06 May 2026
Leading New Zealand Grower Mike Casey to Share Innovation Insights at FGV Conference
Fruit Growers Victoria (FGV) is pleased to announce that Early Bird Registrations are now open for the 2026 FGV Conference, to be held on 20 August 2026 at the McIntosh Centre, Shepparton.
The annual conference brings together growers, industry leaders, researchers and agribusinesses from across the horticulture sector for a day focused on innovation, industry challenges and future opportunities.
This year’s program features an exciting lineup of speakers, including three international guest speakers, delivering insights on some of the key issues facing horticulture both locally and globally.
One of the headline international speakers is Mike Casey from New Zealand. Mike is an entrepreneur and cherry orchardist from Central Otago who has electrified all the machines on his farm, demonstrating how transitioning away from diesel can save farmers tens of thousands of dollars each year while significantly reducing emissions.
The conference program will also cover a broad range of practical and technical topics relevant to growers, including pest and disease management, plant nutrition, crop load management, stress and return bloom, and strategies to mitigate stress in orchards.
FGV’s Grower Services Manager, Michael Crisera, said the conference program had been designed to deliver practical, relevant information for growers across the apple, pear, cherry and stonefruit industries.
“This year’s conference will cover a broad range of topics important to growers, from water and sustainability through to technology, innovation and business resilience,” Mr Crisera said.
“With rising input costs and increasing pressure on farm businesses, hearing real-world examples like Mike Casey’s experience will be incredibly valuable for growers looking at future opportunities and efficiencies.”
The conference will also feature trade exhibitors, live demonstrations, networking opportunities and updates from across the horticulture sector.
Early Bird registrations are now available via the FGV website.
For more information and to register, visit the FGV website.
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Media contact:
Fruit Growers Victoria,
Michael Crisera, Growers Services Manager 0427 239 871
