What was it all about?

From 2017 to 2022, this investment delivered communication and conference programs for the Australian almond industry.

The biennial Research and Development Forums and Australian Almond Conferences were integral events that showcased ongoing research and addressed existing and emerging issues and opportunities through the supply chain.

Through a program of presentations, expert key-note speakers, workshops, trade exhibitions and networking opportunities, these events worked to bring industry stakeholders together to share information, network and improve how they run their businesses.

Sustainability was a growing focus at the events to address the expectation of almond growers to embrace sustainable practices. Topics that were addressed included:

• Water efficiency
• Carbon footprints
• Bee welfare
• Chemical use
• How best to meet these expectations and delivers a positive end of financial year result that accounts for people, planet, and prosperity.

Australian Almond Conference (AAC)

The Australian Almond Conference was a three-day event hosted biennially that is dedicated to the Australian almond industry. The conference was the primary event for the industry, bringing together almost 600 delegates that represent 90 per cent of total Australian almond production, and 99 per cent of processing and marketing. The entire supply chain of the Australian almond industry attends the event, along with valued members of the research community, government, and major input suppliers.

In addition, many members of the Californian almond industry attended (which produce 80 per cent of the world’s almond crop), sharing their knowledge of research, production techniques and marketing. This is a valuable collaboration, and the relationship will be fostered to ensure there is a Californian presence at future conferences.

Almond Industry Research & Development Forum & Field Day

The forums featured on-site orchard tours and facilitated knowledge uptake and technology adoption. This enabled participants to enhance business enterprises and improve their business’ sustainability. 

While the project primarily focused on communicating with growers, it also targeted the entire value chain.  The structure of the program was important to facilitate information exchange between growers, researchers and the development of networks that continued to flourish post-event.