Invitation

It’s an event that brings people together, providing a chance to network, kick back and have some fun.

It’s an event that injects positivity when it sometimes feels farming – and working along the supply chain – is more a game of red tape and ticking boxes, rather than getting good produce to consumers.

But most of all, it’s an event that delivers ideas you can implement now and outcomes that will guide industry through the next few years.

We’ve listened to your feedback. In 2025, Congress moves to August. Bananas are a year-round fruit and we all know there’s no real ‘downtime’, but August is traditionally a quieter month, hopefully freeing up more growers, families and industry stakeholders to take part in our premier event. Put it in your diary now: 6-8 August, 2025.

After two successful events in Far North Queensland, we’re heading back to the Gold Coast. The destination offers the perfect venue in RACV Royal Pines Resort, which effectively becomes banana-central for the time we’re there. It features a range of recently refurbished accommodation options and plenty of on-site facilities, including golf, restaurants and a spa. Of course, it’s also the ideal place to extend your break – with or without the family in tow. But this is not the same Congress you’ve attended before.

In 2025, you can expect a new, dynamic layout, giving exhibitors and growers more access to each other and to any plenary sessions. As well as stand-out speakers and engaging panels, we’ll be tackling some of the key issues away from the main stage. You play a critical part in getting growers’ fruit to Australian banana lovers, and we want you to be part of these conversations.

We know there are many things people know and love about Congress. The Gala Ball and Awards of Honour will return, and our much-loved Banana Women’s Luncheon will also be part of the program. Building on the success of previous years, the Science Symposium will be held the day prior to Congress. This is a huge drawcard for researchers, as well as science-minded growers and industry stakeholders.

We’re continuing to look for ways we can bring a sense of fun and excitement across the 2025 event, while giving people space to think and take on new ideas. Our focus is on making this Congress more accessible and relevant to growers across Australia. It’s also on ensuring that our sponsors and exhibitors know just how valued they are.

Banana Congress is a way for you to throw your support behind the industry we’re all so passionate about. It’s a tangible way of backing growers and showing that you see a bright future for Australia’s favourite fruit. I look forward to seeing you at the Gold Coast in 2025.

Warm regards,

Paul Inderbitzin
2025 Australian Banana Industry Congress Chair