Events

Join us for one of the MacGroup events happening this month, where growers, consultants, and suppliers come together to share knowledge, tackle challenges, and explore new opportunities for orchard success. This isn’t just a sit-and-listen session - it’s a hands-on, interactive day packed with practical takeaways:

🧪 Live machinery demonstrations featuring innovative tools in action

🐛 In-depth sessions on pest & disease pressures from this past season

🛠️ Tips and tactics you can apply immediately, perfecting your spray coverage and calibration

🤝 Plenty of time to ask questions, share ideas, and talk through what’s worked (and what hasn’t) with fellow growers.

Whether you're looking to fine-tune your spray strategy, explore innovative equipment, or just connect with others navigating a tough season, MacGroups are your chance to get informed and ready for the months ahead.

MacGroup machinery spotlights

Latest tools driving productivity, precision & innovation in macadamia orchards.

Glass House Mountains & Gympie

Tifone Vector Sprayer supplied by TISCA – Steve Morrison

• High-volume, low-drift spraying with targeted airflow for efficient canopy coverage
• Recirculating spray system minimises waste and chemical use
• Compact and rugged design suited for tight orchard rows and undulating terrain

Batwing Slasher supplied by TISCA – Steve Morrison

• Wide triple-wing coverage - folds for transport, expands for efficient mowing
• Mulches while it slashes, improving organic matter in rows
• Hydraulic wing lift makes it safe and simple to operate around obstacles

Bundaberg

OMC AR-500 Autonomous Tractor towing Air-o-Fan Sprayer supplied by Gallard Group

• Fully autonomous operation using Bonsai AI - no driver needed, even for spraying
• Real-time decision making adapts to terrain and spray conditions on the go
• Tows Air-o-Fan sprayer for high-efficiency, low-drift spray delivery

Mid North Coast

OMC MonoBoom/ ShockWave Tree Shaker supplied by Chris Cook/Dymocks

• Single-boom hydraulic shaker delivers consistent nut removal
• Fast attach/detach system ideal for shared-use or quick swap over
• Balanced, low-profile design for stability on sloped ground or soft soils

Northern Rivers

DJI T50 Drone supplied by Skytech Solutions

40L spray tank & 70L spreading hopper; 4 CDA modules with terrain-following radar

• Dual-capacity drone: 40L for spraying + 70L for spreading - liquids and granules
• Terrain-following radar and AI enable uniform coverage over variable terrain
• 4 CDA spray modules deliver controlled droplet application with minimal drift

MacGroup information sessions

🔍Broad Mite: Is it a factor in the 2025 crop loss?

Recent findings show this tiny pest may have caused more damage than expected - especially to flowers and early nut development. Learn to spot the signs, tell broad mite apart from other pests, and take early action to prevent losses next season.

Presented by Chris Fuller (Nutworks) & Jeremy Bright (NSW DPIRD)

🚜Spray calibration & coverage made simple

Spray with confidence next season. Dr. Theunis Smit (Omen Ag) breaks down the science of calibration into a practical, easy-to-understand session, covering:

• Tree Row Volume (TRV)
• Dilute vs. concentrate spraying
• Air displacement
• Simple tests for air distribution

🗣️Panel discussion: Where did the yield go?

Join a panel of regional pest scouts, consultants, and a host grower to unpack what happened this season and how to navigate the next six months. Hear about orchard priorities such as pest and disease monitoring, post- harvest and canopy management. 

🔬Research: Meet the scientists behind the work

During breaks, take time to chat one-on-one with researchers from UQ, Griffith, QUT, QLD DPI, and CSIRO as they present posters on the latest research. Topics include: macadamia breeding, pest risk forecasting, water use and nutrition. This is a great opportunity to connect directly with researchers and ask questions relevant to your orchard.

🍽️Lunch & Q&A with the AMS team

After lunch, stick around for an open Q&A with the AMS CEO, Marketing Manager and Industry Development staff. Got a question you'd like answered? Email it to: [email protected]

(Include your name, region, and question)

📍 Dates & Locations – RSVP now

All events run 8:30am–1:00pm (tea from 8:00am) and include morning tea & lunch.

🌳Tue 22 July – Glass House Mtns (Agostinelli Farms, Beerburrum) –  RSVP here

🌳Wed 23 July – Gympie (Como Park, Como) –  RSVP here

🌳Thu 24 July – Bundaberg (Natara Orchard, Gooburrum) – RSVP here

🌳Tue 29 July – Mid North Coast (Dymocks Farms, Yarrahapinni) – RSVP here

🌳Wed 30 July – Northern Rivers (Ferndale Farm, Dorroughby) – RSVP here

Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect and see the latest gear in action. RSVP today!