Winter 2019 Issue
67
Growers
under pressure
p6
Fresh perspectives
from the Market p20
Increased scrutiny for air export
p24
The magazine of
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CEO comment The weather may have cooled down, however Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) is heating up with plenty of events on the go and new infrastructure projects underway.
Growers under strain The recent changes to casual wages under the Horticulture Award sent growers scrambling to implement the new working conditions, which are already becoming a significant burden as picking seasons arrive (see pages 6 to 7 for more information). It is disheartening to read that groundwater entitlements have been reduced for our Memorandum of Understanding partners in the Bundaberg area, along with continued drought conditions in the Granite Belt and the cancelling of the National Vegetable Industry field days in the Lockyer Valley (see pages 8 and 32 for more details). We hope the growers in these areas receive a good rainfall soon.
Strengthening industry connections At the end of June, the horticulture industry gathered in Melbourne to attend the annual Hort Connections conference and trade show. AUSVEG and PMA A-NZ are to be praised for hosting such a successful and well-attended event. A particular crowd favourite was endurance athlete and inspirational speaker Samantha Gash, who spoke about living outside of your comfort zone. To read more about the event, see page 11.
Changing the face of the Market There have been some changes within the Brisbane Produce Market (BPM) tenants, including the exit of stalwarts Gary O’Shea and Brad Siemon from Consolidated Fruit. We wish Gary and Brad all the best in their new endeavours and hope to see them again in the future. You can read more about their BPM journey on page 12 of this edition. Replacing Consolidated Fruit is new wholesaler Stanton & Son. While the business is new, the Stanton name has long been associated with produce markets in Brisbane. In this new enterprise, Marc Stanton is joined by his son Jett, marking five generations and over 100 years of wholesaling in Queensland. To find out more about the history of the Stanton family, see page 13. To give you a greater understanding of the BPM, the role of Brismark, and our fruit and vegetable wholesalers, we have
included a special feature and wholesaler directory on pages 18 and 19. You can also read more about the Central Market system from the perspective of wholesaler Mark Moore, buyer Bart Grierson and logistics operator Glen Lindsay on pages 20 to 22.
Exciting developments When one big development ends, another begins or so seems to be the case at Brisbane Markets. The Building C1 Warehouse is now complete and in the hands of new tenant, Montague. Not a company to remain idle, planning has commenced on a new warehouse at South Gate West, which will house J.H. Leavy & Co. You can read about both developments on pages 16 and 17. We are also pleased to read about the investment our tenants have made to their businesses to allow them to comply with new export security legislation for air freight. The Enhanced Air Cargo Examination process means that all air cargo is now inspected at the lowest level of consolidation. The new measures brings all air cargo in line with existing rules relating to cargo flying to the USA. To read more about the legislation and how our tenants have adjusted to the changes, please see page 24.
Fire & Ice Food Festival The Brisbane Night Market is proving very popular with families in our local area, and its popularity is set to continue over winter with a Fire & Ice Food Festival to be held throughout July and August. Filled with winter activities for the whole family, the event will feature ‘fire and ice’ themed food, beverages and entertainment. The Brisbane Night Market is held every Friday from 4pm until 10pm in the Brisbane Produce Market.
Andrew Young, Chief Executive Officer, BML and Brismark
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE
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Contents 6 Fresh Updates 6
Rushed implementation adds unnecessary pressure for growers 7 Protecting migrant workers 8 Lockyer Valley growers gain momentum 8 Drought a hot topic on the Granite Belt 8 Horticulture leads the way in sustainability 9 Late start for strawberry season 10 New face to head Australian agriculture 10 Waste levy hits hard 10 Domestic demand for organic up $300M
11 Feature: Hort Connections 11 Industry converges on Melbourne for horticulture conference 11 National Awards for Excellence winners
12 Fresh Markets 12 End of an era for Consolidated Fruit 13 Paving the way for the next generation 13 New season garlic hits the markets 14 Winter trends at the Flower Market 14 Search is on for the best forklift operator 14 Custard apple season in full swing
16 Fresh Developments 16 J. H. Leavy & Co. warehouse set to go-ahead at South Gate West 16 Third stage of solar project comes to an end 17 $17.5m C1 project reaches completion
18 Feature: Meet our Wholesalers 18 Meet the Brisbane Produce Market wholesalers 18 Who is Brismark? 18 Ten tips for working with a wholesaler
20 Fresh Perspectives 20 Logistics, innovation, relationships: the foundation of the Central Market
24 Fresh Developments 24 Market community invests in export security 25 New chief for export import association 25 Australia enters free trade deal with Indonesia 25 Vegetable exports increase in value
26 Fresh Retailing 26 Veg in this winter at Your Local Fruit Shop 26 Plastic bags are so last season 28 Living your best fresh lifestyle 28 Eating vegetables for the kids, and your health 29 Funding for vegetable education 30 Reviewing the success of A Better Choice 30 Winners are grinners
31 Fresh Industry 31 Bowen Gumlu attracts dignitaries to dinner 32 Recording industry impact of new horticulture award 32 Food safety throughout the supply chain 33 AustSafe merges with Sunsuper 33 New advocate for Queensland horticulture
34 Fresh Calendar
BRISBANE MARKETS LIMITED | ABN 39 064 983 017 PO Box 80, Brisbane Markets®, Rocklea, Queensland 4106 E communications@brisbanemarkets.com.au W www.brisbanemarkets.com.au ADVERTISING AND EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES Editor: Seren Trump, Brisbane Markets Limited P 07 3915 4200 E communications@brisbanemarkets.com.au DESIGN Effigy Creative P 07 3040 4343 | PRINT Buckner Printing P 07 3865 9677
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Fresh Source is the magazine of Brisbane Markets Limited. New editions of the magazine are printed three times a year. Advertising and editorial inquiries are welcome and media outlets are invited to use material without acknowledgement. Fresh Source is printed on Australian made recycled stock.
A happy life starts with good health
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Rushed implementation adds unnecessary pressure for growers Growers were taken by surprise in April, when they were given just two weeks to implement new casual employee arrangements under the Horticulture Award. Following extensive negotiations between industry and unions, the Fair Work Commission released the determination at the end of March with an implementation deadline of 15 April. Industry requests for a minimum six month implementation period were turned down, with the Fair Work Ombudsman saying industry had been on notice of the changes since mid2017. While the timing was a shock, those involved in political advocacy for horticulture knew change was on the way. Carl Walker, president of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association, said that he felt the new changes were poorly negotiated and Judy Shepherd from Gayndah Packers agrees. “At Gayndah Packers, we knew how badly these changes were going to affect us so we presented a submission to the Commission. But I felt, as an industry, we weren’t advocating strongly enough for what the impact was going to be. The Commission didn’t seem to understand that employers are unable to absorb these extra costs and that in the end it is the workers who are worse off,” Ms Shepherd said. The short implementation period has resulted in considerable stress for payroll staff and additional administration costs to ensure the changes were implemented properly, and the impact of this is greater for smaller family businesses. The new casual award limits ordinary hours to 12 hours per day and 304 per eight-week period, with any work occurring outside of ordinary working hours incurring the standard time-and-a-half overtime wages. Mr Walker said horticulture was not an industry that could be turned off when 38 hours were up: when produce is ready to be picked, it needs to be picked.
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Phantom Produce’s Carl Walker.
“You cannot compare horticulture to industries like manufacturing. It’s not like making shoes, we deal in perishable goods. You can’t leave it on Friday and expect the product to be exactly the same on Monday morning,” Mr Walker said. Both Mr Walker and Ms Shepherd agreed that the changes have effectively gotten rid of any overtime, which is a challenge for both local and seasonal workforces who rely on working long hours to make money during the picking season. “It’s going to make it harder on our employees who want to make a lot of money in the shortest amount of time, so they can spend the rest of the year having quality time travelling or with their families. You are penalising the workers more than you are the growers. We can just say we will run two crews on 38 hours a week,” Mr Walker said. Ms Shepherd agreed, saying it was the local labour force who relied heavily on horticulture for well-paid seasonal work that would face the brunt of the changes.
“The only people that this is really going to affect is the employees, because the employers cannot afford to absorb the extra costs and they won’t. At Gayndah Packers, we have had to put on more itinerant workers, manage the hours our staff work, invest in new graders to automate the process and minimise the staff required. No one is going to win from this decision, and it is the local workers who are going to be impacted the most,” Ms Shepherd said. The new Horticulture Award for casual workers also includes a 15% night loading for ordinary hours worked between 8.31pm and 4.59am, on top of the existing 25% casual loading. Night loading does not apply to overtime hours. This is particularly burdensome for growers who pick at night due to daily temperatures, for the benefit of both produce and employees. Ms Shepherd said that Gayndah was in an enviable position with its ability to attract backpackers, but that a focus on itinerant workers would impact small rural communities. “Citrus is a crop that backpackers love to pick and the season is long enough that they can often do their complete 88 days in one place. We have a lot of backpackers come here and we never have a shortage of workers. But we have taken away the ability for local people in small rural communities to get good seasonal work and the impact this will have on communities hasn’t been considered at all,” Ms Shepherd said. For growers in isolated areas where extra workers are scarce, when it comes to picking season they will have to pay overtime rates to keep up with demand. Accordingly, many will have to consider the potential return on investment from their produce to decide whether to pay the overtime and pass the costs on to the consumer, or leave produce in the fields to rot.
Gayndah Packers’ Judy Shepherd.
“We’re struggling now to compete on a global market because our costs are so high, especially on labour. This is going to push that cost up even higher. We have a deal that is no good for the employee, no good for the employer, no good for the economy and no good for us trying to break into the global market,” Mr Walker said.
Protecting migrant workers The Government has handed down its response to the report from the Migrant Workers Taskforce, accepting all 22 recommendations. Recommendations included strengthening legislation to provide better protections for workers, improving the availability and accessibility of information about workplace rights, and ensuring the Fair Work Ombudsmun is adequately resourced. Additionally, the Government has committed to finalising a model for a National Labour Hire Registration Scheme with a view to reducing worker exploitation and driving behavioural change among labour hire operators in high-risk sectors. The Government has asked growers to register their labour needs with the National Harvest Labour Information Service (also known as Harvest Trail) to provide data on where workers are needed most. To register with the National Harvest Labour Information Service, please visit: https://jobsearch.gov.au/harvest. To read the recommendation made by the Migrant Workers Taskforce, and the Government’s response, visit: https://www.employment.gov.au/migrant-workers-taskforce.
