SA: Improving Soil Health & Nutrition Workshop with Joel Williams
2026-04-10 15:00 - 19:00 (Australia/Adelaide) | Forster Hill Farm, 5433 Hunter Rd, Nildottie, SA, 5238, Australia
Come along to this interactive workshop out in the paddock and hear from Joel Williams…
…an independent plant and soil health educator and consultant who has worked extensively in Australia, Europe and North America where he is currently based. He has a keen interest in soil health, plant nutrition and plant and soil microbiomes and how these may support the development of sustainable production systems.
Joel has a Bachelor of Agricultural Science specialising in plant and soil dynamics and a passion for teaching and sharing a combination of scientific and practical information, and lecturing to farming audiences internationally.
This workshop will be a blend of technical and practical insights into various aspects of soil and plant health, including the prevention of soilborne diseases, soil salinity and low soil organic matter, as well as an interactive walk into the field where Joel will lead lively discussions and demonstrations out in the paddock.
Topics covered:

salinity & sodicity
soilborne disease prevention
soil moisture retention
soil organic matter…and more!

Join us for a roast dinner prepared by leading butchers at The Golden Roast, Adelaide’s spit roast catering specialists. Enjoy premium, locally sourced meats, that have been spit roasted to perfection onsite!
For more information contact Maya Wallens at maya.wallens@ausveg.com.au

VegNET 3.0 (VG21000) is a vegetable and onion industry extension program nationally coordinated by AUSVEG and funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable and onion research and development levies and contributions from the Australian Government.

QLD: Regenerating Soils: Biology, Transition & Nutrient Efficiency
2026-04-13 12:00 - 16:15 (Australia/Brisbane) | Mulgowie Farming Company, 35 Mulgowie School Rd, Mulgowie, QLD, 4341, Australia
A hands-on workshop with international soil expert Joel Williams, exploring practical and science-based strategies to improve soil health, boost productivity, and build a more regenerative farming system.
Topics include:

Soil biology and soil organic matter science: Understand the processes that support healthy, productive soils.
Soils in transition: Strategies to transition towards regenerative agriculture, and better soil health.
Integrated nutrient management: Low input strategies to improve fertiliser efficiencies and reduce input costs.
Soil Wealth ICP demonstration site field walk at Mulgowie: Managing organic nitrogen sources from cover crops to match the nitrogen demand of sweet corn.

Who this is for: This workshop is limited to 30 spots for vegetable growers and agronomists – registration is essential and growers and agronomists will be prioritised over those in the supply chain.
Bring Soil Samples & Tests: If you’re interested, bring a sample of your soil so we can discuss structure and practical ways to look for life in your soil.

Hobart: VET Workforce Networking Roundtable
2026-04-15 10:00 - 15:00 (Australia/Hobart) | TBC
As part of Stream Three of this project, a Workforce Development Framework will be created, providing a guide for employers and RTOs to work together to grow a fit-for-purpose VET workforce for their region. The framework will connect each stage of career development – from mentor to supervisor to VET educator – with practical actions, existing resources and potential partnerships. It will be designed to be adaptable to the needs of different regional, rural, and remote communities.
Stakeholders are invited to participate in co-design of the Framework by attending roundtable and networking events being held online and around the country in early 2026.
You’re invited to participate in a roundtable and networking event designed to provide opportunities to contribute to several related projects and support the development of local connections.
Employers, training providers, industry partners, business support services, local government, and community organisations are encouraged to join this vital conversation.
You’re welcome to join for the full day or just take part in sessions relevant to you. Register to secure your place, and we’ll share detailed information closer to the date.
More information: https://skillsinsight.com.au/project/vet-workforce/

Launceston: VET Workforce Networking Roundtable
2026-04-16 10:00 - 15:00 (Australia/Hobart) | TBC

NT: Nematodes: Tiny Worms, Big Soil Impact
2026-04-19 11:00 - 14:00 (Australia/Darwin) | Olive Pink Botanic Garden, 27 Tuncks Rd, Alice Springs, NT, 0870, Australia
Explore the hidden life of soil and discover how nematodes influence plant and soil health.
Guided by scientists from the Northern Territory and Queensland, participants will learn about microscopic worms in the soil, examine local soil samples under the microscope and uncover nematodes living inside plant roots.
Presented by:

Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries
Queensland Department of Primary Industries
AUSVEG

Cost: Free
Who can attend: Open to anyone (best for ages 10+)
Registration: No registration required — just come along!

