With less than four days to go until PacPrint09 opens in Melbourne, orgaisers have announced that Victorian minister for industry and trade and industrial relations Martin Pakula will officially open the event (May 26 at 9.45 am). Some 20,000 visitors are expected during the week, a quarter of them from interstate, New Zealand or other countries. Pakula will join PacPrint chairman, Alastair Hadley, and the heads of co-hosts GAMAA (Karen Goldsmith, executive director) and PIAA (Phillip Anderson, chief executive). Hadley says the PacPrint board was delighted to welcome Pakula to open the event, which has great relevance to his portfolios: “In Australia, and in countries across the world, the print and graphic communications industry continues to be of major significance,” Hadley says. “Despite challenging economic times, environmental challenges and constant predictions of demise in an increasingly digital world, the industry remains not only relevant, but a vital leader in technology, communication and sustainability as it transforms to meet the challenges of the future.” • Forum panellists for PacPrint have also been named today. With keynote speakers (below) they are: Wednesday 27th May | Visions for the Future A look at the economic and business climate, future directions and opportunites. Keynote Speaker | Professor Neville Norman Panellists Cliff Brigstocke - Opus/Ligare Group Graham Morgan - Geon Group John Wanless - Bambra Press Pty Ltd Thursday 28th May | The Environment Future strategies in response to climate change and the environment. Keynote Speaker | Dr Peter Ellyard Panellists David Fuller - Focus Press Rodney Wade - Finsbury Green Phil Lawrence - Ecological Strategies Friday 29th May | Future Leadership The making and motivating of leaders for the future. Keynote Speaker | David Parkin Panellists Rod Dawson - Southern Colour Alex Commins - Colorpark Carolyn Cagney - Five Star Press