FS38

print post approved pp 424022/00429

ISSUE: THIRTY-EIGHT DECEMBER/2011

#

Magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited

2010/2011

flood recovery g r e b a d n u B

PORT ANNUAL RE

A story of halves and flood p9

Bundy Pride launched in

p22

illegal mangoes

Quarantine dog sniffs out

p5

source

YOUR SOURCE OF FRESH INFORMATION FOR THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE INDUSTRY.

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c e o ’s BML’s Results Released

Comme nt

3

The reluctance of some industry leaders to achieve a

Brisbane Markets Limited recently announced its results for the 2010/11 financial year.

workable and collaborative outcome is mind boggling.

While the result was an overall loss because of write-downs in property values following the January floods, the company did achieve an operating surplus (see story page 9).

resists moves for further regulation of the industry

Year in Review

Post Flood Update

This is the final edition of Fresh Source for 2011 and it features a review of one of the most challenging years on record for many in the fresh produce industry.

While it has been a year of recovery for the Markets, there have also been numerous positive highlights, and some heart touching stories, such as the crowning of the 2011 Mango King, Carlo Lorenti, and the valuable contribution this event makes to two very worthy charities (see story page 14).

In reinstating the Markets following January’s floods,

Fresh Centre

digital CCTV security cameras, new open protocol fire

The newly refurbished Fresh Centre, the head office for BML and Brismark, is open for business.

distribution boards.

This building was formerly the Jewel in the Crown of what was the Committee of Direction (COD) corporate empire however, time had taken its toll and it had fallen into disrepair. The refurbishment has seen this old building transform into a spacious and modern office complex which will be the new commercial hub for the Markets.

Nobody should be surprised if the wholesaling sector when there has clearly been no consultation, or any consideration of the commercial practicalities of some of the proposals on the table.

BML has also taken the opportunity to upgrade various aspects of site infrastructure so as to take advantage of changing technology. This came at a substantial additional cost, but it has ensured that what is now in place is much improved compared to what we previously had. Upgrading has occurred in numerous areas including the move from analogue to indication panels and upgraded electricity meters and Season’s Greetings On behalf of BML and Brismark, I wish everyone a safe and happy festive season, and after the challenging year that we have had, above all, a healthy and prosperous 2012.

Horticulture Code The renewed focus on the Horticulture Code should be a signal that the Industry should get together and agree to a workable outcome which can achieve something meaningful in promoting good commercial practices.

Andrew Young, Chief Executive Officer

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 DESIGN Effigy p: 07 3040 4343 | PRINT Buckner Printing p: 07 3865 9677

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.

Fresh Source is printed on Australian made recycled stock.

Contents FRESH UPDATES FRESH WHOLESALING New Brismark board members elected. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Linking fruit to healthy eating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 World recognition for Brisbane Markets photo ���������� 7 Save the date for a gala time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 New visitor entry for the Brisbane Markets ������������������ 8

FEATURE: ANNUAL REPORT 2010/11 Annual Report a story of halves. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Road to recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Annual general meeting a time to reflect. . . . . . . . . . . 11 Trucking theme apt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

FRESH FROM THE MARKETS New Market logos gradually rolled out. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Industry visitors explore the Markets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Grower kits explain the system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

MANGO AUCTION 2011. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 THE YEAR IN REVIEW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 FRESH INDUSTRY New banana’s CEO appointed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gavin Scurr new AMIA Chairman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The price on carbon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Collaboration across industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pro-active approach to performance management. .

Catching up with wholesalers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bundy Pride launched in Bundaberg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Working from home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Landmark Biosecurity Bill introduced. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Malaysian pineapples quarantine risk. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

On-line technology proves it worth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

18 18 19 20 21 22 22 23 24 24 25

FRESH KIDS

Updates Name change in Bowen and Gumlu Bowen and Gumlu District Growers Association has dropped the word ‘District’ from its name to now be known as the Bowen and Gumlu Growers Association, or the BGGA. A new logo is currently being designed to reflect the work the BGGA conducts in the horticulture industry in Queensland’s north.

Find out more about the district through the BGGA’s Industry Development Officer Denise Kreymborg’s column on page 20.

Almost half of Australians failing to eat their five-a-day vegetables Almost half of Australian adults are failing to meet the recommended daily intake of vegetables due to ‘lack of convenience’, according to a survey by kitchenware brand Tefal.

The Tefal survey of 2,500 Australians revealed that 45% of Australians failed to meet the recommended daily intake of five vegetable portions. Of these people, 39% said that preparing and cooking vegetables wasn’t convenient as part of their busy lifestyle, and this was a major impediment to vegetable consumption.

FRESH RETAILING

The survey found the second biggest barrier to consuming vegetables was a lack of culinary skills, with 37% of people stating that they often avoided vegetables as they weren’t confident about how to prepare and cook them.

Greengrocer retail trends. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Super sweet September at Samford Village Greens 29 Not short on supply at Boonah greengrocer ��������������29

Of those surveyed, 15% claimed they weren’t aware they should be consuming five portions of vegetables a day in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Healthy eating program hits a high note. . . . . . . . . . . . 26

FRESH CHRISTMAS Holiday season trading hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Foodbank readying for Christmas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Find out how Brisbane Markets is pushing the Go for 2 & 5 message through our schools with our Queensland Kids Fresh Net report on page 26.

5

Brismark’s Credit Service an industry leader Brismark’s high-tech Credit Service is processing more than $600 million worth of transactions a year with its software gaining interest from other Central Markets throughout Australia.

Find out more about this service that has become an industry leader over the past decade in the report on page 24.

Aussie fruit labeling sticking around With New Zealand apples now making their way into Australia, watch out for more “Made in Australia” stickers on your fruit.

New Zealand apples are now available in Australia for the first time in 90 years following Bio-Security Australia’s decision to change import regulations.

So Australian apple growers called for a standard ‘Aussie Apple’ sticker on all fruit so consumers can easily identify which apples are home-grown.

Meanwhile a new label for 100% Australian grown fruit juice has been launched by citrus growers.

Growers say current labels are misleading and can make it difficult to find Aussie juice.

Citrus Australia CEO Judith Damiani said the new labels will mean consumers won’t have to read the fine print to know their juice is Australian.

“There are so many different products and it is difficult to tell what is Australian and what’s imported,” Mrs Damiani said.

