WA Grower Magazine Autumn 2022

VOL. 57 NO 1. AUTUMN 2022

wa

grower WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

Technology opens up new markets

New WHS laws:

Growers need to get more serious about safety

This issue of the WA Grower is brought to you by vegetablesWA together with: • • • • •

APC — Vegetable Producers Committee Potato Growers Association Pomewest WA Citrus Stonefruit WA

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YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

asol

98

74

CEO’s Report

Seasol President’s Report

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Red dwarf honey bee detection

46

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Testing requirements

48

Stonefruit Season Launch

51

Consumers who taste first buy more 82

6

ot growth✓ Root growth Technology opens up new markets

7

vegetablesWA trip to Carnarvon ess on protection ✓ Stress protection

9

WA POTATOES

STONEFRUIT WA

79 80

YOUR BUSINESS

85

Chief Executive Officer’s Report

52

Chair’s Report

53

Who is your support team?

86

11

Farm biosecurity

54

werfish Powerfish Introducing The Carbon Series

What’s your COVID-19 plan?

88

12

Potatoes and the planet

57

Sexual harassment policies

90

New WHS laws acids for oteins, acidsamino for✓ Proteins, acids for amino Permits & plant soil & plant

14

World Potato Congress

58

Financial and business reviews

92

The Bendotti Family

60

New pay slip obligations for WA

95

Loaded baked potato soup recipe

62

YOUR PRODUCTION

ural of nutrition source ✓ of Natural nutrition source of nutrition TOOL TIME Integrated pest management

114 17 18

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POMEWEST

YOUR HEALTH

97

63

Decision making under pressure

98

64

Mental health service extended

100

Overcoming Omicron

66

How to stick to your goals

101

Future Orchards Walk

68

My health and wellbeing

102

Apple Industry Notice

70

Season update ®

Production around the state

26

Protecting WA’s plant industries

30

Melons Australia

33

From the industry

Liriomyza flies in-focus

35

A new national biosecurity program 73

Polyphagousshot-hole borer

40

WA citrus fruit excels in taste

74

Weed and pest management

44

How to get your fruit tested

76

Estimating fruit yield?

77

WA CITRUS

YOUR MARKET

103

71

A digital presence

104

72

Digital platforms

106

VIETNAMESE TRANSLATIONS

108

SUPPLIER GUIDE

120

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022 a better way toagrow better way to growa better way to grow

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VOL. 57 NO 1. AUTUMN 2022

WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

YOUR CONTACTS

contacts vegetablesWA

Management Committee

702–704 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005 t: (08) 9486 7515 e: office@vegetableswa.com.au

President Dan Kuzmicich

Acting Chief Executive Officer Manus Stockdale m: 0448 897 652 e: manus.stockdale@vegetableswa.com.au Operations Manager Karen Raybould t: (08) 9486 7515 e: karen.raybould@vegetableswa.com.au COVER IMAGE: DDLS provides plant testing diagnostic services to help growers minimise and manage pest and disease risks. See ‘Another tool in your integrated pest management toolbox’ page 18.

Published by vegetablesWA This issue of the WA Grower is brought to you by: • vegetablesWA • APC — Vegetable Producers Committee • Potato Growers Association • Pomewest • WA Citrus • Stonefruit WA

Admin, Marketing & Sales Benjamin Hamilton t: (08) 9486 7515 e. ben.hamilton@vegetableswa.com.au Regional Development Officer Truyen Vo m: 0457 457 559 e: truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au Regional Development Officer Michael Bartholomew m: 0427 373 037 e: michael.bartholomew@vegetableswa.com.au Building Horticulture Business Capacity Program Lead Bryn Edwards m: 0417 409 821 e: bryn.edwards@vegetableswa.com.au Quality Assurance Coordinator Joel Dinsdale m: 0417 857 675 e: joel.dinsdale@vegetableswa.com.au Industrial Relations Consultant Stephen Farrell m: 0455 833 352 e: stephen.farrell@vegetableswa.com.au Life Members

A.J. Anderson*, D.J. Arbuckle, J. Arbuckle Snr*, J.H. Arbuckle* (M.B.E.J.P), H.R. Ashby*, S. Calameri, M. Dobra, A. Harris*, A. Ingrilli, G. Kiriros*, R.G. Leach*, F. Natoli, S. Sawle*, R.M. Schultz, C.P. Stevens, W.R. Stevens* (M.B.E.J.P) and J. Turley. * Deceased © 2022 All articles and other material published in this magazine is vegetablesWA copyright (unless otherwise stated) and may not be reproduced in part or full without the written permission of the authors and publisher.

DISCLAIMER: vegetablesWA make no representations and expressly disclaims all warranties (to the extent permitted by law) about the accuracy, completeness, or currency of information in WA Grower. Reliance on any information provided by vegetablesWA is entirely at your own risk. vegetablesWA is not responsible for, and will not be liable for, any loss, damage, claim, expense, cost (including legal costs) or other liability arising in any way, including from any vegetablesWA or other person’s negligence or otherwise from your use or non-use of WA Grower, or from reliance on information contained in the material or that vegetablesWA provide to you by any other means.

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m: 0408 910 761

Carnarvon

Vice President Maurice Grubiša m: 0413 050 182 Metro North Committee Renae Adams

m: 0408 570 181

Paul Glavocich

m: 0413 922 287 Metro South

Manjimup

Michael Grubiša m: 0419 195 159 Metro North Peter Ivankovich m: 0428 919 211

Myalup

Michael Le

m: 0417 962 427 Metro North

Anthony Lieu

m: 0401 558 886 Metro North

Paul Shain

m: 0419 041 045

Carnarvon

APC VPC Committee Chair Peter Ivankovich Vice Chair Lisa Tana Members Joyce Babun Dan Kuzmicich Bevan Eatts Calogero (Charlie) Blogna Michael Le APC Manager Ingrid Behr t: (08) 9368 3127 e: APCManager@dpird.wa.gov.au

Advertising For information on WA Grower advertising rates and sizing, please email: comms@vegetableswa.com.au

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

your

industry association

Your industry association

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YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

vegetablesWA

CEO’s Report

A

BY MANUS STOCKDALE ACTING CEO, VEGETABLESWA

s Western Australia prepares for the opening of the state and international borders and the inevitable increase in COVID-19 cases, vegetablesWA is working hard to assist our grower members to have measures in place to keep their businesses operating.

f THE state government plans to eliminate certain plastic packaging from retail vegetables and other produce.

We welcome the announcement of the reopening of the state and look forward to easier movements of produce, inputs and workers across Australia. vegetablesWA has working with industry and the WA Government to learn from the rest of Australia’s experiences, so we are best prepared for the COVID-19 situation. Definitions of close contacts, access to rapid antigen tests and isolation times are key questions that we have been seeking clarity about on behalf of industry.

Michael Bartholomew, vegetablesWA’s new Regional Development Officer, has commenced the delivery of the WA components of the Hort Innovationfunded VegNET 3.0 project and brings new knowledge and enthusiasm to the project. Michael will work with our accomplished extension officer Truyen Vo to gain experience and we look forward to him developing and providing valuable assistance to the WA vegetable industry.

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I have continued to focus on increasing vegetablesWA’s engagement with members in the first part of 2022 with myself and other members of the team meeting and working with growers in the Labour and rising input Carnarvon, Geraldton, costs continue to be key Gingin, Carabooda and topics of discussion.

Myalup areas.

The Building Horticulture Business Capacity project, which builds on the success of the Vegetable Benchmarking project, is up and running with more than 20 vegetable growers already participating.

The project — funded by the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the Agricultural Produce Commission and Hort Innovation — has been expanded to include other WA horticulture industries, with the pome industry the first to sign up. vegetablesWA is working with Planfarm to deliver the project, which connect horticultural businesses with professional business analysis and advice.

Labour and rising input costs continue to be key topics of discussion across the state with additional region issues with changes to water licensing and availability hot topics for others.

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Seeking favourable outcomes on water allocation for our members.

f VEGETABLESWA has attended regular meetings with growers in the region regarding the Gnangara Water Allocation Plan.

vegetablesWA is committed to representing the interests of WA growers in the local and national forums that we attend and ensuring that government and industry decision makers are aware of the sector’s needs and concerns.

Our recent representation activities have included: • North Wanneroo Water Allocation — vegetablesWA has attended regular meetings with growers in the region regarding the Gnangara Water Allocation Plan. We have engaged with the Water Minister, other horticultural industry associations and hydrological experts to seek favourable outcomes for our members.

• Biosecurity — vegetablesWA has worked with DPIRD to advocate for the maintenance of movement restrictions for horticultural produce that may introduce new pests to WA such as serpentine leaf minor.

• WA Plan on Plastics — vegetablesWA has raised industries concerns about the impact of the state government’s plan to eliminate certain plastic packaging from retail vegetables and other produce. We have secured a commitment from DWER to establish an agricultural working group to inform the development and implementation of the plastics regulations.

As 2022 gets underway, vegetablesWA will be developing a strategic direction that will involve a range of engagement with our grower members and stakeholders.

We will be sending out a survey through our communications over the coming weeks, so be sure to have your say about the services and priorities that you feel vegetablesWA should focus on.

MORE INFORMATION Manus Stockdale, phone 0448 897 652 or manus.stockdale@vegetableswa.com.au

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YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

vegetablesWA

President’s Report

S

BY DAN KUZMICICH PRESIDENT, VEGETABLESWA

ummer is certainly here and has hit us with a vengeance.

Greetings to growers and industry members. I trust everyone enjoyed their Christmas Break and New Year celebrations.

Summer has certainly brought in some very hot weather across the state. As I am writing this report, the forecast for the next six days is hovering around 40ºC in Carnarvon, with similar conditions in the Metro and South-West regions as well.

Many of the growers in my region are busy with ‘cleanup’ land preparation activities and other groundwork, to get ready for the seedlings to arrive for the new season plantings.

I am sure that you are all aware of the increasing input costs this year — fertilisers, freight and labour are just a few to mention, with prices that have gone through the roof. This is a very real issue that many growers around the state are fully aware of.

Carnarvon Growers Association (CGA) have stepped up to the plate by spending more than $2 million on stock to ensure that growers not only have access to supply, but due to the early purchase, can keep costs down, allowing growers to have a decent start to the year ahead.

It is important to evaluate how we can find efficiencies in our operations and manage the impact of this situation. This will help us to understand our viability WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

and find strategies to manage these very demanding conditions. To that end, vegetablesWA is still recruiting participants for the Building Horticulture Business Capacity program, which is available to all the vegetable and pome growers. There are currently only eight spots available to vegetable growers, and five for pome growers in the project.

You may find significant value by being involved. Have a chat with Bryn Edwards about how you can benefit and use some real-time data to make good decisions for your business. vegetablesWA has also been facilitating the Human Resources, Industrial Relations (HR/IR) and Business Extension, which is initiated and funded by the Agricultural Produce Commission — Vegetable Producers Committee (APC VPC). This project will end in June this year. You can find a lot of support about managing employees on the vegetablesWA website, with useful material to access including templates and details about HR/IR matters for businesses. As Molly Meldrum would say: ‘do yourself a favour and have a look.’ This is valuable information. If you need more details, feel free to contact vegetablesWA HR/IR consultant Stephen Farrell on 0455 833 352. There is no cost for this service.

issue particularly managing the current WA COVID-19 outbreak with Omicron.

It is the general view that the new AG Visa will further assist with the labour issues we are facing; we just need it to be operational. The Federal and State Governments need to layout a clear proposal on how the government will encourage other countries to engage with this new AG visa. So far, it seems, only one country, Indonesia, is in talks with the Australian Government. For me, the wheels are turning too slowly, and some urgency needs to be applied to give industry the confidence that AG Visa will be part of the solution.

Collaboration is key.

Some good news is that the prices for vegetables across the board appear to remain quite respectable with reading the recent Perth Market price reports.

As growers in the Perth region and Southwest regions are in full flight with harvesting, labour continues to be an

In the meantime, collaboration is key. It is pleasing to see that some growers are working together to utilise the limited workforce in Carnarvon and has been a common talking point in many conversations amongst us in recent times.

On finishing this report, I have just heard that a two-metre river is coming today, which is always good news for us living and working in the Gascoyne.

I wish everyone every success with their harvest periods this year. As always, if you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact vegetablesWA for assistance.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Dan Kuzmicich on 0408 910 761 or damir.kuzmicich@bigpond.com

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Technology opens up new markets Welcome to

vegetablesdirect

BY MANUS STOCKDALE ACTING CEO, VEGETABLESWA

A search engine that helps you to find new suppliers and be found by new buyers.

f OUR vision for the app is to make growers more visible to buyers across the globe.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

W

herever and whenever there have been unlimited demands met with scarce resources, there have been marketplaces.

When the human race was concentrated around clusters of communities, those marketplaces were physical, with the market represented by a physical space, and prices were naturally regulated by proximity — if I sold fruit amongst five other fruit sellers, there was a natural commercial pressure to provide a minimum level of quality and a competitive price.

As global markets have grown, they have become more complex, with buyers and sellers finding it difficult to find each other, never mind competitively setting prices or conform to any idea of minimum quality. Brokers have been one of the solutions that have arisen to this market dislocation. These brokers knew what buyers wanted and what sellers could produce and earned a margin for matching the two.

Key messages • Technology has made marketplaces more accessible • Technology has enabled this accessibility • vegetablesdirect is such a technology.

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risk and ideas, but just millions rather than billions. This is a dangerous idea not just to the likes of Google and Facebook, but to any intermediary like banks — in fact any individual or business that leverages the hard work of others without making a valuable contribution to the eventual outcome.

Then came the internet. From book publishing to advertising, the internet empowered individuals through platforms which enabled buyers and sellers to easily find each other again.

That did not remove the need for brokers entirely, but certainly it no longer costs 40 per cent to remit money from Dubai to Dhaka. That is because the internet does not solve everything.

There is still a role for a broker who helps to build a business by uncovering new business to a grower who would have never come across the buyer by themselves.

However, increasingly that is ‘a’ channel rather than ‘the’ channel.

Back in October, we said vegetablesWA was working on an app with a Sydneybased start-up, Maven Marketplaces.

Last month, we signed a joint venture under which we will be launching a mobile app called vegetablesdirect.

Our vision for the app is to make growers more visible to buyers across the globe — a marketplace with the modern twist that technology can deliver.

A search engine that helps you to find new suppliers and be found by new buyers. A free channel to advertise distressed product.

Artificial intelligence that can predict what the price for apples will be next Wednesday or August next year.

And those are just the ideas we have had so far.

A marketplace with the modern twist that technology can deliver.

In the technology world, there has been a realisation that the internet seems to have moved from its initial ‘peer-to-peer’ structure to something much more monopolistic, where a few platforms like Google, Facebook and Amazon now control most of the user time and resources, with a few individuals making billions of dollars from our searches and photos. The users doing all the hard work have been separated from shareholders who have made all the money.

As a result, there is an emerging iteration of the internet known as Web3, based on the idea that users should be rewarded for their participation with ownership and, therefore, a share of the financial upside.

That is not to say that entrepreneurs should not be fairly rewarded for their

We have used a highly-flexible technology, which means we can quickly implement new features, so we are hoping you tell us what it is you want the app to do, because the joint venture means you participate in the upside.

MORE INFORMATION We are gradually rolling the app out to growers so we can iron out the problems as we go, but if you would like to be an early user, feel free to reach out at help@vegetablesdirect.com.au

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f VEGETABLESWA RDO presenting on weather patterns and crop pest management

vegetablesWA trip to Carnarvon

I

BY BENJAMIN HAMILTON ADMINISTRATION, MARKETING & SALES, VEGETABLESWA

n mid-February, part of the vegetablesWA team headed up North to deliver some workshops on COVID-19 business continuity planning, weather information for crop pest management and updates on the AG visa.

Over the week, the vegetablesWA team held three workshops in multiple languages in the Geraldton and Carnarvon regions. The team visited a number of growers in the area to give them individual information on issues they might be facing and how best to manage them.

vegetablesWA Acting CEO Manus Stockdale said it was excellent to see a positive uptake of the workshops, particularly those delivered in Vietnamese.

Supplying information on issues growers might be facing and how best to manage them.

vegetablesWA aims to provide relevant and useful information to growers that benefit their businesses.

Further, it was excellent to see good engagement with the Human Resources and Industrial Relations (HR/IR) project.

The HR/IR project aims to provide growers with one-on-one human resources assistance, which will be paramount as the new AG Visa will require growers to demonstrate that they have suitable HR/IR policies under the approved employer system.

“It was fantastic to see good attendance for the three workshops we held in Geraldton and Carnarvon. It’s great to see growers coming to vegetablesWA for information and engaging with the services we provide,” Manus said.

f COVID-19 business continuity planning materials.

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YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

“We provided key information about the Human Resources and Industrial Relations project, and it was excellent to see growers engaging with our consultant Stephen Farrell, as he will be able to assist them with these issues and help them better prepare for the arrival of the AG Visa and other government and supply chain requirements.” vegetablesWA Regional Development Officer Truyen Vo, gave informative presentations about the predicted weather patterns for the coming season, noting that there will be a forecast of excess rainfall from March to May due to the mature La Niña system in the Pacific Ocean. If this forecast comes to fruition, we will see higher minimum and maximum temperatures, which have the potential to increase pests and disease levels in crops. He recommended growers to take the appropriate precautions to manage the increased biosecurity risks.

This was the first visit to Carnarvon for Regional Development Officer Michael Bartholomew, which served as an excellent opportunity for him to gain a better understanding of the northern production regions and build networks with growers. Michael will be delivering on the VegNET 3.0 project and has more visits to Carnarvon and Geraldton planned in the future.

Michael said he was keen to have continued engagement with growers in Carnarvon.

much risk to their businesses as they can. I am looking forward to returning to Carnarvon and following up on the topics we covered in the workshops and better understanding the challenges in the region and how vegetablesWA can assist members,” Michael said.

Excess rainfall from March to May forecast due to the mature La Niña system in the Pacific Ocean.

It was reassuring for him that several growers requested the COVID-19 biosecurity farm signs vegetablesWA has available and that many growers are intending to implement COVID-19 risk management practices onto their farms.

Regional Development Officer, Truyen Vo, will continue the workshop tour in North Perth and southern regions throughout February and March.

MORE INFORMATION If you have any queries regarding the AG Visa, the COVID-19 business continuity planning, or weather information for crop pest management, do not hesitate to contact vegetablesWA on (08) 9486 7515.

“It was positive to see growers take the COVID-19 advice seriously and take the first steps in ensuring they mitigate as

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

YOUR PRODUCTION

your

production Your production WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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YOUR PRODUCTION

Introducing

THE CARBON SERIES for Aussie vegetable growers T

BY DIMI KYRIAKOU AND CARL LARSEN RMCG

he Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection (ICP) project works with growers to put soil management and plant health research into practice.

To kick off 2022, the Soil Wealth ICP team has developed the Carbon Series to provide a high-level overview of carbon farming in Australia and how it can apply to vegetable growers, particularly through improved soil carbon management practices. Soil Wealth ICP Phase 2 (VG16078) is a strategic levy investment under the Hort Innovation Vegetable Fund.

Phrases such as ‘carbon neutral,’ ‘carbon accounting,’ ‘soil carbon sequestration’ and ‘carbon emissions reduction’ are becoming increasingly common when policymakers talk about Australian agriculture. These terms can be summarised under the heading of ‘carbon farming.’

Carbon farming in Australia is constantly changing.

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Carbon farming can range from a single change in land management — such as introducing no-till cultivation, cover crops or changing grazing management — to a whole-of-farm integrated plan which maximises carbon capture and reduces emissions.

Carbon farming can offer landholders financial incentives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Generally, it refers to a deliberate set of agricultural practices or land uses to increase carbon stored in the soil and vegetation (sequestration), and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock, soil, or vegetation (avoidance).

Carbon farming can offer landholders financial incentives to reduce greenhouse gas

f CARBON farming refers to a deliberate set of agricultural practices or land uses to increase carbon stored in the soil and vegetation, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

emissions within their production system or sequester carbon, in addition to achieving economic and environmental co-benefits through increased productivity and sustainability.

The good news is that vegetable growers can build on their existing production processes, particularly around improving soil health, to make the transition to carbon farming. Growers should consider the management of carbon in their growing operations not only to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but to increase productivity through sustainable soil management practices.

YOUR PRODUCTION

Carbon farming involves practices that: • Improve the rate at which carbon dioxide (CO2) is removed from the atmosphere and converted to plant material and/or soil organic matter • Reduce greenhouse gas emissions, measured as CO2 equivalents, from agriculture.

About The Carbon Series A new four-part Carbon Series from the Soil Wealth ICP project breaks down the practicalities of carbon farming for vegetable growers and looks more closely at soil carbon management. It provides links to further information and project resources on the following topics: • Part 1: Carbon farming and its relevance to Australian vegetable growers • Part 2: Soil carbon and carbon sequestration • Part 3: Carbon emissions in vegetable production • Part 4: Carbon accounting and the Emissions Reduction Fund.

These articles can be accessed at soilwealth.com.au/resources/globalscan-and-reviews You can also tune into a podcast where the team speaks to Mulgowie Farming Company and Carbon Friendly about their journey to develop carbon neutral sweet corn in Queensland. Access the podcast here: soilwealth.com.au/ resources/podcasts/the-carbon-seriesdeveloping-carbon-neutral-sweet-corn/ To wrap up the series you can watch the webinar recording on carbon management on vegetable

farms — emissions, sequestration and beyond: soilwealth.com.au/ resources/webinar-recordings/carbonmanagement-on-vegetable-farmsemissions-sequestration-and-beyond/

Food for thought While carbon farming is a possible option for many Australian vegetable growers, the practicalities of implementing this approach on-farm will depend on the individual circumstances of each business and its goals.

Managing soil carbon — a key player in overall soil health — can increase productivity and reduce the cost of production with the added benefit of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

There may also be marketing benefits for a business and the creation of a more resilient farm from a climate and consumer perspective.

While there may not always be direct financial benefits from reducing greenhouse gas emissions and carbon sequestration, there can be co-benefits around increased resilience and sustainability including increased biodiversity and water use efficiency, and reduced waste, pesticide, and fertiliser use.

To make an informed decision about carbon farming, vegetable growers will need to consider their individual business goals and production circumstances — from the scale of the business to opportunity costs of changing farming practices — and keep on top of changes in the sector as they arise.

The series breaks down the practicalities of carbon farming for vegetable growers.

New focus topics underway for Soil Wealth ICP in 2022!

The Soil Wealth ICP team is in full swing tackling the focus topics for the project in 2022.

The team is continuing to dig into the complex world of soil biology and how it relates to the entire farming system, including its relationship with integrated crop management practices, soil-borne diseases, irrigation, pest management and nutrition management.

The project is also focusing on integrated pest management (IPM) both in the field and in protected cropping systems.

Growers are being taken back to basics to explain soil health's role in IPM, discussing the management of chemicals to minimise resistance and exploring supply chain requirements including tolerance levels for the presence of beneficial insects.

You can find all new events, resources and demo site information which align with these areas of importance to vegetable growers and the wider industry at soilwealth.com.au MORE INFORMATION For more information, please contact project leaders Dr Gordon Rogers on (02) 8627 1040 or gordon@ahr.com.au and Dr Anne-Maree Boland on (03) 9882 2670 or anne-mareeb@rmcg.com.au.

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and funds from the Australian Government.

Project Number: VG16078 For more information on the fund and strategic levy investment visit horticulture.com.au

f THE four-part Carbon Series breaks down the practicalities of carbon farming for vegetable growers and looks more closely at soil carbon management.

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YOUR PRODUCTION

New WHS laws

f AS an industry, agriculture has always ranked as one of the most dangerous.

Farm businesses must get serious about managing workplace health and safety

BY TYSON FRY FARM BUSINESS CONSULTANT, PLANFARM

N

As an industry, agriculture has always ew Work Health and ranked as one of the most dangerous.

Safety (WHS) laws Participants are constantly exposed that came into effect to the risks that come with working outside, with animals, with chemicals, in January 2022 have been with heavy machinery, at heights well publicised with the and in confined spaces. focus especially on the In many instances, those Agricultural workers working in agriculture are inclusion of industrial are constantly exposed also working alone. manslaughter as to risks.

It is vital that those an offence.

On close inspection, it becomes apparent that the risk of being charged as such, is very low. However, the risk of being charged for a lesser offence is very real if a business does not proactively manage WHS. Thus, if you are the owner of a farm business, you’d better take this seriously and to do so you will most probably need help from an expert!

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

working in agriculture are equipped with the skills to carry out their work safely.

This requires employers to have developed and implemented appropriate workplace health and safety policies and procedures. This is especially important in an environment where the laws governing workplace health and safety are becoming stronger.

The Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WHS Act) was passed by Western Australian Parliament in November 2020. Implemented in January 2022, this legislation consolidates workplace health and safety under a single Act, bringing WA largely in line with laws already in place for other states and territories.

This legislation provides a framework to further protect the health, safety and welfare of workers in WA, while providing more clarity for modern employment relationships such as contractors and casual employees, alongside traditional employer employee relationships.

WorkSafe will continue to act as an independent authority to administer the WHS Act, with the WorkSafe Commissioner reporting directly to the Minister for Industrial Relations.

YOUR PRODUCTION

Protecting the health, safety and welfare of workers in WA.

f IN many instances, those working in agriculture are also working alone.

The Act has made several significant changes that will have real implications for agricultural businesses. For example; 1 The definition of an employer has changed: • Under the current Act, an employer is defined as a person that employs an employee under a contract of employment.

• Under the new WHS Act, there are now two new definitions to consider.

— Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU): includes corporations, associations, partnerships, sole traders that employ people to carry out work.

— Officer: includes a person that makes or participates in making key decisions that affect the business or undertaking. A CEO, CFO or

Farm Manager are examples of an Officer.

2 The definition of an employee has changed: • Under the current Act, an employee is defined as a person by whom work is done under a contract of employment.

• Under the new WHS Act, an employee is now referred to as a worker.

• A worker is defined as a person who carries out work for a PCBU and includes, but is not limited to, employees, contractors, subcontractors, apprentices, and volunteers.

• It is important to recognise that the expanded definition of a worker will have implications for livestock producers, specifically in relation to the use of shearing contractors or vets.

3 Expanded duty of care requirements for a PCBU and an Officer: The duty of care requirements for a PCBU and an Officer have been expanded under the new WHS Act. There is also an expectation that due diligence has been conducted and reasonable steps have been taken to: • Keep up-to-date knowledge on work health and safety matters.

• Understand the operations of the business and associated hazards and risks.

• Ensure resources are available to eliminate or minimise risks.

• Ensure there are processes to receive and consider information about work-related incidents, hazards and risks, and to then respond.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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YOUR PRODUCTION

Category 2: The PCBU or Officer fails to comply with their health and safety duty and the failure exposes the worker to a risk of death, injury or harm.

• Maximum penalty: $350,000 fine for a company officer, $170,000 for any other person, or $1,800,000 for a company.

Category 1: The PCBU or Officer fails to comply with their health and safety duty.

• Maximum penalty: $120,000 fine for a company officer, $55,000 for any other person, or $570,000 for a company.

• Ensure there are processes for complying with WHS duties and obligations.

• Verify the use of resources and processes.

4 Insurance will no longer cover fines and penalties: • Insurance can still cover legal fees; however, insurance will not cover penalties or fines for companies, PCBUs or Officers under the new WHS Act. 5 Industrial Manslaughter has been included as an offence: • The offence of Industrial Manslaughter will apply to PCBU’s and their Officers where a failure to comply with a WHS duty causes a death.

• The prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that the person knew their conduct was likely to cause the death of, or serious harm to, an individual and they acted in disregard of that likelihood.

• The maximum penalty for Industrial Manslaughter is $10 million for a body corporate, and $5 million and 20-years jail for an individual.

• In the highly-publicised 2020 case where a worker died while building a shed on an Esperance farm, the director of the shed building company was charged with Gross Negligence under

16

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

the current Act. The director was found guilty and received an 8-month jail term, with an additional 18 months suspended.

His company was also fined $605,000.

• It is likely that under the new WHS Act, the director would have been prosecuted for Industrial Manslaughter, and the penalty would have been even more severe.

What should businesses do?

For farm businesses that already apply a best practice approach to managing health and safety (there aren’t that many of these), it is unlikely that a radical overhaul will be required. However, if you haven’t already, it’s important to review your existing work health and safety policies and procedures to ensure they are appropriate. It is also important that senior management are aware of their responsibilities and have received appropriate training.

Keep up-to-date knowledge on work health and safety matters.

Given the extremely high bar set by the new WHS Act when it comes to Industrial Manslaughter, it is not an offence that farm businesses should focus too closely on. A PCBU or Officer will only be sentenced with Industrial Manslaughter if it can be proven that they knew their conduct was likely to cause death or serious harm, and then disregarded that risk.

