FS45

Print post approved pp 100001181

ISSUE: FORTY FOUR OCTOBER/2013

03-13

#

s urce MAGAZINE OF BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED

Food as medicines a healthy thought 09

ATURE

E BUNDABERG F

16

erg region

The thriving Bundab

f Fruit brate The King o le ce to n io ct au Mango 08

2 0 1 3 Mango Auction

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3

CEO comment Federal election

produce, in a meaningful way.

As widely anticipated, the Coalition won government in the recent Federal Election with Barnaby Joyce sworn in as the Minister for Agriculture.

Importantly, and as a first test of the new Federal Government’s credibility, it must address the existing Mandatory Horticulture Code of Conduct.

Mr Joyce is an experienced politician and has entered his new role at a time when many in horticulture have talked themselves hoarse wanting stronger policy commitment to protect what is perceived as a forgotten and fragile portfolio.

This anticompetitive and unworkable Code applies to just one part of the industry, it penalises growers, independent retailers and the many food service industry businesses who utilise and rely upon the Central Market System.

producer of quality, safe, fresh produce

As outlined on page 14, Mr Joyce is a man who has a background in farming, although not horticulture, and who has spent much of his life living in regional areas.

It does not apply to retail chains. Why?

the Brisbane Markets has in servicing the

Prior to the election, National Party Members were talking up the prospects of a Mandatory Code to regulate the activities of the retail chains.

The horticulture industry must demand a consistent approach in either repealing the anticompetitive mandatory horticulture code or applying a consistent approach across the whole industry, supermarkets included.

Asia Fruit Logistica

This position has been largely rejected by the Prime Minister, Tony Abbott who did state in the week prior to the election that he would support a Voluntary Code for the retail chains.

Asia Fruit Logistica was recently held in Hong Kong, as a major regional trade show for the fresh produce industry.

Around 6,000 delegates attended the event from over 60 counties.

The new Federal Government must look at how it can reduce the cost of red tape for business, it must look at how we can become more competitive in a global marketplace, and it must look at how it can stimulate the export of fresh

There were numerous delegates from Australia, with a number also represented directory through their own trade displays. This included a mix of both industry organisations and commercial operators.

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

All were keen to benchmark what Australia had to offer, and assess the opportunities for export growth.

Most came away with the optimistic view that Australia is respected as a and that opportunities exist to grow Australia’s export performance.

Brisbane City Plan 2014 BML recently made submissions to the Brisbane City Council (BCC) seeking recognition of the expanding role which needs of independent greengrocers, the food service industry and fresh fruit and vegetable exporters.

This submission was made as part of a review of the BCC’s existing City Plan.

BML operates under a “Special Purpose” designation as a produce market, but BML is arguing that more flexibility is needed to allow the Markets to service the changing and evolving needs of retailing and food service industries.

Andrew Young, Chief Executive Officer

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

p4

updates

FRESH MARKETS PMA tastes Brisbane Markets’ hospitality. . . . . . . . p6 Brisbane Markets: Safety first to last. . . . . . . . . . . . . p6 Politician’s visit creates a Buzz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7 Flood proofing and flood recovery different things. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p7

FRESH WHOLESALING

Betros Bros turns 75 years

Mango auction to celebrate The King of Fruit ������� p8 Brisbane greengrocers AOK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p8 Food as medicines a healthy thought. . . . . . . . . . . . p9 How capsicums coloured up winter. . . . . . . . . . . . p10 Brismark takes on national secretariat role. . . . . . p10 Support for mentoring program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p11

One of Brisbane Markets’ oldest buying brands, Betros Bros,

A SPOT OF HISTORY

Back then, it was brothers Peter and George Betros who opened

Brismark Credit Service – 40 years old!. . . . . . . . . p12 History honour for Brisbane Markets . . . . . . . . . . p13 Bring out your Rocklea stories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p13

the store. Today it is run by Kerry, Bevan and Murray Betros, who

has celebrated its 75th birthday.

The well known fruit and vegetables chain is located in Toowoomba and Dalby but began in Ruthven Street, Toowoomba, in 1938 during the Depression years.

say they keep a good dose of good old fashioned values as the foundation of their business.

FRESH POLITICS Meet our Agricultural Minister . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p14 Supermarket code discussions sink. . . . . . . . . . . . p14 What agriculture is promised. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p15 Australia’s trade revitalisation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p15

FRESH INDUSTRY Feature: Bundaberg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p16 Vegie growers destroy their crops . . . . . . . . . . . . . p18 Flooded farmers funding extension. . . . . . . . . . . . p19 Interstate banana ban posed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p19 BGGA annual events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p20 Bowen tour and dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p21 About BGGA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p21 Industry Bites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p22

ks out Brisbane Produce

Footballer Ben Hannant chec Market’s fruit mobile decals.

Fruit mobile a fresh look

FRESH BUSINESS

Watch out for a colourful car on the road covered in fresh fruit and

New provisions for workplace bullying. . . . . . . . . p25 A plan crucial for long term survival . . . . . . . . . . . p26 Austsafe Super’s Mysuper approval. . . . . . . . . . . . p28 A web-based eye on the highway. . . . . . . . . . . . . . p28

vegetables promoting a healthy eating message, fresh from Brisbane

FRESH RETAILING

retailers and schools across South East Queensland.

Small town style beats them. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p29 About the Retailer of the Month. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p29

Brisbane Produce Market’s Healthy Eating Ambassador and footy

FRESH FOR KIDS

during a recent school visit.

Footballer helps launch kids program. . . . . . . . . . p30

Produce Markets’ creative team.

The new look car decals are part of the Kids Go Fresh & Healthy and Retailer Programs that have the Holden Astra out and about at

star, Ben Hannant, took time out to check over the ‘fruit mobile’

Safe Work Week celebrations Brisbane Markets is celebrating Safe Work 2013, from 27 October to 2 November, promoting safety in the workplace, with a range or rewards, training information, reminders and banners to pass the safety message to our 3,500 strong community.

Remember, it’s not just a one week only concern. Turn to page 6 and check out some of the other safety work taking place on site in the lead up.

5

Fruit Logistica draws Aussie interest Brisbane Markets Chairman Tony Joseph and CEO Andrew Young joined other Australian horticulture industry representatives in Hong Kong in early September to attend the only annual international trade exhibition for fresh fruit and vegetable marketing in Asia.

There were 10% more companies from over 20% more countries exhibiting this year, with a record 372 exhibitors from 37 different countries in 17 national pavilions.

Visitor numbers were also up with over 6,000 trade delegates from some 60 different countries.

The event began with Asiafruit Congress, a high-powered program addressing

Asia Fruit Logistica drew 6,000 delegates from around the world, including Australia.

the hot topics for the business in Asia, from investment to import demand.