MacFrut Italy
2026-04-21 - 2026-04-23 | Rimini Expo Centre, Italy
Macfrut is the international fruit and vegetable trade show where business gets juicy
The global meeting point for the entire fresh produce supply chain, bringing together producers, technology providers, and top international buyers. Three high-impact days to discover innovation, build strategic partnerships and generate real B2B opportunities — from field to table.

Northern Adelaide Plains: VET Workforce Networking Roundtable
2026-04-21 10:00 - 15:00 (Australia/Adelaide) | TBC

TAS: Yield forecasting and harvest optimisation with Polybee
2026-04-21 16:00 - 18:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Hagley Farm School, 2508 Meander Valley Road, Hagley, TAS, 7292, Australia
Come and see the latest
Polybee uses autonomous drones and AI to capture crop images and provide growers with yield forecasts, crop health data, and harvest optimisation insights through an interactive dashboard.
VegNET Tas welcomes the Polybee team to Hagley, Tasmania to showcase their technology, which is already being trialled in broccoli and spinach crops, along with protected cropping lines (tomatoes & strawberries).
What does Polybee do?
The technology captures crop data through autonomous drones and AI analysis to provide growers with:

Yield forecasts and insights on when to harvest
Crop health assessments
Plant stand counts and leaf size measurements
Data for harvest planning and resource optimisation (such as labour)
Autonomous pollination for protected cropping

Join us to find out more about how Polybee technology works and what is looks like. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions.

Agenda:
4:00pm – Check in & biosecurity boot-bath
4:15pm – Event kick off
4:20 – 5:20pm- Polybee in-field demonstration and dashboard presentation
5:20 – 5:45pm – Q&A
5:45 – 6:00pm – Event closes
6:00 – 7:00pm – Dinner & catch ups (optional)

VegNET is the national vegetable and onion industry extension program with funding from Hort Innovation using the vegetable and onion research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. VegNET Tasmania is delivered by RM Consulting Group (RMCG).

TAS: Ag Innovation Expo 2026
2026-04-22 09:00 - 16:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Hagley Farm School, 2508 Meander Valley Road, Hagley, TAS, 7292, Australia
The 12th annual Ag Innovation Expo, a showcase dedicated to agricultural machinery and technology. Experience live demonstrations in our onsite demo paddock and see equipment in action.
Engage with diverse industry groups, connect with fellow growers, and network with key players in the field. Enjoy informative talks from expert speakers and a BBQ lunch.
Don’t miss this opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and shape the future of agriculture!

Hort IQ Webinar: What does sustainability really mean to Australian fresh produce shoppers?
2026-04-22 14:00 - 15:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | https://assets-oce.mkt.dynamics.com/3fa8892d-a3bf-4985-b507-62c75951e29e/digitalassets/standaloneforms/a3cb3420-7534-f111-88b4-00224897b0bf?readableEventId=Hort_IQ_Webinar_What_does_sustainability_really_mean_to_Australian_fresh_produce_shoppers435801799#msdynmkt_trackingcontext=9c57ebf1-722c-41fb-9935-4146f4a00000&msdynmkt_prefill=mktprf4d16e4f4bd4b491ebe0c68ee454a0af6eoprf
Here’s what’s on the agenda:

How consumers define sustainability when buying fresh produce
What sustainable behaviour looks like, including waste reduction and seasonality
Packaging trade‑offs, balancing plastic concerns with freshness and food waste
Where organics fit in sustainability perceptions, and barriers to broader uptake

Practical implementations for growers and the fresh produce industry

Riverland: VET Workforce Networking Roundtable
2026-04-23 10:00 - 15:00 (Australia/Adelaide) | TBC

VIC: Irrigation Masterclass
2026-04-23 14:00 - 17:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Fresh Select, 610 Duncans Road, Werribee South, VIC, 3030, Australia
Maximising value from your irrigation system
Key topics

Salinity
Event Spray Distrubition
Cleaning
Wind

Guest speaker: Jeremy Giddings, Agriculture Victoria Mildura

QLD: Emergency plant pest readiness for northern Queensland horticulture
2026-04-23 14:00 - 17:00 (Australia/Brisbane) | Merinda Village Hotel, 13 Linley St, Bowen, QLD, 4805, Australia
What happens when a new pest comes to a growing region and how can we all be better prepared and responsive?
What you will learn

What does a new pest detection mean for your farm and region?
Who is involved in an emergency plant pest response?
What is the decision making process during a response?
Rights and responsibilities and the General Biosecurity Duty
What are the potential impacts on businesses and trade?
Owner Reimbursement Costs
How to get prepared?

