[apologies for the multiple copies of this that you might receive] --- Media Release (FOR RELEASE 21-Nov-97) Ourworld Global Network is proud to announce ISP.au, the first conference specifically focused on ISPs (Internet Service Providers) in Australia. This will be held in Sydney, Australia on December 12th to 14th, 1997. ISP.au will be a 3 day conference on a seminar/tutorial basis with a focus on both the business and network operations sides of operating ISPs. Speakers include leading technologists and business people in the ISP business in Australia and USA. Attendees will also include senior and executive management of ISPs in the Asia-Pacific region. The seminars will cover a series of topics including global developments in the ISP marketplace; regulatory issues affecting Australian ISPs; ISP industry associations; issues relating to APNIC and DNS registries; and various other issues relating to business development of ISPs. The tutorial series includes sessions on basic and advanced network operations held by routing gurus Avi Freedman (netaxs) and Justin Newton (priori, ex-erols); successful ISP marketing by Jesse Caulfield; and tips on working with APNIC held by David "Randy" Conrad, Director-General of APNIC. A highlight of ISP.au is a harbour cruise and dinner with bottomless drinks on the evening of Friday (Dec 12th) which will promote networking amongst ISPs and other parties in the industry. There are also other opportunities for networking during the conference, in particular in the meeting breakout room. The breakout room is be equipped with PCs with Internet connectivity. Internet connectivity is also provided in the main seminar meeting room via 10baseT switches (static IPs supplied if required) and 220VAC is provided. ISP.au was made possible by the generous sponsorship of Cisco Systems and Ourworld Global Network, but there will be no product pitches at this conference as it is intended to present an opportunity for ISPs in Australia to get together and to learn more about the unique marketplace that ISPs are in. --- A copy of the draft agenda and a registration form can be obtained by sending email to isp-au@aussie.net. This is an auto-responder that will return via email a copy of both the draft agenda and registration form. http://www.aussie.net/isp-au/ should be up and running by November 22nd. Further details can also be obtained from Rachael Stead or Rob Bridger via telephone to +61-2-9223-2777.