More adventurous with vegetable selection Almost two-thirds of shoppers have added new vegetables to their cooking repertoire in the past five years, according to new research involving more than 1,400 consumers.

The research findings, released by AUSVEG as part of an ongoing consumer research project, revealed 60% of consumers have added new vegetables to their weekly meals, with sweet potato and bok choy the rising stars of the vegetable world.

The study showed that broccoli in particular was becoming increasingly attractive in Australia, with around 70% of consumers purchasing it in August and eating it every three days on average.

Wholesalers remember their own Brisbane Produce Market wholesalers remembered their own with the running of the Don Alroe Memorial Cup at the Gold Coast Turf Club in September.

The memorial cup was a feature race for the Pink Ribbon Race Day. Brismark also sponsored a race in honour of the former wholesaler, who established Don Alroe & Sons, which is run today by his son and cup sponsor, Paul Alroe.

Don Alroe was heavily involved in industry matters

Aussies prefer to buy local The Australian Made Campaign says research shows Australian products are becoming increasingly valued by consumers.

Research commissioned by the campaign and conducted by Roy Morgan found 55% of respondents believed buying Australian made products had become more important to them in the past 12 months.

Just 12%, of more than 1,000 surveyed, said they wouldn’t buy Australian products if they were more expensive.

Australian Made Campaign chief executive Ian Harrison says the results are encouraging.

during his time in the Markets including an 11 year

“This is all about whether people have become a little bit

tenure as a member of the Brismark Executive. He also

more aware of the value of buying Aussie-made

spent four of those years as the Brismark President and

over the past 12 months and are they

a further two years as the Vice President.

prepared to pay a premium, although

This event raised funds to support breast cancer research through the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

we don’t seek to specify that premium, for buying Aussie-made, Aussie-grown produce.”

markets PMA tastes Brisbane Markets’ hospitality Produce Marketing Association

Association, based in the USA and is the

Australia-New Zealand (PMA A-NZ)

leading global trade association serving

received a taste of Brisbane Markets’

the entire fresh produce and floral

hospitality in August when horticulture

supply chains.

representatives flew in from across Australia for a workshop and board meeting hosted on site.

Brisbane Markets wholesalers took the opportunity to network and meet PMA A-NZ board members over a casual breakfast get together.

New PMA A-NZ chairman John Said, and former winner of a Brisbane Produce Market PMA A-NZ Innovative Marketing

s of the Lynch Group From left, Michaelis Bambaca Andrew Young chats with Brisbane Markets CEO hlogic at the PMA A-NZ Fres of bone Knee in Mart and Brisbane Markets breakfast.

Award, welcomed the 30 participants, encouraging them to learn more about what their membership has been doing for them and the industry.

The workshop involved an overview of the organisation’s progress before directors adjourned to the board room for their meeting.

PMA A-NZ Chairman John Said (left) chats with Brismark director and wholesaler Mark Murphy.

PMA A-NZ is the first stand-alone global affiliate of Produce Marketing

Brisbane Markets: Safety first to last The Brisbane Markets’ safety culture is firmly entrenched with the aim that every employee and visitor are able to leave safely and without injury after their visit to the site.

The ongoing drive to make the 3,500 people, who do business on the busy 77ha Rocklea site daily, actively work toward safety has been emphasised following months of work driven by

From left, Workplace Health and Safety Queensland inspectors Tony Sheean and Warren Stackman talk about safety issues on the Brisbane Markets site.

Brisbane Markets Limited’s (BML) Operations Department and the State’s safety regulator.

various safety procedures.

They were shown how their actions were

After weeks of observations and friendly

perceived by a Workplace Health and

advice, Workplace Health and Safety

Safety Inspector and given tips on avoiding

Queensland (WH&SQ) officers held

non-compliance issues that could cause

meetings in early September to take business

personal injury and hefty fines.

owners and employees step-by-step through

7

Politician’s visit creates a Buzz A throng of media representatives pressed in on businessman and Liberal politician Malcolm Turnbull at Brisbane Markets’ Buzz Café leading up to the election, in what was touted as a meeting of the “two Malcolms”.

Brisbane Markets tenant and former candidate for Moreton Malcolm Cole dropped in with Mr Turnbull for a cuppa and a catch up with Brisbane Markets Chairman Tony Joseph, CEO Andrew Young and Buzz Café operator Peter Kedwell, a well known wholesaler.

Mr Joseph took the opportunity to reiterate the importance of the

wholesaler and Pre-election promises: From left, ell, new Federal Kedw r Pete r rieto prop Café Buzz Malcolm Turnbull Member for Moreton, Liberal’s Chairman Tony ted’s Limi ets Mark ane and Brisb Joseph.

Federal Government’s commitment to horticulture and the need to move fresh produce quickly through the supply chain, and not get held up by red tape.

He was rewarded with a range of commitments to the horticulture sector from Mr Turnbull including a review of policies that are bogging down small industry. He spoke of parental leave issues, border control and the importance our digital age will play in boosting small business communication.

The two Malcolms donned aprons and cooked up some meals for the cameras for some pre-election publicity leading up to the Federal

Liberal’s Malcolm Turnbull (centre) shares a joke with Montague Fresh’s Hamish Montague (left) and John Hunter (right.

election in early September.

Flood proofing and flood recovery different things Brisbane Markets leapt to its own defence recently after a Brisbane newspaper chain reported its $17 million spent in flood reinstatement works after the devastating January 2011 water inundation were to “flood proof” the Rocklea site.

Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) CEO Andrew Young said the reinstatement works and the progressive raising of critical infrastructure in no way constituted or supported the claim made by Quest Community Newspapers.

“Flood proofing and flood recovery are entirely different issues and, unfortunately, could give the opinion that we are pouring millions of dollars into making our 77ha site water tight should another flood as large as January 2011 affect us again,” Mr Young said.

“This is not the case.”

Mr Young said BML acknowledged that despite the promises of numerous governments that the Wivenhoe Dam would make flooding in Brisbane a once-in-a-lifetime event, that flooding does remain a risk.

all part of BML’s $17 Upgrading dock levellers was s. million flood reinstatement work

2 0 1 3 Mango Auction

THE KING OFuchFRUIT Thank you very m

wholesaling Mango auction to celebrate The King of Fruit Get out your pen and mark Thursday,

event of the morning – the spirited

10 October, on your calendar for

auction of the symbolic first tray of

the 2013 Brisbane Markets Mango

mangoes for the season.

to two charities working towards

Has diabetes personally affected you or a family member, friend or colleague?

The annual charity event will be

a healthier community; Diabetes

We would like to understand

held at Brisbane Market’s central

Queensland, whose mission is to

how diabetes directly affects

trading floor as it has for the past 16

turn diabetes around and reduce

members of our Market

years, raising almost $800,000 to help

its impact on the community, and

community, and how healthy

Queensland charities in that time.