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE
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Updates
Lockyer Valley growers gain momentum
Drought a hot topic on the Granite Belt
The Lockyer Valley region is now in full swing with fruit and vegetables across most categories in supply.
The Granite Belt Growers Association (GBGA) has met with Stephen Day from the Joint Agency Drought Taskforce, with the region continuing to experience a severe lack of rainfall casting uncertainty over preparations for the 2019/20 growing season.
While the ongoing drought is always in the back of people’s minds, according to Lockyer Valley Growers (LVG) President, Michael Sippel, local growers have continued to go about their business, hoping for a break in the weather. “The month of March was a blessing, as we received over 100mm of rain, adding much needed soil moisture to the profile. While it wasn’t enough to get our creek system in flow, replenishing our underground aquifer reserves, it has given the region the momentum to continue planting our leafy and root vegetable crops through the winter period,” Mr Sippel said. Persistent dry conditions over summer and autumn forced LVG to cancel this year’s National Vegetable Industry field days, in what Mr Sippel described as a blow for the local economy and industry members. “At the last event in 2016, many of the wholesalers from the Brisbane Markets® took the opportunity to visit the region and view the latest in fruit and vegetable varieties with their local growers,” Mr Sippel said. “The beginning of many important fruit and vegetable products were launched at field days such as this. We are committed to hosting the event again once the water returns.” In recent years, LVG has seen a boost in young growers entering the horticulture industry. To support their development, LVG has provided these young growers with study tours, taking them to visit Brisbane Markets®, Lindsay Fresh Logistics and the Stanthorpe growing region. “The purpose of the tours has always been to gather likeminded individuals and give them an opportunity to visit operations away from the family farm. We realise that these young individuals are the future of our food production and it has been a very rewarding experience to assist with their development,” Mr Sippel said.
According to the President of the GBGA, Angus Ferrier, the group has continued to advocate for its members and the wider horticultural community since their formation late last year. At the meeting with the Coordinator-General for Drought, Major General Day, the GBGA presented a range of issues and suggested improvements for their region. “We advocated for continued support for the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund, which is the Federal funding stream for the proposed Granite Belt Irrigation Project, known as Emu Swamp Dam,” Mr Ferrier said. “We also pushed for project funding for evaporation control on irrigation dams and to make horticulture eligible for the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme which contributes funds towards the Queensland Governments Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate, and Dam Desilting Rebate.” The group also used their meeting to advocate for ongoing funding for rural financial counselling, rural mental health and concessional loan schemes like those available from the Regional Investment Corporation and Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority.
Horticulture leads the way in sustainability Australian horticulture has the highest water efficiency of any agricultural industries, according to a review of the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data by Hort Innovations.
Ray Arcidiacono from Archies Produce showcasing his capsicums to the Lockyer Valley young growers during their tour of Stanthorpe.
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Horticulture returns $6,200 of value per megalitre used in Gross Value of Production (GVP) terms and generated the highest GVP per hectare of production land used at $31,486, with the second highest (viticulture) trailing at $7,720. It also has the lowest total greenhouse gas emissions and lowest greenhouse gas emissions per $ of GVP at 0.03 tonnes of CO2-e. Horticulture is now the second most valuable agricultural sector at $10.2 billion per annum.
Late start for strawberry season While weather conditions early in the season compromised the quality of strawberry runners, President of the Queensland Strawberry Growers’ Association, grower Luigi Coco, is optimistic about the availability and quality of the fresh strawberries to come this season. “After a difficult start with drought-affected strawberry nursery plants, the current warm sunny days are helping the young plants to get established and start to produce their wonderful balls of winter sunshine,” Mr Coco said.
“We are really looking forward to more strawberry abundance over winter. Strawberries will be great eating from now on, so customers should talk to their local fruit shop to see when the best are coming through from the market,” Mr Dawalabi said. Your Local Fruit Shop retailers are sourcing the very best on the market floor regularly, using their knowledge of the growers and wholesalers to source the best quality fruit for their stores. To find the nearest Your Local Fruit Shop, visit www.yourlocalfruitshop.com.au.
“The late start to the season has meant that strawberries were slightly scarce for a few weeks, but as our growers start to pick their first harvests I urge Queenslanders to get out and buy strawberries now as some of the freshest, juiciest berries can be had in July.” According to Brisbane Produce Market wholesaler, Fraser Lind from Lind & Sons, strawberries are loving the recent cooler conditions as the fruit starts to bear. “We are now seeing some of the best of the season so far coming though the markets, as these cool mornings are giving them the extra boost they need, at the right time. Through to the end of July and into August, we should be seeing excellent quality and an increase in volume,” Mr Lind said. Salim Dawalabi, a Your Local Fruit Shop retailer from Crispy Carrot, acknowledged that it’s always difficult early in the strawberry season when volume is low, and retailers need to pick their offerings well to ensure they delight customers in price and flavour.
Strawberries picked fresh on farm. PHOTO: Fran Flynn.
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE
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Updates
New face to head Australian agriculture The recent re-election of the Coalition government has resulted in a cabinet reshuffle, including a new Minister for Agriculture. Deputy Leader of the Federal Parliamentary Nationals, Victorian Senator Bridget McKenzie, has now taken on the Agriculture portfolio. Senator McKenzie has pledged to increase agriculture from a $30 billion to a $100 billion industry by 2030 and spent her first month in office on a ‘listening tour’ around Australia to get to know her new portfolio and the people she is to represent. Simon Birmingham is continuing as Minister for Trade Tourism and Investment. Former Minister for Agriculture, David Littleproud, will still be involved in the industry within his new position as Minister for Water Resources, Drought, Rural Finance, Natural Disaster and Emergency Management.
Waste levy hits hard The Queensland Government introduced a new waste levy on 1 July, aimed at reducing waste going to landfill, discouraging the transport of waste from interstate and generating a recycling economy. The levy will apply to 39 of the 77 local government areas in Queensland, covering 90% of the state’s population. All waste going to landfill will incur the relevant levy rate unless the waste is both generated and disposed of in the non-levy zone. There are exemptions for some specific types of waste, such as waste that results from a declared disaster. The levy will not be applied to domestic waste, with councils and households with commercial bulk-waste arrangements receiving funding to offset the costs of the waste levy. All general waste going to landfill will incur a $75 per tonne charge, with regulated waste receiving charges of up to $155 per tonne. This amount is set to rise yearly, and may incur an additional Governmental administration fee. Increases are locked in for the next four years at $5 per year. The levy is set to increase costs for growers, wholesalers and tenants in the levy areas. For BML tenants, waste costs are expected to increase by 30 to 50%, regardless of the waste supply contractor used. BML management and preferred waste contractor Suez are encouraging Brisbane Markets® tenants to minimise the costs incurred from the levy by decreasing the amount of recyclable and produce waste heading to landfill. Tenants are being encouraged to use recycling bins, as well as take advantage of produce waste recycling, and to talk to their waste contractor to find out how the levy will affect their businesses. To see the levy zones visit: https://bit.ly/2KgqJrU. For further information on all aspects of the levy, please visit: https://bit.ly/2CVfAYN.
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The new Federal Minister for Agriculture, Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie, at the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association Gala Dinner.
Domestic demand for organic up $300M Australian demand for certified organic products is skyrocketing, according to research released by Australian Organic, the organic industry’s leading body. In the last 12 months, domestic sales of organic products generated $1,677 million – up $300 million from the year before. The total Australian organic industry is now worth $2.6 billion and growing year on year. The Australian Organic Market Report 2019, which contains consumer insights from 1,025 Australians who were the primary food shopper in their household, found that 65% of Australian households are now buying some sort of organic product or produce yearly – an annual rise of 5%. Nearly half of current organic purchasers say that they have increased the allocation of their household food spending on organics over the past year. Increased awareness regarding chemicals and the environment were identified as major purchase drivers, with consumers saying when it comes to organic food the perceived main benefits upon buying are that they are chemical-free (80%) and environmentally friendly (71% – up from 65% since 2016). Farmer and Owner of Sherwood Rd Organic Meats, Adrian Tiller, said that he was very encouraged by customer growth, both on the farm and in the retail sector. “More and more people are becoming interested in sourcing ethically produced, Certified Organic produce. Our customers come from all ages groups and all walks of life, bound by their recognition of the importance to live healthily and sustainably,” Mr Tiller said. “We benefit from our position in the Brisbane Markets® Commercial Centre, which is becoming a one-stop hub for the organic community.”
Feature
Hort Connections Industry converges on Melbourne for horticulture conference
National Awards for Excellence winners
Around 3,500 delegates visited the annual Hort Connections conference and trade show, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 24 to 26 June. Hosted by AUSVEG and PMA A-NZ, the conference brought together growers, wholesalers, researchers, marketers and many others connected with the fresh produce and ornamental horticulture industry. Delegates took part in tours to the Melbourne Markets and local farms, listened to inspirational speakers and attended industry meetings. The popular trade show was opened by Victorian Minister for Agriculture, Jaclyn Symes.
Syngenta Grower of the Year
Jason Shields, Vic
Corteva Agriscience Young Grower of the Year
Daniel Hoffmann, SA
AUSVEG Lifetime Achievement Award
Ian Muir, Vic
E. E. Muir & Sons Community Stewardship Award
Foodbank Australia
Innovation Partner
Mark Pye, SA
Bayer Researcher of the Year
Dr Cherie Gambley, Qld
Boomaroo Nurseries Women in Horticulture Award
Carmel Ingram, Vic
Butler Market Gardens Environmental Award
Michael Evans, Vic
Visy Industry Impact Award
Darren and Mark Schreurs, Vic
Exporter of the Year
Harvest Moon, Tas
“It is great to see challenges such as adjusting to the changing climate and consumer sentiment are being addressed in sessions here over the next couple of days to help share knowledge and generate new ideas,” Ms Symes said. On the final night of the conference, the Hort Connections 2019 National Awards for Excellence Gala Dinner was attended by over 1,400 delegates and, according to AUSVEG CEO, James Whiteside, provided a chance to celebrate the outstanding achievements of leading growers and industry members.
Staff from Australia’s Central Markets joined forces to host the Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) stand at the FMA Trade Show.
“In our effort to grow the value of Australian agriculture to $100 billion by 2030, the horticulture industry will be vital to help realise this ambitious goal. It is through the innovation and success of our industry leaders that we will be able to help boost the profile and value of the Australian horticulture industry,” Mr Whiteside said. “Everyone who was nominated for an award this year has demonstrated their passion and commitment to the industry and has made a valuable contribution to its ongoing growth and success.”
