News

This week’s nutrition and orchard floor management Masterclass brought growers and experts together for two days of practical, science-based learning focused on building healthier soils and more productive orchards.

Alan Coates (Coates Horticulture) opened the workshop with a deep dive into soil health, highlighting how soil structure and biology work together below the surface to drive strong, resilient trees. Terry Rose (Southern Cross University) followed with the latest phosphorus research, helping growers refine nutrient programs by identifying the lowest effective P levels for high yield and improved environmental outcomes.

Day two shifted to the “engine room” of macadamia production: the orchard floor. Chris Searle (MacAvo Consulting) unpacked how groundcover, organic matter, soil structure and infiltration influence root health and long-term productivity. His practical demonstrations gave growers clear, achievable steps to build a functional and productive orchard floor.

A sincere thank you to the Zunker family, Bryce and Sue Flemming, Simon Andreoli, Alan Loeskow, Michael McMahon and Adrian Walsh for hosting the hands-on sessions. Their orchards provided real-world examples that brought the science to life and strengthened the practical focus of the masterclass.

Across both days, the message was consistent. Healthier soils and well-managed orchard floors deliver stronger trees, more reliable yields and greater resilience for the future.

About the Masterclass in Macadamia Management

The Masterclass in Macadamia Management is the industry’s flagship professional development program, designed to support the next generation of macadamia leaders. The 10-month program covers all aspects of macadamia production, business and leadership through:

• In-class and field-based learning
• Access to leading researchers and consultants
• Benchmarking study tours
• Mentoring and peer networking.

Participants graduate with the knowledge, skills and industry connections to drive innovation and resilience on farm and across the sector.

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

The Macadamia Masterclass project is funded by Hort Innovation, using the macadamia research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government.