The Scientific Programme for 35IGC is developing exceptionally well and we plan to offer an outstanding schedule which will cover more than 50 earth science themes – a total of 220 symposium proposals have now been submitted online. Themes and symposium proposals can be viewed on the individual theme pages on www.35igc.org/Themes.

The call for abstracts opened on 1st July 2015 and will close on 31st January 2016. You are urged to submit your abstract as early as possible. Abstracts will be submitted in a camera-ready format and as a template with detailed instructions is available on the website. Please follow the abstract submission instructions carefully or you run the risk of it not being processed and returned to you.

If you are intending to apply for GeoHost assistance, kindly read the terms and conditions before you submit your abstract. Direct any questions to the GeoHost Chair: Jeannette E. McGill

Submission of proposals for short courses and workshops will remain open until 31st December 2015 ). Please note that the number of workshops may be limited and will be subject to venue availability. Contact Workshop and Short Courses Chair, Dr Grant Bybee for queries.

Bookings for business meetings at 35IGC will also remain open until 31st December 2015. Contact coordinators Danie Barnardo or Juanita Van Wyk with your requirements.

Pre- and Post-Congress Field Trips with short descriptions of the itineraries may be viewed here or contact the Field trip Chair, Chris Hatton.

CRITICAL DATES

SUPER EARLY BIRD RATES – OPEN 1 SEPT 2015

Super Early Bird registration discounts are applicable to registration with payment received on/before 1st November. Please visit the website and follow us on Facebook , Twitter or Linkedin for up-to-date news.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST COMPETITION

In order to assist with planning 35IGC, your views and anticipated interests are needed on the Scientific Programme, Field Trips and all other aspects. Please participate in the online survey right away AND STAND TO WIN FREE REGISTRATION FOR THE CONGRESS! Only fully completed surveys will be considered. The competition closes on 29th February 2016 and the winner of the draw will be announced on the 15th March 2016.

SOCIAL MEDIA PROGRAMME & COMPETITION

We have been gratified by the huge volume of conversation and comment that is already taking place in the social media between the members of the Organising Committee and thousands of prospective delegates. We encourage this interaction and hope that by the time the Congress starts we will all be old friends!

The 35^TH IGC makes use of three main social media platforms: Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook, as well as a blog on our website to keep delegates abreast of preparations for this ‘Olympics of Geology’.

You are encouraged to use our social media platforms and to join the conversations. As an incentive, we are offering one lucky Emailer, Tweeter or Facebook follower the chance to win one free registration.

	Follow us on Facebook or Twitter.
	Tell us which newspaper has voted Cape Town as the best city in the world to visit. (scroll down on our Facebook page and Twitter feeds for the answer)
	Use the following sentence in a Tweet or as a post on our Facebook page: “I'm looking forward to #35IGC in Cape Town, voted by (insert name of newspaper) as the best city in the world to visit”. Alternatively, email your answer to juanitaw@geoscience.org.za.

The winner of the draw will be announced 60 days prior to the start of the congress.

CALL FOR SPONSORSHIPS

The Organising Committee of the 35^TH International Geological Congress extends an invitation to organisations and individuals to participate in the event by sponsoring.

Since each potential sponsor has a different set of objectives, requirements and budget, a number of sponsorship options have been made available, which allows sponsors to choose the opportunity that best meets their particular requirements. Interested parties are encouraged to view these options. However, should the proposed opportunities not suit your company needs, please contact the organisers to discuss alternatives.

Please note sponsorship packages are allocated on a ‘first come first served’ basis and, once allocated, sponsors will be supported to ensure that they receive the maximum return on their investment and the agreed level of exposure.

Once again, we encourage you to visit our website link and/or contact the Sponsorship Chair, Mike Wuth atmikew@xbt.co.za for more information.

SPONSORS TO DATE:

CALL FOR EXHIBITORS

The Organising Committee of the 35^TH International Geological Congress extends an invitation to organisations and companies to participate in the event by obtaining a stand for exhibition.

Visit our website or contact Professional Congress Organiser, Lesley Ferreira.

Twenty-five percent of the available stands have been sold!

GEOHOST PROGRAMME

Financial support obtained through sponsorship or funding will assist young geoscientists (inclusive of YES participants) and deserving geoscientists from low-income countries to participate as full delegates. Contact Chair Jeannette E. McGill.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME UPDATE

The Volunteer Programme will enable South African students who do not qualify for GeoHost funding to attend. Visit our website or contact Chair, Elna van Niekerk.

We look forward to welcoming you to Cape Town - Greg Botha, Secretary General 35^TH IGC Organising Committee.