Three peak industry bodies representing Australian berry producers are working together once again to roll out a highly anticipated conference of industry experts from across the country and abroad. 

Strawberries Australia, Australian Blueberry Growers Association and Raspberries and Blackberries Australia will proudly host BerryQuest International 2018 at the Country Club Launceston from Feb. 12-15.

The event will bring together berry growers, industry related businesses and researchers from around Australia and the world for three days of conference activity.

Conference highlights will include:

• A broad range of topics covered in plenary and breakout sessions which will provide growers with the latest information to help further develop both farming and business practices.
• Many of the topics have been selected by a panel of growers who have focussed on the issues that will be pertinent to the berry industry as it expands over the next 5 to 10 years.
• A number of conference speakers will be farmers, with berry growers from across the country willing to share their experience in a range of topics.
• A large trade exhibition with 28+ booths will also be open for two and a half days of the conference.

BerryQuest International 2018 will expose delegates to the latest innovations across a wide range of areas including innovation in growing techniques, research, pest and disease management, breeding, export development, labour, marketing and retailer/consumer trends. 

Simon Dornauf, conference committee chair for BerryQuest International 2018 says that the conference will also provide excellent business opportunities between growers, their allied trade and interested parties. 

“The opportunities to share information and network presented by the Conference are extraordinary.  Berry producers will be able to speak to and hear from suppliers about the latest innovations and technology at the dedicated Trade Exhibition, and the social events being held are where much of the ‘real business’ is done”.

Launceston has been selected as the host city due to its close proximity to berry growing areas where strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries will all be in season.  Attendees will have the opportunity to see production first hand by participating in one of the organised farm tours on the final day of the conference. 

With a combined value of around AUD$850 million dollars per annum, the Australia Berry Industry has now become one of the largest sectors within horticulture.  It is estimated that more than 20,000 people are employed directly in the berry industry, with most of the industries expanding each year. 

Registration to attend is now open and sponsorship/ exhibitor opportunities are still available.  Visit www.berryquest.com.au for more information.

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