Reliving World Potato Congress 2024: A Grand Opening and Culinary Celebration

Potatoes Australia Ltd took great pride in hosting the 12th World Potato Congress 2024.. Potatoes Australia Ltd. Chairman Dr. Nigel Crump and Potatoes Australia Ltd. Executive Officer, Sonia Waterson welcomed guests to the event for the official opening.

This prestigious global event was opened on Sunday June 23, by The Honorary Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development. The World Potato Congress has been running for over 30 years and this is the first time it has been held in Australia.

Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development.

The welcome function, sponsored by the South Australian Government’s Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), featured a Welcome to Country by Robert Taylor, honouring the traditional custodians, the Kaurna people.

The traditional custodians, the Kaurna people

Delegates from over 40 countries enjoyed an evening of exceptional South Australian hospitality. Savouring in local wines and indulging in the rich flavours and culinary excellence of the South Australian region.

Delegates from over 40 countries participated in the World Potato Congress 2024.

Acclaimed Chef, Duncan Welgemoed of Africola fame, prepared gastronomic delights for delegates to enjoy. Duncan produced exotic, sumptuous canapes with locally grown potatoes as the hero, of course. Dishes included potato and chorizo bomba, potato scallops with ocean trout roe and whipped 'truffled' potato.

Chef Duncan Welgemoed and The Honorary Clare Scriven MLC, enjoying a potato scallop

The program officially commenced Monday morning the 24th of June, with an opening address by Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson. Followed by, The Honorary Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development and Sponsors remarks by Elders Rural Services, Chris Willis.s.

Frances Adamson, the Governor of South Australia

Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development

Chris Willis, the General Manager of Elders Rural Services

Dr Peter VanderZaag, President of the World Potato Congress Inc. delivered the WPC President Address. The theme for this years World Potato Congress was "Old World Meets New".

Peter VanderZaag, President of the World Potato Congress Inc

Before a morning tea break, Guy Hareau, Principal Scientist at the International Potato Center (CIP) in Lima, Peru, presented an overview of World Potato Production.

Guy Hareau, Principal Scientist at the International Potato Center (CIP)