Citrus Growers encouraged to Review, Respond, Relaunch

Citrus Growers encouraged to Review, Respond, Relaunch

20 February 2023

After facing some of the most challenging years in recent history, Australian citrus growers will be encouraged to ‘Review, Respond and Relaunch’ at the 2023 Citrus Australia Market Outlook Forum.

This year’s annual Forum, sponsored by edp Australia, will be held in Mildura on March 7-9.

Citrus Australia CEO Nathan Hancock said the speaking program has been tailored to provide growers with the latest market intel on global trends impacting supply costs, likely influences on domestic and global markets, competitor analysis and international requirements on sustainability.

“We’re excited to bring international speakers to the Murray Valley, it’s easily accessible from Queensland and Western Australia and driving distance from the Riverland and Riverina. In our businesses market intelligence is what creates the upper hand.

“Tough seasonal conditions, supply chain disruption and lockdowns over the past three years have placed stress on the majority of Australian citrus businesses.

“We encourage all growers to attend the Forum and utilize this valuable information as they respond to the challenges of the past three years and take advantage of the opportunities ahead.”

International keynote speakers include Paul Hardman, from South Africa’s Citrus Research International, who will provide insight into the factors behind the aggressive growth of the South African citrus industry, one of Australia’s southern hemisphere competitors.

Charif Cristian Carvajal, Chair of the Southern Hemisphere Association of Fresh Fruit Exporters, will provide an overview of Southern hemisphere production and export trends, and how this could shape opportunity for Australian exports.

Mr Hardman will also provide an overview of how global sustainability measures are impacting growers, packers and brand owners in the southern hemisphere, and how they are responding.

David Porta, of Spanish packaging company, Giro, will share insights into the latest sustainability trends in packaging from Spain, in light of increased demands from consumers.

Pictured (left to right): Citrus Australia CEO, Nathan Handcock, Mildura Regional Development CEO, Brett Millington, and Citrus Australia Chair, Richard Byllaardt.  

The two-day Forum will provide ample opportunity for growers and marketers to network with their peers, converse directly with all speakers, and assess the latest in farm management technology from exhibitors.

“Peer to peer networking is beneficial to every business and I encourage everyone to make the trip to Mildura to take advantage,” Mr Hancock said.

“Growers relished the opportunity to network with their peers from around the country at our forum on the Sunshine Coast last year following the removal of Covid lockdowns.”

The Market Outlook Forum will be held at Willow & Ivie, and the Hall of Fame Gala Dinner on Wednesday, 8 March, sponsored by E.E. Muir & Sons, will be held at the Magenta Woolshed at the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens.

“We’re showing Mildura in a whole new light and we can’t wait to share it with everyone,” Mr Hancock said.

Click here to register.