The ARC Research Hub for Protected Cropping (PC Hub) was proud to join fellow protected cropping initiatives at Protected Cropping Australia 2025 (PCA2025) last week, a significant event that brought together researchers, industry partners, and innovators dedicated to shaping the future of sustainable horticulture.
As a newly launched research hub, PCA2025 marked a pivotal moment for the PC Hub to showcase our collaborative approach to advancing protected cropping systems. We were honoured to share the stage with our network partners, including the La Trobe Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and Food (LISAF), the Australian Plant Phenomics Network (APPN), and the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plants for Space (P4S). Together, these initiatives represent a dynamic ecosystem of research excellence, driving innovation across protected cropping sectors.
PCA2025: Research Meeting Real-World Challenges
The event was a clear reminder of the opportunities that arise when research aligns with industry needs. For the PC Hub, PCA2025 provided an invaluable platform to engage directly with growers, technology providers, and industry stakeholders.
Across the sessions and exhibition floor, we held meaningful discussions on the unique challenges facing the protected cropping sector — from sustainability and resource efficiency to the integration of next-generation agtech solutions. These exchanges are critical as we work to ensure that the PC Hub’s research is not only innovative but also practical, scalable, and industry-driven.
Celebrating Excellence and Emerging Talent
We were also incredibly proud to celebrate the recognition of our talented researchers. Ricarda Jost (PC Hub) and Anshul Phaugat (Plants for Space) received nominations for awards during PCA2025 — a testament to the expertise and innovation that underpin the PC Hub’s research initiatives. Their contributions highlight the depth of capability within our team and our commitment to nurturing the next generation of horticultural scientists and innovators.
Celebrating Collaboration and Industry Leadership
We extend our sincere thanks to LISAF for their leadership in bringing together this collaborative network, and to Protected Cropping Australia (PCA) for organising such a forward-looking and engaging event. PCA2025 not only provided a platform to showcase emerging research but also fostered meaningful connections between academia, industry, and growers, connections that are essential to driving impactful innovation.
Stay tuned for updates on our research, industry collaborations, and opportunities to engage with the PC Hub.
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