What was it all about?

This project delivered a national innovation and adoption program to support Australian macadamia growers through a period of rapid industry growth and increasing production and market pressure. It strengthened grower capability, improved access to practical and timely information, and better connected research with on farm decision making. 

The Australian Macadamia Society delivered a coordinated extension, engagement and industry development program across all major growing regions. Resources were designed to be practical and aligned to the production cycle, so information reached growers when it was most relevant. Outputs included MacAlerts, fact sheets, videos, podcasts and Bulletins, along with field days, workshops, MacGroup meetings and major industry events. The project also supported coordination of research and development, improving visibility of current research and helping translate outcomes into practical guidance for growers.

The project responded to a changing industry environment. Rapid expansion in planted area, rising global supply, declining farm gate prices, higher input costs, labour pressures and challenging seasonal conditions placed increasing strain on orchard productivity and profitability. These pressures highlighted gaps in data, advisory support and coordination between research and extension, as well as the need for stronger industry wide capability and alignment.

As a result of the project, growers improved their knowledge, confidence and decision making across key areas such as kernel quality, pest and disease management, spray practices, orchard management, sustainability and use of industry data. The industry now has stronger extension networks, more consistent and reliable data, and better alignment between research priorities and on farm needs. These outcomes will support improved productivity, better risk management and a more resilient and competitive Australian macadamia industry into the future.