Hort Innovation

Amid ongoing workforce challenges, the horticulture sector is taking a bold step forward with a $52M grower-designed program set to revolutionise productivity in protected cropping. Delivered through Hort Innovation and led by Applied Horticultural Research, the program focuses on cutting-edge automation for pollination, spraying, harvesting, and packing, offering estimated labour savings of up to 90%. 🚜💡 With over $20M contributed directly by growers, this program is truly by growers, for growers. It will drive advancements in sustainability, agronomy, energy efficiency, and workforce skills, ensuring a profitable and resilient future for the sector. Through Hort Innovation Frontiers, this industry-driven initiative underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability for the future of Australian horticulture. 🌱 Learn more in the comments ⬇ #HortInnovation #horticulture #protectedcropping #AusAg

Last week, at our AGM, we reflected on a record year of growth, innovation, and impact under our five-year strategy, this included delivering $5.60 in return for every $1 invested, and investing $720M across our R&D and marketing programs. Voting members re-elected Bob Mullins and elected Cameron Mackay to the Hort Innovation Board, with Julie Bird continuing as Chair and John Said stepping into a new role as Deputy Chair.  Horticulture is Australia’s fastest-growing and third-largest agriculture sector, driven by the ingenuity and dedication of our growers. Together, we’re building a brighter future for Australian horticulture, where innovation, collaboration, and sustainability are at the heart of what we do. #HortInnovation #horticulture #AGM2025 #futurefocused Brett Fifield

🌟 Calling all future agriculture leaders! 🌟 Hort Innovation is proud to support the 2025 AgriFutures Australia Horizon Scholarship, empowering the next generation of innovators in Australian agriculture. If you’re a full-time university student entering the final two years of an agriculture-related or STEM degree in 2025, and you’re passionate about shaping the future of Australia’s rural industries and communities, we want to hear from you! The scholarship provides access to industry placements, networking opportunities, and professional development, allowing you to connect with leaders in the agricultural sector and kickstart your career. Our commitment to programs like this reflects our dedication to fostering talent, driving innovation, and securing a bright future for our industry. Ready to take the next step in your career? Applications are open until January 10, 2025. 👉 Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/gMhkdtyf Bianca Cairns #HortInnovation #horticulture #futureleaders #agriculture #HorizonScholarship #futurefocused

It is with great pride that we celebrate Dr. Jo Luck’s incredible achievements, as she has been awarded the Biosecurity Commendation Certificate for outstanding contribution, leadership, and collaboration at the 2024 Australian Biosecurity Awards. Jo’s remarkable 35-year career in science exemplifies dedication, innovation, and leadership. From her early work in fisheries to her pivotal role as Program Director of the Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative (PBRI), Jo has consistently contributed to safeguarding Australia’s agricultural future. 🥬🔬 Since 2017, Jo has led the PBRI, uniting seven plant RDCs and government agencies to address critical biosecurity challenges. Under her guidance, the initiative has coordinated over $65M in cross-sectoral investments, delivering key successes such as:  🌱 Boosting national diagnostics: Enhancing pest detection across plant sectors.  🌱 iMapPESTS: Revolutionising pest surveillance through cutting-edge technology.  🌱 Environmental DNA (eDNA): Developing novel tools for pest detection, like the brown marmorated stink bug. Jo’s passion for mentoring and inclusivity has left an indelible mark, fostering the next generation of biosecurity leaders and forging global partnerships to amplify Australia’s impact on plant health. Congratulations, Jo! Your vision, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to biosecurity safeguard not only Australian horticulture but also the future of global agriculture. Your work truly embodies the spirit of innovation and excellence that drives the plant sector forward. 🌏✨ #HortInnovation #horticulture #BiosecurityAwards2024 #biosecurity

Introducing the world’s first horticulture-focused venture capital fund 🌱🍎    In partnership with Artesian (Alternative Investments), we're investing directly in promising startups to fast-track innovative technologies from concept into the hands of growers. This bold step is about delivering real solutions to real challenges, such as rising farming costs, labour shortages and declining fruit and vegetable consumption in Australia.  By investing in fresh ideas and cutting-edge technologies, we're reimagining the future of horticulture to ensure the industry’s resilience and long-term success 🚜  We thank all the growers, innovators and industry stakeholders who worked with our team to reach this exciting milestone.  Together, we’re growing a stronger, more sustainable future for Australian horticulture.   Find out more at www.frontiers.au.    #HortInnovation #Horticulture #HortInnovationFrontiers #VentureCapital #AustralianGrown #Growers #Startups AUSVEG Henrik Christiansen Polybee Georgia Beattie Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry International Fresh Produce Association Australia & New Zealand Ben Hoodless Gavin And Bernie Devaney Anthony Kachenko Brett Fifield Karina Keisler Kelly Vorst-Parkes Jesse Reader Nicole Thurston Julie Bird

