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Are you ready to take a deep dive into the science and practice of managing high-performing macadamia orchard systems?

Then the industry’s Masterclass in Macadamia Management, beginning in September 2026, could be for you. 

The Masterclass is a 12-month program developed by the AMS in partnership with horticultural peak bodies, leading universities, research agencies and private sector experts. It is designed especially for experienced orchard managers who are looking to develop high level skills in growing macadamias.

Its aims are to help participants understand the complexities of the macadamia production system and the roles of emerging technology, so they can apply this knowledge to managing a profitable and sustainable operation into the future.

Course structure

Make your orchard more productive, profitable and sustainable

The 12-month Masterclass is designed by industry for industry to help graduates manage their orchard to be more productive, profitable and sustainable. The learning content, developed by experts in the field, comprehensively explores the macadamia production cycle through six core topics:

• Pest and disease 
• Orchard floor and nutrition 
• Water management
• Harvest and post-harvest management 
• Sustainability and innovative technology 
• Canopy management 

The course culminates in a tour of the Almond Centre of Excellence orchard in South Australia, scheduled for mid- August 2027. This tour offers participants a unique opportunity to observe and learn from cutting-edge research and development in the almond industry as well as observe practices in other horticultural and tree crops.

Evaluate your production system

The Masterclass is a unique opportunity for you to complete in-depth analyses of your production system with guidance from industry experts and support from your peers, to develop practical solutions based on the latest information to improve the performance and sustainability of your orchard. 

Participants will develop a valuable industry network and build confidence in sharing their own experiences and knowledge.

Expert presenters

The Masterclass will bring together an unparalleled range of expert presenters who will deliver teaching content, run face-to-face sessions and mentor participants. This includes macadamia researchers, industry consultants and technical advisors from other horticultural and agricultural industries.

Previous course presenters have hailed from a large range of educational institutions and organisations including Griffith University, University of QLD, University of New England, Applied Horticulture Research, Plant and Food Research, NSW Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development and Queensland Department of Primary Industries.

Course delivery

• Masterclass is an in-person course, delivered via a mix of face-to-face workshops, in-field activities and farm visits, all in the Bundaberg region.
• There are six topics that run over two days (from September to May).
• The course days are predominantly Monday and Tuesday however there may be exceptions. 
• The South Australia tour is a 3-day trip that runs in mid- August 2027.

Cost

Cost will be advised in early 2026.

Testimonials

Here’s what some of our recent Masterclass graduates had to say about the course:

“Masterclass was a constructive conduit to the smart minds with a wealth of experience in macadamias. We will be able to take some of the insight and advice from the course to improve our own farming system and drive better outcomes. It’s also a helpful pathway to the people and process that’s evolving in Bundaberg.” Simon Goodhew, Jondell, Gympie

“My experience with the Masterclass significantly expanded my knowledge of the industry. Engaging with numerous growers from various regions and their diverse approaches was eye-opening. The speakers were exceptional, each highly specialized in their respective fields. Additionally, the AMS was incredibly supportive and ensured the course ran seamlessly. This is an outstanding course that encourages you to reevaluate and potentially transform your farming practices.” Ben Temple, Wollemi Farms, Bundaberg 

“The Masterclass was a fantastic learning experience. It was great to have the opportunity to meet and gain insights and knowledge from some of the best commercial growers in our industry. It was certainly an incredible experience travelling from the Northern Rivers to the Bundaberg region, the level of precision and professionalism was impressive.” Josh Hayhoe, Haymac Horticultural Macadamia Orchard Management, Northern Rivers 

"Masterclass was definitely worth the investment for me as I had very little theory and practical experience going into the course. A year later after doing the course I am finding the literature on all macadamia practices easier to understand and apply. My confidence in this space has increased which has allowed me to be more assertive and precise when delegating and deciding on good agronomic decisions with farm staff." Jon Dixon, Area Manager - Maryborough Macadamia & Cane Operations, Rural Funds Management

Expressions of Interest

Expressions of interest for the 2026-27 course will open in early 2026.

Places are limited so if you are ready to be challenged and take this deep dive into the science and practice of managing high production orchard systems, make sure you submit your EOI by the due date.

Only current macadamia farm managers with at least two years’ management or supervisory experience in macadamias or a related agricultural industry are eligible to apply.

Because of the advanced nature of the Masterclass, participants must be prepared to invest the time to attend the full 12-month program, including face-to-face workshops and field trips, and to commit to undertaking some pre-reading to assist with topic understanding.

Queries

If you have any questions about the Masterclass, please contact: 

• Industry Development Officer Emily Grieve (QLD) on 0438 772 757 or 
• Industry Development Manager Leoni Kojetin (NSW) on 0433 007 925.