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ISSUE: FORTY FOUR JUNE/2013
02-13
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s urce MAGAZINE OF BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED
rts Chinese grape expo take off
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3
CEO comment National Food Plan The recent release of the Federal Government’s National Food Plan by Federal Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig needs to be applauded as an excellent initiative which can work to give guidance and direction to government and industry planning and policy setting. The plan exists at a high level and covers the whole food sector. It contains a focus on research and development, skills upgrading and reporting. There is also a focus on health and dietary guidelines which also has the potential to provide a very positive outcome for the industry. The plan, therefore, does seek to address a number of important parts of the jigsaw puzzle, which represents the future of food production, processing and marketing in Australia. It allocates funding to these areas without providing any guidance as to how these funds will be apportioned across the many facets of the food industry.
market. Much more could be done to give an insight into the Federal Government’s plans and policies to promote productivity and international competitiveness. The ongoing approach of throwing buckets of money at industry to address only certain parts of the economic equation has shown again and again to fail, as seen with the car industry. It is a little rich for governments to preach to industry about the need to develop export markets, while they themselves progressively dismantle Australia’s competitive advantages. They offer an environment which in relative terms has high labour costs, high electricity costs, high freight costs, and ongoing difficulties negotiating market access. The plan, therefore, while being an excellent initiative, does not go far enough and does not address a significant number of the issues which are adversely impacting on the growth and financial sustainability of the industry.
Horticulture Code of Conduct The current political debate about the pros and cons of having a mandatory code for the retailing sector would be amusing if it were not such a serious issue. The Liberal National Party had no trouble imposing the current costly, unworkable code on the wholesaling sector. Now both sides of politics are balking at doing anything further. It is about time Australia’s politicians showed some ticker - a uniform code for all or no code at all!
Andrew Young, Chief Executive Officer
In terms of the parts of the jigsaw puzzle where the industry is left guessing, there could have been more said about the role and growth in the industry itself, and of the domestic
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 quarterly. 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 MARKETS
p4
State of pride for Market golfers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p6 Paniyiri promotion on the trading floor. . . . . . . . . . p6 Mother’s Day biggest on calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7 Ipad Mini competition a winner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7 Fresh inspirations in the kitchen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7
FRESH WHOLESALING Blaze Aid volunteers fed with thanks. . . . . . . . . . . . p8 Fresh Test samples arrive daily. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p8 Kokoda Trail fundraising journey continues . . . . . p9 Healthy Lunchboxes a tasty sensation. . . . . . . . . . p10 Strong start for annual retailer program. . . . . . . . p10 Our kids missing out on their fruit and veg. . . . . p11
FRESH BUSINESS National recognition for our Subway. . . . . . . . . . . p12 New cafe and butcher join Brisbane Markets. . . p12 Having a plan is crucial for long term survival. . . p13 Superannuation changes affect us all. . . . . . . . . . . p15
FEATURE: CONFERENCE SEASON Cool conference season underway. . . . . . . . . . . . p16 Fresh Connections an industry highlight. . . . . . . p16 Call for farming commissioner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p16 Strawberry growers meet Brismark’s GM. . . . . . . p17 Increasing demand a key for mango industry. . . p17 Banana industry issues require a united approach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p18 Strong turnout for annual AUSVEG Congress. . . p18 AUSVEG Conference snippets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p19
FRESH INDUSTRY Horticulture leaders discuss Queensland’s future. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p20 Horticulture IDG guides Transport Blueprint. . . p20 Brisbane Markets hosts National Food Plan launch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p21 National Food Plan content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p21 Industry bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p22 Promising start to growing season. . . . . . . . . . . . . p24 Effective use of email communication. . . . . . . . . . p25 Federal Budget spares agricultural funding cuts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p26 Key Federal Budget new initiatives. . . . . . . . . . . . . p26 Who are my customers? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p27
FRESH EXPORT Fruit and vegetable imports rise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 Chinese grape exports take off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 Australian farm exports to decline . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28 DAFF Registration increase threatens export viability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p29
FRESH EVENTS Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p30 Exploring Australia’s digital economic future. . . . p30
updates 2013/14 Telephone Directory The Brisbane Markets 2013/14 Telephone Directory has arrived. The A5 publication has all the features of past directories, including
TELEPHONE DIRECTORY
2013-2014 PUBLISHED
M AY 2 0 1 3
our tenants’ contact details, their position on site and where supplied, the main email address. It also features an updated Brisbane Markets centre spread map, a tenant directory, detailed information on our Market services and colourful advertisements from our service providers. Request a copy by phoning
Level 2, Fresh Centre 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea PO Box 80, Brisba ne Markets 4106 T (07) 3915 4200 E admin@brisbanema rkets.com.au ACN 064 983 017 ABN 39 064 983
Maintenance Hot
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the informati on contained in this publication at the time of printing. Brisbane Markets Limited gives no warranty regarding this informati on.
(07) 3915 4200 or email admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au.
Kids Go Fresh & Healthy The Brisbane Produce Market Kids Education Program has been rebranded and launched as ‘Kids Go Fresh & Healthy’. Look out for the bright logo and branding on the “fruit-mobile” that takes the team around to spread the healthy eating message to primary school students. You will also see it on various kids’ education-related projects, merchandise and local greengrocer initiatives.
017
line
1800 610 064
Fresh Source on line
5
We had a great reaction to our request last edition if you would prefer you Fresh Source online or hardcopy. Thanks to all those who replied. The offer is still there. If you prefer future editions of Fresh Source to be emailed to you rather than posted, then email your request to admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au. You can even check out the publication online at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au/publications/fresh-source/ with plenty of back issues to source if you are looking for something specific.
2013 Aussie mandarin ambassador Sunshine Coast based 4Ingredients chef Kim McCosker has been appointed the 2013 Aussie mandarin ambassador. For her role Kim has developed some mandarin recipes for Citrus Australia. The association is predicting mandarins will be more popular than oranges this season, a massive
Tuck into flood-hit fruit Want to help flood battered farmers in Queensland? It’s simple. Buy a Queensland orange or mandarin. Community Recovery and Resilience Minister David Crisafulli travelled to Bundaberg to make the plea. “Everywhere I go in Queensland people ask me what they can do to help the people who were hit hard in the disaster,” Mr Crisafulli said.
shift in Aussie consumer trends as
“Here’s a suggestion: buy a
oranges have long been an iconic Aussie fruit.
Queensland orange or mandarin that may not look perfect on the outside, but it’s the sweetest and juiciest fruit on the market today.” Mr Crisafulli said there were many growers who had been flooded, especially from the Burnett, who were finding it hard to sell produce
i Leng talks to children Brisbane Produce Market’s Vikk ch. Mun Baa Moo at ” field “in the
that was perfectly good inside but a bit battered outside. “You might have trouble finding it
Moo Baa then Munch on some fruit
in all supermarkets because of their
Brisbane Produce Market partnered with AgForce and presented to 250
fruit, but unusual circumstances call
primary school-aged children at the 2013 Moo Baa Munch school event in
for unusual solutions,” he said.
