Robotic mowing, automated irrigation and artificial intelligence will take centre stage at a free event helping horticultural growers explore practical ways to manage their orchards.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) will host the AI and Automation Agtech in Focus Day at the NSW Centre for Tropical Horticulture in Alstonville on Tuesday 17 November 2026.
Delivered through the Farms of the Future program, the event will bring growers, researchers and technology suppliers together to demonstrate how emerging tools can reduce repetitive work, improve access to farm data and help producers make more informed decisions.
NSW DPIRD Agtech Specialist Oscar Ballintyne said the day would give producers an opportunity to see technology operating in an orchard and consider how it could meet their needs.
"AI and automation are already being used in horticulture to help growers manage repetitive tasks and make better use of information collected across their farms," Mr Ballintyne said.
"This event will show what those tools can do in practice, from robotic mowing to sensors that help growers monitor orchard conditions and manage irrigation.
"Seeing equipment operating and speaking directly with researchers and suppliers can help producers understand what technology is suitable for their business before they invest."
Participants will see autonomous mowing technology demonstrated in a macadamia orchard and join a guided orchard walk featuring installed sensors, monitoring devices, real-time data dashboards and irrigation automation.
Expert sessions will explore how AI can help growers interpret sensor, imagery and farm data, as well as automate routine business tasks and protect farm information.
DPIRD researchers will also share updates on macadamia research, including the Clean Coastal Catchments program, and explain how technology and data are supporting orchard productivity and resilience.
"Growers face the challenge of managing labour-intensive orchard tasks while keeping track of changing conditions and rising costs," he said.
"Connected sensors and dashboards can give growers a clearer picture of what is happening across their orchard, while automation can free up time for other priorities.
"We want producers to leave with a better understanding of the options available and the questions to ask when considering technology for their own farm."
The event will run from 8.30 am to 2.30 pm at the NSW Centre for Tropical Horticulture, 494 Bruxner Highway, Alstonville.
Attendance is free, with morning tea and lunch provided. Registration is required.
