Former state premiers, major industrialists and researchers will flock to Cairns next week for the Property Council of Australia Congress 08.
The congress will discuss issues including the credit crunch, politics and recruiting talents.
Among the delegates will be former NSW premier Bob Carr and author and former adviser to Paul Keating, Don Watson.
A welcome reception will be held on Sunday with a formal opening ceremony on Monday followed by the start to presentations that will continue until Tuesday afternoon.
The delegates will have a chance to enjoy the Far North with a host of sporting events organised for Sunday including deep sea fishing, white water rafting, bungy jumping and golf.
Discussion points will include the nation’s prospects with nine Labor governments and Dr Peter Van Onselen, from Edith Cowan University, will be a key speaker.
Author Ray Hammond, Stockland chairman Graham Bradley and Social Ventures Australia executive director Chris Cuffe will be keynote speakers.
Mr Carr, Mr Watson and 2005 Young Australian of the Year, Khoa Do, will be among the delegates to address the topic of 'nation building'.
On Monday afternoon, the delegates will take a tour of some of Cairns' development "hot spots".
A discussion of industry 'hot topics' will take place at 3.30pm on Tuesday, moderated by comedian Vince Sorrenti.
The event is expected to again show the economic value of major conferences to Cairns.
