print post approved pp 424022/00429
ISSUE: THIRTY-SEVEN OCTOBER/2011
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03-11
Magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited
beetroot grower s
$20,000 for Lockyer Valley p16
Mandatory Code Review time
p14 Brisbane Master Plan p8 A ticking for time bomb Markets
Apple Industry
u nder threat fr ui t & veg p5
Reasons to eat more
p5
source
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Several years of planning came to fruition in September with the completion of the new northern warehouse (Building M1) and the Fresh Centre (Building F) refurbishment project.
Both projects are significant for the Markets. The new northern warehouse demonstrates BML’s ongoing commitment to building state of the art facilities for wholesalers, in meeting the needs of their customers. The 4,700m2 warehouse has been tenanted by the Fresh Produce Group. The Fresh Centre project turned a dilapidated and largely semi-derelict building into usable office space. This three-storey building is set to become a commercial hub offering modern facilities for use by Market stakeholders, with a floor area of over 3,000m2, while also presenting a professional and modern face to the Markets. Both projects involved an intensive planning and design process, and a construction phase that was interrupted by the January floods. Alternatives to Dimethoate The current moves by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (AVPMA) to suspend certain existing uses of Dimethoate are finally seeing a greater focus being given to the role which irradiation can offer in meeting both interstate and export disinfestation protocols. While irradiation has gained acceptance in many countries as a disinfestation treatment, there has long been a political disinterest in this form of treatment in Australia.
3
interest in the existing Code, a total lack of consultation regarding any need for change and the need to cut the costs of Government red tape on business, rather than increase it – are a real concern for the vast majority of wholesalers and growers who have strong commercial relationships in place. Many of these relationships are based on personal friendships which go back decades in some cases. Any ‘one size fits all’ approach that seeks to impose inflexible regulatory requirements on all parties is destined to fail to gain broader industry uptake and support because it has and will fail to meet the needs of the industry.
The action by the APVMA is creating the need for the industry to now look at irradiation as an alternative. Code Moves Moves to further tighten the existing Horticulture Code of Conduct, despite an apparent lack of
BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED ABN 39 064 983 017 PO Box 80, Brisbane Markets, Rocklea, Queensland 4106 e: admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au w: www.brisbanemarkets.com.au ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES The Editor Brisbane Markets Limited p: 07 3915 4200 or 1800 631 002 e: admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au
Andrew Young, Chief Executive Officer
Fresh Source is the magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited. New editions of the magazine are printed four times a year. Advertising and editorial inquiries are welcome and media outlets are invited to use material with or without acknowledgement.
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Contents FRESH UPDATES FRESH WHOLESALING Wholesalers buckle up for a variety bash. . . . . . . . p6 Aiding a police officer in his time of need. . . . . . . p6 Pit Stop a healthy result for Markets. . . . . . . . . . . . . p7 Donations feed hundreds during vigil. . . . . . . . . . . p7
FRESH FROM THE MARKETS Review time for Brisbane Markets Master Plan ����� p8 Brisbane Markets back to full capacity. . . . . . . . . . . p9 Markets mentioned in flood inquiry . . . . . . . . . . . . p9
FRESH FROM THE MARKETS : DEVELOPMENT FPG warehouse opens its doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p10 Fresh Centre tenants prepare to move in. . . . . . . p11 Flood proofing the building. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p11 Environmental factors thought through. . . . . . . . p12 The birth of the building in 1964. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p13
Updates Mango Auction date claimed Mango wholesalers are lining up to support the staging of this year’s Brisbane Markets Mango Auction, on Friday, 14 October 2011 This year the Brisbane Markets community is still recovering from devastating floods in January as well as extreme weather conditions, from cyclones to frost, that have affected the quality of fruit. For many, this has made for difficult financial times. It will be one of the toughest years on record for the auctioning of the symbolic first tray of mangoes. In previous years, the tray has gone as high as $50,000.
FEATURE: EKKA 2011
However, the wholesalers are already stirring up interest among potential buyers.
Last year for Ekka’s aged Agriculture Hall. . . . . . . p14 Tasty Kids in the Kitchen sessions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . p15 A tasty treat whipped up by a greengrocer. . . . . . p15
In its 14 year history, this charity event has netted more than $600,000 for the nominated children’s charities.
FRESH INDUSTRY $20,000 for Lockyer Valley beetroot growers . . . . p16 Dimethoate deadline set. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p17 Fresh Connections conference highly recommended. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p18 Crunch time for Australian apple producers. . . . p19 Free Aussie oranges for Brisbane commuters. . . p19 17-21 October is Export Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p19 Short reprieve from flying foxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p20 Downsizing may have unplanned impacts. . . . . . p21 Myrtle rust aims its sights on Australian bush food. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p22 National OHS laws to be ‘harmonised’. . . . . . . . . p23 Queensland farmers the big winners from the carbon farming Initiative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p24 Hobart venue for 2012 AUSVEG convention . . . . p25 National food policy conference planned . . . . . . p25 Fruit and Vegetable Week inspired by movie. . . . p26 Rainbow fruit and vegies for kids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p26
FRESH RETAILING First win, for the first winners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 A tough year on Bribie makes an August win sweeter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28
EVENTS CALENDAR 2011 BML Telephone Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p30
2010 BRISBANE MARKETS MANGO AUCTION KING CARLO LORENTI WITH ONE OF THE CHILDREN RECEIVING BENEFIT FROM HIS AUCTION BID.
Hey there
! s k e e h Sweet C
5 5
North Queensland bananas are back
Brismark Credit Service goes national
Bananas prices have fallen as fruit from farms, that were ravaged by Cyclone Yasi, is now making it to the market.
Adelaide and Melbourne Markets have bought Brismark’s state-of-theart Credit Service software to replace their ageing systems.
Brisbane Markets wholesaler, Peter Kedwell, of Pershouse Produce, said that bananas were initially smaller at the start of their return.
While initially they will not use its full functionality, they were impressed with Brismark’s direction in connecting the Credit Service to wholesalers and buyers to create efficiencies, provide higher levels of service and facilitate better monitoring of credit.
“They’re still a beautiful piece of fruit. They’re easy to peel, they’re sweet, they’re juicy,” Mr Kedwell told ABC Radio. “They are the tropical rice or pasta. They’re the best carbohydrates you can get.”
Up to $600,000 worth of transactions are processed through the Brismark Credit Service annually.
No butts about it Visitors to Brisbane Produce Market will have to find a better place to light up their cigarettes after stricter no smoking regulations went into effect from 1 October. It’s the second stage of a program to re-educate all Market users that smoking near fresh fruit and vegetables is prohibited. The first stage of the no smoking ban earlier this year prohibited smoking near the selling floors. This next stage further limits the areas in the Central Trading Area where the loading and unloading of produce takes place. The aim is to make the whole of the Central Trading Area a smoke free zone by 1 January 2012.
Reasons to eat more fruit and veg If you ever thought there was no reason to really eat plenty of low-kilojoule, nutrient rich fresh produce, then have a look at these startling facts and consider the troubles that not eating a healthy diet can produce: • 61% of Australians are overweight or obese. • The rate is higher for men (68%) than women and higher for older people than younger people. • People who have not completed Year 12 are more likely to be obese (31%) than those who had completed this level of education (19%). The consequences are increased risks of chronic health conditions, increased health service use and increased mortality. Source: Overweight and Obesity in Adults in Australia: A Snapshot, Australian Bureau of Statistics, May 2011.
