The groups believe that the 2016 Convention is set to build on the tremendous success of this year’s event, with the partnership between AUSVEG and the CMAA-FMA sure to improve on the success that resulted in over 1,400 local and international delegates converging for the biggest event on the horticulture calendar.

“AUSVEG and the CMAA-FMA are delighted to join forces on the Gold Coast to continue to build on the success that has made the Convention the premier event in Australian agriculture,” said AUSVEG CEO, Richard Mulcahy.

“The union between AUSVEG and the CMAA-FMA will allow vegetable and potato growers, as well as marketers from across Australia, to forge business networks, learn from the world’s leading industry experts and gain priceless industry insights that will strengthen the future of Australian horticulture.”

Collectively the CMAA and FMA provide an essential link in Australia’s fruit and vegetable supply chain, handling over 4 million tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables each year, which represents a value of over $7 billion. CMAA works in partnership with FMA representing Australia’s Fresh Produce Markets.

The 2016 National Horticulture Convention will be held from 23-25 June and is set to surpass the success of previous events, with even more delegates from a more diverse range of industries expected to head to the Gold Coast for the most anticipated event in Australian agriculture.

“This year’s event injected millions of dollars into the Gold Coast economy, and we are confident that even greater economic benefits will result from two of the heaviest hitters in Australian horticulture joining forces to host the Convention,” said CMAA-FMA spokesperson, Angelo Demasi.

“We are excited to come on board to jointly host the 2016 Convention, and plan to up the ante next year, with a number of esteemed presenters set to inform and inspire marketers and vegetable and potato growers, as well as a trade show showcasing the most exciting developments in Australian horticulture.”

“AUSVEG and the CMAA-FMA are extremely excited to join forces for the 2016 National Horticulture Convention, and we are in discussions with other industry groups for them to come on board and help further unite Australian horticulture,” Mulcahy said.

AUSVEG is the industry body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers. The Central Markets Association of Australia (CMAA) is the peak body representing the authorities or owners of the five central wholesale markets around Australia. Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) is the national industry body representing wholesalers and supporting businesses located at these central Wholesale markets.