Life Education Queensland, which

eating has made a positive

provides vital drug and health

impact.

Auction to celebrate the start of the season for The King of Fruit.

Gear up to take part by buying raffle tickets, giving a gold coin donation for the breakfast barbecue or making

This year’s funds will be donated

education to children and young people.

If you would like to share your story, please contact

a bid on some great auction items

This year watch out for some King of

admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au

generously donated for the cause.

Fruit entertainment from 7am with

or phone 07 3915 4200.

If you are in the big league, get ready

the main auction at 8.15am.

to raise your hand for the major

Brisbane greengrocers AOK Brisbane greengrocers are again showing their Acts of Kindness (AOK) with a promotion in stores to raise funds for charity leading up to the 2013 Brisbane Markets Mango Auction.

There are 33 greengrocers across South East Queensland asking their customers to buy a $2 mango sticker to place it on a mango tree banner, hanging in their stores.

Each store is vying to become “Queensland’s Kindest Greengrocer” with last year’s winner Fresh Sensations, raising more than $2,500 for charity.

Sam Coco (centre), of Annerley’s Sam Coco Trading, raises the stakes at the 2012 Man go Auction.

9

Food as medicines a healthy thought Brisbane Markets Communications

Unfortunately horticulture still faces

with any health claims or innovation

Executive Vanessa Kennedy joined

its challenges including:

pertaining to food as medicines.

The pharmaceutical and scientific

The need for continued study to

sector’s lack of knowledge on the

prove theories before any claims

fresh fruit and vegetable industry.

will be taken seriously, which is

about 80 other attendees at the Food as Medicines Forum 2013 at Griffith University on the Gold Coast to look for opportunities and issues to spread the health benefits theme.

An increasing disquiet with dealing

costly and time consuming.

with government red tape to do

The annual workshop was organised in partnership with the Cosmetic and Pharmaceuticals Special Interest Group of the Australian Society for Microbiology (CAPSIG), Queensland Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning (SDIP) and Griffith University.

Food as Medicines speaker Sofroni Egelzos, of Niche Food Microbiology, said any of us working in the food industry, including horticulture, should have a crisis communication plan in place in case there is a food safety issue.

He said that being media and brand prepared for something goes wrong is imperative, because it will.

DID YOU KNOW?

While a wealth of information on topics from trialing studies on migraines to new diabetes tablets, health benefits of chia seed, wound care using honey, to the laws behind using indigenous people’s bush knowledge, some speakers were more horticulture focused.

SDIP Executive Director Adam Stevenson said Queensland was committed to

graphic design web solutions branding packaging

being Australia’s premier state of fruit and vegetable production, and confirmed agriculture as one of the State Government’s four pillars.

Apply our creative juices to your problem areas* *It’s not as gross as it sounds.

He was joined by Trade and Investment’s Edith Gomez speaking on overcoming challenges when trying to break into

logotype

symbol

new markets; Queensland’s Agriculture,

G SURVEY

Fisheries and Forestry’s Ross Bearkley who

DISCOVER

held a workshop on how food as medicines could fit into Queensland’s agriculture strategy; and University of Queensland’s Dr Yasmina Sultanbawas who spoke on using native foods as food additives.

slogan

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always thinkin

wholesaling Green capsicums ripen from green to red when left in the field to mature, change colour and become sweeter.

How capsicums coloured up winter There were so many capsicums on the

of the horticulture Industry Development

greengrocer’s shelves during winter that

Group Supply Chains and Markets

it was no wonder this colourful sweet

Working Group.

pepper, or bell peppers, also known by the Hungarian name of paprika, became the heart of a “Colour Your Winter”

That meant Brismark got to work closely with the Bundaberg and Bowen growing regions, with the relationships already

campaign.

confirmed after holding Memorandums

More than 30 Brisbane Produce Market

of Understanding with the Brisbane

greengrocers put their hands up to take

Markets for some years.

part in an industry-led Queensland

The pilot program had some great

Vegetables pilot research project that

benefits for shoppers. They found out

explored the buying and consumption

key facts about capsicums, such as the

habits of singles, couples and families.

difference between the colours, and

The research also looked at barriers

quick and easy ways to incorporate them

to the consumption of capsicums;

in their everyday meals.

preferred marketing materials; and media

Delicious recipes were featured in a

for promoting capsicums and other

Colour Your Winter recipe leaflet,

vegetables.

which was also found on the

Brismark joined with the Queensland

www.brisbanemarkets.com.au webpage.

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and

A full report is being produced to assess

Forestry to facilitate the project on behalf

the project and record what was learned.

Brismark takes on national secretariat role Brismark has taken on the role as the secretariat for the Australian Chamber of Fruit and Vegetable Industries.

and vegetable market wholesalers.

Wholesalers of each of the Central Markets in Adelaide, Brisbane,

by their market chambers, with each chamber comprising the Australian Chamber’s membership.

The organisation is a national body

Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth and

The secretariat had been hosted by

that represents Australia’s fresh fruit

Sydney are collectively represented

Melbourne’s chamber, Fresh State.

11

Support for mentoring program Entering the workforce can be confusing as well as a huge decision for our teenagers so Brismark has stepped in to help lend a hand in the

these workshops.

The Nyanda State High School community consists of diverse socio-economic groups representing

The Brismark team worked with 20 students over two days in August, providing them with plenty of opportunities to discuss key issues

decision making.

a significant range of ethnic and

and ask questions.

Brismark’s Employment Services

cultural backgrounds.

“It was a good chance to engage with

Manager Lisa Dwyer and Quality

Many young men and women are

these young men and women and

Assurance Officer Mark Girle

at risk of disengaging from school

hopefully provide some help and

volunteered as mentors for students

because they lack motivation

guidance to see them through the

attending a workshop at Nyanda State and confidence, or do not have a High School. significant male or female role model

next couple of years to achieve their goals,” Ms Dwyer said.

This is the school’s second year of

in their lives.

“You could definitely see the

working with the Beacon Foundation

The program is aimed at Year 10

difference the workshop had made in

and with United Way Australia to

students and designed specifically to

one day – with ongoing support these

help prepare young people for the

build their self-esteem and hope for

young people can stay motivated and

workplace through the delivery of

the future.

make a real difference in the future.”

history Brismark Credit Service – 40 years old!

BY BRISMARK GENERAL MANAGER GAIL WOODS In 1972 a delegation from the Brisbane

The Brismark Credit Service has seen many

Market Trust embarked on a World Market

changes over the past 40 years, particularly

Study Tour.

in the use of technology; however its aim

Our current History Ambassador and

remains as relevant today as it did in 1973.

former wholesaler, Arch Martin, at the

It continues to contribute to the stable

time Brismark’s wholesaling sector’s

and orderly marketing of produce through

representative of the Trust, was a member

the Brisbane Market and therefore to

of this tour and took particular interest in

the success of those associated with the

a credit control scheme operating in the

Brisbane Markets.