Lesser offence categories There are three lesser offence categories that businesses need to be aware of given they still come with large fines and the risk of jail time.

Category 3: The PCBU or Officer fails to comply with the health and safety duty and the failure causes death or serious harm.

• Maximum penalty: 5 years imprisonment and a $680,00 fine for a person, or a fine of $3,500,000 for a company.

There are a few organisations that offer support to businesses when it comes to work health and safety.

Please discuss these options with a member of the Planfarm team who will point you in the right direction.

Ultimately, businesses that are proactive in this space will be much better placed to manage the risks of farming in WA under the new legislation.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Tyson Fry, Farm Business Consultant, on 0437 207 725 or go to Planfarm.com.au

TOOL TIME

TOOL

TIME

your

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TOOL TIME

f DDLS provides plant testing diagnostic services to help growers minimise and manage pest and disease risks.

Another tool in your integrated pest management toolbox

BY MICHAEL BARTHOLOMEW | REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

TOOL

WHAT DOES IT DO

WHO WOULD USE IT

THE COST

MORE INFORMATION

DPIRD DIAGNOSTIC LABORATORY SERVICE

PLANT, SOIL AND ANIMAL DISEASE DIAGNOSIS

GROWERS

VARIES DEPENDING ON THE TEST PRICING AVAILABLE ON WEBSITE

AGRIC.WA.GOV.AU/BACTERIA/ DDLS-PLANT-PATHOLOGYSERVICES

FOLLOWING ON FROM our Spring 2021 edition of WA Grower, which featured an article about the useful MyPestGuide® Reporter app, with this edition of Tool Time we will cover another useful, yet lesser-known tool at growers’ disposal.

DPIRD’s Diagnostics and Laboratory Service The acceleration of the ever-evolving nature of Australian agriculture over the past couple of decades has meant that informed decision making is more of a priority than it has ever been. The industry seems to be facing new threats on a regular basis, which can often be difficult to keep track of, and prioritise those most relevant to you and your business. Pest and disease management

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

has always been an important aspect of farm management, given the unpredictable and detrimental impacts it can have on a business.

The list of pests and diseases seemingly keeps getting bigger and bigger, particularly in a state like Western Australia, where we have been fortunate enough to have comparatively far less than the rest of Australia and the world. As a result, over time the complexity of managing this challenge will become greater than it has ever been.

value in a business’s pest and disease management plan is the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Diagnostics and Laboratory Service (DDLS).

As part of a well-structured IPM plan, correct pathogen or invertebrate identification is vital. By knowing what is causing the problem and then understanding the timing and onset of pathogen or insect activity, appropriate management strategies can be implemented.

Accurate identification of plant pathogens and invertebrate pests is done through laboratory testing.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a ‘toolbox’ rather than a fix-all solution.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a ‘toolbox’ rather than a fix-all solution.

As such, a service that could hold great

TOOL TIME

Samples submitted to DDLS are tested and the results on the identification of the pest or pathogen can pair with qualitative, on-farm decision making, where identification of disease onset and development may have initially been done based on gut feeling alone.

Testing is also an important tool for monitoring your operation for signs of exotic pests and disease. Keeping you and your business on the forefront of intelligent decision making, while protecting the safety and integrity of the industry.

Potential uses may include: • Testing seed that may have been obtained from a new supplier for viral, bacterial or fungal diseases • Diagnosing the cause of common symptoms such as necrosis, mottling or yellowing of leaves • Detection of unobservable soil pathogens, and • Certification, accreditation, and audit for various quality assurance schemes.

Early diagnosis can assist in managing the problem. A key aspect of IPM is proactive decision making, rather

than reactive decision making, where the latter generally means that the damage is already done, and the bandaid fixes only further contribute to the costly losses.

The DDLS can provide:

This follows closely the theory of the Economic Threshold (ET) and Economic Injury Level (EIL), where testing utilising the DDLS may predict the required timings of control methods based on disease prevalence.

• Plant virus identification

On-farm biosecurity is a preventative measure that can often be overlooked when allocating resources, as the benefit from holding good biosecurity measures is not often immediately realised.

The DDLS’s experienced team assists clients with on-farm decision-making to improve the productivity, quality, and marketability of crops through correct disease diagnosis and pest identification.

Clients span the horticulture sector, including fruit, vegetables, ornamentals, nursery plants, amenity horticulture, turf, and soil. Services extend across plant and animal pathology, seed testing and certification, entomology and the department’s Pest and Disease Information Service.

• Routine plant disease diagnosis in plants, potting mix, soil, and water • Nematode analysis of roots and soils for horticulture and broadacre crops • Specific disease testing for seed crops to meet export requirements, and • Plant pathogen testing to fulfil nursery accreditation and export requirements.

Following disease diagnosis or pest identification provided by DDLS, clients can use this information to determine best practice pest and disease control and reduce the use of incorrect or unnecessary chemicals.

The DDLS is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. It is closed on public holidays. DDLS is a fee-for service unit.

MORE INFORMATION For more information visit agric.wa.gov.au/ dpird-diagnostic-laboratory-services-ddls or email ddls@agric.wa.gov.au or telephone (08) 9368 3351.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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TOOL TIME

Useful tools to help you during the COVID-19 pandemic

BY BENJAMIN HAMILTON | ADMINISTRATION, MARKETING & SALES, VEGETABLESWA

TOOL

RAPID ANTIGEN TEST, SAFEWA APP

WHAT DOES IT DO

A QUICK TEST TO CHECK FOR COVID-19, COVID-19 CONTACT REGISTRATION SYSTEM

WHO WOULD USE IT

GROWERS, EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES

THE COST

$10–$20, FREE

MORE INFORMATION

www.wa.gov.au/government/ covid-19-coronavirus/covid-19coronavirus-rapid-antigen-tests www.wa.gov.au/organisation/ government-of-westernaustralia/servicewa-mobile-app

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

NOW THAT THE WA border is open and COVID-19 cases continue to rise, it is crucial to minimise risks to business continuity. The following outlines how Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) and the ServiceWA app can be used by growers.

Rapid Antigen Test A RAT is a test for COVID-19 that can be self administered. It will provide a user's COVID-19 result within 15–30 minutes. The tests have a results panel, where after either producing saliva or undertaking a nasal swab, two lines will appear (in varying shades) if you are positive for COVID-19. If the user is positive, they will need to self-isolate as per State Government requirements.

There are two types of RAT — a saliva test or a nasal swab. The test kits have similar contents; each test kit will have a test device, a spit funnel or nasal swab, a test tube with a dropper cap to collect the samples, buffer (a chemical solution that extracts the virus from the samples) and instructions for use. There are some

great YouTube videos available with step-by-step guides for using each type of RAT. RATs are widely available now at supermarkets, pharmacies or other selected stores. The cost will vary depending on whether it is a single purchase (a rough cost of $10–$20), or if purchased in bulk (the price is closer to $9–$12 per unit).

Growers should consider if it is costeffective to supply RATs for their workers to test themselves if they are showing COVID-19 symptoms before their shift.

It is important to note that multiple RATs will need to be used during a worker’s isolation period, and for critical workers under the critical worker furlough system, it is a requirement for employers to supply the RATs. The tests allow your workers to isolate themselves if they test positive to COVID-19 without going into the community or to work. This gives

f RATS are widely available now at supermarkets, pharmacies or other selected stores.

TOOL TIME

 THERE are some great YouTube videos available with step-by-step guides for using each type of RAT.

growers valuable information and foresight to change business operations without significant interruptions.

RATs for sale in Australia must be approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The TGAs performance requirements for COVID-19 RATs are internationally aligned with technical specifications published by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Commission. This includes a clinical sensitivity of at least 80 per cent (for specimens collected within seven days of symptom onset) and a clinical specificity of at least 98 per cent. You can find a list of approved RATs, including the clinical sensitivity of each test, on the TGA website, tga.gov. au/covid-19-rapid-antigenself-tests-are-approvedaustralia

The registration form can be accessed through the WA Government website, wa.gov.au/government/announcements/ mandatory-registration-of-positiverapid-antigen-tests#registeringpositive-results-online

ServiceWA app Another helpful tool to gather information is the ServiceWA app. This app is a COVID-19 contact register system, allowing you to register your attendance using unique venue QR codes, improving the efficiency of COVID-19 contact tracing.

Meaning you are informed when you come into close contact with a positive case in the community.

This information can allow people to prepare themselves for a potential COVID-19 infection. Users can inform their workplaces, allowing them to cater for their possible absence and minimise the risk to their operations.

RATs must be approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

People who have self-administered a RAT for COVID-19, and tested positive must register their results online with the WA Department of Health.

If you cannot access the online registration system, you can register by contacting 13 COVID (13 26843). The registration form requires the date and time of the test, personal details about your situation, and a phone number to be contacted on. The Department of Health will then assess how to best manage the case, including healthcare if required.

The app also has added functionality of applying for G2G (Good To Go) passes for domestic and international travel approval. It also supports proof of vaccinations details for use during the State Governments vaccination mandates and links to regularly updated government websites.

MORE INFORMATION This article has been adapted from the Government of Western Australia Department of Health and the Australian Government Department of Health Therapeutic Goods Administration COVID-19 and Rapid Antigen Test information pages.

• T herapeutic Goods Administration: tga.gov.au/covid-19-rapid-antigen-selftests-are-approved-australia • HealthyWA: healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/ Coronavirus/COVID19-testing/RapidAntigen-Test • WA Government: wa.gov.au/government/announcements/ mandatory-registration-of-positiverapid-antigen-tests

These tools provide ease of use during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and can be used as a source of information to assist with business continuity planning.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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HOW TRICAL AUSTRALIA HAS HELPED GROWERS?

In recent trials, TriCal Australia has demonstrated the ability to grow two crops with a single pass of soil fumigation. This gives growers the economic benefit of amortising costs across these crops as well as the benefit of increased yields.

Broadacre benefits

Possible crop rotations

Decrease in soil pests and diseases to below economic damage thresholds.

Brassica crop (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli) followed by another brassica crop.

Up to 45 weeks of soil pest and disease improvement from one pass of soil fumigation.

Brassica crop followed by pumpkins.

Up to two crops planted back-to-back on one fumigation.

Stimulates natural soil biology to work with crop growth and production.

Up to 25% water use efficiency increase in plants.

Soil fumigation is compatible with integrated pest management strategies.

Increased crop yields through consistency of crop set by up to 15% thereby decreasing harvest labour picking costs.

Increase in quality specifications for harvested crop = improved price of harvested products.

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Onions followed by carrots.

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Up to 30% fertiliser uptake efficiency in plants.

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Onions followed by fresh or seed potato crop.

Our customers consistently achieve increased crop value and reduced pest and disease issues.

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your

industry Your industry WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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Meet VegNET 3.0: A revamped Regional Development and Extension Project

BY MICHAEL BARTHOLOMEW REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

f WILDEYE soil moisture and tensiometer installed at a grower’s property in Carabooda.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

W

e all know the agriculture paradigm; challenges are getting larger, threats are getting closer, work is getting harder, and margins are getting smaller.

Applied to an industry like mining for example, this would be signalling impending doom, but not for agriculture.

Strengthening and building new knowledge transfer pathways.

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f MAKING more informed decisions around irrigation scheduling.

Australian agriculture’s resilience in the face of these dynamic challenges has been proven since its beginning.

Regional development and extension programs are nothing new, but with significance of a safe and reliable food supply being of unsurpassed importance in the face of population growth, climate change and economic competition; these programs need to deliver more impact for industry.

A fresh perspective A big step forward in the development of these crucial extension services comes VegNET 3.0 and its national team of Regional Development Officers (RDOs), a team of which I am pleased to be a part of. Holding a Bachelor of Agribusiness from Curtin University and having been exposed to diverse agricultural systems my entire life, I am looking forward to further developing and evolving my knowledge and sharing it with those around me.

that my work and others in my position can have a national impact — I cannot think of anything more fulfilling.

On my desk right now are three projects.

But over time these will grow, change, and adapt to the most important and pressing matters facing WA growers.

Here is a little about each:

Sustainability An all-encompassing project currently geared towards water and energy use optimisation and reduction but with the potential to expand to all aspects of sustainability across the triple bottom line. At the time of writing, soil moisture sensors and tensiometers have been deployed to numerous sites across WA’s growing regions to help gather data for making more informed decisions around irrigation scheduling. This aims to help reduce water wastage, pump run times and fertiliser loss. Preliminary research is also being conducted into exploring more energy efficient temperature regulation of protected cropping enterprises.

An all-encompassing project currently geared towards water and energy use optimisation.

Based at vegetablesWA, I will be working closely with Truyen Vo to be brought up to speed with the extension projects and share in the enormous network he has spent so long building, so that I can hit the ground running and make an impact where it is needed most.

Backed by a network of highly experienced individuals both locally and across the country; I am set to be spending long days applying my knowledge of local and global agricultural systems to delivering comprehensive and individualised support to the Western Australian horticulture industry. This is all in addition to sharing my findings with the network of RDOs around the country so

Plant protection and biosecurity management Highlighting the synergy between proactive and reactive management comes the differences between pest and disease management and biosecurity.

Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic Virus (CGMMV) and Fall Armyworm (FAW) have been recent biosecurity concerns in WA growing regions. Our initial findings indicate that more can be done to proactively prevent the incursion of new pests and disease, with too much of the balance of focus being applied to reactive management approaches once

the damage is already done. We are working to arm growers with the means and resources to develop and integrate biosecurity plans into their production systems to minimise the risk surface to the industry as a whole.

Communication The triple bottom line (social impact, environmental impact and financial performance) of agriculture has such a dynamic impact on its functioning and can have enormous implications for business if not handled correctly.

The most valuable tool in managing these externalities is communication. Communication between growers, RDOs, industry, politicians, and society.

The complexity of these networks means that often the required information (such as emergency weather, market, and biosecurity updates) is not often passed on efficiently enough to reach their target in time. Strengthening these knowledge transfer pathways and building new ones forms the focus of this project.

MORE INFORMATION Please contact Michael Bartholomew on 0427 373 037 or michael.bartholomew@ vegetableswa.com.au

VegNET 3.0 is a strategic levy investment under the Hort Innovation Vegetable Fund. This project has been funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and funds from the Australian Government.

For more information on the fund and strategic levy investment visit horticulture.com.au

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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Production round a e t a t s e th

West Australian 2020-21 vegetable production.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

W

e have gathered some data to further your understanding of the scale and location of the sold vegetable production from the different production regions across Western Australia during the Financial Year 2020–21.

YOUR INDUSTRY

300 2019–20

200

CARROTS

MILLION TONNES

250

150 100

2020–21

50 0

0 2019–20 DOMESTIC WA

20

40

2020–21 EXPORT

DOMESTIC WA

INTERSTATE

FIGURE 1. OVERVIEW OF THE STATES SOLD PRODUCTION.

60

80

MILLION TONNES

100

120

140

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 2. COMPARISON OF VOLUME OF CARROT SOLD PRODUCTION FY2019–20 VS FY2020–21.

2019–20

Onions 2020–21 Tomatoes 2019–20 2020–21 Lettuce 2019–20 2020–21 Melons 2019–20 2020–21 Celery 2019–20 2020–21 Cabbage 2019–20 2020–21 Cauliflower 2019–20 2020–21 Broccoli 2019–20 2020–21 Capsicums 2019–20 2020–21 Sweet corn 2019–20 2020–21 Pumpkin 2019–20 2020–21 Zucchini 2019–20 2020–21 Cucumbers 2019–20 2020–21 Spinach 2019–20 2020–21 Spring onions 2019–20 2020–21 Baby leaf 2019–20 2020–21 Leafy 2019–20 2020–21 Brussels 2019–20 2020–21 Kale 2019–20 2020–21 Leeks 2019–20 2020–21 0

5 DOMESTIC WA

10

15

MILLION TONNES

20

25

30

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 3. COMPARISON OF VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION ACROSS THE TOP 20 VEGETABLES LINES FY2019–20 VS FY2020–21.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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YOUR INDUSTRY

Production round a the s tate

Carrots

PERTH METRO 52% MYALUP 17% CARNARVON 11% GINGIN 11% MANJIMUP 5% GERALDTON 3% ALBANY 1%

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

MILLION TONNES DOMESTIC WA

FIGURE 4. % BREAKDOWN BY REGION OF THE OVERALL DOMESTIC WA SUPPLY OF SOLD PRODUCTION.

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 7. VOLUME OF CARROT SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE GINGIN REGION DURING FY2020–21.

Gingin 2019–20

2020–21

Perth Metro

2019–20 2020–21

Myalup 2019–20 2020–21 Carnarvon 2019–20 2020–21 2019–20

Manjimup 2020–21 2019–20

Geraldton 2020–21 2019–20

Albany 2020–21

GINGIN 81% MYALUP 11% PERTH METRO 7% CARNARVON 1%

-

20 DOMESTIC WA

FIGURE 5. % BREAKDOWN BY REGION OF THE OVERALL SUPPLY OF EXPORTED SOLD PRODUCTION, BOTH INTERSTATE AND INTERNATIONALLY.

40

60

80

MILLION TONNES

100

120

140

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 8. COMPARISON OVERALL VOLUME SOLD PRODUCTION FROM EACH REGION FY2019–20 VS FY 2020–21.

12

MILLION TONNES

10 8 6 4

DOMESTIC WA

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 6. VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE PERTH METRO REGION ACROSS THE TOP 20 VEGETABLE LINES DURING FY2020–21.

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Leeks

Radish

Cucumbers

Kale

Spinach

Baby leaf

Brussels

Melons

Zucchini

Capsicums

Sweet corn

Broccoli

Cauliflower

Celery

Cabbage

Onions

Carrots

Tomatoes

Lettuce

0

Spring onions

2

6

3.0

5

2.5

4

2.0

MILLION TONNES

MILLION TONNES

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3 2

0 Lettuce Cabbage Onions DOMESTIC WA

Leafy Cauliflower Celery Baby leaf Spinach

DOMESTIC WA

1.2 1.0

MILLION TONNES

MILLION TONNES

20 15 10 5

0.8 0.6 0.4 0.2

Carrots DOMESTIC WA

Onions

Melons

Broccoli

0

Pumpkin

CucumbersTomatoes Leeks Lebanese Melons Capsicums Eggfruit Sweet corn DOMESTIC WA

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 10. VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE MYALUP REGION ACROSS THE TOP 5 VEGETABLE LINES DURING FY2020–21.

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 13. VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE GERALDTON REGION ACROSS THE TOP 8 VEGETABLE LINES DURING FY2020–21.

250,000

8 7

200,000

6 5

TONNES

MILLION TONNES

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 12. VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE MANJIMUP REGION ACROSS THE TOP 8 VEGETABLE LINES DURING FY2020–21.

25

4 3 2

150,000 100,000 50,000

1 0

Onions Pumpkin Carrots Broccoli TomatoesCauliflower Spinach Lettuce

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 9. VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE GINGIN REGION ACROSS THE TOP 8 VEGETABLE LINES DURING FY2020–21.

0

1.0 0.5

1 0

1.5

Tomatoes Melons Capsicums Pumpkin Zucchini Eggfruit Chillies Sweet corn DOMESTIC WA

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 11. VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE CARNARVON REGION ACROSS THE TOP 8 VEGETABLE LINES DURING FY2020–21.

0

Onions

Carrots Capsicums Asparagus Broccoli

DOMESTIC WA

Leeks

Lettuce Cauliflower

EXPORT — INTERSTATE & INTERNATIONAL

FIGURE 14. VOLUME OF SOLD PRODUCTION FROM THE ALBANY REGION ACROSS THE TOP 8 VEGETABLE LINES DURING FY2020–21.

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Protecting WA’s plant industries

from the pantry!

BY LAURA FAGAN & ISABEL AREVALO-VIGNE DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS, DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

T

he Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is putting more resources into plant pest biosecurity, with stronger border controls and increasing its capability to respond to pest incursions.

Early warning and preparedness are also a priority. Enhanced prevention and surveillance deliver the best outcomes, and initiatives such as the Pantry Blitz are expanding Western Australia’s surveillance perimeter and the number of people looking.

DPIRD’s current Pantry Blitz campaign is providing an opportunity for the public and industry to complement DPIRD’s large number of targeted plant pest surveillance programs.

These programs act as vital early warning systems of any new incursions of pests not yet found in WA.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

The Pantry Blitz is a four-week campaign that commenced on 18 March.

YOUR INDUSTRY

f THE Pantry Blitz campaign provides an opportunity to collect evidence that WA is free from devastating pests such as khapra beetle.

f THE most commonly found insects during 2021 were cigarette beetles (4446 found).

The Pantry Blitz is a four-week campaign that commenced on 18 March and will finish on 22 April. It has involved inviting the public to host insect traps inside their kitchen cupboards, and send in weekly photos using DPIRD’s MyPestGuide® Reporter app of their traps and any trapped insects, for identification by DPIRD experts.

located throughout WA ranging from Esperance to Kununurra, with the majority in Perth.

Out of the thousands of photos sent in last year, none of them were exotic pests, providing reassurance to our plant industries and trading partners. The most commonly found insects were cigarette beetles (4446 found), booklice (1279 found), and Indian meal moth (679 found) — all commonly found in Australia and WA.

Detecting any unwanted pests that may have made their way to WA.

It is aimed at detecting any unwanted pests that may have made their way to WA and into the homes of ordinary people. It also provides an opportunity to collect evidence that WA is free from devastating pests such as khapra beetle, which protects valuable export markets.

This is the fourth Pantry Blitz to be undertaken by DPIRD, with previous campaigns being a great success. Last year there were nearly 1400 participants,

Pantry-stop There is an increasing volume of freight, mail, travellers and vehicles crossing WA’s borders, and proactive surveillance initiatives such as the Pantry Blitz provide an opportunity to respond accordingly.

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Invasive bugs, ants, snails, moths and bees are expert hitchhikers, stowing away in shipping containers, furniture, mail, and a whole range of imported goods. This includes electrical goods, vehicles and packaged food such as flour, cereal and rice. The pantry is the perfect place for a pest to set up home and live undetected, and therefore an ideal place to look for them.

DPIRD biosecurity related ‘Blitzes’ are a great way to increase awareness of the need for all Western Australians to make looking and reporting pests, and using our reporting tools such as the MyPestGuide® Reporter app, a part of everyday life that should continue far longer than four weeks of pantry watching. Pests don’t just turn up on farms — in fact the goal is to find them before they get there.

“The WA Government is committed to reducing the risk of exotic pest incursions, with an investment of $15.1 million last year to enhance the pest surveillance, preparedness and response work being undertaken by DPIRD. “This work can be further enhanced by building great partnerships with all of our stakeholders, including industry and the community, because the best kind of biosecurity system is based on a shared responsibility for the protection of WA. “I often refer to plant biosecurity as the Swiss cheese model of risk — if there are holes in slices of cheese, things can get through, but the more layers of defence

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

“No single layer of cheese, or defence, is going to be effective on its own, so there needs to be multiple layers. Everyone has a part to play in contributing to these layers of defence.

These programs are essential to protecting our primary industries and the jobs and economic growth they provide, and also our pristine environments, our homes and enjoyment of the great outdoors.

“The earlier we detect a pest or disease, the faster the response, the better chance we have to eradicate it, and the greater the long-term benefits to the entire community,” DPIRD Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer Dr Sonya Broughton.

Serious pests such as khapra beetle could destroy our grains industry, red imported fire ants and European wasps could ruin our outdoor lifestyle, and diseases such as myrtle rust could destroy our precious bushland.

DPIRD surveillance programs

Ongoing surveillance, by everyone, is essential to protecting everything we love.

there are, then the less likely it is for something to get through.

A WA Government investment of $15.1 million will help expand the current pest surveillance, preparedness and response work being undertaken by DPIRD, as well as provide opportunities to introduce new initiatives.

Current surveillance programs include a Queensland fruit fly trapping grid across the metropolitan area (about 1900 traps), sentinel traps placed within grains facilities at high-risk sites, a European wasp adopt-a-trap surveillance program, and a seasonal trapping and surveillance program in the south-east of the state for starlings.

There are also a range of trapping programs at high-risk sites such as ports for the notorious hitchhiking pests brown marmorated stink bug and invasive ants, and DPIRD participates in the National Bee Pest Surveillance Program, involving sentinel hives placed at strategic locations throughout WA.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Laura Fagan on 0449 979 078, laura.fagan@dpird.wa.gov.au, or go to agric.wa.gov.au/pantry-blitz

Report your observations!

MyPestGuide® Reporter via online or app mypestguide.agric.wa.gov.au Pest and Disease Information Service (08) 9368 3080 padis@dpird.wa.gov.au

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Strengthening our industries representation, engagement, and market offering.

As is our engagement with and representation of industry.

The Melons Australia team is growing!

I

BY COURTNEY ARCHER COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, MELONS AUSTRALIA

f you don’t already know about us, Melons Australia is the peak industry body for the melon industry in Australia.

Looking at the previous year in review, we underwent significant reform to strengthen our industries representation, engagement, and market offering. This included appointing our first full-time Executive Officer — Johnathon Davey.

2021 also saw us work through the development and implementation of our new 2021–26 Strategic Plan, this was designed to support the industry — working together to build a successful future for the Australian Melon industry.

The 4 key strategic focus areas of the strategy are: • Organisational development (including leadership and resources for Melons Australia) • Grower/industry engagement and support • Melon marketing and promotion (domestic and export) • Industry production development (profitability, sustainability, biosecurity, R&D).

So, what’s on for 2022?

With Johnathon Davey continuing to lead the team as Executive Officer and industry advocate, Melons Australia has also appointed Communications Officer, Courtney Archer. Courtney will be working to develop and execute the Melons communications strategy. Joanna Embry will continue her work as Biosecurity Officer with the focus for 2022 an extension and outreach program.

Working with Hort Innovation, we have developed a regional roadshow and conference program that will span over the coming years.

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f PROTECTING our farms from exotic pests and diseases.

Our roadshow program will see the Melons Australia team, strategic partners, research providers and other interested parties in your region at some stage in 2022.

From a biosecurity standpoint, Melons Australia will be implementing a national biosecurity extension project which aims to improve farm biosecurity practices, including crop hygiene and surveillance for exotic pests and diseases.

The fundamental objectives of this project are to: 1 Assist growers to improve general biosecurity practices

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

4 Assist growers with installing specific improved biosecurity hygiene including signage/visitor registers/ apps to trace visitors etc.

Our biosecurity officer will be conducting grower visits and organising regional workshops in all Western Australian growing regions throughout 2022.

For more information on these workshops make sure to follow our Facebook and Instagram pages and visit our website where we will include regular updates.

2022 will see a complete reform of our industry communications.

2 Develop and provide a toolkit including the resources required to improve farm hygiene, biosecurity, and monitoring practices e.g., Footbaths, information on permitted disinfecting chemicals, visitor registers etc.

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3 Educate growers on conducting their own surveillance for high priority pests

2022 will also see a complete reform of our industry communications through the development of an extensive communications strategy, working to improve industry engagement and strengthen industry resilience and connectedness.

Our strategy will work to improve our current digital platforms, and the way we deliver industry resources and training, working to promote effective two-way communications.

Over the coming months, we will be launching a new digital member platform for industry communications.

This new digital portal will hold secure information and resources, a ‘Community of Practice’ facilitating regular discussion forums, including podcasts and other useful resources.

The platform will also include an ‘Ask the Expert’ feature, connecting growers with participating researchers, reforming and innovating the way we communicate with industry and allowing growers across the nation to easily communicate with each other.

We welcome all input or feedback from Western Australian growers into the Melons Australia work program.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Johnathon on 0407 032 023 or at execofficer@melonsaustralia.org.au or go to melonsaustralia.org.au.

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These pests are a major threat to Australia’s vegetable industry.

Liriomyza flies in-focus: Have you seen an exotic leafminer? f YIELD losses vary but leaf damage can reduce photosynthetic activity, causing premature leaf drop.

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PHOTO © BAHRAM FAYAZ, H.M.CLAUSE.

f SLM stippling damage caused by adult feeding and egg laying.

BY ZALI MAHONY BIOSECURITY OFFICER, AUSVEG

E

xotic leafminers have been the centre of our attention recently — and with good reason. There are three Liriomyza leafminer species that are now present in Australia: Vegetable leafminer, serpentine leafminer and most recently, American serpentine leafminer. AUSVEG Biosecurity Officer Zali Mahony reports.

Leafminers are small flies that belong to the family Agromyzidae, and concerningly, each species has a wide host range including many vegetable, ornamental and legume crops. Yield losses vary but leaf damage can reduce photosynthetic activity, causing premature leaf drop. These pests are a major threat to Australia’s vegetable industry.

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Current situation in Australia There are three exotic Liriomyza leafminers now present in Australia — vegetable leafminer (VLM; Liriomyza sativae), serpentine leafminer (SLM; Liriomyza huidobrensis) and the most recently detected American serpentine leafminer (ASLM; Liriomyza trifolii).