In collaboration with the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA), we have launched Hands-on Horticulture, a new program that brings the world of fruit, veggies, and nuts into primary school classrooms across Australia. 🌱 The practical, curriculum-aligned program immerses F-6 students in hands-on science activities that explore where their food comes from, promotes the health benefits of fresh produce, and sparks interest in horticulture as a future career path. Key resources include:  🌟 Interactive science investigations exploring Australian-grown produce  🌟 Teacher-led lessons and “Take Me Home” extension activities for at-home exploration  🌟 Practical projects like seed germination, plant transpiration, and creating veggie-powered circuits for students to experiment with 🐝 Discover how Hands-on Horticulture is inspiring a new generation’s love for fresh produce and sustainable careers in the field. Access the resources in the comments. #HortInnovation #horticulture #education #futurefocused #sustainability #STEM 

Did you know that a handful of nuts daily could be boost your heart health? New research, brought to you by Nuts for Life through Frontiers, has confirmed the cholesterol-lowering power of nuts. A review of over 20 years of data from 113 clinical trials shows that eating even a small number of nuts daily (as little as 5g) can reduce cholesterol, a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The findings are clear: nuts like almonds, macadamias, and pistachios aren’t just delicious, they’re a game-changer for heart health. With cardiovascular disease affecting 4.5 million Aussies, small dietary changes, like snacking on nuts, are an easy way to support overall health. What’s your favourite way to snack on these nutrient-packed heart heroes? #HortInnovation #horticulture #Frontiers #NutsForLife #nutrition #nuts Jacqui Simpson

Cherry season has arrived, and we’re sharing the joy at home and across the world! In partnership with Cherry Growers Australia, our new marketing campaign is inspiring 13 million Aussies to make cherries the star of their summer moments. Through paid social media, state-based promotions, and in-store education programs in Woolworths and independent retailers, we’re making it easier than ever to enjoy these seasonal treasures. 🍒 On the global stage, we’re showcasing the luxury of Australian cherries with retailer programs in Vietnam, exciting launch events across China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, and elegant gift boxes that highlight their premium quality. #HortInnovation #horticulture #marketing #cherries #Australiancherries

Today, we’re celebrating Australia’s vibrant horticulture industry and the people who make it thrive. ‘Grow You Good Thing’ highlights the dedication of our growers who bring world-class fruit, nuts, vegetables and greenlife to tables and homes across the nation and beyond. 🍇🍌🥕🥬 At Hort Innovation, we’re proud to support the innovation and resilience of this vital sector. Every day, Aussie growers embrace sustainable practices, adopt new technologies, and set leading standards in quality and safety to meet the needs of consumers locally and globally. To everyone in Australian horticulture, from the fields to research labs and everywhere in between, thank you for your passion and commitment. Together, we’re growing a brighter future for agriculture! 🌱 #HortInnovation #horticulture #NationalAgDay #AgDayAU #growyougoodthing #AustralianAg #growers

Earlier this week, Hort Innovation joined Dairy Australia, Meat & Livestock Australia, Wine Australia, and Seafood Industry Australia in Taipei for the Taste the Wonders of Australia event. This collaborative initiative introduced Taiwan’s high-demand market to Australia’s premium, safe, and fresh produce. 🍊🍒 Insightful roundtable discussions and hands-on workshops allowed Taiwanese and Australian industry leaders to explore new trade opportunities. The event culminated in a gala dinner showcasing Australia’s best ingredients paired with premium wines, highlighting the diversity and quality of our produce. With Taiwan as Australia’s 16th largest export market, this event marks a valuable step in strengthening trade across Asia. We look forward to deepening partnerships and future growth opportunities for both nations! 🌟 #HortInnoation #horticulture #tastethewondersofaustralia #australianexport #trade  Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry AUSVEG Summerfruit Australia