The Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association has mailed out copies of the registration brochure to it members. People wanting to attend the event can also register online now in a new, secure environment by visiting APPEA’s conference website at www.appea2008.com.au

“Our online registration is a one-stop shop,” APPEA said. “You can register, book accommodation and arrange pre-conference and post-conference touring options - even order your industry permit maps and books.”

Under the dynamic theme, "Energising Change", a range of plenary speakers will present at APPEA 2008, including:

• Federal Minister for Resources and Energy Martin Ferguson;

• Western Australian Deputy Premier Eric Ripper;

• BHP Billiton Petroleum chief executive J Michael Yeager;

• ExxonMobil vice president established areas projects Alan Hirshberg;

• Royal Dutch Shell executive director gas & power Linda Cook;

• Chevron Australia energy technology president Mark Puckett;

• Wood Mackenzie head of European gas & power consulting Ben Hollins; US Department of Energy acting principal deputy assistant secretary for Fossil Energy Jim Slutz;

• British High Commissioner Helen Liddell;

• WesternGeco president and Schlumberger vice-president Dalton Boutte;

• International Association of Drilling Contractors president and chief executive officer Dr Lee Hunt; and

• CGGVeritas geophysical manager, marine acquisition Philip Fontana.

The plenary speakers will be supported by an expanded technical program that features Australian and international presenters discussing commercial, technical and public policy issues. This year’s technical and commercial program will have 16 concurrent sessions and two poster sessions with more than 90 presentations on offer.