Australia
June 26, 2015

The future of the horticulture industry is in safe hands, after more than 40 year 11 and 12 students participated in a specially designed program to highlight the career opportunities available in horticulture at the 2015 National Horticulture Convention on the Gold Coast.
 
Students from Loganlea, Beenleigh, Merrimac and Noosa District State High Schools participated in the program which showcased the dynamic nature of Australian horticulture and the breadth of opportunities available to young people looking to begin their careers.
 
“The students were able to hear from international horticultural experts at the Convention, including keynote speaker and President & CEO of the U.S Potato Board, Blair Richardson, in addition to exploring the Trade Show and engaging with local and international horticulture industry representatives,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Callum Howarth.
 
“They also had the chance to not only learn from the presentations by these illustrious horticulture figures, but also engage with growers, business owners, researchers and innovators to develop connections in the industry.”
 
“We hope that by providing them with this opportunity that we have given these keen, intelligent young Australians the foundation for a fruitful career in horticulture.”
 
“Enrolments for agricultural courses are improving after a long period of low registrations, and the opportunities to succeed in horticulture have never been greater. Now is the time to engage with eager high school students and inform them about the benefits of being involved in such a dynamic industry,” said Mr Howarth.
 
“Most of the jobs this generation will undertake, especially in horticulture, do not even exist yet. We hope that giving these bright young adults a taste of the industry has sown the seeds of innovation, which will reap benefits for the industry in decades to come.”
 
The 2015 Convention, incorporating AUSVEG and Apple and Pear Australia Limited (APAL), has attracted 1,400 local and international delegates to the Gold Coast for expert panel discussions, networking opportunities and awards recognising the hard work of leaders in Australian horticulture.
 
AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers. APAL is the industry body representing Australia’s more than 600 commercial apple and pear growers. 

Website: http://www.ausveg.com.au

Published: June 26, 2015