Toronto Terminal Market.

It works to manage credit, member bad

As a result of the success, the Toronto

debts, and facilitate the receipt of payments

Scheme had been enjoying since 1933, Arch,

due to wholesalers within the established

who was also on the Brismark Board, and

credit terms.

those who travelled with him, saw the merit in introducing the scheme into the Brisbane Markets.

The idea quickly got the support of the Brismark Board and work was progressed to adapt the credit service to Brisbane conditions and systems with a view to introducing it in 1973.

The terms of trade were set, the Brisbane Market Credit Association constituted, and Brismark’s members were surveyed to determine those prepared to participate.

Today, all of Brismark’s members are part of the Credit Service with this year’s throughput being over 10% up on the previous year.

It maintains its relevance, with the operations of the Credit Service benefiting all sectors of the fruit and vegetable industry.

The security that it provides member wholesalers indirectly protects the growers who supply them.

Of the 34 members at the time, 25 indicated

The cost savings and services it provides are

their willingness to try the new scheme.

shared by buyers. It truly continues to serve

Brismark agreed to administer the scheme in its infancy and accordingly Stage One commenced on 1 July 1973.

Over the following two years, the scheme was introduced to wholesalers and buyers.

the whole industry.

13

History honour for Brisbane Markets A project begun three years ago to

In presenting the award, State

He said uncovering the past and the

capture, record and display nearly

Librarian Janette Wright said BML had

award could never have happened

150 years of Brisbane’s market’s

seen many challenging times over

without the encouragement and the

history has netted an inaugural award the years but remained to lead by example, receiving the award for its for Brisbane Markets Limited (BML).

The Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame has announced BML the winner of the 2013 Queensland Business History Award during the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame induction dinner in July.

The honour was presented by the State Library of Queensland,

Andrew Young and the BML Board

excellent approach to record keeping. who saw this as a priority.

She said with historical records dating back over 150 years, Brisbane Markets Limited was proud of its past and preserved it’s unique and important historical documents and items.

Brisbane Markets History Ambassador Arch Martin said it had been an honour to help unlock the memories

Queensland Library Foundation

of his community’s past, with the

and QUT Business School to reward

octogenarian and third generation

businesses that cherish, protect,

wholesaler chairing a history task

value and share their corporate story. force committee set up in 2010.

DID YOU KNOW?

financial support of the BML’s CEO

Brisbane Markets His tory Task Force member Vanessa Ken nedy (left) accepts the Queenslan d Business History Award from State Librarian Janette Wright.

Brisbane Markets’ history collection is free to enter and is open 8am to 3pm daily at level 2, The Fresh Centre, Brisbane Markets, Sherwood Road, Rocklea.

Bring out your Rocklea stories It’s time to start telling tales, particularly if they are of your associations with the Brisbane Markets since its move to Rocklea

1964-2014 BRISBANE

MARKETS

AT ROCKLEA

in 1964.

Next year marks 50 years since Brisbane moved its Central Market from the congested Roma and Turbot Street markets in Brisbane

at Rocklea

City, bringing the entire market precinct into the one site.

Brisbane Markets History Task Force is looking for stories, photos, memorabilia and film from this period.

There are plans to produce a commemorative coffee table book, short film and to refresh the current Brisbane Markets History Collection with information our five decades of progress.

Send your information to Vanessa Kennedy at 07 3915 4256, 0438 388 111 or email vkennedy@brisbanemarkets.com.au.

located on the top The Brisbane Markets Club, once of our almost 50 part re, Cent ial merc floor of the Com lea. year history at Rock

politics Meet our Agricultural Minister Australia’s new Federal Agricultural

to establish a farmer "roundtable", of

Minister Barnaby Joyce says he has two

ordinary producers and rural men and

ambitions in his job: to put more cash in

women from around the country and not

farmers' pockets and to "take this great

the usual powerful peak organisations industry of ours back into the forefront of such as the National Farmers Federation. the nation, where it rightfully belongs".

He said ordinary producers would act as Mr Joyce was speaking in Townsville his sounding board on the best direction after being sworn into the new Federal he should take, giving "frank and Government Ministry the day before. fearless advice".

It was the first time the former senator, Mr Joyce and his wife Natalie have four who was raised on a sheep-and-cattle and Ran his own accountancy firm in the farm and who has lived in regional NSW western Queensland town of St George and Queensland most of his life; spoke publicly in his new role as Minister and as for a decade. the National Party’s deputy leader.

He is supported by Senator Richard

Mr Joyce said he wanted to represent

Colbeck, Parliamentary Secretary to the

the views of farmers. He has pledged

Minister for Agriculture.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are 42 ministers in total in the new Coalition Ministry team, including assistant ministers and parliamentary secretaries. Four of them were previously farmers.

Supermarket code discussions sunk Brisbane Markets wholesalers were on the

At the time, Mr Cobb was talking up the

front foot during the lead up to the recent

prospects of a new mandatory code to

Federal election with a delegation holding regulate the retail chains; however this talks with the then Shadow Minister

position, which has been supported by the

for Agriculture and Food Security

Nationals, appears to have been sunk by

Mr John Cobb.

the now Prime Minister Tony Abbott just

A clear message was given to him to pass to his colleagues regarding recognition of the Central Mar ket System, and the

days before the election when he said that an incoming Coalition Government would support a voluntary industry code.

need for a commercial and consistent

The Market wholesaling sector is seeking

approach regarding the Mandatory

that the new Prime Minister applies a

Horticulture Code of Conduct.

consistent approach and set up standards

Supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths

in relation to these issues.

are working with the Australian Food and

The current approach is anti-competitive

Grocery Council to develop a voluntary

and disadvantages independent

code of conduct to address any supply

greengrocers and the foodservice sectors

chain competition issues.

of the industry.

15

What agriculture is promised In the lead up to the Saturday, 7 September election, the Coalition promised: • Research and Development (R&D) - Increase the Federal Government’s contribution to R&D by $100 million.

• Market Access - Commit $15 million in the form of rebates to small exporters for Export Certification registration costs.

• Biosecurity boost - Commit $20 million to strengthen biosecurity and quarantine, establish a Biosecurity Flying Squad as a first response unit and create a first response

Australia’s trade revitalisation New Prime Minister Tony Abbott has promised a Coalition Government will revitalise free trade negotiations to benefit agricultural exports and lower regulatory burdens to increase farm profitability, including his key priority: abolishing the carbon tax.

biosecurity and containment fund to tackle alien pest and

Mr Abbott said his party’s plans to lower business

disease incursions.

operating costs and increase market access for

• Minor use chemical registration - Provide $8 million towards minor use chemical permits to increase access to new technology and safe, effective pest and disease control options.

