The Australia World Potato Congress has made history, attracting more than 1,000 registrations and boasting a sold-out Gala Dinner and Post-Congress tours.
A kickoff to the June 23-26, 2024 World Potato Congress (WPC) was held Sunday evening, celebrating the wines and potato variety pairings of Australia. Delegates received a traditional Aboriginal welcome with the music of a traditional didgeridoo player followed by the Hon. Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development and Minister for Forest Industries. Host Dr. Nigel Crump of Potatoes Australia welcomed delegates and invited everyone to enjoy the exhibit and networking reception. The evening provided an early opportunity to forge connections, share insights, and discuss the future of potato farming and production. The atmosphere was electric, as old friends reunited and new connections were formed.
A Grand Opening and Warm Welcome
On Monday, the Congress kicked off with an impressive opening ceremony that set the tone for the four-day event. Industry leaders, experts, and enthusiasts gathered at the Adelaide Convention Centre for the opening address delivered by Her Excellency, the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia followed by Hon. Clare Scriven MLC.
President of the World Potato Congress, Dr. Peter VanderZaag, keynote speaker, welcomed the delegates on behalf of the WPC Directors and International Advisors. His address highlighted the importance of innovation and sustainability in the potato industry, and in particular the impact the WPC is making globally via networking to utilize the potato to address global food security.
Trade Exhibit Hall: A Hub of Innovation
One of the main attractions of the Congress was the expansive trade exhibit hall. Exhibitors showcased the latest advancements in potato farming technology, equipment, and products. From state-of-the-art harvesting machinery to cutting-edge irrigation systems, the hall was a testament to the ingenuity and forward-thinking that defines the potato industry.
Attendees had the chance to interact directly with manufacturers, distributors, and innovators, gaining valuable insights into the tools and techniques that can drive efficiency and productivity in their own operations.
Celebrating Excellence: Global Potato Industry Awards & Gala Dinner:
A highlight of the Congress was the presentation of the Global Potato Industry Awards. These prestigious awards recognize outstanding contributions and achievements within the global potato sector. This year’s Global Industry Award winners were: Nelio Compelio, Philippines; Walter Davidson, Canada; Abd-Allah Md Dhaif-Allah, Yemen; Dr. Paul Horne, Australia; Dr. Liping Jin, China; Dr. Mohinder Singh Kadian, India, Frank Mitolo, Australia; Alan Pye, Australia, Dengshe (Don) Wang, China.
The awards ceremony was a poignant moment, as peers celebrated the dedication and ingenuity of these remarkable individuals and organizations. Their achievements serve as inspiration for the entire industry, encouraging continued excellence and advancement.
Some 800 delegates attended the sold-out Gala Dinner, which was a fitting conclusion to the Congress. Held in the iconic Adelaide Oval, the evening featured a gourmet menu inspired by the humble potato.
Post-Congress Tours: Learning from the Best
The final day of the Congress featured exclusive post-Congress tours, which were sold out well in advance. These tours offered participants a unique opportunity to visit leading potato farms and research facilities. Attendees observed best practices in action, from advanced crop management techniques to innovative storage solutions.
The tours were an invaluable experience for many, providing practical insights and fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of modern potato farming and included Mitolo Farms, Pye Group and Peter Cooper – Kangaroo Island Seed producer. Intertwined within the potato sector tours was a mix of opportunities to appreciate true Australian culture and hospitality. Wineries, Gin distilleries, botanical gardens, wool factories, and wildlife parks were a few of the many stops included in the post Congress tours.
The Australia World Potato Congress has undoubtedly been the birthplace of many new initiatives and alliances. As attendees return to their respective countries and fields, the innovations and collaborations sparked at this Congress will continue to drive the conversations on research, marketing, and production. As this 12th Congress has ended, the WPC sets it eyes on the 2026 event to be held in Gdansk, Poland.
Global Industry Award Winner: Walter Davidson – Nominating Submission by Kevin Brubacher, General Manager, Ontario Potato Board
Walter Davidson was born in Aughton Lancashire, England. He served in the British Army during his teenage years. He had the opportunity in 1956 to immigrate to Canada. Walter arrived in Canada with $15 in his pocket. Upon arrival, Walter began working on a farm that dealt primarily with cattle and grain but eventually moved on to growing potatoes on about 50 acres. When the Crang family decided to sell, Walter and his wife Linda started his dream vision and bought the farm. From there they grew his dream to what it is today, W.D. Potato Limited.
W.D. Potato Limited is a $120 million, 3rd generation family owned business that has a large storage and transportation facility situated on a 150 acre site located in the heart of Beeton, Ontario. WD Potato Limited has been in the business of potatoes for more than 50 years. Walter has a great depth of knowledge and experience in growing, handling, storing, and transporting potatoes for the chip processing industry in both the U.S. and Canada
Walter has always been a man of his word; he believes a hand shake seals a deal. He has built a relationship with a network of 45 processing chip and see growers, increased storage and wash capabilities and has a dedicated fleet of trucks to provide the business.
Walter and his wife Linda are true believers in giving back to the community in which they have prospered. The vision of WD Potato Ltd is to work together and build long-lasting, beneficial and rewarding relationships. Walter and Linda have carried this same vision into their community by supporting the local memorial hospital and the people in which it serves, along with supporting local sports organizations and charities.
Walter is a true advocate for the potato industry across North America and deserves to be recognized with the WPC Industry Award.
