Speakers
Applications are now closed! We looking forward to announcing our final selection of speakers to Hort Connections 2025
Hort Connections always delivers a diverse and educational array of speakers who present on a wide range of industry topics. Browse the list of confirmed speakers below and stay tuned for upcoming speaker announcements.
GIAAN ROONEY
Master of Ceremonies,
Hort Connections
Giaan Rooney’s memorable smile, natural beauty and ability to engage are almost trumped by her enormous energy for work. An adept speaker and presenter, Giaan is a person of enormous talent and professionalism.
ALISON BLANSHARD
State Business Banking Executive (QLD),
NAB
She worked her way up through the ranks in a range of roles and locations including in markets and foreign exchange in Sydney, and Business Bank Executive for the Coffs Harbour and Clarence Valley region in NSW.
SENATOR THE HON ANTHONY CHISHOLM
Assistant Minister for Agriculture
Anthony is also focused on fighting for regional Queensland and was appointed the Assistant Minister for Agriculture in July 2024.
BELINDA WILSON
Managing Director,
IFPA ANZ
Belinda Wilson is the Managing Director of IFPA ANZ, representing a $24 billion fresh produce industry. A governance and advocacy expert, she has led policy reform, sustainability initiatives, and industry innovation across fresh produce, seafood, and membership organisations. She is a passionate advocate for food security, regulatory efficiency, and industry-led growth.
DR BRUCE SEARLE
Crop Physiologist,
Plant & Food Research
Dr Bruce Searle, leading the Field Crops Physiology team at Plant & Food Research, is a crop systems scientist with a special interest in sustainability of vegetable cropping systems.
CARL LARSEN
Associate,
RMCG
Carl is a socio-environmental scientist with 15 years’ experience in planning, delivery & evaluation of agriculture & natural resource management programs, integrated water management, climate change & stakeholder engagement.
CAROLINE BARRETT
Director - Primary Industries,
GS1
Caroline Barrett is the Director of Primary Industries at GS1 Australia, where she drives initiatives to improve traceability and supply chain transparency across the agricultural sector.
CATRIONA ROWNTREE
Host,
Getaway
Catriona Rowntree is ‘Australia’s Most Travelled Woman’ after leading Australia’s favourite and longestrunning travel and lifestyle program, Getaway, for more than 27 years triumphantly also becoming one of the longest-running presenters for a single program.
DR. CHADDEN HUNTER
Founder & Director,
Chadden Hunter Films
A wildlife biologist and filmmaker, Dr. Chadden shares thrilling stories and breathtaking footage to inspire leadership, resilience, and storytelling for change.
CHARLES SIMONS
Chief Sales Officer,
BioScout
After completing studies in Viticulture at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, Charlse explored vineyards and wineries across the globe. Over the years, his dedication and expertise have garnered recognition, including prestigious titles from around the world.
COLIN DORBER
Deputy Chairman, CEO and Managing Director,
The Lockyer Valley Fruit & Vegetable Processing Co
Founding director of Lockyer Valley Fruit & Vegetable Processing Co. Ltd, and has spent 14 years lobbying, negotiating, advocating and promoting the building of the cannery.
DR. DAVID HUGHES
Emeritus Professor of Food Marketing,
Imperial College London
A global expert in food industry trends, agribusiness, and retail, with experience across multiple continents.
DR DAVID MANKTELOW
Business Owner,
FApplied Research and Technologies
Dr Manktelow has spent over 30 years’ in research and extension of sustainable agrichemical use and disease and pest management.
DR DJIN GIE LIEM
Associate Professor,
Deakin University
Dr. Djin Gie Liem is an Associate Professor in Sensory and Consumer Science at Deakin University. He serves on the Hort Innovation Strategic Advisory Panel for Vegetables (Post-Farmgate), and is an Executive Editor of the journal Appetite.
DONNA LUCAS
Principal,
RMCG
Donna is an agricultural consultant with experience in business management, research and extension. She is adaptable with an ability to contribute to projects at a strategic level.
ELAD MARDIX
CEO and Co-founder,
Clarifresh
Elad is the CEO and Co-founder of Clarifresh, the world’s first AI-powered Quality Management software for the Fresh Produce industry.
FIONA WILHELM
Founder,
Wilhelm Group
Fiona Wilhelm is passionate about helping organisations and individuals future-proof themselves in an age of rapid change.
GAIL WOODS
Special Projects & Advisor,
Fresh Markets Australia
Gail has worked on behalf of the wholesalers for over a decade, as General Manager for Brismark and General Manager of FMA, and now working with FMA in a Special Projects and advisor capacity.
DR GORDON ROGERS
CEO,
Applied Horticulture Research
Gordon is CEO of Applied Horticultural Research and an adjunct Professor at the University of Sydney. He specialises in applied research and communicating practical, profitable solutions to producers.
IVOR GAYLARD
COO & Co-Founding Director,
SWAN Systems
Ivor Gaylard has over 35 years in irrigated agriculture, including 15 years managing large-scale farming in Zimbabwe where he grew a variety of both broadacre and horticultural crops.
JAMES NILSSON
National Director - Rural & Agribusiness,
Colliers New Zealand
James Nilsson is the National Director of Rural & Agribusiness at Colliers New Zealand, leading a nationwide team focused on rural property transactions and valuations.
JANE MULLER
Safe Trade Co-Lead,
CSIRO
Jane builds connections between CSIRO researchers and government and industry stakeholders to translate science into solutions that grow market access, protect biosecurity and enhance the sustainability of Australia's horticulture industries.
JANE SIEBUM
Chief Executive Officer,
Freshcare
ane Siebum joined Freshcare in early 2021 and is a veteran of the non-profit and advocacy sector. Her extensive experience in IT Project Management, has fostered Jane’s commitment to exploring emerging technologies which help all Australian producers meet Freshcare certification.
JEMMA O'HANLON
Chief Executive Officer & Director,
Foodwatch
Jemma O’Hanlon is a keynote speaker, consultant and one of Australia's most prominent media dietitians. On a mission to make nutrition easy to digest, Jemma is a recognised expert across multiple platforms.
JESSE MANUEL
National Director - Agribusiness Transactions
Colliers Australia
Jesse Manuel is the National Director of Agribusiness Transactions at Colliers Australia, where he specialises in the acquisition and divestment of large-scale agricultural assets.
DR JOHN ALAWNEH
Lead Epidemiologist & Principal Scientist,
Department of Primary Industries, Queensland
Dr John Alawneh leads the Epidemiology and Data Integrity Team (EDIT) at Biosecurity Queensland, driving advancements in plant biosecurity, risk analysis, and surveillance.
JOSE MARCHETTI
Director of Business Development,
Ecorobotix
Originally from Argentina, Jose Marchetti is a Farmer, Ag Engineer and Master in Agribusiness with a successful career working on International Sales and BD.
JOSH CROSS
Business Development Manager,
Jane’s Weather
With a background spanning software, tech, and research roles, Josh joined Jane’s Weather driven by a passion for Australian-grown technology and practical innovation.
JOSH SMITH
Lead Consultant,
Caitlyn
Josh is a lead consultant and AI expert with extensive experience in generative AI, particularly its impact on the agricultural industry.
THE HON JULIE BISHOP
Former Minister for Foreign Affairs & Chancellor,
Australian National University
The Hon Julie Bishop is the former Minister for Foreign Affairs and is now the Chancellor of the Australian National University.
JULIE BIRD
Chair of the Board,
Hort Innovation
Julie currently serves as Chair of the Board, a role she assumed in November 2020. She was first elected as a Director of Hort Innovation in 2018 and re-elected in 2021.
