From 22–25 September in Horsham, the 3rd Australasian Seed Science Conference (ASSC2025) brought together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders under the theme “Seeding Connection: Bridging knowledge, policy and practice across agriculture and conservation”.
Hosted by the Australian Seed Bank Partnership and the Australian Grains Genebank, the conference explored four core themes: Seeds in Culture & Society, Seed Sourcing & End Use, Seed Biology & Ecology, and Seed & Gene Bank Management.
Over four days, delegates engaged in plenaries, workshops, field trips, and networking events that showcased seed science at work. Field excursions through the Wimmera region connected science to practice, highlighting local collaboration in seed supply and landscape restoration.
Our collective efforts saw us welcome over 170 delegates to Horsham, including 30 Traditional Owners and First Nations organisation representatives, 9 delegates from across the Asia–Pacific, and 30 students and early- to mid-career researchers. The event fostered strong collaboration across sectors and generations, strengthening the region’s reputation as a hub for seed science innovation.
Thank you to all who helped make ASSC2025 a success, your participation helped cultivate a vibrant exchange of ideas, and we’re grateful to everyone who gave their time and energy into making this event flourish.