Apple industry under threat Australian apple growers are expected to lose a third of their income this year as a result of apple imports from China, New Zealand and the US, with an expected loss of about $140 million a year. The Centre for International Economics made the dire prediction in an independent report, presented to Parliament in August. Apple and Pear Australia Managing Director, Jon Durham, said the report identified New Zealand apples as Australia’s biggest commercial challenge. Find out more about the introduction of New Zealand apples to Australia on page 19.
Wholesaling Wholesalers buckle up for Variety Bash Wholesalers from three Brisbane Produce Market sections pushed their jalopies to the max in August as they wormed their way across Queensland in the 2011 XXXX Gold Bay Whales to Hay Bales Variety Bash.
wife Kris along for the ride of their lives.
The Brisbane Markets community put more than $15,000 toward the fundraising efforts of the yellow W. S. Williams/ Shamrock 1978 Statesman.
Brisbane Markets donated plenty of giveaways for the kids as the Bash entrants visited up to 14 schools on their trek through Warwick, Goondiwindi, Lightning Ridge, Nindigully, Miles, Cracow, Kingaroy, with the finish line at the Gympie Muster.
Lind and Sons salesman Trevor Williams entered his 1981 XD Falcon, and took his
The Bash is staged by Variety to raise funds to improve the quality of life for special children in Queensland.
Aiding a police officer in his time of need The Queensland Police Service, who were so quick to help the Brisbane Markets during its January 2011 flood recovery, have received some help in return from Brisbane Markets wholesalers. Wholesalers donated a variety of fruit and vegetables to a police officer who was struggling financially and emotionally after suffering a serious life threatening cancer operation. Disaster Recovery team member, Queensland Police Service Chief Superintendent Brent Carter, gratefully collected the boxes of healthy goodies, which he said would help keep the family going through some difficult times.
CHIEF SUPERINTENDENT BRENT CARTER (LEFT) AND BRISBANE MARKETS CEO ANDREW YOUNG WITH SOME OF THE FRESH PRODUCE DONATION.
7
Donations feed hundreds during vigil Pit Stop a healthy result for Markets The results are in – the Brisbane Markets community is healthier than first thought but there is still a long way to go before its workers receive a clean bill of health.
Two utility loads of fresh produce were quickly donated to help feed the hundreds who had gathered at the Slacks Creek site for a memorial service and to keep an aroundthe-clock vigil until the last person’s body was located and then buried.
In June, the Royal Flying Doctor Service conducted the Brisbane Market’s first “Pit Stop” health check. The event was held in conjunction with GlaxoSmithKline, the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries, Brismark and Brisbane Markets Limited. Market employees lined up for a free health check and learned more about lifestyle choices that affect health and productivity. The results were: Chassis Check (waist): Men should have a waist measurement of 94cm or less and women 80cm. PASS – 53%. Extractor (bowel cancer): Those showing risk factors should see their doctor immediately. PASS – 87% Torsion (flexibility): Greater flexibility reduces the risk of injury when performing manual tasks, so stretch regularly. PASS – 66%.
Brisbane Markets wholesalers, touched by the tragedy of Kingston’s recent tragic house fire, were quick to help members of the South Pacific Islander community.
THE FRUITOLOGISTS’ CON LEONTSINIS DISCUSSES HIS HEALTH WITH A ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE MEDICO DURING PIT STOP.
Oil Pressure (blood pressure): 140/90 or less, with those who failed needing to reduce salt, increase exercise, reduce dietary fat intake and seek medical advice. PASS – 87% Spark Plugs (testicles) – no lumps, aches or swelling, keeping in mind men should self examine at least once a month. PASS – 55%
Eleven people from two families perished when the house went up in flames, one the sister of a Brisbane Markets worker. Eight of the victims were children or teenagers. Community member Lae’al Martin, aided by friends, Mirania Wineera, Alicia Tarau and Delaville Kiwikiwi, said she was humbled and touched by the generosity of Brisbane Markets.
Duco (skin cancer) – no change in spots or moles. Check it regularly. Those who failed should seek medical advice. PASS – 80%
Exhaust (smoking): There is no safe smoking, so those who do should quit or seek medical advice. PASS – 75%
Shock absorbers (emotions) – those who failed should talk to an old friend, a family member, their doctor or other professional. PASS – 82%
Fuel Additives (alcohol): drink no more than four standard drinks on one occasion or average of two or less standard drinks a day. PASS – 61%
It is hoped that the increased awareness will translate to better health outcomes for Brisbane Markets workers.
COLLECTING THE DONATIONS: (FROM LEFT) ALICIA TARAU, BRISBANE MARKETS’ PENNY WEBB, DELAVILLE KIWIKIWI, MIRANIA WINEERA, LAE’AL WINEERA AND BRISBANE MARKETS’ PATRICK BUCKLEY.
from the
Markets Review time for Brisbane Markets Master Plan When Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) took over ownership of the Brisbane Markets, it laid the foundations for the redevelopment and upgrading of the Rocklea site. Throughout 2005/06, the proposal was revised and planning approvals obtained. In December 2007, Brisbane Markets produced its Master Plan, a blueprint to provide insight into the range of development projects to be considered by BML. It was a planning document only, with all development suggestions identified subject to further assessment as to their feasibility and the level of support given by prospective tenants. Much has been achieved since that time: • the opening of the $33 million South Gate East warehouse and office development; • construction of a western corridor allowing for an additional entry to the Markets;
SOUTH GATE EAST COMPLEX
• opening of a new 4,700m2 Fresh Produce Group warehouse facility; • purchase of an additional 9.7ha of land in the South Gate West precinct; • refurbishment of Building F, now called the Fresh Centre; and • the start of a fence realignment project behind the Commercial Centre, that will allow better access for the public to offices, commercial tenancies and facilities of the Fresh Centre. Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew Young said that with many of the planned infrastructure projects in place, it was the right time to step back and review the current plan to see if it was still meeting the needs of the Markets’ community. He said the focus would now be on assessing the needs of wholesalers and reviewing the various options in relation to the refurbishment and upgrading the Brisbane Produce Market Central Trading Area.
ACQUISITION OF ADDITIONAL 9.7HA OF LAND FOR THE SOUTH GATE WEST PRECINCT
CHANGING OF FENCE LINE TO WELCOME THE PUBLIC
REFURBISHED FRESH CENTRE BUILDING
NEW WAREHOUSE
NEW WESTERN CORRIDOR ENTRY, GATE HOUSE AND CAR PARKS
NEW SIGNALISED INTERSECTION
9
Markets mentioned in flood inquiry report
Brisbane Markets back to full capacity Brisbane Markets is operating at full capacity after January’s flood inundation. Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew Young said the 150 tenants on the 77ha Rocklea site had been impacted to varying degrees by the flood and it had been a mammoth effort from the whole Market community to get businesses trading in such a short amount of time. Some of the newer buildings were able to recover much more quickly because their air conditioning and electrical distribution boards were situated above the floodwater. Other buildings however, took the full force of the muddy flood waters, up to 3m in depth, and have required extensive recovery work. Mr Young said the most pressing need was to continue to raise the height of vital infrastructure and look at exploring options such as levee banks and raising the ground level within parts of the 77ha property.
