THE 10th Biennial Hydroponic Farmers Federation (HFF) Conference embraced a new format earlier this month when it was held in Lorne, Vitoria.
The three-day conference theme was "The Next Step" with content designed to help growers take the next step in developing their horticultural business.
The conference format was changed to improve the general grower experience with day two split between morning speakers and afternoon site visits.
Perhaps the biggest change to this year’s event was the fact registration was free for paid up HFF members, with the intention to give something back to grower members.
The conference kicked off with something different in a breakfast salad experience.
Delegates shared the opportunity to see award winning chef and Love My Salad ambassador Christopher Howe turn hydroponic produce into salad dishes tailor made for the event.
Rijk Zwaan Australia’s retail and trade account manager Frances Tolson was full of enthusiasm over the how industry took the time to mingle over salads.
“It was a fantastic start to a great conference; we served almost a 150 salads to delegates at our breakfast salading experience," Ms Tolson said.
"I know some people might have had more than one because they really were great."
Christopher Howe also presented a Salad Masterclass on the Thursday morning which was open to the community of Lorne, this time sponsored by the HFF.
“We can share the knowledge and passion behind salads with stories and recipes, reinforcing the positive message that eating more vegetables and fruits is fun and enjoyable," HFF president John Elford said.
HFF members donated produce to sell at the Masterclass, raising funds for CFA Lorne Fire Brigade.
“We want the residents to know that as farmers, we’re thinking of them,” Mr Elford said.
Ms Tolson said she was thrilled with the result of the Masterclass and the community involvement.
“This is a great example of how our industry partners can use Love My Salad for their own projects to reach out and engage with consumers and their local communities; and at the same time the HFF has raised a sum of money for the CFA,” she said.
“It was a first class conference, with a great program of speakers and almost 270 delegates attending the conference.
"Also the Love My Salad Masterclass and fund-raiser was also a great success; and it couldn’t have been done without the support of the HFF members.”
Christopher Howe's salads can be found at Love My Salad, here:
