The Australian Macadamia Society (AMS) will launch a new event in Queensland this week to cater to the increasing demand for information from new and potential investors about the burgeoning Australian macadamia industry.
The AMS New Grower Workshop will take place in Bundaberg on Fri and Sat 17-18 June and play host to a cross-section of new and prospective macadamia growers and investors from around Australia all keen to
learn more about the industry and how to get involved.
It is the first time the workshop has been held in Queensland (and only the third time in total).
“Interest from people wanting to get involved in the Australian macadamia industry has steadily been growing over the past two years. We’ve had hundreds of calls,” says Australian Macadamia Industry Productivity Development Manager Robbie Commens.
“It all started with the feature story about our industry on ABC’s ‘Landline’ program in May 2014. A high industry profile, together with good prices and a good crop, means our industry is a very attractive option for potential investors and growers.”
Workshop attendees hail from a diverse range of backgrounds, including people who have worked in the cane, dairy, mining and engineering industries.
Workshop participants will receive in-depth information about the industry by a team of industry experts including Mr. Commens, Market Development Manager Lynne Ziehlke and well known grower and international consultant Kim Wilson. Topics will include international production and demand, key markets, research and development, productivity, new orchard development and attendees will gain a plethora of practical tips and resources.
Kim will deliver an information session on ‘How to sell your nuts’, and on Saturday the group will visit five local macadamia orchards, where they’ll meet some of our most innovative local growers.
“We’re in the unique position of being able to give new entrants to the industry access to the massive intellectual wealth of our industry – other growers, researchers, processors and consultants to name a few. Our industry is renowned for its propensity to share information,” says Mr. Commens.
What: AMS New Grower Workshop
Where: Day 1 Fri – Sugerland Tavern (Avoca Room) 52 Johnson St, Bundaberg (9am-3pm)
Day 2 Sat – Orchard Tours (see below – times are approximate)
Media are invited to attend the workshop on Friday or Saturday for photo/interview/vision opportunities.
Please phone Nyree Epplett to arrange an interview.
For more information:
Nyree Epplett – Communications Manager
Australian Macadamia Society
Mob: 0434 261 070
Tel: 1800 262 426 (Aust), +61 2 6622 4933