Join us this October in Townsville for our 2026 Australian Melon Conference, with a field day in Ayr. This year’s conference will be hosted across two iconic venues — The Ville Resort-Casino and the Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre — providing the perfect setting for industry networking, knowledge sharing and collaboration.
The 3 day event will allow attendees to combine valuable conference sessions on research, innovation, marketing, and trends with practical, hands-on experiences such as variety trials and farm demonstrations in Ayr.
Your opportunity to have a say on the future priorities and activities of the industry!
Why Attend?
✔ Hear the latest melon industry research and development outcomes
✔ Explore new technologies, products and services at the industry trade show
✔ Gain practical insights from field demonstrations and variety trials
✔ Connect with growers, researchers and industry leaders from across Australia
✔ Stay informed on market trends, exports, marketing, innovation and future opportunities
✔ Build valuable industry relationships through networking events and the Gala Dinner
Who Should Attend?
The conference is designed for:
- Melon growers and farm managers
- Agronomists and crop consultants
- Researchers and extension personnel
- Seed companies and industry suppliers
- Retail, marketing and supply chain representatives
- Government agencies and industry organisations
- Students and emerging industry professionals
What's Included?
Full Conference Ticket Includes:
- Welcome Event including canapes and refreshments
- Research & Development Workshop
- Access to the two-day Trade Show
- Gala Dinner
- Conference Program
- Coffee, morning tea, lunch and refreshments during conference sessions
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers
Ayr Field Day Ticket Includes:
- Bus from Townsville to and from the Ayr DPI research station
- Coffee, morning tea, lunch and refreshments during field day
Accommodation
The Ville Resort-Casino, Townsville
Ardo, Townsville
Exclusive accommodation rates have been secured for conference delegates.
Our three-day event will include:
7th October
An engaging field day showcasing new melon varieties, Queensland DPI’s Ayr Research Station.
Bus departing The Ville at 8am, returning at 4pm.
Field day including variety trials, chemistry trials, automation in action and R,D&E demonstrations at Ayr Research Station.
Morning tea, coffee, and a selection of lunch options are included in the ticket price.
Seed companies attending - HM Clause, Emerge, Terranova, Nunhems, South Pacific Seeds, Rijk Zwaan, Enza Zaden, Lefroy Valley, and Syngenta.
7th October
Welcome Event, The Lawn, The Ville Townsville
Time: 6pm - 9pm
All delegates are invited to join canapés and refreshments on the lawn at The Ville, a perfect way to launch the next two days of the conference and connect with fellow attendees.
8th - 9th October
A two-day trade show coinciding with the conference at the Townsville Convention Centre.
With 20 exhibitors at the two-day trade show, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the latest products, technologies, research developments and innovations supporting melon production and business success. The trade show will run alongside the two-day conference program.
With exhibitors spanning seed genetics, crop protection, irrigation, nutrition, technology and industry services, the trade show provides valuable opportunities to connect directly with industry experts.
8th October
R&D and strategic workshop session, Townsville Convention Centre.
Time: 8.30am - 5.00pm
Dive into the latest research and innovation shaping Australia’s melon industry. This interactive forum and workshop will bring together growers, researchers, and industry experts to explore practical R&D outcomes, share success stories, and discuss emerging opportunities. Attendees will gain first hand insights into innovations driving efficiency, sustainability, and market growth, with hands-on sessions designed to translate research into actionable strategies for the farm gate. Connect, learn, and be part of the conversation that’s shaping the future of melons, including providing input on the future of marketing, export development and industry sustainability.
Morning tea, coffee, and a selection of lunch options are included in the ticket price.
8th October
A memorable Gala Dinner to celebrate successes and make valuable connections, The Pavilion - Ville Townsville.
Time: 6.30pm - 9.30pm
A memorable Gala Dinner to celebrate successes and make valuable connections. The night will commence with drinks and canapes on the terrace, followed by a 2 course sit down meal. Throughout the night there will be entertainment and speakers.
9th October
Wrapping up with a Dynamic and Strategic Conference, Townsville Convention Centre.
Time: 10.00am - 2.00/2.30pm
A dynamic and insightful conference bringing together industry leaders, experts, and growers to explore the future of melon marketing, sustainability, compliance, and business development. Gain insights from key industry speakers on megatrends, supply chain innovations, and melon marketing strategies. There will be engaging discussions tackling pressing industry challenges, including compliance burdens and future business opportunities.
Morning tea, coffee, and a selection of lunch options are included in the ticket price.
An opportunity to network with fellow growers, retailers, and experts to strengthen connections and explore new collaborations.
Contact us for exclusive accommodation pricing at both The Ville, and Ardo Townsville.
Thanks to our conference partners for working with us on what should be a great event! Bayer / Seminis, ABC Software, Ag Nova, Corteva, Fresh Track, Netafim Australia, New South Wales DPI/Food Authority, Nufarm Australia Pty Ltd, Rivulis, Steritech, Sygenta, Trical, Nutrien Ag, HM Clause, Wide Bay Seedlings, BASF Nunhems Australia Pty Ltd, Rijk Zwaan, Teramax, Loveland, Terranova, Nunhems, South Pacific Seeds, Enza Zaden, Lefroy Valley