The inaugural Australian Citrus Congress will focus on building a profitable future for the sector. 

Hosted by Citrus Australia at the picturesque Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort on 5-7 March 2024, the event will bring together experts from across the global citrus industry.

The 2024 congress marks the start of a new-look annual event, combining Citrus Australia’s popular market outlook and technical forums.

The theme for 2024 is Driving Profitability - Research, Connection and Direction.

Citrus Australia chief executive Nathan Hancock said the industry has faced some challenges on the back of Covid and rising input costs, trade impacts and some production issues.

“We are now looking at a more stable trading environment, but it’s crucial we drive profitability going forward.

“This new event promises to deliver the insights, connections and vision to help build that profitable future,” Mr Hancock said.

Program

The congress will bring together experts from the global citrus industry for an exhibition and multi-track conference program March 6-7. 
A biosecurity symposium, welcome event and Citrus Australia’s 2024 AGM will be held March 5.

The congress’ gala dinner, which includes the presentation of Citrus Australia’s annual awards, takes place March 6.

An optional study tour in the Bundaberg region will be held March 4, interested delegates will need to make their own way to Bundaberg however transport will be provided for the return back to the Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort.

Insights

The conference program for the Australian Citrus Congress 2024 is beginning to take shape, with a key focus on global trends and new research to advance the industry.

US-based Chris Cockle is vice president of sales – imports and exports at Wonderful Citrus, one of North America’s leading grower-packer-marketers of fresh citrus.

Mr Cockle will provide an outlook for Australian citrus exports along with discussing global opportunities and challenges for the future.

The biosecurity symposium will focus on huanglongbing (HLB) disease and will provide members with further knowledge and tools to assess the risk this exotic disease poses to operations.

Attendees will also learn about how a detection of an exotic citrus pest or disease would be managed in Australia under existing emergency plant pest response arrangements.

Confirmed speakers for the biosecurity symposium include US-based Nate Jameson of Brite Leaf Nursery and Etienne Rabe of Wonderful Citrus.

Topics for discussion will be citrus canker, HLB and Asian citrus psyllid in California.

Entry to the biosecurity symposium is free for registered congress delegates, exhibitors, sponsors and speakers.

“This new event promises to deliver an exciting and interactive program to help build that future.

“Whether you’re interested in exhibiting, sponsoring, speaking or attending as a guest, we look forward to welcoming you to the Australian Citrus Congress in 2024 and beyond,” Mr Hancock said.