Hort Innovation and Apple & Pear Australia Limited (APAL) have initiated the Developing orchardists of the future pilot program under Hort Innovation's Frontiers investment program. This initiative is designed to offer advanced professional development for apple and pear growers in Australia, enhancing their technical and financial skills.
The program aims to prepare both current and future industry professionals to navigate the sector's dynamic challenges and opportunities. It builds upon APAL's Future Orchards extension program, aiming to foster the next generation of industry leaders.
Phil Turnbull, CEO at APAL, stated, "With the support of Hort Innovation through their Frontiers investment program, we can enhance our extension activities for apple and pear growers across Australia, extending successful programs like the Future Orchards walks and the Quality Program." He emphasized the importance of focusing on emerging talent to ensure the industry's modernization and resilience.
The program, which started on 16 September 2024 and will end on 1 September 2025, includes various components like the Future Orchards agenda, an Education Program, the Trial Incubator, and Data Measurement module. These elements are aimed at equipping growers with data-driven insights for adopting new technologies and ensuring a resilient industry.
APAL plans to deliver a comprehensive events program in August 2025 in the Goulburn Valley, including a two-day APAL Technical Symposium, leadership program, and masterclasses. An Orchard Walk Immersion Program is also part of the initiative, enhancing understanding and engagement among the next generation of orchard managers and leaders.
An international grower tour to South Africa is scheduled for June 2025, focusing on exploring innovative practices in apple and pear cultivation. The Trial Incubator will support the design and development of small-scale trials, while Data Measurement will offer tools for informed decision-making.
Dr Anthony Kachenko of Hort Innovation highlighted the collaboration with APAL to strengthen the apple and pear industry's capabilities, focusing on education, knowledge-sharing, and engagement to ensure the sector's sustainability.
The Developing orchardists of the future pilot program is set to enhance orchard profitability, fruit quality, on-farm trial viability, and technical fruit production knowledge, supporting the industry's emerging leaders.
Source: APAL