Area of Cape York (QLD). There has been a single detection in Broome (WA).

Containment versus management strategy All three species are considered National Priority Plant Pests. With each pest detection, the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests (CCEPP) — Australia’s key technical body for coordinating national responses to emergency plant pest incursions — is responsible for determining whether a pest is technically feasible to eradicate.

VLM was first detected in 2008 in the Torres Strait Islands and in 2015 at the tip of Cape York Peninsula Leafminers are small in Queensland. No flies that belong to the further detections have family Agromyzidae. been made.

SLM was first detected in western Sydney, New South Wales in October 2020 and a month later in Queensland’s Fassifern Valley.

The pest is now considered established in both states.

Most recently, ASLM was detected in July 2021 in the Torres Strait Islands and across northern Western Australia (see Figure 1). There have since been further detections in Kununurra (WA), Darwin and Katherine in the Northern Territory, and the Northern Peninsula

Following their detection, the CCEPP determined that VLM and ASLM are not technically feasible to eradicate largely due to the pest’s biology, current distribution and wide host range.

A containment strategy is in place for ASLM due to its current distribution limited to some locations in northern Australia. Movement restrictions from the far northern biosecurity zones are in place and have been successful in previously preventing further spread of VLM. For ASLM, delimiting surveillance

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SLM was first detected in western Sydney, New South Wales.

Darwin, NT Katherine, NT

Seisia, QLD Northern Area of Cape York Peninsula, QLD

Kununurra, WA Broome, WA

Fassifern Valley, QLD

Western Sydney, NSW

VEGETABLE LEAFMINER SERPENTINE LEAFMINER AMERICAN SERPENTINE LEAFMINER

FIGURE 1. MAP OF INITIAL DETECTIONS FOR VLM, SLM, ASLM. COLOUR DENOTES THE INITIAL DETECTIONS OF EACH LIRIOMYZA SPECIES. Source: AUSVEG, NSW Department of Primary Industries, and National pest & disease outbreaks.

is still being conducted to determine any potential further distribution of this pest.

SLM was also determined not technically feasible to eradicate due to the extent of the pest’s infestation across NSW and QLD, its biology and wide host range. As a containment strategy was not feasible, a transition to management by industry began in late 2020.

Lifecycle and damage The lifecycle for Liriomyza leafminers is generally consistent across species.

Adults feed on leaves and females lay eggs just below the leaf surface of host plants. This causes ‘stippling’ damage that can be visible in some instances and can cause a high risk of fungal and bacterial infection for the plant.

Eggs hatch between 2–5 days after being laid. Eggs are too small to be seen by the naked eye, so a seemingly healthy plant may be harbouring the pest without us knowing. Inside the leaf tissue, larvae begin to feed within the leaf creating tunnels or mines that become larger as the larvae matures. These leaf mines can reduce photosynthetic activity, causing premature leaf drop.

Larvae then exit the leaf to transition to adults (pupate) externally to the leaf, usually in soil below the plant from which adults emerge 7–14 days later.

Other species of Liriomyza leafminers can transition to adults within the leaf tissue, but this is not the case for VLM, SLM or ASLM. The duration of Liriomyza spp. lifecycles does vary with temperature. Favourable environmental conditions can reduce the time it takes for an entire lifecycle, meaning several generations can occur in one season. In unfavourable environmental conditions, the cycle takes longer.

Identification Adult Liriomyza species of leafminers are difficult to identify in the field, and molecular diagnostic tests are necessary to confirm species. Exotic species also look similar to native leafminers that are prevalent in Australia (e.g., Liriomyza brassicae) (see Figure 2).

FIGURE 2. IT IS DIFFICULT TO IDENTIFY LIRIOMYZA LEAFMINERS BASED ON MORPHOLOGY. MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS ARE REQUIRED. Source: (Left) Pest and Diseases Image Library, Bugwood.org; (middle and right) Central Science Laboratory, Harpenden, British Crown, Bugwood.org.

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f MAJOR risk pathways of leafminers is by the importation of infested ornamental host plants and cut flowers.

Stippling and leaf mine damage do not differ between Liriomyza species, so cannot be used to separate species.

Stippling and leaf mines are the key indicator to look for when monitoring crops and surrounding vegetation.

Risk of spread and establishment Major risk pathways of leafminers into and across Australia is by the importation of infested ornamental host plants and cut flowers.

Many important vegetable production regions in Australia have the climatic conditions suited to Liriomyza spp. establishment.

Climate models and existing pest knowledge have been used to determine the pest’s risk of establishment in regions across Australia. A predictive model based on temperature, moisture constraints and predicted dominant stressors (cold, heat, desiccation) was created

by Cesar Australia as part of a levy funded project, MT16004, which developed a contingency plan for each pest (see further reading section).

Liriomyza leaminers can rapidly develop resistance to various chemical groups.

Leafy vegetables and seedlings can move leafminers across Australia. Natural pathways (such as wind) or human-assisted entry can also occur at the borders (e.g., on plant material illegally imported).

Globally, Liriomyza leafminer dispersal and establishment has rapidly occurred, with populations found on most continents now.

VLM and ASLM are suited to similar climatic conditions and are predicted to likely establish along the northern, eastern, southern and southwestern coastline of Australia and Tasmania (see Figure 3a and Figure 3c). Both are heat tolerant species, meaning they will thrive in tropical conditions.

However, they are not only tropical pests and are also suited to temperate regions. VLM and ASLM are not as suited to cool-climate regions as other species, but they are still predicted to be able to maintain populations year-round across Australia. ASLM has been reported to have delays in development (diapause) at low temperatures, which will allow them to survive cold conditions, until warmer weather arrives.

Comparatively, SLM adults are reported to be more resilient and able to survive winter temperatures (as low as -11.5ºC), with pupae able to survive and transition to adults in temperatures between 5.7ºC to 30ºC. SLM is most likely to establish along the eastern, southern and south-western coastline of Australia and Tasmania (see Figure 3b).

FIGURE 3. THE AGGREGATED YEARLY ESTABLISHMENT POTENTIAL OF (A) VLM, (B) SLM AND (C) ASLM AS THE NUMBER OF MONTHS ACROSS THE YEAR WITH INCREASING POPULATION SIZES BASED ON TEMPERATURE AND MOISTURE CONSTRAINTS. Source: Cesar Australia.

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Pest management

Chemical control options

International management of Liriomyza leafminers includes the use of natural enemies such as parasitoid wasps that attack larvae. Research has indicated that exotic Liriomyza leafminers are rapidly targeted by Agromyzid parasitoids, and many are reported to affect these pests overseas.

This is promising for future management as these parasitoids tend not to be host-specific, and Australia has several native species that are likely to affect these leafminer pests. There is also initial evidence of the presence of native predators in the Australian environment.

Liriomyza leafminers can rapidly develop resistance to various chemical groups — particularly organophosphates, carbamates, diamides and pyrethroids — which can make control difficult.

Application of broad-spectrum insecticides often results in larger leafminer populations as these insecticides reduce the reservoir of natural enemies (parasitoid wasps as well as other generalist predators like spiders), which keep leafminer populations in check.

Translaminar and systemic chemical options support the management of leafminers as they are not harmful to the natural enemies.

Liriomyza leafminers can rapidly develop resistance to various chemical groups.

Pest management practices should be mindful of preserving natural enemies and consider the use of pesticides that don’t harm these beneficial insects.

Several insecticides are used overseas for the control of exotic leafminers, including — but not limited to — abamectin, azadirachtin, chlorantraniliprole, cyromyzine, indoxacarb, spinetoram and spinosad.

There are several minor use permits currently available for Liriomyza leafminers for the vegetable and potato industry. For more information, please visit horticulture.com.au/growers/ serpentine-leafminer-update FURTHER READING • M anagement of leafmining flies in vegetable and nursery crops in Australia: bit.ly/2X1vkps • Monitoring for serpentine leafminer in Australia: bit.ly/3D21UqC • AUSVEG biosecurity alerts: bit.ly/3hjOjTo • Plant Health Australia — Liriomyza spp. fact sheets, diagnostic protocols and contingency plans: — Vegetable leafminer: bit.ly/3tuLDau — Serpentine leafminer: bit.ly/2X59Rfj — American serpentine leafminer: bit.ly/38P6gEE Please contact the AUSVEG Extension & Engagement Team on (03) 9882 0277 or email science@ausveg.com.au.

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PSHB was first reported in Western Australia on 6 August 2021.

f DPIRD is undertaking a comprehensive surveillance program.

Polyphagous shot-hole borer a perfect invader 40

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PSHB has a known host range of more than 400 plant species.

BY DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

T

he Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is responding to the confirmed detection of an exotic beetle, the Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) in the Perth metropolitan area.

PSHB (Euwallacea fornicatus) is a member of a group of beetles known as ambrosia beetles that live in symbiosis with a fungus (Fusarium sp.).

The beetle excavates tunnels in stressed and healthy trees in which they cultivate the fungus as a food source. The fungus spreads inside the tunnels and disrupts the plant vascular system and the flow of water and nutrients.

The establishment of this pest in WA may have a significant impact on urban trees, native trees and some industries.

As this is the first detection in Australia, the full impact of this pest will not be known for some time.

Detection PSHB was first reported in Western Australia on 6 August 2021 via DPIRD’s MyPestGuide® Reporter app.

A member of the public reported symptoms on two 30-year-old box elder maple trees (Acer negundo) in East Fremantle.

Hosts

f BEETLE entry/exit holes are approximately the size of a ballpoint pen tip.

PSHB has a known host range of more than 400 plant species. High priority hosts include:

DPIRD is currently determining the local reproductive host range as PSHB may behave differently in WA.

• Maple (Acer)

What to look for

• Fig (Ficus) • Robinia • Poinciana (Delonix regia) • Oak (Quercus) • Plane (Platanus) • Coral (Erythrina) • Avocado (Persea) • Willow (Salix) • Castor oil (Ricinus)

• Detection of PSHB is difficult as they are very small — about the size of a sesame seed.

• Female PSHB are approximately 2mm in length and range from brown to black in colour.

• Only females have the ability to fly and disperse to other trees.

Because the beetle is so small, the symptoms of PSHB damage are usually noticed before the beetle.

Symptoms vary from species to species but may include the following: • Galleries — when pruning branches or inspecting fallen branches, check for evidence of galleries caused by the tunnelling action of PSHB beetles.

• Males are smaller at approximately 1.6mm in length and have no wings.

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• Beetle entry/exit holes — approximately the size of a ballpoint pen tip.

• Discoloration/staining — this is caused by the Fusarium fungus.

• Gumming — thick resin or sap.

• Frass — produced by the beetles tunnelling, frass or ‘noodles’ may be seen on the tree exterior. This can indicate a high level of infestation.

DPIRD’s response A Quarantine Area (QA) was established to support DPIRD’s ongoing surveillance program to determine the spread of the pest. Restrictions have been placed on the movement of green waste and plant material outside of the QA.

• Dieback and tree death — the fungus disrupts the tree vascular symptom causing dieback and death.

The QA covers 17 local government areas: Cambridge, Canning, Claremont, Cockburn, Cottesloe, East Fremantle, Fremantle, Melville, Mosman Park, Nedlands, Peppermint Grove, Perth, South Perth, Stirling, Subiaco, Victoria Park and Vincent.

Symptoms are not always obvious. Look for early signs of dieback and inspect trees closely for evidence of small bore holes — about the size of a ballpoint pen tip. There are often large numbers of holes in a shotgun pattern.

DPIRD has been undertaking a comprehensive surveillance program, with the removal of trees now necessary as part of the current response, to keep beetle populations down while next steps are being considered.

• Sugar volcanoes — a common sign of infection on Avocado trees, where crystalline foam is exuded from entry/exit holes.

f PSHB cultivate fungus as a food source.

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Department Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer Dr Sonya Broughton said the borer could severely damage host trees, with some species dying within two years of infestation.

Check for evidence of galleries caused by the tunnelling action of PSHB beetles.

f PSHB can severely damage host trees.

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The department is working closely with local councils and residents to facilitate the removal of infested trees.

“The box elder maple tree (Acer negundo) has been identified as the main host for the shot-hole borer,” Dr Broughton said.

“Any box elder maple trees infested with the borer will need to be removed, along with any other box elder maples within a 35m radius of an infested tree which is showing signs of damage.

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f SUSPECT borer damage can be reported via the MyPestGuide® Reporter app.

“Other species of trees will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Some trees may only require the infested branches to be pruned, while others may need to be removed.

Impact on industry If the borer spreads beyond urban amenity trees, it has the potential to impact the nursery, fruit and nut tree industries. Potential impact on the forestry industry is currently unknown.

MORE INFORMATION For the latest information and developments regarding PSHB please visit agric.wa.gov.au/borer

“We will advise residents and local councils directly if a tree or trees Report suspect borer damage need to be removed and/ and box elder maples or pruned and work with Susceptible trees and shrubs should be inspected them on the process.”

Early detection and Dr Broughton said trees damaged by PSHB could quickly become safety hazards and a constant source of beetles that could disperse to neighbouring trees.

the prompt removal or pruning of infested trees is key.

“Early detection and the prompt removal or pruning of infested trees is key to containing PSHB spread and minimising further impact on neighbouring trees,” Dr Broughton said.

and monitored for PSHB damage. A favourite hiding place for this pest is box elder maple trees. Report any suspect PSHB infestation to DPIRD.

Current surveillance activities include locating and monitoring these sentinel trees to prevent the spread of the borer.

DPIRD encourages everyone to also report the location of box elder maples anywhere in WA, especially in the regions — even if they are healthy.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Report your observations!

MyPestGuide® Reporter via online or app mypestguide.agric.wa.gov.au Pest and Disease Information Service (08) 9368 3080 padis@dpird.wa.gov.au

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Improving weed and pest management

on truffle orchard floors

The Australian truffle industry is more than 20 years old.

 THE Australian truffle industry is the fourth largest producer of truffles in the world, after Spain, France, and Italy.

 THE project will research slug and slater management alternatives, which are the most abundant pests and truffle orchard floors.

BY ALISON MATHEWS AND RACHELLE JOHNSTONE DPIRD

S

ustainable weed and pest management alternatives for truffle orchard floors are the focus of a two-year research project being undertaken by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

The Australian truffle industry is more than 20 years old and is the fourth largest producer of truffles in the world, after the traditional truffle growing countries of Spain, France, and Italy.

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The industry is export focused, with approximately 80% of production exported to markets including North America, Europe, the UK, and Asia.

In 2019, Australia exported eight tonnes of truffles and production is predicted to increase to more than 20 tonnes by 2025.

Weeds and pests pose a serious risk to truffle production. Weeds compete with the truffle host tree, the establishment of the mycorrhizae, and truffle development, and slugs and slaters are an abundant and widespread orchard floor dwelling pest of truffles.

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However, commonly used herbicides are coming under increased scrutiny by farmers, scientists, and consumers, and the efficacy and impacts of softer alternatives on truffle mycorrhizae and production still need to be evaluated.

Truffle growers are encouraged to keep an eye out for updates on the project throughout the twoyear project, through field days, workshops, and a newsletter.

In spring this year DPIRD commenced trials of sustainable alternatives, including a flame weeder, pine oil and acid-based herbicides.

The aim is to assess the effectiveness of these management techniques on weeds, as well as the impact on truffle mycorrhiza health and abundance, and soil biome.

The Integrated Pest and Disease Manual will be updated with project outcomes and made available to growers. These will include orchard floor management options, with a focus on weed, slug and slater control.

Sustainable practices will be required to maintain high value markets.

The project will also assess the impact of these weed treatments on slugs and slaters. Other pest management options will also be looked at, including creating a pest-free habitat on the orchard floor (through weed management and leaf litter removal) and mass trapping, and whether they are cost-effective.

The knowledge gained through this project may also be useful for other horticultural industries interested in sustainable weed and pest management alternatives. With increasing consumer awareness of the environmental impacts of food production, the use and demonstration of sustainable practices will be required to maintain high value markets.

MORE INFORMATION This project is supported by DPIRD, in collaboration with the Applied Agricultural Remote Sensing Centre and the Australian National University, through funding from AgriFutures Australia as part of its AgriFutures Emerging Industries Program and DPIRD with contributions from Truffle Producers Western Australia Inc. Rachelle Johnstone, (08) 9780 6158, rachelle.johnstone@dpird.wa.gov.au.

Alison Mathews, (08) 9777 0122, alison.mathews@dpird.wa.gov.au.

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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Rapid response to

Red dwarf honey bee detection

A single swarm of the exotic bees was found on an imported sea container.

f THE recent Perth detection of a Red dwarf honey bee swarm on the outside of a shipping container highlights the need to always be on the lookout for pests in imported goods.

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BY DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

A

f RED dwarf honey bee (L) is smaller than the European honey bee (R) — less than 1cm long.

collaborative effort between the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) and a broad range of stakeholders ensured a rapid response and containment of a recent detection of the exotic Red dwarf honey bee (Apis florea), in the Perth suburb of Forrestfield.

Native to Asia, the Red dwarf honey bee is a vector of bee diseases, parasites and viruses. They also pose a risk to European honey bees and native bees as they compete for resources.

A single swarm of the exotic bees was found on an imported sea container transferred to Forrestfield, and reported to DPIRD by the container owner.

The response was immediate, involving collaboration with the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE), Western Australian and interstate scientists, Fremantle Ports, freight stakeholders, the bee industry and members of the community.

Surveillance activities have not detected any further exotic bees other than the original single exotic bee swarm.

Response activities • The swarm was quickly contained and destroyed on the same day it was reported.

• Samples returned to the DPIRD’s Diagnostics and Laboratory Services (DDLS) labs undertook molecular testing to confirm the bee species.

• A single Euvarroa mite was detected on one of the bees. The mite reproduces on the drone brood of Red dwarf honey bees and is not known to naturally parasitise our European honey bee.

The red dwarf honey bee is just 7–10 millimetres in length.

• Targeted surveillance was conducted along the rail transport route between Fremantle and Forrestfield.

• Surveillance included the deployment and observation of feed stations, floral sweeps, inspection of local catch boxes and local sentinel hives that are already deployed as part of the National Bee Pest Surveillance Program.

• DAWE located and inspected all containers from the consignment and additional containers that were in close proximity to the detection.

• Surveillance was undertaken at Fremantle Port.

• Beekeepers were asked to inspect hives regularly.

Unusual bee or hive observations should be reported immediately to DPIRD’s Pest and Disease Information Service on (08) 9368 3080 or padis@dpird.wa.gov.au, or using the MyPestGuide® Reporter app or online form (mypestguide.agric.wa.gov.au).

What to look for • The Red dwarf honey bee is easily distinguished by their small size in comparison to the European honey bee, being just 7–10 millimetres in length.

• They have a red/brown abdomen with black and white bands.

• They are characterised by their external nesting habits.

• Their nest is made up of an exposed single horizontal comb less than 25 centimetres wide that is built around and attached to tree branches or other support.

MORE INFORMATION Contact the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development on (08) 9368 3080 or padis@dpird.wa.gov.au

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

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Chemical Residue Testing requirements

to meet Freshcare Standards and your customer requirements

F

BY JOEL DINSDALE QUALITY ASSURANCE COORDINATOR, VEGETABLESWA

or most growers that have a food safety system in place on farm, chemical residue testing will be part of their systems’ best practice requirements.

What testing do I undertake and what records do I need to keep for audit?

Freshcare prescribes that any testing completed must be an analysis of a random sample (that has had all treatments applied and is ready for consumption). All analysis should be conducted by a NATA accredited laboratory (or accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 Standard).

Chemical residue testing requirements will differ slightly per grower, as it can be dependent on the crops you grow, the customers you supply, and whether your produce is for the domestic or export market.

“The chemical residue test required

by Freshcare must be a multiscreen test that includes chemicals used as part of your spray program and, where applicable, postharvest chemical treatments.” (Freshcare FSQ4.2 Factsheet F4 — Chemicals, 2021).

Let us take a closer look at the Freshcare Food Safety and Quality Edition 4.2 (FSQ4.2) Standard, and the requirements for chemical residue testing, as an example of what testing you need to complete for your Freshcare food safety system.

It should be noted that heavy metal and other chemical testing may also be required to address persistent chemicals and heavy metals — relating to ERLs — see definitions.

Why do I need to test my produce?

All Organic producers are also required to meet the Freshcare MRL testing requirements.

The rationale behind MRL/ERL testing is to verify that our farming activities are not knowingly contaminating the desired product(s) and all chemicals used are being applied according to current label or permit directions.

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The MRLs for fresh produce are established and documented in the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) Food Standards Code (Section 1.4.2 Agvet chemicals and associated Schedules — Schedule 20 and 21). The Food Standards Code is available on the FSANZ website.

At this point, it is probably a good time to review the glossary of terms — to make sure that we are clear on the definitions in the context of Freshcare FSQ4.2 before I define and resolve the issue in this article (see Table 1).

Chemical residue testing should be undertaken at least annually or as required by your customers.

The Maximum Residues Limit (MRL) for registered crop protection chemicals is established by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) in Australia. Growers can check state government requirements for on-farm legal use of chemicals, as there may be differences between state regulations. See the APVMA’s PubCRIS database for details.

How and when do I need to test?

Chemical residue testing should be undertaken at least annually or as required by your customers. When you are a grower of multiple commodities, you are required to do multiple tests to successfully gain FSQ4.2 certification Perhaps this is the part that is currently catching growers by surprise, meaning that nonconformances from the Standard are being formally raised by auditors.

Here’s what the Freshcare FSQ4.2 F4 Chemicals Factsheet states: “There should be more than one product tested, where there are significant differences in crop groupings managed, and/or chemical application/treatment programs. To ensure appropriate control of risk, a business must assess whether further testing is required. If required, product testing is to be completed.”

YOUR INDUSTRY

TABLE 1. GLOSSARY OF THE RELEVANT TERMS FOUND IN THE FRESHCARE FSQ ON-FARM STANDARD 4.2.

Term

Freshcare FSQ4.2 Definition

Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA)

Australian Government authority responsible for the assessment and registration of agricultural and veterinary chemical products.

Chemical

Products such as insecticides, acaricides, herbicides, fungicides, growth regulators, pheromones and other organic treatments used to control pest, disease, weeds, and growth, applied on or around the property, production areas and on harvested produce.

• It includes post-harvest chemicals used on-product such as fruit waxes, sanitisers, and fungicides.

• It also includes cleaning agents and sanitisers and grease, oils and lubricants used for maintenance.

Competent laboratory

A laboratory with NATA accreditation, or accredited to ISO/IEC 17025, for the required scope of testing. Or a laboratory run by a local, state, or federal government authority or university, that follows Australian Standard methods for the required scope of testing.

Extraneous Residue Limit (ERL) The maximum permitted limit of a pesticide residue, arising from environmental sources other than the use of a pesticide directly or indirectly on the food, expressed in milligrams of the chemical per kilogram of the food (mg/kg).

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ)

A government agency responsible for developing and administering the ‘Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.’

Maximum Level (ML)

The maximum level of a specified contaminant, or specified natural toxicant, which is permitted to be present in a nominated food expressed, unless otherwise specified, in milligrams of the contaminant or the natural toxicant per kilogram of the food (mg/kg).

Maximum Residue Limit (MRL)

This is the legal limit for a specific residue in food. MRLs are set at levels that are unlikely to be exceeded if chemicals are used according to label instructions.

Persistent chemicals

Organochlorine pesticides and other chemical residues in the soil that may cause unacceptable residues in produce.

Verification

A set of procedures, processes and tests designed to ensure the food safety system is working effectively.

Withholding Period (WHP)

The required time-period that must elapse between the crop treatment and harvest.

f IF you are growing multiple different varieties/ cultivars within a category i.e., Tomato Roma and Tomato Cherry, you would only need to test one in the tomato category.

Take the guess work out of it! Get advice from Freshcare.

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This is where the Freshcare Crop List comes in handy as we need to identify different crop groupings to meet the Standard 4.2 requirements.

• If you are growing vegetables such as tomato, pumpkin, and cabbage — given that they are all grown and treated differently, you will need to test one of each commodity, so this is where it pays to reference the crop list. If you are growing multiple different varieties/cultivars within a category i.e., Tomato Roma and Tomato Cherry, you would only need to test one in the tomato category.

• For stone fruit growers (e.g., peach, plum, nectarine, apricot etc.) you would only need to test one line within the category to meet the requirements as the trees are treated similarly as a general rule of thumb.

• For citrus growers (e.g., orange, lemon, lime, mandarin etc.) as with stone fruit, you would only need to test one line within the category

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• For berry growers (e.g., strawberry, raspberry, blueberry etc.) it gets a bit more complicated, as an example: Blueberries are grown on a bush whereby the fruit does not contact the ground, whereas strawberry fruit tends* to contact the ground/plastic they are grown upon so the risks of ERLs differ. They are also grown/treated differently and have crop specific products registered for use by the APVMA. Therefore, a grower producing both blueberry and strawberry should get both tested to meet the requirements of Freshcare FSQ4.2.

One final note for consideration. For HARPS (Version 1.2), all commodities listed on the HARPS scope, require annual MRL, Heavy Metal and Microbial analysis to be conducted (or as per the customer requirements). That means that if you are a grower operating Freshcare FSQ4.2 + HARPS, you should be testing all your products listed on scope, regardless of which crop category they are in.

If you are not sure, contact Freshcare's network for support!

* Variations apply — seek Freshcare for specific advice.

IF YOU ARE NOT SURE, CONTACT FRESHCARE’S NETWORK FOR SUPPORT! Take the guess work out of it! Get advice from Freshcare or a Freshcare Trainer before you proceed. Mistakes can come with a financial impact.

If all of this, has you a bit unsure, please reach out and seek clarification from Freshcare or a Freshcare Trainer.

MORE INFORMATION For more information and/or further support with Freshcare or quality assurance, please contact Joel Dinsdale (joel.dinsdale@vegetableswa.com.au).

WA POTATOES

potato

update WA Potatoes

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contacts Horticulture House 103 Outram Street, WEST PERTH WA 6005 p: (08) 9481 0834 e: admin@wapotatoes.com.au w: todatoes.com.au Simon Moltoni, Chief Executive Officer m: 0447 141 752 e: simon@wapotatoes.com.au Morena Perdec, Finance & Admin Manager e: morena@wapotatoes.com.au Georgia Thomas, Project Manager e: georgia@wapotatoes.com.au

WA Potatoes

Committee 2021–22 Vaughan Carter Chairperson Colin Ayres Deputy Chairperson Glen Ryan Secretary Gary Bendotti Treasurer Patrick Fox Bronwyn Fox

Busselton

m: 0417 092 505

Albany

m: 0428 451 014

Pemberton

m: 0428 827 126

Pemberton

m: 0427 569 903

Scott River Dandaragan

m: 0499 887 202 m: 0427 447 412

Christian deHaan

Manjimup

m: 0429 436 361

Elected Members Representing the Ware Fresh sector: Vaughan Carter, Christian de Haan, Glen Ryan and Bronwyn Fox Representing the Seed sector: Colin Aryes Representing the Export sector: Patrick Fox Representing the Processing sector: Gary Bendotti

Fee-for-service charge 2021–22 Processing potatoes — local and export Seed potatoes — local and export Ware (fresh) potatoes — local Ware (fresh) potatoes — export Ware (fresh) potatoes — marketing

$6.00/t TBC^ $8.00/t $6.00/t $2.50/t

^ after grower consultation

Projects approved 2021–22

PGA: Association PGA: Biosecurity Plan DPIRD: Seed Certification Scheme & Virus Testing DPIRD: Database improvements and digital solutions support delivery of seed scheme DPIRD: Investigation of molecular testing for potato viruses (2 year project) Murdoch University: Field survey of predators of TPP in WA (2 year project)

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$330,000 $6,050 $46,000 $10,000 $40,000 $15,000

Chief Executive Officer’s Report

BY SIMON MOLTONI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION

I

am very sad to say, that like most of my articles over the last two years, COVID remains the major topic. Each change in circumstance seems to bring on new policies that simply become superseded within weeks. Conducting business with this level of uncertainty is beyond challenging.

Whether its local labour issues or international supply chain issues forcing input costs higher, it all comes back to COVID policies. There are some positive signs going forward.

The opening of our borders, both State and National, should help with labour supply. Also, we are starting to see some relaxation in definitions of close contacts, which should help reduce the threat of losing existing staff due to such contacts. This is still very messy but mechanisms to alleviate this problem should be in place by the time

you read this. I feel the solution is not to continue to create more policies, but rather do away with all existing policies.

This approach has been adopted in the UK and hopefully will spread all the way to Australia sooner rather than later.

Growers are reeling from the rapid increase in input costs. It is impossible to say how long the current conditions will be sustained, given the worldwide response to COVID. It is obvious to state that growers need to negotiate strongly with clients to receive a fair and sustainable price for their product.