State of the Industry panel discussion lead by host Darren Keating (PMA A-NZ) and featuring Angeline Achariya (Food Innovation Centre, Monash University), Ros Harvey (The Yield) and David Marguleas (Sun World Innovations).
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 11
End of an era for Consolidated Fruit After 27 years in business, Consolidated Fruit’s Gary O’Shea and Brad Siemon decided to call it a day in May 2019.
built and solidified over time. Built, according to Mr Siemon and Mr O’Shea, on a foundation of heated banter.
minute of it. For a hard mob, they’re all very generous people, they have big hearts,” Mr O’Shea said.
Between the two of them, they have spent a combined 75 years at the Brisbane Produce Market, having run a straightforward operation, with no computers and a single employee: a forklift operator.
“We always have a laugh, that’s what’s kept us young,” Mr Siemon said. “Having a go at each other and still being mates the next day: that’s how it is out here. You can’t take anything to heart.”
“We would like to thank all the people from BML and Brismark, for 25 years of support. They have all been fantastic. Also, the girl with the coffee cart, she is amazing.”
“The people haven’t changed, that’s the best thing. People still come here and give you a serve. We’ve loved every
The Consolidated Fruit tenancy is now in the hands of Stanton & Son.
“We’ve had no secretaries, we are still running our business with pen and paper. People ask how we do it and I say quite easily! Our little system is confusing to look at but it is simple for us,” Mr Siemon said. Their association with each other, and Brisbane Markets, started when they were teenagers. Mr Siemon’s parents ran the Markets Café for many years, and when he left school his father told him not to come home until he found a job at the Produce Market. He managed to secure one at J.R. Livingstone & Co. and ten years later helped Mr O’Shea find a job at R.W. Pascoe. The pair have known each other since they were 12 years old, travelled overseas together and have formed a number of business partnerships over the years. But Consolidated Fruit was the longest running. The secret to maintaining a friendship and a business partnership, according to Mr Siemon, is the ability to get over fights and not take them to heart. “Brad and I have had a great partnership here and we are very happy that it has lasted this long,” Mr O’Shea said. The pair said they would miss the characters in the Brisbane Produce Market, and the relationships they have
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An enduring friendship: Gary O’Shea and Brad Siemon are shutting shop at Consolidated Fruit.
Paving the way for the next generation The recent opening of Stanton & Son at the Brisbane Produce Market by Marc Stanton and his son Jett marks five generations of wholesalers for the family. Originally pioneer fruit growers in the Huon district of Tasmania, the Stanton brothers moved to Brisbane in the early 1900s to sell fruit received from Tasmanian growers. By 1932, Stanton Bros. was firmly established at the Brisbane Municipal Market in Roma Street, selling fruit from Stanthorpe, Bowen, Leeton and Tasmania. Marc’s great-grandfather opened Harry Stanton and Sons in the Brisbane Fruit and Produce Exchange in Turbot Street, and was joined by his son Aubrey Stanton, who in turn was joined by his son Graham (Marc’s father) in 1952. Graham Stanton made the move to Rocklea when the new Brisbane Market opened and, in the early 70s, left wholesaling and opened a number of fruit shops. “When I was old enough, my father asked me what I’d like to do, and I said I would like to go back into wholesale so
we opened G. Stanton & Son,” Marc said. Looking for a break from the rigours of running his own business, Marc sold his tenancy to Marland Mushrooms about eight years ago, but continued working at the Market for La Manna Premier Group. “I just wanted to be able to sell for a while and relax without the pressures of owning a business,” Marc said. Following in the family footsteps, Marc’s son Jett joined the Market community and once he started to pick it up Marc decided it was time to begin their own business again.
In the beginning: Stanton Bros at the Roma Street Markets in the early 1900s.
“I think a major problem in our industry is that we are not bringing enough young people through and showing them the ropes,” Marc said. “Before I retire, I want to make sure Jett is up to the task of being able to run a successful business and looking after the growers that have looked after us, because without growers there is no Market. “The industry has been good for our family so I would like it to be good for Jett too.”
Five generations later: On the first day of trading as Stanton & Son, Marc (centre) and Jett (left) were joined by Graham Stanton (right) to mark over 100 years of wholesaling in Brisbane.
New season garlic hits the markets The 2019 Australian garlic season is looking positive, with new Queensland and northern NSW growers expanding their production areas to supply new-season garlic to the eastern markets. Harvesting is expected as early as late August in northern Queensland and will continue through September for the remainder of southern Queensland and northern NSW. The market may see both the Glen Large and the Southern Glen cultivars available at the same time. The Southern Glen cultivar has a more complex, spicy flavour than the Glen Large, and is found highly desirable by discriminating customers, however is slightly smaller and lower yielding.
to include the later harvesting and longer storing cultivars with desirable culinary characteristics. The Australian Garlic Industry Association encourages all garlic growers to become members to take advantage of existing and planned industry and grower benefits. One of the newly delivered initiatives provides chemical compliance through access to AVPMA-approved permits for herbicides, fungicides and pesticides. For more information, please visit: https://www.garlicaustralia.asn.au/.
The slightly cooler, elevated regions of Queensland and northern NSW may produce two other subtropical cultivars – Italian Red and Italian Pink, which have stronger flavours than the sweeter Glen Large and Southern Glen. These Italian cultivars are harvested later and will be seen three and five weeks later in the wholesale markets. Expect to see the market dominated by the subtropical garlics until the Turban garlic group harvest around late October in northern NSW and up to mid-December as far south as Tasmania. The Australian Garlic Industry Association is working with members and industry to diversify the types of garlics grown
The subtropical Glen Large garlic cultivar.
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 13
Markets
Winter trends at the Flower Market After increased demand over the Mother’s Day period, the Brisbane Flower Market is expecting trade to continue to be strong over the winter months. “Cooler weather always boosts flower sales, as people spend more time inside and want to bring nature inside and brighten up with flowers,” Andrew Sanger from Lynch Market Flowers said. It also helps that cut flowers last a lot longer over winter in Queensland, and can live for up to two weeks if looked after correctly. Bulbs are plentiful at the moment including members of the Narcissus family (such as jonquils, erlicheer, and daffodils) along with iris, hyacinth, tulips and ranunculus. “In winter we start to see the cymbidium orchids, which are beautiful as cut flowers and as plants, and they last a long time,” a spokesperson for Flowerlovers said. If you are looking for a scented flower, look for stock, daphne, freesia, hyacinth and jonquils. Dahlias, peonies, and hydrangeas are also all in season.
Custard apple season in full swing The 2019 Australian custard apple season started slightly later than normal kicking off in North Queensland in February. Growing regions of Central Queensland, Wide Bay and the Sunshine Coast followed soon after with Northern NSW fruit now hitting the markets. The season is set to continue for a few more months. Custard apples have a pale green skin and should be firm to the touch. They soften quickly and are fragile, so care should be taken during transportation custard apples. Due to their unique skin, custard apples are susceptible to rub marks. There are a number of varieties of custard apples, however, the two main varieties are Pinks Mammoth and African Pride. Both are sweet, juicy and full of flavour. For more information about custard apples and recipe ideas, visit www.custardapple.com.au.
“We’re seeing that amaranthus and phalaenopsis orchids are very much in fashion at the moment. Tulips are growing in popularity again, and we’ll see a lot of sweet pea over winter,” Mandeep Nijjar from Redlands Fresh Flowers said. In terms of colours for weddings and events over winter, muted pallets and berry tones are popular with plenty of evergreen, burnt orange, apricot, burgundy, olive and grey gum green in the mix. “Burgundy and blush together is still very much on-trend, and there are lots of natives to be seen in bridal bouquets over the winter months. Classic whites and pastels are always popular for weddings, and over July and August we will start to see some grey added for a wintery feel,” Marion Mirciov from Brisbane Market Flowers said. For independent fruit and vegetable retailers, fresh flowers can be a great way to entice customers into your store over the colder months. “There are lots of flowers this time of year that smell and look great, are cost-effective, and will encourage customers, such as daffodils, jonquils, erlicheer and tulips,” Mr Sanger said.
Search is on for the best forklift operator
Enjoy fresh or simple: Custard apples are an excellent source of Vitamin C. Pictured is the African Pride variety.
Brisbane Produce Market’s annual Forklift Operator of the Year competition is heating up and this year is tipped to be the biggest ever. Operators will be lining up to win their share of the $5,000 prize money and take the title from Sutton Fresh Direct’s Soolefai Fale, who won the event in 2018. Registrations closed on 15 July, with the observation period running from 22 July to 16 August. The top 10 finalists will battle head to head for the title of Forklift Operator of the Year in the grand final on 28 August. For more information, please visit brisbanemarkets.com.au/event/forklift-operator-year.
14 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
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J. H. Leavy & Co. warehouse set to go-ahead at South Gate West A further benchmark-setting, purpose-built 5,800m² refrigerated warehouse is set to be constructed at Brisbane Markets®. The warehouse is to be positioned on the corner of Sherwood Road and Martin Taylor Drive, on land currently used for car parking at South Gate West, where the Saturday Fresh and Sunday Discovery weekend retail markets are held. The facility is likely to take up to a year to build, and will include extensive cold room, ripening and methyl bromide rooms, storage capabilities and an Australian Quarantine Inspection Serviceapproved fumigation facility featuring recaptured technology.
He said it was imperative that the business add greater value to its growers’ and customers’ businesses through offering reliability of product and service. “The new warehouse will play a significant role in enabling innovation, expansion and improving our service offerings. This development is an exciting step towards greater opportunities for us, our growers and our clients,” Mr Darling said.
Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Young, said J.H. Leavy & Co.’s decision to set a benchmark with the construction of the planned warehouse facility was closely aligned with his organisation’s strategic focus. “Brisbane Markets® is fast becoming noted on the international stage for its state-of-the art warehousing and distribution facilities. It is certainly another feather in our cap to be able to attract developments of this calibre,” Mr Young said. “Such recognition is the product of the BML Board’s commitment to stakeholder engagement and a concentrated site maintenance and development strategy since the horticulture industry took ownership of the site in 2002,” he said. J.H. Leavy & Co. General Manager, Ben Bartlett, said every cold chain and technological consideration had been put into the design phase with the aim of delivering state-of-the-art facilities supported by the latest technology. “The produce industry globally is changing and with that comes the need for larger facilities that are capable of vertically integrating more of the produce supply chain and have the ability to meet and anticipate our clients’ needs ongoing,” Mr Bartlett said. “Expanding in Queensland is important to us because of our business’ long history here. We are in Australia’s largest fresh produce production region and have a fantastic platform from which to continue our growth,” he said. The Darling Group acquired J.H. Leavy & Co. in 2016, significantly upping its scale and capability. Darling Group Managing Director, Andrew Darling, said the development would be a significant milestone for the Group. 16 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
The architect’s rendition of the new J.H. Leavy & Co. warehouse.