May, just down the road at Corinda State High School. The event was hosted by the school on its extensive farm facilities, with the Brisbane Produce Market stand one of the more popular.
restrictions on the appearance of
“I’m asking every fruit-and-vegie shop to stock our local produce in their shops, and I’m asking every
Kids sat on hay bales to hear the healthy eating message about fresh fruit
Queenslander to buy at least one
and vegetables.
piece of it. We all know looks can be
The program is designed to deliver agricultural messages to urban and
deceiving. The state’s farmers have
metropolitan areas, while creating a fun, educational and interactive
taken enough hits without having to
experience for students.
dump perfectly good fruit.”
markets State pride for Market golfers Ever seen a cane toad and a cockroach go
The inter-Market competition has been
head to head on the golf course?
going since 1976, with Brisbane Markets
If you were in Bonville, near Coffs Harbour, in April, deep inside NSW’s turf, you would have seen the annual locking
taking home the trophy 19 times, and with the Sydney Markets win this year, the trophy has gone south 15 times.
of horns….well, golf clubs and the thrust
It also honours former colleagues with the
and parry of the golfing game of the year:
trophy named the Alex Littman Len Greer
the Fruit & Vegetable Industries Annual
Plate to remember two from the wholesaling
Interstate Challenge.
industry who have passed away.
This is a Brisbane Markets versus Sydney Markets tournament. It’s a social match that brings old friends and industry competitors together for a week of golf and socializing and is held at a different venue each year. This year introduced some younger industry competitors too which keeps the challenge alive.
Paniyiri promotion on the trading floor The Brisbane Markets trading floor became a Greek party one morning in mid May. There was flag waving, bouzouki music, Greek dancing and a lineup of Brisbane Markets characters interviewed on Radio 4BC and Channel 7 to wish the Greek community “Yassou” in the lead up to the Paniyiri Greek Festival. It’s the first time the radio and TV stations
her team pose for a The Channel 7 news and weat ng floor. on the Brisbane Markets tradi
shot
have chosen the busy multicultural trading floor to promote the annual festival, held in Brisbane each May. By the sounds, it won’t be the last. Channel 7 news personalities and the Radio 4BC breakfast crew broadcasting from the site have told organisers that they had so much fun that they want to return in 2014.
Superior Fruit’s Chris Maniatis wears the Greek flag after his Radio 4BC interview during the Markets’ Paniyiri promotion.
7
The Brisbane Markets will celebrate 50 years at its Rocklea site in 2014. If you have any photos or memorabilia from the last half decade of life at the Markets, we would love to hear from you. Brisbane Flower Market’s Mother’s Day sales bigger have grown bigger than Valentine’s Day and Christmas time.
Mother’s Day biggest on Flower Market calendar Customers queued on Mother’s Day weekend, spilling out of the Brisbane Flower Market, to pick up their posy of appreciation. Thousands of South East Queenslanders called into the Sherwood Road site to shop where the florists shop, although some slipped across the road to the Saturday Fresh and Sunday Treasure weekend Markets to find even more bouquets. Mother’s Day has grown bigger on the Brisbane Market’s Flower Market calendar than Valentine’s Day with preparations taking place days before the busy weekend began and extended hours to handle the volume of interest. Thousands of chrysanthemums had been trucked, including the popular disbud variety that is a fluffy version of the traditional flower. Other popular Mother’s Day bunches
DID YOU KNOW?
Email Brisbane Markets Limited’s Vanessa Kennedy on vkennedy@brisbanemarkets.com.au or phone (07) 3915 4200.
Ipad Mini competition SPEND $5 OR M a winner ORE
FOR YOUR CHANCE TO...
Thousands of Brisbane Markets customers were given the opportunity to be rewarded through a ‘Win an iPad Mini’ competition held at its Commercial Centre shopping strip and
AN iPAD MINI
The Café, in the Fresh Centre building. Each week, for four weeks, customers who spent more than $5 had the opportunity to
VALUE D AT $35 0
fill out an entry form and go into one of four draws over a four week period, from 27 May to 9 June. The weekly winner took home an iPad Mini while the retailers had thousands of opportunities to draw people into their store and reward their clientele with
4 TO WIN - ENTER TODAY DRAWN WEEKLY FROM MONDAY 13TH MAY TO SUNDAY 9TH
SHOP AT ANY BRISB
JUNE
ANE MARKETS COMM ERCIAL CENTRE & FRESH CENTRE RETA IL OUTLET. Brisbane Markets, 385 Sherwood Road, Rockl ea For terms and condi tions, visit www.brisba nemarkets.com.au
great service. The Commercial Centre features a chemist, stationer, new butchery, seafood shop, post office, convenience store, fast food outlets, barber, aquarium retailer, grocery warehouse and will soon welcome a new café. A full list of winners is found at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.
included roses in many colours, white asiatic lilies, alstro, gerberas, asters, carnations, freesias and alstromeria.
the kitchen Fresh inspirations in
has been gathering a Inspirations newsletter Brisbane Markets’ Fresh nthly e-newsletter late last year, with the mo e eas rel its ce sin ing follow . th East Queenslanders reaching hundreds of Sou s on what to buy and it gives the latest new Its focus is on consumers throughout the as and what’s happening when, storage, recipe ide rocer’s stores. season and in our greeng e and email uest, along with your nam To sign up, send your req nemarkets.com.au. address to admin@brisba
wholesaling Blaze Aid volunteers fed with thanks It takes more than saying thanks and
their volunteers, when the chief cook
a cup of to tea to show support to the
and bottle washer farmers’ wives were
Blaze Aid team, a group of volunteers
digging deep out of their own already
who travelled to Laidley to rebuild fences
flood affected bank accounts to feed the
after this year’s ex-tropical Cyclone
volunteer army.
Oswald flood devastation. The volunteers, who bunked in at the Mulgowie Hall & Recreational Ground for a number of weeks gave their time for free to re-fence flood affected farms but they did need a night time meal to
Gibb Bros was one of the first to provide support. Blaze Aid volunteers has also helped restore the spirits of people who lost pets, crops, stock, homes and property.
keep them going. That’s where Gibb Bros
The teams have also worked in the
and a range of Lockyer Valley growers
Monto, Mundubbera, Murgon,
stepped in.
Biggenden, Gin Gin and Dululu areas
Vegetable donations have helped the
until this month.
Mulgowie and Laidley farmers feed
Fresh Test samples arrive daily Brismark’s Fresh Test Australia service
The Australian Chamber has negotiated
has grown so much over the past
significant price reductions with a number
12 years that the once fortnightly
of laboratories around the country, saving
collection of samples grew to weekly
up to 50% of the price because of its
collections and in recent months, has
coordination, bulk requests and resulting
expanded to receiving samples on any
in reduced administration fees.
business day. What is it? Fresh Test is an Australian
through the establishment of a database to
Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable
manage the requests and results.
Industries initiative to provide low cost MRL (chemical residue) and microbial testing for wholesalers and their ks Brismark’s Fresh Test service chec fresh produce for biological and chemical residues.
Duplication of testing has been eliminated
growers in Australia’s Central Markets. The tests are confidential and are used for verification for food safety and Quality Assurance systems.
For further information, contact Brismark’s Fresh Test coordinator Amanda Green 07 3915 4222 or use the freecall Brisbane Markets Hotline on 1800 631 002.
9
Kokoda Trail fundraising journey continues Brisbane Markets wholesaler, David Keates, Quality Fruits’ Managing Director, was challenged but exhilarated by his latest adventure to help others, this time by trekking the Kokoda Trail to raise funds for Variety. Mr Keates joined the 10-day trek as part of Team Australia, a group raising funds for the children’s charity that provides equipment and services to Queensland kids who are sick, disadvantaged or have special needs. The Kokoda Trail is a single-file foot thoroughfare that runs 96km overland — 60km in a straight line — through the Owen Stanley Range, in Papua New Guinea.
DID YOU KNOW?
Brismark and Brisbane Markets Limited have negotiated a new tripartite agreement between Bowen Gumlu District Growers Association. The Memorandum of Understanding ensure strong ties between the growers and Market community to work together on industry issues.
