Four day event will introduce a refreshed event format including tours of local farming and processing operations, a programme of speaker sessions and activations, an evening Gala Dinner and Horticulture Awards for Excellence
With under two months to go, Hort Connections 2026 is shaping up to be a crucial gathering of the entire horticulture industry and supply chain at the Adelaide Convention Centre on 1-4 June.
The biggest horticulture event in the southern hemisphere is co-hosted by Ausveg and the International Fresh Produce Association Australia-New Zealand (IFPA ANZ) offering over four days of learning, networking and connection
“During these uncertain times it’s even more important that our industry comes together to celebrate innovation and new technology and showcase our essential service providing food security to our nations,” said IFPA ANZ managing director Belinda Wilson.
”Hort Connections is uniquely placed to bring together Australia and New Zealand’s $24 million fresh produce and floral supply chain, providing important connections and creating partnerships to help all business across the supply chain grow and thrive.”
New additions to the lineup of speakers and demonstrations have been announced including the new Demonstration Lounge in partnership with Chep which will provide a dedicated space on the trade show floor showcasing live product demonstrations, technology in action and real-time solutions from across the horticulture supply chain.
Sam Beaton, joint CEO of Cobram Estate Olives will speak on the brand’s expansion into the US. Kim McDonnell, founder and CEO of the award-winning tech start-up Saveful, will share how her work is helping families make mealtimes simpler, more sustainable and more cost-effective through smarter food choices. Renowned chefs Simon Toohey, Laura Sharrad, Michael Weldon, Sarah Pound and Callum Hann will take to the Cooking Activation. They’ll share insights and live demonstrations, showcasing how they champion sustainability while creating exceptional dishes using fresh Australian fruit and vegetables.
The event will also feature the now sold out Hort Connections Breakfast in partnership with Nutrien Ag Solutions on the Wednesday morning.
“The Hort Connections 2026 speaker lineup and wider programme is fast filling with a world-class array of insightful, informative and inspiring presentations, displays and demonstrations, ensuring delegates will see and learn about the latest developments and innovations in horticulture, and the key issues and themes in the industry,” said Ausveg CEO Michael Coote. “With many challenges currently being faced across the industry and in the wider world, it is crucial that the entire horticulture sector has opportunities to gather together, and Hort Connections 2026 is the perfect platform to do precisely that.”
To enhance the experience for both delegates and exhibitors, Hort Connections 2026 will introduce a refreshed event format this year. The first day will feature tours of local farming and processing operations, followed by plenary speaker sessions on day two, alongside the official opening of the trade show and a welcome event at Adelaide Oval. The trade show will run across days three and four, complemented by a programme of speaker sessions and activations. The event will conclude on Thursday evening with the Gala Dinner and Horticulture Awards for Excellence.