JULIUS JOEL
Group Product Director - Celery,
G's
Julius brings 30+ years of global agribusiness expertise, from broad-acre to intensive horticulture. He'll energetically unpack G’s innovative approach to regenerative farming, tech adoption, market dynamics, and climate resilience.
JUSTINE COATES
Director,
Plus One Serve
Justine is the Managing Director of Plus One Serve - an executive leader who is passionate about making a positive difference by building sustainable futures to improve human and planetary health.
JUSTINE SCHOFIELD
Television Host,
Everyday Gourmet
Justine Schofield is a beloved TV personality and cook, best known for her long-running show Everyday Gourmet on Channel Ten. She now runs her own boutique catering business.
LAUREN JONES
Consultant
RMCG
Lauren is a consultant with RMCG who has a strong foundation in agribusiness and accounting, underpinned by a Bachelor of Business.
DR LENA ALICE SCHMIDT
Postdoctoral Research Fellow,
University of New England
Lena is a pollination ecologist with global experience spanning three continents, bridging government, industry and research to drive sustainable solutions.
LIAM O'CALLAGHAN
Editor,
Produce Plus Magazine
Liam O’Callaghan is Editor of Produce Plus Magazine, the leading publication for Australia and New Zealand’s fresh fruit and vegetable trade, published by Fruitnet.
LINA ASHMORE
Food Safety Specialist,
Intralox
Lina Ashmore joined Commercial Food Sanitation in 2023. Lina's profound commitment to food safety, recognising its pivotal role in operations, is reflected in her passion for advancing food safety practices and making a meaningful impact in the field.
MARK KIRSTEIN
Agricultural Consultant,
Omnia
Starting within agricultural research and development, Mark has worked closely with soil and has a strong understanding of what might be missing in our agricultural soils.
MARK MATHEWS
Big Wave Surfer & Keynote Speaker,
Next Wave
With a surfer's laid-back mentality and magnetic charisma, Mark has captivated audiences across the globe. Known for his epic tales and spectacular surf footage, he delves into the relationship between personal growth, high performance, and fulfillment.
MARK PULLIN
General Manager,
VEG Education
Mark is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in education, L&D, and organisational development, combines his passion for training with a deep love for the fresh produce industry to create unique solutions for horticulture businesses.
MICHAEL DOSSOR
Group General Manager,
Result Group
Michael Dossor is Group General Manager at Result Group and an expert in sustainable packaging and supply chains. He contributes to several industry councils and working groups. His focus includes 2D coding, traceability, and innovation.
MICHAEL NOON
Executive Director,
Next Rural Queensland
Michael Noon is Executive Director at Next Rural Queensland, specialising in succession planning and business advisory for farming families and rural enterprises.
DR NAOMI DIPLOCK
Research Scientist,
Applied Horticultural Research
Dr Diplock is a plant pathologist with experience in plant disease diagnostics and dieback phenomena, with a passion for helping to solve the pressing issues facing agricultural production globally.
NEIL MOODY
General Manager - ANZ Region,
Focus Insights
Neil Moody is a proven retail professional with extensive experience across analytic insights, marketing / sales strategy, execution and measurement with over 25 years in the industry having worked across Focus Insights, Nielsen, Kellogg and Yakult during this time.
NEIL RECHLIN
Partner,
NextGen Group
Neil has been front and centre in the development of both Category and Capability solutions over the past 20 years, having worked extensively with both retailers and manufacturers.
NOEL AINSWORTH
Principal Horticulturist,
Department of Primary Industries, Queensland
Noel develops and leads collaborative projects to improve sustainability in the horticulture industry, including promoting sustainability.
PASCUAL BAUSET
Marketing Manager,
Servalesa
Pascual Bauset is Marketing Manager at Servalesa, specialising in sustainable ag-tech. He focuses on biostimulants and microbials to improve farming efficiency. Pascual is committed to crop performance and environmental sustainability.