Quarantine dog sniffs out illegal mangoes A passenger from Brisbane was caught smuggling mangoes and other high risk material into Perth airport after the fruit’s scent was picked up by a trusty sniffer dog.

The dog identified a suitcase containing 92 mangoes, a banana palm, herbs, seeds and a sugar cane.

WA has a thriving banana and mango industry with a pest free status that could be harmed by the illegal movement of fruit across its border.

Detector dog Oscar, who has been with the Western Australian quarantine team since 2008, located the haul which has surprised authorities at the numbers of mangoes that could be packed into a suitcase.

5

TOP

Brismark staff members Sandra Griffiths and Simone Maclean work on the Brismark Credit Service invoices, which are now all on- line.

“Made in Australia is a little bit of a looser term, where they can actually bring in imported juice and transform it and manufacture it here in Australia and add a little bit of local content or whatever and still call it made in Australia.”

reasons to visit the Brisbane Markets

1. Meet with your wholesaler/s and get a feel for their business 2. See how your product is marketed and sold on the trading floor 3. Compare your product quality, sizing and packaging with that of your competitors 4. Inspect the cool chain process 5. Discuss industry issues, industry food safety requirements, product specifications and terms of trade.

Read more about visiting the Brisbane Markets on page 13 or book your group’s visit by emailing Vanessa Kennedy at vkennedy@brisbanemarkets.com.au

Wholesaling New Brismark board members elected Brismark welcomed two new Board members to its team at its recent annual general meeting.

Hamish Montague, principal of Montague Fresh (Qld) was elected to the Board for the first time from a strong field of contenders at a well attended meeting.

He was joined by United Lettuce principal Mark Murphy, who returns to the Board after a one year break.

They join fellow board members Chairman Gary Lower, Deputy Chairman Tony Joseph, Secretary Peter Tighe, and Directors, Anthony Gribben, Mark Clarke, Drew Armstrong, Mark Moore, Stephen Edwards and Noel Greenhalgh.

Outgoing board members Craig Chard (So Crisp) and Gary Lavender (Lavender & Sons) were thanked for their contribution during their time on the Brismark Executive.

TWO NEW FACES FOR BRISMARK BOARD – HAMISH MONTAGUE (TOP) AND MARK MURPHY.

Linking fruit to healthy eating The generosity of Brismark has again helped a charity event with apples and mandarins which were handed out to more than 5,000 riders and volunteers who took part in a long distance bicycle challenge.

Brismark supplied the three bins of fruit to Diabetes Australia Queensland and the Queensland Heart Foundation to reenergize participants at the end of the annual Gold Coast Cycle Challenge, and to align the healthy eating message with activity.

The cycle challenge was 100km, from Brisbane’s South Bank to the Southport Broadwater Park finish line.

Brisbane Produce Market received high praise for the donation in the Diabetes Australia Queensland newsletter.

They noted the link between the Markets and themselves was a healthy one to foster considering the importance of healthy eating reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

7

World recognition for Brisbane Markets photo The world has 12 months to admire the fresh produce and bright coloured displays found on the Brisbane Produce Market floor with a photo taken of the fruit and vegetable displays winning an international competition.

A young man in the midst of a Quality Fruits display will take up position on the 2012 World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) calendar that will be distributed around the world.

The WUWM ran a global 2011 Market Photo Competition to select the best 12 calendar photos.

The winning photo is one from a collection taken for Brisbane Markets Limited by professional photographer Kylie Hood, from Kylie Hood Photography.

WUWM Secretary General Maria Cavit said the photograph was the perfect shot for the calendar to promote the life, colour and vibrancy of markets.

Save the date for a gala time Mark your diaries to save the date for the biggest social event on the Market calendar.

The Brisbane Produce Market Gala Dinner will be held Friday, 23 March 2012 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

BRISBANE MARKETS PHOTOGRAPH A WORLD COMPETITION WINNER.

Refrigerated services...Superior logistics solutions

BRISBANE MARKETS TO CENTRAL WEST NSW

> TWICE WEEKLY

Up to 600 wholesalers, retailers and industry representatives will be wining, dining and dancing the night away.

The coveted Retailer of the Year award will also be announced.

For more information, contact Amy Kearns on 07 3915 4200 or email akearns@brisbanemarkets.com.au.

WE SERVICE: MOREE • NARRABRI • COONABARABRAN • GILGANDRA • DUBBO • PARKES FORBES • CONDOBOLIN • ORANGE • BATHURST & OTHER AREAS ON ENQUIRY.

Call 02 6392 8800 or visit www.rft.net.au

from the

Markets New visitor entry for the Brisbane Markets A new entry greets visitors to the Brisbane Markets from this month with the opening of an undercover walkway from the main entrance across to the new Fresh Centre.

At the time of writing, work on the car park and landscaping was progressing quickly. Visitors will be able to drive directly into the car park between the new building and the existing Commercial Centre.

if required, and learn the safety rules before gaining entry to the Markets.

The former Site Services building, at the Sherwood Road entrance to the Markets is now home to the Brisbane Markets maintenance team.

Pedestrian entry and exit arrangements have also changed, with this now being through the turnstile beside the former Site Services building. For security reasons, this access point requires a Brisbane Markets access card (swipe card) to gain entry.

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) and Brismark’s administration teams relocated into the top level of the Fresh Centre in November. Access to these offices is via an elevator at the southern end of the lobby.

The Brismark Credit is located on the ground floor, next to the new Site Service Centre, and opposite The CafĂŠ, which will open its doors before Christmas.

The Site Service Centre is where visitors will sign in, pick up a high visibility vest,

ENTERING AND EXITING THE BRISBANE MARKETS FOR THOSE WITH ACCESS CARDS IS THROUGH A TURNSTILE, ON THE NEW COVERED WALKWAY.

9

Annual Report 2010/11 Annual Report a story of halves and flood recovery Brisbane Markets Limited has released its 2010/11 Annual Report with a tale of a year split into halves – the first six months financially on track and the last, a massive recovery effort, after the site’s devastation from the January 2011 flood.

The result is the company’s first loss since buying the Brisbane Markets in 2002. The flood recovery came at a reported net loss for the year of $3.345 million.

Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew Young said considering the extent of the damage that was presented in the hours after the flood waters receded, such a loss was not unexpected.

