Growers gather for Hort Innovation forum

IMAGE: Hort Innovation

Australian horticulture growers have gathered this week for Hort Innovation’s inaugural Impact Update forum, aimed at strengthening collaboration and showcasing investment across the sector.

Held alongside Hort Connections, the event focused on how research, trade, market access and biosecurity investment can support the long-term profitability and resilience of Australian horticulture.

Hort Innovation Chief Executive Brett Fifield says the forum gave growers an opportunity to share practical experiences and discuss what is delivering value on farm during a difficult operating environment.

Industry leaders addressed issues including productivity, exports, risk management and supply chain performance, while growers shared examples of how industry investment is helping improve margins and reduce business risk.

Managing Director of Manbulloo, Marie Piccone, says the event created valuable opportunities for growers from different regions and commodities to learn from one another and take practical ideas back to their own businesses.

Australian horticulture is forecast to become a 21-billion-dollar industry by 2030, with organisers indicating the Impact Update forum is expected to return next year.