It is the most famous for being the location of the World War II battle between Japanese and Australian forces in 1942. Mr Keates said that the team raised funds but the mission was not over. “Together with others on the trek, including people who had a history with Kokoda through relatives who had been stationed there during the war, we raised over $30,000,” he said. “Completing the trek was a personal ambition. Commemorating Anzac Day at Brigade Hill in the middle of the track was touching with the Last Post playing as the sun rose over the mountains.” Mr Keates is continuing the raising funds by selling raffle tickets within prizes including Members Tickets for the State of Origin and tickets to The British Irish Lions match in Brisbane.
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Quality Fruit’s David Keates back from raising funds by hiking the Kokoda Trail.
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wholesaling Healthy Lunchboxes a tasty sensation Brisbane Produce Market’s Healthy Eating
five serves of vegetables and provides
Ambassador and footy star, Ben Hannant,
10 examples of Healthy Lunchbox ideas.
headed up the launch of the Healthy
There are extra recipes and tips to spur
Lunchboxes for kids of all ages at Hilder
you on to create your own yummy
Road Primary School, The Gap, in April,
lunchbox combinations.
creating a feast of interest.
The publication is available from
The publication was produced by
independent greengrocers taking part
Brisbane Produce Market to support
in Brisbane Produce Market’s Retailer
independent greengrocers taking part
Program. All are found on the check
in its Retailer Program, and in turn, their
out the Healthy Lunchboxes book store
customers in their local communities.
directory at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.
The colourful, wire spined recipe book is only available at local greengrocers who can help choose the best seasonal fruit to make the recipes. Healthy Lunchboxes has been produced to help parents feed their children the recommended two serves and fruit and
Footballer Ben Ha nnant launches the Brisbane Produce Market Healthy Lunchboxes book at Hilder Road Primary School, The Gap. greengrocers who The book is available at local onal fruit to make can help choose the best seas the recipes.
Strong start for annual retailer program Brisbane Produce Market launched its 2013/14 Retailer
new Kids Go Fresh
Program in May to encourage its greengrocers to join the
& Healthy Program.
custom designed program to bolster sales, provide tools and educate independent greengrocers.
Registered retailers
An independent greengrocer talks through the Retailer Program with Brisb ane Produce Market’s Vikki Leng during the official sign up morning.
whose stores are
It’s a free program, paid for by Brisbane Markets
within a three hour driving distance of the Brisbane
Wholesalers, through its service organisation Brismark.
Markets can also opt in for the Mystery Shopping Awards
Participants receive free point-of-sale promotional materials, website store listing and co-promotions with the
Program that rewards excellence in fresh produce retailing.
11
Our kids missing out on their fruit and veg
n children are not More than a quarter of Australia eating enough fruit each day.
A recent Brisbane Produce Market survey
some interesting facts around
lunches, less than half of the parents
reveals a staggering 93% of children were
healthy eating.
(45%) always or often included fresh
“It is encouraging to see that three-
vegetables such as salads, sandwich
quarters of parents make their child’s
fillings and vegie sticks.
lunches on a daily basis,” she said.
“This indicates there is definitely
“However, while healthier
room for including more fresh
That’s according to a Healthy Eating
options such as water, fresh fruit,
vegetables in the lunchbox and
Survey conducted by Brisbane Produce
sandwiches, wraps and bread
helping their children reach their
Market in April, that has backed up
rolls are often included in packed
daily recommended serves.”
eating less than the recommended daily allowance of vegetables. More than a quarter (26%) were not eating enough fruit each day.
already concerning 2012 Queensland Health figures. It says that by eating just one additional serve of fruit or vegies per day could save the direct health care system over $513 million a year. Almost half of the parents questioned through the Brisbane Produce Market Healthy Eating Survey were well aware of the Federal Government’s recommended
FINDING IT HARD IN THIS TOUGH MARKET?
DO YOU REALLY KNOW HOW WELL YOU’RE PERFORMING?
number of five serves of vegetables and two serves of fruit per day. Parents cited their child’s food preferences as the key factor preventing them from preparing healthy meals. Some 45% said pleasing fussy eaters was the biggest barrier to preparing healthy lunchbox meals with almost half of the
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parents surveyed always or often include pre-packaged foods such as muesli bars and chips to keep their kids happy. Surprisingly, less than a quarter of parents named the perceived cost of healthy eating as a notable barrier, although 41 per cent said information around healthy eating on a budget would help them prepare healthier meals. Brisbane Produce Market spokesperson, Vikki Leng, said the survey unearthed
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business National recognition for our Subway Brisbane Markets tenant, Subway, in
Centre with improved paving, seating,
the Commercial Centre, may be the
lighting and signage.
favourite haunt of many Brisbane Markets employees wanting a bite to eat but soon people Australia wide will see the magic of the store. The outlet was selected from 1,400 others nationally to be the star of the next Subway commercial, expected to hit your TV screens in July. Franchisee Ian Haseler said that actors and film crew from Two Little Indians took over the store in May for more than 14 hours to film the commercial. The choice of his store comes after extensive upgrading of the Commercial
A technician pla ys back part of a commercial being made at a Brisb ane Markets Subway film shoot.
New cafe and butcher join Brisbane Markets Brisbane Market’s shopping strip, known
operation was appointed, after showing
as the Commercial Centre, has two new
links to the Market and the commitment
tenants moving their businesses to the site.
necessary to win the bid.
Brisbane Markets wholesaler, Peter Kedwell,
Buzz is an established operation also found
along with sons Cameron and Logan, has
at the Emporium in the Valley and the
taken up the lease to open a Buzz Markets
Tennis Centre at Tennyson.
Cafe in the recently refurbished cafĂŠ space in the Commercial Centre. The search for an operator took some time,
Meanwhile, butcher, Zac’s Quality Meats, has just finished its fit out and starts trading from this month.
with national franchise groups showing keen interest, before the independent
DID YOU KNOW?
More than 3,500 people do business at the Brisbane Markets site on a daily basis. It has about 7,000 growers sending in produce and welcome more than $1 billion in fresh produce through its front gates annually. A registered buyer, one of nearly 1,000, checks his stock on the busy Brisbane Produce Market Trading Floo r.
13
Having a plan is crucial for long term survival BY ANDREW MALINS – AFFINITY ACCOUNTING PLUS Whether your business is highly
The program is specifically
a number of supporting documents
profitable, struggling or somewhere
designed so that Small to Medium
and tools which will assist you to
in between, having a plan or process
Enterprise (SME Owners) can
work on your Business.
on how you are going to improve and
understand and implement it
innovate is crucial to its long term
without needing a Masters degree.
survival or the value you can sell or pass on to the next owners.
The key elements of our Business Success Program are available
As you can see in the diagram, there
to Fruit and Vegetable Industry
are a number of processes and
businesses free of charge and we
The way we all do business has changed
stages which obviously cannot be
are happy to provide an explanation
significantly over the last 10 years and
achieved overnight. Improvement
of how you can utilise these tools
you can expect that in the next 10 years
is an ongoing process and within
within your Business.
the amount of change will increase rather
each of the areas outlined we have
Simply contact our office.
than staying where it is today. Not improving or adapting in your business practices is a virtual guarantee that the enterprise will eventually wither
Business Success Program
on the vine. Over the past 25 years as an accountant,
NOW
the businesses I’ve seen be consistently
The Story So Far
successful are those that are always
Business Health Check Business Profile Immediate Wins (to get started)
striving to do better and are not content to simply continue the way we’ve always
GOALS
done things.
Where to?
Vision and Long Term Purpose Create Goals and resurrect worthwhile forgotten ones Be bold, include goals you think are out of reach
Customers and Employees are always
Alignment of Owners
expecting more, and that trend, in my view, will never change. Unfortunately, with so much information
WINNING STRATEGY How To Get There
out there on the Internet and TV about
Competitive strengths Your client/customer experience Non negotiable business practices
ideas that you could implement in your business, it is easy to get confounded by an excess of choice.
IMPLEMENTATION The Detail
That abundance of information is,
o Marketing plan – Action Plans
o Operations Plan
problem or issue that you may be facing
what its called our Business Success Program, which is a simplified process that can be adapted to any business and draws on research from many sources.
Team commitment
o Sales Team Training
searching for the solution to a specific
Affinity Plus Accounting has designed
Support and Outsourcing experts Detailed business planning
however, extremely useful if you are
in your business.
Business Plan Snapshot
o Financial Plan
Disclaimer This information is of a general nature and should not be viewed as representing financial advice. Users of this information are encouraged to seek further advice if they are unclear as to the meaning of anything contained in this article. We accept no responsibility for any loss suffered as a result of any party using or relying on this article.
ACTION EXECUTION MONITORING MODIFICATION
Focus and Adjustment
Results Reporting Coaching Monitoring Action Plans Feedback
Because your business matters... there’s Brismark Brismark is committed to Brisbane Produce Market, the Central Market System and the Horticultural Industry. We are dedicated to serving Brisbane Produce Market’s people and their businesses. We offer excellence in representation and service including: • The Brismark Credit Service • Debt Recovery Solutions • • • • • • • •
Training Fresh Test Quality Assurance/HACCP Recruitment Service Industry representation Human resource management Industrial Relations Advisory Service Workplace Health and Safety
To find out more please visit www.brismark.com.au Fresh Centre, Brisbane Markets, 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea, Qld 4106 PO Box 70, Brisbane Markets, Qld 4106 Tel: (07) 3915 4222 | Fax: (07) 3915 4224 Email: admin@brismark.com.au
15
Superannuation changes affect us all BY BRUCE WALTISBUHL, AUSTSAFE SUPER From 1 July 2013, the Australian
employees you will need to increase
Government is improving super by
this amount to 9.25% from 1 July
implementing some reforms to help
2013.
protect and grow the retirement savings of working Australians. If you are an employer, you play
From 1 July 2014, if you have 20 or more employees you must use the
The SG increases are: Financial year starting
New data and e-commerce standard
new data and e-commerce standard SG rate
when making super contributions on behalf of your employees.
an important role in helping your
1 July 2012
9%
employees save for their future.
1 July 2013
9.25%
What MySuper will mean
1 July 2014
9.5%
your employee contributions
1 July 2015
10%
electronically (e.g. online or through
see messages from the Federal
1 July 2016
10.5%
Government about MySuper, your
1 July 2017
11%
1 July 2018
11.5%
You will soon begin to hear and
superannuation obligations and what it means for your business. From 1 January 2014, if an employee
From 1 July 2019 onwards
12%
doesn’t make a choice of super fund,
This means you’ll have to provide specified information and submit
a clearing house). If you have less than 20 employees you have until 1 July 2015 to use the new standard for contribution submissions. The new data and e-commerce
you must pay their Superannuation
New payslip obligations
standard will mean:
Guarantee (SG) contributions into
To give your employees more
a fund with an approved MySuper
• Fewer data quality issues
information about their super, from
offering, such as Austsafe Super.
1 July 2013, you will be required
Not all funds will have an approved
to provide additional details on
MySuper offering so some
their payslips about the super that
employers might have to change
has been paid into their account,
default funds.
including the actual contribution
Removal of Super Guarantee (SG) upper age limit From 1 July 2013, the upper age limit for paying super for an employee will be removed to encourage mature workers to remain in the workforce. This means you will need to make SG contributions for any employees aged 70 years and over. Changes to the rate To help grow Australian workers’ savings for retirement, the compulsory SG rate will gradually increase from 9% to 12%. If you pay the minimum 9% contribution on behalf of your
payment dates and amounts paid. Please note, the timing of this change is subject to the relevant legislation being passed in Parliament. Information will be updated regularly at ato.gov.au/ yoursuper.
• A simpler, more consistent contribution process • Fewer lost accounts and unclaimed monies • Faster processing of employees’ money into their super account, and • Lower overall processing costs. For more information please contact AustSafe Super on 1300 131 293 or visit the Australian Taxation Office website at ato.gov.au.
industry C on fe re nc e Se a so n Call for farming commissioner
Cool conference season underway Late Autumn and the winter months are
Association Australia-New Zealand Fresh
traditionally the horticulture industry’s
Connections Conference.
busiest conference season with this year
In July, the Gold Coast is the venue for
Independent Senator
no exception.
Nick Xenophon has been
In May, the industry saw the staging of
Pear Limited Summerfruit and Nashi
unsuccessful in calling
the Queensland Strawberry Growers
conference. Bowen Gumlu District
for an inquiry into fruit
Association Conference Dinner on the
Growers Association will provide a
and vegetable prices
Sunshine Coast, the Australian Mango
warmer wintery venue for its annual gala
Growers Association conference in
dinner in the same month.
Cairns, the start of the Australian Banana
By the start of Spring, the Australian
and wanting to see the appointment of a farming commissioner.
the combined Australian Apple and
Growers Association congress on
Melon Association will hold its
Mr Xenophon said the move
the Sunshine Coast and the AUSVEG
conference in Bundaberg and
by supermarket chains to
Convention on the Gold Coast.
Mushrooms Australia will meet in Cairns.
In June, the who’s who of the
This feature takes a look at the
horticulture industry headed to
conferences, what happened and what
Sydney for the Produce Marketing
is planned for the weeks ahead.
slash vegetable prices is another example of the lack of power for small businesses and farmers. He said a commissioner would have the power to
Fresh Connections an industry highlight
punish anyone who draws
Up to 1,000 people gathered at the
Brisbane wholesalers joining growers,
up unfair contracts between
Sydney Convention and Exhibition
packers, marketers and other supply
supermarkets and growers.
Centre for the staging of the annual
chain stakeholders at the event.
"The Horticulture Code
Fresh Connections conference as Fresh
of Conduct needs to be
Source magazine went to print.
strengthened and needs
The event has become one of the
to include supermarkets
biggest on the fresh-produce calendar.
otherwise it's just not effective,” Mr Xenophon told ABC Radio.
A full report on this conference will appear in the September Fresh Source magazine.
It is the second year that the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries has hosted the Produce Marketing Association AustraliaNew Zealand, with up to 900 people attending the Melbourne conference last year. Brisbane Markets Limited and Brismark are annual attendees and trade show contributors with a strong turnout of
From left, Michael Worthington, CEO, PMA A-NZ, with Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries pres ident Shane Schnitzler organised a strong program for Fresh Connections 2013.
17
Strawberry growers meet Brismark’s GM
Increasing demand a key for mango industry
Brismark General Manager Gail Woods
The biggest challenge for the
thinking – ‘how do we get that up
was the guest speaker at the Queensland
Australian mango industry is to
to eight or nine million a year?’
Strawberry Growers Association (QSGA)
increase the demand for fruit and
conference dinner in May, kicking off the
do what growers need to do to
bountiful strawberry season ahead.
improve fruit quality.
Mrs Woods joined up to 200 growers,
That’s according to Australian
wholesalers and supply chain attendees
Mango Industry Association
at the Pelican Waters Golf Resort and
(AMIA) chairman Mark Nucifora,
Spa on the Sunshine Coast for the
speaking to 180 delegates at
annual event.
the ninth Australian Mango
It was also the staging of the 2nd Annual
most successful in recent years with a field day in the Mareeba area and workshops a highlight. The AMIA is planning new advertising campaigns in the months ahead.
