Cairns Convention Centre For the first time, the International Conference on Mycorrhiza (ICOM) will take place in Australia’s Tropical North Queensland, with the Cairns Convention Centre confirmed as host from 12–17 July 2026.
More than 500 delegates from over 40 countries are expected, including leading researchers, policymakers and early-career scientists.
Centred on the theme Mycorrhizas in a changing world: challenges, opportunities and solutions, the programme will feature four plenary sessions and over 230 presentations, with Rising Star Plenaries giving visibility to emerging researchers. Sustainability is central to the event, reflected in its branding: a sea turtle symbolising resilience alongside fungi and plant imagery.
“Cairns provides the perfect stage to discuss how mycorrhizal fungi can support a sustainable and resilient future,” said Associate Professor Jonathan M. Plett, ICOM2026 Co-convenor.
Janet Hamilton, General Manager of the venue, added: “The combination of our world-class facilities and the incredible biodiversity of the region provides a powerful platform for meaningful discussion and collaboration.”
Delegates will also be encouraged to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as Indigenous cultural experiences and the wider Tropical North Queensland region.
“This event aligns perfectly with our region’s focus on ecological stewardship, scientific collaboration and sustainable travel,” said Tara Bennett, General Manager of Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef.