Conference update and FAQs

The formal online submissions will open very soon, once the wonderful APS events and graphic design teams have finished helping us to format it. The deadline for submissions is June 4th, 5 weeks away - this will allow us to get through the blind review process in June, and prepare the programme and online registrations for release in August.

CCN members have been responding to a survey about our conferences, and some of the comments are worth addressing here

1. CPD logging for the Psychology Board of Australia - concern from one member that there won't be time to log the conference as a PD activity by the November 30 deadline.
In reference to the first CPD cycle, the Board states that Psychologists will be required to declare on their (registration) renewal that they have understood and met the requirements of the CPD standard. Submission of the CPD plan, activity log and reflective journal is not required unless selected for an audit.
So if you need CPD points from the conference, and worry about not having time to log it before November 30th, don't worry!

2. Cost of transport to non-capital cities.
Launceston is well-serviced by Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin airways. There are frequent direct flights from Melbourne, and there are also daily direct flights from Sydney and Brisbane.
If you keep your eyes open for special offers, you can often fly one-way from Launceston to Melbourne for less than $80, to Sydney for under $130, and to Brisbane for $200 or less. Our family enjoyed a holiday in Far North Queensland last year for $249 per person (Launceston to Cairns).
For those with a little more time on their hands, who might like to do some driving in this beautiful state, the Spirit of Tasmania sails from Station Pier in Port Melbourne every day, and it can cost as little as $69 to bring your motor vehicle on the crossing.

3. Accommodation options
Launceston has many different accommodation options for different budgets. The ones listed on this blog represent a range of hotels with a good reputation who have offered special deals for conference attendees. There are also backpackers' hostels and other options available, including a range of exquisite B&B and self-catered apartments, so have a look at your favourite accommodation site, and think about linking up with a colleague to share.


4. Places to network with colleagues at the conference venue
The Tramsheds at Inveresk are located in a university/museum/art gallery precinct. Neuropsychologists taking a break from the conference program who would like a comfortable place to sit and chat with colleagues can go to Blue Cafe just at the end of the Tramsheds (www.bluecafebar.com.au), and there is a coffee shop within the museum (museum entry is free). The Phenomenon Factory at the museum is recommended for neuropsychologists to connect with their inner scientist, particularly the bridge through a rolling drum that challenges the most resilient vestibular system. Otherwise, there is plenty of space to walk around the park-like setting at Inveresk, and along the river, for collegial chats coupled with brain-stimulating gentle exercise.