Partners' Program

A full partners program will be run in conjunction with this year's Convention. Partners of Delegates can enjoy a full week of activities while experiencing some of the great attractions Canberra has to offer.

The partners' program registration fee is inclusive of all Convention social functions. The partners program is a great opportunity to explore our capital and make new friends.

Partners' Program Schedule

Day 1

Exhibition Opening Drinks

The ACT Minister for Transport John Hargraves introduces you to our 2008 convention destination and speaks about what it has to offer. This is a chance to catch up with friends and colleagues over a drink amidst our unique roving entertainers.

Day 2

Tour of Old Parliament House

Decades of politics and passion echo through the corridors of Old Parliament House, making it one of Australia's most memorable heritage Attractions.

Old Parliament House is a museum of social and political history, located in the nationally listed heritage building. You will take a 45 minute guided tour in which you will experience an atmosphere steeped in history, revisiting dramatic dramatic events in Australia's past.

Your highly trained tour guide will explain the significance and purpose of the different chambers and rooms throughout the house while you enjoy the 1920s architecture and fine design.

Lunch at Old parliament House

Following your guided tour of Old Parliament House take in the historic surroundings reminiscent of Australia's political past with a delicious lunch at the Café in the House, located within Old Parliament House.

Pre-Dinner Drinks

Return from your hotel refreshed and ready for the action of the Auction Night. Enjoy a drink with friends in the unique setting that is the National Museum of Australia.

Auction Night

A huge night of fun, non stop bidding action and excitement ensures in the spectacle that is the Auction Night.

Day 3

Meat and Wine tasting at Poachers Pantry

Immerse yourself in the quintessential Australian Landscape and receive some of the best produce the the Canberra region has to offer.

Poachers Pantry is nestled in the hills just 25 minutes outside the Canberra city. The rural atmosphere will provide you with a stress free environment that will allow you to focus on the wonderful tastes on offer. Spoil your tastebuds with a guided tasting of Willy Trout wines and smoked meats outside on the terrace, each combination carefully matched to show you the magic created by correct food and wine combinations.

Following the tasting you will be seated in the Smokehouse Café, located in the lovingly restored old farm cottage with a smart but casual feel. Here you will enjoy your choice of main course meal, wine and desert. This will be followed by a relaxing cup of tea or coffee, which can be enjoyed while exploring this stunning unique rural setting.

Free Evening

This is a chance for you and your partner to get out and about and explore one of the many amazing attractions this wonderful city has to offer.

Day 4

Guided Tour of the National Gallery of Australia

The pride of Canberra, the National Gallery exhibits collections that highlight the talent of Australian and international artists. A vast range of mediums and styles grace the walls of this contemporary space set on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin.

You will take part in the Highlights tour of the permanent collection of the national gallery. Your tour will look at some of the major works in the collection from both Australian and International Artists. Likely to be included in the tour is Jackson Pollick's Blue Poles, the Aboriginal memorial poles and Sidney Nolan's Kelly Series.

Awards Luncheon

Enjoy our final entertaining lunch of the Convention and meet the finalists of the National Trucking Industry Awards.

ATA Foundation Sponsors Gala Awards Dinner

The Awards gala dinner is an opportunity to recognise the people who have contributed to making the trucking industry great. Delegates will enjoy a fabulous dinner, some great entertainment and the chance to mix with friends and colleagues in an informal relaxed environment.