Mr Young said there had been a steady level of confidence post-flood within the Brisbane Markets.

“Market-based businesses showed remarkable fortitude in the face of natural disaster with no business exiting the site,” he said.

ANNUAL REPORT 2010/2011

“The retail centre adjacent to Sherwood Road was hit hard by the floods however, with three businesses choosing not to return.”

“The management of the recovery is to be applauded and the position we were in by 30 June 2011 is manageable,” Mr Young said.

“While we ended the financial year with a loss, we achieved an operating surplus of $5.649 million.

“At the end of the financial year, we had received only part of our insurance payout, with finalisation of the claim, which is estimated to be around $16 million, expected in the 2011/12 financial year.”

The Brisbane Markets Commercial Centre just days after the January 2011 flood.

The same stretch of Commercial Centre in November 2011.

Brisbane Markets Limited’s mission is to provide infrastructure and services to facilitate the development and operation of a world-class marketing and distribution hub for fresh produce, flowers and other ancillary products.

from the

Markets

Annual Report 2010/11

Road to recovery outstanding Brisbane Markets chairman Tony Joseph said that the Markets was up to the challenge posed by the January 2011 floods and weather incidents around Queensland that brought financial hardship to the whole industry.

In the recently released 2010/11 Annual Report, Mr Joseph said that the road to recovery had been outstanding.

“Absolute priority was given by Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) to getting businesses trading as quickly as possible to reduce the ongoing impact on Market tenants,” Mr Joseph said.

“Our bank’s confidence was clearly shown in the timing of its decision, in the weeks after the January 2011 flood, despite negotiations having started in October 2010.

“Against this backdrop, BML remains in a strong position to respond to current market conditions, and is well placed in terms of control of its capital expenditure program and funding requirements.”

“The Markets community has survived, recovered, then built on its firm foundations so it is as close to businessas-usual as possible.”

Mr Joseph said the Board’s vision to develop the site was well underway leading up to the flood.

“Work paused briefly during the initial flood recovery period, but just days later, many of the contractors returned to work,” Mr Joseph said.

“This saw a number of projects almost ready for handover at the end of the financial year, which has since been completed.”

Mr Joseph referred to the fact that BML’s bankers had approved a debt funding facility of $110 million.

BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED CHAIRMAN TONY JOSEPH: “BML REMAINS IN A STRONG POSITION TO RESPOND TO THE CURRENT MARKET CONDITIONS”.

Brisbane Markets profile Brisbane Markets is the State’s major

distributed from the Rocklea site by

marketing and distribution hub for

truck, rail, air and sea throughout

the supply of fresh fruit, vegetables

Australia and overseas.

and flowers, and is one of only six Central Markets and in Australia.

The Brisbane Markets recorded an annual trade in the 2010/11

Its 77 hectare site is approximately

financial year in excess of 600,000

11km from the Brisbane CBD. Fresh

tonnes of produce, valued at more

fruit and vegetables are sold and

than $1 billion.

BML operates on a commercial basis as an unlisted public company, with in excess of 150 predominantly industry-based shareholders, including growers, wholesalers, secondary wholesalers, retailers and the industry organisation, Brismark.

Up to 3,500 people work or do business at the site each day.

11

Annual general meeting a time to reflect Brisbane Markets Limited’s (BML) 2010/11 Annual Report was released to shareholders ahead of the General Meeting in November.

CEO Andrew Young said it was an opportunity to reflect just how damaging the January 2011 floods were, and the great strides that have been taken since the water flowed through the site.

At the time of the disaster, government and industry paid tribute to our recovery efforts.

He said 10 months later, he was still amazed at the resilience of the Market tenants, what has been achieved to restore the site and then progress many

of the plans that were well in place before the water inundation occurred.

The AGM was the first to be held in the refurbished Fresh Centre, the new home of Brismark and BML. Brismark chairman Gary Lower was in attendance and took the opportunity to praise BML’s efforts to get his and the other 150 tenants up and operating as quickly as possible so trading could continue.

There were no changes to the existing Board which comprises Tony Joseph (Chairman), Tony Kelly (Vice Chairman), Mike Ahern AO, Noel Greenhalgh, Peter Betros, Peter Tighe, Don Jackson, and Andrew Young.

Order your copy of the Annual Report The 2010/11 Annual Report is available on the website: www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.

Alternatively, pick up a copy by contacting Kelly Turner on 07 3915 4200 or email kturner@brisbanemarkets.com.au

Trucking theme apt This year’s Brisbane Markets Annual Report features a heavy transport vehicle on the way to Brisbane Markets as the sun rises, and another with the first light piercing the night.

The subject, photographed by Peter Jacques, was apt for the annual report with hundreds of trucks entering the Brisbane Markets daily, carrying produce picked yesterday and arriving for sale next day.

Trucking and logistics are pivotal in the distribution of Queensland’s fresh produce, transporting extremely perishable goods within tight timeframes across the country.

from the

Markets New Market logos gradually rolled out Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) has refreshed its existing suite of logos giving the original 1990’s styled artwork, along with some additional brands added in 2003, a more modern look.

CEO Andrew Young said that given the impact of the floods and the pressure on profitability, there would be a transitional upgrading of the brands with signage replaced on a rolling basis over the next 12 months.

He said this would enable the updated logos to be included in signage which was currently being replaced under insurance due to flood damage, as well as the new signage required for the Fresh Centre.

The updated design maintains the theme of the previous logos which identify various areas of the business, bringing them together into a more modern ‘family’ suite.

13

Industry visitors explore the Markets Growers from across Australia have been taking the opportunity to explore the Brisbane Markets as the weather warms and a flood of new season fruit goes on display.

Overseas visitors have included industry groups from Fiji, Philippines and Papua New Guinea.

However, the most important visitors have been the large number of Queensland grower groups who have learned more about the Market process, met with wholesalers on the trading floor and explored cold rooms and warehouses during their visit.

Recent visits have included 50 berry growers attending a Berry Quest 2011 conference in Caloundra; New Generation Farmer participants, hosted

by Growcom, to encourage young

Grower kits explain the system There may be about 7,000 growers sending produce to Brisbane Markets but there are always plenty more needing help to learn the requirements and to search for a wholesaler who may be able to help.

That’s where the Brisbane Produce Market growers kit becomes handy.