RAM KISHORE SAVANA
Farmers Time Freedom Coach,
Enable Ag
Ram Savana is founder of Enable Ag and Australia’s first Farmers' Time-Freedom Coach. He helps farmers improve work-life balance and build resilient, sustainable operations. Ram is a recognised speaker on agricultural innovation.
RAWDON BRIGGS
Head of Agribusiness - Agribusiness Transactions ,
Colliers Australia
Rawdon Briggs is Head of Agribusiness, Transaction Services at Colliers Australia, where he leads national efforts in the sale and lease of large-scale agricultural assets.
DR RYAN ORR
Senior Horticulturist,
Department of Primary Industries, Queensland
Ryan leads mango production system and plant physiology research for the Department of Primary Industries, Queensland, including the mango component of the National Tree Crop Intensification in Horticulture Program.
SACHIN AYACHIT
National Program Manager,
Fair Farms
Sachin leads Fair Farms, Australia’s only social compliance training and certification program dedicated to the agricultural sector.
SAMANTHA NORMAN
Head of Migration (East Coast),
Mapien
Samantha Norman is the Head of Migration - East Coast at Mapien, a leading independent workplace strategy firm. With nearly two decades of experience, she specialises in providing strategic immigration advice to corporate and individual clients.
SCOTT HANSEN
CEO,
APVMA
Scott is an experienced executive in the primary industries sector, bringing over 30 years of leadership across various industry and government roles.
SHANE FITZGERALD
Agronomist,
Metagen
Shane founded and runs the agronomy arm of Metagen, a company that focuses on multidisciplined approaches to plant health.
DR SHANE PHILLIPS
Research and Development Lead,
BioCentral Laboratories
Shane has been involved in polymer applications in farming systems since the early 1990’s while working as an irrigation scientist.
SHANE SCHNITZLER
Chair,
Fresh Markets Australia
Shane is dedicated to advancing the longevity and sustainability of Australia’s fruit and vegetable industry. With a profound commitment spanning over 35 years, including 13 years in retail, Shane brings a rich expertise to his leadership roles.
SHANSEL SAMI
Director,
Nielsen IQ
Shansel Sami is a Director at NielsenIQ and has worked at the company and across the FMCG industry for over 20 years.
SIDDHARTH JADHAV
Founder and CEO,
Polybee
Siddharth founded Polybee in 2019 as a spinoff venture from the National University of Singapore. Siddharth leads the company's product development and oversees business development.
SIMON TOOHEY
Television Host,
Freshly Picked
Simon Toohey is a chef and host of Channel 10’s Freshly Picked. He is known for his plant-based cooking and passion for sustainability. Through media, events, and brand partnerships, he continues to promote mindful eating and a more sustainable food future.
SU MCCLUSKEY
Special Representative,
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
As the inaugural Special Representative for Australian Agriculture, Ms McCluskey is a prominent voice to promote Australia's commitment to sustainable agriculture, the multilateral system and the principles that underpin global trade in agricultural goods and products.
THEA WALKER
Horticulture Business Consultant,
Planfarm
After completing a degree in Agribusiness at Curtin University, Thea has brought her passion for horticulture into her role as a horticultural business consultant at Planfarm.
TIM WITHERS
Marketing and Membership Manager,
IFPA ANZ
Tim Withers is the Marketing & Membership Manager for the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) in Australia and New Zealand, leading engagement across one of the region’s most vibrant and essential sectors.
TOM MCCUE
R&D Manager – Production,
Hort Innovation
Tom McCue is R&D Manager – Production at Hort Innovation, where he leads national research investments focused on improving crop production systems and accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies in Australian horticulture.
TRACIE ARMSTRONG
Program Manager of the Australian Pollination Strategy,
Wheen Bee Foundation
As Program Manager of the Australian Pollination Strategy, Tracie leads the development and implementation of a national plan to secure the future of Australia's pollination supply.
WENDY HUBBARD
Consumer Insights Manager,
Hort Innovation
Wendy Hubbard is an accomplished category and insights professional with over 20 years in the consumer goods industry.
