THE 34th CAFP ANNUAL CONFERENCE A GREAT SUCCESS

The Northumberland branch wowed 167 delegates over a five day period in June during the CAFP National Conference with the featured theme “Wind in Your Sails”. In true Nova Scotian hospitality, the delegates were exposed to great speakers, great food and great entertainment. Twenty seven companions joined the event, taking part in area tours, social activities and educational sessions.

The conference was held on the beautiful grounds of St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish. As an opening ice-breaker activity, the ’Nish Great Race, provided an opportunity to explore the campus as well as the town of Antigonish. Team members participated in various activities such as touring the oldest collection of Gaelic books outside of Scotland, dynamic hands on activities with university professors; as well as short presentations at a local art gallery, bookstore and culinary store.

Business insights including those on the new workforce demographics were presented. The management style required for a semi retired senior is completely different than that of a twenty something worker! Although the differences should be obvious, the humorous presentation brought some stark realizations about the flexibility required in today’s managers.

The motivational speaker, Janice Butler literally moved her audience to ‘Sail away’ from our safe Harbour by stepping away from our comfort zone both at a professional and personal level. This interactive, high-energy speaker had the crowd on their feet challenging the audience to step out and take risks.

During the social evening at the university pub, the audience experienced the real flavor of the province! Various speakers shared information about such programs as Clean Nova Scotia that contribute to a cleaner and more environmentally friendly province; the Nova Scotia’s Learn to Fish Program which is trying to recapture interest of youth in the sport fishery; the Taste of Nova Scotia Program promoting food producers and restaurants using local products. Also featured was an oyster fisherman sharing knowledge about growing and harvesting oysters as well as learning from a sommelier about Nova Scotian wines and proper tasting procedures. A smorgasbord of Nova Scotia products was available for sampling.

The meals and coffee breaks were varied and tasty. The food presentation and food service provided by Sodexo was top-notch. Food highlights included the opening evening “Mug-Up”, a mussel bar and lobster boil at Crystal Cliffs as well as the closing president’s gala featuring a five course ceremonial Scottish Dinner with entertainment by the Caledonian Scottish Fiddle Orchestra and the Scottish Country Dancers.

Throughout the conference, a Scottish bag piper led the participants from venue ensuring the delegates were at the right place at the right time.

The conference was well balanced with educational sessions and social events giving the delegates the opportunity to hear about current industry issues, network with their peers and experience Nova Scotia.

Stay tuned for the National Food Bytes newsletter for more details of the conference events.