Better flood warning systems are required for Brisbane Markets in the wake of the January 2011 flood disaster, according to a Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry Interim Report. The report was handed down in early August, with two of its recommendations referring specifically to the Brisbane Markets. It was recommended that Brisbane Markets should contact the Brisbane City Council on a regular basis in the lead-up to and during flooding to seek local flood information. In response, the council should provide readily understood information which, as far as possible, explains the level of
flooding to be expected at the Markets site. Brisbane City Council has also been requested to clear the flood mitigation channel on the western side of the Brisbane Markets before the next wet season. The report has also recommended dam levels be lowered to 75% ahead of the next wet season. Brisbane Markets tenants suffered more than $100 million in damage during the flood event. Initial reports on the morning of the flood escalated dramatically within a matter of hours, leaving it too late for many to evacuate stock and equipment. The Flood Inquiry will continue with the Final Report to be released in February 2012.
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from the
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FRESH PRODUCE GROUP’S NEW WAREHOUSE IN THE NORTH WESTERN CORNER OF THE BRISBANE MARKETS’ ROCKLEA SITE.
FPG warehouse opens its doors Fresh Produce Group’s (FPG) John Hunter calls his organisation’s new 4,700m2 warehouse “the best thing that has sprung out of the ground since the flood”.
‘Should there ever be another flood event, we may not be untouchable but we would certainly recover quickly and be able to offer support to others who may need storage”.
The Queensland State Manager received the keys from Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) in early September, nearly a year since construction began on a purpose built building, at the end of the Brisbane Markets’ new Western Corridor access road.
The building has already been marked to assist others, with its facilities expected to be used by other Market tenants who require use of the state-of-the-art equipment.
BML Contracted Watpac Speciality Projects to construct the warehouse. The purpose built facility is constructed of insulated panels.
The building contains:
In January 2011 floods swept through the building that was still under construction.
• two offices at the Western and Eastern wing.
The event had enormous impact on FPG and the whole Brisbane Markets site but it all wasn’t negative, Mr Hunter said.
Distinctive design elements include an extended awning, covered finger docks, hydraulic dock levelers, lift platforms for disabled access and extensive mezzanine offices.
“FPG stepped in to take on the pre-pack facilities formerly operated by Gollagher Bros from its flood-effected Shoebury Street premises, including restoring the equipment and moving across more than 90% of the staff. “The result is an expanded FPG service in a construction that we have flood proofed to the best of our ability, with refrigeration units lifted above the flood line” Mr Hunter said. “Mains are raised and still operate the coolrooms during a blackout, all wiring is above flood height.
• five cold rooms that take 780 pallets. • four ripening and fast cooler rooms, and
FPG will consolidate its Queensland business into the new facilities with the intent of placing its pre-pack, heavy produce and imports work in the one location while keeping the Brisbane Produce Marketing trading floor in Block B. “The opportunity exists to support other wholesalers on site with ripening and pre-packing facilities,” Mr Hunter said. “It’s an attractive service to have on site in a building that we are mighty proud of.”
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Fresh Centre tenants prepare to move in The first of Brisbane Markets Fresh Centre tenants have begun to move into their new home, as this once rundown building reveals a fresh new face to become the commercial hub of the Brisbane Markets. The $10 million project to refurbish the three-storey building was completed in September with the handover to Brisbane Markets Limited by contractors Wiley & Co. By the end of this year, most of the building, including a new Market café, a demonstration kitchen and a history room showcasing the Market’s history over the past 100 years, will be open for business. The year-long project has seen the 1964 building stripped back to bare bones and rebuilt. What once was dilapidated office space, banana ripening rooms, and warehousing is now a spacious and modern building with easy access to the Commercial Centre as well as to the Brisbane Markets trading and warehouse areas. The major redevelopment includes state-of-the-art equipment and services and a high quality fit out to comply with modern day Building Code requirements.
Level 2 is the new offices of Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) and Brismark while Level 1 has lettable office space for businesses connected to the Markets. The Level 1 offices open to the spacious atrium that connects both ends of the building. Ground level is a multi-functional area, including BML’s Site Services office, located next to Brismark’s Credit Service, a café, serving coffee and meals to suit all occasions, as well as a full commercial kitchen and training rooms where cooking demonstrations and lessons can be held. There are also tenancy areas for growers and traders and open public spaces where people can meet for a coffee and chat in an informal setting. Fresh Centre’s main entry opens to the existing Commercial Centre on Sherwood Road, with easy entry via elevator, stairs or a ramp. For those keen to see the change from old to new, drop in to see the new space which features plenty of natural lighting that gives the building a spacious and modern feel.
Flood proofing the building The January 2011 floods brought on a slight design change for the Fresh Centre building to reduce the problem of major plant being affected, should the site be flooded again. All major plant and mechanical equipment has been raised above the 1974 flood levels. The transformer building was redesigned to incorporate a second level and the main switchboard and standby generator were relocated to the new level. The mechanical equipment was also raised above the flood line.
from the
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Environmental factors thought through There are lots of new features in the Fresh Centre building that have considered its impact on the environment. Just some of these include: Recycling Care has been taken to recycle as much of the building waste as possible. A system of managing the removal and recycling of waste material introduced by the contractor, Wiley & Co, resulted in 260 tonnes of waste material removed, with approximately 227 tonnes (just over 87%) being recycled. Some items such as material contaminated with asbestos could not be recycled and was disposed of as required by legislation. Water harvesting storage tank
U DID YO ? KNOW The statistics • About 2,600m of water and fire service pipework • 1,000m of drainage pipework used in the renovation • 14,555m2 of wall lining • 2,900m2 of acoustic ceiling tiles • About 200m of stainless steel rail and 20m galvanised rail
A new 22,500L in-ground storage tank has been installed to capture roof water. It will be used for irrigation. Plumbing to toilet cisterns has also been installed to enable rainwater to be used for this purpose. Natural light Two new light shafts have been cut through the roof and second level to enable natural light to filter through the centre of the building to the ground floor. The glass light wells also help to provide a connection for the staff on Levels 1 and 2 with the busy concourse on the ground floor. Ventilation and insulation A natural ventilation system has been installed which will enable the concourse area on the ground floor and the common areas on level 1 to be cooled naturally when external conditions are suitable.
The system will sense wind, rain, temperature and fire and operate motorised louvers accordingly. Air conditioning to these areas will shut down when the natural ventilation louvers are open saving power and prolonging the life cycle of the equipment. All existing external windows were removed and replaced with high performance laminated glass which will reduce the heat load on the building as well as drastically reduce the noise impact from truck and forklift movements around the building. A new roof and insulation was installed over the whole area of the building again reducing the heat load and noise during a rain event. Landscaping Over 40 mature trees have been planted around the Fresh Centre and area of new garden added.
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The birth of the building in 1964 Brisbane Markets Block F, today renamed Fresh Centre, opened in August, 1964 and was the only structure on the newly opened Brisbane Markets site that was not built by the rest of the site’s architects or construction firm.
THE COD BUILDING IN THE 1970S.
Originally it was built for the Committee of Direction (COD) for £400,000 and quickly became known as the ‘COD building’. COD was the largest fresh produce marketing representative in Australia and was operated by the growers. Its uses
A GLIMPSE OF THE FACILITIES IN THE GROUND FLOOR DEMONSTRATION KITCHEN.
COD moved into the new Brisbane Market building because the site provided it with an area large enough to permit planned expansion as Brisbane grew. Until this time, plans to be located at other sites had failed due to a political lack of interest and a site in Fairfield being set aside when it was considered too small. The building housed the administration and computer facilities for COD on its upper levels and included banana ripening rooms, banana selling floors, warehousing and cool storage on the ground level.