The other side of the balance sheet is equally important.

All growers know their business well and receive advice from accountants or consultants as required.

In order to provide growers with an opportunity for more specialised potato business advice I have reached out to a well-known farm business consulting firm to see if we can adapt current agricultural business management models to horticulture business.

WA POTATOES

Heat wave conditions have affected pack-outs in recent times.

WA Potatoes

Chair’s Report

D

BY VAUGHAN CARTER CHAIR, PGAWA

ear grower, well the 2022 summer is here it would seem, and hot temperatures continue to be a feature so far.

f GROWERS are harvesting during the early hours and managing the cool chain to get product to market in optimal condition.

A presentation at our last Committee of Management meeting was insightful and there is enthusiasm to develop this concept. Please call for further information.

Heat wave conditions have affected packouts in recent times. Growers are doing their best by harvesting during the early hours and managing the cool chain to get product to market in optimal condition.

Even so some varieties have struggled to deal with the heat. Most growers are reporting good water reserves for irrigation due to the late, wet winter.

Horticulture House renovations are nearly complete. It looks great and is a much more functional asset going forward. We have not been immune to the supply chain issues either and delays have occurred, however we are nearly at the finish line and look forward to moving back in.

Our thoughts go to those who have been affected by bushfires in the southwest, the south coast and the eastern wheatbelt. To see temperatures hit 44 degrees in Albany is unheard of and to try and control any sort of fire let alone one in extreme conditions must have been terrifying.

A shout out also to all those volunteers who drop everything to help those in need.

I am sure everyone is aware of the increased cost involved in horticulture now. Having just pre-ordered fertiliser for the coming season it is a considerable cost increase. It’s not only fertiliser but also chemicals and fuel that sees budgets done prior coming under scrutiny. I can only hope that the end price on produce will reflect the operating cost increase.

Looking at prices in our major two retailers, most loose fill potatoes are around the $4/kg mark and packaged product from $1.50-$2.00/kg. I wonder how the consumer will feel if the price increases. We definitely will need to see better farm gate returns to remain viable over the coming financial year.

Building export relations as we move forward with the development of Ausfarm Connect.

Business arising at the PGA currently sees the pilot program sending chip stock into Thailand underway with product landing on dock as we go to press. A shout out to Patrick Fox who has assisted with the logistics and hopefully we can build further export relations as we move forward with the development of Ausfarm Connect.

Thank you to our team at Horticulture House for their continual hard work under difficult circumstances during the renovation of their office space. It will be great to finally get back to a normal workspace!

MORE INFORMATION Contact Vaughan on 0417 092 505 or email marybrook438@gmail.com

Horticulture House renovations are progressing well, and completion is imminent. It will be great to see the end result and from what I have seen so far it is going to be great space for our crew and opportunities for future developments.

A special thank you to Morena and Georgia. I have asked for extra effort for projects since December and they have come through as usual.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Simon Moltoni on 0447 141 752 or email simon@wapotatoes.com.au

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Farm biosecurity don’t wait until it’s too late

D

BY DR SONYA BROUGHTON CHIEF PLANT BIOSECURITY OFFICER, DPIRD

etection of the fungal potato disease Dickeya dianthicola in Western Australia in 2017 was a poignant lesson in how less than stringent on-farm biosecurity practices can very easily lead to the spread of pests and diseases, that can remain undetected until it is too late. f FARM biosecurity is the best protection against pests and diseases

Decrease biosecurity risks by developing a comprehensive on-farm biosecurity plan.

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The 2017 Dickeya dianthicola detection was the first time it had ever been found in Australia. By the end of 2017, the disease had been detected in WA in seed potato crops on five properties and in dahlia tubers, and in freesia and dahlia bulbs in Victoria.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) response to the detections found that 64 properties in WA were linked to movements to and from the infected properties, as well as movements to and from Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia.

As a result, the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests and National Management Group decided it was not technically feasible to eradicate.

DPIRD Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer, Sonya Broughton said the incident highlighted the large volume of movements onto and off properties that producers may not think about, such as the containers being used to transport produce, or dead plant material being disposed of off-site.

“This creates enormous potential for one infected tuber to transfer the disease to a large number of other properties, and even to other states,” Dr Broughton said.

“The only safeguard would have been better on-farm biosecurity, which is only effective if all practices are of a high standard and adhered to.

“Failure to carry out a single practice can potentially lead to the introduction of a destructive pest or disease.”

WA POTATOES

“Growers can no longer afford to see biosecurity as an impost. It should be a business decision. Prevention is better than the cure, or worse, better than not having the cure and having to live with it.”

Lessons learned The 2017 Dickeya dianthicola incident not only highlighted additional spread pathways not previously considered, but also the need for a broader range of biosecurity practices. Some of the lessons learned included: f HYGIENE measures are just one of a range of biosecurity practices that should be implemented on-farm.

f DISEASES such as Dickeya dianthicola could devastate farm businesses.

· Always be aware of a disease or pest host range. While Dickeya dianthicola was detected initially in potatoes, it was subsequently found to have a large and surprising host range, which included dahlias and freesias, and could very easily be transferred from one host to the other. Tracing throughout WA and Victoria highlighted a pathway of spread between all three hosts. · Hosts may not always show symptoms.

The only way to prevent spread is to implement biosecurity practices that are in place at all times, not just during an incursion.

Shared responsibility Dr Broughton said many people think of biosecurity as Government imposed quarantine restrictions at international and state border entry points.

“The WA Government is putting more resources into border controls, including an investment of $15.1 million last year to enhance the pest surveillance, preparedness and response work being undertaken

by DPIRD.

“The best kind of biosecurity system is based on a shared responsibility for the protection of WA.” Dr Broughton said in the case of Dickeya dianthicola, the most likely pathway was the import of infected nursery stock tubers into Australia.

“But the subsequent spread from farm to farm, and state to state, was a case study in what not to do. Biosecurity is not just about compliance, or having a few restrictions on the movement of vehicles and people between paddocks. At the very least growers should have a biosecurity plan that covers all aspects of their operations.”

At the very least growers should have a biosecurity plan that covers all aspects of their operations.

“However, the risk of exotic plant pest and disease incursions is ever present.

Biosecurity needs to be a multi-layered activity including before- and afterborder practices that every Australian should be playing a part in, including growers,” she said.

“At the end of the day, it is the grower who will have to manage a pest or disease and will be responsible for spread if their farm biosecurity practices are not up to scratch.”

Dr Broughton said protection from pests and diseases was only possible if everyone worked together.

Dr Broughton said the risk was real. Growers should see on-farm biosecurity as an insurance policy and profit provider. It needs to become part of business planning, due to the high economic consequences of an incursion.

“There is a growing biosecurity risk in Australia due to the ongoing increase of freight and people coming over our borders.

· Biosecurity practices need to incorporate every possible pathway.

Possible pathways of Dickeya dianthicola in WA were found to be bacteria that had been released into the soil, infected stems not being removed from soil between rotations, transfer to neighbouring tubers through water in the soil, and spread to other plants through contaminated irrigation water. · Storage is also a potential pathway.

Dickeya dianthicola infection was found to have been transferred from one host to another during storage.

Biosecurity plans Visiting the Farm Biosecurity website — farmbiosecurity.com.au — is an excellent starting point to developing a comprehensive on-farm biosecurity plan.

Publications on the website, such as the Potato Growers Biosecurity Manual, recommend simple procedures for dayto-day operations that will significantly decrease biosecurity risks.

A biosecurity checklist is also available from the Farm Biosecurity website, or alternatively the free FarmBiosecurity app (farmbiosecurity.com.au/ farmbiosecurity-app) can be used to create a tailor-made plan.

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Biosecurity plans are essential to being able to prevent, or respond quickly to pest or disease incursions.

Every farm is different and requires different practices. The first step in the planning process should be to identify risks and gaps in each property’s biosecurity preparedness, assess strengths and weaknesses, and identify the actions needed.

Plans should include not only movement restrictions, but also production related protocols.

Movement · Restrict movement of people, equipment and machinery onto your property, and from one part of your property to another. · Put in place protocols and hygiene measures for the movement of potatoes, equipment, vehicles, machinery, people (clothing and footwear) onto and off your property, and between paddocks.

· Develop hygiene measures for buildings, bins and boxes.

· Apply fungicidal seed treatment.

· Have in place guidelines for the safe disposal of plant material.

· Familiarise yourself with pests and diseases, even those not present in WA or Australia.

· Keep accurate records of seeds and plant material moving onto and off your property. · Conduct biosecurity training for staff. · Maintain a visitor register.

Crop management · Avoid wounding during seed cutting, planting and harvest.

· Ensure adequate ventilation in storage.

· Check crops regularly and IMMEDIATELY report anything you don’t recognise.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Laura Fagan on 0449 979 078 or email laura.fagan@dpird.wa.gov.au.

· Avoid wet conditions during harvest to prevent soil from sticking to tuber skins. · Ensure adequate drainage in fields. · Have effective pest and weed management programs. · Manage soil pH where appropriate. · Source seed and bulbs from reputable suppliers. · Visually inspect any seed or bulbs purchased.

Report your observations!

MyPestGuide® Reporter via online or app mypestguide.agric.wa.gov.au Pest and Disease Information Service (08) 9368 3080 padis@dpird.wa.gov.au

Fresh market, seed Fresh market & potatopotato & onion seed storage ALL YEAR ROUND AVAILABLE: NOVEMBER TO MARCH

Donnybrook WA

Anthony Scaffidi 0417 919 906 tscaffidi@optusnet.com.au 56

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POTATOES and the

P

otato is the third most important food crop in the world after rice and wheat in terms of human consumption1.

More than a billion people worldwide eat potato, and global total crop production exceeds 300 million metric tons. Potato is also critical in terms of food security in the face of population growth.

Potatoes are known for being cost-effective, versatile, and nutritious.

However, many people are not aware that potatoes are also friendly for the planet.

A sustainable food for the world James Cook University defines sustainability as the ability to maintain healthy environmental, social and economic systems in balance, indefinitely, on a global and local scale2.

Recent analysis3 of the sustainability of potatoes as a food source, shared

by Potatoes New Zealand, has demonstrated that “potatoes score very well on environmental impact, producing less CO2, lower nitrate leaching and requiring less water to produce than legumes, wheat, or rice. Spuds also require less area to grow, and 5kg can be produced in 1m², about ¼ of the area for equivalent in rice and much less than needed to produce a kilogram of legumes.”

planet

Indeed, Carbon Brief4 reported in August 2021 that a new study published in Nature Food demonstrated that a dietary shift from rice to potatoes in China, could “notably reduce” the climate and environmental impacts of staple crop agriculture. The research finding that “a large-scale dietary shift towards potatoes, combined with better growing methods, could reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of these staples by up to 25%”.

More sustainable than rice or pasta?

AUSVEG5 summarised research showing potatoes are good for the environment, with a published paper indicating that potato production is more environmentally sustainable than pasta and rice.

“Potatoes were shown to have the lowest levels of greenhouse gas emissions when compared to both pasta and rice.

Potatoes were also shown to have significantly lower levels of overall water usage than rice.”

Sustainable farming in WA In Western Australia, many of our potato growers are embracing innovative and regenerative practises to maintain the integrity of their soil and ensure the sustainability of production for the future.

Potato production is more environmentally sustainable than pasta and rice.

The paper, conducted by researchers from Cranfield University in Bedfordshire, England and published in the Journal of Cleaner Production, considered both greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption when growing the three food types, with potatoes proving to have the least negative impact on the environment.

“The researchers analysed a large amount of data from many sources to produce an accurate estimate on the environmental impact of growing potatoes, pasta and rice, based on their greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption,” said AUSVEG spokesperson Shaun Lindhe.

Quinninup grower Glen Ryan is passionate about potatoes and is concentrating on setting up the soil and soil biology for the upcoming crop.

He implements a range of regenerative practises to reduce use of fertilisers including adding specific biological inputs at certain stages. Cultivating at designated points during the potato plant growth also aids in stimulating microbes, reducing weeds, increasing drainage around the tubers and incorporating any top up fertilisers.

Stronger, healthier plants can ward off disease and pest incursions much easier. A well developed and extensive root system aids in this, as well as increases its ability to source nutrients and water.

MORE INFORMATION More information about the sustainability of potatoes will be added to the WA Potatoes website in the near future.

1 CIP: https://cipotato.org/potato/ 2 James Cook University: www.jcu.edu.au/tropeco-sustainability-in-action/about/what-is-sustainability 3 Potatoes NZ: https://potatoesnz.co.nz/news-info/articles/wpm-special-report-potatoes-a-crucial-and-sustainable-crop/ 4 CarbonBrief: www.carbonbrief.org/dietary-shift-to-potatoes-could-cut-staple-crop-emissions-in-china-by-25 5 AUSVEG: https://ausveg.com.au/media-releases/potatoes-more-environmentally-sustainable-than-pasta-rice/

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World Potato Congress Ireland, 30 May – 2 June 2022

Y

ou can’t afford to miss this one. Fertilisers, fuel, electricity, labour, cardboard, plastic, trucks and containers — all rising in cost.

Where is all this going and when is it going to stop? Is it going to stop?

Come to the World Potato Congress (WPC) in Ireland next May and you just might find out. A panel of over 50 speakers representing the seed, fresh table and processed potato sectors from 20 different countries will discuss not only rising costs, but also crucial topics

like sustainability, climate change, the decreasing range of plant protection products, smart farming and smart supermarkets to mention just a few. The Congress emphasis will be on potato production as a business and how you can improve your bottom line.

During the week, Congress delegates will have open access to the brightest and best of Ireland’s potato industry in the form of technical tours.

because there is clearly a huge appetite for a full live in-person potato event.

If you are reading this in Australia and you are of Irish ancestry, chances are your forefathers left Ireland because of the potato. If you plan on coming to the WPC you will be returning home again because of the potato.

In any case, all Australians who come will be made honorary Irish persons for the week of the Congress and will receive the mother and father of Irish welcomes.

50 speakers representing the seed, fresh table and processed potato sectors.

In the past 10 days or so, interest in the event has soared linked no doubt to the lifting of COVID and travel restrictions in many countries. This timing is impeccable

Networking? No better location than Ireland. After all, we invented it — centuries ago.

f THE Congress emphasis will be on potato production as a business and how you can improve your bottom line.

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WA POTATOES

30TH MAY - 2ND JUNE 2022 www.wpc2022ireland.com

The 11th World Potato Congress 30 May - 2 June 2022, Dublin, Ireland

The Changing World of the Potato WPC Inc. and the Irish Potato Federation are pleased to invite you to the 11th World Potato Congress (WPC 2022) in Dublin, Ireland.

This is the world’s leading event for potato professionals and offers an opportunity for delegates to gain a unique insight into the future of the rapidly changing world of the potato.

WPC 2022 will bring together industry leaders, researchers, NGO’s and producers and will provide a unique platform to network, make new business connections and engage with a global potato audience.

WPC 2022 will be held in conjunction with the 2022 Europatat Congress.

Main Congress Topics: » Key Market Trends » Opportunities for Growth » Latest Technology Developments

» » » »

Agronomy Sustainability The Green Consumer Development and Food Security

WPC 2022 registration is open! » Various social events, tours and accommodation can be booked during the registration process. » Visit www.wpc2022ireland.com for further details.

Follow us on social media to stay up to date @wpc2022ireland

See you in Ireland in 2022!

www.wpc2022ireland.com

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GROWER PROFILE:

The Bendotti Family

I

n 1930 the first Bendotti families arrived in Pemberton from Italy and started growing potatoes on just a few hectares of land. Now, with over 300 years of collective experience the Bendotti family has grown hundreds of varieties with a special focus on high quality processing types for the crisping and fry markets.

Their production is now over 10,000 tonnes annually, manufacturing a wide range of products under the WA Chip and Bendotti Exporters brands as well as private labels.

Prior to 2002 Bendotti spuds were a sought-after product with potatoes being supplied to many local factories and exported to several large processors throughout SE Asia.

In April 2002 the business extended their range, purchasing a French fry line locally. In subsequent years they invested approximately $10 million in new processing equipment, to secure a future for potato growers in the southwest of Western Australia.

Bendotti’s policy of continuous sampling of raw and processed products ensures only the highest standards of quality control are maintained. Their unique cooking system enables them to claim their French Fries are 97% Fat Free.

The farms The Bendotti’s own and lease many large properties in the Pemberton region, which is renowned for its rich, loamy soils and excellent annual rainfall. The Bendotti families also hold significant investments in beef cattle and engage in domestic and export activities.

Developing new potato varieties is also key to Bendotti’s success in the global and domestic marketplace and they are constantly importing, bulking up

and trialling new varieties from around the world to help improve buyer and grower returns.

Growing potatoes Caring for the land is extremely important as it ensures continuous production of a high quality and high yielding crop, with minimal impact on the environment.

Producing potatoes with a higher nutrient density with minimal pesticide, fungicide and herbicide applications has been a priority plan for the Bendotti family for the past 7 years, with many potatoes now being produced through innovative techniques.

Bendotti potatoes are also farmed with rotation. This allows the land to re-build the nutrient and biological base required to maintain its natural balance.

The harvested crop is then moved a short distance to Bendotti Exporters, WA CHIP, processing centre where they are washed and graded then either packed for delivery to market or used for the perfect tasting French Fry, and/or value-added products.

Summary The Bendotti's commitment to the industry and reinvestment in new state of the art equipment is ensuring that a premium product is produced for consumers. The current capital investment program will enable Bendotti Exporters to continue to streamline manufacturing, storage, and distribution in Australia and around the world and provide markets with consistently high-quality produce year-round.

It is also important to note that due to being locally grown and processed, there are no supply disruptions anticipated.

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WA POTATOES

The Bendotti family production is over 10,000 tonnes annually.

Where to enjoy WA Chip chips?

DISTRIBUTORS:

WA Chip sell to the food service industry, servicing restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs and more as well as to international markets. You can try them for yourself at a range of venues, or by contacting one of their WA distributors to buy direct.

Manjimup & Surrounds

· Festival Fish

· Johnson Food Services

· Fins Seafood Factory

Bunbury, Busselton & Surrounds

· MBL Food Services

· Bidfood, formerly Craven Foods

· Poseidon Seafoods

· Dardanup Butchering Company

· Sealanes

· PFD · Sealanes · Staley Food & Packaging Albany · Grande Foods · PFD Perth Metropolitan area, Mandurah & Pinjarra · Atmos Foods · Choice Chips · Endeavour Foods

· New West Foods · Supa Chip · Superstock · Variety Foods · WA Distributors · Weststate Seafoods · Westoz Foods Perth Hills · Hillseafood Wholesale Food Merchants Mid-West · Sweetmans Hardware Three Springs

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Recipe Loaded baked potato soup

This simple potato soup is the perfect blank canvas for any number of flavour additions.

Serves 6 | Prep time 15 minutes | Cook time 25 minutes INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Soup

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot. Add bacon pieces and cook until crispy or to your liking.

1 tbsp olive oil 125g bacon diced 1 brown onion, diced 1 carrot, diced 2 celery sticks, diced 1 clove garlic chopped 2 tablespoon all purpose flour 6 medium white potatoes, peeled and chopped into 3cm pieces 6 cups chicken stock OR use broth for a more tummy friendly version 1 cup whole milk Salt and pepper to taste Toppings Cooked bacon pieces (as outlined above) 6 tbsp sour cream 1 corn cob, steamed and kernels removed 1 cup grated Monterey or smoked cheddar 2 spring onions, finely sliced ½ cup plain corn chips, crushed Hot sauce, to taste

2. Remove bacon pieces and drain on paper towel, leaving rendered fat in the pan.

3. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in the bacon fat until lightly browned and softened (about 5 minutes).

4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly. Slowly add the stock and milk, stirring to combine. Add the diced potatoes and stir.

5. Bring to a low boil, then let the mixture simmer until the potatoes are tender and can be pierced with a fork. Using a stick blender, puree the soup to desired consistency. Alternatively, you can puree the soup in a blender in small batches.

6. If you use the blender, return soup to pan over low heat.

7. Serve the soup with the outlined toppings or get creative and add your own flavour bomb.

Perfect with:

white potato varieties

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Tip

ADD A LITTLE TEX MEX MAGIC TO CREATE A LOADED STYLE POTATO SOUP.

f LOADED baked potato soup with charred corn, bacon, cheese, spring onion, hot sauce and sour cream

PHOTOS: VICTORIA BAKER PHOTOGRAPHER

POMEWEST

pome

update Pomewest

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POMEWEST

contacts Committee and Officers

Jason Jarvis, Chair e: twinpack@bigpond.com Mario Casotti e: mario@casottigroup.com Wayne Ghilarducci e: strathspey@modnet.com.au Jason Jarvis e: twinpack@bigpond.com Harvey Giblett e: harvey.giblett@newtonorchards.com.au Sam Licciardello e: sam@orchard1sixty.com.au Mark Scott e: markpscott@bigpond.com Susie Murphy White, Project Manager e: susan.murphy-white@dpird.wa.gov.au Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager e: nardia@pomewest.net.au

Budgeted income 2021–22 Project General Account Budget (including FFS, interest Project Grant Funding APAL, Hort Innovation and DPIRD) Biosecurity Account Budget (FFS and interest)

$ 482,780 61,245

Budgeted expenditure general account for 2021–22

Project $ Project Manager including operating expenses — 96,000 Susie Murphy White Quality Testing Project — Maturity and Retail 36,000 Building Horticulture Business Capacity Program 20,000 Medfly Surveillance Trapping Network Kim James 12,500 Systems Approach Low Pest prevalence for 40,000 Market Access Promotion & Publicity Local Project — Fresh Finesse 37,500 including events with Buy West Eat Best Annual Meetings and Communication including 15,000 publications Industry Sponsorships and Association Memberships 6,000 Study Tour COVID-19 permitting 20,000 Producing Sustainable Crop Load Project — DPIRD 30,000 Platform Project 40,000 Administration including salary and office costs 192,000 APC charge @10% of FFS income 42,000 Total 587,000

Budgeted expenditure biosecurity account 2021–22 Project Codling Moth (DPIRD) APC charge @10% of FFS income Total

$ 35,500 6,000 41,500

APC fee-for-service charge

POME FRUIT EFFECTIVE FROM 1 JANUARY 2015 Type of fruit Fresh fruit — apples, pears, Nashi, other Processing fruit Biosecurity FFS for fresh fruit Biosecurity FFS for processing fruit

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Season update

$/kg 0.015 0.005 0.002 0.001

H

The agricultural industry has been classified as a critical service of the State.

BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE MANAGER, POMEWEST

appy 2022 from our team to our growers and stakeholders.

It’s harvest time, and again, the pandemic continues to test us. Nobody knows how, or when to predict the end of the COVID-19 assault, but what we do know is that scarcity in our labour force is already in play, and the next phase in balancing fully viable operations with the threat of infections, and duty of care to the wider community will be challenging for all WA businesses.

As a disclaimer — it is difficult to report on and predict the future.

The current situation may alter after writing this update, which is indicative of the rapid ever changing COVID management environment the world still faces. Whilst we hope for a quickfix to ongoing disruptions and added challenges, this article may serve as record in history of the general feeling of the industry now.

Something to be grateful for is that WA, to date, has been well isolated and well protected from the full impact of lockdowns with the economy remaining largely intact. However, most indicators point to the fact that this may soon change for all of us.

It is the general view of the current State Government to manage the full impact of this new wave of Omicron by implement a high vaccination status and manage the spread, not the ‘let it rip.’ strategy adopted by other countries and states. There is a transition plan to opening our borders, which defines new protocols formatted from learnings from the East Coast for our critical workers in high caseload environments.

It is good to know that the agricultural industry has been classified as a critical service of the State. We are more fortunate than most as we are able to voice our concerns, and they can be heard at the highest level.

Pomewest will continue its role in keeping you up to date of all the latest developments for the Agricultural Industry and to let you know you are not alone in many your concerns; these are widespread in the sector. The best defence we can take as an industry is being well informed, prepared and measured in the handling and working within the confines of directions.

In doing so, our 2022 harvest can be completed, without too many casualties. In the meantime, please continue to keep us aware of any issues you need us to clarify or consider on any industry matters.

POMEWEST

Season so far…

The 2021–22 season started with a very wet and cold winter, followed by wet and mild spring in 2021. Most growing regions received below average winter chill portions and above average rainfall in all locations. As such water supply was at capacity with dams overflowing by the end of spring. Good thing too, as the heatwave during the Christmas and New Year week saw average temperatures rise above 38ºC for 5 days (39ºC–41ºC) in Donnybrook through to the Perth Hills. Slightly cooler in Manjimup and Pemberton (35ºC–38ºC). Then again, a five-day heatwave mid-January. The winter supply was used to manage the impact of several summer heat waves.

Just recently a labour hire group has been able to supply a large group of 18 workers to finish off the thinning within a week in a couple of orchards.

Some sharing of workers between other industries and neighbouring farms is occurring, which is pleasing to note.

The new season also challenges our Maturity Standards program managing the early fruit. We are committed to continue holding growers accountable for their part in providing good quality tasting fruit into the market and providing the best start to the season.

Many growers would have received certificates for excellent testing results for last season, keep up the good work.

Some sun damage in fruit has occurred as a result from the heat. However, the increased amount of permanent netting structures completed this year has protected most of the fruit. Preventative protectant sprays started before the heatwave and some blocks still to be thinned post-Christmas were also beneficial strategies for some growers.

It was pleasing to see that the federal horticulture netting infrastructure scheme for pome in this State, was fully subscribed

by December.

An extremely successful result. The funding program has over $1.6M of net constructed in WA and the netting contractors are extremely busy as a result — so much so that the price of netting has gone up, in fact it has doubled due to supply and demand created by the scheme.

Pomewest is the pome subcommittee of the pome, citrus and stone fruit Producers’ Committee of the Agricultural Produce Commission in Western Australia

OF APPRECIATION

AWARDED TO

In recognition for consistently passing the minimum maturity standards for Royal Gala, Granny Smith and Pink LadyTM apples in the 2021 season.

On behalf of the WA Pome Industry, we thank you for embracing this initiative and for your commitment in making WA apples great apples and the No. 1 choice for quality.

Keep up the great work in 2022.

Jason Jarvis Chair

The netting infrastructure scheme program has over $1.6M of net constructed in WA.

Although an off-crop year, pleasingly the signs are indicating that is not that much less affected than the previous season.

The crop presented heavy with a good amount of hand thinning required. Good quality apples, very clean crops, with little pest and disease issues apart from weevils which started to appear in late January.

Labour supply is still light, with most using Pacific Islanders and topping up with locals if needed. Smaller orchards which do not have the set up for seasonal labour have sourced longer-term locals and are working with a smaller crew.

We have included in this edition our notice to industry and the supply chain to advise the start of the 2022 quality program to remind everyone of our commitment to providing quality produce to our consumers.

The annual APC Project call process has commenced, and we remind everyone that the project selection will be influenced by the strategic plan from 2021–2025 key objectives which align with tactics to improve productivity and profitability for our growers. The focus remains to be the improvement of Class 1 pack outs for both apples and pears, increasing household spending trends, and building exports. We have prioritised some tactics and will be looking at developing and investing in projects that will assist us to deliver these outcomes.

Events and meetings We are keen to support various events.

However, many are under a cloud with the ever-present threat of COVID. So far, our post-harvest seminar and the summer/autumn future orchard walk have been postponed. It is too risky to bring industry together prior to harvest in this ever-changing environment.

We are still waiting to hear about the Cider Conference in the Perth Hills in late April. Whatever the outcome, we will endeavour to support growers with the promotion of product wherever possible, even if our presence at events cannot take place. Meetings, including Committee meetings are predicted to be online in the foreseeable future until we understand the impact of spread of this new variant.

This edition We review the November 2021 Future Orchard Walk held at Ladycroft Orchards in Manjimup. Can I take this opportunity to thank to Bec Whittaker and her staff for hosting such a great day. It was nice to see cross-industry representation from Citrus and Stone fruit industry officers at the event. We hope to engage in more cross-industry engagement in 2022 and support other industry field days.

We also include an opinion piece on how some of the grower and packing businesses are managing the Omicron outbreak in the Eastern States where the border restrictions have been relaxed.

Some excellent practical advice has been shared with us to assist us with the impact of greater infections of the virus in the community.

I would like finish by inviting any grower or stakeholder to contact me if you need any assistance with any industry matters. Both Susie and I are committed to our service roles for the pome industry and always welcome your engagement and feedback.

I wish everyone success with the upcoming season and hope to see you on the other side with good prices and marketing success for the duration of 2022.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager, 0411 138 103 or nardia@pomewest.net.au

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OPINION PIECE ON THE PRACTICAL EXPERIENCES FROM THE EAST COAST APPLE AND PEAR GROWERS ABOUT LIVING WITH COVID-19.

Develop your own workable family risk management plan.

