Delegates at the 2015 National Horticulture Convention will have the chance to get their hands dirty when they visit some of Southeast Queensland’s leading vegetable producers and learn about soil health and the latest industry research at a Horticulture Field Day that will follow the Convention.

The Horticulture Field Day will be held on Sunday 28 June and will feature a comprehensive tour of major vegetable growing operations across Southeast Queensland, including Kalfresh, which grows, packs and markets fresh vegetables in Australia and overseas.

“The Horticulture Field Day will bring together growers from across the country to view some of the region’s leading properties to discuss research and development (R&D) and the latest growing techniques being used to maximise crop efficiency and productivity,” said AUSVEG Special Projects Coordinator Alexander Miller.

“The Field Day will provide an invaluable opportunity for industry members to establish networks, share experiences, and learn about the latest innovations in the sector.”

AUSVEG is the leading horticulture body representing more than 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers.

The Horticulture Field Day will feature a presentation from Applied Horticulture Research (AHR) CEO Dr Gordon Rogers, who will discuss the levy-funded Soil Wealth project, which conducts research into the benefits of reduced tillage farming techniques and how this can improve soil health.

Australian Organic Director Martin Meek will discuss current trends in the organic vegetable sector and give growers an insight into the organic supply chain from growing practices through to wholesale, while Ben Callaghan, Portfolio Manager – Plant Health at Horticulture Innovation Australia, will provide attendees with an update on R&D in the horticulture industry.

“The Field Day is a fantastic opportunity for growers to experience a wide variety of growing operations in the incredibly diverse Southeast Queensland region,” said Mr Miller.

“Attendees will have the opportunity to learn first-hand about the region’s farming practices and take home some innovative new ideas that they can apply to their own operations in their home states.”

“The Horticulture Field Day will not only be educational, but a valuable networking opportunity for all those attending. The day will allow growers to meet their counterparts from other areas of Australia, discuss common issues, establish important relationships with fellow members of the industry, and participate in some fascinating demonstrations by industry leaders.”

The Horticulture Field Day is free to attend but only open to those who register for the 2015 National Horticulture Convention, now incorporating AUSVEG and Apple and Pear Australia Limited. For more information on the 2015 National Horticulture Convention, visit www.ausveg.com.au/convention or contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Alexander Miller, Special Projects Coordinator – AUSVEG

Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0418 480 432, Email: alexander.miller@ausveg.com.au