The Lachlan CMA held its 2009 Science Forum in Forbes. The Forum drew a large crowd of about 120 for the two day event and was co-hosted by the Lake Cowal Foundation. The theme for the Forum was "The Proof is in the Paddock" and was well reflected with an even mix of land managers, researchers and local government representatives. The focus was squarely on how science is applied in the paddock and how it affects the farm business.

"We have been really pleased with the support Lachlan land managers have given this event," said Mr Rob Gledhill, Chairman Lachlan CMA, " it is great to bring this group together to explore the link between the research and our farming systems."

The crowd were inspired by Professor David Goldney who gave a compelling keynote address on the Ecology of Farming identifying both the opportunities and limitations farming poses.

"One of the major attractants has been the opportunity for land managers to have input into future research needs in the Catchment," Mr Gledhill said. The program was designed to capture this feedback for each theme explored over the two days.

The Forum was held in Forbes over 2 days - Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th August and had a diverse program with an area of interest for everyone with speakers and sessions covering the themes of water, biodiversity, land and community. The crowd were inspired by Professor David Goldney who gave a compelling keynote address on the Ecology of Farming identifying both the opportunities and limitations farming poses.