WA Grower Autumn 2018

VOL. 53 NO 1. AUTUMN 2018 $25.00 (inc GST)

wa

grower WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

vegetablesWA

Leafy Variety Field Day

Latest potato research findings

WELCOME

WA CITRUS

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

APC-VPC APC-PPC

REGIST E R N OW !

Following on from the successful Hort Connections 2017, this year’s event is set to become the most influential space for networking, education and business for the entire fresh produce industry.

VOL. 53 NO 1. AUTUMN 2018

45

WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

inside Your vegetablesWA magazine

20 YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

3

TOOL TIME

31

What’s over the ditch

76

Inaugural Pome Industry Summit

78

vegetablesWA CEO’s Report

4

FarmBiosecurity app

32

Export Development Project Lead

5

Veg Pest ID app

33

vegetablesWA President’s Report

6

Precision to Australian Agriculture

34

Potato Growers President’s Report

7

Potato Growers EO’s Report Todatoes campaign continues...

10

vegetablesWA Field Day

12

YOUR PRODUCTION

YOUR INDUSTRY

35

Soil moisture monitoring innovation 36 Mapping variation at harvest

40

Grower profile: Danny Trandos

42

13

Expanding horticulture around Myalup 44

Industry plans to manage TPP

14

2018 Melon Conference & Field Days 45

Calibrating your spray unit

16

Industry Extension Update

46

Quick response to Qfly detection

18

2018 Gascoyne Food Festival

48

Promising TPP control for growers

20

Capturing Gascoyne Food

50

Calcium cyanamide

21

Carnarvon Medfly eradication

52

Preserving peak freshness in broccoli 22 Potato response to high temperatures 24 Soil Wealth and ICP projects

26

Soil Borne Disease update

28

Permits 114

48

36 WA CITRUS

81

Collaboration benefits growers YOUR BUSINESS

82 85

Benchmarking 86 Odeum Farms

88

Food Fraud

90

HARPS changes

92

Watch the pennies

94

Building financial confidence

96

Horticulture Code of Conduct

98

YOUR MARKET

99

Grower profile: David & Monica Radomiljac 56

Export facilitators

Mission to Egypt

60

Peel food zone

62

Tool helping growers understand consumers 102

Potato Strategic Investment Plan

66

Vegetable Strategic Investment Plan 68

100

Fresh produce data at your doorstep 102

ABARES survey

104

Purple sweetcorn

106

71

VIETNAMESE TRANSLATIONS

107

Executive Manager Report

72

WHAT'S ON

120

Biting a BRAVO™ apple

74

POMEWEST

WA WAGrower GrowerAUTUMN SPRING 2017 2018

1

YOUR CONTACTS

contacts vegetablesWA

Management Committees

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

Vegetable Growers Association

Chief Executive Officer John Shannon m: 0488 111 526 e: john.shannon@vegetableswa.com.au Operations Manager Rebecca Blackman t: (08) 9486 7515 e: rebecca.blackman@vegetableswa.com.au Cover image: Jordan & David Radomiljac at Pemberley of Pemberton Photo | Lisa Hannaford

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

© 2018 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.

2

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Vietnamese Industry Extension Officer Truyen Vo m: 0457 457 559 e: truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au Industry Extension Officer Sam Grubisa m: 0427 373 037 e: sam.grubisa@vegetableswa.com.au Benchmark Lead Bryn Edwards m: 0417 409 821 e: bryn.edwards@vegetableswa.com.au Market Development Manager Claire McClelland m: 0477 477 044 e: claire.mcclelland@vegetableswa.com.au Quality Assurance Coordinator Joel Dinsdale m: 0417 857 675 e: joel.dinsdale@vegetableswa.com.au Finance & Administration Officer Christina Ford t: (08) 9486 7515 e: christina.ford@vegetableswa.com.au Export Development Project Lead Manus Stockdalem m: 0448 897 652 e: manus.stockdale@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, 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

President

Dan Kuzmicich m: 0408 910 761

Vice President

Maurice Grubisa m: 0413 050 182

Committee

M. Dobra L. East P. Ivankovich A. Natoli B. Nguyen D. Nguyen P. Shain

m: 0417 174 110 m: 0419 047 371 m: 0428 919 211 t: (08) 9405 4817 m: 0418 939 982 t: (08) 9941 8376 m: 0419 041 045

Carnarvon

Metro North

Gingin Manjimup Myalup Metro North Geraldton Carnarvon Carnarvon

Potato Growers Association President

Vaughan Carter m: 0417 092 505

Vice President

Daniel Omodei m: 0427 761 121

Treasurer

Mia Rose m: 0409 112 245

Committee

C. Ayres G. Bendotti R. Humfrey D. Terrigno

Busselton

Pemberton

Myalup

m: 0428 451 014 Albany m: 0427 569 903 Pemberton m: 0427 148 832 Gingin/Dandaragan m: 0417 771 333 Manjimup

Advertising For information on WA Grower advertising rates and sizing please go to: www.vegetableswa.com.au/wa-growersmagazine and click on the download media kit link.

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

your

industry associations

Your industry associations

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

3

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

vegetablesWA 70

7

TH

T

BIRTH

BY JOHN SHANNON CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

his year, West Australian Vegetable Growers Association Inc celebrates our 70th anniversary of assisting West Australian vegetable growers.

As I reflect upon this milestone it occurs to me that our organisation today is very different compared to 1948 as the broader industry is different. In 1948 our industry comprised of very large numbers of small growers and the post-war migration boom which brought so many of our current grower families to West Australia had only just begun. Similarly, our Association performed its duties in 1948 via a dedicated Committee of Management; whereas today we also have staff performing the range of advocacy, extension, research, market development, quality assurance, and business improvement services for growers.

I’m pleased to say that in this anniversary year things continue grow and change at vegetablesWA with a number of new initiatives to help growers.

First amongst these is a leafy line variety trial and field day, to be held at Loose Leaf Lettuce Company on 3rd May. We are pleased to have the support of seed companies and trust growers will get a lot out of the day.

4

2018 AY

1948

D

CEO’s Report

Happy

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

The field day will also feature a discussion with Dr Doris Blaesing about soil health and Dr Len Tesoriero about the soil borne disease trials in baby leaf. You can find more information on the field day on page 12 of this edition of the WA Grower. vegetablesWA have commenced coordinating a national export facilitation program funded by Hort Innovation. The program is being led by Claire McClelland and to help deliver the West Australian component of the program we are extremely pleased to welcome Mr Manus Stockdale to the vegetablesWA team.

Manus comes to us with experience in value chain analysis and development so will be a real asset to the industry.

The other significant development at vegetablesWA has been our recent office relocation to 702-704 Murray Street in West Perth, just around the corner from our old place on Outram Street. The necessary larger space and professional facilities have already assisted in our work. If you’re in town sometime please feel free to drop in.

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

Manus Stockdale

Export Development Project Lead As growers will know the Hort Code of Conduct will commence on the 1st April 2018.

Many growers are being approached by wholesalers to sign a new Horticulture Produce Agreement due to the new Horticulture Code of Conduct. Growers should be very careful to understand the terms being proposed and seek independent legal advice before signing. vegetablesWA has provided the contact details of two law firms on page 98 with previous experience with the Code if required.

We have plans for 2018 which we look forward to announcing in future WA Grower editions. Growers needing assistance can always call on (08) 9486 7515.

MORE INFORMATION John Shannon, phone 0488 111 526 or email john.shannon@vegetableswa.com.au

M

anus Stockdale has joined vegetablesWA to fulfil the role of Export Development Project Lead.

Manus will be working on a Hort Innovation funded project (VG16085: Export Facilitators) with a focus on building export skills and supply chains within the vegetable industry.

This three year project will also see the development of export plans for participating vegetable growers and assist in supporting the Vegetable Industry Export Market Development Strategy. More information about this project can be found in this edition of the WA Grower on page 100.

Manus joins vegetablesWA after previously working for the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. His previous roles within DPIRD have been focused on beef exports and supply chain development.

Manus has previously worked with producers, exporters and importers to assist them to capitalise on beef export market opportunities.

Manus’ previous experience has provided him a wealth of relevant skills that can be transferred to the vegetable industry.

His experience in export development, from the perspective of a different agricultural sector, will be invaluable when working within the vegetable industry.

We look forward to having Manus on the team and continuing to work with growers who are interested in further developing export opportunities.

MORE INFORMATION Manus can be contacted on 0448 897 652 or manus.stockdale@vegetableswa.com.au

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YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

vegetablesWA

President’s Report Mid-season for the Perth growers and south of Perth, prices have been average across the board so far. So I am pleased to see growers making changes as mentioned above to suit their business and stay viable in this industry.

It’s West Australian Vegetable Growers Association Inc 70th birthday coming up and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all past Presidents, CEOs, Committee of Management and people that have been involved with vegetablesWA over this period. We have come a long way in 70 years and continue building a skilled team to work together on any issues that our fee-for-service paying growers will face. People come to mind that have had a great influence in vegetablesWA are past president and still a committee Member Maureen Dobra, and past CEO Jim Turley.

Photo | simplydesign

33THIS summer has been mild and the Gascoyne River has had two good river flows.

A

BY DAN KUZMICICH PRESIDENT, VEGETABLESWA

nother season is about to begin here in the Gascoyne region preparing our ground and planting, it’s a busy time of the year.

This summer has been mild and the Gascoyne River has had two good river flows (3.5m and 3m) which is great news for the region on two fronts; more water and more importantly good water which has bought the salt level down greatly. Salt levels in the Gascoyne River have been high since the flood in December 2010 which limited use of our basin A bore’s greatly.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Once our bore water salt level reaches 1000 parts per million (ppm) it’s shut down time that has been the case for a majority of the growers in Carnarvon. What is even worse is that if you don’t use your Basin A bore water you lose it, that hurts, not to mention it devalues your farm and limits your growing potential for the future.

Growers are working with Department of Water (DoW) to rectify this issue.

Being a grower always has its challenges and speaking to growers north and south of WA I am hearing the same issues keep popping up — the cost of labour, market prices and over planting (not growing to the market). Some growers are really thinking and implementing changes to improve their efficiencies on farm which will make them more viable for the future without compromising quality. My brother and I have been thinking along the same lines just to stay ahead of the game.

I have had the privilege to work with both of these people, who have installed stability and passion within vegetablesWA and created a great platform for vegetablesWA to grow.

A reminder the new horticulture code of conduct officially kicks in on the 1st of April 2018 so as growers this is your opportunity to put forward your requirements to your Market Agent and also be very aware and understand what you are signing up for. If you have any issues in regards to the new code of conduct contact vegetablesWA to see how we can assist you.

Hort Connections is coming up in June which will be held in Brisbane this year. I urge all growers to attend as you will gain valuable information at this conference and get to catch up with growers all around Australia, hope to see you there.

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

YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

Potato Growers

President’s Report

BY VAUGHAN CARTER PRESIDENT, POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION

B

link and time will disappear! Here we are well into 2018 season and things are just ticking along.

The Potato Growers Association (PGA) has recently secured grant assistance funding which has seen growers apply to explore opportunities to expand into new markets. This is a fantastic result and the committee of management should be proud of the work they have done to achieve this result.

On the domestic market front I took a bit of time to ring and speak to three local merchants. I must thank them for being upfront and honest with their opinions as to where things are at. It’s plainly obvious that things are fairly tight and prices are reflecting at the farm gate.

Waste percentages are a fair reflection as to where sales/prices are at and all merchants waste figures were 15–20%.

The quality out of Manjimup and Pemberton has been good to fair was the general consensus from Merchants is that most varieties are in good supply.

Creams were proving to be the variety that was outperforming others for one merchant but is finding colours, especially reds tough.

On the export front the three merchants which spoke to me were supplying various markets overseas. The conclusion is that it is very competitive but all were working hard to increase their volumes of sales, growers in the current climate will only benefit from export. It is an additional way to reduce domestic quantities that are currently flooding the marketplace.

33THE PGA continues to investigate overseas markets with the hope that it can lead to some positive results.

Transition to management for Tomato potato psyllid (TPP) is still progressing and we can only watch this space as protocols are discussed and hopefully implemented in due course ... a long and arduous task it would seem. The time line looks to be heading towards the middle of the year.

Thanks again to our local merchants for allowing time to speak and I hope it is of some value to growers to see where things are at.

The PGA continues to investigate overseas markets with The PGA Committee of the hope that it can lead would like to send to some positive results.

DOMESTIC EXPORT INTO Management their condolences to Tony Ryan It’s great to see some THE EASTERN SEABOARD and families on the sad loss of local growers developing IS OF THE HIGHEST Jan. Our thoughts are with you their own markets and it all during this sad time.

PRIORITY! would be fantastic to see MORE INFORMATION them succeed and prosper.

It was unanimously agreed from the merchants that domestic export into the eastern seaboard is of the highest priority, “without this market it will see depressed pricing continue” was one merchants quote. This was clearly reiterated by all.

To contact Vaughan call 0417 092 505 or email marybrook438@gmail.com

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

Potato Growers

EO’s Report

T

SIMON MOLTONI EXECUTIVE OFFICER, POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION

omato potato psyllid (TPP) is still the biggest issue facing the potato industry in Western Australia. Growers are still suffering the effects of loss of market access to the East coast, especially seed growers.

As such, we are anxiously awaiting the outcomes from the Transition to Management (T2M) plan. At this stage the surveillance component of the T2M has collected nearly 27,000 psyllids and tested approximately 6500 of those for Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CLso) as per the plans requirements. So far there have been no positive tests. These tests have been verified by laboratories in Victoria. The Autumn surveillance will be conducted throughout March with testing completed in early April. If no CLso positives are returned, then we should have a solid position from which to lobby for market access to the Eastern States.

The management component is well under way with Gavin Foord attending our December Committee of Management meeting and informing us of headway he has made with the Enterprise Management Plans (EMP). A draft will be made available for industry comment before finalisation of the EMP in June.

The R&D component consists of greenhouse and laboratory trials of various chemicals and biological controls. This is a critical area for future management of this pest and we look forward to the results of this work.

Market access for potatoes is predominantly dependant on two things.

Either CLso is NOT discovered in WA, or TPP IS discovered on the East Coast.

In the meantime, we need to prepare ourselves for either outcome so that no time is lost once the situation changes.

Recently the PGA notified its members that Hort Innovation have recommended that the

ORGANIC 8

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Biosecurity Levy be changed from $0.00/t to $0.10/t. this is to raise funds to pay for the response to the TPP incursion. Growers are reminded that the Federal Government will be paying for 80% and the remaining 20% will be split between vegetable and potato levy payers. Levy payers have the right to object to this proposed levy. The objection period will close 14th March.

The Egypt seed potato project continues after a successful visit to Cairo. A greater understanding of local conditions, issues, and opportunities has been developed which is invaluable to developing a long term, sustainable market for WA growers.

Good luck to everyone that has submitted a project proposal to the Industry Recovery Fund. We look forward to the positive impacts that the successful projects will have for our industry.

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

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WA POTATOES MARKETING UPDATE

Social and digital promotion moves to the fore as

s e o t Toda n g i a p cam continues...

Moroccan spiced BBQ potatoes

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

WA POTATOES MARKETING UPDATE

Summer influencers

F

ollowing on from the extensive launch of the Todatoes campaign across TV, social, digital and outdoor advertising channels, the promotion has now moved onto the next phase with a greater focus on digital marketing. Breadbox Marketing and PR are continuing to engage consumers through an offering of contemporary potato recipes, health information and tips for cooking.

The WA Potatoes Instagram and Facebook pages have a combined following of around 20,800 people with over 60% located in Perth. Social media reaches an estimated 18,500 people each week and is engaged with on average 7000 times per week.

Moving forward, a new project to create regular, fresh and informative blog posts is underway. These posts will be short and sharp and highly shareable to drive traffic to social media and the website for recipe’s and more WA Potato content.

In parallel the Seed for Schools program is moving ahead with close to 350 registered WA schools ready to receive their seed in the next couple of months.

Given the significant inf luence of Mummy bloggers in Pe rth, Breadbox developed a fun projec t in the lead up to Christmas to tap into this targeted audience.

Three bloggers were sen t a WA Potatoes pack which inc luded instructions to make Ch ristmas wrapping paper with po tato stamps with their children and share the experience on their cha nnels.

For this project the blo ggers that were engaged included: 1.

Amy Zempilas — Absol utely Amy 2. Rayne Embley — Ra yne

3. Caprice — PerthKid z

Summer recipes Potatoes are not always the first choice for consumers in summer, with lighter meals and BBQ’s the popular option.

As such, WA Potatoes has worked with Breadbox to develop some new recipe content to demonstrate that potatoes can be part of light and fresh meals (and are very easy to include on the BBQ menu).

To maximise the use of the content the recipes were styled to be used over the Christmas period and also through the summer. All the content can be found on the website:

1. Char grilled potato, cherry tomato & asparagus salad 2. Salad board of lemon potatoes, prawns & smoked salmon 3. Moroccan spiced BBQ potatoes The most popular recipe has so far been the Moroccan Spiced Potatoes which has been viewed 28,642 times on social media resulting in 671 visits directly to the recipe on the website.

The images that were sha red reached over 100,000 followers and had over 800 engagements.

The bloggers will be wo rking with Breadbox again before the end of summer to share more potato recipe content with their loyal followers.

Seed for Schools

The popular Seed for Schools Program was relaunched last year to target parents of school children and encourage them to get their schools to join. The state-wide initiative, run by WA Potatoes, encourages kids to get their hands dirty and get back into the garden — highlighting the importance of healthy food, and supporting local farms.

The program provides schools with seed potatoes, educational resources for teachers to use in classrooms, as well as a monthly e-newsletter with gardening tips and stories of progress from participating schools.

Registrations closed on the 16th February and work is now continuing to complete the information packs and coordinate the delivery of the seed.