• Agricultural education - Allocate $2 million over four years

agricultural exports into the Asian region strengthened other initiatives in the Coalition's agricultural policy.

He said if Australia was serious about being a food bowl for Asia in the future, the government had to conclude

to assist with the integration of agriculture into school

lingering Free Trade Agreements and improve trade

curriculums.

conditions.

• Native title respondent funding - Provide $2.2 million

Agriculture is one of the Coalition’s five key economic

over two years from the Caring for Our Country/Landcare

pillars, along with innovative manufacturing, services

program to fund Native title respondent funding for the

and education as well as mining and two million new

equitable finalisation of existing native title claims.

jobs over a decade.

industry Bu nd ab er g Fe at ur e The thriving Bundaberg region

They’re off…and racing

The Bundaberg Region is one of

Hundreds of people from the Bundaberg

the largest production horticulture

Region went to the races in July for the

regions in Australia growing a diverse

staging of the 2013 Brisbane Produce

range of healthy fruits, vegetables,

Market Raptis Pax Bundaberg Cup.

nuts and herbs.

It was Bundaberg’s biggest social

The region takes in Bundaberg, Gympie

and racing event of the year with

and Gayndah. Combined, an estimated

Brisbane Markets and Bundaberg

annual farm gate value of more than

Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG)

$500 million injects over $1 billion into

representatives on hand to cheer on the

the local economy and plays an integral

horses, network and celebrate.

role in the nation’s food security. Its horticultural industry employs over 5,000 people.

The Brisbane Markets race day sponsorship was just one of the ways it supports the Bundaberg region, with the

Brisbane Markets has a Memorandum

bonds firmly tied through a Memorandum

of Understanding with Bundaberg

of Understanding with BFVG.

Fruit and Vegetable Growers, with the association being the central industry contact point for this thriving horticulture region.

For race lovers: Desiree Gill won her second race of the day by coming home on Harney ahead of Luke Dillon on Overboard during the feature race of the

The following articles take a look at the

day, the Bundaberg Gold Cup Handicap

news within the region for this quarter.

over 1600 metres.

Machinery field day success A little bit of rain doesn’t put a Bundaberg grower off from playing with new pieces of machinery when they are on display.

Growers from all over the region attended a workshop and demonstrations at the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFFQ) research facility in Bundaberg to see some of the new technology available, up close and personal.

ane

the 2013 Brisb The thunder of hooves during aberg Cup. Produce Market Raptis Pax Bund

There were talks on satellite imagery, a cost benefit analysis of implementing control traffic farming practices and benefits of adopting precision farming techniques.

The growers were treated to an array of in-field displays to see how the precision farming technologies worked.

BFVG said the workshop was timely with the region’s growing becoming more aware of the available technology.

BFVG Directors’ wives Tracey De Pra (left) and Narelle Chivers enjoy a spot of racing.

17

Showcasing Bundy’s proud flavours People were standing up to three

The Bundy Pride branded display

deep pressing into the Bundy Pride

provided a bountiful fresh produce

tent at the Brisbane South Bank’s

frontage and the opportunity to

Regional Flavours event in July.

entice them with colour, taste and

The hard working Bundaberg Fruit

recipe ideas to bring it all together.

and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) and Bundy Pride representatives were selling and offering tastes of locally grown figs, blueberries, herbs, sweet potatoes, bananas, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, capsicums and nuts

Just down the ‘eat street’, handling the long queues, were the team from Queensland Strawberries who were selling punnet after punnet of their finest berries.

to quell the frenzy.

More than 100 of Queensland’s

It’s the third time that BFVG has

best food and wine producers,

joined the thousands of people who

from 12 different growing regions,

have flocked to Regional Flavours to

turned out to showcase their wares,

sample what Queensland’s diverse

with an estimated 60,000 people in

growing regions have got to offer.

attendance over the two days.

DID YOU KNOW?

ent Bundaberg Chamber of Commerce presid nal Dion Taylor takes a break during Regio Flavours.

A snap shot of the record crowd pushing into the Queensland Strawberries marquee during Regional Flavours.

Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers Cooperative Limited (BFVG) represents over 400 members growing more than 30 different commodities in the greater Bundaberg region encompassing Gympie, Gayndah/Mundubbera and Agnes Waters.

Cloud computing no pie in the sky Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable

“We asked a lot of questions,

“Although we had researched cloud

Growers (BFVG) has gone live with

conducted a fair amount of research

computing for a quite a while the

cloud computing and is encouraging

over many months and are spending

experience during the floods made

other businesses to consider this

quite a bit of time getting ready for

us take the leap sooner rather than

new approach to business.

the transition,” Mr Hockings said.

later,” he said.

The recommendation comes after

“For us though, it was obvious cloud

Mr Hockings said cloud computing,

BFVG took part in the Bundaberg

computing would be an integral part

which is a storage and computing

Regional Council’s launch of their

of our overall strategy, especially

service, gave businesses access

Digital Ready Champion’s Program.

after losing some business capability

to documents and emails from

during the flood event in January.”

anywhere in the world, 24 hours a

BFVG executive officer Peter

day, seven days a week, and made

Hockings said it was obvious cloud

Mr Hockings said during the January

computing would be an integral

2013 flood he spent a week without

part of its overall strategy, especially

power and nothing more than his

“Long term would see some cost-

after losing some business capability

mobile phone and Facebook to

savings,” he said.

during the flood event in January.

conduct business.

data recovery an easier process.

industry Vegie growers forced to destroy their crops

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) chairman Carl Walker forced to destroy his crops.

A tractor heads to work in a fertile Childers paddock, in the Bundaberg region, after a longer growing season this year overlapped with the Bowen region.

Bundaberg and Bowen vegetable

“I cut back my plantings by 20% this

growers were forced to destroy large

year, but we’ve got probably about 50%

amount of vegetables, as well as

more production than we had last year

tomatoes and capsicums, at the end of

because it’s just grown so well,” he said.

winter because of bad prices.

Along with the strong growing

Despite this year’s excellent growing

conditions in the north, a longer than

conditions and increased productivity,

normal growing season in other parts of

a longer than normal growing season in

coastal Queensland has helped create

southern Queensland created a clash in

an oversupplied market.

the market.

Good weather around Bundaberg has

The oversupply of fresh produce from both Bundaberg and Bowen means prices for many farmers dipped below the cost of production.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) chairman Carl Walker said he had destroyed more crop than he harvested last year.

“There are other growers that will be mowing off more than they picked last year too,” he said.

meant growers extended their season to help cover losses following the January floods.

Meanwhile Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers, Peter Hockings executive officer Peter Hockings said the extended season in his region provided some relief for flood-affected farmers.

The season was three weeks longer than usual due to a lack of sunshine in February that slowed down vegetable growth.

