Hort innovation has signed a six-year agreement to support development and innovation in the horticulture industry. Signing on as Hort Connections’ Principal Convention Partner until 2031. The partnership is dedicated to continuing industry growth, leadership development, and unlocking and demonstrating new investments and innovation to the sector.  

Hort Connections, which kicks off in Brisbane today, is Australia's premier horticulture industry event run by AUSVEG and the International Fresh Produce Association Australia-New Zealand (IFPA ANZ). It is considered a must-attend event for key decision-makers across the fresh produce supply chain and due to the scale and reputation of the event, it provides a powerful platform to bring industry leaders together to learn, grow, and connect. 

Brett Fifield, CEO of Hort Innovation said Hort Connections has a significant impact, and Hort Innovation is committed to further strengthening its involvement to ensure it continues to drive leadership in the industry. 

“Hort Connections is the must-go event in Australian horticulture, actively engaging growers and industry stakeholders to foster direct communication and knowledge sharing. It offers an opportunity for growers and stakeholders to engage in discussions that drive real and positive change across the sector. 

“Together with AUSVEG and IFPA ANZ we hope to promote the exchange of knowledge by showcasing grower levy-funded investments in research, development, and marketing, with the shared goal of presenting results, enhancing industry capabilities and encouraging growth and collaboration,” said Fifield.  

This year’s event promises a packed, three-day agenda with speakers from across the horticulture supply chain, industry booths, and side events for engaging network opportunities.  

Michael Coote, CEO at AUSVEG said the long-term partnership will have a major positive impact on the horticulture sector, as well as the future evolution of Hort Connections. 

“Hort Innovation plays a crucial role in the horticulture industry through investment in research, development and marketing programs that benefit Australia’s fresh produce growers, and we welcome this ongoing support for Hort Connections,” he expanded. 

“Building on Hort Innovation’s previous long-standing commitment to Hort Connections, this partnership will ensure the event continues to feature the latest research and innovation for growers, at a time when exposure to productivity-enhancing advances and initiatives is critical to the long-term viability of the sector.” 

Belinda Wilson, Managing Director of IFPA ANZ added: "This long-term commitment from Hort Innovation not only strengthens Hort Connections as the leading event in our sector but also signals a shared commitment to driving transformation across the entire fresh produce supply chain. IFPA ANZ is proud to partner in building capability, fostering innovation, and showcasing the world-class work of Australia’s growers and horticultural businesses. Together, we are investing in the future of the industry." 

Hort Connections 2025 is on at the Brisbane Convention Centre from 4-6 June. To find out more about the event head to: https://hortconnections.com.au/