MORE INFORMATION For more information about any of the WA Potatoes activities head to www.todatoes.com.au or contact the office on (08) 9481 0834.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

vegetablesWA Leafy Variety Trial Thursday May 3, 2018 from 10am-3pm Where: Loose Leaf Lettuce Company 198 Ashby Road, Gingin Host:

Maureen Dobra, Kevan Dobra

What:

Green Leaf Varieties

Head lettuce • Iceberg • Multileaf • Cos • Mini Cos • Baby Gem Cos • Coral

Baby leaf • Spinach • Rocket • Lettuce

Participating Seed Companies: Bayer, South Pacific Seeds, Seminis, Rijk Zwaan

Field day timeline 10am-3pm

1pm-2pm

2pm-3pm

Guests tour seed plots and speak to seed reps

Lunch and drinks provided

P resentation & discussion with Dr Doris Blaesing about soil health and Dr Len Tesoriero about the soil borne disease trials in baby leaf crops

RSVP: Christina Ford 702-704 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005 t: (08) 9486 7515 e: christina.ford@vegetableswa.com.au

vegetableswa.com.au

YOUR PRODUCTION

your

production Your production WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

13

YOUR PRODUCTION

Industry plans to help growers manage Tomato potato psyllid through the supply chain

I

t’s critical for Tomato potato psyllid (TPP)-affected industries to develop and implement management plans to effectively control TPP. The plans also demonstrate industry commitment to minimising the spread and impact of the TPP/ Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CLso) complex throughout the supply chain.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

ENTERPRISE MANAGEMENT PLANS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR VEGETABLES, POTATOES, NURSERY AND GARDEN AND PROCESSING TOMATOES.

YOUR PRODUCTION

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development in partnership with peak industry bodies, are working together to develop industry-specific Enterprise management plans to help growers manage the TPP complex according to best practice.

What is an Enterprise management plan?

An Enterprise management plan brings together the best-available knowledge into one easily-accessible resource for growers, and includes five key components:

NDERSTANDING PEST AND U PATHOGEN BIOLOGY AND THEIR IDENTIFICATION IDENTIFYING RISK PATHWAYS

PPLYING CONTROL AND A MANAGEMENT OPTIONS BIOSECURITY AWARENESS AND IMPLEMENTATION POST-FARM GATE MANAGEMENT

The plans utilise existing good practice, biosecurity, and quality assurance and certification documents to build on current systems and avoid duplication.

Why are these plans needed?

Enterprise management plans are essential in supporting ongoing efforts to renew and maintain market access, as well as underpin certification and assurance schemes. The plans will also help growers and industry manage TPP both pre and post farm-gate.

Much of the information is available from local, interstate or international sources so its bringing this information together in a user-friendly format relevant to each industry.

Any gaps in knowledge are being flagged for further research.

What industries will have these plans?

• Vegetables • Potatoes • Nursery and garden • Processing tomatoes AUSVEG, vegetablesWA, Potato Growers Association of WA, Australian Processing Tomatoes Research Council and the Nursery and Garden Industry Association are working with the department to develop industry-specific plans for their members.

33ABOVE: Symptoms of Tomato potato psyllid infestation include yellowing of leaf margins and upward curling of the leaves.

When will the plans be available?

Growers will able to access their industry plan online and at industry information sessions during May 2018.

MORE INFORMATION For more information contact Gavin Foord, Foord Systems on 0435 018 189 or email gfoord@westnet.com.au

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15

YOUR PRODUCTION

Calibrating your

spray unit

BY JOEL DINSDALE QUALITY ASSURANCE COORDINATOR, VEGETABLESWA

C

alibration of each of the spray units is a task that needs to be completed at least annually to meet the requirements of the GFSI (Global Food Safety Initiative) approved food safety/quality assurance programs including Freshcare Food Safety & Quality Edition 4 (FSQ4).

Operating a spray unit that is incorrectly calibrated could have severe food safety and economic consequences.

Calibration is defined as the comparison of measurement values delivered by a device under test with those of a calibration standard of known accuracy.

Application of this definition in terms of spray units (herbicide units and/or fungicide units) requires measurement of pressure, output (volume) and speed to ensure that the desired standards are being achieved in practice.

16

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Advances in technology have seen the introduction of wheel magnets and flow meters that control output accurately.

Despite these advances in technology, it is still critical to measure each variable to ensure that it is meeting the standard with appropriate accuracy.

This means that growers should still measure the flow rate at a known pressure of each nozzle as well as the speed and distance that the tractor is travelling when under typical spray conditions.

33GROWERS should measure the flow rate at a known pressure of each nozzle using the jug test.

Speed and distance Measure and mark out a distance of 100 metres (m). Half fill the spray unit and record the time it takes in seconds (s) to travel from point A to point B. Use the following formula to determine the ‘actual’ speed of the tractor — this actual speed should be compared to the speed being displayed on the dashboard of the tractor. If the two speed values are the same, then the tractor is in calibration in terms of speed and distance.

Speed (km/h) = Distance (m) x 3.6

Time (s)

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DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE FORM FROM WWW.FRESHCARE.COM.AU

F8 Calibration record Business name: Date of calibration

Equipment calibrated

Method of calibration

Reading/results

Action taken/comments

Conducted by

33CALIBRATION record form.

Growers need to check the output of each nozzle because the combined output may

nozzle may be correct but each individual not be outputting the correct value — this could have food safety implications and

could lead to an MRL (maximum residue limit) breach.

Pressure

There are flow meters available that

quickly and accurately measure the Pressure should be checked using a

output of nozzles. These flow meters pressure gauge located near the pump allow the calibrator to quickly determine on the unit.E FOOD SA The theoretical pressure FRESHCAR FETY & QUALITY EDIT ION 4 – FORM REF1606 if the nozzles are in calibration and they should be the same as the actual pressure are a great time saving tool. However, displayed on the pressure gauge. The they come at a higher cost than a jug and accuracy of the pressure can be verified stopwatch. Both methods are effective. when capturing the output of the nozzles at a known pressure.

To calculate the application rate, you can

Output (volume) Output should be measured at each nozzle in operation. This can be achieved by recording the volume in litres (L) that are passing through the nozzle at a known pressure, over a period of time. This can easily be completed by recording the output volume over a minute using a jug and a stopwatch (called the ‘jug test’).

Total output (L/min) can then be calculated by adding the volume recorded from each nozzle (i.e. the sum of the output).

For the nozzle to be in calibration, the actual output should be the same as the theoretical output (given the pressure is the same). The theoretical output in litres per minute (L/min) can be determined by looking at a nozzle chart. Each brand has a slightly different chart, so you will need to contact your machinery dealer for the chart appropriate to your unit and nozzles.

use the following calculation to determine if your spray unit is meeting your theoretical rate: Rate (L/ha) = Tank capacity (L) x total output of all nozzles (L/min) Row spacing (m) x speed (km/h) If your calculated rate is the same as your theoretical rate, then your unit is in calibration.

Actions following a calibration event The first and most important task to complete following a calibration event is to record the data captured to meet your QA system requirements. For those growers with Freshcare FSQ4, this can be captured on the F8 Calibration Record. You will need to capture calibration data for each spray unit in use, at least annually or when repairs have been made to the unit(s).

desired calibration standards Where the

are NOT met, the grower will need to conduct repairs. This could be as simple

as replacing a nozzle (if the nozzle is putting out too much volume), or unblocking a filter (if the nozzle is not outputting enough volume).

After you have made changes,

the calibration event should be completed again and recorded following the completion of the F8 Calibrat ion record follow up event.

Verification of the calibration event(s) is achieved by completing an annual MRL test on your produce. This is a mandatory requirement for all of the GFSI QA systems including Freshcare FSQ4.

If you are applying chemicals as per the label rates, and your unit(s) are in correct calibration, you should not expect to see an adverse detection.

Remember, if you make any repairs or changes to your spray unit setup (i.e. repair a broken part or open up extra nozzles), then you will need to conduct another calibration event to demonstrate that your unit is functioning correctly.

MORE INFORMATION For further information or assistance with calibrating a machine, please contact Joel Dinsdale on 0417 857 675 or email joel.dinsdale@vegetableswa.com.au

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Quick response to

Queensland fruit fly detection

T

he Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is responding to the detection of an adult female Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) in a department surveillance trap.

33DPIRD officers are regularly checking surveillance traps close to the detection point — from left — Kate Detchon, Paul Davies and Stephen Winter.

DPIRD Qfly Incident Controller Bill Trend said the Qfly was found in a residential area just east of the Fremantle CBD. As of 23 February 2018 there have been no further detections, and most properties in the area surrounding the detection have been visited to locate and bait host trees, and to check traps.

“Community support is critical to protecting not only Western Australia’s horticultural industries, but also backyard fruit and vegetable gardens, and to date we have been grateful for the public response.

Bill said the Qfly had been found in one of the 1900 permanent traps that make up DPIRD’s early warning fruit fly trapping system.

“This early warning enabled the department to respond quickly and commence an eradication program, to minimise the chances of further spread should additional flies be present in the area,” Bill said.

“Our program has included deploying additional traps, and establishing a Quarantine Area within a 1.5km radius from the detection, which covers all of Fremantle, and parts of East and North Fremantle, and White Gum Valley.

18

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

“Western Australia’s Area Freedom from Qfly, which underpins market access for a range of produce, remains in place.”

Bill acknowledged the overwhelming support and participation of local residents and businesses in the eradication program.

“There has been extensive communication to residents in these areas to not move home-grown fruit and vegetables to areas outside of the Quarantine Area, and of the approved methods through which ripening and fallen fruit should be regularly disposed of.”

Bill said there had been a suspension of Qfly Area Freedom over an area within a 15km radius of the detection (Suspension Area).

“This means that host fruit cannot be exported from within this area without treatment or other approved protocol, although there are currently no commercial producers of host material in this area,” he said.

“This has included adhering to restrictions, and giving DPIRD staff access to private properties within a 200m radius of the Qfly detection, to carry out baiting and surveillance activities. If is no-one home when visiting, staff have been leaving a contact card, so that residents can call the department and arrange a follow-up visit.”

Bill said it was important to note there had been no recent detections of Qfly in any commercial fruit or vegetable production areas in WA. Qfly is occasionally detected in Western Australia, however any outbreaks are rapidly eradicated.

“For producers and industry seeking more information, an industry-related update was recently provided to relevant fruit and vegetable industry bodies, to distribute to their members.”

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Quarantine Area restrictions

Queensland fruit fly identification

A Quarantine Area Notice (QAN) was published in the West Australian on Saturday, 3 February 2018, the Fremantle/ Cockburn Gazette on Tuesday, 6 February 2018, and the Fremantle/Cockburn Herald on Saturday, 10 February 2018. It applies to all of Fremantle, and parts of East Fremantle, North Fremantle and White Gum Valley.

The Quarantine Area Notice (QAN) instructs the following:

Reddish-brown thorax with yellow patches

Very short antennae

• Non-commercial and home-grown fruit must not be taken out of the Quarantine Area unless it has been cooked or processed, or approved by the DPIRD Director General.

• Ensure any ripening fruit or vegetables on host plants, or any fruit that has fallen to the ground is removed and disposed of every three days.

Clear wings

Red eyes

• The fruit can be disposed of by eating, cooking (boil or microwave), freezing or securing in a sealed heavy duty black plastic bag which is placed in direct sunlight for a period of three days. This should kill any flies or larvae before disposing of in regular bins.

• Do not place untreated fruit or vegetables into compost.

• Do not bury the fallen fruit as Qfly adults can emerge from the soil.

• Do not give your fruit and vegetables away.

Under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Regulations 2013, failure to comply with movement restrictions can result in fines. We are appealing to residents to do the right thing in supporting WA’s horticultural industries.

The QAN will remain in place until 18 April 2018. It may be extended if any further flies are detected. Residents in the Quarantine Area will be notified when the response program concludes.

About Qfly Qfly is a destructive fruit pest, and considered a more serious pest than the endemic Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly) for a number of reasons including: • Qfly attacks a wider range of commercial and native trees, vine fruits, fruit and solanaceous fruiting vegetables such as eggplant, tomato, capsicum and chili.

6–8mm long Solid dark brown abdomen

Adult Qfly are: • Approximately 6–8 mm long.

• Have three body segments, wings and six legs.

• The head has two red eyes with two very short antennae (only visible under close inspection).

• The thorax (middle segment) is reddish-brown with yellow patches on the sides and back.

• The abdomen (end segment) is a solid dark brown, and the legs are a lighter shade of brown.

• The wings are clear.

• Qfly are usually seen on the undersides of leaves or on maturing fruit.

Don't confuse Qfly for Medfly, which is smaller (approximately 3–5mm long). Qfly have clear wings. Medfly wings are transparent and mottled, with distinct pale brown bands extending to the wing tips.

• Qfly can attack fruits and some fruiting vegetables at an earlier maturity stage.

• More insecticide may need to be applied to fruits and vegetables.

Visit agric.wa.gov.au/qfly and agric. wa.gov.au/medfly for more information.

Reporting options Residents are asked to check their fruit for any unusual fruit fly activity, such as larvae, in unexpected fruit and vegetables.

33MEDFLY

MORE INFORMATION If you suspect you have seen Queensland fruit fly, please take photos where ever possible and: • Make an online report or use the MyPestGuide reporter app: mypestguide.agric.wa.gov.au • Phone: (08) 9368 3080 • Email: padis@dpird.wa.gov.au

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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Research indicates

MIRID BUGS WERE MOST EFFECTIVE IN CONTROLLING TPP IN GLASSHOUSE TRIALS.

promising TPP control for growers “A ladybird species (Harmonia octomaculata) performed well in the laboratory whilst the mirid bug was most effective in controlling TPP in glasshouse trials,” Dr Broughton said.

“These results indicate more research is required to determine the most suitable biological control agents for TPP in different crops and growing conditions.”

At the completion of the research and development program in May 2018, research results from the complete insecticide and biological control trials will be published online and in industry publications. Industry information sessions will also be held.

33LACEWING larva feed on tomato potato psyllid nymphs.

S

igns are positive for future control options for the horticultural insect pest tomato potato psyllid (Bactericera cockerelli) as a result of research by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD).

“The glasshouse trials aim to determine the effectiveness of up to 14 insecticides and six biological control agents,” Dr Broughton said.

In September 2017, the department commenced a nine month period of research to improve the understanding about tomato potato psyllid (TPP) control options and improve the capacity of growers to manage the pest.

“This could be due in part to the TPP biotype found in Western Australia being the same as that in New Zealand.

Acting Chief Plant Biosecurity Officer Sonya Broughton said research activities undertaken to date included laboratory and glasshouse trials on the performance of insecticides and biological control agents on TPP.

“Preliminary results from the glasshouse trials indicate that pymetrozine is not effective in controlling TPP while abamectin is very effective, which is in keeping with research results from New Zealand, where TPP has established,” she said.

“Cyantraniliprole, flocinamid and spirotetramat treatments were also effective.

“At the conclusion of the insecticide trials, we will determine whether the active ingredients for TPP control are registered for use in the crops they’re required for and if not, how we can address this.”

The six species of biological control agents being used in the integrated pest management aspect of the trial are all generalist predators.

20

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

33A ladybird feeds on tomato potato psyllid nymph.

Research and development led by the department is part of a nationally-agreed TPP transition to management plan which aims to develop the science, biosecurity and business systems to support growers and industry to manage TPP. MORE INFORMATION The plan is funded by Australian and state governments, and industry.

More information about the signs and symptoms of TPP, and control options, is available on the department website: www.agric.wa.gov.au/tomato-potato-psyllid-tpp.

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Can calcium cyanamide (CaCN2) fertiliser affect Pythium spp

s? and other soilborne diseases in carrot

Calcium cyanamide (CaCN2) fertiliser was tested for efficacy against Pythium sulcatum and P. violae in a growerled demonstration trial in a commercial carrot crop in Western Australia.

The wax coated fertiliser was applied according to manufacturer’s instructions at 300kg/ha and 500kg/ha fertiliser to one carrot bed each. An untreated bed adjacent to each treated bed was used as a control. All standard commercial crop management inputs were applied to treated and control beds. This included nitrogen fertilisers.

The pack out figures showed that total fresh yields in the CaCN2 treated beds were higher than in untreated beds by 15.4% for the 300kg/ha and 18.7% for the 500kg/ha treatment. The greatest

difference was in the weight of processing carrots. One reason for the higher weight of processing carrots may have been the impact of additional nitrogen from the CaCN2 fertiliser that became available early in the season. While it reduced root length it may have had an impact on the timing of bulking and thus final root weight at harvest.

DNA testing results from root and soil samples suggested that cavity spot symptoms seen on carrots after harvest maybe mainly caused by Pythium sulcatum.

Both DNA tests implied that CaCN2 fertiliser may have reduced the Pythium sulcatum soil inoculum, the main pathogen causing cavity spot in carrots in Australia.

Take away messages: In research trials with CaCN2 fertiliser, soil nitrogen (N) dynamics and plant biomass production (root and shoot) should be included in assessments. If CaCN2 fertiliser is used

commercially the N mineralisation from the product must be considered in the crop’s N budget and application schedule.

Replicated trials, including proven DNA testing for Pythium sulcatum and P. violae should be conducted to confirm the efficacy of CaCN2 fertiliser on these diseases. If efficacy is confirmed, commercial use options for carrot crops under different production conditions should be investigated.

MORE INFORMATION You can learn more about the demonstration site here, or visit the Facebook page for live updates.

lth or ICP To find out more about the Soil Wea u, or join om.a lth.c wea .soil projects visit www e. You can onlin tice Prac of ity mun Com ICP the tingCrops or also follow us on Twitter @Protec and updates. s new t lates the for alth ilWe @So

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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vegenotes

VG14062:

Process improvements for preserving peak freshness in broccoli (Stage 2)

33TRADITIONALLY, broccoli has been packed in Styrofoam boxes with ice, however, this system has many disadvantages.

About the project Facilitators: Project VG14062 was completed by Dr Jenny Ekman from Applied Horticultural Research.

B

roccoli has a great image as a healthy, nutritious and flavoursome vegetable.

Botanically it is an inflorescence, a rapidly developing head of tiny flower buds with a high respiration rate and few storage reserves. This makes it difficult to transport and store, with yellowing, rots and damage reducing quality — and sales — at retail.

Traditionally, broccoli has been packed in Styrofoam boxes with ice. This keeps broccoli cool and hydrated through the transport chain and looks good when the box is opened. However, this system has many disadvantages. The power and potable water needed to make ice, extra transport costs and the expense of packaging are negatives for packers.

Styrofoam is non-biodegradable as well as difficult to recycle and, if the ice melts, broccoli ends up floating in a rotinducing soup.

Keeping broccoli green and fresh without ice would therefore seem to have advantages for growers, packers and consumers alike.

Optimising cooling and packing processes is vital to retain broccoli freshness.