DR BRUCE SEARLE
Crop Physiologist,
Plant & Food Research
Dr Bruce Searle, leading the Field Crops Physiology team at Plant & Food Research, is a crop systems scientist with a special interest in sustainability of vegetable cropping systems.
COLIN DORBER
CDeputy Chairman, CEO and Managing Director,
The Lockyer Valley Fruit & Vegetable Processing Co
founding director of Lockyer Valley Fruit & Vegetable Processing Co. Ltd, and has spent 14 years lobbying, negotiating, advocating and promoting the building of the cannery.
DR DAVID MANKTELOW
Business Owner,
FApplied Research and Technologies
Dr Manktelow has spent over 30 years’ in research and extension of sustainable agrichemical use and disease and pest management.
IVOR GAYLARD
COO & Co-Founding Director,
SWAN Systems
Ivor Gaylard has over 35 years in irrigated agriculture, including 15 years managing large-scale farming in Zimbabwe where he grew a variety of both broadacre and horticultural crops.
DR JOHN ALAWNEH
Lead Epidemiologist & Principal Scientist,
Department of Primary Industries, Queensland
Dr John Alawneh leads the Epidemiology and Data Integrity Team (EDIT) at Biosecurity Queensland, driving advancements in plant biosecurity, risk analysis, and surveillance.
JOSE MARCHETTI
Director of Business Development,
Ecorobotix
Originally from Argentina, Jose Marchetti is a Farmer, Ag Engineer and Master in Agribusiness with a successful career working on International Sales and BD.
DR LENA ALICE SCHMIDT
Postdoctoral Research Fellow,
University of New England
Lena is a pollination ecologist with global experience spanning three continents, bridging government, industry and research to drive sustainable solutions.
MARK KIRSTEIN
Agricultural Consultant,
Omnia
Starting within agricultural research and development, Mark has worked closely with soil and has a strong understanding of what might be missing in our agricultural soils.
DR NAOMI DIPLOCK
Research Scientist,
Applied Horticultural Research
Dr Diplock is a plant pathologist with experience in plant disease diagnostics and dieback phenomena, with a passion for helping to solve the pressing issues facing agricultural production globally.
DR RYAN ORR
Senior Horticulturist,
Department of Primary Industries, Queensland
Ryan leads mango production system and plant physiology research for the Department of Primary Industries, Queensland, including the mango component of the National Tree Crop Intensification in Horticulture Program.
SACHIN AYACHIT
National Program Manager,
Fair Farms
Sachin leads Fair Farms, Australia’s only social compliance training and certification program dedicated to the agricultural sector.
SHANE FITZGERALD
Agronomist,
Metagen
Shane founded and runs the agronomy arm of Metagen, a company that focuses on multidisciplined approaches to plant health.
DR SHANE PHILLIPS
Research and Development Lead,
BioCentral Laboratories
Shane has been involved in polymer applications in farming systems since the early 1990’s while working as an irrigation scientist.
TRACIE ARMSTRONG
Program Manager of the Australian Pollination Strategy,
Wheen Bee Foundation
As Program Manager of the Australian Pollination Strategy, Tracie leads the development and implementation of a national plan to secure the future of Australia's pollination supply.
GIAAN ROONEY
Master of Ceremonies,
Hort Connections
Giaan Rooney’s memorable smile, natural beauty and ability to engage are almost trumped by her enormous energy for work. An adept speaker and presenter, Giaan is a person of enormous talent and professionalism.
SENATOR THE HON ANTHONY CHISHOLM
Assistant Minister for Agriculture
Anthony is also focused on fighting for regional Queensland and was appointed the Assistant Minister for Agriculture in July 2024.
BELINDA WILSON
Managing Director,
IFPA ANZ
Belinda Wilson is the Managing Director of IFPA ANZ, representing a $24 billion fresh produce industry. A governance and advocacy expert, she has led policy reform, sustainability initiatives, and industry innovation across fresh produce, seafood, and membership organisations. She is a passionate advocate for food security, regulatory efficiency, and industry-led growth.
