News

Seventeen emerging leaders of the macadamia industry have successfully completed the 2025 Masterclass in Macadamia Management, marking the end of their 10-month learning journey with a study tour through some of South Australia’s most progressive horticultural regions.

The Masterclass in Macadamia Management South Australia Horticultural Tour, held from 10–13 August 2025, brought participants face-to-face with leading growers and researchers across almonds, citrus, stone fruit, grapes, olives, strawberries and apples.

A journey of learning and connection

Starting in Loxton, the tour included visits to the Loxton Almond Centre of Excellence, Century Orchards (Almonds), Pyap Produce (Citrus), the Loxton Research Centre (Trellised Stone Fruit Trial), and Lowana Stone Fruit. Participants then travelled to Ricca Terra Farms, exploring innovation in wine grapes and olives.

The final leg of the program in the Adelaide Hills featured Beerenberg Strawberry Farm and Lenswood Apples, showcasing intensive orchard systems and premium value-adding strategies.

Across these diverse sites, participants gained insights into:

• High-density orchard systems
• Integrated pest management
• Canopy management practices
• Innovation and value-adding opportunities

These themes are directly relevant to macadamia production, providing practical takeaways that can help strengthen productivity and resilience across the industry.

Building industry connections

Beyond the technical knowledge gained, the tour created an invaluable environment for networking and collaboration. Participants connected with inter-industry growers, consultants and researchers, sparking ideas that will support the continued profitability and sustainability of macadamias in Australia.

AMS congratulates the graduating class of 2025 on their achievement and thanks the many hosts, experts and partners who contributed to the program’s success.

About the Masterclass in Macadamia Management

The Masterclass in Macadamia Management is the Australian industry’s flagship professional development program. Designed to nurture the next generation of industry leaders, it delivers a comprehensive, evidence-based curriculum covering all aspects of macadamia production, business and leadership.

Run over 10 months, the program includes:

• A mix of in-class and field-based learning
• Access to leading researchers and consultants
• Study tours to benchmark industries
• Mentoring and peer-to-peer networking.

The Masterclass equips participants with the knowledge, skills and industry connections to drive innovation and resilience on their farms and within the broader sector.

For details on the 2026-27 program, visit the Masterclass in Macadamia Management webpage.