Broccoli absorbs 2–5% weight during hydrocooling or hydro-vacuum cooling, which suggests that products added to the water — such as sanitisers, carbohydrates or other products — are also absorbed.

The final stage of project VG14062 Process improvements for preserving peak freshness of broccoli (Stage 2), undertaken by Applied Horticultural Research, tested the effects of adding sanitiser, a carbohydrate source, or an artificial plant cytokinin (a class of plant hormones) to water during cooling.

It also tested the effects of the fumigant ‘SmartFresh’ on broccoli storage and shelf life.

Major findings None of the sanitisers tested reduced postharvest development of rots in broccoli that had been infected in the field.

Adding sanitisers to hydrocooling water also had no effect on rots, with infection rates remaining low even when pathogens were added to the water.

While broccoli treated with chlorine products was similar to untreated heads, some of the sanitisers tested actually

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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AgroFresh is now gathering the data required to register the new InBox formulation of 1-MCP for commercial use on broccoli in Australia.

At the same time, other delivery mechanisms are still being developed.

While these remain confidential, it is believed these could provide growers and packers with an even easier way to apply SmartFresh during packing of broccoli.

The bottom line Keeping broccoli green and fresh without ice appears to have many advantages for growers, packers and consumers alike.

EXCITING RESULTS WERE GAINED USING ‘SMARTFRESH’

REDUCES RIPENING, YELLOWING AND OTHER AGEING PROCESSES. had negative effects on quality. The results suggest that adding sanitisers to hydrocooling water cannot control postharvest rots. However, they may be used to ensure food safety.

Adding carbohydrates such as sucrose and dextrose to the cooling water also failed to improve quality and, in some cases, floret rots increased.

Better results were gained using the artificial plant cytokinin 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). Adding 50ppm BAP to hydrocooling water increased the time broccoli remained green at seven degrees Celsius from less than two weeks to three weeks. Treating broccoli immediately after harvest, rather than after a delay of several days, returned the best results. Although BAP resembles natural plant cytokinin B, it is a manufactured product. Unfortunately BAP is not currently registered for postharvest application to broccoli.

Perhaps the most exciting results were gained using a new formulation of 1-methylcyclopropene (a synthetic plant growth regulator), marketed as ‘SmartFresh’. SmartFresh is already routinely applied to fruit crops such as apples, pears and plums, and it is also

registered for use on broccoli. It blocks the product from producing or responding to ethylene, and this reduces ripening, yellowing and other ageing processes.

SmartFresh is normally applied by releasing the fumigant inside a sealed room. A few hours of exposure to as little as 1ppm (0.0001%) is all that is required, with residues undetectable in the treated product.

Unlike apples, large quantities of broccoli are rarely stored, which makes batch application of SmartFresh problematic.

However, a new formulation of 1-MCP called ‘In-Box’ allows sachets of the fumigant to be added directly to packed cartons. When combined with the matched RipeLock liner, results can be impressive.

Conclusion Broccoli treated with SmartFresh was repeatedly found to be as good as or better than broccoli packed in Styrofoam with ice, even if the cool chain was not maintained.

The effects are retained after the broccoli is placed on retail display, as it remains protected from ethylene produced by ripening produce on the shelf.

The final stage of project VG14062 tested the effects of adding sanitiser, a carbohydrate source, or an artificial plant cytokinin to water to optimise cooling and packing processes of broccoli.

It was found that none of the sanitisers tested reduced postharvest development of rots in broccoli that had been infected in the field, and adding sanitisers to hydrocooling water also had no effect.

However, adding the artificial plant cytokinin 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) to hydrocooling water increased the time broccoli remained green at seven degrees Celsius from less than two weeks to three weeks.

The most promising results were delivered by using a synthetic plant growth regulator marketed as ‘SmartFresh’. Broccoli treated with SmartFresh was repeatedly found to be as good as or better than broccoli packed in Styrofoam with ice, and there is now data being collected to register the new InBox formulation of 1-MCP for commercial use on broccoli in Australia.

MORE INFORMATION For more details about the research, please contact Dr Jenny Ekman on 0407 384 285 or at jenny.ekman@ahr.com.au.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This project is a strategic levy investment under the Hort Innovation Vegetable Fund.

VG14062 has been funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government.

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New insights into how potato responds to high temperatures

BY STEVE MILROY RESEARCH MANAGER, POTATO RESEARCH WA, MURDOCH UNIVERSITY

T

he global trend of increasing temperatures is a serious challenge for potato producers in many countries, including Australia.

While the general problem is widely recognised there is very little information about how it relates to potato crops in Western Australia.

Method

Murdoch research student, Charles Obiero, has spent the last three years exploring this problem.

Charles’ work differs from most other research into the effect of high temperatures on potato because he took the realistic view that the plant is not exposed to high temperatures every day during the growth cycle; rather it experiences episodes of high temperature.

This has led to a number of important new findings.

22ºC

To begin his research, Charles analysed the climatic records for ten potato production areas in WA to develop a picture of the high temperature conditions that a potato crop might experience. He obtained thirty years of daily temperature data for the ten locations and for each location identified a two month window during which tuber filling is likely to occur.

He then analysed how many ‘hot’ days occurred during this period and how many ‘hot’ days occurred in a row.

33THE impact of nine days of high temperatures on the size and number of tubers a month later. Plants at 22°C were the control.

Tuber growth continued to be impaired even when plants were returned to normal temperatures (22°C).

26ºC

30ºC

Funded by:

POTATO RESEARCH WESTERN AUSTRALIA

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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60

60

Manjimup

40 30 20 10 0 1985

Jindong

50 Number of hot days

Number of hot days

50

40 30 20 10

>25ºC

1990

1995

2000

2005

>30ºC

2010

2015

0 1985

>25ºC

1990

1995

2000

2005

>30ºC

2010

2015

FIGURE 1 The number of hot days during the tuber filling period has been increasing in all potato production area of WA.

For a potato, ‘hot’ is typically considered anything above 25°C but in Western Australia, that is rather usual. So Charles considered the number of days over 25°C and over 30°C. This is a novel analysis and brings the regional trend in temperatures down to the problem at a crop level.

Results The results showed that all locations were experiencing some high temperature days during the typical tuber bulking period.

Albany had the fewest days above 25°C and experienced very few days over 30°C in the designated window. Jindong and Manjimup had the highest number of days over 30°C. Jindong also had the strongest increasing trend in the number of days above 30°C (see Figure 1). Over the thirty years from 1985, the number of days in the January-February window that reach 30°C increased from around 10 to 25 per year.

Findings A key finding from this research is that the negative impact of high temperature on growth continued well after the plants had been returned to 22°C. Tuber growth continued to be slower in plants that had experienced a high temperature than in those that had not. Four weeks after the end of the high temperature episode, plants that experienced the high temperatures had 30% less tuber weight per plant. Surprisingly, a similar effect on tuber growth was found whether the high temperature episode occurred shortly before tuber initiation or during early tuber development.

Research into the effect of temperature on tuber growth often emphasises the importance of starch synthase. This enzyme plays a role in converting sugars to starch and so is critical for tuber growth.

TUBER GROWTH CONTINUED TO To quantify the frequency and Starch synthase is less duration of high temperature BE SLOWER IN PLANTS THAT active at temperatures over spells, Charles analysed the 25°C, so is an important HAD EXPERIENCED A HIGH temperature records for the part of the response of TEMPERATURE THAN IN THOSE ten years 2005-2014; again potato to high temperature.

THAT HAD NOT. considering the two month However, Charles’ findings window of tuber filling in each that the impact on tuber growth location. Runs of three days over continues after the end of the high 25°C during tuber filling were common temperature period and that tuber growth in all areas. Five consecutive days above can be impaired if the stress is applied 30°C occurred at least once a year in most before initiation, indicate that other locations except Albany, the metropolitan mechanisms are playing an important area and the coastal area south of Perth. role in reducing tuber growth. In both of A run of 7 consecutive days over 30°C these scenarios tuber growth was slowed occurred only once every few years and even though expansion was occurring at was not recorded in Albany or Pinjarra.

22°C, when starch synthase activity should be unimpaired.

Charles used his analysis of the high temperatures in WA potato production Part of the picture may be a change in areas to choose his experimental canopy structure. While high temperatures treatments. In the glasshouse he grew are typically considered to promote shoot Royal Blue at 22°C and then applied a growth at the expense of tuber growth, period of high temperature at either 26 or Charles’ measurements showed that this 30°C before returning the plants to 22°C is an over simplification. In fact, during to grow on for four weeks. the high temperature episode, leaf growth

was reduced; it was only afterwards that compensatory growth occurred.

Importantly, Charles showed that the main shoot on the plant stopped growing during high temperature and that compensatory growth appeared to be occurring by branching. This runs contrary to the established idea that the greater canopy growth caused by high temperatures is induced by gibberellins. Gibberellins cause shoots to grow longer.

The importance of the new level of understanding that Charles’ research has provided is that it can help us to explore ways to manage a crop when it undergoes an episode of high temperature.

As Charles works to write up his thesis we are now looking to the next project which will look at practical management options and how to take these findings into the field.

We wish Charles every success in his future career.

MORE INFORMATION Charles Obiero is completing his PhD at Murdoch University as part of Potato Research WA. He holds an Australian government scholarship through Murdoch University. His supervisors are Prof Richard Bell and Dr Steve Milroy.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

25

• The Schreurs trialed predatory mite, persimilis, to control two-spotted mite in a fish tank, before being comfortable to test the approach on a leek crop in field

YOUR PRODUCTION

• Having not used insecticides on their leek crop for the past 15 years, the Schreurs can see the results in the quality of their produce and reputation with buyers

hit them with and were building in numbers.”

Not liking the idea of continuous use of dangerous chemicals for health reasons, and having no success in controlling pests, the Schreurs needed an alternative.

Fellow grower Tom Schreurs (of J. & J.M. Schreurs & Sons – and no relation!) advised Darren to talk with Dr Paul Horne of IPM Technologies.

Soil Wealth and ICP projects (2014–17) Phase 1 • The Schreurs have adopted companion plantings, including native trees and shrubs, to provide better habitat for beneficial insects • Better customer awareness around IPM and the benefit of fresh produce sold with no chemical residues is needed

Peter Schreurs and Sons grow a range of vegetable crops on their 180 hectare farm in Devon Meadows near Cranbourne in Victoria. Leeks are the main crop in the business, but they also produce cos lettuce, endive, kohl-rabi, wombok and radicchio.

Handy hints and where to find useful information from the project

“Paul came in 2000 to have a look at the problem we were having with the two-spotted mite and immediately advised us to stop spraying insecticides. This was unprecedented advice, as for decades we had relied on spraying chemicals to control pests – and with IPM we would not be spraying at all.

Paul explained to us how a predator mite, called persimilis, fed on two-spotted mite. By allowing the persimilis to live in the crop, they would control the twospotted mite.

On the farm, Darren Schreurs is responsible for controlling pest and disease in the crops. Darren first encountered Integrated Pest Management (IPM) when he was trying to deal with mites and thrips in their leek crop.

Darren recalls, “before we moved to using IPM, we had a set insecticide spray program for control of insect pests.

We used broad-spectrum insecticides, which killed all insects, so in theory we should have had clean crops with no insects.”

T

his article summarises useful information developed by the Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection (ICP) projects from 2014–17, and where to find it.

Case studies

Two Spotted Mite, Tetranychus urticae (L) can be successfully managed with the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis (R) Photo Credit: Planet Natural, 2016

The 12 case studies provide growers and industry professionals practical insights on cover crops, IPM and compost management. Each of the case studies listed are from a Soil Wealth and ICP demonstration sites and contain first-hand experience from growers.

This project has been funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the vegetable levy and funds from the Australian Government.

These resources are relevant to all major vegetable growing regions in Australia. The resources developed includes fact sheets (51), case studies (12), videos and apps (36), e-newsletters (32 editions), as well as demonstration site information. The main topics covered by these resources include crop management, pest and disease management, and soil, nutrition and compost. All the resources in this guide can be found on the project website at www.soilwealth.com.au.

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s, adapted It occu was it is fact sheet rm fruit is d fru ally in this cut op , comp Information containe ptoms rs most Industry le sym . The ex Vegetab letelyfor the en ment normal. ternalen, are only se The Manage from the Weed appeara Paul Kristians disease 9) led by Dr en nce of Study (VG1307 leads – Scoping the ma the England t, and . to downgra of Newrke Universitythe des an affec supp

ted ly chain d , to co fruit often pro rejections of The dis nsumers fru gress ea right thr it on . or youn se normally ough g starts fruit de fruit. These when 2 fun ve latent Document ICP/019/151 infectio gi infec develop lops. Once t the flo the ns s lie do wers fruit outside rapidly, lea ving no starts to rip rmant as the of the en, fruit. sign of the dis the disease Intern al rot ea se on in caps organ the icums isms, ca wh n be ca has be ich inf ec en used by in Austr very little res t the fruit in differen five differen alia, alt earch t been co t ways. on ho nducted ugh a numb the control There of this er intern disease Hortus ationally of detailed studie Techn over the ical Se capsicu last 30 s have rvi m fruit ces un years. the Bu co ndaberg llected fro dertook a stu m intern al funga region in Ju 6 different dy of 18 Figure gro ly 2015 l predo 1. Intern minant rots in 78% . The stu wers in (Photo of cause courtesy al rot in caps Altern aria alt was lat the fruit, an dy found icums Hortus ernata d conc ent inf Techn . ection luded ical Se The pu by the the rvices) rpose The dis fungu . of this most ea s, up to seed tre se can be date inf factsheet is tra preventi atmen to bring ormati includ ts appli nsmitted by on of on on ing intern seed. ed by the ca together the al rot Howe effectiv surface ste reputa use(s), in caps ver, the What ca ble se riliz e control icums ed this dis at controlling ation and uses int . and hot wa companies ea all se er the . , nal rot ter The dis organ ease is isms kn treatments in caps The do are patho caused own to icum? cumente gen cause d caus disease establishing by a fungal 1. es or Altern of intern aria (Al pulp or can be found inside the de bacterial (ra al rot ternaria rely) in caps aroun veloping in the 2. Fusa d the alternata infectio icums fruit. seeds. fruit-stalk, rium (e. are: ns occu ) The fru Pre g. it-b The dis su r Fusarium ase, bglutina ease do depends on cisely how ns) solani, and wh fruitthe org es not F. oxysp en 3. Botry move an orum, from fru ism respo tis (Bo F. nsible. trytis cin it to fru 4. Anthr it. erea) acnose (Collet 5. Bacte otrich um sp rial so p.) ft rot (Pe ctoba cterium atrosep This fact sheet ticum) was Prem funded by the up, Aus tralia.

ts Gro

The fact sheets developed covered a range of issues relating to the needs of the industry, information is provided in an easy to understand format that is accessible to growers and industry service providers.

26

Peter Schreurs and

cover crops Winter mana gement Tools for soil

Match your main soil MAIN AIM Build soil structure

management aim to

the southern Australian

soil

Peas

For legumes to fix nitrogen kgN/ha

Lupins Vetch over

rooted crops Mix of fibrous and deep e.g. ryegrass and brassica

Soil pest and disease control

Natural, 2016

(typically canola, Biofumigant brassicas B. Juncea) B. Napus; Indian mustard,

nitrate levels in the

Fast early growth crops, barley, oats

eg wheat,

Brassicas from Protect the soil surface wind and water erosion

Ryegrass, wheat, barley,

oats

soil should be below 150

the bigger the crop, 100 and 200 kgN/ha — Expect legumes to fix between the more N fixed loss to the air over winter to prevent leaching or Capture and store nitrogen deep in the soil Recycle nutrients from are above 150 kgN/ha when soil nitrate levels Use these cover crops Use high glucosinolate

varieties

Aim to incorporate 100t/ha

fresh biomass

Incorporate when flowering, rapidly

Weed control

chus urticae (L) can be succes the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimi sfully lis (R) Photo Credit: Planet

onions Use a rhizobium inoculate

Clovers

Recover and store left fertiliser

managed with

soil excellent organic mulches well and provides Foliage protects soil surface, for some crops e.g. s mycorrhizal (VAM); good matter input. Encourage

High root activity stabilises

structure,

Add cheap nitrogen

Two Spotted Mite, winter Tetrany

COMMENTS

CROP This project has favourite a clear been— Ryegrass funded by Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited using the will also build vegetable crops below All other levy and funds from the Australian Governme extent but to a lesser nt.

e into the soil

mulch finely and incorporat

Soil should be moist te weeds rates than normal to outcompe Use 30% greater sowing of the the direct competition weeds over and above Brassicas can suppress above it fast growing crops listed good crops High biomass following crop the on depending varies Management of the mulch

and disease carry over. and potential pest r your overall rotation cover crop also conside Australia.

When choosing a green cover crops for southern . an overview of winter their specific situation This table provides ion to tailor this to informat al ns and expressly addition (RMCG) make no representatio take independent Growers should seek should RM Consulting Group Pty Ltd (AHR) and Users of this material

fact sheet.

Horticultural Research of information in this Innovation), Applied completeness, or currency Australia Limited (Hort liable for, any by law) about the accuracy, Horticulture Innovation for, and will not be (to the extent permitted or otherwise) RMCG are not responsible disclaims all warranties Innovation, AHR or person’s negligence any way. from RMCG or any other on it’s accuracy in at your own risk. Hort Crop Protection or action before relying Hort Innovation, AHR, AHR or RMCG is entirely Extension of Integrated way (including from provided by Hort Innovation, building; VG13078 liability arising in any Reliance on any information cost (including legal costs) or other t – Extension and capacity means.

