The IMSC, the dedicated independent organisation championing the global Macadamia industry, recently convened in person for the first time post-COVID at the IMS in Zimbali this September.
New Leadership in Sight
With the departure of Mr. Jolyon Burnet, the former Chairperson, we are thrilled to announce that Mrs. Lizel Pretorius has been nominated as the Acting Chairperson.
Her nomination received resounding support from IMSC members, and we eagerly anticipate her leadership guiding IMSC to new horizons.
Announcing the host of the 10th IMS
On 1 March 2024, IMSC will unveil the winner of the bid to host the 10th IMS.
The winner will be announced by IMSC member organisations.
Global Research Focus
The Global Research Focus event, which took place on the morning of 18th September 2023, was organized by SAMAC’s R&D division, Dr Gerda Fourie (University of Pretoria) and Prof Femi Akinsanmi (Australia).
It was held as part of the IMS 2023 at Zimbali and was aimed at bringing together the diverse group of macadamia experts. With approximately 50 of the top macadamia researchers in attendance, the Global Research Focus fostered a spirit of openness and collaboration among key player countries.
The event offered a dynamic platform which combined problem-solving skills in the form of a round table solution session. Several worldwide macadamia production challenges were addressed. It was truly a pivotal moment for the global macadamia research community, highlighting the importance of working together to advance the industry.
Farm Visits
The IMS 2023 wrapped up with informative farm visits on the afternoon of 21 September 2023, with approximately 250 delegates visiting three macadamia farms on the North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Delegates rotated between different “stations” on each farm where growers either showcased specific interest points of their operations such as cracking plants or fertigation pump houses, or where demonstrations on aspects of macadamia management took place. Leading technical advisors and researchers gave short presentations on aspects such as orchard rejuvenation, pest and disease scouting, pruning and irrigation.
The farm visits even included a surprise visit by GUSS, IMS 2023 event partner John Deere and GUSS Automations’ autonomous sprayer. The farm visits were hugely successful and enjoyed by all, with the added bonus that everyone walked away with renewed energy to implement what they have learned.
Friendly Competition among Delegates
During our cultural evening at the IMS, spontaneous excitement took over as delegates organised an impromptu swimming race. The late-night event brought immense joy to all participants, showcasing the fun side of our delegation. In a surprising turn of events, Graeme Whyte, our eldest competitor, emerged victorious, illustrating that our delegates are competitive both inside and outside the boardroom.
Interactive Drumming
On 19 September, our delegates enjoyed an interactive drumming workshop with the World renowned Drum Cafe. The workshop, known for reducing stress and promoting feelings of wellbeing and team camaraderie, was the perfect scene-setter to kick off the much-anticipated IMS.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported the 9th International Macadamia Symposium, where we proudly represented our beautiful country, South Africa, and the thriving macadamia industry. Your dedication and enthusiasm have played a pivotal role in making this event a resounding success. Together, we continue to elevate the macadamia industry to new heights.
Thank you for your unwavering support.” – Lizel Pretorius, CEO of SAMAC.
VIP Guests
The IMS truly shone with a constellation of local and international talent.
Our conference commenced with an exciting golf day featuring a celebrity four-ball, graced by the presence of Pat Lamby and Bobby van Jaersveld.
Leading the proceedings was the former Miss South Africa and the esteemed host of “Top Billing,” Joanne Strauss.
Our lineup of speakers was equally impressive, featuring Mrs. Chen Yuxiu, the Founder and Chairwoman of YMAC, the vice-chairwoman of CNSA (The Specialised Committee for Nuts and Dried Fruits of China National Food Industry Association), and the chairwoman of Yunnan Macadamia Society
We also had the privilege of hosting Jillian Laing, the CEO of The World Macadamia Organisation.
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