Overcoming

Omicron

BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE MANAGER, POMEWEST

A

s the WA Pome industry will potentially be facing a battle with harvest and Omicron simultaneously, it is timely to understand how the East Coast of Australia have managed the situation so far.

Pomewest have been privileged to gather some powerful insights from leading growers in the East on the impact of Omicron so far and the risk management practices that have proved to be effective.

DISCLAIMER: THIS ARTICLE REPRESENTS THE VIEWS AND INFORMATION CURRENT AT THE TIME OF WRITING.

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The West Australian State Government has now acknowledged the new management strategy for the State is to not stop but slow the spread of the Omicron variant in the WA community.

This variant is tipped to spread quickly.

The following is a summary of some of the top strategies that have helped growers prepare, with ideas and examples of how you can take some control to manage your business.

Your household The focus on pack sheds and orchards seems to be the priority, however, if someone in your own household contracts the virus you must plan on how you manage isolation without the whole family household being in quarantine.

Develop your own workable family risk management plan to keep yourself

safe from infection, consider planning segregation zoning measures, understand the impact of risk of attending highly-transmissible events, traveling to regions etc.

Team meets Have daily team discussions to keep keen awareness and avoid complacency to maintain workable compliance for staff and workers. Increase awareness of cleaning and hygiene practices including mask wearing, hand washing, policy on travelling in cars or being in close proximity and social distancing.

Outdoor complacency Do not allow people working outdoors to become complacent simply because they are working outdoors. Some growers in the East are having bigger problems in their orchards than in pack houses where they can have >150 people under one roof at any given time.

POMEWEST

This is largely to do with seasonal worker cohorts living together in bulk accommodation settings where the virus is spreading quickly, and then spreading it to other orchard staff who are lax with PPE, social distancing, sanitising etc.

Many of said employees have lulled themselves into a false sense of security that the virus is only an “indoor” problem, but they have been underestimating the amount of close interaction they have with their co-workers on a day-to-day basis.

Out of work activities Discuss ‘out of work’ activities and compliance of check-ins, masks, travelling in cars and social distancing to avoid bring the virus to work.

normally require during harvest (granted not easy in current environment, but you’ll need multiple contingencies).

You could have the most robust COVIDSafe-Plan of all time in the orchard and pack house, but COVID will still affect your business in that you have no control over what people do in their own time.

Keep your communications open and regular with staff.

Develop your on-farm visitor policy Assess the risk of transport spread of the virus — this may include limiting entry to site and making sure you record visitor details, interaction or any contact.

For example, look to find paperless transactions if possible or decide not to allow any visitors at all. Increase signage around your premises to make sure you are managing visitors for any contact tracing investigation.

Manage and potentially restrict travel between regions — encourage application of ‘Good2Go’ passes.

Encourage ongoing Yes, you may prevent it from spreading in your workplace, but your workers can still contract COVID away from work, or they will be close contacts, and you will need to replace them temporarily. f SOME growers in the East are having bigger problems in their orchards than in pack houses.

f DO not allow people working outdoors to become complacent simply because they are working outdoors.

Manage duties

Consider staff segregation, split work duties, lunch and tea breaks to limit social interaction between staff, if possible. Develop rosters for keeping one machine or one task for one staff operator to manage any contamination.

vaccinations for workers and employees.

Plan for labour shortages Expect, plan and prepare to have labour shortages. Try to have access to at least 1.5 times the headcount you would

Rapid Antigen Testing If possible, implement regular Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) if available. This is a practical way to manage infections, which can be expensive to implement, but ultimately cost-effective if you are facing the risk of closure if multiple staff are required to isolate.

We know that temperature tests are of limited value because they can’t determine COVID infection — that is high-temperature readings do not always mean you have COVID-19.

Vaccinations Encourage ongoing vaccinations for workers and employees by giving time way from site without taking sick or annual leave.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager, 0411 138 103 or nardia@pomewest.net.au.

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Technology flying high at Future ® Orchards Walk

L

BY SUSIE MURPHY WHITE PROJECT MANAGER, POMEWEST

adycroft orchard in Manjimup was the host for APAL’s Spring Future Orchards® Orchard Walk, showcasing a range of strategies, innovations and technology options that may assist with decision-making in the orchard.

The now Pink Lady® royalty funded Future Orchards® program is offering growers a wider range of guest speakers from a local pool of experts, as COVID keeps us operating more locally in Western Australia.

CSBP’s AgTech services Agronomists Andreas Neuhaus and Ashley Juers were the guest speakers for the day, presenting about the value of soil mapping and how it can be used to make decisions for soil and plant health.

The presentation included a demonstration of the Decipher Ag mapping platform which can be used for record-keeping of soil test data, determining management zones, sampling points, and viewing peak biomass.

We joined the virtual National Orchard Talk in the Ladycroft shed, where Craig Hornblow (AgFirst) and Nic Finger (Fruit Help) discussed how to achieve fruit quality outcomes using the data collected during the season.

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Crop estimates, fruit size and hand thinning numbers can be useful to make more informed decisions for orchard management and options available (tools, technology) for collecting data. As always, the presentations can be found on the Future Orchards library and on the APAL YouTube channel.

Automated custom built multipurpose tracked vehicle.

The surprise demonstration for growers was by Christian Sieber from Omnidrones, demonstrating the XAG agriculture solutions. This included their automated

f OMNIDRONES Rover, unmanned ground vehicle traversing down the rows.

custom-built multipurpose tracked vehicle used to transport equipment around the orchard. Then the Rover, unmanned ground vehicle traversed down the rows and spraying water over the apple trees. This vehicle had only just been unboxed and was very new to their fleet.

The demonstration finished with the drone spraying system which was designed for aerial application to seed mine sites and apply plant protection products for agriculture. All were controlled by the operator’s mobile

POMEWEST

The Future Orchards® program is offering growers a wider range of guest speakers.

f SOIL Your Undies Challenge, wall of dirty undies.

phone, with the capability of using either aerial photography or the satellite soil mapping that had been done in the DecipherAg® program that we had seen demonstrated earlier by Andreas and Ashley. Growers were most impressed with the demonstration and keen to see how it could be applied in apple and pear orchards.

Then the undies came out from the Soil Your Undies Challenge; the decomposed undies were pinned up to reveal how decomposition had occurred during the 10-week challenge.

Some looked like thongs with all the cotton eaten away! No firm conclusions were made from the trial, but in any case, the measurement and understanding of soil health and its benefits to the tree made as an interesting discussion within the group.

The presentations were followed by a tour of Ladycroft orchard to explore the new plantings and PIPS3 demonstration site.

Growers were able to see the new planting of 27,000 Cosmic Crisp® apples on a steel framed V trellis, which was very impressive. The progress of the twin leader Bravo™ planting was discussed with Marcel Veens. The PIPS3 soil health demonstration site was viewed by all.

This site includes different inter row and under tree treatments monitoring insects and soil properties.

Ladycroft Orchard hosted an extremely successful future orchard event, with many local growers from Kirup — Pemberton attending the day.

Thank you to Bec, Shaun and all the orchard team at Ladycroft for providing us with a great venue and for opening up their orchard to show case the trials and look at the new infrastructure and their exciting young plantings.

MORE INFORMATION

f BEC Whittaker, Ladycroft Orchard Manager, talking about training of Cosmic Crisp® apples onto a V Trellis.

Contact Susie Murphy White, Project Manager — Pomewest, on 0429 413 420 or susan.murphy-white@dpird.wa.gov.au.

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POMEWEST

POMEWEST IS THE POME SUBCOMMITTEE OF THE POME, CITRUS, AND STONE FRUIT PRODUCERS’ COMMITTEE OF THE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE COMMISSION IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Apple Industry Notice TO: APPLE PRODUCERS, WHOLESALERS, STORE MANAGERS, PRODUCE BUYERS, FRESH PRODUCE MANAGERS

BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE MANAGER, POMEWEST

2022 WA Quality Inspections have commenced for Gala, Granny Smith, and Pink Lady® apples

Industry led testing has commenced to ensure that three commodity apple lines, Gala, Granny Smith, and Pink Lady® have industry endorsed minimum maturity standards when presented for sale (standard chart below). Inspections are funded by the Agricultural Produce Commission Fee for Service collection for Pome fruit.

Testing promotes confidence that these varieties meet consumer taste satisfaction and will encourage repeat sales.

Minimum maturity standards

Firmness (Kg-f)

Meeting consumer taste satisfaction will encourage repeat sales.

Starch index score (6 point scale) Total soluble solids (°Brix)

Gala

Granny Smith

Pi nk Lady

6.5

6.5

6.5

3

3

3

11.8

11

13

TM

The above standards have been endorsed by the WA Pome industry as part of industry self-regulation practice and follows the parameters of existing quality programs already running nationally for the table grape and citrus industries.

We invite your participation in the program. It is our intention to report to you test results, work with you to address any fails. We would encourage you to establish with your suppliers that fruit sold to you has passed these standards.

POMEWEST IS COMMITTED TO ENSURE THE APPLE INDUSTRY PROVIDES QUALITY APPLES TO MARKET. POMEWEST IS A POME GROWER SUB-COMMITTEE OF THE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE COMMISSION — SERVING THE WA POME GROWERS.

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The end goal is to encourage repeat purchases with great eating experiences for our customers to promote increased consumption, product demand, sales and returns for the entire supply chain.

MORE INFORMATION If you require further information, please contact: Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager, 0411 138 103 or nardia@pomewest.net.au.

WA CITRUS

citrus

update WA Citrus

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WA CITRUS

contacts WA Citrus Committee

Producer Committee Members Joseph Ling, Chair m: 0417 828 238 e: chair@wacitrus.com.au Shane Kay

Keeping food in the fruit bowl, lunchbox and plate of WA.

Mary Ann O’Connor Andrew Pergoliti Cliff Winfield Daniel Ying

WA Citrus Office Building 98, 3 Baron-Hay Court, SOUTH PERTH WA 6151 Bronwyn Walsh, Industry Development Manager m: 0400 873 875 e: industrymanager@wacitrus.com.au Kate Cox, Administrative Services m: 0439 899 600 e: admin@wacitrus.com.au

From the

Helen Newman, Biosecurity Representative e: biosecurity@wacitrus.com.au Elbe Coetsee, Industry Development Officer (APC) e: elbe.coetsee@dpird.wa.gov.au

about

WA Citrus is the industry body representing citrus growers and industry in Western Australia.

WA Citrus aims to: • Assist in the development of a profitable and sustainable citrus industry in WA • Provide services, facilities and support to assist WA citrus growers supply premium citrus in the local, national and export markets • Assist with growing the consumption of WA citrus fruit

A

industry

BY JOSEPH LING CHAIR, WA CITRUS

mongst the turmoil of the summer, a bit of light comes from WA being fortunate enough to learn from the experiences on the east coast with the latest COVID variant.

The rolling announcements from the Premier’s office is a strong reminder to us all to review our Business Continuity Plans and practices for COVID Safe workplaces.

Bronwyn’s attendance at multiple COVID related meetings has highlighted that we are not alone as an industry in the frustration, confusion and challenges associated with keeping ourselves, our workplaces and businesses healthy while also keeping food in the fruit bowl, lunchbox and plate of WA. Another approaching challenge is adjusting our businesses for the decision from the Fair Work Commission that has set the date for

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changes to the Horticulture Award to Thursday 28th April 2022. This follows the announcement in November last year that workers on Australian farms will be guaranteed a minimum rate of pay. Also related to labour, the Australian AgVisa process is still unfolding and will complement the existing seasonal worker program.

Moving to some good news, WA oranges performed exceptionally well last year in the taste department and the challenge this year is to do the same in mandarins.

Read more in Elbe’s article later in this edition. Don’t forget your fee for service provides for testing before harvest.

As always please don’t hesitate to contact myself or one of the WA Citrus officers.

I encourage you all to stay safe.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Joseph Ling on 0417 828 238.

WA CITRUS

CitrusWatch: A new national biosecurity program

C

BY HELEN NEWMAN BIOSECURITY REPRESENTATIVE, WA CITRUS

itrusWatch is a new collaborative national program that aims to keep the biosecurity conversation going and protect the Australian citrus industry from harmful exotic pests.

It will extend its reach from commercial production zones, to highdensity, high-risk, high traffic urban and peri-urban regions, to support an early detector network both within the industry and throughout the general public more broadly.

The program will deliver: • A more coordinated approach to surveillance of high priority exotic pests in citrus.

• Industry training and information resources.

• Pest risk assessment and modelling.

“It’s great that WA is included in this program. Our early Asian Citrus Psyllid (ACP) trapping volunteers helped to make sure the program would be realistic and practical as well as useful for surveillance needs. Keep your eye out for details about upcoming training opportunities offered through

Protecting the Australian citrus industry from harmful exotic pests.

the program as well as opportunities to participate in sticky trap and targeted surveillance activities,” said Helen Newman, WA Citrus Biosecurity Representative.

While biosecurity may not be the most exhilarating conversation starter, it is one that needs regular air-time in our industry to minimise the risk to our businesses.

The CitrusWatch initiative is another example of providing evidence for our risk assessments and mitigation to protect our production base and supply chain.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Helen Newman at: biosecurity@wacitrus.com.au or go to https://citrusaustralia.com.au/growersindustry/quarantine-biosecurity

CITRUS FUND CitrusWatch is funded by Hort Innovation through the citrus R&D levy and Plant Health Australia (PHA) using the citrus plant health levy. It is led by PHA, with Citrus Australia coordinating program activities. The Northern Territory Department of Industry Tourism and trade (NT DITT) and research group Cesar Australia will provide surveillance, communication, and research support.

Special loans for farmers

T

BY BRONWYN WALSH INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, WA CITRUS

he Regional Investment Corporation (RIC) is an Australian Government-backed specialist finance provider for farmers and farm-related small businesses.

Their purpose is to provide loans that support the long-term strength, resilience, and profitability of Australian farm businesses.

“Our low-cost loans are available wherever you’re located in Australia and can be used to help invest in your farm business, mitigate drought, support new farmers to establish a farm business and farm succession planning,” says Steve McDougall, WA Engagement Manager, RIC. Since the RIC was established in July 2018, it has approved more than 95 total loans valued at over $107 million in Western Australia.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Steve on 0448 310 804 or by email steve.mcdougall@ric.gov.au or go to ric.gov.au/loans

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WA CITRUS

f TESTING showed on average 97% of WA oranges passed the taste test.

BY ELBÉ COETSEE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, APC

WA citrus fruit e t s a t n i s l e exc O ver the past 5 years, the fruit from WA citrus orchards has consistently had just the right ‘zing’ that consumers love.

Testing showed on average 97% of WA oranges passed the taste test.

As part of a national and state program, WA fruit gets randomly selected from wholesale and retail outlets and tested against these standards throughout the season.

What does this mean?

Results from the program over the past 5 years, show WA grown oranges had an average 97% pass rate for internal maturity. This is a great result, and we want to keep up this performance.

The strength of WA grown citrus, in the market, lies in consistent quality. This is true for both the local and overseas markets. Internal quality is measured against the Australian Citrus Quality standards which are set for juiciness and BrimA. BrimA is a measurement of the sugar and acid ratio, i.e., the ‘zing’.

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By maintaining these standards, we protect our industry, as consumers will have confidence in WA grown fruit.

Early in the season, fruit failed mostly due to low juice content and some granulation. As the season progresses, more fruit failed on BrimA levels (see Figure 1).

97%

WA oranges pass

Notorious for their variability, mandarins did not perform as well. WA grown mandarins only reached a pass rate above 90% in three out of five seasons.

At the industry meeting in November last year, a goal to reach a 95% pass rate for WA mandarins was set by the producer committee.

It is important that fruit only goes to the markets when they are at their best maturity levels.

How do we make sure WA citrus stays the best?

Growers can send samples of their fruit in for FREE internal quality assessment before harvest. This ensures fruit are at the best taste level when harvesting.

WA CITRUS

Be part of reaching the 95% goal — send your fruit in for testing!

f MEASURING the juice content.

100

97%

89%

PER CENT

80 60 40 20 0 Oranges

Mandarins

FIGURE 1. AVERAGE PASS RATE FOR WA GROWN FRUIT FOR THE PAST 5 YEARS.

This testing service is provided as part of the WA citrus Fee For Service paid by WA growers.

Results from the program showed growers who tested their fruit before harvesting, had less samples failing when fruit did get randomly tested at wholesale or retail level. Unfortunately, less than 50% of WA growers take advantage of this opportunity.

Be part of reaching the 95% goal — send your fruit in for testing!

f A Digital Brix meter to test sugar content in juice.

Why does it matter?

For every bad taste experience, it will take a consumer 6 weeks to go back to buying that fruit. This could be your fruit, or other WA fruit. By maintaining a high pass rate for all WA grown citrus, we can guarantee WA fruit to be the best and consumers will insist on WA grown fruit.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Elbé Coetsee at elbe.coetsee@ dpird.wa.gov.au or go to wacitrus.com.au.

We claim WA citrus tastes the best: “WAaaay Fresher” and “Buy West, Eat Best”. It’s time to prove it.

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WA CITRUS

How to get your fruit tested

BY ELBÉ COETSEE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, APC

Step 1: Collect a sample Collect at least 20 fruit. Your sample should be representative of what you plan to pick at harvest. For example: • Select pick: Collect fruit of the same size and colour of what you plan to pick.

• Strip pick: Collect an even mix of all the sizes and colours of the fruit.

Fruit should be from all sides of the tree as well as inside and outside the canopy and from at least 10 trees spread throughout the block.

The golden rule: spread it out as much as possible Label the bag:

✃

Step 2: Getting it tested

Submit the sample to Total Quality Assurance Systems (TQAS) in one of the following ways: • Direct delivery to their office any weekday before 12 noon at: TQAS, Unit 19, 87–91 Catalano Circuit, Canning Vale WA. • Send your sample to your market agent tenant of Market City in Canning Vale where TQAS collects daily.

The Step-by-step Testing Manual to Promote Australian Citrus Quality Standards as well as Australian Citrus Quality Standards can be downloaded from the WA Citrus website. Or contact WA Citrus for more information.

• Send it to your packhouse who then send it to TQAS as above.

Step 3: Compare your results to the Industry Standards TQAS will send growers the results from the maturity tests. If the standards are not met, fruit are not suitable for picking or marketing.

Testing WA Citrus Maturity Att: Chris Hall TQAS Grower name: Email:

............ .................................... ......................................

Variety: Block:

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............................ ......................................

...... .................................... ......................................

............ .................................... ......................................

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

MORE INFORMATION Go to wacitrus.com.au/activities/qualitymanagement/ or contact Elbé Coetsee at elbe.coetsee@dpird.wa.gov.au

PHOTO © AARSC-UNE

WA CITRUS

Can satellite imagery provide an accurate estimate of fruit yield?

BY DR LUZ ANGÉLICA SUÁREZ 1 , PROF ANDREW ROBSON 1 , BRONWYN WALSH 2 AND CRAIG SHEPHARD 1 1 UNIVERSITY OF NEW ENGLAND 2 WA CITRUS

R

ecent times have seen extensive labour shortages and supply chain disruption in horticultural industries, and as such being efficient with labour use is more important than ever.

Understanding crop load early in the season, allows growers to make appropriate management decisions regarding labour, storage and transport needs as well as for negotiating the marketing and selling their fruit.

Research conducted in citrus over the past 4 years by a collaborative team led by the University of New England’s Applied Agricultural Remote Sensing Centre (AARSC) investigated two methods that incorporate the use of satellite imagery for providing crop information to help with decision making.

Crop load estimates are traditionally done manually by growers when fruit is small and green, and can be time consuming and sometimes inaccurate, largely dependent on the number of trees assessed. The team found that technologies that rely on counting/ detecting fruit for yield estimations at this stage tended to fail due to the reduced ability to identify the fruits, which are green and can be obscured by branches and/ or leaves.

and predict future performance.

The accuracies have not only been highly encouraging, but this method allows forecasts to be made many months before actual harvest (around January) and does not require any field sampling.

The shortfalls of using lower resolution imagery (10m) is the inability to measure variability at the individual tree level.

“We’ve seen differences of between 25% and 50% fruit load on individual trees when we compared the manual counts at fruit set and again prior harvesting,” said Dr Luz Angélica Suárez.

Complementing the ‘time series’ yield forecasting, the research project has also tested high-resolution satellite imagery for estimating yield and yield variability at the individual tree and block level prior to harvesting.

This evaluation was conducted across a number of commercial farms in the main growing regions of WA, Vic and NSW. For WA, (2020 season), the average yield forecasting accuracy for Navel oranges was 91% (ranging from 86% to 99%) and for Mandarins was 87% (ranging from 70% and 96%) even on blocks with extremely high production (see Figure 1).

Using higher resolution satellite image for crop information prior to harvest

Manually estimating crop load can be inaccurate and time consuming.

Early yield forecast with lowresolution satellite imagery and no field sampling To avoid the errors associated with manual counting and the associated labour and time costs required to undertake these counts, the team developed a novel yield forecasting method that brings together historic ‘freely available’ satellite imagery of citrus farms with historic yields to better understand past growth patterns

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WA CITRUS

Yield forecasting approaches have been well received by the citrus industry.

120

YIELD (T/HA)

100 80 60 40 20 0

Block 1

Block 2

Block 3

Block 4

NAVEL ACTUAL

GROWER ESTIMATES

Block 5

Block 6 MANDARIN

Block 7

SATELLITE

FIGURE 1. COMPARISON OF YIELD VALUES FROM DIFFERENT SOURCES (HARVEST SEASON 2020): ACTUAL HARVEST, GROWER ESTIMATES AND SATELLITE ESTIMATED YIELD (A FEW WEEKS PRIOR HARVESTING).

Note: The block names have been modified to protect privacy of the participant growers.

FIGURE 2. DIGITAL MAPS SHOWING DIFFERENT STATISTICS GENERATED FOR THE GROVES AND INFORMATION AT THE TREE LEVEL. The team also provided growers the information in the form of digital maps of tree health and yield that can be easily queried to provide statistics of production (t/ha, fruit count, fruit size).

The calibration approach brings additional benefits and insights for farm management.

This approach only requires a minimum number of trees per management unit to be sampled. It also provides the location and extent of optimal and underperforming areas, that can help with decisions by focusing interventions.

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Both yield forecasting approaches have been well received by the citrus industry and have encouraged some of Australia’s largest growers to directly participate in the further evaluation and adoption of these technologies.

MORE INFORMATION This project is supported by Horticulture Innovation, through funding from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment as part of its Rural R&D for Profit program.

The project team would also like to thank the continued support of the many project collaborators including DPIRD, Citrus Australia, NSWDPI, CERES, and participating growers.

DPIRD website: Estimating your citrus crop load: factsheet and video: https://agric. wa.gov.au/n/1719 Project contact: • Dr Luz Angélica Suárez email lsuarezc@une.edu.au • Craig Shepard email cshepha2@une.edu.au • Prof. Andrew Robson email a robson7.une.edu.au

STONEFRUIT

stonefruit

update Stonefruit WA

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STONEFRUIT

contacts Stonefruit Sub-Committee Danny Di Marco, Chair e: dimarconson@gmail.com Anthony Fullam

e: afullam@wn.com.au

Bruno Delsimone

e: bdelsimone@mercermooney.com.au

Anthony Caccetta

e: antc83@hotmail.com

Mark Scott

e: markpscott@bigpond.com

Sebastian Fiolo

e: karragullen@bigpond.com

Mick Padula

e: mickpadula@yahoo.com.au

Robert Giumelli

e: juroorchard@live.com.au

Scarlet Roxby, Value Chain Facilitator

e: scarlet.roxby@perthnrm.com e: (08) 9374 3306

APC fee for service charge Stone fruit effective from 1 November 2009 Type of fruit

$/kg

All fresh stone fruit (apricots, cherries, loquats, nectarines, peaches and plums)

0.015

Processing fruit

0.006

News

For any future enquiries or to subscribe to the WA Stonefruit newsletter, please email shay.crouch@perthnrm.com

what’s on...

2022

New Value Chain Facilitator starts WHEN Late March

Committee Meeting WHEN Mid April

Project proposals presented to the committee

Stonefruit Season Launch

hits peak hour in the city

BY SCARLET ROXBY AND SHAY CROUCH VALUE CHAIN FACILITATORS, STONEFRUIT

O

nce again, representatives from throughout the supply chain came together for the annual season launch for West Australian stone fruit, celebrating the hard work of growers and the supply chain while showcasing the versatility of our local fruits.

Upon arrival, guests were greeted with a fantastic array of premium local stone fruit on display before they proceeded out to the balcony to see the Yagan Square digital tower up in lights with WA stonefruit images for all the city to see.

WHEN April

FOLLOW WA STONEFRUIT @wastonefruit @WeLoveWAStonefruit

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Yagan Square digital tower.

STONEFRUIT

Making the most of the occasion and the peak traffic, our mouth-watering imagery was on rotation for a full hour from 5pm as was seen by thousands of city workers and visitors as they travelled along Wellington and William streets and to the public transport hubs.

Our fantastic hosts, the Shoe Bar in Yagan Square put on a show with stone fruit inspired canapes and a ‘Peachy Fizz’ mocktail. Their in-house kitchen also came to the party with a menu including yellow nectarines in a salad with chicken tacos, crostini with brie and peaches, and home-made plum sauce for spring rolls or in pork sliders?

These stone fruit specialties were complemented with creations from special guest chef Sophie Budd, who delighted with roasted peaches and zabaglione, with crushed amaretti biscuits for dessert.

Northbridge sensation Chicho Gelato supplied two speciality items for everyone to try: local peach gelato and an apricot amaretto frozen yoghurt.

We extend our warmest and delicious thanks to everyone who contributed and prepared food for the occasion.

f SOME of our fabulous industry members, (L–R), Lani, Brigitte and Tara from Buy West Eat Best, Albert Zurzolo from Metcash (IGA), and guest celebrity chef, Sophie Budd, of Taste Budds Cooking Studio.

The season launch connects people of influence with growers. f MINISTER MacTiernan (second from the left), with growers (L–R), Mario Giumelli, Carlo Caccetta, Anthony Fullam, Bruno Del Simone, and Danny Di Marco.

Alongside the great food, it was a welcome opportunity for growers, retailers, and the supply chain to network, encouraging growers to make the most of the annual event, especially considering the challenges which COVID has brought in recent times.

We were pleased to welcome the Hon. Alannah MacTiernan MLC, Minister for Regional Development; Agriculture and Food; Hydrogen Industry, to the launch to talk with growers and hear how their season has started. We appreciate the Minister’s dedication to attend the event despite her busy schedule.

f THE Yagan Square Digital Tower making sure all the city knows local stonefruit is in season.

The Hon Darren West MLC, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Regional Development; Agriculture and Food; Hydrogen Industry, opened the event with an enthusiastic speech to the industry, highlighting the challenges and innovations primary producers have adapted to over the recent years.

The special guest list continued with the Hon. Steve Thomas MLC, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council; Shadow Minister for Treasury; Small Business, attending for the second year in a row.

We pride the season launch on being an event which connects people of influence with growers to increase understanding and awareness, having a diverse audience attend for the second year emphasises how important and successful this event is.

Many thanks to all the growers and industry members who were able to attend, we are grateful for the combined industry cooperation and enthusiasm that comes from the season launch and how it continues well into the season.

We hope to bring in the 2022–23 WA Stonefruit season with another bang later in the year. ● MORE INFORMATION Contact Shay Crouch on 0429 672 339 or Shay.crouch@perthnrm.com

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Tastings instore help increase consumer awareness of our local stone fruit.

Consumers who taste first buy more

BY SHAY CROUCH VALUE CHAIN FACILITATOR, STONEFRUIT

f WELL stocked fruit display of local stonefruit.

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STONEFRUIT

T

here is sometimes debate on how effective or measurable free in-stores tastings are for the product being promoted. From our experience over the last few years, we have seen huge value for the stone fruit industry.

Each year we carry out in-store demonstrations which are contracted out to Fresh Finesse, with the aim to increase sales and general consumer awareness of our local stone fruit.

Doing demonstrations every year gives us the opportunity to compare data over each season, track pricings and build relationships with store managers.

People are looking for that experience in everything they do, and in-store demonstrations are no different, it is part of the package.

Having this direct engagement with consumers gives us an opportunity to collect direct feedback and be more informed of their purchasing habits. Which allows us to look at more ways to increase the weekly spend on our produce.

Tastings give us the opportunity to compare data, track pricings and build relationships.

The in-store demonstrations allow us to interact directly with consumers, so they do not forget that local stone fruit is in season and are reminded of the enjoyable experience they have when tasting the fruit samples or engaging with a knowledgeable demonstrator.

You hear reassuring feedback including.

• ‘They’re perfect for Christmas,’ • ‘WA local stone fruits are the best,’ • ‘I’ll have to buy some,’ • ‘It’s great to be able to taste before I buy,’

f LAURA set up to provide samples to consumers as they do their shop at a local greengrocer.