1502 expense, Soil condition managemen to you by any other loss, damage, claim, Document ICPSW1/10/ from projects: VG13076 or RMCG provides information AHR of non-use Innovation, or or that Hort from your use contained in this material reliance on information

funded by This project has been Australia Horticulture Innovation levy and Limited using the vegetable Government. funds from the Australian

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

on farm -

leading growers

applies the planting beds first, Sons t forms , Devo crop, Sam n up Mea then applies the compos dowss, VIC product fertiliser and any other compost is lightly raked

Plain, on the Swan Coastal Baldivis Farms is located reader. The at Baldivis using a Nufab multi-sp beds are of Perth. The soil type about 50 km south harrows and then the characterised by into the ground using ood sand which is Farms is a Spearw it commonly reformed. in the top 30 cm and yellow or brown sand pH is neutral soil The depth. at e occurs over limeston water and sandy soil has limited The alkaline. to slightly been using Farms . Sam Calameri has compost at Baldivis nutrient holding capacity 10 years and has Key benefits of using Farms for the past compost on Baldivis and potato crops. in the soil has doubled carrot, cauliflower • Organic matter seen benefits in his Key Mess prompte ructure agesd by his trial compost was • Improved soil st In the 1990’s the Schreu Sam’s decision to a more had s rs had a problem “We soil. ed area the spotte n of • Adoption of an IP ompost with twod mite in their ed on c concern for the conditio leek and parsni M appas • No fumigant us roach on Pe crops all year round p crops. , growing Schre ter urs and Son % area of was t se by 10 intense cropping program “We had the sames farm been rotating our ion in fertiliser u rigger two-sfrom e our returns ed by a • Reduct potted mite chemicals makin were using differe problem we needed to maximis to the maximu m in their leek and g sure we ground rots by 30%nt chemical groups parsn pushing our ip crops e in yield of car Increas resista Sam. , so as to not cause land. I knew we were • said nce to to decline” one chemical, was starting but this was not • The Schreu of two-spatoes and our carrot yield l benefits d in pot otted mite had working. The potentia e in yiel rs tria the by t Increas led pr • built compos to up resistance to the ry mite, persimilis, to control twcapacity hit them with and on edato edlings Sam was attracted whatever we oung se holding o-spotted m were building in andblasting of y e and water ite in a fish t before being comf numbers.”

• Reduct ank, ion in s improved soil structur t and ortable to test the Not likingauliflow the ideaer, carro on a leek crop in fie appro ops in c of very sandy soil. contin ach iform cr uous use of dange • More un ld chemicals for health rous t, where he could reasons, and having compos s for • area potatoe Havin trial a g not used i an controlling pests, no success in Sam set up n’t rs the Schreu cides on their leek growing area with nsecti and do t treatedfor the needed an alterna past 15 year crop g beds are more stable compare a compos tive.

• Growin s, the Schreurs ca quality fully matured Fellow grower A high by side.the re n see Tom Schreurs sults in the 3 hectare untreated area side erode qualit (of of 20 m per y of their produce a – and no relatio at a rate applied reputa ated J. & J.M. Schreurs & Sons n!) advise tion with bu post tre nd on com compost has been d Darren to talk yersto tractors This equates o drive Horne area. trial with Easier t of the in IPM • Dr Paul Technologies.

• The Schreu to every crop grown per crop. rs have ado of compost being applied pted companion areas “Paul came in plantings, includin about a 2 mm layer giving an 2000 to have a g native trees and in the area each year, look at the proble having with the each Two crops are grown 3 provide bett For shrub year. m s, to per we two-spotted mite ICPSW1/044/1609 were 40 m per hectare er habitat for beneficial i and immediately us to stop sprayi application rate of nsects advised ng insecticides.

• Better custo This was unprec mer awareness ar advice, as for decad edented ound IPM and es we had relied the benefit of fresh chemicals to contro on spraying produce sold with l pests – and with chemical residues no be spraying at IPM we would is needed all. not Paul explained to us funded by how a predator This project has been persimilis, fed mite, called Australia on two-spotted Horticulture Innovation Peter levy and Schreurs and mite. By allowin persimilis to live Sons grow a range Limited using the vegetable g the . in the crop, they Government crops on of vegetable their 180 hectar would control the funds from the Australian spotted mite. e farm in Devon twoCranbourne in Meadows near Victoria. Leeks are the main crop business, but they in the also produce cos lettuce, endive kohl-rabi, womb , ok and radicchio.

On the farm, Darren Schreurs is respon pest and diseas sible for contro e in the crops. lling Darren first encou Integrated Pest ntered Management (IPM) when he was trying deal with mites and thrips in their to leek crop.

Darren recalls, “before we moved to using set insecticide IPM, we had a spray program for control of insect We used broadpests. spectrum insect icides, which killed insects, so in theory all we should have had clean crops no insects.” with cover crops below

THESE RESOURCES CAN BE FOUND AT WWW.SOILWEALTH.COM.AU

ier Frui

Experiences from

Overview

ll(s) n on the nt ly in red once the Acknowledgme fruit. No of the fruit. seed

L CONTRO piercing plastic mulch TYPE OF weed species, nutgrass right) Figure 1: Important registered left) and fat hen (above Currently in a cucurbit crop (above s 2011; Kristiansen 2015) fungicide (Source: Sindel et al.

• None permitted ds tly ren hea t Cur and tigh s crops rs h domed ate fungicide wit yea .

Rot e.g as for two ions • varieties, ical opt cted are tolerant ps on infe Non-chem funded by • Choose tible cro This project has been suscep Australia Horticulture Innovation growing levy and ditions • Avoid Limited using the vegetable in wet con Government. funds from the Australian harvesting • Avoid age dam – se plant 4 + M3 up • Minimi Gro MZ) – plants IL®GOLD infected OM troy (RID • Des mancozeb xyl-M + • Metala e registered effectiv Currently ter ides • None White blis dida) fungic can mitted per tly (Albugo lister Curren it.ly/whiteb strategies s http://b Use IPM fungicide refer to ions • rmation ical opt her info Non-chem • For furt

DISEASE Bacterial soft rot onas (Pseudom inia spp., Erw a) caratovor

l rot in

ropriate methods by • Choose the app le options considering the availab life as weather and crop • Consider timing such cycle e they set emoving weeds befor • Be diligent by r

seed or spread further ds and ledge of your main wee • Have good know their characteristics egrated and implement an Int • Develop a plan, M) strategy Weed Management (IW erbicide resistant and • Watch out for h report them if found prescribed weeds and

a in brassic ct uirements es, inse ticide req ntified diseas red or iewed pes s ide t ustry rev R proces , available registe This SA grated Pes etable ind threats s of Inte in 2014. the veg se ) the term RP and ) in issues.

Against cess (SA Ltd (HIA suitability environmental iew Pro industry.

Australia overall Rev ble l for and tion eta ica in re Innova Agrichem the brassica veg were evaluated e, human safety duction ns, Horticultu via a Strategic to pro trad n utio y, ble cer sol cac s con a vegeta -pesticide lding period, effi vegetable of major brassic weeds with non impacting , along es, withho pests and methods, pesticides istance, residu control ), res permitted ts, and ent (IPM rity pes Managem high prio les list the owing tab foll The Australia.

Diseas h Priority

Implementing IPM

res e (in a glasshouse) Property size: 40 hecta eld), hydroponic lettuc ower, potatoes (all in-fi Crops: Carrots, caulifl and Soil type: Spearwood s

st of growing

• Weeds increase the co p yield and quality, and vegetables, reduce cro ent and profitability impact farm managem t n important componen ent is a anagem

• Weed m protection approach – of the integrated crop gical ultural and biolo combining chemical, c s, insect pests and methods to keep weed o prevent nough t re low e disease pressu oss significant economic l

of weeds The growth and the 2016 d by soil disturbance, irrigationmany vegetable Februaryis enhance harbour ion of fertilisers. Weeds

a

e Blogn , Charlie Blogna and Jo Owners: Sam Calameri tern Australia Location: Baldivis, Wes

Key messages

ICP1/050/1611

ICP1/050/161

YOUR PRODUCTION

Facebook

Videos and apps

A series of short videos, webinar recordings and apps designed to aid the Australian vegetable industry in plant health and soil management.

The 36 videos and apps are arranged by topic (crop management, pest and disease management, and soil, nutrition and compost), each with a brief summary and link to the video.

Phase 2 of the project is currently under development and will run for the next five years.

MORE INFORMATION For more information please visit the website www.soilwealth.com.au

Budgets Help Protect From Financial Hardship Getting the most out of your farm is as much about planning as it is about farming. Agrimaster, a software program that has been written by farmers for farmers easily handles your day to day accounts and cash book; but more importantly helps you plan ahead; creating budgets from the data to explore the 'what if' options and even intelligently interfaces with your bank.

Agrimaster equips you with the tools and processes necessary in these volatile times we live in, to allow you to make informed decisions for your Agribusiness Enterprise.

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A humble budget can be your most powerful tool when it comes to your finances. Agrimaster's powerful tools and processes can help you with: Tax reports and completing your BAS Income and expenditure forecasting Evaluating business performance & progress Managing and tracking expenses Strategic planning for future growth Creating a financial & overall business roadmap Grow your business and avoid financial hardship with Agrimaster.

Subscribe now and use the code "VEGWA2018" for $110 discount off your first year subscription. Call 1800 110 000 and quote your code to our sales team or buy online: www.agrimaster.com.au and enter the discount at the checkout.

For more information: Call: 1800 110 000 | Email: sales@agrimaster.com.au | Visit: www.agrimaster.com.au

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

27

YOUR PRODUCTION

A SOIL BORNE DISEASE MASTERCLASS IS PLANNED FOR LATE APRIL/EARLY MAY IN CARNARVON AND GINGIN.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

YOUR PRODUCTION

Soil Borne Disease update

BY SAM GRUBISA INDUSTRY EXTENSION OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

O

n January 18th Truyen and I had a morning with soil health expert Dr Doris Blaesing.

An Associate of RMCG, a facilitator for VegPRO, AUSVEG 2015 Researcher of the Year and expert to the VegNET project, Doris was in Western Australia to check the progress of Applied Horticulture Research and RMCG’s Soil Wealth and Integrated Crop Protection (ICP) extension projects (VG13076/VG13078).

As Truyen and I are part of the VegNET project (VG15043) we were happy to take an opportunity to spend the morning talking about Phase 2 of the Soil Wealth project, possible workshops within WA, in addition to making farm visits to two of our Vietnamese growers.

Phase 1 (VG13076/VG13078) of the Soil Wealth and ICP project focused on supporting existing soil management material and assisting growers to effectively use this information on farm. It also featured regionally based demonstration sites with a focus on biofumigation, cover cops, biology and soil carbon, reduced tillage nutrition management and soil borne diseases. To read the findings on the carrot project Doris has been working on turn to page 21 of this edition of the WA Grower.

Phase 2 (VG16078) plans to respond to increasing economic, consumer, environmental and technological demands placed on vegetable producers. It will deliver integrated, independent research-based information to growers as a means to support business decisions surrounding soil management and plant health. With a focus on research and its extension, this new phase will see training delivery through VegPRO; extension materials such as factsheets, videos and case studies; on-line delivery through websites, social media and webinars; together with local delivery through VegNET.

The project will be guided by four major themes: 1. Proactively review developments in technology such as drones, satellite data, robots and soil/crop management equipment; and present the reviewed information in an easyto-use, adoptable/adaptable format.

2. A production systems approach showing the increase in challenges and the sophistication of vegetable production, the need for intensive productivity and consistently high quality, along with consumer needs.

3. Innovations in soil and crop health management that may reduce waste, improve product quality and percentage of product meeting specification; along with possibly reducing input/variable costs.

4. Improving sustainability and robustness of farming systems, with an emphasis on the impacts of increased climate variability, extreme weather events and minimising the impacts of farming on the environment.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR PRODUCTION

With the aim of the project being to ‘prime’ the industry to uptake new and relevant R&D outputs developed here and overseas, adoption of current and future innovations and technological advancements. It will link in with Hort Innovation investments as well as extension and training initiatives VegNET, VegPRO and AUSVEG communications to ensure the information is dispersed throughout the industry.

Specific topic areas will include: • Soil amendments • Soil biology • Cover crops and biofumigation • Reduced tillage • New equipment / machinery • Emerging technology and precision agriculture • Nutrition management • Irrigation management • Insect, nematode and mite management • Weed management and crop protection • Disease management • Biological protection products

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable research and development levy and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the growerowned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

30

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

A previously well received Soil Borne Disease Masterclass is planned for late April/early May in Carnarvon and Gingin with further workshops and field presentations planned for around the state.

I look forward to working with this project; digging in the dirt and learning what gives our soils life.

With Doris and Dr Gordon Rogers from AHR managing the project and NSW DPI Senior Plant Pathologist; Dr Len Tesoriero leading the research component, the future health of our soils is in good hands.

MORE INFORMATION Information taken from: www.soilwealth.com.au

TOOL TIME

TOOL

TIME

your

production WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

31

TOOL TIME

FarmBiosecurity app Compatibility: iPhone, iPad and iPod touch. Requires iOS 8.0 or later for Android

F

arm biosecurity is a hot topic within the vegetables/ horticulture industry. With recent incursions of Tomato potato psyllid and brown marmorated stink bug, vigilance and a sound biosecurity plan are key to keeping your property and region free from pest infiltration.

Step 1

Select the ‘Start your FarmBiosecurity Plan here’ text on the Welcome screen to create a property profile name.

Step 2

Create your property profile name.

Remember you can set up profiles for multiple properties or areas of your property.

Technology is establishing itself as a significant tool in assisting growers with many aspects of on-farm best practice; and this app appears to check more than one of those boxes. In addition to aiding the grower in developing a biosecurity plan; there is also a feature that allows you to email the plan to yourself, a supplier, farm auditor, quarantine auditor or visitors to your property. Being able to print the plan also means you can easily add it to your Quality Assurance records.

Step 3

Through their transient nature they enable disease and pests to be more widely spread and for this reason, need to be actively monitored and controlled.

Step 4

This app covers the six essential biosecurity concerns: arm inputs — To reduce the 1 F biosecurity risks to your property, monitoring plant material, water and fertiliser that enter is essential. Keep records of all farm inputs so that you can trace-back or trace-forward in the event of a pest or disease outbreak. eople, vehicles and equipment — If 2 P it can move, it can carry diseases, pests and weeds. For this reason, people, vehicles and equipment pose a high biosecurity risk and should be managed accordingly. Cleaning protocols and signage are a good place to start. roduction and practices — 3 P Implement simple biosecurity measures as part of your every day management practice to reduce the risk of spreading pests and diseases.

Getting into a habit of regularly monitoring crops and applying hygienic practices on-farm help to minimise the risk of pests and disease spreading on your property, between properties and throughout your region. eral animals and weeds — Feral 4 F animals, wildlife and weeds are a widespread nuisance that can cause harm to your crops and business.

32

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

arm outputs — Responsible 5 F biosecurity practices don’t just begin and end at your farm gate.

Protecting your region and the industry by maintaining good on-farm hygiene and ensuring transport/ delivery providers abide by the same standards, play an important role in supply chain and farm biosecurity.

Sound biosecurity practices should be industry wide. rain, plan, record — Ensuring staff 6 T are well trained, that you have the ability to trace where plant/produce has come from and you have records of purchases, sales and movements are an important part of farm biosecurity. Sound record keeping and training of staff will help to reduce the effect of an outbreak on your property or in your region, as traceability is key to a quick incursion response.

The majority of growers have a smart phone and can therefore download an app; if that app can aid in understanding and minimising biosecurity issues as well as kicking goals for your Quality Assurance… why not let your phone be the smart one?

Once you have created your property, press the ‘6 Essentials’ button to start developing your biosecurity plan.

Choose from the various categories within each of the 6 Essentials.

When in a category, first look at the risks, then review the recommended actions, then select from the suggested actions and add them to your plan.

Step 5

Once you have selected the actions you wish to save, go back to the home screen by tapping the house icon in the top left corner. Once you are back at the home screen, select ‘FarmBiosecurity Plan’ to view your plan.

Step 6

When you are on the ‘FarmBiosecurity Plan’ page, you can view, delete or add to your actions list by pressing the ‘+’ symbol next to your plan or email the plan to yourself or somebody else by pressing the ‘Email my actions list’ button.

Source: www.farmbiosecurity.com.au/ farmbiosecurity-app

TOOL TIME

Step 1

Step 2

Veg Pest ID app

33GET into a habit of regularly monitoring crops and applying hygienic practices on-farm.

Compatibility: iOS devices

Step 3

Step 5

Step 4

Step 6

V

eg Pest ID helps farmers and other agricultural professionals identify pests on the go. Whether trying to identify an unfamiliar pest, find the source of a nutritional problem or take the first steps towards control, the Veg Pest ID app will help you protect and manage your crop.

It brings together a database of pictures and information on pests, diseases and disorders specifically affecting Australian vegetables crops.

It allows you to access information in the field, where it is needed, without having to trawl through a single ute guide or endless books.

The benefits include:

• Can be used with no internet connection • Automatically updates when connected to Wi-Fi This app is Australian made, by Australian Scientists/Researchers, for Australian Growers. The first steps to identifying and fighting those little Aussie blighters really is in the palm of your hand.

TO DOWNLOAD GO TO

• Easy keyword searches • High quality pictures • Search either the crop or the pest • Detailed information to identify different life stages, optimal infestation/damage conditions and initial control methods WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

33

TOOL TIME

Hitachi is helping to bring

precision to Australian Agriculture

BY DERRICK THOMPSON HITACHI AUSTRALIA

H

itachi Australia is working with the Japanese government, other Japanese organisations, local partners and universities to demonstrate the value of using positioning satellites to deliver a highly efficient farming system that allows agricultural machines to travel autonomously while at the same time creating highly accurate farmland maps.

In the demonstrations, the positioning satellite being used is the Japanese Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, or QZSS for short.

How does it work?

GNSS signals are tracked by stations in Australia and transmitted to Japan. At the Analysis Centre, a Correction message is generated in Japan. That Correction message is then broadcast on the QZSS L6 signal. That Correction message is received and used by the autonomous tractor, UAV or other mobile device equipped with a QZSS Receiver for precise control. And by precise control we mean a best to date of +/- 2cm horizontally and +/6cm vertically. And this level of accuracy can be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week meaning that when coupled with a fully autonomous tractor, farm work can be carried out around the clock.

34

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

The work first started in rice fields in Southern NSW, progressed to sugar cane fields in Mackay QLD, avocado farms in Bundaberg QLD and now in February 2018 on a mixed farm — with particular focus on asparagus and bananas — in Carnarvon, WA.

By delivering such precision, a QZSS solution will generate on-farm productivity gains by allowing more efficient utilisation of resources, reduction in on-farm inputs and improved yield output per hectare.

With the Carnarvon demonstration, one of the objectives will be to use a UAV (drone), positioned by the QZSS, to accurately pinpoint weeds that can be geo-tagged for automatic spot spraying at a later date, thus resulting in the amount of chemicals needed to kill the weeds is substantially reduced.