CATRIONA ROWNTREE
Host,
Getaway
Catriona Rowntree is ‘Australia’s Most Travelled Woman’ after leading Australia’s favourite and longestrunning travel and lifestyle program, Getaway, for more than 27 years triumphantly also becoming one of the longest-running presenters for a single program.
DR. CHADDEN HUNTER
Founder & Director,
Chadden Hunter Films
A wildlife biologist and filmmaker, Dr. Chadden shares thrilling stories and breathtaking footage to inspire leadership, resilience, and storytelling for change.
THE HON JULIE BISHOP
Former Minister for Foreign Affairs & Chancellor,
Australian National University
The Hon Julie Bishop is the former Minister for Foreign Affairs and is now the Chancellor of the Australian National University.
JULIE BIRD
Chair of the Board,
Hort Innovation
Julie currently serves as Chair of the Board, a role she assumed in November 2020. She was first elected as a Director of Hort Innovation in 2018 and re-elected in 2021.
JULIUS JOEL
Group Product Director - Celery,
G's
Julius brings 30+ years of global agribusiness expertise, from broad-acre to intensive horticulture. He'll energetically unpack G’s innovative approach to regenerative farming, tech adoption, market dynamics, and climate resilience.
MARK MATHEWS
Big Wave Surfer & Keynote Speaker,
Next Wave
With a surfer's laid-back mentality and magnetic charisma, Mark has captivated audiences across the globe. Known for his epic tales and spectacular surf footage, he delves into the relationship between personal growth, high performance, and fulfillment.
TOM MCCUE
R&D Manager – Production,
Hort Innovation
Tom McCue is R&D Manager – Production at Hort Innovation, where he leads national research investments focused on improving crop production systems and accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies in Australian horticulture.
ALISON BLANSHARD
State Business Banking Executive (QLD),
NAB
She worked her way up through the ranks in a range of roles and locations including in markets and foreign exchange in Sydney, and Business Bank Executive for the Coffs Harbour and Clarence Valley region in NSW.
CARL LARSEN
Associate,
RMCG
Carl is a socio-environmental scientist with 15 years’ experience in planning, delivery & evaluation of agriculture & natural resource management programs, integrated water management, climate change & stakeholder engagement.
CAROLINE BARRETT
Director - Primary Industries,
GS1
Caroline Barrett is the Director of Primary Industries at GS1 Australia, where she drives initiatives to improve traceability and supply chain transparency across the agricultural sector.
CHARLES SIMONS
Chief Sales Officer,
BioScout
After completing studies in Viticulture at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, Charlse explored vineyards and wineries across the globe. Over the years, his dedication and expertise have garnered recognition, including prestigious titles from around the world.
DR. DAVID HUGHES
Emeritus Professor of Food Marketing,
Imperial College London
A global expert in food industry trends, agribusiness, and retail, with experience across multiple continents.
DR DJIN GIE LIEM
Associate Professor,
Deakin University
Dr. Djin Gie Liem is an Associate Professor in Sensory and Consumer Science at Deakin University. He serves on the Hort Innovation Strategic Advisory Panel for Vegetables (Post-Farmgate), and is an Executive Editor of the journal Appetite.
DONNA LUCAS
Principal,
RMCG
Donna is an agricultural consultant with experience in business management, research and extension. She is adaptable with an ability to contribute to projects at a strategic level.
ELAD MARDIX
CEO and Co-founder,
Clarifresh
Elad is the CEO and Co-founder of Clarifresh, the world’s first AI-powered Quality Management software for the Fresh Produce industry.
FIONA WILHELM
Founder,
Wilhelm Group
Fiona Wilhelm is passionate about helping organisations and individuals future-proof themselves in an age of rapid change.
