TNQ Drought Hub
James Cook University Australia
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North Queensland Avocado Industry & Hort Show highlights innovation, collaboration, and soil health

Key takeaway

  • Better soil data, soil monitoring, and improved soil biology underpin long-term productivity. National soil initiatives are building the data and support needed to manage land more sustainably.
  • Projects like Enhanced Rock Weathering show how practical, science-based innovation (e.g. crushed basalt to improve soils + store carbon) could open new opportunities while supporting productivity.
  • The event reaffirmed that climate resilience, profitability, and sustainability grow strongest when producers have access to networks, knowledge, and targeted extension support.
  • The TNQ Drought Hub partnered with NRM groups to support knowledge sharing across the event and help connect science, practice and policy. 

The inaugural North Queensland Avocado Industry & Hort Show Days was held on 9–10 October 2025 in Tolga, drawing avocado growers and horticultural professionals from across the region.

The two-day event offered a full program of trade and machinery displays, technical sessions, and networking opportunities for producers and industry suppliers alike. With over 100 exhibitors, live entertainment, and food stalls, the event was both productive and engaging, giving growers the chance to connect directly with experts and suppliers shaping the future of horticulture.

The TNQ Drought Hub team joined forces with partners Cape York NRM, Terrain NRM, and Gulf Savannah NRM, sharing a joint stall and discussing collaborative approaches to strengthening soil knowledge and climate resilience across North Queensland.

Regional Soil Coordinator, Dhiraj Gajera, engaged with attendees about the National Soil Action Plan and National Soil Monitoring Plan.

“These plans focus on improving soil data collection, promoting soil health, and driving sustainable land management” Dhiraj said. “These initiatives plan for the future by supporting productivity and resilience through better soil stewardship.”
Partners Gulf Savannah NRM, Cape York NRM and Terrain NRM with Regional Soils Coordinator and Enhanced Rock Weathering project staff

Knowledge Broker Karen George joined the team to share the Hub’s broader mission – fostering a drought-resilient North Queensland through innovation, profitability, and strong community partnerships. Drawing on her expertise in knowledge exchange and stakeholder engagement, Karen sparked conversations around the importance of community-led adaptation, collaboration, and the connection between science, practice, and policy in building resilience.

Among the highlights at the stall was strong grower interest in the Enhanced Rock Weathering project, (supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust) delivered in collaboration with James Cook University, the University of South Australia, Carbonaught and the TNQ Drought Hub. The project, currently being trialled on a local avocado farm, explores how applying crushed basalt to agricultural soils can improve soil health and support carbon sequestration. Attendees were eager to learn how such innovations could be integrated into their own production systems.

Growers also showed enthusiasm for discussions on weed identification and management, fall armyworm awareness, and integrated nutrient management, with increasing recognition of the role that soil biology and biodiversity play in sustaining long-term productivity.

Integrated into the show was the NQ Avocado Export Regional Forum, featuring presentations on export trends, market access, and global demand. Industry leaders, including Avocados Australia CEO John Tyas, shared insights to help growers capitalise on emerging opportunities. Supported by a range of partners, the forum strengthened industry connections and provided valuable updates on export market developments.

These conversations underscored the value of collaboration and targeted extension in tackling shared challenges and building climate resilience. By bringing together producers, researchers, and industry partners, the event highlighted how innovation and community connection can drive sustainable growth across the horticulture sector.