From 9-11 September, the Macadamia Protection Programme (MaPP) and the Forest Molecular Genetics (FMG) research group participated in the Macadamias South Africa (SAMAC) Grower Symposium, held at the scenic Whispering Thorns venue in White River, Mpumalanga. This annual event brought together a diverse group of industry professionals, including experts, farmers, and service providers, who showcased their offerings through various exhibitions and informative stalls.

The symposium was a hub of activity, featuring a charity golf day that supported the Pro Gratia Learning Centre. The event’s program was packed with five plenary sessions, each addressing crucial topics relevant to the macadamia industry. These sessions delved into key issues such as pest control strategies, managing fungal problems, and exploring innovative production techniques to enhance the industry's growth and sustainability.

Among the notable presentations was Dr Gerda Fourie, the leader of the Macadamia Protection Programme (MaPP) team, who provided in-depth insights into various macadamia diseases and their management. She also provided an update of the on-going research of Dr Rosali Moffat, focusing on biological control of Macadamia felted coccid, a quarantine pest of great concern. The symposium also featured Thembeka Mkhize, who shared her expertise on controlling stink bugs - a significant pest affecting macadamia. Additionally, Byron Sonnekus gave an enlightening talk on flower blight, shedding light on this critical issue and potential solutions.

The symposium concluded with the highly anticipated show-and-tell session where Dr Fourie, Siyabonga Magagula (field extension officer) and Nicolette Sianyuka (disease diagnostic clinic manager) offered a detailed explanation of the diagnostic and extension services provided by FABI. During this time, FMG’s Precision Tree Breeding Platform Manager, Melissa Reynolds, PhD candidate, Mary Ranketse, and intern, James Smith, also provided information regarding the DNA fingerprinting services they offer to macadamia growers and industry nurseries and demonstrated their leaf sampling method. This session highlighted the valuable resources available to growers for addressing plant health challenges and enhancing their macadamia cultivation practices. Overall, the symposium provided a comprehensive platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and professional development within the macadamia industry.