Save the date for the AMS MacGroups, coming to six regional locations this July.
The July MacGroups will explore practical topics shaping orchard productivity and resilience, including pollination, disease prediction and emerging macadamia varieties.
Each event will include an orchard walk where growers can view new and emerging varieties in the field, discuss orchard management and compare regional performance.
This is a great opportunity to connect with other growers, share ideas and experiences and discuss seasonal challenges with others across the industry.
Topics will include:
Macadamia pollination – what growers need to know
Prof. Stephen Trueman and Prof. Helen Wallace
Recent research continues to highlight the importance of cross-pollination in improving nut size, kernel recovery and orchard productivity. This session will explore practical ways to improve pollination outcomes through orchard design, bee management and pollination planning.
Varroa mite update, hive management and pollination preparedness
Varroa Detection Officers
This session will provide an update on the current state of Varroa mite in Queensland and New South Wales, including practical guidance on hive inspection and monitoring. Discussion will also cover an industry honey bee and native bee hive standard, along with alternative pollination options and practical considerations for macadamia orchards.
Latest disease research and prediction tools
Prof. Femi Akinsanmi
Femi will share the latest research into flower diseases in macadamias, including how weather conditions during flowering can influence disease risk, nut set and yield. Growers will also hear about new disease prediction tools supporting earlier intervention and better orchard decisions.
AMS and industry updates
Receive updates on the industry outlook, market conditions and AMS priorities, and connect with new AMS CEO Ben Baldwin and Market Development Manager Laura Davies.
Dates and regions (all morning events including morning tea and lunch)
Bundaberg
Tuesday 14 July 2026
Gympie
Wednesday 15 July 2026
Glasshouse Mountains
Thursday 16 July 2026
Mackay
Friday 17 July 2026
Mid North Coast
Tuesday 28 July 2026
Northern Rivers
Wednesday 29 July 2026
Registrations and venue details coming soon. We look forward to seeing you in July.
