The Pistachio Growers’ Association Inc. held a PIT Group meeting at Kyalite Pistachios, Kyalite NSW, on 11 June 2026. A total of 71 growers and industry representatives attended the event.

The day commenced at the Kyalite Pub with an update from Rachel Lee on Carpophilus truncatus. The presentation generated valuable discussion amongst attendees before the group recognised Andrew Bowring’s contribution to the Australian pistachio industry.

As Andrew prepares for retirement from Kyalite Pistachios, he was awarded Life Membership of the Pistachio Growers’ Association Inc. in recognition of his longstanding service to the industry and his willingness to share knowledge with growers over many years.

Following lunch at the Kyalite Pub, attendees convoyed through Kyalite Pistachios with Andrew leading the field walk. The group visited orchard blocks ranging from three-year-old plantings through to 20-year-old trees, with Andrew demonstrating modified central leader pruning and discussing management considerations at each stage of orchard development.

Growers remained highly engaged throughout the afternoon, with continual questions and discussion creating a warm and inclusive learning environment. The practical nature of the field walk provided attendees with the opportunity to see pruning decisions based on age and growth pattern and orchard development first-hand.

Matt Lee and Marcel Guildons demonstrated their orchard sanitation machinery, generating significant discussion around the engineering and innovation behind the equipment and its practical application within commercial orchards. The attention to detail and investment in developing practical sanitation solutions was evident throughout the demonstration.

The day concluded with an opportunity for growers and industry members to catch up informally over a drink at the Kyalite Pub before travelling home.

The PGAI extends its sincere thanks to Andrew Bowring, Chris and the team at Kyalite Pistachios for hosting the event, and to Rachel Lee, Matt Lee and Marcel for sharing their time and knowledge with attendees.

A huge thank you to the growers and industry members who travelled to attend and contributed to the discussions throughout the day.