The pack includes wholesaler details, a range of fact sheets from how to deal with the Brisbane Markets through to opening hours, market map, Fresh Test chemical and biological testing service and information on the mandatory regulation wholesalers and growers must abide by.

There are flyers and publications, including Fresh Source and a tenant phone book.

To order a Grower Kit, phone the grower hotline on 1800 631 002 or email vkennedy@brisbanemarkets.com.au with your Name, business, address, phone numbers and email address.

farmers to learn more about the industry; Fruit Growers Victoria apple and pear farmers on a Queensland industry tour; and Women in the Melon Industry delegates to help demystify the markets process.

contact Communications Executive Vanessa Kennedy on 07 3915 4200, 0438 388 111 or email vkennedy@brisbanemarkets.com.au.

On an educational level, Corinda State High School agricultural students, along with Gatton University horticulture students revisited the site to speak to buyers, wholesalers and learn more about the effect of the January 2011 flood.

Grower groups and educational institutions are already making bookings for tours in 2012.

Groups interested in learning more about the Markets are asked to

BERRY QUEST CONFERENCE DELEGATES LEARN MORE ABOUT PRICING WITHIN THE BRISBANE MARKETS FROM MARKET INFORMATION SERVICE’S OWEN BAXTER DURING A TAILORED INDUSTRY TOUR.

from the

Markets

Mango Auction 2011

LIFE EDUCATION QUEENSLAND’S MICHAEL FAWCETT PENSIVELY WAITS DURING THE BIDDING FOR THE FIRST SYMBOLIC TRAY OF MANGOES.

ENTERTAINERS FROM THE NII YANKOS AND THE GHANIAN DUMMERS STIR UP SOME EXCITEMENT DURING A WALK ON THE TRADING FLOOR.

Mango Auction winner wants others to experience the crown

Hey there

BRISBANE MARKETS MANGO AUCTION ORGANISERS AMY KEARNS (LEFT) AND YVONNE KLETTE (RIGHT) WITH MC AND CHANNEL 10 PERSONALITY BILL MCDONALD.

! s k e e h C t e e w S

THE BRISBANE BRONCOS’ CHEERLEADERS GIVE LIFE EDUCATION QUEENSLAND’S HEALTHY HAROLD A HUG.

KING CARLO LORENTI AFTER OUTBIDDING HIS COMPETITORS FOR THE FIFTH YEAR.

THE HALLOWED MANGO KING CROWN AND FIRST SYMBOLIC TRAY OF MANGOES FROM PINE CREEK PLANTATION IN THE NORTHERN TERRITORY.

MANGO KING CARLO LORENTI VISITS KIRAN, A RECIPIENT OF REDKITE’S CHARITY WORK.

RAY WHITE NEW FARM AUCTIONEER HAESLEY CUSH CONTROLS THE BIDDING.

Review The year in

Reflecting on a tough 12 months

It was a tough start to 2011 with the January floods devastating growing regions right across Queensland before the Markets itself was flooded, causing millions of dollars of damage.

This feature takes a look at the year that was and celebrates the milestones that have made the Brisbane Markets community so successful, despite the challenges it faced over the past 12 months.

Flood recovery • On 11 January 2011, the whole of the Brisbane Markets was totally inundated by one to three metres of floodwater from the Brisbane River and Oxley Creek.

• The receival and distribution of fresh produce commenced on the Brisbane Produce Market trading floor area within 60 hours of the floodwaters receding.

M HOE DA M WIVEN O E R N F A D B E AS OD. BRIS ARE RELE 2011 FLO ODS Y LO R WATERS F A U D N N THE JA ENSLA THE QUE DURING SS THE RONTED F O DISCU S T T Y E K IR R U Q MA ICTURE IN P F .

E O IT SION S’ 77HA S T E K R COMMIS A M NE. ON THE INBOUR IMPACT ER/ TIM W T U E /R MEDIA

• Six months of concentrated reinstatement works that included electrical distribution boards, dock levellers, lock replacement, water/sanitary infrastructure, access control, landscaping, signage, lift rectification works, road repairs, telecommunications, fire services and emergency lighting.

• A function was held to thank the emergency services, volunteers, contractors, business partners and staff members who helped in the Market’s flood recovery.

Performance

CONSTRUCTION OF A 4,700M2 WAREHOUSE IN THE NORTH-WESTERN CORNER OF THE SITE FOR THE FRESH PRODUCE GROUP, ACCESSIBLE VIA THE NEW WESTERN ACCESS ROAD.

• The flood had the single most impact on the BML’s 2010/11 year, affecting its financial performance. The outcome is a net loss for the year of $3.345 million, however, the net operating result, excluding the impact of the investment property valuation, is a surplus of $5.649 million.

• BML’s bank approved an extension after the flood of a $110 million facility, showing its confidence in the organisation’s capacity to perform and to service the facility requirements.

• Jointly working with wholesaler service organisation Brismark on a range of projects including Workplace Health and Safety and reviews involving the unloading service, electricity and rent.

Development • Opening of the Western Access Road, creating a new entry to the Markets from Sherwood Road with a state-of-the art security gate house, and a further 600 car parks.

• Refurbishment of the Fresh Centre (formerly Committee of Direction/Growcom building), an administration and retail block featuring café, training rooms, demonstration kitchen and Market service centres.

WAS SPECIAL IGH (CENTRE) BL NA AN R IE GALA PREM DUCE MARKET QUEENSLAND BRISBANE PRO WITH AL G NU IN AN EP E KE GUEST AT TH ITS’ THEME IN SU TO TS O O A ‘B DINNER WITH D RECOVERY. MASSIVE FLOO THE MARKETS

17

Industry happenings • All three levels of government leaders and a large number of growers inspected the site during a busy delegation program, including hosting the Produce Marketing Association Fresh Connections and the AUSVEG Convention delegates for breakfast and tours.

BRISBANE MARKETS SPOKE AT, ATTENDED, SPONSORED OR BECAME TRADE SHOW PARTICIPANTS AT A RANGE OR GROWER CONFERENCES, DINNERS AND REGIONAL VISITS.

E BRISBANE MARKETS BECAM OF GE RAN A IN ED OLV INV Y INDUSTRY ISSUES AS THE THE T OU GH OU THR SE ARO YEAR. SHADOW TREASURER JOE HOCKEY (CENTRE) BROADCASTS A MESSAGE FROM THE MARKETS ON D THE CARBON TAX, FLANKE ER

BY BOARD MEMBERS PET N TIGHE (LEFT) AND STEPHE EDWARDS.

