Australia's melon growers are enjoying the tropical north this week at the biennial conference and field day in Townsville and Ayr in Queensland.
The conference brings together growers, researchers and supply chain representatives from across the industry for an innovative three-day event.
“We want to give growers the chance to look at new technologies and research and discuss how they can continue to farm in a profitable way,” the Australian Melon Association Chairman, Jon Caleo said.
“Part of the conference is a field day with over 4,000 metres of melon varieties on farm which makes sure that the conference experience is a valuable and practical one for all of the industry,” said Mr Caleo. “We just want to give growers the chance to really hone their knowledge and skills and to expose them to new ideas and opportunities,” he said.
The conference will feature presentations by speakers covering such diverse fields as agronomy, varieties, pest control, food safety and melon quality. Themes for the conference include:
• Important traits driving the melon and watermelon market
• Melon pollinators
• Management of melon viruses
• Management of food safety
• Smart sensing technologies for quality management
• Supporting good employers in horticulture.
• What is the future for horticulture in Australia?
The Australian Melon Industry Conference & Field Days is being held in Townsville from 17-19 September and 20 September at “Kenrose” near Ayr.
For more information:
Dianne Fullelove
Tel: +61 413 101 646
Email: idp@melonsaustralia.org.au