From June 1-4, Hort Connections 2026 brought the horticulture industry together in Adelaide for a week of insight, connection and collaboration.

Across the week, the conversation moved beyond ideas to what’s being applied on-farm – with growers, researchers and industry leaders sharing what’s working now, and what it means for the future of their businesses.

With just shy of 4,000 attendees this year, there were many highlights from across the week. Here are just a few:

Impact Update: hearing from growers on adoption and impact

The week kicked off with Hort Innovation’s inaugural Impact Update, where growers took the stage to share how they are applying research and innovation in their own businesses.

The session focused on practical – what’s being adopted, what’s delivering results, and what others across the industry can take away.

For growers in the room, it provided a clearer line of sight between investment and outcome, showing how research is translating into productivity gains, more informed decision-making and more resilient operations.

“Events like these are really valuable, bringing growers together from different industries to share what’s working on farm and learn from each other,” said Marie Piccone from Managing Director at Manbulloo Ltd.

“It’s not often we get the chance to connect across regions and commodities in this way, so those conversations really stick with you and help you take something practical back into your own business.”

Turning insight into action

Across the week, Hort Innovation contributed to panel sessions designed to translate complex topics into practical insight.

Together, these sessions explored key focus areas including exports, data and insights, capability, biosecurity and driving consumption through social media.

The message across the week was clear: when industry insight is shared and applied, it enables better decisions, stronger businesses and improved on-farm outcomes.

Flexing everything our industry has to offer

This year, we not only brought back our Curious Confectionery, but we also showcased some of our latest investments.

Attendees experienced interactive demonstrations and emerging technologies, including the ExoVantage exoskeleton suit and the VR Headsets being used as part of the Australian Avocado Industry Virtual Reality Training Program, providing a first-hand look at how research and development can support more efficient operations.

Taking things up a level, we were joined by Eddie the Strongman at our stand during networking drinks. Eddie brought the cheers and helped create a memorable moment for attendees – playfully bringing our latest Australian avocados campaign’s “bruisin’ while choosin’” message to life.

Frontiers breakfast looking ahead to what’s next

A staple of Hort Connections, the Frontiers breakfast brought industry leaders together to explore the opportunities shaping the future of Australian horticulture.

This year’s session focused on what’s next for the industry, from the role of grower innovation to the technology, capability and collaboration shaping Australia’s competitive edge.

For attendees, it offered a valuable forward-looking perspective, complementing the practical, on-farm insights shared throughout the week and reinforcing the importance of continued investment in both immediate action and long-term innovation to drive industry success.

Recognising the people driving the industry forward

To close out the week, we were delighted to recognise the outstanding individuals nominated for awards at the Hort Connections Gala Dinner 2026.

Congratulations to those recognised among this year’s nominees, and to Francis Tedesco (Center West Exports) recipient of the Exporter of the Year Award, sponsored by Hort Innovation.

A special congratulations also to our Chair, Julie Bird, who was recognised for her contribution to Australian horticulture and named the recipient of the NAB Women in Horticulture Award.

Thank you

Thank you to everyone who joined us for another successful Hort Connections.

Hort Connections 2026 demonstrated the value of bringing industry together, not just to share ideas, but to see how they’re being applied in practice.

As Principal Partner, we’re proud to work alongside AUSVEG and IFPA to support the conversations, demonstrations and shared learning that continue to strengthen Australian horticulture.

We look forward to seeing you all in Melbourne next year.