The 3rd International Cucurbit Symposium was held on 11-16 September 2005 at Townsville and was attended by 130 delegates from all industry sectors. Scientists from 30 countries participated in this symposium and shared their experience and expertise with around 140 delegates at the Australian melon industry conference which was held at the same time. The latest information and developments in all facets of cucurbit research, growing and marketing was presented at the symposium.