Conference, held in Cairns in May.
Industry QSGA Awards, to acknowledge
“Customers love our product
growers and associates for their
but we’re a summer fruit and we
contributions to the industry in areas
compete with many other fruits
such as community, retail development,
in season, so we have to work on
innovative farm management and
growing our share market,” Mr
technology.
Nucifora said.
Past QSGA President Lynda Rohlf was
“We’re growing seven million
accepted into the QSGA’s hall of fame.
trays of mangoes a year across
The Queensland strawberry industry is
The conference was one of the
the country and we need to be
ure, Fisheries State Minister for Agricult (left) awards eigh McV John stry and Fore an Industry with s Deli r Pete art AIMA stalw recent mango Development Award at the industry conference.
worth $150 million to the Queensland economy, producing more than 60 million punnets of strawberries each year.
graphic design web solutions branding packaging
eral Manager Gail Guest speaker, Brismark Gen in. Woods, and her husband Kev
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Celebrating winning QSGA’s innovative farm management award were, from left, Melissa McGruddy and Robyn Stevenson.
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always thinkin
industry Banana industry issues require a united approach The banana industry must address its
He encouraged all growers to
major issues in a united approach,
participate in an upcoming review of
Australian Banana Growers’ Council
the industry’s national levy which funds
(ABGC) Chairman Doug Phillips has told
research and development projects as
the industry’s national conference.
well as banana marketing,
Giving an industry overview during the
“It’s now been five years since the
Banana Industry Congress 2013 earlier
introduction of the levy. It has allowed
this month, Mr Phillips asked delegates
the industry to benefit from key
to participate in discussion and debate
research and development initiatives.
on the issues facing the industry.
It also funds our marketing activities,”
About 360 delegates attended the
Mr Phillips said.
national event on the Sunshine Coast
“While our research and developoment
from 29 May to 1 June 2013 including
and marketing initiatives have been
growers, wholesalers, retailers,
successful, we should never be
researchers and suppliers.
complacent and we should always strive
In his overview, Mr Phillips identified
for improvement. That is why later
major issues for the industry as
this year a review of the existing levy
preparation for and management of
and development of a new strategic
destructive weather events, biosecurity,
investment plan will occur.
pest and disease management, research
“This is obviously an important
and development and banana marketing.
process and I would encourage all
“We are a national industry and the best
growers to get involved – this is your
way we can manage all the issues I have
money that is being invested and this
outlined is through a united, national
is your opportunity to influence how
approach,” Mr Phillips said.
it is spent.”
Strong turnout for annual AUSVEG Congress Brisbane Markets wholesalers and administration teams joined up to 1,000 people at the AUSVEG Convention held on the Gold Coast at the end of May, returning to the Jupiter’s Casino site that hosted the event in 2010. The 30 May to 1 June event had a busy program including the ever controversial Great Debate, this year discussing genetic modification; a food security panel, trade display, Women in Horticulture breakfast and the Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner. Brisbane Markets joined the Central Markets Association of Australia to again sponsor the Innovative Marketing Marketing award, which was taken out this year by Adelaide Produce Market for its children’s education program, Crunch Bunch.
er Andrew Craigie, From left, Tasmanian grow Wendy Helps and Adelaide Produce Market’s chat at the AUSVEG Stanthorpe’s Ross Cannavo Convention.
Co nf er en ce Sn ip pe ts
19
Women in horticulture reminded of their role The annual AUSVEG convention
Australian Senator Anne Rustin to
2013 Women in Horticulture
acknowledged the role of women
speak during the cruise.
Excellence Award.
during its conference with a Gold
“People don’t realise what women
Belinda works between 18 to 20
Coast Broadwater Cruise and a
do but being vocal about it helps.
hours a day, running the growing
Horticulture Excellence Award.
If I have managed to change just one
and processing facility on the
2012 Women in Horticulture
woman’s perception of what she does,
Gold Coast.
Excellence Award winner Tina
it is all worth it,” Mrs Lamattina said.
Lamattina, a mother of six and
Later that evening, Queenslander
women in farming is improving
driving force behind the Lamattina
Belinda Adams, of Coastal
but they need to stand up and
Growing Group was joined by South
Hydroponics, was awarded the
be counted.
Ms Adams said the perception of
GM showdown at AUSVEG debate AUSVEG delegates heard a passionate
improvement it makes to our food
debate between pro and anti
yields, the social and economic
genetically modified (GM) cropping
solutions it offers and testing that
advocates during it’s much publicised
proved its safety.
conference centrepiece. Four speakers were handpicked for their involvement in the GM debate, each with passionate views on the controversial subject. Debating for the use of GM was Paula Fitzgerald, manager of biotechnology at Dairy Australia, and Professor T.J. Higgins, executive director at
Debating against the use of GM were Scott Kinnear, director and co-founder at the Safe Food Foundation and Institute, and Dr Maarten Stapper, director at BioLogic AgFood. Their argument centred on the lack of robust testing, the expansion
Agrifood Awareness and also an
of its use not meaning it was right,
Honorary Research Fellow at CSIRO’s
problems with regulators and data,
Plant Industry department.
and GM contamination into
Argument centred on the level of GM cropping around the world, the
Catching up at the AUSVEG were w (from left) Brisbane Markets CEO Andre Young, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association Executive Officer Peter Hockings, 6th generation Tasmanian farmer Michael Badcock and Brismark General Manager Gail Woods.
other crops. The debate will no doubt continue.
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association’s Sarah Simpson (left) and Bowen tomato and vegetable grower Melita Jurgens, of Vee Jays, at the AUSVEG trade show.
International competiveness a concern Growers are increasingly concerned
Victorian vegetable producer Luis
“When it comes to exports, we’re
about international competitiveness
Gazzola said costs of production in
also expected to carry risk to the end
and problems facing exports. The topics were at the top of the discussion list during an AUSVEG convention breakfast, held during
Australia were squashing growers. “When farmers in South Africa only have to pay their workers $12 a day
of the line.” Other topics raised with the Syngenta, Bayer and Dupont panellists included overregulation,
30 May to 1 June conference on the
and we have to pay ours $25 an hour,
improving industry image and a lack
Gold Coast.
we can’t compete,” he said.
of benchmarking data.
industry Horticulture leaders discuss Queensland’s future A group of Queensland’s horticultural
genetic stock, industry marketing of fresh
leaders met to discuss ways they can
produce, consumer focused value chains
progress the future prosperity of the
and opportunities to reduce red tape
industry.
related to quality assurance and interstate
The Horticulture Industry Development
market access.
Group (Horticulture IDG) met in Brisbane
The group has also provided feedback
in April to set the work for the year ahead.
and input into the development of the
It’s members, including independent
Queensland Government’s horticulture
chairman Selwyn Snell, Brisbane Markets
workforce development plan.
CEO Andrew Young, grower association representatives and other horticultural leaders, provided a wealth of experience
Another key area is the development of a transport blueprint (see article below).
to plan for the future.The group was
Queensland’s horticulture sector is
formed in October last year to work
encouraged to provide input to group’s
with the Queensland Department of
activities.
Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
For further information on the 2013
Discussions centred on mechanisation
work priorities, contact
and robotics, opportunities for improved
HorticultureIDG@daff.qld.gov.au.