Mr Hockings said the longer season

“It’s quite heartbreaking to see when

gave growers extra time to make money

you hear of people starving around the

and consumers more produce at lower

world and you see the waste that we’re

prices, but acknowledged lower returns

having now.”

were hurting industry.

Mr Walker says the decision comes

He said many southern growers have

despite excellent growing conditions

worked hard to extend their growing

and bumper crops for Bowen farmers.

and recoup losses.

19

Flooded farmers funding extension

Interstate banana ban posed

The cut-off date for farmers, businesses and not-for-profit

Bananas can no longer be brought into

organisations affected by flooding earlier this year to apply

Queensland under new rules to stop the spread

for natural disaster assistance has been extended to the end

of a disease that kills crops.

of November.

Queensland Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries

This extension applies to Category C and D assistance under

and Forestry John McVeigh announced the

the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.

legislative change in late August after the

The eligibility period was due to end on 30 August, but producers and small businesses needed more time to find suitable contractors and finalise their applications.

Applicants have until 29 November 2013 to lodge their

banana freckle disease was found on fruit in the Northern Territory.

Authorities fear it could spread through Queensland and destroy crops.

applications with the Queensland Rural Adjustment

However, Mr McVeigh said there was only a low

Authority (QRAA).

risk given there was no commercial banana trade

QRAA can be contacted on 1800 623 946 to discuss eligibility

betweenthe state and NT.

or visit www.qraa.qld.gov.au. For information on small

“This change would only affect the general public

business support visit www.business.qld.gov.au

or farmers travelling between the states,� he said.

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industry BGGA annual events exhibit local horticulture industry

BY SARAH SIMPSON, BOWEN GUMLU GROWERS ASSOCIATION (BGGA) Bowen Gumlu Growers Association

for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

(BGGA) held its annual Gala Dinner and

John McVeigh, Federal Member for

Industry Breakfast in July providing a

Dawson George Christensen and Member

great opportunity to showcase the local

for Burdekin Rosemary Menkens.

horticulture industry in the region.

Attendees were entertained by the

The Industry Breakfast and Farm Tour

comedic and magical genius of Phil

were attended by a range of industry

“trust me” Cass, who provided laughs and

partners, BGGA members and local

left the audience somewhat confused.

government.

A big thank you to Fabien Bachagherouni

It provided some insights into the local horticultural industry with a focus on the

from MAF RODA Colour Vision Systems, who graciously participated on stage.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority

Guests were also entertained by Ruby

(GBRMPA) Reef Guardian program.

Tuesday who provided music for guests

Currently a pilot program of the GBRMPA

to dance the night away.

Reef Guardian Farmer is occurring

These events were held later than

in the region with two local growers

usual in an effort to showcase the local

participating. The program is hoped

horticultural industry in full swing.

to provide recognition for the good environmental work undertaken by industry to protect the Great Barrier Reef.

This season has however, been a tough one for growers, with prices remaining low. The month of August has seen

This year’s farm tour was conducted on

the prices of tomatoes and capsicums

Jamie and Melita Jurgens, of Jurgens

improve which has been a relief to many.

Produce.

The opening up of the irradiation

During the tour Jamie Jurgens provided

pathway for capsicums and tomatoes to

insights into their sustainable farming

New Zealand has been a welcome sight

practices that have accumulated to

for many in Bowen and Gumlu.

achieve their Reef Guardian status.

Although many would have welcomed

BGGA’s annual Gala Dinner was attended

this earlier in the season, the regaining

by local growers, wholesalers, industry

of market access to New Zealand marks

partners as well as distinguished guests

a significant step in maintaining market

which included the Queensland Minister

access and the sustainability of industry.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Bowen and Gumlu horticulture region: • • • • • •

Has an industry worth over $400 million a year Is the largest winter growing region in Australia Employs around 3200 skilled and unskilled workers a year Has horticulture as it’s largest economic driver in the region Boasts vegetable production from April/May through to November Produces mangoes from November to December.

21

Jurgens Produce’s Jamie Jurgens talks with an industry farm tour participant during a tour of his Bowen farm.

A tractor goes to wo rk on tomato plants during the farm tour.

Bowen tour and dinner an industry opportunity Brismark General Manager Gail Woods and Brisbane Markets wholesalers threw off the winter cool to attend the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) gala dinner and industry farm tour and received a warm reception.

Brisbane Markets has a Memorandum of Understanding to work closely with BGGA and the annual event was a great opportunity for wholesalers and growers to get together.

A walk through Jurgens Produce shed facilities during the Industry Farm tour.

The following are photos from the industry networking opportunity:

About BGGA Bowen is the largest winter vegetable growing region in Australia sending fruit and vegetables to domestic markets and exporting to international markets.

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) is the first point of contact for growers and industry in the region.

The region has a well established and strong horticulture industry.

It is estimated that the region contributes more than $400 million to the $9 billion Australian horticulture sector, which is the fastest growing sector in the agriculture industry.

Bruce Waltisbuhl 0400 995 824

industry In d us try Bit es ..... .

Boosting horticulture’s business performance Boosting business performance was top of the agenda at the most recent Horticulture Industry Development Group (IDG) meeting held in Brisbane.

The Horticulture IDG is an industry group set up to oversee the delivery of the Queensland’s $500,000 Horticulture Workforce Plan.

The meeting was an important one to look at strengthening and diversifying markets while taking time out to consider shared market access issues, as identified by industry.

A key issue raised was the lengthy market access negotiations that producers who are keen to explore new markets find themselves in, often with limited results.

Another topic up for discussion was the recent seasonal market fluctuations which have significantly impacted growers.

It is thought developing diverse and dynamic markets in years to come will enhance business and move the industry forward.

Lisa our marketer of the year Former Fresh Source magazine contributor

US stonefruit through our off season

and renowned fresh produce marketer

Peaches and nectarines from the United

Lisa Cork was named the PMA-Produce

States have appeared in the Brisbane

Plus Marketer of the Year Award 2013.

Ms Cork was unveiled as the winner during the Fresh Connections conference in Sydney, in June, with her marketing work on the Delta Produce ‘Love Kumara’ rebranding project was said to be outstanding.

Her ‘Love Kumara’ project was highlighted by the award’s judges for its consumer-led approach, which used shopper data and insights to develop a new brand and product strategy.

Produce Market and on Australian shelves for the first time.

The fruit, which is counter seasonal to Australia, started to arrive in late July as new trade laws came into place.

Industry lobby group Summerfruit Australia is supportive of the imports.

Its CEO John Moore said he hoped this meant Australian fruit would soon gain access to the American market.

23

Avocado bruising explained Researchers may soon understand more about why avocados are often bruised when they come home from the grocery store.