MORE INFORMATION

AGRICULTURAL MACHINES TRAVELLING AUTONOMOUSLY.

For further information please contact: Derrick Thompson, Senior Manager – Key Accounts & Business Development, Hitachi Australia Pty Ltd (02) 9888 4146 email 0428 507 164 or go to www.hitachi.com.au

YOUR INDUSTRY

your

industry Your industry WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR INDUSTRY

Adopting soil moisture monitoring innovation n o i t a g i r r i e n u t e n i to f

BY VO THE TRUYEN VIETNAMESE FIELD EXTENSION OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

36

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

YOUR INDUSTRY

D

eclining underground water resources is a serious issue to Western Australian horticulture.

available water for plants”. Fluid drawn in and out of the tensiometers porous tip, depending on water availability, creates a suction pressure representing the suction force required for a plant to obtain water from the soil.

Government and industry bodies have over the years explored water use and water use efficiency with several projects such as Water for Food (Carnarvon), More dollars per Drop (WA), and Assessment grower practices on irrigation, fertiliser, and pest and disease management (Perth and Carnarvon).

Tensiometers need skills to manage and to interpret readings. The most common problem in their use is the tensiometer is not positioned within the crop's root zone and the irrigation wetting pattern and the gauge reading remains on zero. Tensiometers need regular attention too. Sometimes air does enter through the ceramic tip and through the joins, particularly at high tension which influences the gauge reading. Grower adopters do not always understand these intricacies and find it hard to achieve success.

In line with that effort WA vegetable growers are also finetuning their conventional irrigation practices towards making the most use of a limited water allocation to increase their profit.

Su Tran, a Carnarvon tomato grower discusses how he has learnt and benefited from using different soil moisture monitoring devices. Su’s learning curve over the years trying to understand the soil moisture dynamic and combining different tools to assist his irrigation decisions.

1 The tensiometer (manually reading a vacuum gauge) Su’s first attempt was in 2011 to understand the soil moisture status by using the tensiometers, which measurements can be done by manually reading a vacuum gauge (see Figure 1).

Expectation: Su Tran bought these devices in different sizes from a local supplier expecting he could “read the soil water status at different depths” which might help his irrigation decisions.

Attempt: It was easy for Su to plant the tensiometers at different soil depths in a tomato bed and read numbers on their gauges. In contrast, it was very difficult to establish the correlation between the readings and the soil water status to establish an irrigation schedule and amend.

FIGURE 1 Tensiometers Source: www.soilmoisture.com/SOILMOISTURE-TENSIOMETER-60-SIZE/

Learning: Advice on how to install, management and how the tensiometer work were provided by the local supplier. He thought he could learn while adopting this innovation regardless of the fact that he could not up take technical advice in full with his limited English.

He has struggled to figure out what a reading meant, how does he tell the soil water status, and why the gauge reading remained on zero. In reality it was hard for Su to figure out why the reading variation did not match with his observation with the soil moisture and observation of the crop. Su could not obtain a clear benefit.

Moreover, manually reading after every irrigation shift is disruptive to Su’s routine tasks.

Adoption: After a season with the tensiometers Su decided to un-adopt these tools.

Discussion: Tensiometer is a knowledge-based innovation in soil moisture monitoring. It requires a certain level of basic knowledge on physics and soil science to successfully adopt this additional tool to influence an irrigation decision.

In principle, the tensiometer measures how hard it is to remove water from the soil (at different depths) which is providing “the best indication of

Growers with limited science knowledge need proper training, especially with those who speak a language other than English, to successfully adopt this knowledgebased innovation to influence an irrigation decision.

moisture monitoring on 2 Soil

the web Su Tran was then introduced to a “smart” soil moisture monitoring system, Outpost Central, early in 2017.

He commenced a year’s free trial when he participated in an irrigation, fertilizer, pest and disease management project (this project was funded by Gascoyne Development Commission, the Department of Agriculture and Food with assistance from vegetablesWA).

Through this trial Su has learnt and quickly picked up the benefits of having this soil moisture monitoring device to influence his irrigation decisions. He has subsequently invested in two more sets for other plots in his tomato farm.

Expectation: Su expected to learn something useful to assist him with his irrigation decisions. Whilst he had the benefit of a year’s free trial and technical service by having a set of “smart” soil moisture monitoring on his farm.

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Attempt: The soil monitoring hardware from Outpost Central consists of soil moisture probes connecting to a compact digital data logger.

Interestingly, the soil moisture probes are tensiometers that are similar to those that Su had tried years ago except the readings are automatically transferred to the data logger.

The service provider sets up the charts (see Figure 3) to display the most complex of information clearly and concisely. Remote unattended monitoring allows Su to know what is going on by reading his mobile phone.

More importantly the service alerts Su receives via SMS and email on his smart phone when an alarm event occurs.

The data logger comprises of a Learning: Su Tran revealed that this powerful data recorder and modem. innovation adoption has helped him This device collects data from to gain knowledge on exactly the attached tensiometers. what is happening to moisture Once activated the unit SMS ALARM SENT levels below the surface. It is pre-programmed to allows for a detailed analysis WHEN THE SOIL MOISTURE IS send data to the service of the soil moisture levels and NEAR TO OR BEYOND providers’ website as often influences his decisions in his STRESS POINT. as the area demands for irrigation scheduling. charting, storage and backup.

Although the hardware is complex In the free one-year trial, a soil (as compared to the tensiometer that moisture specialist — Scott Brain, Su has tried previously) the information from Carnarvon-based agronomy he obtains from it is concise and clear. service provider Field Capacity, worked with Su to install and set up the best The low and high alarm as an SMS monitoring system for his situation. is very helpful in assisting irrigation Refill and stress points are set up shifts and scheduling. However, Su within the range of soil moisture levels observed that there is lag between that are believed to be best for the water application, data collection and SuTran tomatoes crop performance. Low and SMS alert message. Therefore, Su does Email Report from 13/Oct/2017 high alarms in the form of an SMS is sent to Su’s smart phone (see Figure CGA_007 2) when the soil moisture is near to or CGA_007 - Stacked beyond the stress point.

Image

Facts & Figures

SuTranA SuTran A

Image

Facts & Figures

SuTranB SuTranB

Image

FIGURE 2 SMS alert message

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

FIGURE 3 Email report

Facts & Figures

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not totally rely on these devices, using them as an additional factor to combine with his observations and experience to his final irrigation decision.

The charts with refill and stress lines creates a pictorial image on the dynamics of the soil moisture below the surface. These are needed to facilitate the learning faster. The stable reading at 60cm depth makes Su happy that he could avoid leaching losses from overfull profiles, eliminating fertiliser wastage and environmental concerns.

Maintaining close contact to the moisture specialist from the service provider is very important during the learning phase. Besides setting up the system at the beginning, the specialist helps answer questions and address issues occurring during the implementation.

Adopting: Su’s confidence built up over the learning phase during the one-year demonstration of this soil moisture monitoring system.

Su’s irrigation practices changed from a two-day schedule with a long shift time to a daily schedule with one shorter shift. Although water saving is not achieved, Su is confident that the water use efficiency has improved through better crop performance.

Since the completion of the initial trial phase of one year, Su has invested in two more sets for other plots on his farm given that their soil conditions are different.

Discussion: Although the hardware used for soil moisture monitoring is complex (compared to the tensiometer), proper training and demonstration along with consultation with the specialist made it easy for the LOTE grower to understand and use.

Management of these new devices are not disruptive to Su’s routine tasks as he can access data and charts over his mobile phone at his convenience.

As it was shown in the More dollar per Drop project report the alternating of irrigation days was an existing irrigation practice. It made the crops drought stressed every second day which significantly limited yields. Su has changed to everyday watering and utilising the knowledge from this innovation has proved to be the right move. Su has benefited from better crop performance and a yield advantage.

Su has had a chance to receive a free trial and services to learn and observe the advantages of this soil moisture monitoring tool (better crop performance). This is a contributing factor to adoption.

MORE INFORMATION If you are interested in understanding soil moisture contact Truyen Vo on email Truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au or mobile 0457 457 559.

Flow Rate: 0.7, 1.1, 1.4, 1.8, 2.5 L/Hr at 1bar Emitter Spacing: 10cm, 15cm, 20cm, 25cm, 30cm, 40cm, etc.

Thickness: 200 micron(8mil), 250 micron(10mil), etc.

2 1 / 1 1 0 I N S P I R AT I O N D R I V E , W ANGARA, 6 0 6 5 WA , A USTRALIA +61 8 9303 9638 I N F O @ PA L I Z . C O M . A U PA L I Z . C O M . A U P A L I Z A G R I C U LT U R E

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Mapping variation at harvest

n o s r o t i n o m d l - yie s r e t s e v r a h t o r car

ALLAN MCKAY 1 , JULIE O’HALLORAN 2 , CELIA VAN SPRANG 2 AND IAN LAYDEN 2 1 H ORTICULTURAL CONSULTANT FOR VEGETABLESWA 2 DAF QUEENSLAND

This yield data and maps can be used to determine: which areas are underperforming, the degree of variability contributing to the underperforming areas and a potential profit/loss map.

enter West is now able to map carrot yield to identify and quantify the extent of spatial variability in their carrot crops.

A key element of this project is demonstrating what precision technologies are commercially available to assist in horticulture with identifying and understanding crop variability.

The yield monitor logs real time carrot data to a server and data can then be downloaded and processed into yield maps. Figure 2 highlights some of these yield maps.

Yield monitoring is one such method that provides a real-time measure of variability in the field at harvest and has been received well by the growers involved with this project as a tool for their production operations and agronomy.

C

While yield data can provide some information on where yield is variable, additional surveys of the field will be required to determine underlying causes or areas of limitation, such as nutrient deficiency or moisture stress.

Methods to assess variability in the field prior to harvest include: • EM38 mapping, which measures the apparent electrical conductivity in the soil, indicating differences in soil texture and salt levels. This is done when the field is under bare fallow.

• Strategic soil and plant sampling • Crop sensing imagery for biomass can be used to assess variability in crop and over subsequent crops where carrots are part of a longer rotation.

FIGURE 1 Left: The yield monitor control unit in the tractor cab. Right: The 4-row ASA-lift carrot harvester at Center West, WA to which a yield monitor is fitted (Source: Allan McKay, 2018)

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FIGURE 2 Preliminary yield maps of recently harvested areas on Center West properties, WA. The red areas in the fields show lower yielding zones and green/blue areas show higher yielding zones

YIELD MONITORING PROVIDES A REAL-TIME MEASURE OF VARIABILITY IN THE FIELD.

Source: Advanced Technology Viticulture, 2018

Yield monitor installation at Center West was part of the national project ‘Adoption of precision systems technologies in vegetable production’ (VG16009).

This unit is one of a suite of yield monitors on carrot harvesters across Australia with units also installed at sites in South Australia, and Tasmania and a pre-existing monitor in south east Queensland.

The yield monitors were supplied and installed by Bernd Klienlagel of Advance Technology Viticulture, based in South Australia. The unit consists of a loadcell fitted to the unloading elevator on the harvester, a control and data recording WiFi capable GPS unit in the tractor cab and a wireless router for data transmission.

MORE INFORMATION For further information on this project, please contact: • Allan McKay on 0427 621 773 • Rachel Lancaster on 0428 771 937 • Julie O’Halloran on (07) 5346 9528 or julie.o’halloran@daf.qld.gov.au

This project: The Horticulture Innovation Australia funded project Adoption of precision systems technology in vegetable production (VG16009), led by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (QDAF), commenced in early 2017.

and Regions SA, vegetablesWA and the Society of Precision Agriculture Australia (SPAA). The key areas of investigation centre on the following questions:

The aim of the project is to support the vegetable industry with the adoption of precision agriculture technologies. The project will develop case study farms in each state for research and extension, to showcase the potential applications of relevant precision technologies.

• Is the observed/quantified variation having an economic impact?

The project has a number of collaborators across Australia including the University of New England (UNE), Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA), Harvest Moon, Primary Industries

• Is there farm/block variability?

• Can this variability be understood and managed?

• Are current management practices/equipment suitable for addressing any variation?

• Will a precision approach elicit a yield/quality response?

• What is the return on investment?

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GROWER PROFILE

Danny Trandos

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PERTH

NEERABUP

Business Trandos Hydroponics Growers General Manager Danny Trandos Location Neerabup Greenhouses 5 Enterprises Tomatoes, and nursery seedlings, capsicum, eggplant, cucumber and watermelon

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S

BY SAM GRUBISA INDUSTRY EXTENSION OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

ince 1939 the Trandos family has been farming in Perth’s northern suburb of Neerabup.

With a 79-year history in the Western Australian primary producing arena, the Trandos family can undoubtedly be considered pioneers of the horticulture industry. Carrying the torch of his ancestor, Grandfather Dimitrios, into a new age of technology is third generation farmer, Danny Trandos.

Danny is the General Manager of Trandos Hydroponics Growers (THG), one of Australia’s premier hydroponic growers and a supplier of tomatoes to Woolworths.

With a state-of-the-art and technologically innovative facility that uses greenhouses to hydroponically grow produce, a nursery that supplies grafted and ungrafted tomato and watermelon seedlings nationally and THG’s on-site laboratory; Danny and his team of experts have come a long way from such modest ‘market gardener’ foundations.

In addition to their high-quality products, THG maintains the highest level of hygiene and quality assurance to ensure their facility remains contamination and disease free. In addition to top level biosecurity practices and a private on-site laboratory, THG safeguards their premises through the continuous testing of both the plants and irrigation water. Some of their biosecurity practices include certification as a pest free production site, sterilisation of all propagation materials; staff hygiene dictates wearing THG supplied company uniforms and passing through a foot bath/ hand wash sterilisation zone to ensure accredited procedure is upheld. It is because of these stringent protocols that THG is as highly regarded as they are.

In the midst of 2017’s Tomato potato psyllid incursion, THG were a beacon of biosecurity protocols. All of the innovation, financial inputs and pure hard work that has been undertaken by Danny and his

team over the years, allowed them to stay clean and clear of the pest while being smack bang in the middle of a quarantine zone.

TPP’s invasion of WA has impacted all areas of horticulture production, including those with above average standards.

THG are accredited as a CA-14 Pest Free Production Site and have been audited by interstate auditors.

property stay within indicated ‘safe’ areas are just a few things you can do that will make a big impression on biosecurity. As we settle into the era of TPP Transition to Management, looking forward THG supports the process and sees the benefit of state recognised CLso free status in WA.

As we have been trawling through the archives in preparation for vegetablesWA’s 70th birthday, a grower profile from 2007 with Young Vegetable Grower of the Year — They have unanimous national Danny Trandos stood out. When I showed acceptance of their planting the article to Danny, he threw his head back and laughed as he said “Oh material and the highest my God! Look at that… that non-government/research was a long time ago”. The certification for a fact that this award still DIFFERENT SITUATIONS commercial nursery in hangs in his office, the DICTATE THE LEVEL OF HYGIENE Australia and yet trade earnest regard with which AND BIOSECURITY PROTOCOLS/ he speaks of the night of has still been affected.

PROCEDURES NEEDED. the awards and the shine When I asked Danny for his of reminiscence in his eyes; opinion on biosecurity in general, proves without a doubt that his reply was simple; “Different this man is passionate about situations dictate the level of hygiene horticulture, yet personally invested in and biosecurity protocols/procedures a family empire that has grown from such needed. Do the best you can to protect humble beginnings. your farm and region”. Not all growers need to be as highly accredited as THG, MORE INFORMATION however basic farm biosecurity can go For information on biosecurity contact Sam a long way in protecting our industry.

Grubisa at sam.grubisa@vegetableswa.com.

Being aware of threats, using good quality au or for more information on THG visit their propagation material, ensuring workers website www.thg.trandos.com.au and visitors follow a high standard of hygiene, decontaminating farm machinery and making sure vehicles that enter your

THG will be hosting a WA Greenhouse and Hydroponic Growers’ Workshop with Protected Cropping Australia (PCA)

Monday 30th April 2018

Trandos Hydroponic Growers 1 Trandos Road, Neerabup WA 6031 Sponsorship and delegate enquiries to Saskia:

E: admin@protectedcroppingaustralia.com P: 0414 333 996 W: www.protectedcroppingaustralia.com

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Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Identifying suitable land e r u lt u c ti r o h d te a ig r ir g in for expand around Myalup

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soil survey covering 38,000 hectares of land east of Myalup has been conducted to identify land suitable for expanding irrigated agriculture.

The sandy soils around Myalup are highly sought-after for irrigated horticulture because their drainage and workability means they can be cropped year round.

The survey, undertaken in the western part of the Shire of Harvey, was completed by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development as part of the Myalup-Wellington project.

33GRAEME Rose and David Rowe with soil profile.

The assessment involved:

• describing soil profiles at 140 new sites • analysing chemical and physical properties of 80 soil samples • updating the existing soil mapping • characterising the major soil-landscape types as land management units (LMUs), which can be used to guide how an area of land will react and produce under certain management • creating land capability maps for irrigated horticulture covering 20,000ha of land potentially available for development.

The assessment identified about 600ha of land within the current irrigation area with moderate to high capability for irrigated horticulture.

However, this land is fragmented by property boundaries, infrastructure and areas of unsuitable soil, thereby reducing the potential for broad-scale developments.

The most significant area for expansion is 3500ha of Spearwood; soils currently used for pine plantations, sand mining and minor horticulture. The suitable soil types in this area are yellow deep sands, and pale deep sands with yellow sandy subsoils, which have moderate to high capability for irrigated horticulture.

For the full published report, read the Resource Management Technical Report 400: Land capability assessment for expanding irrigated horticulture around Myalup.

The report is intended to highlight the areas of land best suited for developing irrigated horticulture in order to secure future areas for WA food production, and to form a starting point for more detailed investigations regarding individual developments.

MORE INFORMATION For more information contact David Rowe, Research Officer, Bunbury, on (08) 9780 6132.

38,000 HECTARES

OF LAND EAST OF MYALUP HAS BEEN SURVEYED.

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2018 AUSTRALIAN MELON CONFERENCE & FIELD DAYS 17–20 SEPTEMBER 2018

The Australian Melon Industry will host the 2018 Conference & Field Days, in Townsville and Ayr in Queensland on 17–20 September 2018.

REGISTER SOON TO RECEIVE EARLY BIRD RATES.

The Conference and Industry Dinner will be held at the Mercure Townsville.

