Hort Connections 2018 was opened in style on the night of Monday 18 June, kicking off with a massive Welcome Reception attended by over a thousand local and international delegates.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Senator the Hon. Anne Ruston formally opened the event, delivering a speech that welcomed the spirit of collaboration behind Hort Connections 2018 and encouraging more industry bodies to come on board.

The Welcome Reception marked the start of the three-day conference, and officially opened the massive Trade Show. With over 300 booths on the floor of the Trade Show, which was sponsored by FMA/CMAA representing Australia’s fresh produce markets, this year’s exhibition offered attendees a huge range of business opportunities, and the full three days of the Trade Show delivered huge value to delegates.

Earlier in the day, Hort Innovation coordinated a successful meeting of vegetable and potato levy payers to discuss the new Hort Innovation project funding model. The meeting also analysed the new vegetable industry Strategic Investment Plan and detailed the breakdown of current investments as they align to the plan, helping attendees gain a broader understanding of how project investment is helping the industry achieve its goals.

We’ve brought together some photos from the Welcome Reception and the first night of the Trade Show below, so if you couldn’t come along, be sure to take a look!

This post appeared in the AUSVEG Weekly Update published 21 June 2018. Subscribe to the Update using our online form to receive the latest industry news in your inbox every week!

Image gallery: Hort Connections 2018 Welcome Reception and Trade Show

  • Senator Ruston addresses the Welcome Reception.
  • Senator Ruston describes the benefits of a short speech.
  • A delegate admires the produce on display.
  • The Hort Connections Trade Show offers something for everyone's business.
  • Toby Travanner interviews Angelo Demasi about the benefits of Australia's central markets.
  • AUSVEG Deputy Chair Belinda Adams and Chair Bill Bulmer enjoying the night.
  • Hort Connections brings delegates and businesses closer together.
  • The Bayer booth at the Trade Show offers delegates the chance to win a trip to Berlin Fruit Logistica.
  • The FMA/CMAA fresh produce display was a centrepiece of the Trade Show.
  • The AUSVEG team was on hand at our booth to chat to growers about our industry work.