INDUSTRY NEWS

New fruit netting regulations in Victoria A new name and a new chapter for Southern Plants

From 1 September 2021, netting used to protect household fruit-trees, vegetable gardens, or other fruiting plants must have a mesh size of 5mm x 5mm or less at full stretch

If you sell or promote the use of netting to protect household fruit or vegetable harvest you will need to be aware of this new mandatory requirement introduced under Victoria’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019.

The regulation applies to both the sale and use of household fruit netting. It does not apply to sale or use of netting in commercial circumstances.

The use of appropriate mesh-sized netting supports a productive harvest while also protecting our vulnerable wildlife from harm. Netting with a large mesh size is more likely to entangle birds, possums or flying foxes.

The Victorian Government have developed a ‘Harvest without Harm’ leaflet that provides information on the new requirements. If your company would like a supply of these to distribute, then please contact animal.welfare@agriculture.vic.gov.auor call 136 186 to request a PDF or hard copy.

Find out more about the new fruit netting regulations at animalwelfare.vic.gov.au/netting

The NGIV member formerly known as Southern Advanced Plants Pty Ltd are now trading as Southern Plants.

Their General Manager, Mark Jackson, explains their decision to rename and rebrand the business.

“We feel that dropping ‘Advanced’ from our name, better represents the greenlife we supply, most of which come in 14cm, 18cm and 20cm, though we do offer a smaller range in 25cm and 30cm.”

They also have a crisp, clean, new website (southernplants.com.au) and a new logo that represents their sustainability practices.

“Sustainability is really important to us, and we want to share that story with the industry. Our plants are sustainably grown with natural sunlight and heat, recycled water, composted plantation bark potting mix and slow-release fertiliser. All our plants are supplied in Australian made pots and labels made from recycled materials. And our waste reduction efforts are significant.”

You can find out more about their approach to sustainability at southernplants.com.au/sustainability

Next year is the 75th anniversary of the original horticultural business set up by Mark’s grandfather and now is the perfect time to rename, rebrand and retell their story.

“I‘m really excited about the future and what is a new chapter as Southern Plants, as we strengthen old and new customer relationships,” said Mark.

Southern Plants is one of the largest wholesale production nurseries in Victoria, situated on 92 acres in Dromana. They mainly supply the Retail Market and Landscape Industry with an emphasis on high quality plants in large batches. From native’s, drought tolerant, hedging to seasonal colour plants.

NGIV would like to wish Southern Plants all the best on their journey and commend them on their approach to sustainability.