• ‘I have never tried a plum before.’

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TABLE 1. YELLOW FLESH NECTARINE PRICE TRACKING 2021–22 SEASON Week

Coles ($)

Woolworths ($)

1

30/11/2021

5.90

5.90

2

07/12/2021

4.90

3

14/12/2021

4.80

4

21/12/2021

6 7

Independents ($)

IGA ($)

Average ($)

12.99

6.99

7.95

4.90

3.99

6.99

5.20

4.90

14.99

7.99

8.17

4.50

4.50

2.99

5.99

5.00

04/01/2022

4.00

4.50

14.99

14.99

9.62

11/01/2022

4.00

5.50

3.99

6.99

5.12

8

18/01/2022

4.50

4.00

6.99

6.95

5.61

9

25/01/2022

4.00

5.50

7.99

11.99

7.37

10

01/02/2022

3.90

3.90

7.99

12.99

7.20

11

09/02/2022

3.90

4.90

8.99

6.50

6.07

Coles ($)

Woolworths ($)

Independents ($)

IGA ($)

Average ($)

TABLE 2. YELLOW FLESH PEACH PRICE TRACKING 2021–22 SEASON Week

1

30/11/2021

6.90

6.90

14.99

6.99

8.95

2

07/12/2021

5.90

6.90

8.99

4.99

6.70

3

14/12/2021

4.90

5.90

14.99

14.99

10.20

4

21/12/2021

4.90

5.90

2.99

8.99

5.70

6

04/01/2022

4.90

4.50

14.99

14.99

9.85

7

11/01/2022

5.99

4.50

7.99

3.99

5.62

8

18/01/2022

4.50

5.90

6.95

9.99

6.84

9

25/01/2022

5.90

4.50

7.99

11.99

7.60

10

01/02/2022

5.90

5.90

6.99

12.99

7.95

11

09/02/2022

4.00

5.90

4.49

7.99

5.60

Note: Price tracking across Independents and IGA’s can vary significantly as different suburbs are targeted each week.

You also get real, honest criticism which is important for both growers and retailers to hear and work together to improve the customer experience.

People can be surprised by how sweet the fruit is, or how firm they can be, some people prefer soft and juicy fruit whilst other prefer a ‘crunch’!

This year we have been carried out demos in multiple IGA supermarkets, Woolworths, Spudsheds and other independents. Store managers have positive feedback, commenting on how the stand has increased sales for the day, how they would like to see more of these activations, believing it has increased consumer knowledge and improved their customer’s shopping experience.

We focus on high traffic stores and busy times of day.

The Fresh Finesse team also collect feedback from store managers to gauge how sales have gone throughout the demo period, record the prices, and provide their own feedback on the fruit.

We focus on high traffic stores and busy times of day to maximise exposure and believe our strategy has been working, in that the more people we engage with the more likely they are to buy our local produce.

With the ability to track the prices over the seasons, we are unfortunately seeing retail prices down on last year despite inflation on all input costs including labour. This makes it another challenging year for growers as they look to supply a high quality, fresh, seasonal fruit to consumers.

Table 1 and 2 show how prices have tracked since early December through to early February for yellow flesh nectarines and peaches. ● MORE INFORMATION Contact Shay Crouch on 0429 672 339 or email shay.crouch@perthnrm.com

FOLLOW WA STONEFRUIT @wastonefruit @WeLoveWAStonefruit

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YOUR BUSINESS

your

business Your business WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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YOUR BUSINESS

There is a network of local support you can access. f EXPERIENCED advice for your local business.

Who is your support team?

BY SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

R

unning a business can be lonely at times, with small business owners wearing many hats.

However, you don’t have to go it alone. There is a network of local support you can access, wherever you are in Western Australia.

It would be easy to assume that WA is dominated by big business and mining companies, but the fact is that the vast majority (97 per cent) of all businesses in our state are small businesses — those employing fewer than 20 people.

help to have free advice and resources you can easily access. When it comes down to it, running a small business isn’t a small job and building a support team around you can help you start well, survive and thrive.

Of the 220,000 small businesses in WA, 16,000 are in the Agricultural, Forestry and Fishing category, making this the sixth largest small business sector in the state.

The Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC) is a State Government agency that supports small businesses to succeed.

As a grower, you may not always think of yourself as a small business owner.

However, it’s likely that you share challenges with small business owners in many different sectors, even more so in these COVID times.

Small business owners are generally time poor, manage competing priorities, need to carefully manage expenditure and face other challenges in the running of a successful business. So, it can really

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As well as making workshops and services available in the Perth metropolitan area, the SBDC offers free advisory services through a local network of business advisers across the state.

Throughout WA, this network assists small businesses with individualised guidance, information and learning opportunities — all delivered by local, experienced business advisers.

YOUR BUSINESS

No matter where you are in WA, the SBDC is here to support your small business through the Business Local network, which offers free practical business advice from people who know your local business environment.

Kimberley In our state’s north west, Kimberley Small Business Support helps businesses seeking practical advice, wanting to increase their knowledge of business matters, or looking for efficiencies in their businesses.

Business based in Broome, Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Kununurra, Halls Creek, Wyndham and other locations across the Kimberley can access advice and assistance. Topics of interest include business planning and strategy, finances, marketing, people management and operations.

Great Southern The Albany Business Centre services small businesses throughout the Great Southern including those based in Albany, Denmark, Katanning, Kojonup and surrounds with tailored advice and regular workshops covering everything from social media to occupational health and safety.

The Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing industry sector is the biggest economic contributor to the Great Southern region, as well as its largest employer, so you will find local advisers experienced in your industry.

Peel and South West

State-wide

In Peel and the South West, IPS Business Advisory offers free advice on business planning, growing a business through use of the web, taxation and financial matters, staffing and HR issues, IT and marketing to local business owners. Their range of workshops on relevant topics is offered in towns including Mandurah, Pinjarra, Busselton, Bunbury, Margaret River and Collie.

From their Perth head office, the SBDC supports small businesses throughout WA. People planning to start or already operating their own enterprise can call 133 140 for personalised advice from an experienced small business adviser; find free business resources on the smallbusiness.wa.gov.au website; and access specialised assistance on commercial tenancy, dispute resolution and many other business matters.

Goldfields

Business local support

The Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber of Commerce and Industry delivers tailored advice and workshops through local advisers who really understand how things work in your area. Guidance is available on a range of matters including starting a business, planning for success, marketing your products and services, social media and digital marketing, employing staff, managing your finances and getting paid on time.

Running a small business isn’t a small job. As an owner, you wear multiple hats whether as managers, customer service staff, accountants, marketers and so on.

No matter where you are in WA, the SBDC is here to support your small business.

Wheatbelt, Mid-West, Pilbara and Gascoyne Whether you’re just starting out with a great small business idea or looking to grow or solve a specific business challenge, the business advisers at RSM can help you on your journey to business success.

Esperance

The Esperance Chamber of Commerce and Industry supports the business community of Esperance and beyond with individualised advice and skills development workshops.

Experienced local business advisers based in Esperance and Ravensthorpe assist businesses at all stages of development to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities.

The network of Business Local advisers supported by the SBDC is the trusted choice for advice and guidance for small business owners in regional WA. Last financial year, they delivered over 17,000 hours of advice to regional businesses through advisory sessions and workshops, including to nearly 4000 first time users.

MORE INFORMATION Build a support team for your business where you are, by visiting smallbusiness. wa.gov.au/regional

Small Business Development Corporation

f THE SBDC offers free advisory services through a local network of business advisers across the state.

Based in Northam, Geraldton and Karratha and serving businesses throughout the Wheatbelt, Mid-West, Gascoyne and Pilbara, RSM’s local teams help business owners seeking know-how and strategic advice about running their businesses.

Areas of assistance include business start up, planning, marketing, licencing, tax, succession planning and more.

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What’s your COVID-19 plan?

Ensuring the health of yourself, your staff, and your business.

 ARE there enough resources available to keep staff healthy and the business running?

BY MICHAEL BARTHOLOMEW REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

M

anaging risk is an essential component of sound business management.

Whether you run a coffee shop, a sporting club, or a farm, risk remains a dynamic and an ever-present factor of daily operation.

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Resilient business managers have strong risk management mindset and have various contingency plans in place.

If you are such a manager, you might be currently asking yourself, “what happens to my business when my staff and I catch COVID-19?”

Growing up on a farm, it is common to have bushfire readiness plans — a memorable list of instructions that can be implemented at a moment’s notice.

Much like a bushfire plan, business risk management plans aim to protect you and your business from the ‘fire’ of economic uncertainty (and can include the threat of actual fire too).

These plans also consist of a list of directives, that can be quickly implemented to alleviate the adverse effects of a changing (and often hostile) operating environment.

Unfortunately, today’s constantly changing operating environment has delivered us COVID-19.

Outside of health concerns, the labour implications of the normalisation of COVID-19 brings enormous change to labour policy and the impact it may have on a business. We have had time to observe the impacts that such an event has had on the Eastern States, and now Western Australia is facing the prospect of supply chain impacts.

What can you do to make sure you are prepared for this change? vegetablesWA has developed a checklist that covers some basic questions that help your business to be prepared for a COVID-19 outbreak. Use the simple checklist, to help gain a better understanding of how prepared you are and what you might need to do to ensure the health of yourself, your staff, and your business.

YOUR BUSINESS

 ISOLATE symptomatic staff in alternate buildings.

The significance of promoting discussion around incorporating COVID-19 issues into the broader business risk management conversation should not be overlooked.

Think about what you can do, write down on paper the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) of protecting your business against COVID-19: what can your business do better than others and what needs improving?

Each farm is different and will be impacted in various ways, being as best prepared as you can with a plan of attack before anything happens is the most effective way of mitigating damages and tackling the challenge head-on.

Remember, people and properties with bushfire preparedness plans have a much greater chance of surviving than those without and the same is probably true for COVID-19.

MORE INFORMATION For the COVID-19 Checklist, please visit https://vegetableswa.com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2022/02/covid-business-redinesschecklist.pdf

For the most up-to-date COVID-19 information, please visit: • health.gov.au • health.wa.gov.au • w a.gov.au/government/covid-19coronavirus Additional information about business management requirements can be found on the Chamber of Commerce and Industry website, cciwa.com.

 MICHAEL Bartholomew (left) and David Ellement (right) holding the new combined COVID-19 and biosecurity signage now available for grower members.

Please contact vegetablesWA if you are interested in implementing these on your farm.

If you are interested in the COVID-19 and biosecurity signage as pictured, please reach out to: Michael Bartholomew, Regional Development Officer VegNET 3.0 at michael.bartholomew@vegetableswa.com.au.

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The importance of sexual harassment policies

s s e n i s u b r u o in y A

BY STEPHEN FARRELL INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS CONSULTANT, VEGETABLESWA

recent decision of the Fair Work Commission highlights the higher standards that employers and employees need to meet on issues of workplace equality and harassment.

f THE business provided its employees with apparently unrestricted access to alcohol for more than two hours.

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Ensure you have robust policies in place.

YOUR BUSINESS

case s tudy

In 2021, a manager, who had been working for a business for 35 years and was in a senior position, attended a professional development day and then a sundowner event with colleagues at which alcohol was served.

After the sundowner event, the manager remained at the bar with a few other employees and continued drinking. The manager was recorded on the bar’s CCTV footage reaching towards the middle part of a female’s (who also worked for the business) buttocks with his hand and moved his hand upwards for a few seconds. The footage also showed that the female employee had been physically touching the manager on his shoulder and back.

The business investigated the incident and found that the manager had sexually harassed the female employee and dismissed him. The manager then filed an unfair dismissal application with the Fair Work Commission.

In her decision, the Deputy President found that there had been a valid reason for the manager’s dismissal despite the incident occurring out of the workplace, in a social setting, with none of the participants wearing a uniform or any clothing identifying the business.

Supporting her finding, the Deputy President felt that it was relevant that but for the sundowner, which had been organised by the business for its employees who had attended the professional development day, the manager and female employee would likely not have been socialising together and therefore there was a connection between the manager’s conduct at the bar and his employment with the business.

Furthermore, the Deputy President found that while the female employee may have also committed misconduct, this did not excuse the manager’s behaviour or provide consent to the manager to touch her in an intimate location.

In her decision, the Deputy President said: “The bar as to what constitutes consent for physical and sexual interactions has been significantly raised in the broader community. An even higher bar has been set for interactions occurring in work-related environments. The media coverage and social discourse in relation to these issues has been extensive, placing those in Australian workplaces on notice that their behaviour will attract greater scrutiny and face higher standards than in the past.”

The Deputy President also criticised the business for its part in the incident, stating: Mr Keron’s conduct in relation to Witness A appears to have been a direct consequence of his alcohol consumption on the evening of

10 March 2021. In its wisdom, the business decided that the only appropriate venue to provide a networking opportunity for its white-collar professional employees was a sports themed pub, notwithstanding the existence of function rooms at Optus Stadium. A sports themed pub would appear to be an odd choice for an organisation purporting to be seeking to create a work environment which welcomes women and employees of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds.

At that pub, the business provided its employees with apparently unrestricted access to alcohol for more than two hours. Senior management did not remain at the function to ensure that its employees safely departed the venue nor was provision made to ensure intoxicated employees could get home safely.

The business purport to be committed to principles such as: “Supporting our people: • We create a safe, diverse, and inclusive place to work where we welcome diversity of thought and experience, prioritise our people and our customers' safety and wellbeing and do not tolerate discrimination, bullying or harassment, including sexual harassment.

• We work together as a team, support each other and are professional in our interactions.”

If the business was seriously committed to these principles, the business should give consideration to whether the location, they chose for networking events is one which all employees feel comfortable attending. They should also give consideration to whether the service of alcohol is necessary or even an appropriate element of work-related events given the poor judgement often associated with the consumption of alcohol. If alcohol is a necessary element of the event the business should ensure that its employees are safe during the course of the event, that there is a clear conclusion to the event and that the safe departure of employees is facilitated.”

Conclusion It is critical for growers and industry organisations to ensure they have robust policies in place making it clear to its workers that there is no place in their business for sexual harassment.

In addition, growers holding social events for their staff should strongly consider whether alcohol should be provided and if so, put in place strategies to protect their staff from harassment.

MORE INFORMATION If growers have specific questions relating to their business on the issues raised in this article, they can contact Stephen Farrell on 0455 833 352 or at stephen. farrell@vegetableswa.com.au.

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The importance

of a financial and business review

A

BY TRUYEN VO REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

s a Regional Development Officer, I am continually curious as to what the differentiating factor is between the most and least successful businesses. So, I decided to pick the brains of my colleague, Bryn Edwards.

f MAKING input purchases before the season, allows a grower to save their money, which is reflected in their profitability.

vegetablesWA has recently wrapped up the third year of the Vegetable Industry Benchmark Project and started the Building Horticulture Business Capacity Program1 with Bryn as project manager.

Bryn commented that both projects highlighted the breadth and the impact of the many challenges the industry faces — but a key takeaway was that successful businesses can tackle these challenges more effectively when they have solid financial management and sound knowledge of their business operations, as well as actively seek out opportunities to learn and challenge themselves through projects like the Benchmark Project and the Building Horticulture Business Capacity Program2.

of the enterprise. From this, the business owner is given a confidential, detailed, independent perspective on the current state of the business and where improvements can be made to further profitability.

The review also provides an anonymous comparison to the wider industry through industry benchmarks.

As a Regional Development Officer (RDO) at vegetablesWA, while I obviously do not see the individual results, the Benchmark Project provided a lot of key insights and details. In particular, the industry averages of grower performance in Western Australia and how the top and bottom 25 per cent differ from this, and more importantly the key factors that keep a business at the top.

Businesses with solid financial management can tackle challenges more effectively.

In both projects, vegetable business owners are connected with farm management experts who conduct a full business and financial analysis

Yet despite the numbers, Bryn’s perspective was simple — the best businesses are well organised.

Source: www.plexusconsulting.co.nz/blog/post/54694/Stuck-in-2nd-Gear 1 https://issuu.com/vegetableswa/docs/wagrower_winter_20_lr__1_ 2 https://ausveg.com.au/articles/report-sheds-light-on-profitability-of-wa-vegetable-growers-2/

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“You can drive past two farms and they may look very much the same from the roadside, but it’s what goes on in the inside, their business and financial management, that makes the big differences.”

Bryn and I then discussed the common traits of the top farm managers.

It was clear that successful managers thoroughly think things through and continually check back in on their plans, which increases the chance of higher profitability.

These managers also review their budgets and expenses and are clear about the true cost of production and expected yield throughout the season. They also adjust plans accordingly as issues arise and are strategic decision makers who focus on return on investment when making expenditure decisions.

Successful managers thoroughly think things through.

Characteristics to increase profitability The following list outlines additional characteristics that are shown to increase the profitability of horticulture operations: 1 Knowing exactly which tasks they are going to perform at any moment.

A grower should know when they plan to make their farm ready for the new season (cleaning the finished crop, planning crop types to grow for the coming season, ordering seeds/seedlings, working the soil, rewarding themselves a break/holidays and other necessary activities). Basically, all tasks are chronologically arranged to a grower, making them more adjustable to any unexpected events.

2 Based on the list of planned tasks, a grower can organise their time in addition to other important activities.

Since farming is often a job with varying duties, having the list of all planned tasks keeps a grower focused on their crop production.

A grower who plans all activities knows when and how they will use machinery, farm materials, and labour-power. That way, a grower can prepare themselves in advance, allowing them to make educated decisions on purchasing farm materials, sourcing additional workers, or scaling the volume of crop grown according to the available workforce.

3 According to the planned activities, a grower should also plan their finances.

By organising farm activities, a grower can successfully plan how much farm materials they need to buy and from this, have a good handle on what the true cost of production is. In fact, they can create a detailed budget, which can enable them to purchase the exact number of seedlings, fertilisers, pesticides, and other inputs.

f A successful grower is able to effectively manage the major profit drivers, price, productivity, and input/output costs.

Making input purchases before the season, allows a grower to save their money, which is reflected in their profitability.

4 They are focused on getting the big decisions right.

A successful grower is disciplined in financial and operational management practices, with a focus on budget/cost control and return on investment. They understand which big decisions need to be made, what information they need to support that decision and when it needs to be made.

They are also able to effectively manage the major profit drivers, price, productivity, and input/ output costs.

Through a series of seasons, a grower will gain a better perspective of how reliable their business is in terms of generating profit. Once the cost structure and profit resilience are well understood, decisions on appropriate debt levels and price targets can be made. Ultimately, lowering the negative impacts on the business.

5 They are open-minded and communicative.

Being a good planner, prepared and analytical decision maker are not natural human characteristics.

These are skills acquired through learning, reviewing, and improving over time.

A successful grower is often openminded and able to communicate effectively. They are open to new ideas and capable of analysing insights to improve business performance. Industry information and business advice will come from reliable third parties, which can include accountants, local agronomists, regional development officers, other farmminded people, and staff. These are people you should network with, as these resources can help you achieve business goals and promote innovative ideas.

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Over nine years working at vegetablesWA, I know that growers are hard workers who spend most of their time out in the field. They are often faced with a lack of time, which leaves them striving to manage all farm activities.

I often hear growers say that time is a finite resource, and there is a better use for it than pre-planning and analysing.

To which I argue that being ‘well organised’ is an essential component to a successful business.

For a small amount of planning now, you can save a lot of time down the track.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Truyen Vo on 0457 457 559 or at truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au

f BEING ‘well organised’ is an essential component to a successful business.

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• • • • • •

Boosts the immune system of the plant (the plants are more resilient to weather conditions and pests) Brings micro nutrients through the leaves (instead of the root) and enhances the growth Positive effect on plants photosynthesis process Higher yield and higher fruit quality Calcium 39.6% Effective neutralizing value 99.79 Foliar applied at an average of 2kg/$20 per hectare

Contact us to discuss your needs

Neil Miles

neil@plantedpassion.com.au 0429 599 977 plantedpassionagriculture.com.au

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New pay slip obligations

for WA industrial relations employers  IT will be compulsory for employers to provide a pay slip to their employees within one working day of paying their salary/wages.

O

BY STEPHEN FARRELL INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS CONSULTANT, VEGETABLESWA

n 22 December 2021, the WA parliament passed the Industrial Relations Legislation Amendment Bill 2021, fulfilling an election promise to implement the recommendations arising from the review of the WA industrial relations system conducted by Mark Ritter and Stephen Price.

The Bill makes amendments to the Industrial Relations Act 1979, the Long Service Leave Act 1958, and the Minimum Conditions of Employment Act 1993.

In addition, it also amends the Public and Bank Holidays Act 1972 by making Easter Sunday a public holiday in WA.

From the commencement date of the new laws (yet to be announced but likely in early 2022), it will be compulsory for employers to provide a pay slip to their employees within one (1) working day of paying their salary/wages. This does not mean, however, that the employee must physically receive their pay slip within one day of payment, as long as the pay slip was generated within that time frame. For example, a grower who downloaded, printed, and then posted the pay slip to their employee within one day of paying the employee would still be meeting their obligations, even though the employee may not receive the payslip until later.

The Bill affects Easter Sunday now a those growers who public holiday in WA. are not companies or constitutional corporations and therefore are not covered by the federal industrial relations system.

One of the significant amendments is the enhanced requirements on employers to provide pay slips to their employees.

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In order to be compliant, the pay slip must include the following information:

Check your pay slips are compliant before the new laws come into effect.

• The employer’s name and Australian Business Number (if any); • The employee’s name; • The period to which the pay slip relates; • The date on which the payment referred to in the pay slip was made; • The gross and net amounts of the payment, and any amount withheld as tax; • Any incentive-based payment, or payment of a bonus, loading, penalty rates or another monetary allowance or separately identifiable entitlement; • If an amount is deducted from the gross amount of the payment: — The name of the person in relation to whom or which the deduction was made; or if the deduction was paid into a fund or account; — The name, or the name and number, of the fund or account; and — The purpose of the deduction; • If the employee is paid at an hourly rate of pay: — The rate of pay for the employee’s ordinary hours; — The number of hours worked during the period to which the pay slip relates; and — The amount of the payment made at that rate; • If the employee is paid a weekly or an annual rate of pay — the rate as at the latest date to which the payment relates; • If the employer is required to make superannuation contributions for the benefit of the employee: — The amount of each contribution that the employer made during the period to which the pay slip relates and the name, or the name and number, of any fund to which the contribution was made; or — The amounts of the contributions that the employer is liable to make in relation to the period to which the pay slip relates, and the name, or the name and number, of any fund to which the contributions will be made.

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Conclusion These new requirements have been in the public domain as being likely to come into force for at least 2 years, so it is likely that accountants and payroll systems have already been updated.

These requirements are the same as the obligations on national system employers covered by the Fair Work Act 2009 but small growers who do not use sophisticated accounting or payroll systems should check that their pay slips are compliant before the new laws come into effect.

MORE INFORMATION If growers have specific questions relating to their business on the issues raised in this article, they can contact Stephen Farrell on 0455 833 352 or at stephen.farrell@ vegetableswa.com.au.

 IF the employer is required to make superannuation contributions, the amount of each contribution that the employer made during the period to which the pay slip relates and the name, or the name and number, of any fund to which the contribution was made needs to included on the payslip.

YOUR HEALTH

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Decision making

e r u s s e r under p  DECISIONS made under challenging circumstances can certainly cause us and those around us a bit of stress … this is normal!

No matter who we are or what we do, none of us know which way the dice will roll.

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None of us want to make the wrong decision, but sometimes this can't be avoided.

BY REGIONAL MEN’S HEALTH

W

e make decisions every single day, sometimes without even knowing it, these are often the easy and simple decisions that are part of our routine of daily life. Decisions that are of a more complex nature, involve more risk, or a decision that must be made under challenging circumstances can certainly cause us and those around us a bit of stress … this is normal!

Being in a position to make a decision is a good thing. For many people making decisions may not be an issue; I’m sure we have all met someone who seems confident, sure of themselves and likes to be in control and take charge of situations and the decisions that go with it. While others may be a little more indecisive, seek advice or approval first, or maybe just need a little more time to think things through. Regardless of which end of the scale we are at, it is a positive to be able to make decisions, as this means at least two things; 1 We are in a position to have a say, make a choice and be in control; and 2 We are not procrastinating.

Why do some of us struggle with decision making and what factors can impact this?

There are many things at play that can influence and impact on our decision making and listed below are a few examples.

Uncertainty No matter who we are or what we do, none of us know which way the dice will roll. None of us want to make the wrong decision, but sometimes this cannot be avoided (weather, fires, floods, droughts, bureaucracy).

Complexity This can depend on the nature of our business or situation, i.e. farming involves many different interrelated factors that quite often need to be considered (financial, weather, equipment, labour, cost/price).

Consequences Something we have all tasted at one stage or another, both good and bad. We still need to consider the consequences — Risk vs Reward.

Alternatives

 BEING in a position to make a decision is a good thing.

Have we considered them? Where do we get our information from to inform us of all available options?

Interpersonal issues Who else is affected by our decisions, how will others react? What frame of mind are we in when making decisions? What else do we have going on in our lives, what are our priorities?

So, what can we do to help this process?

•

Try and create a positive space;

•

emember the 6 Ps — Prior Planning Prevents R Piss Poor Performance;

• Be realistic and look at all the factors impacting on our circumstance; •

he grass is not always greener. Don’t be T influenced by what others are doing or will think;

•

tick to a plan/process that you are S comfortable with.

It’s important to remember that when we make a decision it’s often based on the best information we have at the current time. Letting go of making a wrong decision is vital. This can be hard for some people however over-thinking the could of/should of/ would of does not get us anywhere.

Stay committed to your decisions but stay flexible with your approach.

MORE INFORMATION The Regional Men’s Health Initiative delivered by Wheatbelt Men’s Health (Inc): Phone: (08) 9690 2277 Email: menshealth@4blokes.com.au www.regionalmenshealth.com.au

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Small business mental health service extended VID-19

f NEWACCESS is available via phone, video call from Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm AEST.

for those impacted by CO and natural disasters

BY BEYOND BLUE

B

eyond Blue has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement to continue its NewAccess for Small Business Owners service to December 2022.

The $4.1 million in additional funding for the service means Beyond Blue can continue supporting the mental health and wellbeing of small business owners impacted by the pandemic and natural disasters beyond 1 April to 31 December, 2022.

Beyond Blue Chair The Hon Julia Gillard AC thanked the Australian Government for continuing to support a highly accessible service that has already helped many small business owners better manage the stresses caused by the uncertainty of recent times.

“The Federal Government’s announcement comes at a time when the COVID-19 omicron variant is placing further pressure on small businesses, which are experiencing workforce shortages, supply chain issues and impacts on patronage,” Ms Gillard said.

“Beyond Blue welcomes the government’s funding extension for our NewAccess for Small Business Owners service so we can continue to support the mental health of people who contribute enormously to the wealth of our nation and currently face many stresses.

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“We are honoured to be given the responsibility to provide this innovative, free service that offers personalised mental health coaching by people who themselves have a small business background.”

between someone quickly getting back on their feet or sliding further into a dark place. NewAccess for Small Business Owners offers a practical approach to problem-solving and participants overwhelmingly sing its praises.”

The funding extension will support an additional 2,565 small business owners and the hiring of an extra six mental health coaches via delivery partner Richmond Fellowship Queensland.

Since launch in March 2021, the program has supported more than 1,200 small business owners and delivered more than 4,200 coaching sessions.

NewAccess for Small Business Owners offers a course of one-on-one sessions with coaches who have been trained in self-guided treatment called low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy.

Ninety-one per cent of people surveyed after using the service said they would recommend the program to other small business owners, 86 per cent felt more productive and able to address future business challenges and 89 per cent felt equipped to address similar difficulties in the future if they arise. Seven out of 10 users recovered against clinically validated measures.

The program has supported more than 1,200 small business owners since its launch.

All coaches have a background in small business and are trained to deliver this evidence-based support with clinical supervision.

The service minimises barriers to accessing mental health support. It is free, requires no doctor’s referral, and is available out of usual business hours by telehealth (telephone or online).

“By using coaches who have lived and breathed small business, small business owners can be reassured they’re talking to someone who has been in their shoes,” Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman said.

“Timely access to affordable mental health support can be the difference

Beyond Blue thanks the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Bruce Billson, The Council of Small Business Australia, and state and territory small business Commissioners for their ongoing support of the service.

MORE INFORMATION To find out more about NewAccess for Small Business Owners, phone 1300 945 301 or visit beyondblue.org.au/get-support/ newaccess/newaccess-for-small-businessowners

YOUR HEALTH

How to stick to your goals

e d fa ’t n o w n io t a iv t o m so your

BY RURAL WEST

W

ith another year in the rear-view mirror, it’s a great time to set new goals for the year and beyond. Fresh year, fresh start.

But how can we ensure we will stick to our goals and our motivation won’t fade out?