GAIL WOODS
Special Projects & Advisor,
Fresh Markets Australia
Gail has worked on behalf of the wholesalers for over a decade, as General Manager for Brismark and General Manager of FMA, and now working with FMA in a Special Projects and advisor capacity.
DR GORDON ROGERS
CEO,
Applied Horticulture Research
Gordon is CEO of Applied Horticultural Research and an adjunct Professor at the University of Sydney. He specialises in applied research and communicating practical, profitable solutions to producers.
JAMES NILSSON
National Director - Rural & Agribusiness,
Colliers New Zealand
James Nilsson is the National Director of Rural & Agribusiness at Colliers New Zealand, leading a nationwide team focused on rural property transactions and valuations.
JANE MULLER
Safe Trade Co-Lead,
CSIRO
Jane builds connections between CSIRO researchers and government and industry stakeholders to translate science into solutions that grow market access, protect biosecurity and enhance the sustainability of Australia's horticulture industries.
JANE SIEBUM
Chief Executive Officer,
Freshcare
ane Siebum joined Freshcare in early 2021 and is a veteran of the non-profit and advocacy sector. Her extensive experience in IT Project Management, has fostered Jane’s commitment to exploring emerging technologies which help all Australian producers meet Freshcare certification.
JEMMA O'HANLON
Chief Executive Officer & Director,
Foodwatch
Jemma O’Hanlon is a keynote speaker, consultant and one of Australia's most prominent media dietitians. On a mission to make nutrition easy to digest, Jemma is a recognised expert across multiple platforms.
JESSE MANUEL
National Director - Agribusiness Transactions
Colliers Australia
Jesse Manuel is the National Director of Agribusiness Transactions at Colliers Australia, where he specialises in the acquisition and divestment of large-scale agricultural assets.
JOSH CROSS
Business Development Manager,
Jane’s Weather
With a background spanning software, tech, and research roles, Josh joined Jane’s Weather driven by a passion for Australian-grown technology and practical innovation.
JOSH SMITH
Lead Consultant,
Caitlyn
Josh is a lead consultant and AI expert with extensive experience in generative AI, particularly its impact on the agricultural industry.
JULIUS JOEL
Group Product Director - Celery,
G's
Julius brings 30+ years of global agribusiness expertise, from broad-acre to intensive horticulture. He'll energetically unpack G’s innovative approach to regenerative farming, tech adoption, market dynamics, and climate resilience.
JUSTINE COATES
Director,
Plus One Serve
Justine is the Managing Director of Plus One Serve - an executive leader who is passionate about making a positive difference by building sustainable futures to improve human and planetary health.
JUSTINE SCHOFIELD
Television Host,
Everyday Gourmet
Justine Schofield is a beloved TV personality and cook, best known for her long-running show Everyday Gourmet on Channel Ten. She now runs her own boutique catering business.
LAUREN JONES
Consultant
RMCG
Lauren is a consultant with RMCG who has a strong foundation in agribusiness and accounting, underpinned by a Bachelor of Business.
LIAM O'CALLAGHAN
Editor,
Produce Plus Magazine
Liam O’Callaghan is Editor of Produce Plus Magazine, the leading publication for Australia and New Zealand’s fresh fruit and vegetable trade, published by Fruitnet.
LINA ASHMORE
Food Safety Specialist,
Intralox
Lina Ashmore joined Commercial Food Sanitation in 2023. Lina's profound commitment to food safety, recognising its pivotal role in operations, is reflected in her passion for advancing food safety practices and making a meaningful impact in the field.
MARK PULLIN
General Manager,
VEG Education
Mark is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in education, L&D, and organisational development, combines his passion for training with a deep love for the fresh produce industry to create unique solutions for horticulture businesses.
MICHAEL DOSSOR
Group General Manager,
Result Group
Michael Dossor is Group General Manager at Result Group and an expert in sustainable packaging and supply chains. He contributes to several industry councils and working groups. His focus includes 2D coding, traceability, and innovation.
