Featuring presentations on orchard economics, post-harvest innovation, labour efficiency and narrow orchard systems, the event program will be complemented by panel discussions, grower case studies and an afternoon plenary session.
The speaker line-up includes, Professor Bill Malcolm from the School of Agriculture, Food and Ecosystem Sciences at the University of Melbourne, Jeremy Griffith, Head of Industry, Government Relations and Advocacy at APAL, Jesse Reader, Head of Investment, Growth and Commercial at Hort Innovation, Alberto Dorigoni, renowned Italian researcher, Ben James, Business Manager – Apples at Craigmore Sustainables, David Manktelow, Business Owner at Applied Research and Technologies, Jonathan Brookes, Horticultural Consultant at AgFirst, Brett Squibb, Fruit Grower at RW Squibb and Sons orchard and Nic Finger, Industry Services Manager – Grower Development and Trials at APAL.
Mr Dorigoni is a former researcher at Italy’s Edmund Mach Foundation and now a global consultant in sustainable multi-leader orchard systems. Alberto manages his own orchard in Trento, focusing on reducing chemical, labour and fossil fuel inputs while enabling mechanisation and respecting tree physiology.
Mr James is a Business Manager at Craigmore Sustainables in New Zealand, who brings hands-on experience in large-scale orchard development. Named the Horticentre Group Horticulturalist of the Year 2024, Mr James has led significant growth across new and existing orchard sites, with a strong focus on building capability and excellence within his teams.
For bookings and information visit the Eventbrite registration page.