The workshop will be followed by dinner.

The Vegetable industry biosecurity and business continuity strategy (VG22004) has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the vegetable research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government.

European Conference on Food Science & Technology
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-26 | Bern, Switzerland
The third edition of the European Conference on Food Science and Technology – a leading international gathering of food scientists, technologists, researchers, innovators, industry leaders, and policymakers, all dedicated to shaping the future of food.

Rethinking Materials London
2026-04-28 - 2026-04-29 | Hilton London Bankside, 2-8 Great Suffolk Street, London, SE1 0UG, United Kingdom
On April 28–29, Rethinking Materials will connect the brands, investors and innovators defining the next era of sustainable materials.
From corporate giants like Kraft Heinz, IKEA, BMW and Coca-Cola to pioneering biotech start-ups, uncover the strategies and technologies reshaping packaging, textiles, ingredients and consumer products.
Join this unique multi-sector community for targeted networking, curated deal flow, live pitches and fresh tech discovery across the value chain.

Vitafoods Europe
2026-05-05 - 2026-05-07 | Barcelona – Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain
A global meeting ground for the nutrition, health and functional food industries.
Meet nutraceutical industry experts and thought leaders, and get the chance to network with your peers from around the globe.

VicVID 2026
2026-05-07 - 2026-05-08 | Taranto Farms, 57 The Crescent, Tyabb, VIC, 3913, Australia
After the overwhelming success of VicVID 2023, AUSVEG VIC is proud to announce that VicVID 2026 will take place on 7 & 8 May 2026 at Taranto Farms in Tyabb, located on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula just 60 km south of Melbourne.
This flagship vegetable industry event will once again bring together leading growers, innovators, researchers, and service providers to showcase the latest developments in horticulture.
Delivered in partnership by AUSVEG VIC, VegNET Victoria, and Stuart Grigg Ag-Hort Consulting, VicVID 2026 promises a dynamic mix of field demonstrations, trial plots, machinery displays, and presentations across a wide range of vegetable production topics.
Attendees can expect:

Advanced seed genetics trials
Crop protection and nutrition demonstrations
Static and dynamic displays of machinery and technology
Networking opportunities with growers and suppliers

Host grower Sam Taranto, Director of Taranto Farms, said he’s looking forward to welcoming the industry to his property.

Gippsland: VET Workforce Networking Roundtable
2026-05-12 10:00 - 15:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | TBC

Perth: VET Workforce Networking Roundtable
2026-05-14 10:00 - 15:00 (Australia/Perth) | TBC

F&A NEXT Summit Netherlands
2026-05-20 - 2026-05-21 | Wageningen, Netherlands
F&A Next is about thought leadership and connecting promising startups and scale-ups to dedicated Food and Agtech investors and leading corporates. It includes two days of networking, pitching, and debating the dynamics of food and agriculture. If you are wholeheartedly committed to the need for innovation in Food and Agriculture, then make sure to join us!

Agritechnica Asia
2026-05-20 - 2026-05-22 | BITEC, Bangkok, Thailand
The premier trade fair for agricultural technology and innovation in Asia! As the leading platform for showcasing cutting-edge machinery, equipment, and solutions in the farming industry, AGRITECHNICA ASIA connects global industry leaders, innovators, and professionals under one roof with 48% international trade participants from 73 countries, it is the meeting point of our industry in Asia

VIC: Gippsland Irrigation Expo
2026-05-20 09:00 - 16:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | Sale Showgrounds, Sale Greyhound Club, Maffra–Sale Road, Sale, VIC, 3850, Australia
The Gippsland Irrigation Expo is back! This one-day event brings together the latest technologies, research, suppliers, and best practices in irrigation management.
Why attend?

See what’s new in irrigation technology and practices that can make a real difference on farm.
Learn from people who know their stuff, including researchers, suppliers, and locals sharing practical tips and demonstrations.
Connect with other irrigators, suppliers, agencies and experts who can help you find solutions that fit your farm
Take home ideas you can put into practice

Whether you’re an irrigator looking to upgrade your system, a consultant seeking the latest insights, or a supplier wanting to connect with decision-makers, the Gippsland Irrigation Expo is a premier opportunity to meet new people.