Third stage of solar project comes to an end Stage 3 of the Solar Project will be completed this July. At the time of going to print, all 12 buildings with solar panels installed in Stage 3 were producing solar energy for the Brisbane Markets® site. In total, during Stage 3 6,802 solar panels have been installed on the site. BML’s solar assets can now generate an estimated 7 Ghw of power each year, which is the equivalent of powering 1,076 households and equates to approximately 15% of the site’s total power requirements.
$17.5m C1 project reaches completion After years of discussion, design, development and construction, the $17.5m Building C1 project reached practical completion on Wednesday, 17 April, and the momentous occasion was marked by the handover of keys to new tenant, Montague. On hand to witness the handover was Brisbane Markets Limited (BML) CEO Andrew Young and Chief Property Officer Tricia Williams, Montague Executive Director Hamish Montague and Business Operations Manager John Hunter, SBP Australia Managing Director Max Burns, Director Nev Hombsch and Project Manager Wayne Berquist, along with staff and contractors who contributed to the huge undertaking.
to the fresh produce industry.” Mr Montague expressed relief at the completion of the project and said he looked forward to the challenge of moving in and getting the new warehouse up and running. “State-of-the-art equipment in state-of-the-art facilities is the way of the future for Montague,” he said. “This development is important for our future growth, allowing us to grow our brand, to grow our businesses in Queensland, and to support our business on a national scale with worldclass facilities.”
The massive 5,578m2 facility contains ripening rooms, cold storage, consumer packaging facilities, an electric forklift charging station and substantial office space.
According to Mr Young, BML was dedicated to meeting tenants’ needs to facilitate the warehousing, marketing, and distribution of fresh produce in Queensland.
“Everyone involved in the project is justifiably proud and satisfied with the outcome we have achieved and it is great to finally hand it over to the tenant,” Mr Young said.
“Because BML focuses on delivering purpose-built facilities for our tenants, there are often long lead times on development projects,” Mr Young said.
“The new warehouse is a significant achievement that follows on from a number of other major projects BML has undertaken to ensure the Brisbane Markets® site is upgraded and redeveloped to a high standard as part of our commitment
“We work closely with prospective tenants to help them focus on the needs of their business now, and in the future, to ensure the design is customised to provide the amenities they wish to offer their customers and staff,” he said.
Original elevation drawing of the C1 building by its designers, dwp architects.
Raising the walls in October 2018.
The freshly completed, purpose-built warehouse.
Refrigerated warehousing space and pallet shelving in the nearly completed Montague Building C1.
Marking the handover were (left to right) Terry Prowd (BML), Tricia Williams (BML), Nev Hombsch (SBPA), Ryan Knott (SBPA), Max Burns (SBPA), Oliver Green (Montague), Wayne Berquist (SBPA), Andrew Young (BML), Hamish Montague (Montague), and John Hunter (Montague).
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 17
Feature MEET OUR WHOLESALERS Meet the Brisbane Produce Market wholesalers
Ten tips for working with a wholesaler
There are 51 fruit and vegetable wholesalers who make up Brismark’s member base, each an independent business that operates from Queensland’s Central Market: the Brisbane Produce Market (BPM).
1. Make sure you have a signed Horticulture Produce Agreement between you and your wholesaler. It is a mandatory requirement of the Horticulture Code of Conduct, speak to your wholesaler or visit https://www.accc.gov.au/business/industry-codes/ horticulture-code-of-conduct.
Each operator competes for the same business. Such competition ensures prices are based on supply and demand, and with pricing changing daily buyers can always be assured of getting the best produce at competitive market prices. This is passed onto primary wholesalers’ customers or buyers such as independent retailers and secondary wholesalers or provedores.
Who is Brismark? Brismark is a member organisation which represents and serves the needs of the wholesaling sector of the fresh fruit and vegetable industry, in particular the primary wholesalers who operate out of the BPM. Brismark provides advocacy and financial, commercial and marketing services to primary wholesalers, secondary wholesalers, commercial buyers, growers, industry groups and job seekers. As a member organisation it actively lobbies on major industry issues such as the Horticulture Code of Conduct. It also offers a Credit Service facility which acts as a clearing house for its members and associated businesses that operate within the Brisbane Produce Market providing a secure, efficient and paperless means of conducting business within the BPM.
2. Visit the Central Markets and try to come in-season too, so that you can compare your product and packaging with the competition. 3. Communicate with your wholesaler and let them know if you are experiencing any difficulties or expect an especially good crop so that forward planning can take place. 4. Is your packaging up to scratch? Ensure your packaging is appropriate and supports the overall presentation of the produce. 5. Keep up-to-date records of your transactions. Always use consignment notes to help track your produce. These are a great reference point if something ever goes wrong. 6. Accurately grade and describe your fruit. Throwing your produce into grade 1 boxes when the produce is grade 2 will only break down your relationship with the wholesaler and the regular purchasers of your product. 7. Use reliable carriers who can get your produce to its destination on time and in good condition. 8. Contact your wholesaler quickly if you do not receive payment by the agreed time.
To contact Brismark, you can visit www.brismark.com.au for more information, or:
9. Listen to your wholesaler’s advice and be prepared to accept constructive criticism. Your wholesaler does have an interest in seeing you reach the best possible price for your product.
Phone: 07 3915 4222 Email: admin@brismark.com.au Visit: Level 2 Fresh Centre, Brismark Markets, 385 Sherwood Road, Rocklea QLD 4106 Post: PO Box 70, Brisbane Markets®, QLD 4106
10. Stick to the numbers of pallets or cartons that you have advised your wholesaler you will be sending. Never send produce unannounced or short change an order because your wholesaler usually knows exactly how much produce is required.
Contact Brismark
18 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
Company Name
Contacts
Mobile
Phone
Alfred E Chave Pty Ltd
Anthony Joseph
0418 876 330
07 3379 1071
anthonyj@alfredechave.com.au
Armstrong Bros Fruit & Veg Merchants
Drew Armstrong
0408 742 177
07 3379 5344
DSarmstrong@bigpond.com
Ba Naanez Plus
Terry Hampson
0419 187 952
07 3915 4107
sales@urt.net.au
BG Brisbane
Anthony Gribben
0411 723 001
07 3278 2877
anthony@bgbrisbane.com.au
Carter and Spencer
Craig Spencer
0418 723 286
07 3361 5555
craig.spencer@carter-spencer.com.au
Central Park Produce
Jonathon Goody
0417 713 235
07 3193 5240
jon@centralparkproduce.com.au
Costa Group
Ryan O’Keeffe
0427 604 211
07 3379 0300
ryan.okeeffe@costaexchange.com.au
Cumming Produce Centre
Nick Marentis
0438 270 672
07 3379 3409
cumming.produce@optusnet.com.au
Don Alroe & Sons
Paul Alroe
0412 755 665
07 3379 3554
paul@donalroe.com.au
Favco Queensland Pty Ltd
Mark Clarke
0407 781 792
07 3717 1500
markc@favcoqld.com.au
Franklin Bros
Mark Alston
0418 197 295
07 3379 5944
mark@franklinbros.com.au
Freshmax Australia
Alan Engeman
0416 191 365
07 3392 7596
aengeman@dbmco.com.au
Garden Verde
Bassam (Sam) Abou Chahla
0410 417 916
07 3379 9590
verde@bigpond.net.au
Gibb Bros
Nicholas Gibb
0419 175 878
07 3379 9999
nick@gibbbros.com.au
Giua Produce
Thuy Ngoc Nguyen Trinh
0419 194 988
GNL Produce
Neale Cullen
0412 092 207
07 3278 1275
admin@gnlproduce.com.au
Gollagher Bros Pty Ltd
Stephen Gollagher
0409 635 700
07 3278 3711
stephen@gollagher.com.au
Gourmetlink
Douglas Rylance
0418 748 096
07 3278 1724
doug@fruitlink.com.au
H E Heather & Co (Brisbane Market)
