium Secretariat, Penny Archer .