Horticulture IDG guides Transport Blueprint Queensland’s Horticulture Industry
Blueprint, once complete, will identify
Group (IDG) has met with Queensland
key impediments to transport and
Government officials to highlight
provide suggestions for improvement
key transport and road infrastructure
in road infrastructure and transport
priorities and issues facing the
systems.
horticulture sector. Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFFQ) in collaboration with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, has recognised an increasing portion of
The Horticulture IDG supports this approach and has provided an overview of key limitations in the existing transport network and infrastructure that directly impact horticultural businesses.
producer expenditure is on transport.
Anyone wishing to make a submission to
As a result, it has begun a project to
the blueprint can contact Russ Sangster,
better define the issues impacting the
DAFF, on 07 32393214 or email
transport of agricultural commodities
russell.sangster@daff.qld.gov.au.
throughout the state. The Queensland Agriculture Transport
The blueprint is scheduled for completion in July 2013.
Brisbane Markets hosts National Food Plan launch
21
Brisbane Markets’ Saturday Fresh
a marquee of fresh fruit with a
long workshop for industry invitees
retail markets hosted the launch of
backdrop of working chefs, using the
at Brisbane Markets’ Fresh Centre
the Federal Government’s National
busy Saturday Fresh Market setting
where the tougher questions were
Food Plan in May, with the Plan
to present his ideas to place Australia
asked.
winning kudos from some sectors of
on the world food map to a sea of
the food industry but being called
recognisable industry heavy weights.
“too little too late” by many.
The initiative is Australia’s first National Food Plan, which is being
The cook up with host, celebrity chef
described as a road map for the
Federal Agriculture Minister Joe
Alistair McLeod from Tank Restaurant
future for both Australia’s food
Ludwig unveiled the new plan under
and Bar, was completed with an hour
businesses and consumers.
National Food Plan content Environmentalists and some farming
‘Australian made’ is a little yellow
AUSVEG spokesman William
groups are lining up to criticise the
kangaroo in a little green triangle,
Churchill said the plan doesn’t
Federal Government’s Food Plan,
and it has for years struggled for
go far enough.
a multimillion-dollar road map of
stricter regulations to ensure
sorts, with all roads leading to Asia.
consumers know they’re buying Australian.
There’s $30 million for researching
“People should be able to identify where their product has actually come from, and the Federal
the Asian diet and food preferences,
Not everyone is over the moon
Government doesn’t want to
and for promoting Australian-grown
about the food plan. The Public
implement those sorts of changes.
and processed food.
Health Association says it makes no mention of tackling obesity and
Almost $6 million will go to
encouraging people to eat more
promoting Australian agriculture, and another $2 million to developing a stronger Australian food brand.
The Australian Conservation Foundation is critical of opening up
One of the 16 recommendations is to establish an Australian council of food to streamline the message from all the producing groups like the Food and Grocery Council and other agricultural councils like horticulture groups, cattle and the National Farmers Federation.
northern Australia to agriculture, saying it will be an environmental disaster, but on the trade front,
changes to anti-dumping legislation. “The Coalition, on the other hand, is going to change the onus of proof from the instigator having to prove that they’re not guilty of dumping, as opposed to the people that are suffering injury.
Australia still has to develop free trade agreements, but exporters say the paperwork is too hard. AUSVEG is not happy. The vegetable growers’ peak body, says given
There is $2 million in the Federal
Australia now imports $908 million
Government’s food plan to strengthen existing Australian-made logos and brand Australian-
fresh fruit and vegetables.
“There are also concerns with
worth of fruit and vegetables, there are key elements missing.
made produce overseas.
Celebrity chef Alistair McLeod (left) cooks up a plan with Federal Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig.
(left) speaks with AUSVEG CEO Richard Mulcahy Young minutes before Brisbane Markets CEO Andrew to better explain the a National Food Plan workshop document to industry.
industry In d us try Bit es ..... . IROs assist flood recovery Fifteen industry recovery officers (IROs) are working in Queensland to support agriculture as it rebuilds after the flooding that followed ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald in January. The funding for this project is being provided jointly by the state and federal governments. The IRO’s are concentrating on areas most affected by the winds, rain and flooding, and which the government has declared eligible for higher levels of flood assistance. Growers wishing to speak to IROs in horticulture should call Rowena Beveridge on 4613 1077 (Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim, Somerset, Southern Downs, Western Downs, Toowoomba, Goondiwindi and Ipswich), Robert Doyle on 4153 255 (North and South Burnett), Lene Knudsen on 0429 000 179 (Gympie, Sunshine Coast, Logan, Gold Coast) or Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers on (07) 4153 3007 (Bundaberg, Central Highlands, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Banana and Fraser Coast).
Train transport package a win for rural Queensland Farmers have welcomed a significant Queensland Government investment in rail infrastructure that is planned for the Darling Downs. Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson and Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister John McVeigh said up to $50 million in savings would be reinvested in additional passing loops across the Toowoomba Range.
Loophole means Chinese processed food entering Processed foods are now the largest category of food imported into Australia. According to ABC Rural, the value of processed or package fruit and vegetable imports
Mr McVeigh said the infrastructure would be delivered from savings
increased by $264 million over the past two
negotiated from existing freight contracts over the next two years.
years to make up 15% of food imports.
“Up to 20 additional train paths per week will be made available for
New Zealand and China are the largest
farmers to get crops off road and onto rail and double the current capacity,” Mr McVeigh said.
exporters, although increasingly the “Kiwi” produce is actually grown in China, exported
“Toowoomba is already a freight gateway for western Queensland and
frozen to New Zealand and packaged there,
this will allow us to get the balance right between road and rail.”
according to industry organisation AUSVEG.
16% increase in stonefruit volumes
23
John Moore, CEO of Summerfruit Australia, says that there was a 16% increase in stone fruit volumes in the season just finished. “The 2012/13 growing season was far superior than in previous years due to the increase chill hours and the excellent weather in the development of fruit set stages,” Mr Moor
Vegetable growers survey to help plan future
said.“The above average warmer weather was
The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences
most pleasing for growers.”
(ABARES) is conducting a survey of vegetable growers that will help identify
Mr Moore said Australia’s proximity to the
challenges and trends across the vegetable industry.
Asian markets gave a little competitive edge
The annual survey of growers is taking place through the winter months and has
over other Southern Hemisphere traders
been co-funded by Horticulture Australia Limited using the National Vegetable
for timely marketing and a quality factor.
Levy with funding from the Australian Government.
However, the larger exporting countries,
The survey will assist the vegetable industry to better understanding the
like Chile, saturate the markets when they
challenges facing growers and to re-direct its Research and Development
are in full production.
investment accordingly.
Domestically the ongoing price wars
Surveyed growers have previously ranked the impediments to future business
amongst large retailers, pushed down
viability as increasing farm input costs and low prices due to imports of fresh,
prices in the favour of the consumer, but at
frozen and processed product, with the bottom 25% of growers experiencing
the expense of the industry as a whole.
negative farm cash income in 2010/11.
Fruit growers to ‘bee’ aware
Delayed strawberry planting may prove fruitful for growers
Tonnes of macadamias this season
Queensland Strawberry Growers
More than 4000 tonnes of new season
Apple and pear growers are being urged to establish better pollination practices to avoid an incursion of varroa mite.
Association (QSGA) says wet weather
macadamia nuts are expected to hit
The mite, which is a widespread problem in
earlier this year has delayed planting of
stores nationwide this season.
New Zealand, destroys hives and reduces
some varieties, but it may be a blessing
bee productivity.
in disguise.
Pollination is an important part of the apple
QSGA Industry development officer
which will translate to 11,500 tonnes of
and pear growing process. Growers need to
Jennifer Rowling said last year’s bumper
kernel, with about 35% going straight to
be vigilant for signs of the pest.
harvest reduced prices and farmers’ profits.
the domestic market.
