Hort Connections 2025 has been run and done – and the 2026 event has been set for Adelaide.
By the time the national showcase wrapped, organisers said 3900 delegates and about 1000 growers from Australia, New Zealand and across the globe had rolled up in Brisbane.
Hosted by AUSVEG and the International Fresh Produce Association (Australia New Zealand), with the support of Hort Innovation, the three-day convention and trade show included tours of the Brisbane markets and visits to some of south-east Queensland’s leading producers and processors.
From June 4–6 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, delegates were able to see first-hand the latest technology in the horticulture sector, learn about the latest research, product developments, and industry issues.
This was combined with inspiring addresses from speakers such as big wave surfer Mark Matthews, former Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and filmmaker Dr Chadden Hunter.
The event culminated in the National Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner, where the best and brightest in Australian horticulture were given due recognition in the Horticulture Awards for Excellence.
Nine winners represented the best in production, research, education, marketing and community involvement. As well, the awards recognised the growing role of women in all sectors of the industry and gave special recognition to the next generation.
“I congratulate all the winners of this year’s Horticulture Awards for Excellence for the contribution they have provided, and continue to provide, to Australia’s horticulture industry,” AUSVEG chief executive Michael Coote says.
“I would like to recognise all the nominees in all the awards. While there can only be one winner in each category, all the nominees have made a massive industry contribution, and I want to assure them that this has not been forgotten or ignored,” he adds.
Horticulture Awards for Excellence 2025 winners:
Syngenta Grower of the Year: Jeremy Haw, Hussey & Co, Victoria
Corteva Agriscience Young Grower of the Year: Craig Dingle, Kalfresh Vegetables, Queensland
Bayer Researcher of the Year: Penny Measham, Queensland Department of Primary Industries
Butler Market Gardens Environmental & Sustainability: Angela Candelaro, Tripod Farmers Group, Victoria
UPL Tech and Innovation: Troy Qualischefski, Qualipac, Queensland
Muirs Community Stewardship Award: Sam Licciardello, Orchard 1 Sixty, Western Australia
Hort Innovation Exporter of the Year Award: Mark Kable, Harvest Moon, Tasmania
NAB Women in Horticulture: Melita Jurgens, Vee Jay’s Kalfresh, Queensland
VISY Industry Impact: Claire McClelland, Australian Fresh Produce Alliance
Seeka Marketer of the Year Award: Sonia Gabauer, Driscoll’s Australia