THE FOYER ON LEVEL 1
LEVEL 1 OFFICES WILL LOOK INTO THE SPACIOUS ATRIUM.
Among its many features, it boasted Australia’s most modern
banana-packing, and by 1981, a test kitchen was opened. As COD wound up and was replaced in 1999 by Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Growers, and then Growcom, the building’s name and purposes changed. Growcom’s departure in 2004 left it a mixed office and warehousing space. Original construction About 2,600 cubic yards (2,377 metres square) of concrete went into the original construction, enough to build a 3ft (1m) wide footpath 13 miles (21km) long. Steel used in the reinforcing was enough to build a fourstrand wire fence 484 miles (779km) long. A total of 230,000 bricks went into the building and the glass used would be enough to glaze 24 average-sized houses. It stood on a 240ft x 90ft (73m x 27.5m) site and rose to a height of 56ft (17m), making it the tallest building on the Brisbane Markets site.
ef a t u r e
Ekka 2011
Last year for Ekka’s aged Agriculture Hall It may have been the last year for the Brisbane Markets Agriculture Hall, if the Royal National Association’s plans for the aging site come to fruition.
The annual 10-day event in August has long been a great opportunity for the State’s horticulture industry to showcase its wares.
The plans to redevelop the site have been on hold for this year, but made little difference to the Agricultural Hall and its exhibitors at the recent Royal Queensland Show, better known as the Ekka.
It’s also an opportunity to taste some of the many and varied fruits, vegetables and other primary produce on display, and learn a bit along the way.
The popular Kids in the Kitchen and cooking demonstrations hosted by the Brisbane Produce Market once again drew thousands of visitors to the old timber building to say goodbye. Up to 250,000 visitors to the Ekka lined up for the kids and greengrocer cooking sessions, to sample the healthy cooking demonstrations and pick up the informative fruit and vegetable brochures and recipe guides. They wandered among the fruit and vegetable displays, bought themselves a banana and tasted the honey, before taking a last look at the heavily patronised Brisbane Markets cooking sessions.
U DID YO ? KNOW
A MINI CHEF ABOUT TO MAKE A PERSONALISED PIZZA DURING A KIDS IN THE KITCHEN SESSION.
During the 10 days of Ekka, the Brisbane Markets Kids in the Kitchen team: • Used over 90kg of capsicums, 100 punnets of cherry tomatoes and over 80kg of zucchini in the kids in the kitchen cooking classes, plus much more.
After years of discussing and planning retirement of the aged building, the Royal National Agricultural and Industrial Association of Queensland has announced plans to demolish the hall. A new facility is planned as part of a $2.9 billion residential/commercial/retail development, which began in April of this year. The old show bag pavilion is set to become a Convention Centre for use throughout the year. The redevelopment is expected to continue over the next 15 years with the planning process still making way for the Ekka to be staged at the site annually.
• Some 1150 children participated in the kids cooking classes. • Brisbane’s independent greengrocers hand out over 3,000 samples of free tasty dishes using fresh produce as the main ingredient.
FROM LEFT: ELSIE CORNELIUS AND ANICCA BARO OF CHEFSTARZ PREPARING BETWEEN SESSIONS AT THE BRISBANE MARKETS KIDS COOKING CLASSES.
BRISBANE MARKETS’ YVONNE KLETTE TAKES A SNAP WITH QUEENSLAND PRIMARY INDUSTRIES MINISTER TIM MULHERIN ON HIS VISIT TO THE AGRICULTURE HALL.
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Tasty Kids in the Kitchen sessions
A tasty treat, whipped up by a greengrocer
The Brisbane Markets hands-on Kids in the Kitchen sessions drew standing room only for the free cooking lessons, with professional chef, Andre Tabet and his team leading the children through basic meal recipes such as vegetarian pizza.
As the sample trays of steaming veggies, wrapped in exotic offerings, were readied for tasting, eager people pushed and shoved their way toward the Brisbane Markets Retailer cooking stand, where a greengrocer had prepared the food in front of them.
There was even the odd fruit eating competition along the way. Dressed in white hats and gloves, and seated at fruity themed tables, the kids had a lot of fun creating, and then eating their recipes and even won prizes for their scrumptious efforts. The fun, informative entertainment for kids is an annual Ekka drawcard staged by the Brisbane Produce Market Queensland Kids Fresh Net team, with the program better known as QKFN.
The retailer cooking sessions, in the Brisbane Markets Agriculture Hall, are one of the more popular exhibits at the Ekka with thousands of people picking up flyers and being shown, step by step, how to prepare great healthy food with fresh produce. This year’s greengrocers came up with brilliant recipes such as sweet potato latkes; easy apple and pears in caramel sauce; and mushroom, tomato, feta and avocado salad. All the recipes, from the leading greengrocers who presented at this year’s Ekka, can be found at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au. Participating greengrocers included: • Ants Fruit Market
• Fancee Fruit & Deli
• Buranda Fresh
• Fresh Sensations
• Clayfield Markets Fresh
• Paradise Fruits
QKFN is on track to educate up to 7,000 students by the end of 2011 through school visits, agricultural days and by way of using handy educational materials, all based around the two fruit and five vegetables a day message.
SUNCOAST FRESH RETAILER GRAEME TWINE, A FORMER CHEF, GETS A HELPING HAND FROM BRISMARK’S KAREN DORAN.
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN CHEF ANDRE TABET REVEALS ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL COOKING CREATION FOR KIDS.
• Simon’s Gourmet Gallery • Suncoast Fresh
FROM LEFT: ELENA AND CHRIS NICOLAOU, FRESH SENSATIONS CAPALABA, SHOW THE PUBLIC HOW TO PREPARE MOUTHWATERING STUFFED MUSHROOMS.
Industry $20,000 for Lockyer Valley beetroot growers The Queensland Government will step in to aid Lockyer Valley beetroot growers after Golden Circle’s parent company, Heinz, decided to relocate production of beetroot from Northgate in Brisbane to its facilities in Hastings, New Zealand. Minister for Agriculture Food and Regional Economies Tim Mulherin said $20,000 would go towards a market assessment of options for the growers that have been hit hard in recent months. “Many of these growers were just getting back on their feet following January’s disastrous flooding when Heinz made their announcement to move beetroot processing offshore,” Mr Mulherin said. “We have been working closely with industry representatives and processors to resolve this issue as rapidly as possible. “This study will look at new product opportunities, how we can support supply chains and diversify the product base to ensure a sustainable industry for the longer term. “In particular it has been identified that there may be an emerging consumer market for new beetroot products, as opposed to traditional pickled beetroot products. “The results of this market assessment will assist growers, the industry and potential processors to determine the
possibilities for beetroot growing in the Lockyer into the
Valley future.” Mr Mulherin said the decision had been made after careful consideration about how best to assist the industry.
“The completion of this report will see growers have some hard data to inform their decisions going forward, particularly in relation to what they might plant for the 2012 season.” The Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation is continuing to support growers throughout Queensland by offering agronomic advice and Farm Financial Counseling services.
