Hello there 👋
There’ll be a lot of familiar faces opening this email, but if I haven’t yet met you – it’s great to be in touch. I’m thrilled, and a little nervous, to introduce myself as the new Chair of the Australian Banana Industry Congress. Why nervous? Put simply, this is our industry’s biggest event. I know what it can be when it’s at its best, but I also know it needs to continue evolving to earn its place on your calendar. More on that in just a moment.
I’m a banana and cane grower from Tully in Far North Queensland. I’m in it up to my eyeballs, as they say. I love this industry and the people who make it tick, and I’m passionate about creating events and opportunities that have real impact. Working with our 2027 Banana Congress Program Committee, I think we can do just that in May next year and I warmly invite you to join us.
Where: Cairns Convention Centre (in the new development)
As the banana growing heartland of Australia, Far North Queensland emerged as the preferred destination following our 2025 event on the Gold Coast. Come for a day or stay for a few nights – it allows you to choose your own adventure and is easily accessible from other major cities.
It’s also important to note that this is not Congress at the Convention Centre as you’ve experienced it before. We’ll be enjoying their new, purpose-built conference facilities (with views of Trinity Inlet – not that you’ll want to look away from the stage!)
When: 12-14 May, 2027
Based on surveys following our last few events, we’ve moved to May in 2027, hopefully hitting the right spot between those busy on-farm periods and other events.
Theme: Homegrown, world class
We grow every banana sold in Australia right now, and we do it well. That’s worth celebrating. From the farm, to the lab and right through the supply chain, we’ve worked hard to earn our reputation as world-leaders. With the threat of imports looming, and ongoing challenges ranging from red tape to crop protection, it’s important to unite to protect what we have and find ways to move forward.
What to expect
Banana Congress 2027 will kick off with the hugely popular Banana Scientific Symposium on 12 May. This will be followed by two days of speakers and panels – but expect a twist or two along the way! We’re excited to refresh our tradeshow offering to make it more engaging, including a new social event on Thursday night. The Banana Bar and Banana Women’s Luncheon will be back, but we’re building on their previous formats. And of course, our Banana Ball will wrap things up in style on Friday night. Overall? Think practical, entertaining and a little bit different.
ABGC Grower Members will again be entitled to 2x heavily discounted registrations –if you’re not already a member, there’s still time to get on board (you can sign up here)!
I’m excited to share more with you over the coming months, with registrations launching in January. I also welcome your thoughts, good or bad, at any time. Someone you’d like to see at Congress? A topic you think we need to cover? This is your industry event, so put it out there.
If you’re interested in partnering with us to deliver this event, we’d also love to hear from you.
