One week to go! 2025 Australian Banana Industry Congress
30 July 2025: Australia’s top-selling supermarket product and most-loved fruit will take centre stage at the biennial Australian Banana Industry Congress, taking place from 6–8 August at the RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast.
From growers to researchers and supply chain partners, every corner of the $697 million industry will come together to share insights, drive innovation, and celebrate the fruit that reaches 90% of Australian households — with over 5 million people enjoying bananas every day.
Paul Inderbitzin, Banana Congress chair and Lakeland-based banana grower, said the event also provides a sense of unity that will guide industry through the next few years.
“It’s pretty rare to get so many people off-farm at one time these days, with ever-increasing admin and costs of production, as well as biosecurity concerns and generally feeling like there’s not enough hours in the day.
“That’s what makes Banana Congress so important. There’s a huge amount of information to take in, and practical tips for your business, but it’s those conversations and catch-ups away from the main stage that make it something special.
Banana Congress celebrates the dynamic banana research space, kicking off with the Science Symposium on Wednesday 6 August.
“This is a day targeted at the research community, but an increasing number of growers are also involved, finding it a valuable chance to hear first-hand from those working to secure the future of the industry,” Mr Inderbitzin said.
“The Symposium, and Congress more broadly, also provide an opportunity for growers, supply chain and researchers to connect – that’s often how new ideas come about.”
The Banana Congress plenary program, hosted by ABC Landline’s Pip Courtney, includes a diverse line-up of engaging speakers including:
- Prof. Altus Viljoen, global Panama TR4 expert (Stellenbosch University, South Africa)
- Jana Pittman, athletics champion and banana ambassador
- Billy Collett, Australian Reptile Park
- Gavin Scurr, Managing Director of Pinata Farms
- Naomi Abbott, NQ Banana Research
- Simon Mattsson, Soil Land Food
- Peter Wren-Hilton, Founder/CEO Wharf 42
- Many more, including growers, marketers, researchers and industry leaders
Mr Inderbitzin noted that Congress would cover some key industry topics, including the challenges associated with workforce, farming with reduced chemical inputs and the complex process of developing new varieties – and getting them to consumers.
“We’ll also be looking at driving demand for bananas, succession on the family farm and solving the soil health puzzle.”
Delegates will also get a snapshot of some exciting innovation, including a banana de-handing prototype update and value adding ideas.
“As always, the weather has thrown some challenges our way this year – from severe flooding in Queensland, to heat in the west and cyclonic winds in southern growing regions. The closure of major freight routes like the Bruce Highway reinforced the importance of strong industry connectivity and resilience — and just how vital farms are to maintaining a steady, reliable banana supply nationwide.
“Despite the challenges, I’m excited to say we’ll have growers from Carnarvon in Western Australia, the growing regions of New South Wales and, of course, from Far North Queensland – and that’s not to mention our scientific community and supply chain partners from across the country and around the world,” Mr Inderbitzin said.
“The countdown is well and truly on for an event that’s as diverse and dynamic as our industry.”
Further information:
- The Australian Banana Industry Congress takes place from 6-8 August 2025 at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast
- The full program can be found at www.bananacongress.org.au
- If you’re keen to come along to Banana Congress, please contact [email protected] to arrange a media pass
Media contacts:
Amy Spear
0439 005 946
[email protected]
Skye Orsmond
0427 942 809
[email protected]
With thanks to our 2025 partners – we couldn’t do it without you!