Anything that can affect the population of
She said delays in planting some varieties
Macadamia Australia advised that when
bees is a concern. Pollination is becoming
this year should help to ensure a more
buying macadamias, consumers should
a really key management factor within the
consistent supply throughout the season.
look for ones that are plump, crunchy
orchards, so people’s awareness is certainly becoming increased.
She said growers were optimistic about a more consistent crop this year.
Local growers have projected a yield of 39,000 tonnes of nut-in-shell this harvest
and light-coloured. The nuts must be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated after opening.
industry Promising start to growing season BY SARAH SIMPSON, BOWEN GUMLU GROWERS ASSOCIATION (BGGA) The Bowen Gumlu region has had a
of stakeholders from within the
good start to 2013 with some growers
horticulture industry.
kicking into production in the later part of April.
Contributors to this project to date include the Kapiris Brothers, Prospect
Melons coming out of the region have
Agriculture, BGGA, Queensland DAFF,
been of high quality, with some growers
Coles and Woolworths with others
picking earlier than previous years.
currently involved in discussions to
However a prolonged summer in the
commit funding to this project.
southern regions of Australia has led to an average market price.
This study will combine the expertise of plant virologists, entomologists, plant
Late April also saw the first tomatoes
breeders, agronomist and extension
and capsicums leave the region. The
specialists to take a holistic approach to
quality of these commodities has been
fully understand the disease complex.
good and is expected to improve as the season progresses.
This project team will then develop and implement a management program
The Systems Approach for capsicums
through grower engagement across
and tomatoes in the Bowen Gumlu
the region to reduce the impact of the
region has also been progressing with
disease and hence ensure continuity of
the support of the State Government.
product supply to consumers.
Currently the Systems Approach is
This approach will also be transferrable
moving forward with its completion
to other regions impacted by these
and implementation hopefully in this
viruses.
growing season.
Planning is well underway for BGGA
BGGA appreciates the work done by
Annual Gala Night which is set for
Queensland’s Minister for Agriculture,
27 July. This night is shaping up to be a
Fisheries and Forestry John McVeigh
great event and one in which
for providing support and resources
we hope all will enjoy.
to market access issues faced by the horticulture industry. BGGA will be also be collaborating with Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) on a Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus and Potato Leaf Roll Virus research study to be conducted this year in the region. This project will be funded by a range
25
Effective use of email communication BY SAL TRUJILLO, BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER The use of email communication is predominant in the
• Consider the tone of your email. Remember that
business arena and the increasing use of mobile devices
your reader can easily misread your tone in the
has given the experience of email a new dimension.
email as your words are not supported by the usual
It is therefore important to use such a powerful tool of communication effectively to maintain healthy business relationships. Here are some tips to help you communicate effectively through email: 1. Consider when the use of email is appropriate. Email
communication cues such as body language, gestures or voice inflections. • Always consider spelling and grammar. Although email communication can be a less formal method of communication does not mean that spelling and grammar are any less important. You should always take time to proofread your email before sending it.
communication is appropriate when you need to get
Use spelling and grammar checkers as much
in touch with a person who is hard to reach, you need
as possible.
to send an electronic file, to distribute information to a large group or perhaps you need a written record of your conversation. Email communication is NOT effective if your message is long or complicated, information is highly confidential or when your message can be misconstrued or is emotionally charged. 2. Consider your audience. Email is another form of communicating a message to another person/s. We have different opinions about the use, content, and expectations of emails. Therefore to consider your audience you should ask yourself the following questions: Who is your audience? What is your
• Be aware of the information you are sending. Be aware of everyone who is likely to see the message and extremely careful when replying to a message. If you hit ‘reply all’ by mistake, the message will be sent to everyone on the ‘To’ and ‘Cc’ lists of the original message. In addition, be aware of the old mail that is below your new message when you click on the reply button. Following up with a phone call, or face-to-face communication upon sending an important email can also assist in ensuring that the intended message is communicated and desired outcome achieved.
audience relationship to you? And what impression do you want to make? When writing emails you should consider the following: • Keep messages short and simple. Avoid causing confusion to your reader/s so keep your writing to a minimum. Try to arrange your message/ information as clearly as possible. Briefly state the reason for writing the email and don’t forget to state the desired outcome at the end of the message.
@
industry Federal Budget spares agricultural funding cuts Agriculture has been spared major
DAFF officials attributed this year’s
funding cuts in the 2013/14 Federal
increase to a key plank in the Farm
Budget.
Finance package announced on 27 April,
However, Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan outlined “savage hits” to tax receipts “far, far bigger than anyone expected”, in his
comprising concessional loans of up to $650,000 at an anticipated 4% rate, to help struggling farmers restructure debt.
budget announcement in May, which
Another $70 million has been brought
generated a $17 billion revenue deficit.
forward under the $249 million Carbon
Horticulture commentators say that although major agricultural programs remained steady, the result was still disappointing.
Farming Futures program to bolster DAFF’s budget. The budget papers also detailed other aspects of the Farm Finance package, including an additional 17 Rural Financial
The budget may have other flow-on
Counselors and increasing the non-
effects for farmers with $3.9 billion
primary production income threshold
slashed in assistance measures for
for Farm Management Deposits, from
industries affected by the carbon tax –
$65,000 to $100,000.
including agricultural processors.
Department officials said loan
Despite the grim revenue forecast,
funds would become available on
the Federal Department of Agriculture
July 1 this year – but State and Territory
Fisheries and Forestry’s (DAFF) modest
governments were yet to sign off on
budget was increased from $1.6 billion
how they would be delivered through
to $1.9 billion.
State agencies.
Key Federal Budget new initiatives – Agriculture • $420 million Farm Finance package to alleviate debt pressures and provide targeted financial assistance to farmers, through maximum $165,000 concessional loans ($210 million 2013/14 and $210 million 2014/15). • $99.4 million Farm Household Allowance to support farmers in hardship under National Drought Program Reform. • $25.4 million National Monitoring System for Agricultural Chemicals Residues in Food ($5 million in 2013/14). • $750,000 boost to Rural Financial Counseling services in flood affected regions in Queensland.
Status Quo • $2.1 billion over five years for Caring for our Country ($200 million in second phase of Reef Rescue program over five years, starting 2013/14). • $238.2 million commitment to Research, Development and Extension funding for relevant research and development corporations. • $379.9 million for construction of a state-of-the-art post-entry quarantine facility (announced in 2012/13 budget).
Who are my customers and who do I want them to be?
27
BY BRISMARK GENERAL MANAGER GAIL WOODS There is a Chinese proverb that states,
development, building customer
performance indicators and targets
“When planning for a year, plant corn.
relationships and our brand/image
need to be added to monitor
When planning for a decade, plant
to provide my customers with value?
progress. The basic rational here is
trees. When planning for life, train and educate people.”
Processes - Supply chain management (Driver)
Strategic Planning is all about planning
Questions: Do I need to innovate?
the direction of your business and
Can I improve product quality,
building its future capabilities to match
logistics or any part of my
short, medium and long term goals.
operations?
Brismark deals with hundreds of small
Capabilities (Driver)
to medium sized businesses on a daily basis through our wholesaler members and almost 1,000 buyers who use our credit service facilities. Do you have a strategic plan for your business? Many don’t, and those who do may well tick the box, say that’s done and put in on the shelf. But others use it to lead their business. In general, businesses do not plan to fail – they fail to plan. Once developed, the next step is to use the Strategic Plan to direct the business. So that you know your plan is working it needs to be expressed in such a way
Question: Do I need to up-skill my employees or use technology in a different way?
that well trained employees using appropriate technology (driver) can create excellence in supply chain management (driver) and deliver a satisfied customer mix and operating cost reductions (results). Much has been written about Strategic Planning, but it does not need to be a difficult process. Think about where you are now and the direction you want to go and
The answers are expressed
how you are going to get there and
as objectives/goals and key
keep monitoring your progress.