BRISBANE BRONCO BEN TE’O JOINED BRISBANE MARKETS WORKERS FOR A HEALTH CHECK ON THE TRADING FLOOR CONDUCTED BY THE ROYAL FLYING DOCTORS MEDICOS, INCLUDING NURSE MANAGER JUSTINE POWELL, AS PART OF AN INAUGURAL PIT STOP THEMED HEALTH CHECK.

BRISBANE PRODUCE MARKET RETAILER OF THE YEAR NICK PAVLOU (PICTURED) AND HIS WIFE VANESSA, OF BIRKDALE’S PARADISE FRUITS TOOK HOME THE COVETED PRIZE FOR EXCELLENCE IN RETAILING.

AGRICULTURE HALL THE BRISBANE MARKETS ROYAL NATIONAL THE WAS FAREWELLED AT EKKA. SUNCOAST THE W, SHO ’S ION ASSOCIAT , AIDED BY INE TW E FRESH RETAILER GRAEM NED OTHER JOI , RAN DO EN KAR ’S BRISMARK R SPONSOR D/O AN OK CO GREENGROCERS TO KIDS COOKING SESSIONS.

THE QUEENSLAND KIDS FRESH NET PROGRAM REACHED OVER 8,500 PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS WITH THE HEALTHY EATING MESSAGE.

Promotion • Rebranding of the Brisbane Markets Retailer Program, encouraging consumers to ‘Shop at your local greengrocer’.

• Refreshing Brisbane Markets Limited’s logo suite.

• Staging of the 14th annual Brisbane Markets Mango Auction, crowning Mango King Carlo Lorenti, of Clayfield Markets Fresh for the fifth time with a $30,000 bid for the symbolic first tray of mangoes.

Industry New banana’s CEO appointed The Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC) has appointed Jim Pekin as the new chief executive officer.

He arrives in the position after seven years as the Director of Plant Industries with the Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation where he worked on policy advice and strategies for the horticulture, sugar, field crops and forestry industries.

He has also previously worked for the Victorian Farmers Federation, Ricegrowers Association of Australia, Groote Eylandt Mining Company and Rural Press.

Mr Pekin said he was looking forward to making a difference in the industry in the long term.

He said his primary role would be to assist the industry in continuing to meet its challenges head on.

Gavin Scurr new AMIA Chairman Wamuran grower Gavin Scurr, of Pinata Farms has become chairman of the Australian Mango Industry Association (AMIA), taking over the role from former mango farmer Peter Delis.

Mr Scurr was an industry board member for four years and held the South Queensland Director title.

retailers and wholesalers with Mr Scurr joining Executive Officer Trevor Dunmall and Horticulture Australia Limited Mango Marketing Manager Elisa Tseng in the Brismark training room to present on the 2011/12 mango season.

He also launched a retailer competition

His fellow board members include two new directors Ian Pershouse and Robert Gray. They join current directors John Nucifora, Marie Piccone, Geoff Warnock and Brett Jackson.

to encourage retailers to create amazing

The AMIA followed up on its commitment to communicate with the

media opportunities, with full details on

mango displays in the lead up to Christmas.

The winner will receive $10,000 and the www.mangoes.net.au.

NEW AUSTRALIAN MANGO INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION CHAIRMAN GAVIN SCURR (CENTRE) FLANKED BY EXECUTIVE OFFICER TREVOR DUNMALL (LEFT) AND HORTICULTURE AUSTRALIA LIMITED’S JANE WIGHTMAN, LENDING A HAND AT THE 2011 BRISBANE PRODUCE MARKET MANGO AUCTION.

19

The price on carbon that we already have

BY ROD GLASS, SUSTAINABLE CORPORATE SOLUTIONS As of 1 July next year we have a price on carbon. That is the common catch cry you will hear.

opposition both want a 5% reduction by 2020, each side wanting to achieve this by different types of legislation.

In fact, we have had a price on carbon since 2001 and every person in this country has been paying a levy on renewable energy through household and business power bills.

The Federal Government with a hung Parliament now has its policy as law and it seeks to improve our society by:

All parties agreed to this tax even though it has achieved little, as our emissions have risen from 465million tonnes in 2001 to almost 600million tonnes in 2009, which was a rise of 22% - and thus, we pay a tax.

• introducing a price on carbon • promoting renewable energy innovation and investment • encouraging energy efficiency • creating opportunities for the land sector and waste.

One of the problems in people dealing with Greenhouse Gasses is we can’t see them, so let’s put it another way.

The price on carbon will mean a price of $23 in the first year rising to $25.40 by 2014, changing in 2015 to an emissions trading system.

The BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico released about 4.9 million barrels of oil and was widely reported as the worst environmental disaster of all time. Australia puts the equivalent of 4.3 billion barrels of carbon dioxide gasses into the atmosphere every year; we can’t see it washing up onto the shore, so it is out of sight, out of mind.

The emissions trading system will have a floor price and a ceiling price and the government will set the emissions levels for each year.

In general terms, the more we emit each year the higher the carbon price under an emissions trading system.

So we now have a real price on carbon and the government and the

For small business to reduce the effect of a price on carbon on their business, the answer is simple - use less power.

John Quinn from the Department of Environment and Resource Management’s Sustainable Industries Group manages the EcoBiz program.

The EcoBiz program has over 100 Queensland businesses as members.

On average those businesses have saved over 20% in emissions.

In other words, with less power usage, John often says, “it’s just good business”. The price on carbon will encourage business and households to be energy efficient. We will pay more so we will want to use less.

The price on carbon will promote renewable energy investment and innovation, we currently have a client who will reduce their emissions by over 11,000 tonnes per year and will produce renewable energy. This should lead to a change in their cash position of over $850,000 per year, a project that would not have been considered without the price on carbon.

Love it or hate it the legislation is here as long as the Greens have a majority in the senate, so what can we do to reduce costs, reduce the energy we use and help our planet.

Industry Collaboration across industry the key

BY DENISE KREYMBORG, BOWEN GUMLU GROWERS ASSOCIATION These past few months has seen the review of dimethoate, a key crop protectant used for domestic and export market access, result in its suspension from use in our industry.

It has taken over six years for the review to be completed by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority. It has finally put forward results that affect the industry at a local, state and national level and its sustainability long term.