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Dimethoate deadline set BY IAN MAIN, GENERAL MANAGER, BRISMARK The end of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) review of Dimethoate was like a rainbow - the closer we got to it, the further back it went. However, on 22 August the list of proposed chemical suspensions was finally made public. A three-week period was given in which information could be submitted to challenge the risk assessment. The submissions were due to be reviewed, sometime around the end of September, and changes to permitted use would then be implemented. A full list of the proposed suspensions can be found on the APVMA website at www.apvma.gov.au. A long review The Dimethoate review began in 2004 however preparing for the outcomes began much later. Work has been coordinated by the Dimethoate-Fenthion Response Coordination Committee which includes representatives of the relevant federal and state agencies, grower groups, Horticulture Australia Limited, supermarkets, wholesale markets and other industry bodies. Because of the late start and the time required to research and approve new treatments, much of the focus has been on already approved protocols. This has included modifying existing treatments, for example low dose fumigation and extending treatments to more varieties, such as irradiation. Unfortunately some developments have been unable to proceed in a timely manner. Lack of certainty Both Steritech and a new player Horticulture Access Solutions have flagged new investment in irradiation facilities to cope with a possible explosion in demand.
Such expenditure requires certainty and needed the outcome of the reviews before they could proceed. That means there will be a lack of capacity until new facilities are commissioned.
Australian produce may be replaced by imported lines. Political aspect While the Committee has done its best to engage industry and focus on the science of fruit fly control, no one has taken on the political aspect.
Potential disruptions Prices may go through the roof in some parts of the country and collapse in others.
We should question whether it is cost effective to impose fruit fly controls on entire states including capital cities rather than the much smaller and less populated Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone.
The Australian public is blissfully unaware of the potential disruptions to markets that may soon be commonplace.
Queensland growers may soon find the barriers to sending produce to Melbourne and Adelaide have become much higher. This is despite the fact that neither of these cities is anywhere near the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone.
Consumers may find that they cannot buy certain produce lines when they want them. The quality of produce may be degraded by new treatments and
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Industry Fresh Connections conference highly recommended BY DENISE KREYMBORG, INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, BOWEN DISTRICT GROWERS ASSOCIATION The Bowen Strategic Horticulture Workforce and Skills Development working group has re-convened with a clear aim to attract more people into the horticulture industry at all levels, from farm managers and middle managers in leadership roles to seasonal skilled workers. The working group is an initiative of Bowen and Gumlu District Growers Association (BGDGA) in collaboration with the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI). As part of the working group’s collaboration with Bowen State High School, there will be a series of initiatives aimed at attracting students into horticulture through traineeships and industry partnership programs. The working group is also developing strategies around career pathways, recruitment and retention of workforce programs as well as the development of workforce skills at all levels within the horticulture industry. The project will need a coordinator to drive actions out of the recommendations for the group. Collaborating with Bundaberg growers There has been much discussion with Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers and BGDGA around cross region collaboration on topics such as career pathways and other key industry priorities. There is the potential for pilot programs and initiatives facilitated through the working group.
This strategic approach to managing key issues and priority areas within the horticulture industry fits with DEEDI's new Hort2020 program, where workforce and skills development is a high priority within horticulture. Agritourism marketing BGDGA is also working on the development of an Agritourism Strategic Marketing Plan to build linkages between both tourism and horticulture for a more sustainability future. There is potential of an interactive website to be developed to link food production and food consumption addressing the health benefits of fresh produce, availability locally, and community awareness of health promotion programs and initiatives. Systems approach BGDGA is also working collaboratively with researchers based at the Bowen DEEDI research station to develop a 'systems approach'. This is an option for market access domestically, if the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority’s review of Dimethoate and Fenthion delivers an outcome where the chemicals are no longer acceptable for use. Overall, it is great to see an enormous amount of collaboration, not only within the horticulture industry in dealing with issues and challenges for the future sustainability of the industry but across industries. It is an exciting future ahead for the horticulture industry.
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Crunch time for Australian apple producers From the first day of trading after New Zealand was given the green light to sell its apples in Australia, the kiwi media phoned Brisbane Markets to see if any was on its way. New Zealand apples have not been permitted to be sold in Australia for 89 years. The long running apple access dispute between New Zealand and Australia culminated in a three year legal dispute at the World Trade Organisation that was finally settled on appeal in New Zealand’s favour in late 2010. The Australian Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry then reviewed its quarantine policy and decided to allow the imports under a series of requirements. Within 72 hours of New Zealand being given the green light, the apples were in Australia and hours later, on the shelves. Some growers in the apple industry had thought they would not arrive until 2012.
There are concerns however, with many Australian growers believing that the industry could be devastated by the imports. Apple and Pear Australia (APAL) chairman John Lawrenson, said he believed the bacterial disease Fireblight, which is found in New Zealand, is likely to enter the country destroying apple and pear crops. A new campaign to fight the impact of imports was launched by APAL. Australian-grown apples are now labelled with the slogan “Aussie Apples” in a bid to counteract foreign produce, according to Mr Lawrenson. “The new stickers offer shoppers reassurance that they buying our delicious, Aussie Apples and by doing so supporting local growers, their families and regional communities across Australia,” he said.
Free Aussie oranges for Brisbane commuters Brisbane Markets wholesalers helped supply hundreds of oranges that were handed out to Brisbane commuters in August in a bid by Citrus Australia to get people buying oranges and supporting growers. The giveaway in Brisbane was at the Riverside City Cat terminal, while hundreds more Australians had a chance of tasting the sweet orange fruit with giveaways in other states. Citrus Australia CEO, Judith Damiani, said citrus growers were really struggling this season. She said for the past 10 years, growers have struggled against the crippling effects of the drought, and despite record rainfall and a bumper crop, the orange export market had buckled. “This year more than 240,000 tonnes of Aussie navels will be produced and the quality is exceptional,” Ms Damiani said
U DID YO ? KNOW
17-21 October is Export Week Each year Trade and Investment Queensland sets aside a week to run a program that recognises, promotes and assists with growing Queensland’s export businesses and industries. The state-wide program provides up-to-date trade and professional development information on growth sectors and market opportunities. It focuses on Queensland’s new, existing and internationally focused businesses. Events include staging of the annual export awards and holding breakfasts, business lunches and information forums. A full calendar of events is found at www.export.qld.gov.au/ export-week.html.
Industry Short reprieve from flying foxes Mangroves growing near Bundaberg’s Tallon Bridge have been noticeably bare as local fruit and vegetable growers enjoy a short reprieve from flying fox infestations. A Department of Environment and Resource Management survey of flying fox numbers, completed last week, found no flying foxes roosting at the bridge. Local growers have offered differing theories as to why the bats have migrated, and where to, but believe the colony will return, and in numbers. The pest has been noticeably absent from lychee and mango grower Craig Van Rooyen’s South Bingera orchards but he said celebrations would be premature. “It’s nice to have had a bit of a break from it all but I don’t know how long it’s going to last,” he said.
“We’ve had a lot of calls from people inquiring about how they can move them on and what they can do,” he said. Bundaberg growers have spearheaded a campaign against the State Government demanding the reinstatement of damage mitigation permits allowing them to shoot what are known as scouts, early arriving flying foxes that lead others back to food sources. Bundaberg Orchardists Association president John Kajewski said the reduction in flying fox numbers was temporary and no reason to give up the fight. “So far we have been presented with no viable non-lethal methods of control,” he said. He said recent outbreaks of Hendra virus highlighted the need for action
“We’re actually sparing a thought for the farmers living near wherever these bats have gone because we know what it’s like.”
“Growers are concerned about the welfare of their families and their workers,” he said.
The winged pests are believed to have moved to other areas because of destruction to native habitat and food sources wreaked by the January floods.