The Conference will kick off with a ferry trip to Peppers Blue on Blue Resort at Magnetic Island for drinks and dinner on Monday evening, 17th September.

The Field Day at Ken Duncan’s property, Sandhills Road, Ayr will have practical demonstrations and kilometres of melon variety trials. The 2016 conference in Mildura featured over 4,000 meters of melons!

The next two days will be full of the latest technical and research information with a large trade show at the Mercure resort in Townsville. Australian and international presenters will speak on breeding, food safety, soil and pest issues. Export development will also feature.

This a great chance to catch up with other growers, researchers and supply chain representatives from across the melon industry. The Industry Dinner on 18th September is always popular with a buffet and drinks under the stars at the Mercure Resort.

MORE INFORMATION

Mecure Resort

Registrations are now open for the Conference. Get the EARLY BIRD RATE by registering soon. We have organised reduced rates for accommodation and this could be a great opportunity to bring the family to North Queensland or take a fishing trip to the beautiful Great Barrier Reef.

Go to: www.melonsaustralia.org. au/industry-news/2018-australianmelon-industry-conference-field-days

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BEAUTIFUL FRESH PRODUCE AT THE ALBANY FARMERS MARKETS.

Industry Extension Update Autumn 2018

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BY SAM GRUBISA INDUSTRY EXTENSION OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

he team at vegetablesWA finished off 2017 with a Christmas stakeholder event and we would like to thank our growers who travelled from North and South to attend.

With a state so vast, having our regional committee of management members is one of the keys to our success. If you are unsure who your regional representative is, check out the ‘About Us’ page on the vegetablesWA website (www.vegetableswa.com.au).

During January we had a visit from 2015 AUSVEG Researcher of the Year; Dr Doris Blaesing. Working with both RMCG and VegPRO as the ‘Soil Borne Disease Expert’, she is a wealth of knowledge.

Being updated on Phase 2 of the Soil Wealth & Integrated Crop Protection project by someone involved was invaluably informative. In addition to Truyen and me spending time with Doris, we were able to go out on farm with two of our Vietnamese growers. Patchy, stunted growth and plants with limited vigour as well as Tomato Canker and Fusarium Wilt were on the agenda; and as these are issues many growers have to contend with, getting a one-on-one session with Doris was valuable to the grower.

During my recent trip to Albany it was great to attend the Albany Farmers Markets as well as growers farms and see the produce available and the way they grow things in the region.

Not having to heavily rely on the water licences the way the other regions do and to have a thriving farmers market each week are a couple of ways the region differs.

The next six months is starting to fill up with visits to Albany and Carnarvon, a Soil Borne Disease Masterclass and

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Negotiation Training already locked in.

Geraldton, Manjimup and Donnybrook visits are also in the pipeline with planning for a few Chemical Handling courses happening behind the scenes.

If any of these courses interest you please register your interest with myself or Truyen to ensure we can contact you once the workshops are finalised.

A baby leaf seed trial and Soil Borne Disease presentation are in the not so distant future, as well as a number of Labour Focus Group sessions and Workplace Essentials Workshops. In between this there will be many grower visits, if you need assistance please let the team know. During June we’ll be heading off to Hort Connections in Brisbane, for three days of non-stop information, innovation and networking, we look forward to seeing growers.

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Upcoming events 12–16

March

April

12

Carnarvon Informal Information Session at the Bomb Shelter (English speakers)

12

Labour Focus Groups: University of Adelaide — Wanneroo (Vietnamese speakers with translation by Truyen Vo)

13

Labour Focus Groups: University of Adelaide — Gingin

14

Labour Focus Groups: University of Adelaide — Myalup

14

Carnarvon Informal Information Session at the Bomb Shelter (Vietnamese speakers with translation by Truyen Vo)

20

Albany Growers Meeting with Sam Grubisa & John Shannon

4–5

Negotiation Training — West Perth

30

Protected Cropping Workshop — Wanneroo

30–May 2 May

Carnarvon Grower visit with Bryn Edwards (Benchmarking Lead) and Joel Dinsdale (Quality Assurance Coordinator)

3 21, 22–24

June

18–20

July

10

Carnarvon Soil Borne Disease Masterclass (Presented by Dr Doris Blaesing and Dr Len Tesoriero with translation by Truyen Vo) Seed Trial and Soil Borne Disease presentation Workplace Essentials Workshop (Gingin, Wanneroo and Manjimup respectively with Translation by Truyen Vo) TBC Hort Connections in Brisbane VegInnovations Market City Canning Vale

TBA

Chemical Training Perth

TBA

Chemical Training Carnarvon

MORE INFORMATION If you would like further information on any of these events, have an idea for a workshop in your region or would like a farm visit, please contact your Industry Extension Officers:

Truyen Vo m: 0457 457 559 e: Truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au Sam Grubiša m: 0427 373 037 e: sam.grubisa@vegetableswa.com.au

Karakin via Lancelin

For sale by private treaty with offers now invited

179.01 ha (442.35 ac)

‘Lancelin Farm’ Large scale, turn-key horticulture operation!

• State-of-the-art production & processing operation • Massive 4.875gL water licence with high capacity bores • Productive, easy working well drained soils • Substantial infrastructure including modern processing and packing facilities • Mediterranean climate conducive to high production output • Location provides a high level of biosecurity • Extremely rare opportunity Listing details and photos available at landmarkwa.harcourts.com.au/LEP4743 Adam Shields 0429 104 760 Glenn McTaggart 0429 611 124 LANDMARK HARCOURTS WA Licensed Real Estate & Business Agency.

Licensee: Landmark Realty (WA) Pty Ltd ABN 70 009 238 993. Principal: Glenn McTaggart.

Level 1, 66 Belgravia Street, Belmont WA 6104. PO Box 7467, Cloisters Square WA 6850.

T. 08 9318 8260 F. 08 9318 8126 E. admin.wa@landmarkharcourts.com.au

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2018 Gascoyne Food Festival Launching at Yagan Square on 24

F

BY GEORGIA THOMAS GASCOYNE FOOD COUNCIL

ollowing on from last years successful events, work is underway to ensure an even better Gascoyne Food Festival in 2018. Key event dates have been locked in and organisations across the region are working collaboratively to develop new concepts and exciting opportunities for industry.

The Gascoyne Food Council continues to advocate for food producers in the region to ensure there is a strong focus on commercial opportunities. This year discussions are underway to bring targeted delegations to the region, including high level caterers and chefs, and international buyers. Additionally, with more events to be added to the program over the next few years, there will be new opportunities for business matching in the region as well.

Gascoyne’s Taste of WA at Yagan Square Buy West Eat Best are working with its members and the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority to run a series of ‘Taste of WA’ events at the new Yagan Square development, with the Gascoyne to feature on the 24th June with WA Food Ambassador, Chef Don Hancey as MC.

June

Gascoyne Food Council representatives will be providing free food samples, product and tourism information to the general public at the event, which will also be the official launch the Gascoyne Food Festival.

A separate invite-only event will be held at the same location to formally welcome the chefs and media attending this years festival.

The launch will be supported with a strategic media plan, which will feature some exciting announcements to promote the festival. Buy West Eat Best will also be facilitating introductions to Yagan Square tenants to develop business opportunities for Gascoyne food producers.

Gascoyne Food Festival

dates

It is with great excitement that the Gascoyne Food Council can confirm the dates for some of the amazing events at this years festival.

Please mark your diary and follow social media or subscribe to the e-news for more updates and to be notified when tickets go on sale.

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FREE FOOD SAMPLES, AND PRODUCT AND TOURISM INFORMATION.

Dirk Hartog Island

5–10

8–10

9

August August August Gourmet Island Gourmet Island On Dirk's Escape Escape Dinner Plate Long Table Lunch

Carnarvon

9

August BBQ on the Beach

10

August Long Table Lunch

11

August Gascoyne Growers Market

Exmouth

12

Mount Augustus

18

August September Mantaray's Australia's Novotel Resort Biggest BBQ Dinner

MORE INFORMATION For more information about Yagan Square go to: www.mra.wa.gov.au/projects-and-places/yagan-square To join the e-news please email admin@gascoynefood.com.au Learn more and follow us: gascoynefood.com.au GascoyneFoodCouncil

@gascoynefood

Fresh from Carnarvon

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Capturing Gascoyne Food Photos | simplydesigned

Extensive photo project underway in Carnarvon

T

he Gascoyne Food Council has commissioned local photographer Anton Blume of simplydesigned to capture images of its food producers and their produce over the summer.

Despite some long days and very hot conditions, the project has so far yielded over 4500 raw images and 500 edited images to be saved in a new image library.

Anton is well-known in the region and has been ably supported by Artist in Residence Sue Helmot and local student Daniel Smith. Both of whom have learnt a great deal from the experience.

As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words and in an increasingly visual marketplace, the images are of great value to the region. Not only to the individual businesses, but to enhance the capacity for promotion of the region as a whole. Images will be used for posters, press articles, social media, website, presentations and much more.

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Lucky timing also enabled the crew to capture some incredible images and footage of the recent Gascoyne River flow thanks to Cyclone Joyce.

BY GEORGIA THOMAS GASCOYNE FOOD COUNCIL MORE INFORMATION The opportunity to participate in the project was promoted through the Gascoyne Food Council’s e-news and social media. However, if you missed the chance and want to be involved, please get in touch with Doriana on admin@gascoynefood.com.au to go on the list for the next opportunity. @gascoynefood GascoyneFoodCouncil www.gascoynefood.com.au

High cation exchange capacity Retains nutrients in the root zone

Calcium Bentonite Clay Increases soil moisture retention Locally sourced, stable, inorganic product

0418 140 929

BentoniteWA

info@bentonitewa.com.au

WA Growerwww.bentonitewa.com.au AUTUMN 2018 51

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33CARNARVON Grower’s Association Recognised Biosecurity Group spray program.

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33STERILE release machine.

Carnarvon

Medfly eradication project continues

M

editerranean fruit fly (Medfly) is a serious horticultural pest in Western Australia, attacking a range both cultivated fruits and some fruiting vegetables.

The Carnarvon Mediterranean fruit fly (Medfly) eradication project started in 2014 and is working towards the eradication of Medfly from the isolated Carnarvon horticulture area. The Carnarvon fruit and vegetable industry is currently worth $80–100 million per year (farm-gate value) to the state’s economy and this area is planned to double in the next five years.

Carnarvon is 1000km from Perth and surrounded by arid lands without fruit fly hosts, making it a perfect site for eradication of the pest.

Key benefits of eradicating Medfly include lower grower costs and improved market access both nationally and internationally.

The Carnarvon Medfly eradication project is being used as a pilot to demonstrate the level of industry and community commitment required for such projects to be successful.

It will provide a useful model for developing Fruit Fly Free Areas or areas of Low Pest Prevalence in other parts of Western Australia and Australia.

The project aims to achieve eradication through methods such as Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), baiting, improved orchard hygiene and community education initiatives.

Up to five million sterile male flies are being released per week in Carnarvon via a, state-of-the-art ground-based fly release machine. The high number of sterile male flies overwhelms the wild male Medfly population, making it extremely difficult for them to mate and so causes population crashes through infertile mating. In addition, the project collaborates with the Carnarvon Grower’s Association Recognised Biosecurity Group (CGA RBG) that run a grower funded fruit fly baiting program which reduces numbers of wild flies before sterile fly release.

To monitor the success of the sterile Medfly release and baiting programs, an array of traps were set up in 2015 in both the Carnarvon horticultural and residential areas. There are 125 traps that are checked weekly during the summer months and fortnightly during cooler months. Trapping allows areas of high Medfly prevalence, or “Hotspots”, to be highlighted. If Hotspots are identified, the project team work with the surrounding growers to assist them in improving their crop protection and hygiene methods.

Overripe capsicums have always been known to be a host of medfly in Carnarvon.

However, the monitoring traps have identified chillies to be an important host and the cause of a number of large infestations. In most instances Medfly is not an issue during the growing season of these crops if insecticides are sprayed.

Infestations most commonly occur at the end of the season when crops may be left as people go on holiday or if the value of the produce drops. It is critical that these unwanted crops are ploughed in so they will not continue breeding Medfly over summer.

In November 2017, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Compliance Inspectors joined the project team to boost the eradication effort. The Compliance Inspectors visit properties in Carnarvon to verify that growers and residents are using effective measures to control Medfly. If this is not occurring, inspectors will issue a Pest Control Notice which requires adequate measures to be taken. If DPIRD is required to step in and take remedial action, it will be at the cost of the landholder.

The project team are confident everyone in the community will want to do the right thing and play their part in this eradication effort. The on the ground eradication effort

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“All landholders in Carnarvon need to control Medfly on their properties, and this can be achieved through good orchard or backyard hygiene, baiting and trapping.” Mr Foxley said.

“We need to work with landholders to ensure they comply with the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 and share the responsibility of protecting Western Australia’s valuable agriculture industries.

Overall, more residents need to be aware that DPIRD can inspect any landholder thought to be harbouring Medfly and issue a Pest Control Notice if necessary, which requests by law that specific Medfly control measures be applied.”

33LEFT: Growers and town residents must keep on top of hygiene and control methods.

33RIGHT: 600 free traps and Magnet™ MEDs have been given out so far.

is going hand in hand with an intensive community engagement program to encourage all Carnarvon residents to take action and control Medflies on their properties. Further afield, the project team attend community events such as the Perth Caravan and Camping Show and the Perth Garden Festival to encourage anyone travelling to Carnarvon to not bring fruit that could potentially contain fruit fly larvae with them.

Project team members are now a familiar sight in Carnarvon and checking the Medfly Hotspot map displayed in the CGA has become part of many grower’s routines. This Medfly Hotspot map divides Carnarvon into eight areas and displays the average Medfly trapping results for each of these areas, thus alerting growers to any Medfly population spikes so they can take additional control action.

The project has also assisted Carnarvon town residents in managing Medfly in their backyards by running a free Medfly trap giveaway program. In addition, growers were offered a free sample of Magnet™ MEDs, a fruit fly attract and kill device that can be used on both organic and conventional properties.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

This has been a success with over 600 free traps and Magnet™ MEDs given out so far and a decrease in Medfly populations within the town area.

Over 1.3 billion sterile male Medfly have been bred in the South Perth Sterile Medfly production facility and sent to Carnarvon for release since January 2017.

The successful release of this large volume of sterile Medfly coupled with an increase in the size of the CGA RBG Medfly baiting program has resulted in the lowest average Medfly populations in three years of monitoring, particularly over the winter period.

The summer months are typically the toughest for fruit fly control due to an abundance of fruiting fruit fly host species, such as mangoes and grapes. In spite of this, the project has continued to maintain low numbers, with 84% of Carnarvon plantations showing lower Medfly numbers in January 2018 compared to January 2017.

The project’s next step is raising awareness within the Carnarvon community and providing advice allowing for growers and town residents to keep on top of hygiene and control methods. Ian Foxley, Executive Officer of the CGA RBG said that more Carnarvon residents need to be aware of how the requirements of the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 affect them.

i

Medfly

is one of the world’s most damaging pests It can devastate crops and limit access to both national and international markets. Although they are usually associated with fruit production, Medfly can impact certain fruiting vegetables such as chillies, capsicums and sometimes tomatoes.

Although tomatoes are a poor host for Medfly, if the crop comes from an area of high Medfly prevalence, they need post-harvest disinfestation to gain market access.

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Department technical officer Brett Renton said total eradication of Medfly in Carnarvon is best going to be achieved in the cooler months.

“During winter, host fruits such as mangoes and grapes are not fruiting, which reduces the opportunity for Medfly to breed,” Mr Renton said.

“A productive citrus tree can produce far more fruit than required, with unwanted ripened fruit attracting Medflies,” he said.

“As the temperatures rise during spring, the sheltering Medflies start to emerge and move to other host fruit and vegetables.

“Citrus owners in Carnarvon

“Therefore during winter when are advised to prune there are limited hosts to their trees to reduce support the Medfly lifecycle, yield and remove and the population can drop STERILE MALE MEDFLY HAVE significantly, however if there destroy infested fruits, BEEN BRED & RELEASED are just a few unmanaged preventing the further fruit trees, Medfly can survive SINCE JANUARY 2017. development of eggs and breed. One of the main and larvae and emerging hosts of Medfly during these fruit flies.” cooler months is citrus, which provides food for the maggots and shelter The greatest chance of eradicating Medfly for the adult flies.” is during winter and so effective Medfly

1.3 BILLION

Mr Renton said citrus trees were common in backyards and on plantations throughout Carnarvon, and they were often unmanaged, providing the perfect environment to support fruit fly during winter.

The Carnarvon Medfly eradication project is part of the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Boosting Biosecurity Project made possible by Royalties for Regions with additional funding from the Carnarvon Growers Association and Hort Innovation. Hort Innovation funding is from research and development levies and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not for profit research and Development Corporation for Australian horticulture. The project will run to December 2018.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Brett Renton, DPIRD, (0484 601 694 or brett.renton@dpird.wa.gov.au) or Ian Foxley (0418 353 171 or rbg@cga.org.au) for more information.

control activities include installing a fruit fly trap, picking unwanted fruit from the tree, and collecting and disposing of fallen fruit from the ground by placing it in a bag and leaving it in the sun for a few days.

These activities must be employed during this time.

We understand that producers working in the horticulture sector face a unique set of challenges, which often present opportunities. You need to adapt to rapidly changing weather conditions, crop development, emerging technologies, price fluctuations and varying global economic conditions.

To find out more about Rural Bank’s range of specialist farm finance products and services, contact Stephen Fidge, Gingin Community Bank Manager on 08 8575 1560 or Agribusiness Relationship Manager, Garry Harvey on 0437 393 910.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited, The Bendigo Centre, Bendigo, VIC 3550. ABN 11 068 049 178 AFSL 237879. Product issued by Rural Bank Limited, ABN 74 083 938 416 AFSL 238042 and distributed by Bendigo Bank. Before making any investment decision you should consider your situation and read the relevant Terms and Conditions available at www.bendigobank.com.au or from any Bendigo Bank branch. S52792_4 (376628_v1) (7/11/2017)

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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Grower profile

D avid & Monica Radomiljac

BY MORENA PERDEC POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION OF WA INC

40

years ago David left school to grow potatoes on the family farm. The following is a snapshot of the business that he and his wife Monica have since built.