Many growers are in two minds about the result stating that they are keen to use less crop protectants but need to be able to supply consumers with a continuous supply of good quality fresh produce each year.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) has been working in collaboration with government and industry over the past five years to develop a systems approach-type protocol for market access domestically and for export.

There is still work to be done in this area however BGGA is working closely with Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation and Biosecurity Queensland to deliver a protocol to industry across the Bowen and Gumlu region in the near future.

It is hoped that other growing regions will follow suit and develop the same type of systems approach based on further research and development.

We have also seen the main vegetable growing season come to an end with a month or so of mango production still to come.

Many growers have had a tough year with a slow start where we saw two cyclones, flooding and a cooler than average winter causing yields to be down across the season and unpredictable prices in shops. Let’s hope for a better season next year.

BGGA would like to thank all its partners for their continued support of the organisation and look forward to working with them in the New Year.

BGGA would also like to make special mention of Brisbane Markets, which has come back from enormous adversity to continue to supply consumers with great quality fresh produce.

It has continued to support BGGA in delivering outcomes for industry across a number of key priority areas.

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

21

Pro-active approach to performance management

BY SAL TRUJILLO, BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED HUMAN RESOURCES ADVISOR Organisations are regularly searching for effective ways to increase staff performance in order to remain competitive and achieve desired outcomes.

To achieve this, it is essential to strategically adopt a pro-active approach by managing performance on a regular basis and providing support and feedback to assist employees in performing their jobs.

By pro-actively managing staff performance, communication between the employee and manager increases as feedback becomes more frequent.

This is the underlying contributor to improved working relationships as emotionally charged discussions tend to be displaced by business focused discussions on achievement of objectives.

By adopting this type of approach in managing performance, organisations benefit from equitable treatment of employees, staff retention and increased productivity.

So, how do you proactively manage performance?

• Develop and frequently review clear job descriptions which capture as much accurate information on the duties to be performed, as well as required skills, personal qualities and qualifications needed to perform the work.

• Select the right applicant through the application of several practices such as interviews, reference checks, psychometric testing, and on the job assessment/ practical tests.

• Induct new and existing staff members upon commencing and after 12 months of service.

Inductions introduce and reaffirm the organisation’s expectations and objectives to employees.

• Discuss performance expectations. This discussion should set the dynamics for the relationship and define the detailed practicality of the work to be done.

• Provide initial and ongoing training to minimise the chances of poor performance. Such training should be based on specific procedures applicable to the job as outlined in the job description.

• Reward good performance through praise and recognition, providing challenging work as well as professional growth and development opportunities.

• Manage probation periods by assessing and providing constructive feedback to employees. During this period of time you should be able to judge if the employee has the right skills, personal attributes, and ability to perform the job.

• Provide ongoing constructive feedback which is specific, focused on behaviour, with a genuine desire to help the employee.

Adopting the pro-active approach will enhance the chances of managing performance from early stages and consequently avoid complicated, expensive and time consuming claims which can result from lack of performance management.

Industry Catching up with wholesalers Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) Acting Executive Officer Peter Hockings and Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) Industry Development Officer Denise Kreymborg called in on the Brisbane Markets recently to meet with wholesalers.

communication, regional and Market visits, information sharing and sponsorship of events.

BFVG and BGGA both hold Memoranda of Understanding with Brisbane Markets.

The partnership with BGGA has continued through sharing information, sponsorship of its annual gala dinner and other industry events, regional and Market visits and promotion of the work carried out by the region’s farmers and Brisbane Markets.

Similarly, the relationship with BFVG has strengthened through strong

BGGA INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER DENISE KREYMBORG AND BFVG ACTING EXECUTIVE OFFICER PETER HOCKINGS (CENTRE) CATCH UP WITH ALFRED E CHAVE’S ANTHONY JOSEPH DURING A RECENT VISIT.

Bundy Pride launched in Bundaberg Bundy Pride is something that can only be grown or made in Bundaberg.

It’s also the new brand name for the region’s promotional campaign that will see Bundaberg products, including its fruit and vegetables, marketed throughout Australia and overseas.

Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) Acting Executive Officer Peter Hockings said the “Bundaberg Made” and “Bundaberg Grown” concept aimed to showcase the region through an innovative branding campaign that would: • Promote the Bundaberg Region as ‘the home’ of premium producers and manufacturers and engender pride in local businesses

• Encourage customers and consumers of “Bundaberg Made” and “Bundaberg Grown” products to look at what else is available from the Region, creating a multiplier effect • Promote the Bundaberg Region as an attractive place to work, live and play.

Mr Hockings said the Bundy Pride concept was rolled out at the Bundy in Bloom celebrations in October, at an official business function and later a larger launch at a Central Queensland University branding and marketing seminar.

BFVG is encouraging all growers, processors and industry businesses to be part of the collective ‘Bundaberg’ brand to boost opportunities, business networks and profit margins.

23

Working from home

BY LISA DWYER, BRISMARK EMPLOYMENT SERVICES MANAGER I have received a number of Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) and Workplace Bulletins in the past six months that have highlighted the issue of ‘Working from Home’.

This was highlighted further via a legal case that was publicised in the media, regarding Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) obligations for employees ‘working from home’.

The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) ordered Telstra to pay the legal and medical costs of an employee who injured herself after slipping down the stairs twice in two months while working from home.

Telstra denied liability as the falls occurred away from the employee’s ‘designated workstation’, however the AAT ruled the injuries suffered were work-related. Telstra will have to pay compensation for the employee’s lost income and future earning potential, which could add up to millions of dollars.

As a result, a number of businesses have asked what they can do to reduce their liability and meet their ‘duty of care’ under OH&S legislation.

Below are a few tips to assist both employers and employees in ensuring their ‘workplace’, even if at home, ticks all the boxes and is a safe, hazard free work environment:

What is considered as the ‘workplace’ when working from home?

In OH&S legislation, a workplace is broadly defined as “any place where work is, or is to be performed by a worker or a person conducting a business or undertaking”.

In the case of ‘working from home’, the employee should allocate a specific area in the house for the work to be carried out; however other areas such as the kitchen and bathroom will also form part of the workplace.

Complete an OH&S Checklist and Workstation Assessment A good way in ensuring that your employee’s home workplace is safe and free from risks to their health and safety is the requirement for every employee to complete an OH&S Checklist and Workstation Assessment.

