Last week, more than 130 growers, researchers, and industry leaders came together in Queensland for the 2025 Australian Melon Conference and the 30-Year Anniversary of the Australian Melon Association. After a seven-year break, it was fantastic to reconnect face-to-face, share insights, and discuss the future of our industry.

Across the day, we heard loud and clear the challenges growers are facing—particularly the pressure of rising costs and stagnant prices. These conversations reinforced the need to assess our market landscape, explore new access opportunities, and ensure every decision—whether in marketing, research, or communication—is backed by data. There was strong support for a more strategic and collaborative approach moving forward.

We also explored a range of ideas for future investment and activity. These included expanding melon education into schools and food services, boosting fruit quality, supporting new market development, strengthening promotion of melon health benefits, and building a pipeline of future leaders through youth engagement initiatives. A grower-focused communications and social media training program also sparked strong interest.

Importantly, many of you raised the need to revisit the current levy structure to enable greater marketing investment. This feedback is being taken seriously and will help guide discussions moving forward.

The evening celebration brought together generations of industry leaders to mark 30 years since the formation of our national association. It was a special moment to reflect, reconnect, and recognise the contributions of past and present Chairs, board members, and growers who helped shape who we are today.

Thank you for being part of it. We look forward to building the future of the melon industry—together.