The Costa Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) conference and trade exhibition, to be held at the Star Casino on the Gold Coast, from July 7 - 10, 2019, offers a huge line-up of sessions covering in hydroponic, greenhouse, aquaponic and high-tech growing systems.
This biennial national industry event is expected to attract growers, industry experts and allied trade suppliers throughout Australasia, Asia, Europe and North America. It includes a two-day technical program, specialist workshops, a trade expo and farm tours. There are also some great social events where you can make new friends and catch up with old ones.
The two-day professional development program has something for everyone.
Priva is a world-leading Dutch company that sells equipment and software for climate and process control in horticulture and for buildings. Meiny Prins, the CEO of Priva, will outline her views on the challenge of change.
Tristan Kitchener has previously held senior positions with Sainsburys (UK) and Coles supermarkets. He is now a management consultant providing advice and support along the grocery value chain. Tristan will provide some insights into changes in the retail and consumer landscape; and then lead a panel of experts looking at trends in supply chain relationships for the protected cropping sector.
Nicky Mann, PCA Chair and Nuffield scholar, will talk about her recent overseas market investigations and outline trends she sees on the horizon.
Three specialist workshops will offer delegates the opportunity to take a deep dive into some very topical issues.
Medicinal cannabis is taking off as one of the industry’s newest sectors. Emily Rigby, an experienced researcher in this field, will chair a series of presentations covering topics from the industry contest, the regulatory environment, and production systems and technology.
Threats to bees across the world make pollination a prime focus for all growers. Dr Romina Rader is a lecturer in Community Ecology at the University of New England. She’ll be leading delegates through a range of issues related to crop pollination.
The third workshop brings together a star panel of leading practitioners who will share their knowledge of integrated pest management in a hands-on session.
Navigating the hazards of local government planning and the pressures of farming on the fringe of urban centres are topical across the country. Recent scares in the melon and strawberry industries have highlighted the importance of crisis management for everyone in the industry. Robots and sensor technology are changing the face of on-farm production – and the latest information will be presented here. Understanding biosecurity risks and mitigating impacts are also vitally important, too.
More than 14 experts will present on new production techniques and technologies. One session has a particular focus on berry production. A speed-updating session will allow research students to make 5-minute presentations on their work.
Over the two days, delegates will also have an opportunity to browse the extensive trade exhibition, which includes more than 60 leading industry suppliers and partners.
On the final day, delegates will venture into the field to visit farms and production facilities on two-day trips – one headed south and west, and the other headed north to the Sunshine Coast.
All in all, an opportunity not to be missed. Check out the details and register to attend at www.pca2019.com.