News

Launched in 2020, the National Tree Crop Intensification Program (AS18000) marked the beginning of a five-year journey to advance orchard system intensification for key Australian tree crops, including macadamias. Built on more than a decade of prior research, this ambitious initiative has now concluded, leaving behind a wealth of insights that will shape the future of our industry.

On Thursday, 22 May, growers and industry professionals gathered at the QDPI Bundaberg Research Facility for a special event highlighting the program’s key findings. Attendees heard from leading researchers on topics including optimal orchard designs, rootstock and scion selection, canopy management strategies, and comprehensive economic comparisons between intensive and traditional orchard systems—information that will be critical for guiding future investments.

A big thank you to Dr. Amnon Haberman and his dedicated team for hosting a very informative morning and for their outstanding contributions to the success of the program. Their work has provided growers with practical, research-backed strategies to optimise yields while maintaining balanced, efficient canopy structures.

The National Tree Crop Intensification Program (AS18000) is funded by Hort Frontiers with co-investment from the Queensland Department of Primary Industries, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture & Food Innovation – University of Queensland, Plant & Food Research, Western Australia Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development, and contributions from the Australian Government.

Photo 1: Shane Mulo (QDPI), Ian Johnson (Gympie Grower), and Dr. Chris Searle (MacAvo Consulting)

Photo 2: Megan Boote (Suncoast Gold) and Grant Bignell (QDPI)

Photo 3: Geoff Dickinson (QDPI) and Scott Alcott (MFM)

Photo 4: Mobashwer Alam (QAAFI), Geoff Dickinson, Inigo Auzmendi (QAAFI), Amnon Haberman (QDPI), Shane Mulo (QDPI), and Max Cowan (QDPI)