Want to get to know more about what’s happening over the ditch? Expressions of interest are now open to join the SNZ Grower tour to Victoria Australia in August this year.
We are inviting members to register their interest for a proposed 2026 Australian Orchard Tour. This will be a fantastic opportunity to gain fresh insights, visit local Australian orchards, and network with industry peers. The trip will focus on summerfruit other than cherries.
The tour will take place over the week of 17 - 21 August 2026. Applications close 19th June 2026.
To maximise the opportunity, SNZ will support travel costs associated with attending the tour (flights and accommodation) but the tour is not exclusively for the travel grant recipients.
Tour Highlights & Inclusions
Summerfruit NZ will cover the following costs for participating members:
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- Expert-Led Orchard Visits: Two days of specialised tours in Shepparton hosted by local fruit consultant Nic Finger.
- Conference Access: Full attendance at the Victorian Fruit Growers Conference, including the official conference dinner.
- Regional Transport: All scheduled transfers between Melbourne and Shepparton.
Travel & Expenses
Please note that attendees will be responsible for:
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- Flights: Arranging your own travel to and from Melbourne.
- Daily Costs: Covering your own accommodation and food for the duration of the tour.
Travel Grants
Summerfruit NZ are offering a limited number of grants to support members with their travel and accommodation costs.
Last year SNZ supported a number of growers to attend the International Cherry Symposium in the USA; this year we are focusing on supporting our peach plum, apricot and nectarine growers to get some international experience.
Grants will be prioritised for members best positioned to share insights with the industry, with additional priority given to up-and-coming growers to develop industry knowledge.
Further information on travel grant is available on the expression of interest application page.