A spokesman for the Queensland Department of Resources and Environmental Management said the size of colonies could vary as individual animals left and joined colonies at other roost sites.
The lull in flying fox numbers also coincides with the lychee and mango off-season, with trees lying dormant between June and October. The absence of the bats has coincided with the arrival of a large colony in Bargara roosting on residential land on Woongarra Scenic Drive. There are also suggestions the bats have travelled to Gayndah to feast on citrus, or flown further west to native forests.
“Unless animals are fitted with tracking devices, there is no way of confirming in this instance whether the flying foxes have joined roosts at Bargara or Gayndah,” he said. - Source: Bundaberg News Mail and Fresh Pickings magazine
Mr Van Rooyen said while many growers had ideas as to where the bats had roosted, there was consensus they would return to their old feeding ground. “I don’t think too many people doubt they’ll be back,” he said. Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers chairman Geoff Chivers said the organisation had been inundated with calls from people in Bargara and Gayndah about how to deal with the pests.
SOUTH BINGERA ORCHARDIST CRAIG VAN ROOYEN EXPECTS IT WILL BE A SHORT REPRIEVE FROM FLYING FOX ACTIVITY ON HIS FARM.
21
Downsizing may have unplanned impacts BY SAL TRUJILLO, BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED HUMAN RESOURCES ADVISOR. Due to the current global economic crisis, an increasing number of companies are downsizing their current workforce with the aim to reduce costs quickly. Consequently, effective downsizing has become a contemporary issue causing companies to turn to the human resource profession for answers. Downsizing can cause an undesirable impact upon the organisation’s workforce as survivors tend to find themselves with increased workloads and responsibilities with limited support and training to take on these added pressures. This situation can affect productivity and performance, through poor staff morale and lack of trust, which can contribute to increase expenses as opposed to the projected savings. Consequently, organisations must consider alternatives that do not include outright dismissal. For example: • Hiring Freeze which occurs when an organisation implements a “no hiring” policy, then allows the natural processes of terminations, retirements, voluntary turnover to reduce the work force. • Freezing salary and benefit increases. This can be viewed as less stringent by employees. However,
organisations must review this decision periodically and provide a time frame in which employees can expect an update. • Job Sharing where two employees work part-time at a job that would require only a single full-time employee. • Most importantly, asking for cost reduction ideas from staff members. Organisations opting to downsize their workforce should look for areas of poor performance and cost within the organisation. Downsize strategically that is “cut the fat, not the muscle”. Business leaders should reflect on organisational goals and objectives as the downsizing activities need to improve organisationalperformance, and therefore needs to be communicated and reiterated to employees. Organisations must ensure equity and fairness during effective downsizing. This is due to the fact that firms may face legal problems if layoffs are not handled properly. It is advisable to check industrial relations instruments which apply to the organisation. Remember: the first people to leave due to uncertainty in the company are the best people, because they can always get another job somewhere else.
Industry Myrtle rust aims its sights on Australian bush foods As Queensland waits in anticipation for the first sign of spring, a team of biosecurity officers is holding their breath for a different reason. Myrtle rust, a serious plant disease that was recently found in Queensland, is set to flourish in the warmer weather and Biosecurity Queensland is gearing up for a busy spring and summer.
HEAVILY INFECTED MELALEUCA QUINQUENERVIA BROAD-LEAF PAPER BARK
“If you are receiving plants or plant material from interstate suppliers or from within Queensland you should thoroughly check the consignment to make sure it is free from myrtle rust symptoms, and vice versa if you’re sending plants,” he said.
Director of the Myrtle Rust Program, Mike Ashton said the disease affected plants in the Myrtaceae family which included many grown for bush foods.
“If you are planning on sending plants to any other state or territory, there are conditions that you will need to adhere to. For more information check the website or call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.
“We are calling on all Australian bush food producers to help us track down where myrtle rust is in Queensland,” Mr Ashton said.
“Myrtle rust has also recently been found for the first time in Townsville nurseries and for a second time in a Cairns nursery.
Plants grown for bush foods that have already been found to be affected by myrtle rust include:
“It is disappointing that the disease has recently been found in nurseries outside of south east Queensland where it is known to be quite widespread.
Acmena spp. Anetholea ansiata – Aniseed Myrtle Backhousia citriodora – Lemon Myrtle Backhousia myrtifolia – Cinnamon Myrtle Melaleuca quinquenervia – Broad-leaf Paperbark Rhodomyrtus psidioides – Native Guava Syzygium australe – Brush Cherry Syzygium luehmannii – Riberry. “We know myrtle rust cannot be contained or eradicated but the more we know about the disease the more we can learn about how to manage it and its potential impacts,” Mr Ashton said. “I encourage everyone to visit the Biosecurity Queensland website for pictures of the disease, a full list of the plants affected by myrtle rust and information about treatment options.” Myrtle rust is also known to be widespread in some coastal areas of New South Wales.
“Using good biosecurity practices including regularly checking plants for symptoms, isolating new consignments of plants and cleaning equipment and clothing are very easy steps to help slow the spread of myrtle rust and protect your business.” The first signs of myrtle rust are tiny raised purple spots or pustules on new leaves. After a few days, the pustules erupt into distinctive, fluffy-looking eggyolk yellow spores. “Myrtle rust attacks young, soft, actively growing leaves, shoot tips and young stems, as well as fruits and flower parts of susceptible plants,” he said. “If left untreated, myrtle rust can cause deformation of leaves, heavy defoliation of branches, dieback, stunted growth and even plant death.” For more information on myrtle rust or to report a detection call 13 25 23 or visit www.biosecurity.qld.gov.au
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National OH&S laws to be ‘harmonised’ BY LISA DWYER, BRISMARK EMPLOYMENT SERVICES MANAGER On the 1 January 2012, new national Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) laws are being introduced that will harmonise the many different legislations across Australia. Between now and this date, the current State and Territory health and safety legislation will be completely overhauled and a new set of national, harmonised OH&S laws will be formed. This means businesses, including those within the horticulture industry, will need to adjust to a whole host of new safety duties and responsibilities. Here are just a few examples of the changes you will have to deal with:
Increase in Penalties and Fines: Already the foundation has been laid for a massive increase in penalties and fines. Under new laws, corporations can face fines of up to $3 million per offence, while individuals can face fines of $600,000 and/or five years in jail. There are many more changes that will require adjustments by businesses. In short, if you manage people or are responsible for OH&S matters in any capacity, ‘harmonisation’ will affect you and your business. For more information, visit www. safeworkaustralia.gov.au/Legislation/ Pages/ModelWHSLegislation.aspx
Adjustment to a completely new set of safety obligations: If you are an ‘officer’ of a company (i.e. director or manager) you will be obliged by law to exercise ‘due diligence’ at all times. This means you will have a legal responsibility to keep informed about health and safety matters, and act immediately on any OH&S risks that are brought to your attention. Responsibility for the health and safety of a lot more people: The new laws will place a requirement on anyone who conducts a business or undertaking to provide a safe workplace for all employees and workers. Under the new laws, this will include contractors and labour hire workers.