You can ask the employee to review their home ‘workplace’ as per the checklist and ensure it complies with OH&S requirements (don’t forget to include the kitchen and bathroom).

The employee can even include photos of the work area along with the checklist and assessment.

Example questions could include is there a working smoke detector, does work station/area meet ergonomic requirements, is there a fire extinguisher available and is it appropriate for the type of potential fire?

It is important for the employer to discuss the checklist with the employee and suggest any changes that need to be made to ensure all parties meet their health and safety obligations.

Working from home has great benefits for both the employer and employees and provides an opportunity to keep valuable staff happy and retain their services by being flexible.

Therefore, we don’t want employers to feel they can no longer allow employees to work from home due to more stringent OH&S obligations and the risk of legal action.

Before this happens, take a few simple steps that will aid in protecting both the employer and the employee.

For more information on ‘Working from Home’ checklists or ‘Workstation Assessment’ forms, please contact Brismark’s Employment Services Manager, Lisa Dwyer on 3915 4222.

Industry Landmark Biosecurity Bill introduced Queensland’s most significant piece of biosecurity-related legislation was introduced in October in a bid to secure Queensland’s national and international reputation as a leader in biosecurity standards.

address biosecurity risks to production, human health, environment and the economy.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Regional Economies Tim Mulherin introduced the Biosecurity Bill 2011 that brings seven different Acts, and various subordinate legislation, into the one regulation.

Mr Mulherin said consultation on the Bill had been comprehensive and inclusive to an extent not seen before.

He said it modernised the legislation into a cohesive, flexible tool to respond to both current and future biosecurity challenges.

“This Bill delivers a major reform to the regulatory framework and a significant reduction in red tape,” Mr Mulherin said.

“For the first time in Queensland, biosecurity legislation will clearly

“The Bill incorporates shared responsibility, risk based assessment, prevention and management of issues.”

He said the Biosecurity Bill will continue to provide significant powers to deal with emergency situations.

“The Bill proposes to introduce stronger penalties for biosecurityrelated offences and ensure the penalty corresponds to relevant community expectation and the offence,” Mr Mulherin said.

The Biosecurity Bill is a key initiative under the Queensland Biosecurity Strategy 2009-14.

Malaysian pineapples quarantine risk Biosecurity Australia is proposing to allow the import of fresh de-crowned pineapples from Malaysia, subject to a number of quarantine measures.

However Queensland growers are concerned that it will be too hard to keep one of the Malaysia’s major pineapple diseases, fruit collapse, out of Australia.

Growers say the quarantine measures that are proposed do not relate to the management of fruit collapse, instead concentrating on other pests.

The fruit collapse disease is also known as ghost fruit or bacterial heart rot.

Plant Biosecurity Horticulture’s Darryl Barbour says Biosecurity Australia has proposed a number of quarantine

measures in its draft import risk analysis on the importation of Malaysian pineapples to protect the Australian pineapple industry.

“What is being proposed in this draft assessment is that we would have a full traceback system, enabling pineapples to be sourced from particular plantations,” he said.

Biosecurity Australia will release the findings from its draft import risk analysis consultation in 2012.

25

On-line technology proves its worth

BY IAN MAIN, GENERAL MANAGER, BRISMARK Over the past decade, Brismark has transformed the way its Credit Service operates through the introduction of new technology.

One by one, Brisbane Market wholesalers have been linked by fibre optic cable or through the internet to the Credit Service. We recently celebrated the connection of the final wholesaling business to the system.

of the floods and the difficult

Adelaide is now operating live on

trading conditions faced by many

the new system and Melbourne

Market buyers.

is, at the time of writing, running

In the financial year just ended, the

the new system in parallel with its

Credit Service incurred only one

old software. A fourth Australian

bad debt of approximately $3,000

market is currently evaluating

on a total turnover in excess of $620

the system.

million, which is a remarkable result.

The foresight shown by Brismark

The benefits of the system

a decade ago is now bringing

The network we now have, combined with new or modified software, allows wholesalers to send their daily invoices and weekly billing information electronically to the Credit Service.

developed by Brismark have also

benefits to wholesalers and buyers

been recognised by other Central

around the country. The success of

Markets, with both the Melbourne

the market Credit Services in turn

and Adelaide Credit Services

provides protection to growers that

having purchased the rights to use

is not available when they trade

It also allows buyers to receive their invoices and statements, reconcile their accounts, notify wholesalers of any disputes and pay their accounts from any location with an internet connection.

the software.

through other marketing channels.

This connectivity was invaluable following the January floods.

Without power or telephones, wholesalers were forced to move their computers to their homes or other sites remote from the Brisbane Markets.

Brismark also had to quickly establish new offices some kilometers from the Markets.

Through the use of the internet, online buyers were able to receive their invoices on time on the first day that trading resumed at Rocklea. Throughout the whole flood recovery period, the on-line system was a vital link between wholesalers, the Credit Service and the buyers.

Of course, the benefits of the new technology extend well beyond flood recovery. For example, new reports have assisted with credit monitoring which has been crucial in the wake

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Kids Healthy eating program hits a high note The Queensland Kids Fresh Net (QKFN) program has spread the healthy eating message of eating two fruit and five vegetables a day to a record number of primary school students in 2011.

A total of 142 schools were visited throughout the year, an increase of 58% on the previous year.

The numbers illustrate the growing commitment of Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark in educating kids through the “Apples Ain’t Apples” and “Crunch Time” presentations.

The “Apples Ain’t Apples” presentation is aimed at students in years 2-4 and includes information on how many serves of fruit and vegetables students should eat every day, the different parts of the plant, and how fresh produce

travels from the farm to the plate.

The “Crunch Time” presentation has been tailored for older students in years 5-7 and focuses on how fruit and vegetables help our bodies stay healthy, becoming little chefs with mum and dad in the kitchen, along with the concepts of seasonality and globalisation of food.

All presentations feature taste testings and aim to introduce kids to vegetables they may never have seen before.

In total, over 8,500 school students received the healthy eating message by way of a visit from the QKFN team in 2011. This included around 220 high school students who visited the Brisbane Markets and received a guided tour of the trading floor.