Start small Small, incremental changes are often a more successful way to achieve goals and are the basis of the ‘Nudge Theory’.

This theory encourages behaviour change through positive reinforcement and indirect suggestions as people are more likely to do what is good for them, if the better choice is easier. Google

workplaces wanted to improve employee well-being by encouraging healthier choices of meals — yes less Big Macs, more rabbit food.

They implemented nudges to encourage healthier eating by putting the healthier choices in the first seen and easiest to access places. It is just a nudge, the alternative less healthy options are still available (it is America), but with this nudge on average employees chose healthier options more often.

If you want to start getting up earlier, a gentle nudge could be setting an alarm which is out of reach of your bed.

If you have to get out of bed to turn it off, you can minimise the temptation of hitting snooze.

Start at the right time Evidence has shown aligning stages in our resolutions to events of significance to us (birthdays, annual celebrations) makes it more likely we will act —

creating a gentle nudge to help achieve goals, such as getting fit to run an upcoming race. Equally, scheduling new habits for after an event (e.g family holiday) that could disrupt your motivation to reach your goals.

If there are aspects of work (or play) that are difficult, consider if nudges might work to make the tasks easier to accomplish.

Clear vision While this may seem obvious, apparently it can (and often does) get lost along the way! Aligning your values with your goals. What do you value most? Is it financial freedom or more time with the family? Asking yourself these questions and defining what matters most to you, can help clarify what your biggest goal is and the value in achieving it.

Alignment of values and strategic goals engages the client with a future they personally value. This enhances rapid adoption of change and enables clients to be independent and forward-thinking.

Review and refine Inevitably things change so it is important to look back, review and refine your goals along the way against your objectives and values. Making better use of our nudges can help counter our natural biases that work against us.

MORE INFORMATION Supported by the State and Federal governments, Rural West works with a wide range of primary producers and regional small business owners to improve their position and profitability.

f SMALL, incremental changes are often a more successful way to achieve goals.

Contact Rural West on 1800 612 004 or via email enquiries@ruralwest.com.au.

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My health and wellbeing Who’s responsible?

BY REGIONAL MEN’S HEALTH INITIATIVE

W

Remember the three Cs of life: Choices, Chances, Changes.

e’re often told, if unwell, get to the doctor and they will deal with our health and wellbeing issue.

The doctor will often give a diagnosis, treatment options and other assistance through referrals and follow up. But it is us as individuals that must make decisions and take action, which ultimately drives the outcome.

Based on some American research it is important to remember that one of the biggest determinants on our health (70%) are the decisions we make regarding wellbeing and lifestyle choices. It goes on to say that the remaining factors can vary between: • Genetics: It’s important to know family history and our vulnerability to certain illness/disease.

• Environment: What we are exposed to (trauma, poverty, stressors). Living and working in regional WA can be tough dealing with such things as isolation, extreme climates and working with machinery.

• The health system: Tyranny of distance and a lack of male friendly services exacerbates this.

Undoubtedly the major impact is lifestyle choices! Reinforcing our takeaway message… my health and wellbeing is my responsibility…

We say our overall health and wellbeing is made up of physical, mental and social/spiritual aspects and to maintain all three, we as individuals need to be the driver. Whether dealing with situational distress, physical health problems, a diagnosed mental illness or an issue impacting our social/spiritual wellbeing

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f MAKE an appointment with your GP to discuss your individual risk factors.

(challenges around identity, meaning and purpose or our sense of belonging), the doctor will provide the framework to follow but decisions and changes ultimately need to be made by us.

Making informed decisions are a part of life, whether it’s to do with family, work and social activities. Why then should our health and wellbeing be any different? Blokes in general are action orientated but making decisions and acting on things that can negatively impact our wellbeing can be put off.

The warrior attitude is an admirable attribute, especially when dealing with sporting, business or seasonal adversity.

However, this same attitude can lead to negligence and not putting ourselves first. We have all seen the numerous health campaigns: “A simple test could save your life”, “Don’t delay” or “Know your score”, but we also constantly hear similar comments from blokes when discussing health and wellbeing issues: • It won’t happen to me/she’ll be right.

• We know the issues, but we don’t want to show ourselves as the only one with a problem.

• I will just see how it goes (the back pain I’ve had for six months).

The buck stops with us blokes to be the decision maker on health and wellbeing issues — it’s not the doctor’s, wife’s or employer’s responsibility, but ours!

Remember the three Cs of life: Choices, Chances, Changes. You must make a choice to take a chance, or your life will never change.

Diet, exercise and sleep are three areas you can start making some simple changes to help improve your health and wellbeing outcomes and remember a routine service visit could reduce the risk of some expensive repairs down the track.

Make an appointment with your GP to discuss your individual risk factors; don’t wait till it becomes a chronic health problem.

MORE INFORMATION The Regional Men’s Health Initiative delivered by Wheatbelt Men’s Health (Inc): Phone: (08) 9690 2277 Email: menshealth@4blokes.com.au https://regionalmenshealth.com.au/

YOUR MARKET

your

market Your market WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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A digital presence

an opportunity to build relationships with consumers

A digital ‘shopfront’ where your customers are able to reach you.

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f OFTEN the upkeep and maintenance of a website can become a deterrent to starting one.

I

BY MIN TEAH CURTIN UNIVERSITY

n the digitally connected world in which we live, it has become a norm to search or verify information using various online platforms easily available to consumers. With this ubiquitous connectivity, what does it mean to have a digital presence? Is it valuable for growers and food producers to have a digital presence? What value does it bring to your business?

For businesses and brands of any size, to have a digital presence means that you can have a digital channel or ‘shopfront’ where your current and potential customers are able to reach you. While a website or social media may or may not be the first encounter with your brand, it could help to capture their attention and reinforce familiarity with your brand. This is important to establish a degree of credibility and transparency.

A digital presence effectively serves as a point of connection and communication with your customers.

However, in order to build a digital presence, the complexities of navigating digital options such as websites, social media accounts and other trending technologies can seem like a daunting task. The question is, where to start? As customers increasingly rely on search engines to explore and verify information, having an easily accessible and functional website would be a good place to start.

A website can also serve as an impressionable point of contact, where your customers can effortlessly access and browse information about your brand or business.

In addition, the World Wide Web is an active marketplace filled with enticing advertisements selling a variety of products, services and brands at competitive prices and attractive value offerings. This inevitably exposes the consumer to a plethora of brand choices and voices aimed at capturing consumer attention by appealing to every conceivable need. However, with the vast number of choices also come with added information confusion and choice overload. Therefore, it becomes difficult to break through the clutter and draw distinctions between a legitimate business versus a mimic business. For a customer seeing a brand name for the first time, the question that

comes to mind is whether the brand or business is legitimate. Having a digital presence creates an opportunity for the brand to build trust and familiarity among consumers.

Often the upkeep and maintenance of a website can become a deterrent to starting one. Nonetheless, simple websites that are well designed, with a clear brand story or narrative, and accessible contact information would suffice to at least provide some form of assurance to the customer. With customers becoming increasingly savvy, they are keen to learn more about a brand, such as its provenance information, production methods and where to buy.

f CUSTOMERS are keen to learn more about a brand, such as its provenance information, production methods and where to buy.

A website can also easily showcase the information valuable to a customer, as well as direct them to points of purchase. While having a website might not be the magic unicorn that solves all marketing problems, it has become a basic expectation today.

For a brand to be perceived as credible, brands are expected to have some form of digital presence.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Min Teah at min.teah@curtin.edu.au

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Digital platforms

f TWO of the most popular consumer-facing social media platforms are Facebook and Instagram.

to make your business more prominent

A

BY BENJAMIN HAMILTON ADMINISTRATION, MARKETING & SALES, VEGETABLESWA

key takeaway from last year’s Food of the Future and the West Australian Horticulture Update conferences was that consumers and external businesses do their research online before committing to a business relationship or buying a product.

So, how does this affect you as a grower? Well, it basically means that businesses with a professional digital presence will have an advantage when it comes to visibility, growth, and business development. Research shows that people will forgo a product or service with no online presence in light of a product that has a brand and its own identity.

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Luckily, there are a few easy-to-learn digital platforms to make your business more prominent in the digital space.

However, this can be a double-edged sword. If you do not put in the effort to maintain your digital presence, it will be seen as 'lazy', which may also make people lose interest in your business.

The information and story need to be consistent as with anything in marketing — repetition is key! Here are a few platforms that can help you get started:

Website

chance that you will have competitors, and this is a way to stand out and show your professionalism, provided it is a clean and clear website. Additionally, it will showcase your brand to prospective customers and allow them to establish clearly who you are and what you represent as a business.

Your website becomes a hub for information, which allows you to generate leads as information about your produce, products, or services available for interested parties, which will prompt them to contact you if the delivery is right!

These days there are lots of options to choose from to build a website.

A website is a collection of web pages like: about us, contact information, the produce you sell, your story/history or just about any information you would like to share, within reason. This collection of publicly accessible, interlinked web pages is shared on a single domain name. Think of it as a digital storefront for your business, which is shared on the internet for anyone to access with the click of a button.

There are many reasons why a website is essential for businesses. For starters, you increase your credibility. It is a high

With a website, you can keep consumers updated 24/7, which assists with customer service and allows you to focus on the more critical parts of your business.

These days there are lots of options to choose from to build a website, from a top shelf bespoke design, to budget friendly ready-to-use templates that need a few simple steps to get online.

YOUR MARKET

Social media Social media provides you with a range of platforms to build your audience and grow your brand (among other goals).

There is a focus on communication, community-based input, interaction, and content-sharing. In a business sense, social media allows you to promote your brand or products, connect to customers, and foster new businesses relationships. There are a few prominent social media platforms, some of which you might already be using, e.g., Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. So why should you create a business social media profile? Simple! They are predominantly free platforms that allow you to market products, increase brand awareness and humanise your brand, which is crucial as we see the trends of the 21st-century consumer demand product information, increase website traffic, crisis communication, and allow for customer and audience engagement.

Two of the most popular consumerfacing social media platforms are Facebook and Instagram. Each platform has its intricacies to learn before becoming a master.

Facebook allows users to create a free personal or business page that enables the user to connect and share with people — allowing posts, videos, photos, external links, commenting and events. This platform also boasts more than 1 billion users worldwide, so there is an assumption many of you have it downloaded for personal use.

Instagram, in many ways, is similar to Facebook. However, there is a massive emphasis on imagery and photographic content. This content is a highly visual way to tell a story or sell a product. This platform has less impact on comments, event listings and link posting.

Whilst both are similar in function, the two platforms quite often have different demographics associated with them.

Instagram has a younger audience that resonates with the intricacies and 'behind the scene' elements of small business. Think the making of the product more so than the end product itself — which serves as its own style of selling method. In contrast, Facebook has an older audience and serves as a more professional storefront content style. Business to business communication is best served to LinkedIn and Twitter audiences.

E-newsletters and email marketing Email marketing is sending commercial emails to subscribers that have given you express permission to receive email communication from your business.

In short, this is a way to target your members with a specific purpose to get a call-to-action (download a document, sign up for a webinar or prompt a purchase). E-newsletters work in a similar way. However, the content is more general in that it would be the latest news, tips, or updates about your product or business.

Email marketing is a fantastic way to create personalised content, as tools allow you to specifically target users by name — provided the information is correct.

Additionally, it will enable you to collect feedback on specific news and topics

you present to your audience. If you are selling a product, this is a proven way to get improved sales and generate traffic to your website.

All of these platforms can be extremely useful to businesses when attempting to reach out to more customers, build your brand, or general connection to your consumers.

However, these platforms should be treated as an extension of your business. You should post relevant and professional content, and you should update the content often to keep users engaged.

MORE INFORMATION Please contact Ben Hamilton at ben.hamilton@vegetableswa.com.au or via phone on 0438 123 562 if you would like to discuss this article.

Social media helps build your audience and grow your brand.

f BUSINESS to business communication is best served to LinkedIn and Twitter audiences.

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YOUR PRODUCTION

NEW WHS LAWS — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Những luật lệ mới về Sức khỏe và an toàn lao động Có ý nghĩa buộc các doanh nghiệp nông nghiệp phải nghiêm túc với sức khỏe và an toàn nơi làm việc

BY TYSON FRY FARM BUSINESS CONSULTANT, PLANFARM

Những luật lệ mới về Bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động (WHS) bắt đầu hiệu lực từ 1/2022 đã được công báo rộng rãi trong đó đặc biệt bao gồm việc gây chết người trong môi trường làm việc trở thành tội hình sự.

Xét kỹ thì khả năng bị khép vào tội đó rất thấp.

Tuy nhiên, nguy cơ bị truy tố những tội nhẹ hơn là rất hiển nhiên nếu doanh nghiệp không chủ động quản lý vân đề sức khỏe và an toàn trong lao động. Vì vậy, nếu quí vị là chủ nông trang, quí vị nên nhìn vấn đề mọt ách nghiêm túc và để làm được vậy quí vị cần sự hổ trợ của một người có chuyên môn.

Là một ngành nghề, nông nghiệp luôn được xếp vào một trong nghững loại nguy hiểm nhất. Người làm việc trong lảnh vực nông nghiệp thường phải đối mặt với các rủi ro đến từ môi trường làm việc ngoài đồng, tiếp xúc với súc vật, hoác chất, máy móc, độ cao, và trong các điều kiện tù túng. Nhiều khi người lao động làm việc trong các điều kiện trên một mình.

Vấn đề hết sức quan trọng là người lao động phải được trang bị kiến thức và kỹ năng để thực hiện công việc một cách

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an toàn. Điều này đòi hỏi người chủ phải xây dựng và áp dụng các chính sách và qui trình làm việc an toàn vào bảo đảm sức khỏe. Điều này đặc biệt quan trọng trong môi trường mà luật lệ về bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động trở nên gắt gao hơn.

Luật Bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động 2022 (WHS act) được nghị viện WA thông qua 11/2020. Được đưa vào áp dụng 1/2022 bộ luật này gom vấn đề bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động vào một luật duy nhất, đưa WA tương đồng với luật lề đã được áp dụng ở các tiểu bang và vùng lảnh thổ khác.

Khung pháp lý này cung cấp nền tảng căn bản trong tương lai về vấn đề bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn cũng nhưng phúc lợi cho nhân công tai WA trong khi làm rỏ hơn các mối quan hệ lao động mới như người lao động theo hợp đồng và lao động không thường xuyên bên các các mối quan hệ lao động theo tập quán.

Ban hanh tra lao động sẽ tiếp tục hành động với tư cách một cơ quan độc lập quản lý luật WHS, trong đó trưởng ban sx báo cáo trực tiếp cho bộ trường Bộ Quan hệ Nghề nghiệp.

Luật WHS nầy có nhiều thay đổi lớn gây tác động sâu sắc đến nghành nông nghiệp, chăng hạn như:

1. Thay đổi định nghĩa người chủ: • Trong luật hiện hành người chủ người được xác định là người thuên nhân công có hợp đồng.

• Theo luật mới có 2 định nghỉa về người chủ để xem xét: – Người điều hành doanh nghiệp hay đại diện doanh nghiệp như hiệp hội, tập đoàn, tổ hợp, tự doanh (corporations, associations, partnerships, sole traders) có thuê mướn nhân công

– Nhân viên – những người quyết định hay tham gia ra quyết định có ảnh hưởng tới doanh nghiệp hay đại diện doanh nghiệp như giám đốc điều hành, giám đốc tài chánh, quản lý nông trang.

2. Định nghĩa về nhân công cũng thay đổi: • Theo luật hiện hành người nhân công là người làm việc theo hợp đồng.

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• Đảm bảo có qui trình tiếp nhận và xem xét thông tin về những tai nạn có liên quan đến công việc, các nguy cơ, rủi ro để ứng phó • Đảm bảo có qui trình để tuân thủ trách nhiệm và nghỉa vụ về Bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động • Thẩm định việc sữ dụng nguồn lực và qui trình.

4. Bảo hiểm không còn chi trả cho tiền phạt và các hình thức phạt: Bảo hiểm vẫn tiếp tục chi trả cho chi phí pháp lý nhưng sẽ không chi trả tiền phạt cho công ty, đại diện doanh nghiệp trong luật mới.

5. Tội giết người trong môi trường làm việc đã được thêm vào luật

• Theo luật mới, một người được xác định là nhân công khi: – Người đó thực hiện công việc cho một chủ thể doanh nghiệp như là một người làm thuê, một nhà thầu, nhà thầu phụ, học việc, tình nguyện viên.

• Điều quan trọng là nhận thức được rang sự mở rộng các định nghĩa về một nhân công sẽ các tác động đến các nhà chăn nuôi, đặc biệt là những người sữ dụng thầu xén lông hay chuyên viên thú y.

3. Trách nhiệm mở rộng về các yêu cầu quan tâm đối với đại diện và quản lý doanh nghiệp Các yêu cầu quan tâm đối với đại diện và quản lý doanh nghiệp được mở rộng trong luật mới. Luật cũng yêu cầu họ cẩn trọng xem xét và thực hiện các bước cần thiết để: • Cập nhật kiến thức về Vấn đề Bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn trong lao động.

• Am hiểu hoạt động của doanh nghiệp và các nguy cơ, rủi ro kèm theo • Đảm bảo nguồn lực có sẳn để loài trừ hay giảm thiểu rủi ro

• Tội giết người trong môi trường làm việc sẽ được áp dụng đối với đại diện doanh nghiệp và những người quản lý một khi việc không tuân thủ Bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động dẫn đến chết người.

• Việc truy tố phải chứng minh vượt khỏi nghi ngờ có lý do rằng họ đã biết trước cách làm của họ có khả năng dẫn đến chết người hay thương tật nghiêm trọng và họ hành động một cách bất chấp nguy cơ đó.

• Hình phạt tối đa đối với tội giết người liên quan đến môi trường làm việc là 10 triệu đô la đối với chủ thể là tổ chức và 5 triệu đô la và 20 năm tù đối với chủ thể là cá nhân.

• Một vụ được công bố rộng rãi năm 2020 là một công nhân chết trong khi xây dựng nhà xưởng tại một nông trang ở Esperance. Quản đốc của công ty xây dựng bị truy tố tội “phớt lờ” theo luận hiện hành. Người nầy bị tuyên có tội và nhận 8 năm tù và 18 tháng quản thúc. Công ty xây dựng của ông ấy bị phạt 605.000 đô la.

• Nếu chiếu thêo luật mới thì người quản lý có thể bị truy tố tội giết người và hình phạt hẳn là sẽ nặng hơn.

Tuy nhiên việc thực thi luật mới cũng phải theo tiêu chuẩn áp dụng rất cao khi liên quan đến tội giết người nên các doanh nghiệp nông nghiệp cũng không nên quá lo lắng. Một chủ thể là tổ chức hao quản lý sẽ chỉ bị kết án tội giết người liên quan đến lao động nếu người ta chứng minh được rằng họ biết trước cách họ tiến hành công việc gần như chắc chắn gây chết người hoặc gây thương tật nghiêm trọng nhưng phớt lờ rủi ro đó.

Cấp độ 3: Chủ thể là tổ chức hay nhà quản lý không tuân thủ trách nhiệm bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động và lổi này dẫn đến chết người. Mức phạt tối đa là 5 năm tù và 680.000 đô đối với cá nhân và 3,5 triệu đo đối với tổ chức Cấp độ 2: Chủ thể là tổ chức hay nhà quản lý không tuân thủ trách nhiệm bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động và lổi này khiến công nhân bị nguy cơ chết người, thương tật. Mức phạt tối đa 350.000 đô la đối với quản lý công ty, 170.000 đô la đối với quản lý cấp thấp hơn và 1,8 triệu đô la đối với công ty.

Cấp độ 1: Chủ thể là tổ chức hay nhà quản lý không tuân thủ trách nhiệm bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động. Mức phạt tối đa 120.000 đo la đối với quản lý công ty, 55.000 đô la đối với quản lý cấp thấp hơn và 570.000 đô la đối với công ty.

Vậy các doanh nghiệp cần làm gì? Đối với các doanh nghiệp hiện đã áp dụng các biệp pháp tốt nhất để quản lý vấn đề bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động, có lẻ không có them nhiều yêu cầu đối với quí vị. Tuy nghiên, Nếu quí vị chưa thực hiện điều này thì điều quan trọng là quí vị nên rà soát lại chính sách và qui trình bảo đảm sức khỏe và an toàn lao động hiện hành trong doanh nghiệp của mình để đảm bảo chúng còn phù hợp. Điều hết sức quan trọng là các quản lý cấp cao nên biết trách nhiệm của mình và được đào tạo/huấn luyện đầy đủ.

Có một số tổ chức cung cấp hổ trợ cho doanh nghiệp về vấn đề này. Xin vui lòng trao đổi với thành viên của Plantfarm để được hướng đẫn đến phù hợp.

Cuối cùng thì doanh nghiệp nào chủ động trong lảnh vực này sẽ nằm ở vị trí tốt hơn để quản lý rủi ro trong nông trang ở WA dưới luật mới.

THÊM THÔNG TIN Contact Tyson Fry, Farm Business Consultant, di động 0437 207 725 or go to Planfarm.com.au

Còn 3 cấp độ tội nhẹ hơn nữa mà doanh nghiệp cần biết chúng sẽ dẫn đến bị phạt nặng hay ở tù: WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

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THE IMPORTANCE OF A FINANCIAL AND BUSINESS REVIEW — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Tầm quan trọng của việc rà soát tình hình tài chính và kinh doanh TRUYỀN VÕ CHUYÊN VIÊN KHUYẾN NÔNG VIỆT NAM, HIỆP HỘI RAU CẢI TÂY ÚC

Trong vai trò là một chuyên viên phát triển tôi luôn thắc mắc đâu là yếu tố khác biệt giửa nông trang thành công và nông trang kém hiệu quả. Vì vậy tôi có cuộc trao đổi với vị đồng nghiệp Bryn Edwards. Hiệp hội rau cải Tây Úc vừa tổng kết năm thứ ba dự án đánh giá tình hình tài chính doang nghiệp và khởi động chương trình Tăng cường năng lực cho doanh nghiệp rau hoa quả1 mà Bryn là giám đốc.

Bryn bình luận rằng cả hai dự án nêu bật sự bao quát và tác động của nhiều thách thức mà ngành rau hoa quả đang đối mặt, nhưng điều đáng ghi nhớ nhất là doanh nghiệp thành công có thể đối 1 https://issuu.com/vegetableswa/docs/ wagrower_winter_20_lr__1_

đầu các thách thức đó hiệu quả hơn khi họ có sự quản lý tài chính chặt chẽ và kiến thức sâu sắc về hoạt động của doanh nghiệp cũng như luôn tích cực tìm kiếm cơ hội học hỏi và rèn luyện kỹ năng này thông qua các dự án như hai dự án nêu trên2.

cấp nhiều kiến thức có ý nghĩa và rất chi tiết - chẳng hạn như tỉ xuất lợi nhuận bình quân toàn ngành, chênh lệch giửa những nông hộ trong tốp 25% hiệu quả nhất và 25% kém nhất so với bình quân toàn ngành cũng như yết tố nào giúp nông hộ nằm trong nhóm hiệu quả cao.

Trong cả hai dự án nông gia ngành rau màu được tiếp xúc với chuyên gia quản lý, người sẽ giúp tiến hành phân tích chuyên sâu tình hình tài chính doanh nghiệp. Tiếp theo đó nông gia sẽ nhận được một báo cáo độc lập, chi tiết, và bảo mật về thực trạng doanh nghiệp và các điểm cần cải thiện để gia tăng lợi nhuận. Bảng báo cáo cũng cung cấp sự so sánh mức độ hiệu quả của doanh nghiệp với mặt bằng chung thông qua công tác điều tra phân tích toàn ngành.

Bỏ qua các con số thống kê chi tiết thì nhận xét của Bryn về nông hộ đạt hiệu quả đơn giản là họ tổ chức rất giỏi.

Là một chuyên viên phát triển nông thôn làm việc cho Hiệp hôi Rau cải Tây Úc bản thân tôi dĩ nhiên là không được tiếp cận báo cáo tình hình tài chánh của từng nông gia tham gia chương trình, nhưng dự án điều tra và đánh giá tình hình tài chính doanh nghiệp đã cung

“Quí vị có thể chạy xe ngang qua 2 nông trang và thấy rằng chúng nhìn rất giống nhau, nhưng chính những điều diển ra bên trong mới đáng nói – cách quản lý nông trang và quản lý tài chính mới là điều làm cho chúng có sự khác biệt lớn”.

Kế đến Bryn và tôi thảo luận về những điểm chung nào của các nông hộ trong tốp hiệu quả cao?

Rỏ ràng là người quản lý những nông hộ thành công thương suy nghĩ thấu đáo và liên tục rà soát kế hoạch. Chính điều này là gia tăng cơ hội sinh lợi. Họ luôn kiểm tra ngân sách và chi tiêu và nắm rỏ chi phí sản xuất thực cũng như năng

Source: www.plexusconsulting.co.nz/blog/post/54694/Stuck-in-2nd-Gear

2 https://ausveg.com.au/articles/report-sheds-light-on-profitability-of-wa-vegetable-growers-2/

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xuất ước tính suốt mùa vụ. Họ cũng có khả năng điều chỉnh kế hoạch khi có vấn đề xuất hiện, họ cũng là những người ra quyết định có tính chiến lược và cũng là người rất chú trọng vào hiệu quả đầu tư một khi phải ra quyết định chi tiêu.

Sau đây là một số đặc điểm bổ xung để gia tăng khử năng sinh lợi trong ngành rau màu:

1. Lúc nào cũng biết chính xác công việc sắp tới phải tiến hành.

Một nông gia hẳn phải biết kế hoạch lúc nào thì chuẩn bị sẳn sàng cho mùa vụ mới (dọn vườn, chọn giống, đặt mua cây giống/hạt giống, làm đất, nghỉ dưỡng cuối mùa…vv) Căn bản là tất cả công việc đều được lên kế hoạch tuần tự rỏ rang vì thế họ có thể trở tay khi có vấn đề trục trặc.

2. Dựa vào danh mục công việc theo kế hoạch nông gia thu xếp thời gian cùng với các việc quan trọng khác phải hoàn thành Nghề nông thường bao gồm nhiều nhiệm vụ khác nhau, chính vì vậy mà bản kế hoạch công việc giúp họ chú ý đến nhiệm vụ sản xuất. Nông gia có kế hoạch đày đủ sẽ biết họ cần công cụ và loại vật tư gì, khi nào, bao nhiêu nhân công. Chính vì vậy mà họ chuẩn bị các thứ luôn sẳn sàng hoặc hiểu rỏ cần phải chi tiêu để đầu tư thêm thứ gì hay thuê mươn nhân công từ nguồn nào hay phải giảm bớt qui mô sản xuất lại một khi thiếu nhân công hay các nhu cầu cần thiết không thể đáp ứng.

3. Song song với kế hoạch hoạt động là kế hoạch tài chánh

qua việc tập huấn, học hỏi, rà soát và liên tục cải tiến qua thời gian.

Một khi đã có kế hoạch hành động thì nông gia lên được kế hoạch vật tư cần thiết phải mua sắm và nắm được chi phí sản xuất. Thật ra học có thể lên được bảng ngân sách chi tiết mua thứ nào, bao nhiêu. Đôi khi chuẩn bị mua sắm vật tư trước còn giúp họ có giả rẻ hơn vì vậy khả năng sinh lợi cao hơn.

Một nông gia thành công thường có tính cởi mở và trao đổi thông tin một cách hiệu quả. Thường họ sản sàng tiếp nhận ý kiến mới và có thể phân tích ý nghỉa của chúng dể bổ xung vào hoạt động trong nông trang mình. Các thông tin chuyên ngành và tư vấn về doanh nghiệp thương đến từ các đối tác đáng tin cậy như kế toán, các nhà tư vấn kỹ thuật ở địa phương, chuyên viên phát triwwrn nông thôn, nhân công trong nông trang và những người lưu tâm đến ngành. Họ là những người nên kết nối vì họ có thể ít nhiều có lợi để giúp quí vị đạt được mục tiêu làm ăn hay giới thiệu các phương pháp mới.

4. Đặc biệt chú ý sao cho luôn quyết định chính xác Một nông gia thành công thường là người quyết đoán trong điều hành và trong quản lý tài chánh với sự chú tâm đặc biệt vào kiểm soát ngân sách/chi phí và hiệu quả đầu tư. Họ hiểu được đâu là quyết định quan trọng cần phải ra, thông tìn gì cần biết để giúp ra quyết định đúng và lúc nào ra quyết định là hợp lý. Họ cũng có khả năng kiểm soát một cách hiệu quả về giá, sản lượng, chi phí và các hướng làm ăn sinh lợi.

