Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Image from Shutterstock
Australia's melon industry will descend on the Burdekin this October, with more than 200 growers, researchers and agribusiness leaders expected to attend a three-day conference showcasing the latest advances in melon production.
Hosted across Townsville and Ayr from 7th-9th October, the 2026 Australian Melon Conference and National Melon Field Day will feature new variety trials, autonomous farming technology, drones, robotics, protected cropping, biosecurity initiatives and research aimed at improving productivity and profitability.
The event is expected to attract delegates from every major melon-growing region in Australia, with organisers saying it will also provide a boost to local businesses.
A key feature of the program is the return of the Australian Melon Field Day at the Queensland Department of Primary Industries' Ayr Research Station, where visitors will be able to inspect variety trials from eight leading seed companies and watch demonstrations of emerging agricultural technology.
The conference program also includes an interactive Research and Development Forum, a two-day trade exhibition, strategic workshops, keynote presentations and a gala dinner designed to encourage collaboration across the melon supply chain.
Melons Australia Chief Executive Officer Johnathon Davey said the conference would focus on practical outcomes for growers while highlighting the region's role in the industry.
“Australian horticulture is evolving rapidly, and this event brings together the people and ideas driving that change," Johnathon said.
“From new genetics and automation to sustainability and market opportunities, the program has been designed to provide practical value for growers while helping shape the future of our industry.”
Johnathon said the conference would also showcase North Queensland to visitors from across the country.
“The conference is also a fantastic opportunity to showcase North Queensland and highlight the importance of the Australian melon industry to regional communities.”
The conference and field day will run from 7th-9th October across Townsville and Ayr. Registrations are now open.
For more information, visit: melonsaustralia.org.au
Online article link: https://www.melonsaustralia.org.au/event/eventpage/83cf394e-4f86-4494-856a-ee0e8f43491d
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Pty Ltd.
