An international horticulture symposium focusing on irrigation and climate adaptation is being held this week at the Tatura SmartFarm in Victoria's Goulburn Valley.
The XI International Symposium on Irrigation of Horticultural Crops is taking place from 18–23 January and is hosted by Agriculture Victoria in partnership with the International Society of Horticultural Sciences. The event brings together researchers, growers, and industry representatives from multiple countries.
The symposium theme, "Acting on Water for Climate Change, Environment and Energy," examines irrigation practices and technologies aimed at improving water use efficiency and supporting horticulture under changing climatic conditions.
Program sessions cover topics including irrigation management, energy efficiency, drought response, and sustainable production practices. Delegates are also participating in discussions on protecting natural resources while maintaining horticultural productivity.
Agriculture Victoria Chief Executive Beth Jones said the symposium provides an opportunity to share research and practical experience across regions.
"The symposium provides a forum for knowledge exchange in agricultural science, including on-farm research and demonstration," Ms Jones said.
"Horticultural industries in many countries face similar challenges, and information sharing is important for ongoing resilience."
The symposium is supported by Hort Innovation as platinum sponsor, with additional support from ICT International, CropX, Greater Shepparton City Council, Goulburn-Murray Water, and Sentek.
The Tatura SmartFarm is one of five Agriculture Victoria SmartFarms located across regional Victoria. The site focuses on horticultural research areas including orchard systems, irrigation, climate adaptation, ag-technology, and pest and disease management. The SmartFarms network is linked with the AgriBio Centre for AgriBiosciences in Bundoora and supports applied research for the agriculture sector.
Source: agriculture.vic.gov.au