Troy Beaton
0419 662 293
07 3278 2666
troybeaton@heheather.com.au
Ireland 53
Gary Vedelago
0418 743 028
07 3379 1131
grantsouthen@yahoo.com
J Allen Pty Ltd
Gary Lower
0418 709 291
07 3379 8644
gary@jallen.com.au
J E Tipper Pty Ltd
Steve Barnes
0435 054 528
07 3379 1041
steve@jetipper.com.au
J. H. Leavy & Co.
Ben Bartlett
0428 454 979
07 3379 4659
ben@jhleavy.com.au
John Potter Pty Ltd
William Mills
0413 911 700
07 3278 0600
safety@workready.net.au
King Pak Australia
Jack George
0408 459 867
07 3717 1400
jack@simongeorge.com.au
LaManna Premier
Pierre Tannouri
0447 571 984
07 3848 2999
pierre.tannouri@lpgroup.com.au
Lavender & Sons
Gary Lavender
0412 192 370
07 3278 5082
gwl2@bigpond.com
Lind & Sons Pty Ltd
Fraser Lind
0418 714 528
07 3379 7999
lindandsons@lindandsons.com.au
M & D Vegetable Specialists Pty Ltd
Mark Moore
0418 784 249
07 3379 5500
markmoore072@hotmail.com
Marendy & Sons Produce
Mary Marendy
07 3379 1384
marendyandsons@bigpond.com
Marland Mushrooms
Troy Marland
0439 968 878
07 3278 1112
admin@marlandmushrooms.com.au
Montague Fresh (Qld) Pty Ltd
Hamish Montague
0408 750 869
07 3270 3175
hamish@montague.com.au
Murray Bros
Stephen Edwards
0438 949 911
07 3875 8100
sedwards@murraybros.com.au
Nutrano Trading QLD
Blair Gibbs
0475 999 051
02 9746 9800
blair.gibbs@nutrano.com.au
O’Toole Produce
Paul O’Toole
0429 100 500
07 3278 1700
info@otoole.net.au
Perfection Fresh Australia Pty Ltd
Jane Rowles
0400 877 020
07 3310 3900
jane@perfection.com.au
Pershouse Produce
Peter Kedwell
0419 673 344
07 3379 3034
pk@asbarr.com
Priority Produce
Steven Rosten
0413 199 904
07 3915 4140
Steve@priorityproduce.com.au
R W Pascoe
Noel Greenhalgh
0417 744 935
07 3379 2686
noel@rwpascoe.com.au
Rising Sun Produce
Christian Hoath
0427 747 464
07 3278 0555
info@risingsun.net.au
Romeo’s Marketing (QLD)
Debbie Trimboli
0412 967 107
07 3278 5455
debbie@rmqld.com.au
Ross & Co
Carlo Triboli
0400 247 571
07 3379 3043
admin@rossandco.com.au
Shamrock Marketing
Bob Koning
0408 727 027
07 3915 5010
admin@shamrock136.com.au
So Crisp
Craig Chard
0419 734 587
07 3278 2133
craig@socrisp.com.au
SR Produce
Said Rahme
0477 477 445
07 3915 6725
admin@srproduce.com
Stanton & Son
Marc Stanton
0418 872 905
07 3294 8029
stantoninvestments@bigpond.com
Sutton Fresh Direct
Trent Sutton
0434 157 905
Top Class Fruit Supply
John Mastroianni
0419 930 830
07 3278 6188
john@topclassfruit.com.au
United Lettuce
Mark Murphy
0418 798 462
07 3379 9288
mark@infruit.org
United Organics
Martin Meek
0418 982 625
07 3278 5997
martin@unitedorganics.com.au
Viva Produce
Peter Lahey
0418 752 404
07 3379 7309
peter@bananaripeners.com.au
giuaproduce@hotmail.com
admin@suttonfreshdirect.com.au
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 19
Central Markets are important links joining on e vast horticulture supply chain. Fresh Perspectives provid es an insight into this rich and varied industry, focusi ng on the characters, and characteristics, of the wo rld of horticulture.
Logistics, innovation, relationships: the foundation of the Central Market As Queensland’s Central Market, the Brisbane Produce Market (BPM) is the central hub for the logistics and marketing of fresh produce, but it is also a place where relationships are built between growers, wholesalers, retailers and industry service providers. M&D Vegetable Specialists has been a part of the BPM for 32 years and specialises in mainstream vegetables such as tomatoes, zucchinis, capsicums, broccoli, and cauliflower. Its principal Mark Moore has worked at BPM for 40 years and started the business with his brother-in-law. Bart Grierson has been a secondary wholesaler for 28 years, first with Today’s Harvest and for the past 20 years with his business Fresh Selections, selling fresh produce to independent grocery stores across NSW, Queensland and the Northern Territory. Lindsay Australia Limited (LAL) is a major player in Australia’s refrigerated transport industry, having been in business for over 65 years. According to Glen Lindsay, CEO of Lindsay Fresh Logistics, a subsidiary of LAL, 70% of the freight shipped by LAL is fresh fruit and vegetables.
ideas as well as the point where prices are set. “I believe we have a really important part to play to facilitate the marketing of fresh produce. The product coming through the BPM serves consumers from Darwin to Coffs Harbour on a daily basis as well as supplying national and international markets seasonally,” Mr Moore said. Mr Grierson is proof of that, with customers from as far north as Darwin down to near Newcastle. “The big benefit of Central Markets for secondary wholesalers like us is that we can get orders from our stores by late afternoon, buy the product that night and then have our first orders leave first thing in the morning. Our window is very small,” Mr Grierson said. “When you look at how much it would cost to run a business effectively outside of the Central Market, it just doesn’t stack up. If there was no Central Market, we would have to warehouse a lot more stock and we’d need a longer lead time from our customers which they would resist.”
Keystone of horticulture
Both Mr Grierson and Mr Moore highlighted the extra services and infrastructure that are provided at Brisbane Markets, including Brismark’s Credit Service and Business Services.
Mr Moore, Mr Grierson and Mr Lindsay all agreed that the Central Market system underpins the entire horticulture industry.
“The tight credit controls offered by Brismark Credit Service is extremely beneficial, providing us with certainty of payment,” Mr Moore said.
“Our horticulture industry would be in trouble if we didn’t have the Central Markets,” Mr Lindsay said.
Mr Grierson said he only discovered Brismark’s Business Services 18 months ago, but the human resources support has proven invaluable.
According to Mr Moore, the Central Market serves as a meeting point for 20 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
Both Mr Moore and Mr Grierson said making the Central Trading Area completely undercover has been the stand-out improvement to infrastructure at the BPM. “It’s the best money Brisbane Markets Limited ever spent. It’s hard to imagine what it used to be like before, it was terrible in bad weather. Having a secure site is very handy as well, sometimes it can feel laborious getting in and out, but we have a lot of money tied into this business, so it saves me having to hire my own security,” Mr Grierson said.
Logistics of innovation If the Central Market is the keystone of Australian horticulture, then logistics is the mortar that holds the industry together. LAL now has over 300 prime movers, 100 rigid trucks, 750 semi-trailers and approximately 80 rail containers, and in 2018 alone they moved 2 million pallets of freight. “Every night, we put around 700 pallets in the Brisbane Produce Market from all across the country,” Mr Lindsay said. Mr Lindsay, Mr Grierson and Mr Moore agreed that innovations in logistics have changed the horticulture industry for the better. “The innovation that allows us to move product around the country is the greatest strength of our horticulture industry. Logistically, we have come so far. Australia is such a big country, and yet we can consider purchasing produce from Tasmania and have it sent here, to the other end of the country,” Mr Grierson said.
Bart Grierson Principal, Fresh Selections
Mr Moore said that the way fresh produce was handled across the supply chain had changed dramatically over his years at the BPM. “Supply of produce is much more consistent, and the quality is exceptional. It’s a compliment to the growers, the technology they have access to and advances in logistics are a result of their efforts,” Mr Moore said. Mr Grierson and Mr Lindsay agreed that a lot of innovation in the horticulture industry comes from growers themselves. Indeed, Mr Lindsay said that many of the infrastructure improvements LAL had incorporated were customer driven. “We listen to our customers and what they need,” Mr Lindsay said. “Then we thoroughly investigate what we want to do and new technology before we implement it, to improve our business, our customer service, and the safety of our employees and the public.” Mr Lindsay said that improvements in road infrastructure and the vehicles in their fleet had resulted in each vehicle carrying more weight, resulting in fewer trucks on the road. “We are a leader in the industry and if we don’t keep looking for new and better ways to do things we would become second best.
Relationships across the supply chain It doesn’t matter who you speak to, everyone agrees that it is the relationships formed and the characters you meet that gets people who work at the BPM out of bed early in the morning with a spring in their step. A good relationship between wholesalers and growers takes time to develop and is based on communication and trust.
Mark Moore Principal, M&D Vegetable Specialists
Glen Lindsay CEO, Lindsay Fresh Logistics
“As a wholesaler, you find good outlets for the growers’ produce and get to watch as their operation grows. You take them on a journey and are allowed to go on their journey with them. You are invested in their success and get to contribute to that success, it is a very rewarding experience. In the horticulture industry, we all do what we do to feed our family and other people’s families,” Mr Moore said.
between the two,” Mr Grierson said.
Mr Moore also praised the community of secondary wholesalers and retailers who buy from the BPM.
“My father used to deliver to the Central Market when it was in Roma Street, so Lindsay has been associated with the Brisbane Markets for a long time. It certainly has changed a lot. We see it getting better and improving all the time. The agents work hard to keep the cold chain consistent, giving the grower’s produce a longer shelf life,” Mr Lindsay said.
Retailers really are experts in what they do. They touch, feel, and smell the produce, they know it and their customers. To them it is not just a commodity, it is a living breathing thing, it is a product they take pride in,” Mr Moore said. As a secondary wholesaler, Mr Grierson agreed that working in retail provides a different perspective on produce and the needs of the consumer. “Some people are very good wholesalers, or very good buyers, but they just haven’t gotten their hands dirty in the shop,” Mr Grierson said. “When we are looking at the product, we definitely look at the quality first. The grading, the colour, and if that comes within what we think can be sold in store, then we look at the price and what price it can get at retail, then consider how much they will be able to sell.” Mr Grierson said that just because a product can be sold in one store, doesn’t mean it is suitable for a retailer in a different area. “It is not a case of one job fits all. Some retailers only want the highest quality while others are looking for a good product that is good value for money, then there are others who are in
An ever-changing environment Advances in technology have changed the nature of the hustle and bustle of the BPM. Forklifts, mobile phones, computers and transport infrastructure have all altered the dynamic of the fresh produce supply chain.
For Mr Grierson and Mr Moore, it is the difference in telecommunications that stands out. “On Monday mornings, the buyers would flock to a bank of phones, it reminded me of those Wall Street movies. You’d be ringing the wholesalers, trying to place your orders. From 4am until 6am was absolutely chaos, prices would change dramatically as stock ran out,” Mr Grierson said. Mr Moore explained that while the BPM was still based on supply and demand, improved communication methods had enabled wholesalers to pre-plan more effectively. “Technology has made the exchange of information so much quicker. We are a lot more efficient and can communicate faster. It has been very beneficial because you have a better idea of what’s coming from your supplier base,” Mr Moore said.
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 21
PERSPECTIVES “Knowing what your growers have in their paddocks, when supply is going to be heaviest, this is what helps you keep ahead so you can act beforehand rather than react as it is happening,” Mr Moore said. According to Mr Grierson, it’s not just the wholesaling aspect of fresh produce that has changed. Consumers and the seasonality of produce have also adjusted over time. “Consumer tastes have changed dramatically over the last 30 years and there is much more consistency in produce throughout the year. When I first started, you would have short seasons and everyone bought the fruit that was in season because they knew that in a few months’ time you just wouldn’t be able to buy it,” Mr Grierson said. “Consumers’ purchasing habits have also changed. If cauliflower is on sale now, you might decide to buy one to eat that day, but back in the 80s and 90s if it was cheap you would buy five or six and do more with it,” he said. Mr Moore said over the years there had been dramatic changes in the way produce is handled, however, many of the tasks undertaken by wholesalers still centred around caring for the product. “Central Markets will always change, flourish and grow. The horticulture supply chain may look a little different in the future, but there will still be a great need for our product,” Mr Moore said. “The horticulture industry adapts to change extremely well, it’s just in our nature. Everything can change on a daily basis within the market: products, supply, heat, rain, the whole lot. You just have to accept it, embrace it and
make it work for you. That’s part of the excitement,” he said.
