Banana growers, researchers, and industry stakeholders from Australia and around the world will meet on the Gold Coast from 6-8 August to take part in the 16th Australian Banana Industry Congress.
Even though three decades have passed since Congress began (the first event was also on the Gold Coast in 1995), some key issues remain firmly in the spotlight. The 2025 event will celebrate this milestone and continue to tackle hot topics while reflecting the industry as it stands now - diverse, dynamic, and ready to embrace change.
Banana Congress is led by the Australian Banana Growers' Council and guided by a committee made up of growers and industry representatives.
Paul Inderbitzin, a grower from Lakeland in Far North Queensland, is the event's chair and encouraged anyone involved in getting Australia's favourite fruit into homes around the country to get amongst it.
"To put it simply, this one is for us," Mr Inderbitzin said. "It's driven by industry, solely focussed on bananas, and provides incredible access to latest research, innovation, grower ideas and more."
"An event of this scale is fitting for our $600 million industry, but it's increasingly rare to find so many growers, businesses, researchers from a single commodity in one space. Let's make the most of it."
This year, the Congress team is again working to deliver a dynamic program that begins with the Scientific Symposium on Wednesday, followed by the plenary program on Thursday and Friday.
Among the keynote speakers is Professor Altus Viljoen, Stellenbosch University, who brings a global perspective to the Panama TR4 and varieties discussion.
Landline legend Pip Courtney will keep the show rolling in her role as Congress MC and host a broad range of talent, including world champion athlete, doctor, television personality, and mum Jana Pittman and renowned farming succession expert John Moor (GrowMoor Biological). There'll be a few scaley surprises in the mix, including reptile expert Billy Collett.
These engaging speakers are just the tip of the iceberg. The Program Committee is currently firming up panels and speakers covering compliance, agtech, sustainability, and workforce issues.
Social events include the Banana Women's Network luncheon, Banana Ball, and even some opportunities to connect and get moving in the early morning for those who prefer to catch the sunrise rather than late nights.
More than anything, Congress offers the chance to 'be in the room' where key conversations are happening. There is plenty of time for networking, exchanging ideas, and catching up with people from across the country and around the world.
Early bird registration is now open! Visit www.banancongress.org.au
Grower members of the industry's peak body, Australian Banana Growers' Council, have access to 2x $500 registrations – a more than 50 per cent discount on standard prices designed to make the event even more accessible for growers. Partnership and exhibition opportunities are still available. A huge thank you to those who have already come on board to make this event possible.
For more information:
Amy Spear
Australian Banana Industry Congress
Tel: 0439 005 946
amy@abgc.org.au