Qua nhiều mùa vụ người nông gia sẽ có được khái niệm về khả năng lợi nhuận của nông trang mình. Một khi cấu trúc về chi phí sản xuất và khả năng lợi nhuận được hiểu rỏ thì nông gia có thể ra quyết định chính xác về mức giá bán mong muốn và mức trần nợ cần để đầu tư. Kết quả cuối cùng là hạ thấp tác động bất lợi cho nông trang.

5. Tính cởi mở và chịu trao đổi thông tin Trở thành người làm việc có kế hoạch, có kỹ năng phân tích và ra quyết định chính xác không phải là bản tính bẩm sinh. Cần phải rèn luyện kỹ năng thông

Gần mười năm công tác tại Hiệp hội Rau màu Tây Úc, tôi biết rằng nông gia là những người cần cù. Thời giờ của họ hầu hết là làm việc ngoài đồng. Họ thường không có đủ thời giờ để chu toàn tất cả mọi việc trong nông trang. Tôi thường nghe họ nói rằng thời gian có hạn, phải tận dụng thời gian làm việc hơn là lo việc phân tích tình hình doanh nghiệp và lên kế hoạch chi tiết. Về vấn đề này tôi cho rằng ngoài tính cần cù thì “làm việc một cách có tổ chức” cũng là một phần thiết yếu để nông trang thành công. Dành một phần thời gian làm kế hoạch sẽ tiết kiệm nhiều thời gian hơn trong quá trình nông trang hoạt động.

THÊM THÔNG TIN Võ Thế Truyền, Chuyên viên phát triển nông thôn, (08) 9486 7515, di động 0457 457 559, truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au

 DỰA vào danh mục công việc theo kế hoạch nông gia thu xếp thời gian cùng với các việc quan trọng khác phải hoàn thành.

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YOUR BUSINESS

WHAT’S YOUR COVID-19 PLAN? — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Kế hoạch COVID-19 của quí vị là gì?

Quí lý rủi ro là một trong những thành phần thiết yếu trong công tác quản lý doanh nghiệp.

Cho dù là một quán cà phê, một câu lạc bộ thể dục hay một nông trang thì rủi ro luôn là một trạng thái lẩn khuất đâu đó và trỏ thành một thành tố trong hoạt động hằng ngày. Nhũng người quản lý giỏi thường có ý thức quản lý rủi ro rất tốt và luôn có sự chuẩn bị đối phó. Nếu quí vị là một trong số họ quí vị có thể đang tự hỏi “ công việc làm ăn sẽ ra sao nếu mình hoặc nhân công mình bị nhiểm COVID 19?”

Khi lớn lên trong một nông trang người ta thường có sự chuẩn bị cho rủi ro cháy rừng. Một loạt các việc cần làm được nhớ sản trong đầu sẽ được thực hiện khi rủi ro đến. Tương tự như vậy, quản lý rủi ro reong làm ăn cũng nhằm mục đích bảo vệ quí vị và doanh nghiệp của quí vị một khi có rủi ro liên quan đến kinh tế, bao gồm cả rủi ro cháy rừng. Các kế hoạch ứng phó rủi ro thường bao gồm danh mục các hướng dẫn có thể được nhanh chóng thực hiện để giảm thiểu thiệt hại khi có sự thay đổi bất lợi. Thật không may là lúc này chúng ta đang trong tình trạng bất an do COVID 19.

Ngoài yếu tố ảnh hưởng sức khỏe tác động lên vấn đề nhân công khi việc bình thường hóa các qui định kiểm soát COVID 19 sẽ tạo nên sự thay đổi lớn

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

lao lên chính sách lao động và các ảnh hưởng của chính sách lên doanh nghiệp. Chúng ta đã thấy sự thay đổi chính sách đã tác động đến các tiểu bang phía Đông như thế nào và giờ thì chính Tây Úc đang đối mặt với viển cảnh hệ thống phân phối bị ảnh hưởng.

Quí vị có thể làm gì để sắn sàng khi sự thay đổi ập đến?

Hiệp hội Rau màu Tây úc đã xây dựng một danh mục bao gồm các câu hỏi cơ bản giúp doanh nghiệp của quí vị chuẩn bị sẳn sàng cho sự bùng phát COVID-19. Sử dụng bảng danh mục có trên trang thông tin mạng của chúng tôi (đường dẫn ở cuối bài) giúp quí vị hiểu rỏ hơn tình mức độ sản sàng của quí vị và quí vị cần làm them điều gì để bảo vệ sức khỏe của chính mình, của nhân công và cho toàn thể doanh nghiệp.

Cũng không nên xem nhẹ tầm quan trọng của việc khuyến khích sự trao đổi thông tin quanh vấn đề COVID 19 liên quan đến mức độ rủi ro của doanh nghiệp. Hảy cân nhắc những điều mình làm được, ghi ra giấy điểm mạnh, điểm yếu, cơ hội, rủi ro trong việc bảo vệ doanh nghiệp của mình trước COVID-19: Điều gì mình có thể làm tốt hơn, điều gì cần được cải tiến?

YOUR BUSINESS

Các nông trang khác nhau nên mức độ ảnh hưởng cũng khác nhau. Hảy chuẩn bị tốt nhất những gì có thể để hành động ngay cả trước khi rủi ro xảy ra là cách hiệu quả nhất để giảm thiểu ảnh hưởng và đối đầu với ruit ro. Nên nhớ rằng ai có sẳn kế hoạch đối đầu với rủi ro sẽ có cơ hội sống sót cao hơn những người không chuẩn bị.

Các thông tin khác về COVID -19: • health.gov.au • health.wa.gov.au • wa.gov.au/government/covid-19-coronavirus

THÊM THÔNG TIN Xin vui lòng xem danh mục câu hỏi về kế hoạch COVID19 trong trang mạng: https://vegetableswa.com. au/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/covid-businessrediness-checklist.pdf

Nếu quí vị quan tâm về bang cảnh báo COVID-19 và An ninh sinh học nông trang xin vui long liên hệ: Michael Bartholomew, Regional Development Officer VegNET3.0 at michael.bartholomew@vegetableswa. com.au

Các thông tin khác về yêu cầu quản lý doanh nghiệp có trong trang mạng của Phòng thương mại và nghành nghề (Chamber of Commerce and Industry): cciwa.com

 MICHAEL Bartholomew (left) and David Ellement (right) holding the new combined COVID-19 and biosecurity signage now available for grower members. Please contact vegetablesWA if you are interested in implementing these on your farm.

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YOUR PRODUCTION

Permits

Current Minor Use Permits can also be searched by specific crop or pest types at https://portal.apvma.gov.au/permits Permit No. Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER14726

Raptor WG herbicide

Adzuki & faba beans

Grass & broadleaf weed control

30-Sep-24

PER14936

Haloxyfop

Adzuki bean

Grass weeds

30-Jun-24

PER12237

Pendimethalin

Adzuki bean

Broad leaf weeds

30-Nov-25

PER88808

Alpha-Cypermethrin

Asian brassica leafy vegetables

Heliothis, white cabbage butterfly, cluster caterpillar, cabbage moth

31-Jul-26

PER12716

Confidor 200 SC insecticide

Asian root vegetables

Greenhouse whitefly & green peach aphid

31-Jul-25

PER84890

Pyriproxfen

Beans

Silverleaf whitefly

31-Jul-24

PER86530

Status herbicide

Beans

Annual rye grass & winter grass

30-Nov-26

PER91774

Chloridazon

Beetroot

Various broadleaf & grass weeds

30-Apr-22

PER90595

Uniform fungicide

Beetroot

Pythium & rhizoctonia

30-Jun-24

PER14891

Trifloxystrobin

Beetroot

Alternaria leaf spot

30-Sep-24

PER81260

Imidacloprid

Beetroot

Aphids & thrips

31-Jul-25

PER87630

Serenade Opti biofungicide

Brassica leafy vegetables

Bacterial spot blight

30-Jun-22

PER87670

XenTari WG Bta biological insecticide

Brassica leafy vegetables

Diamond back moth, cabbage white butterfly, helicoverpa & vegetable looper

31-Jul-24

PER14907

Emamectin

Brassica leafy vegetables

Various pests

30-Nov-24

PER10845

Barmac Zineb fungicide

Brassica leafy vegetables

Cercospora leaf spot & downy mildew

31-May-25

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Brassica leafy vegetables, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, chicory, endive, radicchio, rocket, carrots & parsnip

Various fungal diseases

31-Mar-27

PER87563

Warlock insecticide

Brassica vegetables

Liriomyza leaf miners

30-Jun-24

PER87773

Devrinol-C 500WG herbicide

Brassica vegetables

Broadleaf & grass control

31-Aug-22

PER14596

Chlorpyrifos

Brassica vegetables

Vegetable beetle adults

30-Sep-22

PER81876

ABAMECTIN

Brassica vegetables, bulb Leaf miner vegetables, fruiting vegetables

30-Apr-24

PER81867

DIPTEX 150 WP

Brassica vegetables, fruiting vegetables

Leaf miner

30-Nov-23

PER89280

Durivo insecticide

Brassicas, leafy vegetables

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER84261

Admiral Insect Growth Regulator (pyriproxyfen)

Broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage & cauliflower

Silverleaf whitefly

31-Aug-25

PER14432

Pendimethalin

Brussels sprouts

Grasses & broadleaf weeds

30-Jun-24

PER80910

Iprodione

Brussels sprouts & eggplant

Grey mould

31-Jul-25

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, silverbeet, endive, radicchio, chicory & processing peas

Downy mildew

31-Mar-25

PER89185

Mainman 500 WG insecticide

Bulb vegetable

Thrips

31-Aug-23

PER81408

Phosphorous acid

Capsicum

Phytophthora soil fungus

31-Jul-25

PER12565

Scala fungicide

Capsicum & lettuce (protected Botrytis rots crops only)

114

®

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

30-Jun-25

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No. Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER13901

Glyphosate (shielded sprayer)

Capsicums, snow peas & sugar snap peas

Annual & perennial grass & broadleaf weeds

30-Jun-24

PER90346

Flonicamid

Capsicums & eggplants

Green peach aphid

31-May-24

PER11747

2,2-Dichloropropionic acid

Carrot crops (for seed)

Promotion of bolting & grass weed control

2-Dec-22

PER89181

Sumagic Uniconazole

Carrot seed crops

Plant height reduction

31-Oct-23

PER88504

Propazine products

Carrot seed crops

Various weeds including nightshade, fat hen, wireweed

30-Apr-26

PER88430

Versys insecticide

Carrots

Aphids including green peach aphid & carrot aphid

31-Jul-23

PER13305

Glyphosate (shielded sprayer)

Carrots

Certain broadleaf & grass weeds

30-Jun-22

PER86665

Fipronil

Carrots

White fringed weevil & symphylids

31-Jul-24

PER13147

Lontrel

Cauliflower

Capeweed & clover

30-Sep-24

PER90927

Cyantraniliprole

Celery

Leaf miners

31-Dec-23

PER14843

Indoxacarb (Avatar insecticide)

Celery

Heliothis, lightbrown apple moth, lucerne leaf roller & vegetable weevil

30-Sep-24

PER82358

Esfenvalerate

Celery

Helicoverpa armigera

31-Jan-26

PER88066

Emamectin

Celery

Helicoverpa, lightbrown apple moth & cluster caterpillar.

31-Aug-24

PER83203

Fipronil (Regent® 200 SC)

Celery & field lettuce

Western flower thrips, onion thrips

31-Dec-24

PER12489

Imidacloprid

Celery, cucumber, peppers & cape gooseberry

Aphids, whitefly, thrips

31-May-25

PER13673

Metalaxyl-M+mancozeb

Celery, silverbeet & spinach

Various diseases

31-Jul-26

PER14457

Alpha-cypermethrin

Chicory, leeks, spring onions, shallots

Red-legged earth mite, onion thrips

30-Jun-24

PER88558

Imidacloprid

Chilli peppers

Silverleaf whitefly

30-Sep-23

PER91733

Cyprodinil & Fludioxonil

Chillies

Botrytis

30-Nov-23

PER86428

Serenade Opti

Cucumber

Bacterial spot

30-Sep-24

PER14722

Abamectin

Cucumber, zucchini, squash

Tomato red spider mite

31-Jul-25

PER80138

Alpha-cypermethrin

Cucurbits

Cucumber fruit fly

31-Mar-25

PER88032

Serenade Opti Biofungicide

Eggplant

Early blight, botrytis grey mould, powdery mildew, bacterial spot

31-Oct-22

PER14186

Success Neo (spinetoram)

Eggplant

Melon thrips

30-Sep-24

PER8930

Phorate

Eggplant, peppers, shallots & spring onions

Aphids, jassids, mites, thrips & onion maggot

30-Nov-24

PER14839

Zineb

Eggplant, spinach & silverbeet Anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.)

30-Sep-24

PER80717

Trichlorfon

Eggplant, Thai eggplant, pepino & cape gooseberry

Fruit fly

31-Aug-25

PER82378

Dimethoate

Faba beans

Mirid bugs

31-Mar-26

PER85363

FulFill insecticide

Faba beans

Green peach aphid & faba bean aphid

31-Aug-26

PER82748

Imazethapyr

Faba beans

Labelled weeds

31-Oct-26

PER82634

Basagran post-emergent herbicide

Faba beans (vicia faba)

Labelled weeds

31-Jul-26

PER90232

Clopyralid, fluroxypyr & oxyfluorfen

Fennel, lavender, mint & parsley

Various broadleaf weeds (per product labels)

31-Mar-24

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

115

YOUR PRODUCTION

permits (cont.)

Permit No. Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER82456

Ridomil Gold MZ WG systemic & protective fungicide

Field grown capsicum, chillies, paprika

Downy mildew

31-Jul-25

PER87754

Folicur

Garlic

Orange rust

31-Jul-22

PER88363

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Garlic

Various pests

30-Jun-23

PER88362

Various Products

Garlic

Fungi & mildew

30-Jun-25

PER82015

Clethodim

Garlic

Winter grass

31-Dec-23

PER87015

Lambda- Cyhalothrin

Garlic

Various pests

31-Aug-24

PER87005

Abamectin

Garlic

Bulb mite

30-Sep-24

PER14886

Pendimethalin

Garlic

Grass & broadleaf weeds

31-Jan-25

PER14604

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Garlic

Selected insect pests

30-Sep-25

PER89516

Various Copper fungicides

Garlic

Downy mildew

30-Sep-25

PER90737

Success Neo

Ginger

Fall armyworm

30-Sep-23

PER12407

Fusilade (fluazifop)

Ginger

Grass weeds

31-Oct-23

PER12409

Chlorpyrifos

Ginger

Symphylids

30-Jun-24

PER87743

Dipel DF Biological insecticide

Ginger

Lepidoptera

31-Jul-24

PER91306

Magnet Insect Attractant Technology

Ginger

Fall armyworm

31-Oct-24

PER90758

Coragen insecticide

Ginger (all cultivars)

Fall armyworm

30-Sep-23

PER85387

Metribuzin

Ginger (Zingiber officiale)

Annual grass & broadleaf weeds

30-Nov-25

PER88904

THIRAM

Ginger (Zingiber officiale)

Pythium soft rot or pythium rhizome rot

30-Nov-25

PER89984

Metalaxyl-M or metalaxyl & phosphorous acid

Ginger (Zingiber officiale)

Pythium soft rot or pythium rhizome rot

28-Feb-26

PER91292

Luna Sensation fungicide

Green beans

Powdery mildew

31-Jul-22

PER85103

Nufarm Nuprid

Green beans

Silver leaf whitefly

30-Sep-22

PER91492

Clethodim

Green beans

Certain annual grass weeds

31-Jan-25

PER14896

Bentazone (Basagran)

Green peas (processing)

Broadleaf weeds

30-Sep-24

PER14326

Captan

Leafy lettuce, cucumber, capsicum & chilli

Grey mould

30-Jun-24

PER12351

Imidacloprid

Leafy lettuce, okra, green beans

Silverleaf whitefly

30-Apr-25

PER14906

Triadimenol

Leek, chives, shallot, spring & Chinese onions

White rot (sclerotium)

31-Oct-24

PER81271

Various Actives

Leeks & garlic

Grass & broadleaf weeds

30-Sep-25

PER14742

Methabenzthiazuron (Tribunil herbicide)

Leeks, spring onions & shallots

Various broadleaf & grass weeds

30-Apr-24

PER82273

Chlorothalonil

Lentils

Potential exotic pests & diseases

31-Mar-25

PER13301

Alpha-cypermethrin

Lettuce

Red-legged earth mite & vegetable weevil

31-May-25

PER14210

Acramite Miticide

Lettuce

Two-spotted mite

31-Oct-26

PER91632

Phenmedipham

Lettuce (direct seeded)

TBA

29-Feb-24

PER14964

Chlorothalonil

Lettuce seedlings

Antracnose (shot hole)

31-Jul-26

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Betanal)

Lettuce, chicory, endive, radicchio & spinach

Broadleaf weeds

31-May-25

PER89331

Success Neo insecticide

Onion

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

116

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No. Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER13119

Diazinon

Onions

Onion thrips

31-May-23

PER89991

Dimethenamid-P

Onions

Annual ryegrass

28-Feb-24

PER84734

Verdict (haloxyfop)

Onions

Storksbill

31-Dec-24

PER80282

Alpha-Cypermethrin

Onions

Onion thrips

30-Nov-25

PER14858

Pendimethalin

Parsnip

Grasses & broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-25

PER12048

Prometryn

Parsnip & carrot

Weeds

31-Jul-25

PER14695

Ridomil Gold 25G (metalaxyl-M)

Parsnips

Pythium spp. & Phytophthora spp.

30-Jun-24

PER80344

Chlorpyrifos

Potato

Black beetle, wingless grasshopper, red-legged earth mite

31-Jul-22

PER84245

Movento 240 SC

Potato, sweet potato, tomato, capsicum, chilli, peppers, eggplant

Tomato potato psyllid

30-Apr-25

PER11768

Chlorpyrifos

Pumpkin

African black beetle

28-Feb-23

PER11949

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Radish & beetroot

Various insects

31-Mar-25

PER11441

Propachlor

Radish, swede, turnip

Grass & broadleaf weeds

31-Oct-24

PER13444

Propiconazole

Radishes

Cercospora

31-Dec-26

PER13152

MCPA 250 Selective herbicide

Rhubarb

Broadleaf weeds.

30-Sep-26

PER91493

Azoxystrobin

Rockmelon, honeydew melon & watermelon

Post harvest rot & stem end rot

30-Sep-23

PER10988

cyanazine

Snow & sugar snap peas

Weeds as per label

31-Mar-25

PER14470

Mancozeb & Dimethomorph

Snow peas

Downy mildew

28-Feb-27

PER11764

Spiroxamine

Snow peas & sugar snap peas

Powdery mildew

31-Aug-26

PER14505

Pyrimethanil

Snow peas & sugar snap peas

Grey mould (botrytis)

30-Jun-24

PER10938

Imidacloprid

Snow peas & sugar snap peas

Greenhouse whitefly & green peach aphid

31-Jan-25

PER10976

Bentazone

Snow peas & sugar snap peas

Broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-25

PER87878

Delegate insecticide

Snow peas, sugar snap peas, green beans

Liriomyza leaf miners

28-Feb-23

PER12961

Karate insecticide (lambdacyhalothrin)

Soil drench (tree fruit, nuts, vines & vegetables)

Mediterranean fruit fly & Queensland fruit fly

31-Mar-25

PER81244

Fluazifop-p-butyl

Specified vegetables & herbs

Annual grass weeds

30-Jun-22

PER87631

Coragen insecticide

Spinach & silverbeet

Cabbage leaf miner

30-Jun-24

PER14703

Tramat 500 SC Selective herbicide Spinach (Spinacia oleracea (Ethofumesate) only) & silverbeet

Various weeds

31-Jul-24

PER14842

Copper Oxychloride, Cuprous Oxide or Cupric Hydroxide

Spring onions & shallots

Downy mildew

30-Sep-24

PER14890

Methomyl (Lannate-L)

Spring onions & shallots

Western flower thrips

31-Oct-24

PER88179

Propargite

Sweet corn

Two-spotted mite

31-Dec-22

PER88170

Etoxazole

Sweet corn

Two-spotted mite

29-Feb-24

PER88018

Chlorpyrifos

Sweet corn

African black beetle

30-Nov-22

PER89705

Indoxacarb

Sweet corn

Fall armyworm

30-Jun-23

PER90374

Avatar eVo insecticide (Indoxacarb)

Sweet corn

Fall armyworm

30-Nov-23

PER90841

Abrade Abrasive Barrier insecticide

Sweet corn

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-24

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

117

YOUR PRODUCTION

permits (cont.)

Permit No. Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER84531

Methoxyfenozide

Sweet corn

Lepidopteran pests

31-Aug-25

PER13116

Propiconazole

Sweet corn

Northern corn leaf blight

31-Jan-26

PER86245

Veritas fungicide

Sweet corn

Maize rust

28-Feb-26

PER12047

Thiabendazole

Sweet potato

Field rots caused by scurf & root rot

30-Sep-26

PER13151

Mouseoff & Rattoff Zinc Phosphide Baits

Sweet potato

House mouse & introduced rats

31-Mar-27

PER89935

Callisto

Sweetcorn

Wild radish, Capeweed, fat hen

31-Aug-24

PER88426

Fusilade Forte 128 EC herbicide

Tees fairways roughs

Various grasses

31-May-23

PER88484

Nimrod

Tomato

Powdery mildew

30-Jun-22

PER88277

Huwa-San TR50 hydrogen peroxide

Tomato

Agrobacterium

31-Oct-22

PER89419

Miravis

Tomato

Powdery mildew

30-Sep-23

PER87619

Entrust SC Naturalyte

Tomato

Various thrips

31-Aug-24

PER91609

Bifenazate

Tomatoes

Two-spotted mites

31-Aug-22

PER91610

Clofentezine

Tomatoes

Two-spotted mites

31-Aug-22

PER91852

Intervene WG fungicide (Polyoxin D zinc salt)

Tomatoes

Leaf mould

31-Dec-22

PER91617

Kanemite Miticide

Tomatoes

Two-spotted mite

29-Feb-24

PER90919

Metrafenone

Tomatoes

Powdery mildew

30-Sep-24

PER91109

Talendo fungicide

Tomatoes

Powdery mildew

31-Oct-24

PER90918

Alpha Amylase (From Bacillus Amyloliquifaciens)

Tomatoes

Powdery mildew

30-Nov-24

PER85076

Peratec Plus fungicide

Tomatoes

Fusarium wilt

28-Feb-25

PER81713

MainMan 500WG insecticide

Tomatoes

Silverleaf whitefly

31-Mar-25

PER13566

Methomyl

Tomatoes & capsicums

Fruit fly

31-Mar-26

PER13567

BIFENTHRIN

Tomatoes & capsicums

Fruit fly systems approach

31-Mar-26

PER13724

Previcur

Tomatoes (protected)

Root rot

31-May-26

PER13720

Pristine

Tomatoes (protected)

Powdery mildew

30-Jun-26

PER13726

Trifloxystrobin

Tomatoes (protected)

Powdery mildew

30-Jun-26

PER13721

Cyprodinil plus Fludioxonil

Tomatoes (protected)

Grey mould (botrytis)

30-Sep-26

PER13717

Amistar Top (azoxystrobin + difenoconazole)

Tomatoes (protected)

Powdery mildew

30-Nov-26

PER89870

Entrust Organic insecticide

Various

Fall armyworm

31-Jul-23

PER11604

Metsulfuron methyl, Triclopyr, Picloram + Triclopyr

Various areas

Kudzu

30-Sep-24

PER89572

PAKS 1080 Concentrate

Various areas

Feral pigs

31-Oct-24

PER90213

S-methoprene

Various areas

Red imported fire ant

31-Mar-26

PER82104

CUSTODIA

Various beans

Powdery mildew

30-Nov-22

PER89371

Affirm insecticide

Various cereals

Fall armyworm

31-Aug-23

PER90719

Amitrole, ammonium thiocyanate, Various crop & non crop areas Cactaceae MSMA, aminopyralid, picloram, triclopyr, glyphosate

31-Jan-24

PER90820

Fawligen — Spodoptera Frugiperda Multiple Nucleopolyhedrovirus (SfMNPV)

31-Mar-24

118

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

Various crops

Fall armyworm

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No. Product

Crop

Reason for use

Expiry date

PER89353

Chlorantraniliprole

Various crops

Fall armyworm

31-May-23

PER90928

Spinosad

Various crops

Leaf miners

30-Apr-24

PER11843

Malathion (maldison) & Chlorpyrifos

Various crops

Locusts

31-Jul-24

PER91125

Mouseoff 50 Zinc Phosphide Econobait

Various crops

Mice

31-May-22

PER89398

Magnet Insect Attractant Technology

Various crops

Fall armyworm

30-Jun-22

PER82426

PYRETHRINS

Various crops

Brown marmorated stink bug & yellowspotted stink bugs

31-Mar-23

PER89241

Success Neo & Delegate insecticide

Various crops

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89259

Altacor insecticide

Various crops

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89263

Proclaim Opti insecticide

Various crops

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89278

Avatar insecticide

Various crops

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER89279

Various products

Various crops

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER82552

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Various crops

Brown marmorated stink bug & yellow spotted stink bugs

30-Apr-23

PER91477

Spodovir Plus — Spodoptera Frugiperda Multiple Nucleopolyhedrovirus (SfMNPV)

Various crops

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-24

PER82341

Bifenazate

Various crops

Mites

30-Apr-25

PER87973

Difenoconazole fungicide

Various crops

Various diseases

31-Aug-25

PER89293

Lannate insecticide

Various crops as per label

Fall armyworm

30-Apr-23

PER91161

Chlorantraniliprole + thiamethoxam

Various leafy vegetables

Leaf miners

30-Jun-24

PER89285

Proclaim Opti insecticide

Various leafy vegetables, celery, blueberry

Fall armyworm

31-Mar-23

PER13230

Various herbicides

Various locations

Cannabis destruction

30-Jun-26

PER82551

Diazinon

Various onions & herbs, & cauliflower

Onion maggot, onion fly & thrips

31-Jan-24

PER91155

Spinetoram

Various vegetable & herb crops

Leaf miners

30-Jun-24

PER14583

Chlorpyrifos

Various vegetable crops

Various insect pests

31-Oct-24

PER14479

Propiconazole

Various vegetable crops

Various pests

30-Nov-24

PER90387

Benevia insecticide

Various vegetables

Liriomyza leaf miners

31-Dec-23

PER81702

Alpha-cypermethrin

Various vegetables

Various insect pests

28-Feb-24

PER87809

Durivo insecticide

Various vegetables

Various pests

30-Apr-24

PER13695

Ecocarb fungicide

Various vegetables

Powdery mildew

31-Jul-25

PER82459

Clethodim

Various vegetables

Various grass weeds

30-Sep-26

PER82895

Chlorothalonil

Various vegetables & herbs

Fungal diseases

31-Aug-25

PER89348

Prothioconazole fungicide

Watermelon

Furarium wilt

30-Nov-23

PER90718

Prothioconazole

Watermelon

Fusarium wilt

30-Nov-23

PER87918

Pestech Py-Bo

Zucchini

Ants, aphids, caterpillars, earwigs, leafhoppers, thrips & whitefly

30-Apr-22

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

119

SUPPLIER GUIDE

Supplier

guide

We welcome businesses to get in touch about our advertising opportunities. Please email comms@vegetableswa.com.au or call (08) 9486 7515 to find out more.

Fertiliser

Fumigation

Packaging & machinery

Solar

Planted Passion

TriCal Australia

WA Crates

Solar Direct Corporation

29 Deague Court North Perth, WA 6006 suz@plantedpassion.com.au

5 Chamberlain Street Wingfield, SA 5013 Phone: (08) 8347 3838 www.trical.com.au

Crate Yard, Market City, WA 6155 service@wacrates.com.au

21 Darlot Road Landsdale, WA 6065 Mobile: 0422 021 682 www.perthsolardirect.com.au

Labour Seasol 1027 Mountain Highway Bayswater, VIC 3153 Mobile: 0488 006 993 www.seasol.com.au

120

The WA Grower magazine is considered the most trusted magazine for the horticulture industry in Western Australia.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2022

Harvest Trail Information Service 123–130 Deakin Avenue Mildura, VIC 3500 Phone: (03) 5025 4093 https://jobsearch.gov.au/ harvest/

edp Australia Pty Ltd 31-35 O'Brien Street Mooroopna, VIC 3629 https://edp.com.au/

Storage Anthony Scaffidi Hamilton Road Donnybrook, WA 6239 Mobile: 0419 992 905 tscaffidi@optusnet.com.au

WA crates The professional packaging service for WA’s finest fresh fruit and vegetables

0 email: service@wacrates.com.au

MY BUS I N IS STRU ESS GGLING ... ...SO A MI Don’t downplay what’s playing on your mind.

Free and confidential mental health support from coaches with a small business background. No doctor’s referral required.

1300 945 301

beyondblue.org.au/newaccess-SBO