The Nematological Society of Southern Africa (NSSA) will be presenting its 19th symposium at the Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort in Hazyview, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Registration will commence Sunday evening (17 May 2009) with conference closure scheduled for 20 May 2009.

The Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort is situated within the 500 ha “llanga nature and game reserve” with over 100 different species of indigenous bush and breeding herds of non-aggressive game peacefully roam the reserve. On site hiking trials, tennis courts, swimming pools as well as water activities on Casa do Sol’s dam together with numerous other adventure activities close by will ensure a memorable stay. There are 5 golf courses within close proximity of the hotel and the Shangaan Cultural Village is just a short drive away. Casa do Sol is also situated close to some of the jewels of creation – God’s Window, the Blyde River Canyon and many other scenic glories of Mpumalanga. And the world famous Kruger National Park is just a hop away.

The symposium will be focusing on the science of Nematology, refresher lectures, latest research, the impact of nematodes on agriculture and the interaction between the science of Nematology and related commercial activities. Networking opportunities within and between the scientific and business communities will be plenty.

Please download the second announcement for more information.

There were 46 oral presentations and 17 poster presentations of a high standard and it was rewarding to see the engagement of the delegates on several topics. Student turnout was good with several presenting and the student award was deservedly won by Jean de Waal.

Driving the objective of engaging the delegates with the conference the social activities were some of the highlights of the conference. The Sunday cocktail was a rather sedate affair yet by the time the beach party had started on Monday one could sense the changing vibe, the beach had been decked out in an Arabian theme and with the welcome cocktails specially formulated to start the party the symposium members got into the spirit of the party. A fantastic time was held by all with the only challenge being for the Tuesday morning speakers being up to the task! The closing Gala night incorporated live music which got most people dancing after the formalities and was superbly MC’d by Dr Hennie Le Roux.

The Boardwalk is a quality venue, with a well run conference support team and with the constant management of Jean Osborne the programme ran to schedule. Sponsors came to the party to supply significant financial support to make this all possible and their support is gratefully acknowledged in the symposium program. Acknowledgement must be given to the entire Nematological Society Executive which was fully involved in making the symposium a success.

In conclusion the combination of a stimulating scientific program matched with engaging social activities made the 18th Symposium a success with the generation of many good memories!