A joint project between The University of Queensland and the Queensland Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry hopes to reduce consumer disappointment with bruised fruit, and benefit the industry with higher sales.

Consumers have reported that one in three avocados is a disappointment and that they would purchase more if they had confidence in the product.

UQ PhD student Muhammad Sohail Mazhar followed avocados through the supply

Organics a growth industry

chain from ripener, distribution centre, to retailer and discovered that most flesh

IBIS World found organics is one of

bruising occurred at the retail store.

Australia’s top five growth industries

“A bruise in an avocado fruit can continue to grow and intensify for up to

in 2013.

The Australian Organic Market

96 hours,’’ Mr Mazhar said.

“A cost-effective firmness-testing device - combined with educating store staff, shoppers and consumers - could well be the answer to giving us many more bruisefree avocados.’’

Report 2012, commissioned by Australian Organic and co funded by Horticulture Australia Ltd, confirms organics is worth $1.27 billion to

Horticulture Australia Limited is funding the research project using the Avocados

Australia and is predicted to grow by

Australia Limited levy and matched funds from the Federal Government.

15% each year.

AUSVEG appoints a new chairman

Fruit fly certification changes

New CEO for Australian Organic

AUSVEG has welcomed a new chairman

As of 1 July 2013, Queensland Fruit Fly

Australian Organic has appointed Paul

with the appointment of NSW potato

(QFF) host produce, consigned into

Stadhams to the position of CEO.

grower Geoff Moar to take over the

and within Victoria, no longer requires

national vegetable grower body Ausveg.

He replaces Queensland John Brent who held the position for a five-year term, but remains the Queensland board director.

certification and treatment, with the exception of consignments entering the Greater Sunraysia Pest Free Area .

Paul has a background in the agriculture and food processing sectors and was most recently a state administration and operations

QFF host produce can be consigned from

manager with national fresh produce

Victoria to non QFF sensitive markets

wholesaler.

Tasmanian David Addison is the new deputy

such as Queensland, NSW and the

chairman.

Northern Territory, as well as Brisbane

Mr Brent says when he took over the role

Produce Market and Sydney Markets,

he initially envisioned it would be in an

without certification and treatment.

interim capacity.

For the first time, this also includes

and appears on the majority of

Mr Moar is the longest-serving current

consignments to the Melbourne Markets.

certified organic products in Australia.

director on the Ausveg board, having been appointed in 2004.

Australian Organic owns the most recognised organic logo in the country, Australian Certified Organic, which is identified by the Bud symbol

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

business

25

New provisions to deal with workplace bullying

BY SAL TRUJILLO, BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER The Fair Work Amendment Act 2013

• A worker is bullied at work if

• Review the Draft Code of Practice

contains various changes to the Fair

while the worker is at work in a

“Preventing and Responding to

Work Act 2009. In particular, there are

constitutionally-covered business is

Workplace Bullying” produced by

new anti-bullying provisions which are

the subject of repeated unreasonable

Safe Work Australia

due to take effect from 1 January 2014.

behaviour that creates a risk to health

These anti-bullying amendments are part of the Federal Government’s response to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Education and Employment report titled Workplace bullying “We just want it to stop”.

This report highlights that workplace bullying has significant negative results to “individual’s health and wellbeing, it can also undercut the productivity of an entire organisation, which incurs financial costs to employers and the national economy”.

The report also highlights that workplace bullying costs the Australian economy between $6 billion and $36 billion annually.

The new anti-bullying provisions include the following: • A worker who reasonably believes that he or she has been bullied at work may apply directly to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) for an order to stop the bullying.

• The FWC must start to deal with such an application within 14 days of it being made.

and safety by an individual or group of individuals. This does not include reasonable management action carried out in a reasonable manner.

• The definition of a worker is very wide and has the same meaning as in the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, which includes employees, contractors, subcontractors, outworkers, apprentices, trainees, students gaining work experience and volunteers.

• The relevant work, health and safety regulator can still investigate and prosecute a bullying claim, even after it has been dealt with by the FWC.

• Review and update your Workplace Bullying policy • Ascertain that your policy has clearly defined grievance procedure • Define appropriate behaviour in your policy • Ensure all employee have a copy of the policy • Provide training to both employees and managers • Ensure appropriate systems are in place to prevent bullying in your workplace • Ensure managers lead by example • Act quickly by investigating and

It is therefore timely for employers to

managing bullying complaints

act. Here are a few tips to consider:

quickly.

• Ensure you are fully aware of the anti-bullying obligations

business Having a plan is crucial for long term survival

BY ANDREW MALINS – AFFINITY ACCOUNTING PLUS Whether your business is highly

Take a hard look at your industry sector

profitable, struggling or somewhere

and what changes are happening now

in between, having a plan or process

and in the future:

on how you are going to improve and innovate is crucial to its long term survival or the value you can sell or pass on to the next owners.

Right now, it is more important than ever

• How are you responding to the changes coming?

• How are we staying relevant to our current and future customers?

to change the way we operate not only to

• Do you have the right people in your

ensure immediate survival but long term

business for the changes coming?

viability. The rate of change in business is

• Do you have the right business, legal

accelerating and those businesses which

and financial structure for current and

do not anticipate and prepare for industry

future requirements?

change will not survive long term.

Why does that matter to you?

Because the profitability and value of

• What are the immediate priorities for change within your business?

• How do we implement change in a

your business will be affected and most

tight economic environment? How do

business owners rely on the value of

we ensure we are progressing to our

their business to retire or pass to the

long term goals?

next generation.

Employees may find themselves in a disappearing trade or industry or one that no longer exists in Australia.

• How do we ensure business and personal goals are being addressed?

While many of us in business are focused on day to day issues, long term success

We all need to prepare for the industry

comes from incremental improvements

changes or risk losing that which you

over a long period of time.

have worked hard to build.

The overall (macro) economic numbers do not tell the true story of what is happening in SMEs across Australia.

Years of difficult trading is beginning to impact not only the marginal businesses but also the ones which have been around for a long time. We have seen a number of businesses either close or under duress that have been around for 10 or more years.

Australian technology provides vital boost to home-grown fruit and vegies

27

If you’ve noticed a change for the

Trusted name

He harvests about 4,000 plants a week

better in the quality of your fruit and

Mr Dowling says DELTAwater solutions

and he used to pack 20 whole lettuces

was a trusted name among growers in

to a box. Now, with DELTA on the job,

the district.

he can only fit 15 in each box because

vegetables lately, chances are that Newcastle-based Australian water treatment company DELTAwater solutions is involved.