Diversification has worked well for them and with the new skills the next generation are bringing into the business the future looks bright!

When did you become a farmer?

David feels like he was born into it! David and his siblings all grew up working on the farm, and it felt natural for him to continue this life.

What is your first memory of being on the farm?

Like most farm kids, David recalls earning pocket money by picking rocks and sticks to clear the land from a very young age. In David’s early childhood the Radomiljac’s kept a herd of dairy cows, so David has fond memories of milking Friesians and Guernseys with his mother.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

PERTH PEMBERTON

Farmer David & Monica Radomiljac Location Pemberton Size 500 acres Enterprises Pemberley produces wine grapes, potatoes, beef cattle, marron & truffles

YOUR INDUSTRY

How long has your family been in the region?

David’s parents, grandparents and greatgrandparents the Phillips, Stirling and Radomiljac families have been involved in the production of crops from tobacco, potatoes, through fruit and vegetables into wine grapes today in the Manjimup/ Pemberton area since the 1920s. David began working for the family as a farmer full time at 15 years of age.

David and Monica took over the land that is now Pemberley of Pemberton in 1995.

What types of agriculture do you have on the farm (apart from potatoes)?

Pemberley have undertaken intensive horticulture and mixed agriculture over the decades producing peas, beans, pumpkins, cauliflower, broccoli, dairy, beef cattle, marron, grapes and in the future truffles.

Currently, Pemberley produces wine grapes, potatoes, beef cattle, marron, truffles and are registered breeders for chocolate Labrador puppies. Pemberley grow nine varieties of grapes which are then made into ten different wines sold under the Pemberley brand, as well as supplying grapes to other WA wineries.

Do you see potatoes as part of your crop mix going forward?

WITH THE NEW SKILLS THE NEXT GENERATION ARE BRINGING INTO THE BUSINESS THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT!

Potatoes have proven to be a stable part of Pemberley’s farm enterprise. Potatoes fit in to the primary production schedule very well, they allow us to diversify our farming portfolio to create a stable yearly income.

Although the business acknowledges the difficulties and uncertainties in the market fluctuations, the plan is to continue growing potatoes while they still have the skills, know-how and infrastructure.

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YOUR INDUSTRY

How do you evaluate the importance of keeping diversity of crops and animals?

Pemberley value diversity between industries, crops and animals very highly as it allows us to keep our workforce and property occupied all year-round. They find that the cattle, potatoes, wine grapes and truffles allow an even stream of income and help them to make better use of the land. Diversifying products protects them from the vagaries of the markets.

recorded could have solved the entire world’s problem from the spud harvester.

Our second son, Tyler, with Bachelor degrees in Engineering and Commerce from UWA, took charge of the books and has helped to move our accounting system to a more modern online-based program.

These technologies help to smooth the way we run the farm, and allow us time to be more proactive rather than reactive.

These technologies usually have high

Who is working on your farm?

Pemberley employ two full-time staff, some part-time and many casuals seasonally.

3. Support from Industry Experts — The information and education available from Agronomists and industry bodies allows us to improve what we do and feel confident to supply quality product to the market.

What do you see on the horizon for the Potato Industry?

Do you run your farm today in a different way than you did five years ago?

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Who has been your greatest influence on you and your business?

2. Family tradition — We’re here because of the hard work my parents put into the farm initially, and we hope that the next generation will continue this into the future.

Across the year, the business employs around 150 seasonal workers to maintain the vines and harvest the grapes.

Pemberley harvested the 2018 ware crop in the coolest part of the day at dawn. The 2.30am starts resulting in some interesting early-morning conversations that if

Climate and economy always make all farming a challenge. Staffing can also be problematic; the fluctuating numbers of workers required seasonally and the sometimes long hours day and night during harvest can put pressure on full time staff as well.

1. The changing and evolving market — as a business we need to consider the market first and foremost. We need to produce the quality and variety that the market desires.

Recently our eldest son Jordan returned to work in the business. Jordan moved to University in Perth and Melbourne to expand his understandings of viticulture by undertaking a Viticulture Degree and now enjoys applying his specialist knowledge to the farm. Ali, Tyler and Harley have all followed to further study, each moving to Perth to complete tertiary studies, but all come back to the farm during the holidays to pitch in.

As a business we’re really lucky that in recent years, our children have developed an interest in returning to the farm to help to run the business. It has really become a family affair, with each of our sons working during their university holidays, and with our eldest, Jordan, moving back to the farm full time. The next generation are full of innovative ideas that are changing the way we’re looking forward — pitching new technologies that we can implement or ways to diversify our portfolio of crops. We’ve found that the new generation, being digital natives, are much more technologically-literate and able to enhance our innovation. Examples include our newly installed automated irrigation towers, assistive farming computer programs and data compiling and analysis to assess production and pricing trends.

As you look back on the years, what has been your biggest obstacle?

We hope that the potato industry will still be strong, we’re excited to be a part of the great network of new generation producers here in Western Australia.

33JORDAN on the farm.

implementation costs and take many hours to iron out the kinks, but we can see the value of these long term.

Tyler’s Honours project in Preventive Maintenance has application in the way machinery is operated these days.

Another long-term goal is the reduction of carbon-costs at Pemberley so that we can operate in a more sustainable manner. We hope to install more solar panels, energy storage, improve our recycling systems and focus on the general reduction of use of fossil-fuels. We’re excited by the focus on sustainability in technology development and are eagerly watching for suitable technology that is appropriate to implement into our practices.

We need to improve and promote the consumer’s understanding of the farming process and what it takes to get produce from paddock to plate, which will hopefully result in more money per kilo to the farmer.

The public will hopefully support niche growers in niche markets and we look forward to the development of secondary production in a specialised way that can support the growers of potatoes in WA. Whilst every season throws up its own difficulties and challenges it also continues to provide opportunities to develop better ways to improve the quality of produce via the input of researchers, agronomist and industry support.

What is farming apart from hard work with a lot of hope and some good luck?

MORE INFORMATION Morena Perdec WA Potatoes on (08) 9481 0834 or morena@wapotatoes.com.au

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S5000 SPRINKLERS l Perfect sprinkler for vegetables l Stainless steel spring and high quality movement l Extremely robust - keeps performing season after season l Easy to hook up - ½” and ¾” base available

1800 558 009 (Aus) / +61 7 3881 4071 (intl.) www.Rivulis.com.au | www.Rivulis.co.nz

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to

BY ANDREW TAYLOR AND PETER DAWSON DEPARTMENT PRIMARY INDUSTRIES & REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

33VARIETY trial in Egypt conducted amongst a commercial crop.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

33SIMON Moltoni discussing production practices with members of the Egyptian potato industry.

YOUR INDUSTRY

s e m o c t u O & nex t steps

C

an seed potatoes from Western Australia benefit Egyptian potato growers and can WA seed growers make money in this trade?

To answer these questions Mr Simon Moltoni, EO WA Potatoes, three seed potato growers and exporters; Mr Aaron Chapman of WA Elite Seed, Mr Patrick Fox of Fox Farming, Mr Kon Peos of Southern Packers plus Mr Andrew Taylor of DPIRD and Mr Aziz Saba from the WA Trade Office in Dubai visited Egypt last December.

Meetings with government officials and industry players provided information about the supply chain and regulations affecting this market. Field visits enabled us to gain perspective into some of the production practices and constraints facing Egyptian potato growers.

What we learnt • The Egyptian potato market is big; in 2014 they produced 4.6 million tonnes of potatoes. Australia produced 1.3 million tonnes in the same period.

• Egypt production begins with importing European seed potatoes, predominantly from Scotland, in November and December. These are planted between

Potato production in 2014: Egypt

4.6mt

33INFRASTRUCTURE in the Egyptian supply chain is state of the art with high capacity due to the volumes produced.

January and February and harvested in May. The smalls from this harvest are kept in cool store for planting in September for a second crop harvested in April. Ware potatoes from this second crop are exported back to the European Union. Other large export markets include Russia. January planted crops yield 27t/ha but yield drops to just a third in the second planting in September. Yield constraints will include viruses, sunlight hours, bacterial wilt and irrigation inefficiency.

Australia

1.3mt

Challenges for WA seed WA is a higher cost producer of seed potatoes compared with Europe, so Egyptian buyers need to be attracted by other benefits of WA seed such as its pest and disease freedom, ideal physiological age for the September planting plus learning from WA’s expertise in growing potatoes in warm sandy areas.

Only 132 registered varieties are allowed to be propagated in Egypt and most are not grown in WA. For registration, a variety must be field trialled in Egypt for at least two cropping seasons. Therefore market development won’t occur rapidly.

• Bacterial wilt has created market access problems for the Egyptian industry.

European import bans have been Future directions placed on Egyptian potatoes from time We feel the Egyptian market is worth to time due to detections of bacterial pursuing. A delegation of Egyptian potato wilt in shipments and production industry representatives will visit WA in areas. Extensive surveillance and 2018 to observe how WA production testing regimes have now been systems operate. implemented to assure export markets that Egyptian To obtain Egyptian market potatoes are free from access discussions have to bacterial wilt. Production occur at the federal level REGISTERED POTATO VARIETIES has also moved to virgin through the Department soil outside the traditional of Agriculture and Water ARE ALLOWED TO BE growing regions.

Resources (DAWR).

ONLY 132

Opportunities for WA seed

PROPAGATED IN EGYPT

The September planting is the largest crop in Egypt and is particularly popular for the home made French fry market. This planting window fits ideally with WA seed supply by allowing growers to harvest, cure and ship seed that is of optimum physiological age when it arrives in Egypt.

WA is free from bacterial wilt and a number of other pest and diseases of concern for Egyptian potato growers and officials. WA’s freedom from bacterial wilt assures the Egyptian potato industry they will not introduce bacterial wilt into their virgin production areas when using WA seed potatoes.

We need to demonstrate the performance of WA seed in a September planting in Egypt.

Acknowledgements The travel is a component of an Industry Grant for International Competitiveness with support from the Potato Growers Association. DPIRD provided in-kind support for Andrew Taylor’s time.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Simon Moltoni WA Potatoes on (08) 9481 0834 or simon@wapotatoes.com.au

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Water work underway to support Peel food zone 33THE coil sends an electromagnetic pulse into the ground and records the return signal.

"Managed aquifer recharge is a strategic option that could provide climateindependent long-term, high volume water storage for future needs.

Water Minister Dave Kelly

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

YOUR INDUSTRY

33PREPARING the equipment for the survey at Nambeelup.

BY PETER COLLINS DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION

A

420km2 airborne electromagnetic survey has been flown over the proposed Peel Food Zone to provide new and detailed information on potential water resources for the Transform Peel project.

Transform Peel is a development program centred in Nambeelup in the Murray Shire and delivered by the Peel Development Commission. It comprises three integrated, strategic elements: a 42,000ha Peel Food Zone, a 1,000ha Peel Business Park and the Peel Integrated Water Initiative.

The Peel Integrated Water Initiative is co-ordinated by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation in collaboration with CSIRO and the Peel Development Commission.

The $2.35 million Peel Integrated Water Initiative is tasked with developing integrated water management across the food zone including reducing nutrient flows from across the program area by 50% to protect the Peel and Harvey estuary.

Water will also be required for the Business Park and agri-innovation precinct, which will focus on the attraction of food manufacturing and processing industries, logistics enterprises and supporting commercial and light industrial activities.

The airborne survey took three days and involved a helicopter suspending a large coil about 30 metres above the ground, with the coil sending an electromagnetic pulse into the ground and recording the return signal.

"Airborne electromagnetic surveys are increasingly used to conduct geophysical surveys as large areas can be covered in days as opposed to weeks or months using ground-based techniques,” Water Minister Dave Kelly said.

"This work will contribute valuable information on groundwater quality and availability in the region, and improve our understanding of how the groundwater system works.

"The models developed through this survey are an important part of ensuring sustainable management of water, both for the environment and for the economic growth created by the Peel Food Zone."

This provides information about the geological properties of the groundwater system, groundwater salinity and the location of the saltwaterfreshwater interface.

Regional Development and Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said reliable, detailed water information will help to bring investment in intensive agricultural projects to the Peel region and help us to drive sustainable, longterm jobs in agriculture.

The data is then used to help assess the quality of the groundwater, and help model the potential impacts of future groundwater abstraction on existing users and water dependent ecosystems.

"The Peel Food Zone presents real economic opportunities for the region and this survey is an important step towards ensuring the fundamentals are in place to support growth and job creation,” she said.

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THE AQUIFER RECHARGE STUDY IS EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED

BY MARCH 2018

The managed aquifer recharge study is expected to be completed by March 2018, after which the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation will have an indication of the approximate amount of water that can be stored in the aquifer, how long it can be stored for and the level of treatment the water will be required to go through before being injected into the aquifer.

Airborne survey data will be analysed and combined with other data from the study area, to form a virtual model of the groundwater system. A full set of results from the study is expected in November 2018.

This investigation follows the commencement in September 2017 of a study to determine if recharging aquifers with stormwater could help secure long-term water supplies for intensive agriculture the Peel Food Zone and adjacent Peel Business Park.

"To grow sustainable agriculture jobs and opportunities in the Peel region, we need to be innovative in finding water management options to respond to the impacts of climate change,” Minister Kelly said.

MORE INFORMATION For more information please visit the website www.dwer.wa.gov.au.

Is this a good look for your industry?

Burn or bury those

emical waste!

. not your ch .. g in cl cy re n o s e d ld attitu

o

You can’t ignore it any more, most QA programs require responsible waste management.

On our websites you can locate your nearest drumMUSTER collection site with an interactive map. You can also find out the status of the next ChemClear collection in each state. It’s quick and simple. Contact your WA consultant, Graeme Passmore: 0429 933 307 1800 008 707 | www.drummuster.org.au 1800 008 182 | www.chemclear.org.au

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Western Australian

Horticulture Update 2018 Save the date

Crown Convention Centre Thursday

August

Friday

August

16 17 For any queries, please contact

kirrily.palmer@dpird.wa.gov.au Full program coming soon at www.agric.wa.gov.au/hortupdate2018

YOUR INDUSTRY

Potato grower STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN 2017-2021 AT A GLANCE POTENTIAL IMPACT OF THIS PLAN

34.6

$

OUTCOMES

STRATEGIES

Average yields have improved resulting in reduced cost of production

Run subject-specific professional development workshops for consulting agronomists (jointly with processing program)

Million

Integrate precision ag, integrated pest management (IPM) and soil health as core elements of the potato extension program

Based on an estimated investment of $4.96 million over the next five years OUTCOMES

STRATEGIES

Industry profitability is improved by increasing the value of product sold on the domestic market

Collaborate with retailers to better understand the opportunities to build category value

Establish an appropriate prioritised regional extension program to address pest and disease challenges/threats Support industry-wide efforts to improve the performance of certified seed across the supply chain Increased innovation and agility in potato businesses has resulted in a sustainable industry that can adapt to highly dynamic markets

Build capability in servicing regional and niche market channel opportunities Develop new fresh potato product concepts Support development of higher value products Support R&D around improving waste-stream use

Export markets have grown resulting in increased average returns to growers

Leverage the potato extension program into establishing regional grower development groups

Improve industry engagement with a revised communication program Introduce an annual scholarship to support overseas study tours for young growers Introduce Next Gen leadership development program, including internships and scholarships for growers, farm managers, scientists and advisors (in collaboration with processing SIP)

Develop a five-year export market development strategy covering fresh, processing and seed potatoes

Develop an IT self-assessment benchmarking tool

Provide the necessary R&D support for priority market access and market improvement business cases

Develop an online knowledge database for growers that translates the latest research into practical information

Support exporter capability building and knowledge of prime prospect markets Establish improved intelligence for export markets

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POTATO GROWER STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN – 2017-2021

YOUR INDUSTRY

Potato grower

STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN 2017-2021 AT A GLANCE Major opportunities

Major challenges

y Development of new consumer products

y Negative health perceptions and declining consumption

y Leveraging ‘brand Australia’ product integrity in export markets

y Poor industry understanding of consumer needs

y Technology advances

y Lack of industry cohesion

y Targeted application of agronomy skills to suit the three potato markets – fresh, seed and processed

y High cost of production and supply chain costs

y Development of new (non-food) uses to achieve a greater return for waste and by-products

y Inconsistent seed quality across growing regions

y Market access restrictions in northern Asian markets

y Low adoption of available R&D on-farm y Inconsistent agronomic advice and lack of extension specialists

y Increased adoption of R&D, in particular precision agriculture

y Increasing imports (frozen) y Biosecurity risk and disease incursions

y Internationally recognised standard of seed.

y Pressure on water availability.

Potato industry size and production distribution

Potato supply chain and value 2014/15

NSW 8%

2014/15

VIC

21%

WA

5%

Production

1,332,769 tonnes $660.3 million

QLD 4% SA

38%

TAS

24%

Processing 848,126 tonnes; 64% Fresh supply 461,622 tonnes; 35% Fresh export 23,021 tonnes; <2%

2015/16 Approximately 880 growers

DISCLAIMER Any views contained in this abbreviated Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) do not necessarily represent the views of Hort Innovation or its commitment to a particular course of action or a guarantee of specific outcomes. The ability to deliver on all the articulated strategies (and investments) will be determined by the ability of the statutory levy to provide the resources to do so. For more information on Hort Innovation’s obligations, rights and responsibilities and a full disclaimer statement, refer to the full version of this SIP that is available on Hort Innovation’s website at www.horticulture.com.au.