Opportunity from the challenges While the large supermarket chains have taken their toll on smaller retailers, the ones who have survived are better placed to serve the end consumer and meet their demand for quality fresh produce, Mr Grierson said. “While the number of independent fruit and vegetable shops has reduced, the ones left are very good. The key is understanding your customers and understanding the difference between your store and a large grocery chain. Figure out what makes you, and your customers, unique,” Mr Grierson said. Mr Moore said costs were probably the main challenge facing all aspects of the horticulture supply chain. “The red tape on business is quite extraordinary, we are a small family business and yet we have the similar regulatory requirements as a massive organisation. The viability of both retailers and growers is under pressure due to the burden of penalty rates and the cost of compliance with government regulations,” Mr Moore said. Mr Grierson noted that supply was going to continue to be a big challenge for independent retailers.
Mr Lindsay sees opportunities both in the export market as well as locally in Central Markets. “I think there are still plenty of opportunities available by exploring export opportunities for our growers and our exporters. Being in the Central Market system where the produce is located, is definitely a growth area for us,” Mr Lindsay said. Mr Moore said that while pre-prepared meals and dining out is a challenge to the purchase of fresh produce by end consumers, the opportunities far outweigh these threats. “Our biggest advantage as fresh produce wholesalers is that we sell a product that is healthy, nutritious and feeds the nation,” Mr Moore said. According to Mr Grierson, the purchase of fresh produce is higher on the priority list for consumers, compared to 30 years ago, thanks to healthy eating campaigns and teaching consumers how to use different produce. However, Mr Moore suggested more could be done to promote fresh produce to the end consumer. “If we increase consumption, we get more sales and the public benefits from buying great produce that is good value, excellent quality and great for your health,” Mr Moore said.
“Their biggest competitor in the future isn’t the big supermarket chains, it’s the billions of people overseas who want to purchase our produce because we are seen as clean and green. They’re willing to pay a premium price for Australian produce while the area we are growing in is shrinking,” Mr Grierson said.
DID YOU KNOW? The Brisbane Flower Market had the biggest Mother’s Day ever, with an increase in sales of up to 50%.
Tips for Growers
Tips for Retailers
Mark Moore
Bart Grierson
Communication is the key. Your wholesaler understands what the customer base wants and what other suppliers are doing. Talk to your wholesaler so they can plan ahead and visit them in person.
Understand your customers. Different areas have different demographics, and you need to provide services and market your products in a way that is tailored to your customers.
Check out the competition. Come to the Brisbane Produce Market and see what others are doing, see where you are placed within the Central Market. Take the time to get to know and understand your market so you can work with it more effectively.
Find your point of difference. There is no way a small independent retailer can compete with the big chains on price or brand power. Instead, you have to highlight the ways that you are unique and boutique to make yourself stand out to your customers.
22 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
give produce waste a second life! Stay ahead of the waste levy and reduce your General Waste costs by using our new Produce Waste Recycling Service!
We can tailor a solution that suits your tenancy: Rear Lift bins
Front Lift bins
Bulk bins for large volumes
For more information, contact your BML SUEZ Account Manager,
05330
Cathy Hollis – M: 0401 980 486 – E: cathy.hollis@suez.com
Market community invests in export security Security for fresh produce headed to the export market via aviation has increased and businesses within the Brisbane Markets® have installed infrastructure to ensure exports can continue without a hitch. Since 1 March 2019, the new Enhanced Air Cargo Examination (EACE) process has been in effect globally and brings all export air freight up to the standards applied to US-bound cargo, which has been in place since 2017. For fresh produce, this involves using electronic metal detection or human intervention to examine the lowest level of consolidation, known as ‘piece-level examination’, prior to uplift on to aircraft. All products destined for export must be examined by a Registered Air Cargo Agent (RACA), unless they are being sent by a Known Consigner or an Accredited Air Cargo Agent (AACA) in which case it is assumed that the cargo has already been examined on a piece-level. As of 1 July, the only Regulated Air Cargo Agent based at the Brisbane Markets site is Lindsay Fresh Logistics. The approved Known Consigners on site are Alfred E Chave Pty Ltd, A.S. Barr Group, and Global Fresh Australia Pty Ltd, trading as J.H. Leavy & Co. All involved have had to heighten their security, including installing physical locks, implementing staff protocols, applying for Air Security Identification Cards, and creating procedures to keep mainstream and secured produce separate. Both Alfred E Chave and J.H. Leavy use manual examination methods, while A.S. Barr and Lindsay Fresh Logistics have installed electronic metal detectors.
24 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
International Logistics Manager for J.H. Leavy, Justin Keir, said that educating staff and site visitors of the changes was the biggest challenge of becoming a Known Consigner. “Visitors now have to wait until they are attended to by an appropriate staff member, so we’ve had to train our staff to challenge people they see wandering around that aren’t a part of our organisation,” Mr Keir said. Anthony Joseph, Export Director at Alfred E Chave, said the security program registration process was straightforward as Alfred E Chave already had the critical infrastructure in place to support the program and its requirements.
metal. If found, the scanner provides both a visual and an audible alarm. The EMIS at Lindsay Fresh is large enough to examine pallets of cargo, currently height limited to 150cm, does not depend on visual interpretation by the operator, and will not damage perishable items. According to Glen Lindsay, CEO of Lindsay Fresh Logistics, his company made the large investment in infrastructure to increase public safety as well as to add value and services for their customers. “With the implementation of EACE, nothing is transported overseas via air cargo without being metal and explosive trace detected, it is now the international standard,” Mr Lindsay said. “Without our RACA certification and the infrastructure we have implemented in association with it, Lindsay Fresh Logistics wouldn’t have an export air division.”
“As a significant exporter out of Australia, it was critical we became a Known Consigner to ensure business continued as usual,” Mr Joseph said. A.S Barr Group Principal, Joe Saina, said becoming involved in EACE was essential to providing services to their customers and involved considerable changes to their site security. “As an international logistic provider supporting other exporters both on and off shore, we had to become a Known Consigner. It means that our overseas customers are able to contact growers to source produce and we can undertake the logistics of getting that produce from the grower to the customer,” Mr Saina said. In expectation of these changes, Lindsay Fresh Logistics installed an ElectroMagnetic Inspection Scanner (EMIS) which provides automatic detection of detonators and electronic circuits from Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), ammunition and weapons composed of
Piece-level examination: Lindsay Fresh Logistics 2IC Export/Import Manager, Cameron Wallace, putting a pallet through the Electro-Magnetic Inspection Scanner.
New chief for export import association There is a changing of the guard at the Australian Horticultural Exporters’ and Importers’ Association (AHEIA) this month, with Dr Andréa Magiafoglou taking over from retiring CEO Dominic Jenkin. According to AHEIA Chairman, Joseph Saina, Ms Magiafoglou brings to the role comprehensive experience within horticultural market access, trade development, market readiness and export compliance. “The appointment of Dr Andréa Magiafoglou will further enhance
and enrich the solid representational foundation built and refined by Dominic Jenkin,” Mr Saina said “Andréa has been involved at the grass roots level of horticultural production environments and has a proven ability to engage with the diverse range of stakeholders along the value chain. “Over the last three years the AHEIA has continued to support and promote a highly proactive level of engagement across the broadening spectrum of dynamic and complex horticultural trade issues.”
Australia enters free trade deal with Indonesia Australia has signed a free-trade agreement with Indonesia after eight years of negotiation. On 4 March, Trade Minister Simon Birmingham and his Indonesian counterpart Enggartiasto Lukita signed the
New AEIHA CEO Andréa Magiafoglou.
Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) in Jakarta in what was described by Senator Birmingham as “a win-win agreement”. The then Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources David Littleproud said the deal would help farmers sell more product and source more seasonal workers. “Improved duty free quotas will be put in place for citrus and horticultural products,” Mr Littleproud said. “Also, we’re increasing work and holiday visas for Indonesians from 1,000 to 5,000, which will make a big difference for producers who need seasonal workers.”
Vegetable exports increase in value Australian vegetable growers are benefiting from strong demand for locally-grown vegetables in key export markets and investment in increasing their exporting capabilities, with trade data indicating that total fresh vegetable exports increased 11.4% in value and 15.5% cent in volume in 2018. Australia’s fresh vegetable exports grew to AUD$281 million in 2018 on the back of strong growth in key export markets in Singapore (which grew 7.5% in value to AUD$50.5 million – the first time over AUD$50 million), Japan (8.7% to AUD$32 million) and Thailand (54% to AUD$7.8 million). The volume of Australian fresh vegetable exports has also seen strong growth, which has contributed to the rise in value. The total volume of Australian fresh vegetable exports increased 15.5% to 227,000 tonnes, with increases across most major markets, including Singapore (11% increase to 30,000 tonnes), Japan (11% increase to 11,500 tonnes) and Thailand (over 100% increase to 10,500 tonnes). Carrots remained the strongest export performer in 2018 at 113,000 tonnes, increasing in value by 5.1% to AUD$98 million. Some other key vegetable exports include potato, onion, celery, broccoli and cauliflower, which all increased in value and volume in 2018.
Commodity
Value 2018 Change (AUD$ (%) million)
Volume 2018 (t)
Change (%)
Carrot
98
+5.1
113,000
+7.5
Potato
32
+27
41,000
+28
Onion
24
+25
34,000
+23
Broccoli/ Cauliflower
22.5
+24
8,500
+33.5
Celery
7.8
+12.5
4,900
+11.5
All commodities
281
+11.4
227,000
+15.5
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 25
Veg in this winter at Your Local Fruit Shop
Plastic bags are so last season
This winter, A Better Choice (ABC) and Your Local Fruit Shop (YLFS) Brand Ambassador Sam Thaiday is back to remind us to Veg in this Winter and beat the winter blues with fresh seasonal Queensland vegetables from Your Local Fruit Shop.
This global trend is translating to an increased positive public sentiment to the adoption of plastic reduction initiatives in homes and an expectation that retail outlets provide environmentally-friendly options.
It is anticipated that Sam will represent great customer engagement across the state, with the campaign cheekily referencing his involvement in Australia’s passion for the NRL’s State of Origin.
While most consumers embraced Queensland’s new single-use plastic bag ban in July 2018, some have struggled to remember re-useable bags for products and sometimes baulked at the cost of replacement options.