Food 4 Future – Expo FoodTech Spain
2026-05-27 - 2026-05-28 | Bilbao Exhibition Centre
Expo FoodTech is the leading food industry fair to explore innovations in automation, robotics, AI, packaging, logistics and sustainability, alongside the Food 4 Future World Summit.

Hort Connections 2026
2026-06-01 - 2026-06-04 | Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
In 2026, the entire fresh produce industry will converge at the Adelaide Convention Centre from Monday 1st June to Thursday 4th June. Through the trade show, attendees will gain exclusive access to the latest products, services, and technologies driving the horticulture industry forward.

Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar 2026
2026-06-01 13:30 - 18:00 (Australia/Adelaide) | Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
Designed for vegetable, potato, and onion growers, the Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar (AVIS) delivers expert knowledge, practical takeaways, and research-driven insights relevant to today’s industry.
Lunch, afternoon tea, and post conference canapes and beverages will be provided.
Levy paying growers can register now for grower funding to attend the Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar on Monday 1 June, as part of Hort Connections 2026 in Adelaide.
To Register for AVIS Grower Funding:

Step 1: Open the registration portal here.
Step 2: Register for a Hort Connections 2026 pass.
Step 3: Levy paying Australian growers will be eligible for the AVIS Grower Funding.

For further information or assistance please contact info@hortconnections.com.au

The Annual Vegetable Industry Seminar project (VG24003) is funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable R&D levy and contributions from the Australian Government.

Hort Innovation Impact Update
2026-06-01 15:00 - 18:00 (Australia/Adelaide) | EOS Hotel at Sky City, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
As production costs and challenges increase, it’s more important than ever to support growers with the knowledge, tools and insights they need to make informed decisions and remain viable and competitive.
Hort Connections is a place that brings all of this together. For the first time, Hort Innovation is helping more growers get there by subsidising 100 growers to attend Hort Connections in Adelaide in June through free grower tickets, along with support for travel and accommodation. This is so they can access the research and development insights and capability‑building opportunities that inform confident, practical decisions on farm in a fast‑changing environment.
Central to this opportunity is the inaugural Hort Innovation Impact Update – an event designed specifically for growers that will take place the afternoon before Hort Connections – and registrations are now open!
Hosted by Hort Innovation, the Impact Update will bring together growers, researchers and industry leaders to share practical insights, real‑world outcomes and examples of innovation that are helping growers navigate current challenges and plan for the future.
Across the three‑hour event, growers will:

Hear directly from growers who are turning R&D into real‑world outcomes
Explore practical tools and innovations they can apply on farm
Take part in open discussion and knowledge exchange
See how Hort Innovation’s investments are delivering impact from DNA to plate

Food Matters Live London
2026-06-03 - 2026-06-04 | Olympia International Convention Centre, London, United Kingdom
The world-class event series where food takes shape – uniting insight, innovation and unforgettable experiences for the industry’s NPD, technical and nutrition professionals.

Food Innovate Amsterdam
2026-06-09 - 2026-06-10
Join leading food innovators, professionals, and experts as they discuss the newest innovations, technologies and developments in the industry. Our key speakers come from some of the largest companies to share their best practices, regulations, and techniques.
Those in attendance will benefit from a packed two-day programme, where they will explore the critical issues with the industry’s best speakers. There will be plentiful networking times, expect to meet fellow industry leaders, enabling meetings, connections, and business growth.

Bridge2Food Europe
2026-06-09 - 2026-06-11 | Copenhagen, Denmark
Bridge2Food Europe 2026 is set to take place in Copenhagen, with a renewed focus on what really defines success in next-generation food innovation: products that consumers genuinely want to buy, eat, and come back for.
From taste and texture to functionality, processing, scale-up, nutrition, and cost, we’ll tackle the hard topics that stand between innovation and commercial reality.

GreenTech Amsterdam
2026-06-09 - 2026-06-11 | RAI Amsterdam
Join us on 9 – 10 – 11 June 2026 at RAI Amsterdam for the #1 horticulture technology event! Industry professionals from all over the world come together to connect, network, share knowledge and do business.
GreenTech Amsterdam offers you a complete overview of the products and services for growing the best crops in your greenhouse.
