Aus & NZ Ministers for Ag emphasise trans-Tasman collaboration at PMA Fresh Connections in Auckland
In a conference first, the Hon. Nathan Guy was joined via video by Australia’s Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Barnaby Joyce. Their joint appearance gave a truly Trans-Tasman flavour to proceedings at the Australasian region’s largest networking, education and business building event for the entire fresh fruit, vegetable and floral supply chains.
“Hon. Barnaby Joyce and Hon. Nathan Guy really emphasised the importance of collaboration between Australia and New Zealand, and across the supply chain from paddock to plate. In particular they spoke about collaborating to capitalise on the huge opportunities that exist for both countries into servicing the local and export markets for fresh produce” said Michael Worthington, CEO of Produce Marketing Association Australia-New Zealand (PMA A-NZ).
Worthington said it had been a fantastic start to the event, with over 1100 delegates from Australia, New Zealand and around the world making the trip for the first PMA Fresh Connections in New Zealand:
“The buzz surrounding PMA Fresh Connections this year has been incredible. It’s certainly been the largest event of its kind in New Zealand. Walking the trade show floor, you really get the sense that business is being done and new networks are being formed.”
A hallmark of PMA Fresh Connections, tonight’s Gala Dinner will include the presentation of industry awards including the PMA – Produce Plus Magazine Marketer of the Year Award, the Horticulture New Zealand Bledisloe Cup, and the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Wholesaler’s Meritorious Service Award, and Col Johnson Young Achievers Award. The conference and trade show component of the event will conclude on Thursday, with a tour of the Pukekohe growing region to be held on Friday.
This year’s conference is the result of a unique collaboration between PMA A-NZ, Horticulture New Zealand, United Fresh New Zealand, and the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries. Registrations are available onsite. For more information please visit www.pmafreshconnections.com.au