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Jessica Watson storms to banana industry defence
Round-the-world sailor and Young Australian of the Year Jessica Watson opens the Australian Banana Industry Congress today (June 2) as the industry changes tack for greater professionalism.
Also on the agenda is innovative Queensland businessman Phillip Di Bella, the founder and managing director of Di Bella Coffee, who will present a very different way to develop and sustain a successful business.
Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) president Cameron MacKay said he expected Jessica Watson would impress growers and industry stakeholders alike.
“Congress is all about the business of growing and marketing bananas – and Jessica’s determination and vision in her own life emulate what our growers need – in particular after recent climatic events across Australia,” Mr MacKay said.
“She also represents one of our most important demographics – that of the post teen, early adult market so we are very keen to hear what she has to say,” he said.
The congress takes place at the Hyatt Regency Coolum, on the Sunshine Coast Queensland, to June 4 and will attract the attention of growers and industry stakeholders Australia wide. It also marks the 50th Anniversary of the ABGC and will provide attendees with a unique opportunity to see what the industry has achieved in that time.
“It will be a time to celebrate and recognise the extraordinary contribution of many of the individuals, families and organisations that have made and continue to make our industry what it is today,” Mr MacKay said.
Other features of the Congress include Darral Ashton, chairman of Apple & Pear Australia Ltd, who is providing an insight into recent experiences of the apple industry and the decision to import from New Zealand; plus Visy Fibre Packaging, the council’s major foundation sponsor, will canvas their industry to present the latest in packaging trends from around the world and anticipate upcoming technical advances.
“It is an opportunity not to be missed so I strongly encourage growers and industry alike to make this most of this occasion,” Mr MacKay said.
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