The diverse and dynamic range of careers in horticulture will be on display when a group of year 11 and 12 students descend on the National Horticulture Convention at the Gold Coast on Friday 26 June.

During their attendance at the Convention, incorporating both AUSVEG and Apple and Pear Australia Ltd (APAL), students from Loganlea, Beenleigh and Noosa District State High Schools will participate in a specially designed program to showcase the career possibilities in horticulture and the opportunities that are present for young people in the industry.

“In addition to exploring the Trade Show and engaging with local and international industry representatives, the students will be attending speaker sessions featuring some of the world’s leading horticulture figures, including keynote speaker and President & CEO of the U.S Potato Board, Blair Richardson,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Callum Howarth.

“The participating students will also hear from a number of industry figures, including Managing Director and Agribusiness Recruitment Lead at Agricultural Appointments, Dr Ray Johnson and representatives from AUSVEG and APAL, in sessions designed to foster future career development and engage students in the possibilities present in the horticulture field.”

“Young people represent the future of Australian horticulture, and AUSVEG and APAL are proud to provide these keen young minds with the opportunity to learn from the industry’s leading contributors.”

“By exposing students to the biggest event in Australian horticulture, they can see the many opportunities available for a diverse and exciting career and the wide array of directions they can take to become future leaders of the industry.”

“Enrolments for agricultural courses are improving after a long period of low registrations, and the opportunities to succeed in horticulture have never been greater. Now is the time to engage with eager high school students and inform them about the benefits of being involved in such a dynamic industry,” said Mr Howarth.

“By giving students the opportunity to learn directly from leading horticulture figures from around the world and meet with industry representatives at the country’s biggest horticultural event, AUSVEG and APAL are working hard to ensure Australian horticulture has a strong, enthusiastic and profitable future.”

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

The 2015 Convention is a must for everyone involved in the horticulture industry, with over 1,400 delegates expected to descend on the Gold Coast between 25-27 June.

Discounted accommodation is also available for delegates booking through AUSVEG. To register, download the delegate brochure or register online. For more information please contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277 or convention@ausveg.com.au, or visit www.ausveg.com.au/convention.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Callum Howarth, AUSVEG Spokesperson. Phone : (03) 9882 0277, Mobile: 0432 163 300, Email: callum.howarth@ausveg.com.au