The campaign is designed to entice all Queenslanders to ‘TRY’ a variety of fresh, seasonal Queensland produce in store. Look out for Sam in a wide range of media including radio, a video series, recipes flyers, point of sale material and in-store activation through an exclusive ABC/YLFS Veg in this Winter giveaway later in the season.
Retailers too have been presented with both challenges and opportunities such as: sourcing a cost-efficient bag alternative in-store; new methods of stock presentation and storage; adopting new practices for presenting bulk purchases; and, effective portion pricing.
There has been growth in public awareness of the environmental impacts of discarded plastic.
There have been recent reports of large food and retail outlets adopting Plastic Free July to encourage shoppers to reduce their plastic burden by remembering their bags, bringing their own coffee cups, straws, water bottles and more. On 6 July, Sam and Rachel Thaiday held a live Facebook event with the couple encouraged viewers to ‘Veg in this Winter’, by cooking fresh and seasonal winter vegetables. Sam invited viewers to get into Your Local Fruit Shop and ask for the limited edition ‘Veg in the Winter’ reusable shopping bags, available from all participating Your Local Fruit Shops. Like and follow the Your Local Fruit Shop Facebook page and stay tuned for more details or locate your nearest store by visiting www.yourlocalfruitshop.com.au. Remember, Your Local Fruit Shop is A Better Choice for quality, freshness and service.
new YLFS campaign Beating the blues: The gin. ent in the State of Ori em olv inv ’s references Sam
26 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
“Today, I’m trying a new recipe with beautiful Queensland winter veg from Your Local Fruit Shop - It’s A Better Choice!” - SAM “TRY”DAY [ WINTER VEG LOVER ]
yourlocalfruitshop.com.au
RETAILING
Eating vegetables for the kids, and your health By Dale Cook, Accredited Practicing Dietitian, Diabetes Queensland
Mum always told us to eat our vegetables and, of course, she was right. Vegetables provide us with vitamins, minerals, fibre and phytonutrients – natural plant chemicals which are good for our health – and they are low in kilojoules while being great tasting and versatile. They fill us up, bulk and soften our stools, help with weight management and research also shows that vegies (and fruit) can help protect us against chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke and some types of cancers. Different vegetables contain different nutrients so choose a variety of colours for every meal. Make sure to include different parts of the plant too, such as leaves (like spinach), roots (like potatoes), and legumes such as dried peas, beans, lentils and chickpeas. Whatever age we are we should eat vegetables every day with as many meals (and snacks) as possible. There is increasing evidence that the risk of developing chronic diseases begins before we are born and continues into old age, so getting kids to eat vegetables every day will make them healthier in the long term. Fruit and vegetables contain slightly different nutrients so while vegetables can replace fruit in our diet, fruit can’t replace vegetables. Fruit is usually sweet because it contains carbohydrates in the form of fructose or fruit sugar. They also are generally
high in vitamin C and folate, while also providing potassium and fibre. On the other hand, all vegetables provide vitamin C, and dark green and orange vegetables are an especially good source of carotenes with beta carotene converted in the body to vitamin A. Green vegetables and dried peas, beans and lentils are good sources of folate. Legumes/beans are also a good source of protein, iron, zinc and carbohydrate. Other vegetables, such as potatoes, are a good source of carbohydrate, too. And they all provide a source of fibre.
Tips for getting kids to eat more vegetables Pack it into lunch: Get the kids to help pack their lunch boxes so they are more likely to eat what is taken to school. If they like sandwiches and wraps then add plenty of salad to their favourite fillings, like cheese or lean cold meat. Snacks might include raw vegetable sticks with tzatziki or avocado, or a baked potato in its skin topped with Mexican beans.
Grow and cook together: Getting kids involved in growing and cooking vegetables can help with vegetable acceptance. In addition to teaching kids important life skills, involving kids in gardening and cooking allows them to become familiar with different types of vegetables, and reduces fears and aversions. Don’t be afraid to explore: Keep offering new vegies, even if it is just exploring what it looks and smells like, then moving on to how it tastes and feels in the mouth. If a vegetable is not accepted, try offering it in a different form, cut a different way or even just on a different day! Always keep offering previously rejected vegetables as after many tries they may decide they do like it after all. Be a role model: The most important tip for parents and carers is to enjoy meals as a family, with adults role modelling by eating their vegetables! Providing alternative meals, force-feeding or offering rewards or incentives will not benefit kids’ vegetable consumption in the long-term.
Minimum recommended serves of vegetables per day* Males
2–3 years 2½
4–8 years 4½
9–11 years 5
12–18 years 5½
18–50 years 6
51–70 years 5½
70+ years 5
Females
2½
4½
5
5
5
5
5
*Australian Dietary Guidelines. A serve is equal to about 75g of vegies, about one cup of salad or half a cup cooked vegies or an average tomato.
Living your best fresh lifestyle On 30 March, the A Better Choice (ABC)/Your Local Fruit Shop (YLFS) and BuyFruit stand was buzzing with conversations about the benefits of shopping locally through independent retailers at Diabetes Queensland’s Live Your Life Expo. Recipe ideas and seasonal buying guides were exceptionally popular as consumers looked for ways of getting more fresh fruit and vegetables into their daily meals. Held in Brisbane and attended by over 600 people, the Live Your Life Expo was packed with relevant, practical and up-to-date information for people who have been living with diabetes, are newly diagnosed or are supporting somebody with diabetes. 28 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
Living a fresh life: The ABC/YLFS/BuyFruit stand at the Live Your Life Expo.
Funding for vegetable education We all know eating vegetables is good for us, but to encourage the next generation to snack on fresh produce, perceptions have to change. Three tools funded by Hort Innovations are in the process of being researched, released or revamped to encourage consumers to increase their vegetable intake, especially children.
New research: VegKit A new research collaboration between the CSIRO, Flinders University and Nutrition Australia is aiming to deliver a free toolkit for educators, health professionals and research agencies that includes information on dietary guidelines, and evidence-based knowledge of flavour exposure and food preference. The 5-year VegKit research project will produce: • Best practice guidelines and a national online register of initiatives to increase vegetable intake. • Further development and coordination of the Vegetable Intake Strategic Alliance (VISA).
• Updated dietary advice for maternal, infant and early years to facilitate children’s vegetable intake.
New revamp: Veggycation.com.au
• Initiatives in the community to increase children’s vegetable intake.
The nutrition, origins, health benefits and even cooking and storage tips for more than 80 vegetables have been showcased through the newly relaunched Veggycation website, an online educational tool designed for consumers, growers and educators.
• Supply chain initiatives to increase children’s vegetable intake.
New release: Phenomenom.com.au The new Phenomenom program provides primary school teachers with free digital resources to help improve the perception of vegetables in children, giving them a healthier attitude towards eating fresh produce. The resources include videos, activities and ready-made lesson plans designed to slip more serves of vegetables into every classroom. Super Humans covers health and PE, Legends is available for history and culture classes, Super Natural Science covers science, technologies and mathematics, Eco Logic covers sustainability and geography, while Good Chat is designed to be used in English and language classes.
The website includes information around health claims approved by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand, waste reduction techniques, nutritional information, optimum cooking methods, preparation and storage – everything that anyone buying vegetables could need to get the best out of their purchase. Veggycation also includes information for growers, including optimum harvesting times, postharvest storage temperature guides, any known benefits of controlled atmosphere storage, ethylene sensitivity, humidity storage and notes on key disease and infection issues.
Every day, two Australians are diagnosed with MND and two Australians die from MND. There is no cure or treatment and the average life expectancy is 2.5 years.
Please help us ensure that no Queenslander has to face Motor Neurone Disease alone. Reach out, take the next step and join us to become part of the solution.
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 29
RETAILING
Reviewing the success of A Better Choice In July 2018, the first national program designed to encourage consumers to shop for fresh produce at their local independent retailer was launched. The A Better Choice (ABC) program, a joint initiative by Fresh Markets Australia (FMA) and the Central Markets Association of Australia (CMAA), sees FMA and CMAA working hand-in-hand with industry partners to conduct a range of branding and co-promotional activities. The program supports 500 independent fruit and vegetable retailers nationally, who supply more than half of the fresh produce sold across Australia, by engaging consumers and highlighting the benefits of shopping at independent retailers. Working collaboratively, key stakeholders have laid strong foundations for the success of this new initiative. The ABC website was launched and has grown to become a major component of the marketing strategy with targeted blog
articles, recipes showcasing fresh fruit and vegetables, and state retailer profiles supporting the ‘Find my Local Store’ interactive directory. A soft media campaign was executed for the launch of the ABC program to industry and regional publications. The PR campaign resulted in the drafting and distribution of the ‘National program set to boost fruit and veg industry’ press release to target media and liaison with key contacts to secure coverage for ABC. Media coverage was secured in Fruit Net, Fresh Plaza, Food and Beverage Magazine, Good Fruit and Vegetables, Country News, and Business Acumen reaching an audience of 82,188 people. This initial launch was successful in achieving positive media coverage and brand exposure. The new ABC brand was rolled out in all states, supported by a range of marketing collateral and supporting documents to facilitate the launch to all National Retail Program stakeholders. Through a staged implementation, the ABC logo can be seen co-branded with existing state retailer programs on marketing material, websites and social media. Consumer engagement across all digital channels has been phenomenal with 80,000 Facebook followers and over 2,000,000 impressions per month with growth far exceeding expectations within the first year.
There has been an ongoing focus by state chambers to sign up retailers to the program and expand their profiles on the ABC website. Initial retailer engagement levels are high with an overwhelmingly positive reception during the retailer engagement sessions. There are currently over 200 retailers participating in the program with the onboarding of new members to continue. With a mix of traditional advertising, digital and social media activity and POS merchandise, the program has begun to raise awareness of the new national brand. The collective social media channels are growing, and a strong following is achieving the overarching goals for ABC, which include: • Increase brand awareness of the program • Increase retailer sign-ups to the program • Increase in-store traffic for independent retailers • Increase traffic to the ABC website ABC is looking forward to an exciting 2019 as the National Retail Program leverages on the current successes and continues to explore additional opportunities for collaboration to support independent retailers.