Locations of the school visits conducted in 2011 2011 QKFN School Visits

All QKFN school visits are within a one-hour driving radius of the Brisbane Markets at All QKFN school visits are Rocklea. within a one‐hour driving

radius of the Brisbane In 2011, the QKFN team travelled: Markets at Rocklea Markets at Rocklea

• as far north as Caboolture; • as far east bayside as Cleveland; In 2011, the QKFN team

• travelled: as far south as Beaudesert; and as far north as

Caboolture; • as far west as Haigslea as far east bayside as

Cleveland; A total of 142 schools were visited as far south as as far south as throughout the year, with over Beaudesert; and as far west as Haigslea 8,500 primary school students receiving the healthy eating message.

A A total of 142 schools were l f 142 h l visited throughout the year, with over 8,300 primary school students receiving the healthy eating message.

Got a red hot issue?

HOTLINE: 1800 631 002

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.

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 the next business day.

Book a guided tour of the Markets for your industry group.

Learn more by visiting www.brisbanemarkets.com.au or phone the free Grower Hotline on 1800 631 002. Talk to us about subscribing to our free industry magazine Fresh Source while you are there.

www.brisbanemarkets.com.au

Retailing Greengrocer retail trends

BY AMY KEARNS BRISBANE MARKETS MARKETING EXECUTIVE As this edition of Fresh Source magazine is being distributed, the final round of mystery shopping is in progress for the registered greengrocers in the Brisbane Produce Market Retailer Program.

There has been a noticeable increase in all the stores overall scores this year and this looks to be in response to the ‘perfect storm’ of floods, cyclone and economy. Owners are working harder for every dollar and the results support this.

One of the areas which continues to be a problem is Country of Origin labelling.

Country of Origin labelling is not only a law but it is also quickly becoming ‘must have’ information for customers when purchasing their produce.

They want to know where their fruit and vegetables are coming from and retailers are in the position to tell them.

It is not good enough to have a sign that says ‘everything is Australian unless otherwise marked.’

Food Standards of Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ) state that this type of broad labelling is not within their

guidelines. Every item for sale needs to show an easy to read label.

The other area of produce purchase and service continues to fluctuate, mostly due to younger or inexperienced staff members being the person on the spot with the mystery shopper.

While it may be unfortunate that this happens with the mystery shopper, it often means that your paying customers are also experiencing service which may not quite be up to the standard that the store-owner themselves would provide.

Staff training should be an ongoing process and providing feedback to staff on how you would like them to serve your customers is essential. The mystery shopping component is a valuable tool for retailers to allow feedback to their staff.

Once this month’s mystery shopping is complete, a Retailer of the Month will be awarded, and the 2011 Retailer of the Year finalists will be announced before Christmas.

Healthy fun facts to educate customers Did you know that one 20cm celery stalk contains about 0.025 kilojoules - the energy required to metabolize that celery is actually more than the calorie intake.

There’s no such thing as a negative-calorie snack but eating celery actually helps you to lose weight by satisfying your desire to eat while automatically burning its own calories.

Some savvy google searching will yield a wealth of interesting facts about all types of fruits and vegetables.

WINNER: SEPTEMBER

Super sweet September at Samford Village Greens

WINNER: OCTOBER

29

Not short on supply at Boonah greengrocer

The charming village suburb of Samford can now boast one of Brisbane’s best greengrocers with local store Samford Village Greens winning the Brisbane Produce Market’s Retailer of the Month Award for September.

John Stamatiou owns and operates the fruit and veg store in the Samford Central complex off Main Street and has achieved multiple awards as Retailer of the Month and nominations for Retailer of the Year.

John credits his small but enthusiastic staff for achieving another award. “We may not be the biggest greengrocer in Brisbane but my staff could easily hold their own

Scott and Jolene Martin of Boonah Fruit Supply have made their store an inviting and quality destination for Scenic Rim locals to buy fruit and vegetables, since purchasing the store in 2006.

This was further confirmed with the Boonah Fruit Supply being awarded the Retailer of the Month for October in the Brisbane Produce Market retail awards program.

The husband and wife team have rejuvenated this store and not only does it look good but local taste buds are benefiting from this duo’s combined experience.

“As an independent greengrocer we understand our customers are looking for

against other experienced fruiterers,“ said Mr Stamatiou.

“We also work hard on stock rotation, full displays and buying fresh quality produce.

This is not always recognised by customers and it is great to have a third party tell you your efforts have not gone unnoticed.”

With both summer fruits and Christmas just around the corner, John is hoping for a busy holiday period. “The fruit this year is looking to be the best I have seen in a number of years – in both quality and price. Cherries, mangoes and lychees only have a short season but are some of the tastiest fruits you can eat,” said Mr Stamatiou.

JOHN STAMATIOU (LEFT) WITH MYLES MESSINBIRD HOLDING THE TROPHY IN THEIR AWARD WINNING STORE.

a little extra from us. We can offer them great advice on seasonal produce as well as sourcing local items such as beans, onions, carrots, broccoli, pumpkins and potatoes as well as our very own honey,” Mrs Martin said.

Scott is in charge of buying and you can find him making the two hour round trip to the Brisbane Produce Market three days a week to personally select the best produce and Jolene is always busy coordinating the operations back at the store.

“Winning the Retailer of the Month award is a major boost for our whole team, everyone here makes the store a success and I am confident our customers are getting the best fruit and veg experience they possibly can,” Mrs Martin said.

JOLENE & SCOTT MARTIN PROUDLY DISPLAY THEIR AWARD AS THE OCTOBER RETAILER OF THE MONTH.

Holiday season trading hours The Brisbane Produce Market will be closed to buyers and the public on the public holidays during the festive season.

For further information on fresh produce deliveries and purchases, please contact your wholesaler or check trading hours on line at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.

Christmas Foodbank readying for Christmas

Brisbane Produce Markets wholesalers will be stepping up their donations leading up to Christmas to aid Foodbank at a time when its warehouse traditionally requires the most donations.

Foodbank is feeding over 65,000 people in need, per week, in Queensland and the number is growing daily.

Over 300 charities are registered with Foodbank Queensland and have the job of collecting from the Colmslie based warehouse and distributing the food.

Growers receive a tax deduction if they forward any of their surplus crop to the organisation.

To make a donation, contact Foodbank on 07 3395 8422, email foodbank@westnet.com.au or visit www.foodbank.com.au.

Have a very Merry Christmas ...and a prosperous 2012

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