Two of horticulture’s most successful women are set to inspire attendees at the Women in Horticulture: Taste of Success event during the 2015 National Horticulture Convention, Trade Show and Awards for Excellence, incorporating AUSVEG and Apple and Pear Australia Limited (APAL) on Saturday 27 June.

APAL Chair Dr Michele Allan and innovative Tasmanian potato grower Susie Daly will address attendees at the highly anticipated event which celebrates the vital role women play in the Australian vegetable, potato, apple and pear industries.

“Dr Allan is a proven leader not just in horticulture, but also in wider agriculture and business. As a prominent figure in the industry, she will be able to give key insights into the indispensable roles that women play in Australian horticulture,” said AUSVEG Manager – Events and Marketing Lauren Winterbottom.

“Susie Daly, having transformed her potato growing operation using innovative and creative production practices, will also inform and inspire attendees.”

“AUSVEG and APAL are proud to have two of horticulture’s most dynamic women speaking at this event as we celebrate the significant contributions that women make to the industry.”

AUSVEG is the leading horticulture body representing more than 9,000 Australian vegetable and potato growers. APAL is the industry body representing Australia’s more than 600 commercial apple and pear growers.

Proudly sponsored by AUSVEG Strategic Partner Steritech, the event, to be held at the Cedar Creek Winery at the base of the picturesque Mount Tamborine, recognises the ever-important role women play in the traditionally male-dominated sector.

In the vegetable, potato, apple and pear industries women often play vital roles as packing shed, nursery, financial, administrative, HR and marketing managers. Without their input, fruit and vegetable production businesses would not thrive, and recognising their contribution showcases the many ways women can be successful in horticulture and hopefully encourage more to be involved.

“The event celebrates mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, workmates, managers and owners who hold our industry together, often running entire businesses while juggling other commitments such as their families or higher education courses,” said Ms Winterbottom.

“The outstanding achievements from the industry’s leading women over the past 12 months will also be recognised with the Steritech Women in Horticulture Award at the 2015 National Awards for Excellence, which will celebrate the brightest female achievers from the Australian vegetable, potato, apple and pear industries.”

To attend the Women in Horticulture: Taste of Success event, or any of the other events at the 2015 National Horticulture Convention, Trade Show and Awards for Excellence, please register online at www.ausveg.com.au/convention or contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:  Lauren Winterbottom, AUSVEG Manager – Events and Marketing,

Phone: (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0439 386 049, Email: lauren.winterbottom@ausveg.com.au