Fruit and vegetable growers across Australia are experiencing faster growth, bigger and healthier crops and improved yields after treating

Some have been successfully using

of the growth increase.

the water treatment technology, which

Conditioning water

addresses a range of water-quality

The market gardener, who installed

issues including mineral build up and

a grade-five DELTA treatment unit to

scale, for years.

condition water earmarked for his lettuce in late May this year, declares

their water with the 100% Australian

“I know people around here who

designed and manufactured

wouldn't grow another crop without

DELTAwater solutions technology.

having a DELTAwater solutions water

Size an issue

conditioner on; they've got a good

Bundaberg market gardener Andrew

reputation,” he said. “One fella had

“I now have 100% no intention of

Dowling has a hefty problem with the

his for more than 15 years and he still

growing anything here without using

size of his lettuces since he started

swears by it.

DELTA with my water,” Andrew says.

“Once you spend the initial money on

Background

it, that's it, there's no maintenance. It's

DELTAwater solutions was founded

there every day and it doesn't wear out.”

by Alex and Dianne Panov. It is a 100%

plants during the weekly harvest.

About the farm

Australian-owned company based in

“I can't get the lettuce into the sleeves

Mr Dowling grows six varieties of

now, they're just too big,” he laughed.

lettuce hydroponically under shade

People wanting more information

“Since I've had the DELTA unit on,

cloth. Most of it ends up as salad

about its water treatment technology

these are the best lettuces I've had in

mix destined for pubs, clubs and

and products can call 1800 283 600 or

10 years.”

restaurants in the local area.

visit www.deltawater.com.au

treating his water supply with the DELTA technology. But it's an issue the Queensland man's thrilled to face as he contemplates his healthy, huge

ADVERTORIAL

he won't grow another thing on his block unless it's watered with DELTAtreated supply.

Newcastle, NSW.

Bundaberg grower Andrew Dowling is growing healthier, larger lettuce.

business AustSafe Super receives its MySuper approval The industry super fund for rural and

achieve their retirement goals,”

regional Australia, AustSafe Super has

Mr Stevens said.

received its MySuper authorisation from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA).

From 1 January 2014, only those superannuation funds with an approved MySuper offering will be able to receive Superannuation Guarantee (SG)

“This approval means for our employers that its business as usual and they can continue paying their SG contributions to us with the complete confidence that we are able to help them meet their super obligations,” Mr Stevens said.

contributions for employees who have

AustSafe Super has a dedicated team of

not chosen a fund.

regional managers on hand in rural and

AustSafe Super Chief Executive Officer, Craig Stevens said MySuper is a welcome

regional areas to assist both members and employers.

development and will result in a simpler

“We appreciate that regulatory changes

set of product features and allow

can be confusing, so we’re committed

members to compare funds more easily.

to helping members and employers

“We’re pleased to offer members a

make sense of these changes and work

simple and cost effective option similar

with them every step of the way,”

to our current default offering to help

Mr Stevens said.

A web-based eye on the highway Growers throughout Queensland are

regularly updated and can be accessed

heavily reliant on road transport to get

via the Queensland Government traffic

their fresh produce to the Brisbane

and travel information website:

Markets and around the State.

http://highload.131940.qld.gov.au

There is an easy way of finding out if

This report details road closures and

the roads are clear, particularly after

conditions across the state.

weather incidents that flood or damage road surfaces.

The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads access report on the State Highways and Motorways is

29

retailing Small town style beats them every time Ipswich greengrocer, The Fresh Fruit Shak, has been named Brisbane Produce Market Retailer of the Month for July 2013.

The store is owned and operated by Ipswich local Stuart Chalk and has undergone a layout transformation with many customers commenting on how easy it now is to find the produce they need.

The team from the The Fresh Fruit Shak, Ipswich, winners of the July Brisbane Produce Market Retailer of the Month.

“It had been four years since I had touched the layout and with any business you have to step back and make sure you are updating your services as much as possible. It needed an overhaul and the response has been positive,” Mr Chalk said.

“I guess it didn’t hurt our scores either, as we scored 100% in the store presentation category. In fact we scored 100% overall and we could not be happier.”

The small greengrocer was competing with many larger city based stores and the top scores across all categories secured the win for the proud Chalk family.

The Fresh Fruit Shak is located at Shop B, 11 Pine Mountain Road, Ipswich.

About the Retailer of the Month award The Brisbane Produce Market Retailer Program is designed to reward and encourage excellence in fresh produce retailing.

Participating fruit and vegetable retailers are mystery shopped twice throughout the year in a bid to determine those businesses that excel in areas such as customer service, quality produce, product knowledge, shop appearance and merchandising.

The Healthy Lunchboxes recipe book is available from independent greengrocers taking part in Brisbane

Winners of the Brisbane Produce Market Retailer of the Month

Produce Market’s Retailer Program.

receive $2,000 prize money to use for store promotions.

To find your closest greengrocer, check

More than 100 independent fruit and vegetable retailers

out the Healthy Lunchboxes book store

throughout South East Queensland participate in the Brisbane

directory at www.brisbanemarkets.com.au.

Produce Market’s retailer program.

for kids Footballer helps launch Kids Go Fresh & Healthy program Holland Park State School welcomed

“If you’re eating healthy, not only

footy star and Brisbane Produce

will you have more energy, but it

Market’s Healthy Eating Ambassador,

will also help you in the classroom,

Ben Hannant, to their school in August

you’ll be faster on the running field,

to mark the launch of the new look Kids

and you’ll grow strong and healthy”,

Go Fresh & Healthy program.

Mr Hannant said.

Brisbane Produce Market created the

School Principal Tony Gribbon

Kids Go Fresh & Healthy program to

and teacher Gail Sutcliffe-Rausch

encourage primary school children to

encouraged healthy eating at the school

make healthy eating choices.

with morning fruit breaks, healthy

The program takes a whole-ofcommunity focus by getting schools,

options at the tuckshop and plenty of exercise.

parents, tuckshops and the local

Local greengrocer Andrew Nicolaou, of

greengrocer involved.

JJ’s Fruit Market, has forged a supportive

It includes free healthy eating presentations for primary schools, and resources and promotions for teachers and school canteens.

Ben Hannant, himself a father of five, explained to a class of 28 Year 4 students how important eating plenty of fruit and vegetables was to staying fit and healthy both on and off the field.

Footballer and Brisbane Markets Healthy Eating Ambassador Ben Hannant launches the Kids Go Fresh & Healthy program with the aid of Holland Park State School students.

relationship with the school, delivering fresh produce to the tuckshop and providing a 50% subsidy.

School tuckshop convenor, Melisa Wilson, was excited to receive a copy of Brisbane Produce Market’s Healthy Lunchboxes book, saying she was keen to try some of the delicious recipes on the new menu.

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COMMERCIAL KITCHEN, TRAINING ROOM & MEETING ROOM FOR HIRE

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Fresh Centre, Brisbane Markets, 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea www.brisbanemarkets.com.au admin@brisbanemarkets.com.au (P)07 3915 4200 (F)07 3915 4291

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