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Industry Queensland farmers the big winners from the carbon farming Initiative BY ROD GLASS, CARBON CAPITAL The carbon tax has been the major story in the media since its announcement by the Gillard Government in February of this year. The press it has received leaves Australian businesses wondering if there has been any other news in the Australian political system other than this topic. This has been a time of upheaval within the general public, not seen since the introduction of the Good and Services Tax over a decade ago. The real news that has remained unreported is the Carbon Farming Initiative (CFI). The CFI legislation has passed both houses of Parliament and will provide for carbon offsets, and thus, a pipeline of projects and money for the bush. Great confusion exists for the average business in this country trying to wade through Government and Opposition rhetoric on this issue to determine how this will affect business. So for a quick snap shot: • About 65% of Australia’s 600 million tonnes of carbon is caught within the legislation. • Depending on which emissions are in or out, around 500 businesses will be affected, including export related mining and energy providers. These 500 businesses will be allowed to utilise carbon offsets (which in most cases will need to be lower than the $23 per tonne) for 5% of their emissions. • This leaves farmers and other community groups a market of around 20 million tonnes of offsets every year. Queensland is the big winner, according to many reports, with a potential of two-thirds of all offsets to be created, worth over $300 million.
The carbon farming initiative is the legislation that will provide the methods that will allow agribusiness to implement carbon projects. It will allow the businesses to measure decreases in agricultural emissions or increases in natural forests and package carbon offsets for sale, both domestically and potentially for export markets. These decreases in emissions will be packaged, as with any agricultural commodity. The business will need to determine the cost of the offsets and the potential return from the market. The different methodologies will have vastly different costs depending on the capital and operating costs of the individual ventures. These projects are potentially another income source for businesses. Bringing another gross margin into your business will use all the skills of our business managers to make good choices. As with all new ventures income and expenditure will need to be determined, along with the capital infrastructure requirements. The development of carbon offsets, like any new industry, will require prudent decision making. It is a new industry and care should be taken. Methodologies could include the planting of trees, in some cases not cutting them down, flaring of methane, reducing nitrogen usage and fire management. There are many more ideas. Agricultural emissions will not be included in the carbon tax and will not be included in the emission trading system, as happened with fresh food under the GST. Food will always remain the sacred cow with the Australian public. What voter will knowingly put up food prices? Carbon offset projects are a real opportunity in boosting on farm income.
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Hobart venue for 2012 AUSVEG convention AUSVEG, the national peak industry body representing around 9,000 vegetable and potato growers, will hold its 2012 National Convention at Wrest Point Hotel Casino in Hobart, from 10-12 May. The third annual event includes a convention, trade show and national award for excellence, and is set to build on the success of the 2011 event held in Brisbane, which attracted close to 1,000 delegates. As in 2011, nominations for an Awards of Excellence will called closer to the event. There were 12 award winners this year, including: Women in Horticulture Award - Deborah Corrigan, VIC Environmental Award - Rodney Emerick, QLD Central Markets of Australia Innovative Marketing Award - Mitolo Group, VIC Industry Impact Award - Rohan Prince, WA Young Grower of the Year Award - Andrew Bulmer, VIC Rising Star of the Year Award - Tom Hunt, QLD Industry Recognition Award - Max McKenna, TAS Researcher of the Year Award - Denis Persley, QLD Productivity Partner - Peracto, TAS Grower of the Year Award - Sam Calameri, WA Chairman’s Award - Jeff McSpedden, NSW Lifetime Achievement Award - Kevin Clayton Greene, TAS Three other special award categories, not open for public nomination, included: The Premier’s Award - David Anderson of Shoalwater, WA. AUSVEG Lifetime Achievement Award - Luis Gazzola of Gazzola Farms in Somerville AUSVEG Industry Leader Award - Andrew Meurant of Elders.
National food policy conference planned A national food conference, to be held in Hobart in November, will look to ensure health and nutrition form a major focus for the development of a national food policy. The Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA) National Food Futures Conference will be held from 22-23 November at the Grand Chancellor Hotel, Hobart. The program focuses on the need to develop collaborative efforts across health, agriculture, environment and related sectors so there is greater access and sustainability for Australia’s food supply. A key topic will be the link between agriculture and health. For further information, contact Janine Turnbull at marketing@phaa.net.au or 02 62852373.
Industry Fruit and Vegetable Week inspired by movie A new campaign to promote healthy eating within Australia begins in November after its official launch at the 2011 Fresh Connections Conference, in Brisbane.
He said the community would be provided with information and tools, and would tie together initiatives from different stakeholders, including government departments.
Fruit and Vegetable Week has been set for 12-20 November 2011, the same time a Film Maker and Entrepreneur Joe Cross releases his pro-fresh produce movie ‘Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead’.
“This is not about telling people to do anything,” Mr Worthington said. “It’s about inspiring and empowering.
The aim of the week is to increase the general consumption of fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds and other plant matter.
“It is something that will make the general population sit up. With the huge obesity problems we have in this country, now is the time to act.”
Mr Cross’ movie is a working example of the impact a diet high in fruit and vegetable can have on the overall health and well being of an individual. Produce Marketing Association – Australia New Zealand CEO Michael Worthington said the industry needs to use some of the things Mr Cross says in his movie to see whether the industry can use it as a springboard to encourage healthier eating. “Fruit and Vegetable Week will be one week of the year where the whole community is focusing upon the consumption of fruit and vegetable,” Mr Worthington said.
PMA-NZ CEO MICHAEL WORTHINGTON AND HIS ASSISTANT ON A RECENT VISIT TO BRISBANE MARKETS.
Rainbow fruit and vegies for kids The avocado industry has launched a campaign to encourage early childhood educators to teach children to eat a rainbow of colourful vegies and fruit’. Avocado Australia’s “Eating my colourful vegies and fruit” gives educators the tools to encourage children to try new things, ear more green plant foods and test
out the tastes of different coloured fruits and vegetables. Avocados are the focus of the campaign and are ideal as a ‘green’ vegetable to try because of their nutritional requirements in a child’s diet. Participating childcare centers in metropolitan areas were forwarded trays of avocados, some unripe and others ready to eat, to ensure the avocados would be eaten over a two week period.
Got a
red hot
issue?
Brisbane Markets Hotline 1800 631 002
BPM9586/C
When you have a red hot issue you need a red hot response. That’s why the Brisbane Produce Market introduced its Hotline for growers. Jointly funded by Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) and Brismark, the Hotline aims to improve communication between growers and the wholesaling sector. By calling the free Hotline, growers have access to a confidential and responsive service to answer queries and to listen to concerns. Freecall 24 hours a day - callers between 7.30am - 3.30pm will be answered personally, while after hours callers can leave a message which will be promptly returned on the next business day, or visit our website www.brisbanemarkets.com.au or phone the free Grower Hotline on 1800 631 002.
Retailing First win, for the first winners Fruit & Veg 4 U in Arundel Plaza on Napper Road has been awarded the July Brisbane Produce Market Retailer of the Month award. The monthly accolade, from the Brisbane Produce Market, recognises excellence in fruit and vegetable retailing.
FROM LEFT: PATRICIA, CHRISTIAN (BACK), SABRINA AND DOMENIC MATRUGLIO PROUDLY DISPLAY THEIR TROPHY FOR WINNING THE AUGUST RETAILER OF THE MONTH.
