Hort Innovation invests in future leaders to drive a thriving horticulture industry

News

Publication date: July 2, 2025

Hort Innovation is proud to announce its sponsorship of three emerging leaders through the 2025 AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship program, reinforcing its long-term commitment to cultivating talent and innovation across Australia’s horticulture sector.

As the grower-owned research and development corporation for Australian horticulture, Hort Innovation is focused on building a resilient, sustainable and globally competitive industry. Supporting the next generation of horticulture professionals is central to this objective.

Brett Fifield, CEO of Hort Innovation, said the organisation’s investment in young leaders is more than scholarships - it’s about shaping the future of horticulture. “We’re not just backing students - we’re backing the future of our industry. These scholars represent the kind of forward-thinking, passionate individuals who will lead horticulture into its next chapter. Our support is a strategic investment in the people who will drive innovation, sustainability and prosperity for growers and communities across Australia.”

The Horizon Scholarship provides students with financial support, professional development, and industry placement opportunities.

Fifield expanded, stating that for Hort Innovation, the value lies in the opportunity to connect scholars with real-world challenges and opportunities in horticulture. “We want these students to experience the full breadth of our industry - from soil science and plant health to supply chains and consumer trends. By embedding them in the sector early, we’re hoping to help support them with building the skills, networks and understanding the insights they need to make a lasting impact."

The three 2025 Horizon Scholars sponsored by Hort Innovation are:

Chris Partridge, Bachelor of Agricultural Science, University of Adelaide: Raised on a grapevine nursery in South-West WA, Chris has worked across horticulture, broadacre cropping, and agricultural research. He aims to become an agronomist or researcher focused on improving farm productivity and sustainability.

Ella Wightman. Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours), University of Queensland: Ella’s passion for agriculture began on her high school farm and grew through her work with the Queensland Department of Primary Industries. She is focused on soil health and pest management, with aspirations to transform raw data into actionable insights for growers.

James Haslett, Bachelor of Science (Soil Science), University of Adelaide: Growing up on a horticultural farm in the Riverland, SA, James has developed a deep interest in soil health and its impact on plant productivity. His experience spans citrus, stone fruit, viticulture, almonds, and broadacre cropping.

Hort Innovation’s sponsorship of these scholars reflects its broader strategy to ensure the horticulture industry remains future-ready, innovative, and driven by capable leadership.

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the vegetable and onion research and development levies, contributions from the Australian Government and co-investment from AgriFutures.