Are you ready for the changes to super?
that it is able to measure performance. A strategic planning exercise alone will be beneficial to any business. There are many approaches to use – but some fundamental questions need to be
AustSafe Super is and we can help you!
considered about what result you want
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for the business and then how to drive
Bruce Waltisbuhl 0400 995 824
the business. For example consider these questions: Financial (Result)
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17/04/13 4:10 PM
export Fruit and vegetable imports rise A Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) report indicates that processed fruit and vegetables contributed the majority of food imports between 2010 and 2012, a figure of around 15%. According to the report titled Australian food statistics 2011/12, New Zealand continues its reign as the biggest source of the nation’s food imports.
Australian farm exports to decline The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) annual outlook report says the value of Australian farm exports will decline in the next five years. It will drop from a projected $35.9 billion this financial year to $33.7 billion in 2017 /18, and
New Zealand imports Chinese produce, processes it in New
increases in production elsewhere will keep a lid
Zealand and exports it to countries like Australia under the guise
on prices in the longer term.
of ‘Made in New Zealand with local and imported ingredients’.
Although the global population was set to expand, from almost seven billion today to nine
Chinese grape exports take off
billion in 2050, the major increase in food prices
Exports of Australian seedless grapes into China have skyrocketed
ABARES reported.
this year.
- of about 12% since 2007 - had already occurred,
Growing demand from Asia would still present
The Australian Table Grape Association expects to export
opportunities for Australian farmers but there
400 containers of crimson seedless grapes to China, up from
would be stiff competition from increased
11 containers last year.
production within Asia and in other low-cost
Chief executive Jeff Scott says the goal is to reach 1,000 containers within two years. “I think the growers are starting to realise that China is a viable and important market,” he said. “If the quality of fruit is there, then the price’s acceptable to the growers.” “I can see more planting in crimson happening over the next two to three years with the intent of exporting more to China.”
countries. The ABARES report shows that fresh fruit imports were close to overtaking exports in 2011/12 as horticultural producers came under pressure from the high Australian dollar and increasing input costs.
29
DAFF Registration increase threatens export viability Brisbane Markets fresh produce
Spreyton Fresh director Michelle
Mr Minnis said the AQIS inspections
exporters are angry at the Federal
Distill said her company only
provided benefit across the
Government’s decision to end part-
exported for about four or five weeks
horticulture industry and community
funding of export inspection fees at a
a year in the summer, to countries
and therefore exporters should not be
time when the industry is struggling.
including Taiwan, China, Japan, Korea
slugged the full cost of running AQIS.
Annual Federal Department of
and Thailand.
“If an industry doesn’t have
Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Mrs Distill said she couldn’t
an export focus, in years of
(DAFF) fees for registration of
understand the justification behind
underproduction, it faces an import
packing houses that export product
the increase and said the company
threat – it’s important to have an
to certain countries has risen from
would have to consider whether or
export and domestic market. Our
$550 to $1800 this year.
not it was even worth exporting.
domestic market has the most
However, the rises don’t stop there.
“The only thing we’ve heard is
Next year they are increasing from
because they (DAFF) had been
around $1,800 a year to $8,500,
inefficient, they have decided this is
Independent Senator Nick Xenophon
presenting an overall increase of
the way they have decided to recover
weighed into the debate as Fresh
1450% since 2011.
the money,” she said.
Source went to publication.
AS Barr’s Joe Saina said small
Despite the increases, Australian
He said if he’s in a position to
exporters across Australia,
Horticultural Exporters Association
negotiate with the Federal
particularly growers who export on
deputy chair David Minnis said
Government after the election, he’ll be
a seasonal basis, say the massive
the Australian Quarantine and
pushing to have the fees removed.
export charge increases will make
Inspection Service (AQIS) was “still
them unviable.
inefficient and costly”.
He said DAFF had been subsidising
He said exporters had no ability
for our smaller and budding
exporters for some years but was
to increase what they charged for
horticultural producers,” Senator
now planning on recuperating
their produce because “we’re facing
Xenophon said.
those costs, pushing hundreds of
a world market where all of our
businesses to the brink.
competitors are cheaper than us,
Mr Saina estimated about 700
even New Zealand”.
exporters had been paying the $550
“The way we’re going we’ll be
registration but with the massive
importing it all in 10 or 15 years time.
increase expected to close down
If that’s what government wants, tell
export from grower’s packing sheds
us and we can look to do something
and small operations, only as many as
else,’’ Mr Minnis said.
150 may remain.
concentrated retail sector in the world,” Mr Minnis said.
“We need to scrap these fees that are killing off jobs and opportunities
“I’ve said that unless this is changes very soon, I’ll be forced to put in legislation to the Senate to debate this further.”
events JULY
17-19 July INNOVATE OR REAL ESTATE QT Hotel, Surfers Paradise, QLD Contact: Helena Medhurst on (07) 3200 8299, email helena@loudevents.com.au A combined fruit industry conference bringing together the four key deciduous fruit industry sectors (apple, pear, summerfruit and nashi) representing $800 million of farm gate value.
27 July BOWEN GUMLU DISTRICT GROWERS ASSOCIATION GALA DINNER Bowen, QLD Contact: Sarah Simpon on (07) 4785 2860 or email IDM@BowenGumluGrowers.com.au. The annual gala dinner and networking function for Bowen growers and the horticulture industry.
AUGUST
8-17 August THE EKKA (ROYAL QUEENSLAND SHOW) RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane, QLD Contact: Visit www.ekka.com.au This is Queensland’s biggest show attracting about 500,000 visitors to enjoy more than 3,000 things from displays, ring events, carnival rides, parades, cooking shows and exhibits.
SEPTEMBER
ugh Improving farm productivity thro technology.
smart on-farm
Exploring agriculture’s role in Australia’s digital economic future The Regional Universities Network is holding the inaugural Digital Rural Futures Conference at the University of New England in Armidale from 26-28 June, 2013. The event will exchange ideas and case studies and explore the opportunities and challenges for
11-14 September
agriculture in Australia’s digital economic future.
40TH AUSTRALIAN MUSHROOM GROWERS' CONFERENCE
It will examine the national broadband
Pullman Reef Casino Hotel, Cairns, QLD
for Australia’s agricultural sector.
Contact: Phone Murray Tonkin (02) 9673 1490 or email murrayt@aimhigherevents.com.au or Deborah Fitzgibbon on deborahf@aimhigherevents.com.au. Featuring world renowned speakers, farm walks, agribusiness networking day and a range of workshops and social gatherings.
26-27 September AUSTRALIAN MELON ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE Bundaberg, QLD Contact: Dianne Fullelove on 0413 101 646, email idp@melonsaustralia.org.au or visit www.melonsaustralia.org.au/news/Melon-Conference-2013 A conference combining two days of Field Days including crop trials, industry exhibitors and on farm demonstrations, as well as a full conference program with speakers and official dinner.
infrastructure and see what opportunities it offers
The conference will also enable new ways to improve farm productivity through smart on-farm technologies, access a greater range of information and services, help create new market opportunities for our agricultural products and expertise, and improve the quality of life for rural Australians. Farmers and farmer groups, business leaders, rural advisory services, regional councils and development groups, government agencies and researchers/academics in the higher education sector are being encouraged to take part. Information on the conference and registration details are at www.une.edu.au/smart.
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*Source: Logistik Journal 2009
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