It’s just over one month until Hort Connections 2026 gets underway at the Adelaide Convention Centre from Monday 1 to Thursday 4 June, and the impressive line-up of speakers continues to grow.

Hort Connections 2025 was held in Brisbane.

Hort Connections 2026 is co-hosted by AUSVEG and the International Fresh Produce Association Australia-New Zealand (IFPA ANZ) and is the biggest horticulture event in the southern hemisphere.

The trade show is already sold out with a record number of booths to feature at this year’s event. Last year in Brisbane 3,900 delegates attended and early registrations indicate strong attendance again in Adelaide this year. Those attending will hear from a world-class line-up of speakers, including:

• Ben Crowe – A globally recognised mindset and leadership coach, Ben will deliver the Hort Connections Breakfast address on Wednesday 3 June, partnered by Nutrien Ag Solutions. In conversation with a special guest, he’ll share practical insights on resilience, leadership and balancing achievement with fulfilment and performance with wellbeing.
• Jakara Anthony OAM – The dual Olympic gold medallist and Australia’s greatest skier will headline the Women in Horticulture lunch on Wednesday 3 June, joining MC and fellow Olympian Giaan Rooney for a live discussion on mindset, resilience and breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces at the highest level. This inspiring session will offer insights that resonate far beyond sport.
• Sam Beaton – The joint CEO of Cobram Estate Olives Limited, Sam brings extensive experience in business and strategy planning, financial modelling and capital management, offering valuable perspectives on driving growth and long-term success.

Visitors will also enjoy a new structure for this year’s event, designed to enhance the experience for delegates and exhibitors alike. The first day will feature tours of local farming and processing operations, while day two will be dedicated to plenary speaker sessions, the official opening of the trade show and a welcome event at the Adelaide Oval. The trade show will continue to be held over days three and four, supplemented with speaker sessions and demonstrations. Hort Connections 2026 will culminate on Thursday evening with the Gala Dinner and Horticulture Awards for Excellence.

AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote said:

“The lineup of exhibitors and speakers for Hort Connections 2026 is continuing to evolve, along with anticipation for what is shaping as a hugely important event for the horticulture industry. Over four days in Adelaide, Hort Connections 2026 will bring our industry together as we consider the current key themes, challenges and opportunities facing the sector, while keeping up with the latest technology and innovations in Australian and international horticulture.”

IFPA ANZ Managing Director Belinda Wilson said:

“Hort Connections brings together the entire horticulture industry and supply chain, from growers right through to retailers. This is about showcasing fresh produce and our essential role building a future where food is healthy, accessible and sustainably produced for generations to come. The innovation, ag-tech and opportunities for new connections are not-to-be-missed.”