MICHAEL NOON
Executive Director,
Next Rural Queensland
Michael Noon is Executive Director at Next Rural Queensland, specialising in succession planning and business advisory for farming families and rural enterprises.
NEIL MOODY
General Manager - ANZ Region,
Focus Insights
Neil Moody is a proven retail professional with extensive experience across analytic insights, marketing / sales strategy, execution and measurement with over 25 years in the industry having worked across Focus Insights, Nielsen, Kellogg and Yakult during this time.
NEIL RECHLIN
Partner,
NextGen Group
Neil has been front and centre in the development of both Category and Capability solutions over the past 20 years, having worked extensively with both retailers and manufacturers.
NOEL AINSWORTH
Principal Horticulturist,
Department of Primary Industries, Queensland
Noel develops and leads collaborative projects to improve sustainability in the horticulture industry, including promoting sustainability.
PASCUAL BAUSET
Marketing Manager,
Servalesa
Pascual Bauset is Marketing Manager at Servalesa, specialising in sustainable ag-tech. He focuses on biostimulants and microbials to improve farming efficiency. Pascual is committed to crop performance and environmental sustainability.
RAM KISHORE SAVANA
Farmers Time Freedom Coach,
Enable Ag
Ram Savana is founder of Enable Ag and Australia’s first Farmers' Time-Freedom Coach. He helps farmers improve work-life balance and build resilient, sustainable operations. Ram is a recognised speaker on agricultural innovation.
RAWDON BRIGGS
Head of Agribusiness - Agribusiness Transactions ,
Colliers Australia
Rawdon Briggs is Head of Agribusiness, Transaction Services at Colliers Australia, where he leads national efforts in the sale and lease of large-scale agricultural assets.
SAMANTHA NORMAN
Head of Migration (East Coast),
Mapien
Samantha Norman is the Head of Migration - East Coast at Mapien, a leading independent workplace strategy firm. With nearly two decades of experience, she specialises in providing strategic immigration advice to corporate and individual clients.
SCOTT HANSEN
CEO,
APVMA
Scott is an experienced executive in the primary industries sector, bringing over 30 years of leadership across various industry and government roles.
SHANE SCHNITZLER
Chair,
Fresh Markets Australia
Shane is dedicated to advancing the longevity and sustainability of Australia’s fruit and vegetable industry. With a profound commitment spanning over 35 years, including 13 years in retail, Shane brings a rich expertise to his leadership roles.
SHANSEL SAMI
Director,
Nielsen IQ
Shansel Sami is a Director at NielsenIQ and has worked at the company and across the FMCG industry for over 20 years.
SIDDHARTH JADHAV
Founder and CEO,
Polybee
Siddharth founded Polybee in 2019 as a spinoff venture from the National University of Singapore. Siddharth leads the company's product development and oversees business development.
SIMON TOOHEY
Television Host,
Freshly Picked
Simon Toohey is a chef and host of Channel 10’s Freshly Picked. He is known for his plant-based cooking and passion for sustainability. Through media, events, and brand partnerships, he continues to promote mindful eating and a more sustainable food future.
SU MCCLUSKEY
Special Representative,
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
As the inaugural Special Representative for Australian Agriculture, Ms McCluskey is a prominent voice to promote Australia's commitment to sustainable agriculture, the multilateral system and the principles that underpin global trade in agricultural goods and products.
THEA WALKER
Horticulture Business Consultant,
Planfarm
After completing a degree in Agribusiness at Curtin University, Thea has brought her passion for horticulture into her role as a horticultural business consultant at Planfarm.
TIM WITHERS
Marketing and Membership Manager,
IFPA ANZ
Tim Withers is the Marketing & Membership Manager for the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) in Australia and New Zealand, leading engagement across one of the region’s most vibrant and essential sectors.
WENDY HUBBARD
Consumer Insights Manager,
Hort Innovation
Wendy Hubbard is an accomplished category and insights professional with over 20 years in the consumer goods industry.