Domenic and Patricia Matruglio manage the northern Gold Coast store and their children Christian and Sabrina help out when they are not working as an electrician and student respectively. “It is a family business, servicing local families. We are so proud, this is our first
win as the Retailer of the Month from the Brisbane Produce Market,” said Domenic Matruglio. “I do all the buying at the Brisbane Markets selecting the best produce at the best prices and Patricia is on top of everything else here at the store,” Mr Matruglio said. “We scored well in the key area of customer service, this is the hardest component to control in a retail store. I know the quality is good because I personally buy all the produce on the shelves but it is great to know my team back it up with above and beyond service. “
A tough year on Bribie makes an August win sweeter The August winner of the Brisbane Produce Market Retailer of the Month award is one of the oldest buying brands in the Market and their win could not have come at a better time. Wrights Bribie Fruit Barn, located on Coolgarra Avenue, is an iconic fixture on Bribie Island, but in February, a multinational fast food tenant took up residence next door, resulting in road closures and loss of car parking. What was already tough year for greengrocers was made nearly impossible for this family business.
the toughest period in the life of the shop, is an amazing feat. “ Ms Wust stresses that the team mentality of her employees is one of the major factors in the win and is now anxiously waiting to see if her next round of results will be just as good. “We always look to the future and now I want to compete for the Retailer of the Year, fingers crossed we get there,” she said.
“This is not an uncommon tale for small business, we understand the need for development but not at the cost of a business with a loyal customer base of locals,” said owner Ms Jackie Wust. “We have always participated in the Brisbane Produce Market retailer program and it has been a few years since we won a monthly award in the mystery shopping. To win Retailer of the Month during what has arguably been
JACKIE WUST (MIDDLE, HOLDING TROPHY) AND HER TEAM HAVE PULLED TOGETHER DURING TOUGH TIMES TO WIN THE AWARD FOR AUGUST.
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Advertorial
Toyota Material Handling moves to larger premises One of the leading suppliers of forklifts to the Brisbane Markets – Toyota Material Handling – is moving to new, purpose built, larger premises close to the Logan Motorway at Larapinta. The move will provide a raft of benefits for all of Toyota Material Handling’s new and existing forklift and skid steer loader customers, including those located at the Brisbane Markets and its associated businesses.
delivery times for new equipment and improve technician training. “Our new 6000 m2 workshop is state-of-the-art and three times the size of the current premises and will have twice as many work bays, as well as larger loading/unloading areas and a customer waiting lounge,” Mr Williams said.
wash-bay using recycled water and overhead gantry, as well as storage space for new stock and short-term rental forklifts. There is 1000m2 of office space, 6000m2 of hard-stand area for loading and unloading, as well as a unit showroom and technician training facility.
“We expect the new workshop to increase efficiencies through better organisation and by providing higher service levels to valued Brisbane Markets and associated fresh fruit and vegetable industries customers.”
Toyota Material Handling in Queensland has 95 staff members, including 60 technicians, eight apprentices, six in spare parts, plus 13 in sales and eight in operations.
As of early September, the new home for Toyota Material Handling is 20 Radius Drive, Larapinta. It’s new number is 07 3845 0210.
Mr Williams said the new premises would also increase the speed of machine delivery by bringing storage of new machines onto the same site as the pre-delivery workshop.
For all existing customers, the previous Darra point of contact is now located at the new Toyota Material Handling Radius Drive location.
“We have 30 repair service bays and 30 pre-delivery bays, with space to grow the workshop as required and also to handle additional products in the future,” he said.
“We are proud of our strong relationship with the Brisbane Markets and associated businesses, and on behalf of Toyota Material Handling I thank all our customers for their continued support, and look forward to continuing to provide you with outstanding material handling solutions”, Mr Williams said.
Dan Williams, Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) General Manager Northern Region, said the move would raise service levels, reduce
There is a customer lounge, spray booth,
Toyota Material Handling has been based in Darra since 1988 at 24 Machinery Street.
events
Calendar 14 October
4-9 November
BRISBANE MARKETS MANGO AUCTION BRISBANE MARKETS, ROCKLEA, QLD
2011 GOOD FOOD & WINE SHOW BRISBANE CONVENTION AND EXHIBITION CENTRE
Contact: Amy Kearns on 07 3915 4200 or email akearns@brisbanemarkets.com.au. An annual fundraising event on the Central Trading Floor including entertainment and auctions, and bidding on the symbolic first tray of mangoes.
19-21 October BERRY QUEST 2011 RYDGES HOTEL, CALOUNDRA, QLD Contact: Natalie Bell, Mountain Blue Orchards on 02 6624 8258, 0413 611 336 or natalie@mountainblue.com.au. A combined Australian Strawberries and Blueberries conference, including field day trips, a tour of the Brisbane Markets and annual general meetings.
23-26 October CITRUS AUSTRALIA NATIONAL CONFERENCE NOVOTEL BAROSSA VALLEY RESORT, SOUTH AUSTRALIA Contact: Citrus Australia on 03 5023 6333 or email admin@citrusaustralia.com.au. Up to 350 citrus industry representatives will network, hear speakers, attend field trips and be part of a trade exhibition.
Contact: Karyn Manktelow on 07 3225 2770. Queensland’s finest food and beverage displays go on show in an event organised by the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation.
14-20 November FRUIT AND VEGETABLE WEEK CAMPAIGNS THROUGHOUT AUSTRALIA A week launched at the Produce Marketing Association Australia New Zealand Fresh Connections conference earlier in the year, to increase the general consumption of fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds and other plant matter.
22-23 November NATIONAL FOOD FUTURES CONFERENCE GRAND CHANCELLOR, HOBART, TAS Contact: Janine Turnbull on 02 62852373 or email marketing@phaa.net.au. A conference that focuses on development of a national food policy, organised by the Public Health Association of Australia.
2011 BML Telephone Directory
BER 2011
PUBLISHED SEPTEM
A new Brisbane Markets Telephone Directory is landing on the desks of tenants and anyone within the industry who wants to keep in touch with the Brisbane Markets. Level 2, Fresh Centre Sherwood Road, Rocklea e Markets 4106 PO Box 80, Brisban T (07) 3915 4200 ts.com.au E admin@brisbanemarke 017 ACN 064 983 017
ABN 39 064 983
ine
Maintenance Hotl
1800 610 064 made to ensure the Every effort has been n contained in accuracy of the informatio time of printing. this publication at the gives no warranty Brisbane Markets Limited n. regarding this informatio
Watch out for some additional features this year including a new centre page spread Markets site map.
This year’s directory will also be available online when BML’s website is upgraded later this year - www.brisbanemarkets.com.au. Anyone wanting a copy of the directory can phone Kelly Turner on 07 3915 4200 or email kturner@brisbanemarkets.com.au.
TRUST ZUPPS
FOR TRUCKS
• Convenient Rocklea location - ideal for Brisbane • 24 hour after sales and parts support Markets operators • Vehicle servicing between 7am & 11pm every working day or Saturday morning. • Nobody beats Zupps on price • Full range of FUSO trucks from the 2 tonne CANTER (only requires car license) to the heavy duty FIGHTER range
• In field service unit can come to you – saves you time and money
Zupps Trucks Centre Rocklea 143 Marshall Rd, Rocklea
zupps.com.au/trucks
Ph: 07 3320 7777 A/H: Graham 0407 377 706 Brendan 0400 705 224 Brendon 0407 646 529 Garry 0428 709 862
*Source: Logistik Journal 2009
Guess who’s the number one forklift choice in the Australian markets? It really is no surprise that Toyota Material Handling sells more forklifts than any other company in the Australian Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Markets. With Australia’s biggest range of forklifts and the commitment to customer service and after-sales
support you’d expect from the market leader*, we guarantee to deliver the best quality material handling solutions all year round, no matter what the season. So give us a call and get a fresh forklift deal today.
1800 425 438 www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au
S O L U T I O N S
F O R
E V E R Y
P A L L E T®