Hort Connections returns to Brisbane this year, with several key changes, including a fresh website and more streamlined processes for delegates. Australia’s biggest horticultural conference and trade show will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 6-8 June, and we’re excited to welcome delegates back to an action-packed, rejuvenated program.

This year’s conference and trade show returns to the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and follows a successful COVID-safe delivery of the event in 2021.

The theme for Hort Connections 2022 is Growing Together, which highlights the importance of unity within the horticulture industry, as well as supporting each other and building a stronger, more resilient food system to feed local and international consumers.

Hort Connections is also excited to announce several process improvements ahead of the 2022 event that have been implemented to enhance the attendee experience.

What’s new for delegates?

Hort Connections website

This is your one-stop-shop for all things Hort Connections! The website has undergone a makeover, complete with interactive web pages and easier to access forms such as registration, exhibitor and award nomination. Check it out here.

On-site improvements

The on-site registration process will become easier for delegates in 2022. The Hort Connections team has been collating feedback and working to improve check-in systems.

There will also be a re-designed Trade Show floor plan to create more networking spaces and greater ease of access for all exhibitors. You will be able to search for exhibitors and speaker sessions more easily, with information desks situated within the Trade Show.

This year’s Trade Show is sponsored by Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets.

The on-site registration process is set to become easier for Hort Connections delegates.

Key networking events return

Hort Connections 2022 will see the reintroduction of the much-anticipated Welcome Reception, which will take place on Monday 6 June at 4:30pm.

Also making a return this year is the Women in Horticulture event, and this will be joined by Diversity and Inclusion sessions. These will take place on Tuesday 7 June. Keep an eye out for further announcements about these events once details are confirmed.

Delivering value for growers

The horticulture industry has endured many challenges over the past couple of years, and Hort Connections recognises the tough times faced by growers.

In light of this, growers have the opportunity to purchase an all-access pass for the special early bird rate of $500, which includes entry to the National Awards for Excellence on Wednesday 8 June.

There will also be an exclusive grower networking event, to be held after the Trade Show Happy Hour on Tuesday 7 June. Further details will be made available to growers in the coming months.

Early bird – don’t miss out!

Early bird registrations close Monday 21 March. If you’re looking to showcase your business to the largest number of horticultural growers under one roof, exhibition booth early bird sales also close on 21 March. Click here to register.

Acknowledging horticulture’s leaders

The National Awards for Excellence will be presented at the Hort Connections 2022 Gala Dinner on Wednesday 8 June. The Gala Dinner is the capstone event of the three-day convention, and it recognises the outstanding contributions and leadership of individuals and companies to Australian horticulture.

This year’s Gala Dinner is sponsored by the Costa Group.

Award nominations are now open – click here for further details. Nominations close Friday 15 April.

The National Awards for Excellence will take place at the Hort Connections 2022 Gala Dinner on Wednesday 8 June.

Hort Connections 2022: Join the conversation!

This year, exhibitors and delegates are encouraged to use #HortCon22 when following along on social media. To keep up to date with important event announcements, you can follow Hort Connections on these channels:

Facebook: @hortconnectionsconference

Twitter: @HortCon_

LinkedIn: @hortconnectionsconference

Instagram: @hortconnections

Highlights from previous years can be found on YouTube.

Find out more

Please visit the Hort Connections website. For further enquiries, email info@hortconnections.com.au or phone 03 9882 0277.

 

Cover image: The Trade Show is a popular place to connect and network during the three-day event. Photography by Andrew Beveridge.