Growing strong

SUMMERFRUIT UPDATE

Growing strong

By Richard Palmer : Chief Executive Officer, Summerfruit NZ

The Summerfruit NZ conference is considered a highlight in the industry’s winter calendar. It is usefully planned for the time of year when growers have finished the previous season’s tasks and before they embark on next season’s projects – an ideal time to get away on holiday or to a conference. This year, the unfortunate timing clash with overseas holiday plans may not be so much of an issue – if we can take a silver lining from our current border closure.

After the disappointment of having to cancel last year’s conference, we’re excited to be back in Hawke’s Bay with growers, exporters and marketers who are more than ready to come together, reflect and celebrate success in a changing world.

2020–21 was a season like no other before it. Our theme, Growing strong – Success in a changing world, focuses on increasing resilience across a broad platform: our orchards, the environment and personally. In an everchanging world we need to adapt, collaborate and innovate more than ever to reach the level of success we’re aiming for.

Conference format

Our 9–10 June conference begins on Wednesday afternoon at the Napier War Memorial Centre on Marine Parade with an address from our keynote speaker followed by our Annual General Meeting. The day ends with networking drinks at the Faraday Centre where we’ll get a hit of nostalgia with their exhibitions show-casing technology from the ‘good old days’ including a dental surgery. A full day’s conference is planned for Thursday, during which local and international speakers will present sessions on climate change solutions, labour shortage challenges, international trade and trends. The evening Conference dinner ends on a high note with awards and entertainment.

Kick the dirt

Friday morning has been set aside as an optional extra for those keen to Kick the dirt. We’ll travel a little bit around the region and visit examples of modern horticulture practices that are helping businesses build resilience to 21st century challenges and ensure they won’t be left behind in a changing world.

Exhibition and sponsorship

Without the generous assistance of our sponsors, it would not be possible to book the calibre of speakers and venues we aim for each year. We are very grateful to MG Marketing who have been our platinum sponsor since 2017. It’s always fantastic to have their backing. Napier War Memorial Centre is a great venue for sponsors, exhibitions and outdoor displays, and we have already had loads of enquiries from organisations wanting to show their support for the summerfruit industry.

If you are interested in showcasing your products and services directly to the summerfruit industry, our Exhibition and Sponsorship Opportunities brochure can be downloaded directly from our website www.summerfruitnz.co.nz or contact conference organiser Karen McLean at karen@cml.net.nz or on 06 833 7440.