2m
82k
80k
110k
Impressions per month
Media Reach
Facebook followers
website sessions
Winners are grinners Your Local Fruit Shop retailers and their fresh food ambassador Sam Thaiday were delighted to announce the winners of The Crunchy Bunch competition in April. The campaign’s objective was to connect thousands of shoppers with their local fruit and vegetable shops, encouraging consumers of all ages to ensure their seasonal weekly produce is selected from the freshest source: Your Local Fruit Shop! The competition was staged across over 70 participating independent retailers throughout Queensland, with thousands of entrants vying for the top prize: a year’s supply of fresh fruit and vegetables 30 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
directly from their local fruit shop. The winners were drawn on 24 April, with Leanne Rasmussen taking out 12 months’ supply of fresh produce, while another four lucky customers won a three-month supply of their favourite weekly fruit and vegetables. Leanne was thrilled with her big win and is looking forward to continuing to support her local fruit and vegetable shop, Lamberts Fresh Produce in Townsville. Mr Thaiday said he was delighted to be a part of the program once again and is looking forward to getting in-store to meet people who support their local fruit shop.
Rewarding the winner: Leanne Rasmussen from Townsville receives her Crunchy Bunch prize from Luke Classie from Lamberts Fresh Produce.
Bowen Gumlu attracts dignitaries to dinner By Cherry Emerick, Industry Development Officer, Bowen Gumlu Growers Association Winter has arrived and the season’s harvest is well under way with some excellent produce reaching the Brisbane Markets® and the homes of consumers nation-wide. Growers are looking forward to their quality fruit and vegetables reaching the tables of and feeding hungry consumers.
Gala dinner success Early June saw our growers get glamorous and put on their dancing shoes at the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association (BGGA) annual gala dinner. The best that the region had to offer was on the plates of more than 130 guests. This year’s event had an array of distinguished guests including the Consul-Generals of Japan and New Zealand, Federal Minister for Agriculture Bridget McKenzie, State Minister for Agricultural Industry Development Mark Furner, and Federal MP George
Recognising a champion: Queensland Agriculture Minister Mark Furner presents Carl Walker with his #eatqld champion certificate at the Bowen Gumlu Growers gala dinner.
Christenson, as well as local government representatives.
#eatqld During the gala dinner, our own BGGA President Carl Walker was named the first #eatqld Champion. Celebrating ‘A world of flavour from the state of delicious’, the Queensland Government initiative honoured Carl in recognition of his community-minded spirit, working not just for the growers but for the whole community. Carl’s dedication to the Association is noted in the 13 years he has served as President along with his passion to promote our members and their region.
growers drew out their concerns over plastic waste and the new levies. While on a positive note, biosecurity was discussed with resources for the implementation of Farm Biosecurity Plans handed out, signage and foot baths.
Far North Queensland There have been a few kilometres travelled in the past quarter to the stunning Far North Queensland – Tablelands region. Meetings with
Federal Minister for Agriculture, Bridget McKenzie (right) with Whitsundays Regional Council Mayor Andrew Wilcox (centre) and wife Raylene Wilcox (left).
Local growers (from left) Leanne Born from Koorelah Farm, Dale Williams from Euri Gold Farms and Ben Martin from Martos Mangoes.
MC on the night Jess Volker from Prospect Agriculture and Bowen Gumlu Growers Industry Development Officer Cherry Emerick.
Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 31
Industry
Recording industry impact of new horticulture award By Bree Grima, Managing Director, Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers
Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BFVG) congratulates the teams from AUSVEG and PMA A-NZ on a successful Hort Connections conference. It was great to catch up with industry contacts and see the latest advances in technology.
Regional Update With no significant summer rainfall or groundwater recharge in 2019 it’s no surprise to producers in the region that Groundwater Entitlements for the 2019/20 year have been reduced. Many zones throughout the region have been reduced by 20-35% with a few zones now at 40% of their announced entitlement. This may impact on producers’ crop decisions leading into
the new financial year and we will keep a close eye on groundwater recharge as these entitlements can be increased throughout the year.
Advocacy BFVG is working closely with the Queensland Horticulture Council to record industry impacts of the updated Horticulture Award. Already this is being felt in packing sheds and on-farm. Producers are now requiring access to a greater number of workers to ensure the maximum hours worked is not exceeded. This is creating additional burden on producers and capturing this data will assist our advocacy moving forward.
Regional Events With lots of events and workshops in the region there’s a topic for everyone to further their knowledge and understanding. BFVG is acutely aware of the limited time producers have and, where possible, combine workshop topics to ensure grower time is maximised. The recent Ag Forum was a great success where 80+ attendees listened to keynote speakers on topics from blockchain to accessing funding. Attendees then received free entry to AgroTrend 2019 a two-day farming lifestyle expo. We encourage you to come visit the beautiful Bundaberg and Wide Bay Burnett Region to see why we believe it is Queensland’s Food Bowl.
Food safety throughout the supply chain By Gail Woods, General Manager, Brismark
There is nothing better than fresh produce straight from paddock to plate. In a 2010 Legislative Bulletin, the Queensland Government estimated Australia’s food industry delivered over 20 billion meals annually. With some four million tonnes of produce traded through the Australian Central Market system annually, growers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers all need to remain vigilant toward safe food practices. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of safe food handling in restaurants, retail and fast food outlets, where prepared food poses a greater risk of cross-contamination. Correct food handling procedures are highly visible in these environments. Retailers and restaurants are well versed in food handling procedures and work 32 FRESH SOURCE
Winter 2019
to ensure that consumer confidence remains high in food safety. Growers and wholesalers also follow strict Australian food safety standards to help deliver safe, fresh produce in-store. However, these procedures are largely unseen and can sometimes be poorly understood by consumers, as much of the action happens prior to the delivery to the store.
Brismark’s commitment Brismark is committed to ensuring safe food systems remain front of mind for those operating within the Brisbane Produce Market. We provide quality assurance manual development to support various food safety standards as well as QA/food safety information and advice. Since 2001, Brismark has provided FreshTest® here in Brisbane, on
behalf of Fresh Markets Australia. FreshTest® is Australia’s largest and most comprehensive testing program. Chemical residue, microbial and heavy metal testing is undertaken for primary wholesalers and their growers. The tests are confidential and are used for verification of food safety systems. All laboratories used in the FreshTest® program are National Association of Testing Agencies (NATA) accredited. Brismark also provides food safety and quality assurance support and advice for independent retailers participating in the A Better Choice (ABC)/Your Local Fruit Shop (YLFS) Retailer Program. ABC/ YLFS Program retailers and Brismark members are encouraged to contact Business Services Team at Brismark on businessservices@brismark.com.au for more information.
New advocate for Queensland horticulture By David Thomson, CEO, Growcom
In May, Queensland’s peak representative body for horticulture, Growcom appointed Richard Shannon in the position of Manager, Policy and Advocacy. Richard takes over the role from Rachel Mackenzie who departed the company in February. Having grown up in a rich and diverse farming region at Hampton, just north of Toowoomba, Richard is understanding of the challenges faced by many farmers and enters the role of Manger, Policy and Advocacy with great optimism. In addition to his farming background, Richard has previously worked in Canberra, resolving international market access issues for Australian agricultural products, and in Brisbane developing biosecurity policy and managing
emergency responses. Richard also has experience in other areas of government policy, in renewable energy generation and across the education and training portfolio – all of which will prove invaluable to Growcom and its grower members. Richard said it was an exciting time to be coming into the role and he was looking forward to getting his hands dirty. As a priority, Richard will be visiting as many growers as possible around the state over the coming months. In the meantime, if you’d like to reach out to him about a matter of policy, please feel free to email on: rshannon@growcom.com.au or phone Growcom on 07 3620 3844.
New industry advocate: Growcom’s new Manager, Policy and Advocacy, Richard Shannon.
AustSafe merges with Sunsuper Following a successful merge with AustSafe Super in April 2019, Sunsuper is now proud to support Brisbane Markets®. The merger cements the superannuation fund’s position as one of Australia’s largest and fastest-growing funds with one in five Queenslanders now Sunsuper members and $66 billion in funds under management, as at May 2019. Sunsuper’s Chair, Andrew Fraser, said the merger was driven by both funds’ shared values, commitment to rural and regional Australia and drive for better member outcomes. “Like AustSafe Super, Sunsuper has a long heritage of supporting rural and regional areas and we remain committed to the strong foundations AustSafe Super has built in these communities over the last 30 years,” said Mr Fraser. “The merger will deliver many benefits to both AustSafe Super and Sunsuper members, including a combined $10 million per annum in savings.” Through the completed merger, Sunsuper is now well positioned to continue AustSafe Super’s legacy and commitment to rural and regional Australia. “We have also established an Advisory Board made up of AustSafe Super and Sunsuper directors to assist us in honouring our commitment to rural and regional communities across Australia,” Mr Fraser said.
WINNER 2018
WINNER 2018
Continuing in his role as regional manager, Bruce Waltisbuhl is available to help members of Brisbane Markets® to manage their super and plan for their future. Bruce can be contacted on 0400 995 824. To find out more visit sunsuper.com.au or call 13 11 84. Winter 2019 FRESH SOURCE 33
JULY
OCTOBER
Brisbane Produce Market Gala Dinner
Brismark Annual General Meeting
Brisbane, QLD
Brisbane, QLD
31 July – 2 August
18-20 October
The Horticulture Conference
PMA Fresh Summit
Wellington, New Zealand
California, USA
AUGUST
24-26 October
Brisbane Produce Market Forklift Operator of the Year
NOVEMBER
26 July
15 October
Australian National Field Days Borenore, NSW
28 August
Brisbane Produce Market, QLD
SEPTEMBER 4-6 September
11-13 November TROPAG 2019 Brisbane, QLD
13 November
Asia FRUIT LOGISTICA
Brisbane Markets® Annual General Meeting
Hong Kong
Brisbane, QLD
19 September
DECEMBER
Brisbane Produce Market Mango Auction Brisbane Produce Market, QLD
24-26 September
5 December
Brisbane Markets® Supplier Drinks
World Avocado Congress
Brisbane Produce Market, QLD
Medellin, Columbia
12 December
26-27 September World of Drones Congress 2019
Keep it safe in October October is Safe Work Month and Work Cover Queensland is holding a series of Breakfast Forums across the state. Each forum will feature high profile keynote presenters who will discuss a diverse range of topics to provide attendees with new ideas and practical strategies to implement in their workplace. With an extended half day program, attendees will be able to connect and share ideas with other industry professionals. The Breakfast Forums will be held in Rockhampton, Logan, Sunshine Coast, Mackay Coast, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Townsville, Cairns and Brisbane. To find out more and to register for an event near you, visit https://bit.ly/2xrWJAx.
Brisbane Markets® Christmas BBQ Brisbane Produce Market, QLD
Brisbane, QLD
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