The Forest Molecular Genetics (FMG) Programme in FABI hosted members from the South African Forestry industry at their annual Research Meeting on Tuesday, 18 November, at the University of Pretoria. As part of the celebration of a wonderfully successful academic year, members of FMG showcased their latest research results on Genome Assisted Breeding, Transcriptional Control of Wood Development, Modelling of Wood Development and Genomics of Tree Defence. They also shared recent advances in the Technology Platforms that facilitate diverse research projects, including the newly launched QuantStudio 12K Flex Platform for high-throughput gene expression profiling.  The day was concluded by a plenary address by visiting scientist Prof Steve Strauss, Oregon State University. Prof Strauss shared his expertise in working with genetically modified crops and highlighted the exciting prospects and potential challenges in this expanding field of technology for sustainable agriculture and forestry.