COPYRIGHT © Copyright 2017 Hort Innovation

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Vegetable STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN 2017-2021 AT A GLANCE POTENTIAL IMPACT OF THIS PLAN

471.87

$

Million

Based on an estimated investment of $90.68 million over the next five years OUTCOMES

STRATEGIES

Increased demand and value of the domestic vegetable industry through improved grower knowledge of the market, product differentiation, increased food service revenue, improved food safety and increased consumer knowledge

Increase knowledge to better understand consumer trends and segments

OUTCOMES

STRATEGIES

Export markets grown through increased understanding of opportunities available, improved market access, improved export capabilities, improved reputation and competitive advantage

Facilitate a united representation of the vegetable industry to international markets Better understand the export opportunities available to the vegetable industry Improve market access in priority markets for vegetables Improve the export capability of Australian vegetable growers Improve and capitalise on the opportunities available for inbound and outbound trade linkages Improve and capitalise on the use of e-commerce to export produce to existing priority markets Capitalise on Australia’s geographic advantage to Asia and realise the export potential available in regional areas

Identify value-adding opportunities such as pre-cut and improved packaging to achieve price premiums Improve stakeholder education for vegetables such as the identification and extension of the health benefits associated with vegetables Increase the market share for vegetables in food service such as the identification of potential product offerings specific to the sector Support product differentiation that align with Australian consumer needs Improve food safety standards and traceability

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VEGETABLE STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN – 2017-2022

YOUR INDUSTRY

Vegetable

STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN 2017-2022 AT A GLANCE OUTCOMES

STRATEGIES

OUTCOMES

STRATEGIES

Increased farm productivity and decreased production costs through better utilisation of resources, adaptation to climate, reduced impact of pests and diseases and better utilisation of advanced technologies on the farm

Reduce on-farm food waste including alternative uses such as value-added foods and beverages, biofuels and nutraceuticals amongst others

Increased supply chain integration and development through improved supply chain management, development of collaborative models and partnerships

Improve supply chain integration and efficiencies

Improved capability of levy payers to adopt improved practices and new innovation through improved communication and extension programs, grower innovation support, professional development and workforce building programs, and through improved farm management and information systems

Improve the communication and extension of research outputs to address a geographically and culturally diverse vegetable industry

Reduce major production costs through initiatives such as precision agriculture Adapt and improve current protected cropping and intensive production technologies to the Australian environment Protect the vegetable industry from both endemic and exotic pests and diseases that significantly impact the industry Introduce new cultivars that have favourable production related traits such as resistance to pests and diseases, severe weather conditions and varieties that allow for automation Enhance the sustainability of the industry and to help growers prepare and mitigate against the cost of climate change Improve the use and management of soil and water â&#x20AC;&#x201C; critical inputs to commercial vegetable production

Improve the product quality along the supply chain with the aim to increase returns for growers Support collaboration between growers and stakeholders along the supply chain to improve its efficiency

Support innovation that advance and grow the vegetable industry Improve grower skills in all areas associated with commercial vegetable production Improve farm management practices and systems to assist growers in efficient and effective decision making Build skills in the vegetable industry workforce and attract new people to the industry

Increase use of advanced technologies to improve farm productivity and/or reduce input costs for growers

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Vegetable

STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN 2017-2022 AT A GLANCE Major opportunities

Major challenges

y Seasonal opportunities for export markets (southern hemisphere location)

y Environmental, pest and disease factors

y Close proximity to large and growing Asian markets y Reputation for quality processes and standards

y Competition from imports, particularly from low-cost countries

y Export of premium quality fresh vegetables into new markets

y Economic factors and increased global competition

y Production capacity across diverse regions

y High production costs

y Increasing consumer aspirations for healthy eating

y Lower farmgate margins

y Increasing investment in new and innovative technologies

y Insufficient and rising cost of labour

y Increasing supply chain and industry integration and collaboration

y Slowing of productivity growth

y Adoption of consumer insights and use in business decision making

y Limited uptake of industry knowledge and transfer of innovation

y Better exploitation of the significant investment in R&D.

y Adoption of best-practice management models.

Industry size and production distribution

Vegetable* supply chain and value 2015/16

y Wide climatic variability and biosecurity risks

y Impediments to exports such as trade barriers

NSW 13% 2014/15

Approx. 1,676 VG levy paying businesses

VIC

23%

WA

13%

QLD 22% SA

13%

TAS

15%

(Calculated from data in Ashton D., and Weragoda A., 2017, Australian vegetable growing farms: an economic survey, 2014–15 and 2015–16, ABARES research report 17.1, Canberra, February. CC BY 3.0)

Production

3,567,262 tonnes $3,804 million

Processing 1,284,263 tonnes; 36% Fresh supply 2,073,501 tonnes; 58% Fresh export 209,498 tonnes; 6% * All vegetables including non-vegetable levy paying vegetables

Source: Australian Horticulture Statistics Handbook 2015/16

DISCLAIMER Any views contained in this abbreviated Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) do not necessarily represent the views of Hort Innovation or its commitment to a particular course of action or a guarantee of specific outcomes. The ability to deliver on all the articulated strategies (and investments) will be determined by the ability of the statutory levy to provide the resources to do so. For more information on Hort Innovation’s obligations, rights and responsibilities and a full disclaimer statement, refer to the full version of this SIP that is available on Hort Innovation’s website at www.horticulture.com.au.

COPYRIGHT © Copyright 2017 Hort Innovation

horticulture.com.au

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VEGETABLE STRATEGIC INVESTMENT PLAN – 2017-2022

POMEWEST

pomewest Pomewest WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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contacts From the Pomewest

Pomewest Committee and Officers Harvey Giblett, Chair e: newtonbros@wn.com.au Mario Casotti

e: mario@casottigroup.com

Wayne Ghilarducci e: strathspey@modnet.com.au Jason Jarvis

e: twinpack@bigpond.com

Sam Licciardello

e: sam@orchard1sixty.com.au

Mark Scott

e: markpscott@bigpond.com

Susie Murphy White, Project Manager e: susan.murphy-white@agric.wa.gov.au Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager e: nardia@fruitwest.org.au

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BY NARDIA STACY EXECUTIVE MANAGER, POMEWEST

appy 2018 New Year! I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Christmas period and we look now to a prosperous new season.

Natalie Gallagher, Executive Assistant e: natalie.gallagher@dpird.wa.gov.au

APC–Pomewest FFS Income 2017–18

Market Access Project

50,000

Annual Meetings & Communications

14,500

Medfly Surveillance Trapping Network (Ashmere Consulting)

60,000

I thank the 35 growers who supported the recent Pome Grower Summit in Bunbury last month. Planning an appropriate date for this type of event is always a little difficult. With factors such as harvest and timing of presenting current activities to be considered we don’t always find an ideal window in the calendar. However, I believe there will be other opportunities to repeat a similar event later in the year to update and open discussion on industry matters. Bunbury will remain the likely location to ensure the best way to encourage attendance, collaboration and networking. The February Summit was a great success and all the feedback suggested this format was a good way to get the industry together.

Codling Moth (DPIRD)

35,000

Staff Update

Maturity Standards Legislation and Compliance

45,000

Industry Sponsorships and Association Memberships

12,500

Promotion & Publicity Local Project (Fresh Finesse)

24,000

Project General Account Budget Biosecurity Account Budget

$ 450,000 60,000

APC-Pomewest major projects 2017–18 Project Commercialisation for WA (FW Co-operative Ltd)

$ 120,000

Note less 50% salary reimbursed for professional services of Nardia Stacy as executive officer as in 16–17 financial year.

New Technology Project (Susie Murphy White)

52,000

Study Tour to NZ

31,000

Flavonoid Project

40,000

Administration APC Administration Charge

148,060 45,000

APC fee for service charge

POME FRUIT effective from 1 January 2015

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Executive Mana

Type of fruit

$/kg

Fresh fruit — apples, pears, Nashi, other

0.015

Processing fruit

0.005

Biosecurity FFS for fresh fruit

0.002

Biosecurity FFS for processing fruit

0.001

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

We have the pleasure of welcoming Natalie Gallagher to Pomewest.

Natalie is extensively skilled in client liaison, communications and office administration. Natalie was introduced to the industry at the recent Pome Growers Summit and offers the industry a fresh perspective and enthusiasm to the industry especially being able to tap into her unbiased eye of the consumer.

Natalie’s role will be to assist my role as manager and assist with the daily running of business.

Season Update from Susie Murphy White The pome fruit season is off to a good start with some really nicely coloured, good sized Galas just waiting to be

picked. At the time of writing this most growers are waiting another week so the maturity is just right and our consumers get the best eating experience of new season WA grown apples. Most trees are looking very clean with the fruit sizing up above average. Some varieties have suffered from sunburn this year even though we’ve had a very mild summer, they just haven’t had to toughen up during a heat wave yet.

Crop estimates have been collected for the fourth year from a select grower panel in WA. The 2018 pome fruit estimates indicate that the apple crop has set light after a low chill winter and wet spring, but thinning strategies have been effective. This will mean WA will see some really good sized fruit, the number of apples may be a bit less but tonnages should be just under last year.

The fruit size data from the group of growers monitoring fruit size shows that growth rates of Pink Lady, Fuji, Granny Smith and Gala’s are all well above average this year and all varieties will be of good size.

Industry Updates Maturity Standards With new season fruit to the market this month, Pomewest continues to negotiate with the Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development (DPIRD) to legislate our proposed Maturity Standards under Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act). This is an ongoing industry led endeavour, to improve quality experiences for WA apple eaters

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Buy West Eat Best

ager 33THE pome fruit season is off to a good start with some really nicely coloured, good sized Galas just waiting to be picked.

and in turn create increased demand. At this stage progression is slow, however, we will undertake to report our progress as soon as possible.

In the meantime, quality testing has commenced for Royal Gala with the appointment of Total Quality Assurance Systems checking fruit across wholesale and retail markets. So far the majority of producers are adhering to the standards with a minority of growers and marketers still selling immature fruit to take advantage of early market pricing opportunities. We ask again that you resist the temptation to follow this practise as it is to the detriment to offering consumers quality fruit at all times and unfair to growers doing the right thing and waiting for maturities before picking. We will endeavour to send individual businesses reports of the testing results as they are collated during the season.

WA Pome Industry Summit A WA Pome Industry Summit, sponsored

by Pomewest, took place on 7 February in Bunbury at the Mercure Bunbury Sanctuary Golf Resort, Bunbury between 3.00–6.30pm. The program included three presentations on the recent NZ study trip, Market Access Project and Promotions Update. There was also the opportunity to discuss future project aspirations and goals. More details in the following article in this WA Grower edition and copies of the presentations are available on our website http://pomewest.net.au.

As discussed at the recent Summit, Pomewest has re-instated its membership with By West Eat Best.

We are looking into a collaboration to improve ‘Grown in WA’ opportunities to increase demand. There may be opportunities for WA horticulture industries to come together to increase consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables including school programs and crosspromotional activities.

The 64th Donnybrook Easter Apple Festival 31 March – 1 April 2018 Pomewest are sponsoring an apple promotion at the upcoming festival over the Easter Break. Pomewest will be looking to promote apples and draw focus back to the original concept of the show — Apples by supporting the region and the importance of the grower. There are a few ideas kicking around on the best activity to raise awareness all will be reported in the next edition of the WA Grower.

Q Fly Detection — Fremantle January 2018

Hort Connections 2018 Brisbane June 18–20

Pomewest are continuing to work with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development on the latest outbreak which was reported to industry in late January. It is important to keep your email contacts current with us as this is the way we can communicate biosecurity incidents and other major events to you quickly and accurately. We are sending you weekly updates on the situation but on the whole seems (at the moment) to be less invasive as the Alfred Cove incident in 2016.

This is an opportunity at a National level for you to improve your knowledge on marketing trends, production and industry updates as well as bringing together the largest number of growers, supply chain members, government stakeholders and industry service providers in the Australian horticulture industry.

So far the fly has only been detected in a residential area and there have been no detections in any commercial fruit or vegetable production areas.

WA’s area freedom has been suspended for susceptible hosts within a 15km radius of the outbreak area. To prevent the spread host fruit cannot be exported from within the suspension area, which includes the Canning Vale Markets, without treatment or other approved protocol.

WA’s area freedom from Q fly, which underpins market access for a range of produce, does remain in place for the remainder of the State.

Hort Connections 2017 built on the success of the two previous events run by AUSVEG and PMA A-NZ, incorporating world-class speakers, an expansive Trade Show and unparalleled networking opportunities.

In 2018 APAL are back, involved and supporting the event with Monday 18th June being the day allocated to activities and presentations for Apple and Pear delegates. This will include a program on speed updating with growing techniques, along with presenting new varieties, marketing strategies and an opportunity to bring a national focus to our industry.

HORT CONNECTIONS 2018 BRISBANE JUNE 18–20

Upcoming events 2018 New Season — means new social media opportunities The new season provides opportunities for great stories, videos and photos to share on our social media Facebook and Instagram pages. To assist us with relevant and regional news please send in any material to assist you promote your business and the apple and pear industry as a whole. This is the easiest and cost effective way to bring awareness of the excitement to the category which benefits everyone.

Pomewest encourages your attendance at this event. Please contact me if you are interested in attending as we may be offering sponsorship for growers to attend. More details will be provided shortly through our email contact communications.

Finally, we are always looking to improve our communications and services to you.

This includes how we can better engage with all growing regions. I encourage you to contact myself, staff or committee members at any time. This way, we can provide better engagement with you. We will take on board any feedback or suggestions on how we can improve your FFS benefits and look to assist us to choose projects relevant to build and progress the industry.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Nardia Stacy on (08) 9368 3869 or nardia@pomewest.net.au

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Biting a BRAVO™ apple

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led to Southern Forests adventure for Queensland farmers

iana Walsh’s family of five have enjoyed a genuinely amazing holiday to the Southern Forests region in Western Australia after winning BRAVO™’s Bite Your BRAVO™ photo competition in 2017.

Run on social media, the competition was created to help promote the Australian grown and bred apple during its second commercial season. The prize was a trip for two to stay at the stunning Foragers Field Kitchen and Cooking School in the heart of Western Australia’s apple country, and the birthplace of BRAVO™, to which the couple gladly decided to bring along their boys, aged 5, 8 and 10, to enjoy.

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Photos | Sophie Brockmann

33THE Walsh family tour Lyster Orchard to see how the next season of BRAVO™ apples are progressing.

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BRAVO™ apple history In 1992, John Cripps, crossed two apple varieties — Cripps Red and Royal Gala — which bore a number of seedlings. Over the next twenty years, the Department of Agriculture and Food, as part of the Australian National Apple Breeding Program, developed and further tested these apple trees and their fruit. It was quite apparent through this time that the program had something like no other apple, in the fruit of ANABP 01 variety from which we get the BRAVO™ branded apple.

Interest in the new variety and its distinctive fruit peaked interest from local Western Australian growers, as well as growers from the eastern states.

The winning photo was selected unanimously by the judges, featuring one of the family’s three boys enjoying a BRAVO™ on their cane farming property in Mackay, Queensland.

“My inspiration for the photo came when I was thinking of a way to take a photo of the apples, I saw my youngest son playing in his red cart I thought....APPLE CART!

“We love the unique colour and taste of the BRAVO™ apple, but as farmers ourselves we appreciate the hard work that has gone into such a unique breed of fruit,” said Liana.

ANABP 01 was released to commercial orchards in Australia in 2014 through a commercialisation arrangement with Fruit West Co-operative Limited.

In 2016, BRAVO™ branded apples debuted on premium retailers' shelves in Western Australia and New South Wales.

BRAVO™ apples have a distinct sweetness, are crisp and crunchy, and have a striking dark burgundy colour like no other apple in the Australian market. BRAVO™ has been embraced by growers, retailers and consumers alike, as an exciting new choice for apple lovers.

MORE INFORMATION For further information Genuinely Extraordinary Southern Forests Food & Farm Experience tours contact: Bevan Eatts, SFFC Executive Chairman t: 0419 811 823 e: bevan@southernforestsfood.com For further information on BRAVO™ contact: Nardia Stacy, Executive Officer t: (08) 9368 3869 e: nardia@fruitwest.org.au

BRAVO™ will start returning to markets in its third commercial season in around May 2018. The apple will be sold Australia-wide and is also continuing trials into international markets as production increases.

BRAVO™

apple tasting notes (by Chef Sophie Zalokar) Colour and appearance

Ann Lyster, grower and Director of Fruit West Co-operative Ltd, was on hand to show the family around the orchard.

For the Walsh family, it was the first aeroplane trip for the children and an eye opening experience.

The Southern Forests region is one of the most abundant and striking places to visit in Western Australia. A fact that the region is now focused on promoting heavily through its Genuinely Extraordinary Southern Forests Food & Farm Experience tours (more details below) and is located just 300km from Perth.

“We felt so welcomed into the Southern Forests region by Ann, Sophie and all of the locals, with the orchard tour an absolute highlight of our trip. My children had so much fun picking the small apples off the trees. We visited every attraction in the area and got lots of inspiration to get home into the vegie garden after seeing farmers crops. Our stay at Foragers was beautiful, and overall for us it was by far our best holiday,” said Liana.

A highlight of the visit was a tour of the Lyster Orchard to see how the next season of BRAVO™ apples were progressing, and to compare farming notes. The Lyster family includes three generations of orchardists with a combined 60 plus years in the apple and pear industry, who are passionate about producing premium products.

“It was a pleasure to host the Walsh family and talk about the amazing journey of the BRAVO™ apple over the past 20 years from its discovery to commercialisation,” Ann commented. “Not only have the family been impressed with the bountiful produce from the Southern Forests, but also its amazing natural beauty,” said Ann.

Sweet & Juicy

Photo | Craig Kinder

Chef Sophie

• A medium to large, full and rounded sized apple with a distinctively rich, deep burgundy coloured skin and golden lenticels or Zalokar sparkle-like flecks over the skin surface • Creamy, parchment white flesh colour, which beautifully contrasts to the skin. When cut, the flesh is slow to oxidize

• Great crispy crunch and feel in the mouth when eaten as table fruit

Aroma and flavours • Sweet with a fresh aroma similar to the earthy smell of rain on dry earth • Hints of woody, Christmas spice and red wine flavours • Very pleasant, well balanced sugar to acid flavour

• The apple flesh has a firm crisp texture loaded with juice, holding its shape well when cooked

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What’s over the ditch that’s so interesting

to a bunch of young orchardists from WA?

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BY SUSIE MURPHY WHITE PROJECT MANAGER, POMEWEST

n late January nine young orchardists participated in Study Tour of New Zealand pome fruit orchards. The group visited seven orchards, a pack house and the Plant & Food Research Centre in the Hawkes Bay region on the North Island.

They then flew down to the Nelson Region in the South Island to visit one nursery and 10 orchards. It was very busy week learning about a buoyant industry that exports more than 90% of their apples and pears.

The tour started with a visit to Plant and Food Research (PFR) in Hawkes Bay learning about the Prevar breeding program. The apples and pears bred through Prevar are available to all Australian growers. So it was good to see their breeding facilities hear about their goals of breeding high flavoured apples, red fleshed apples and pears, fruit with durable resistance traits and the interspecific pears (crosses of European and Asian pears).

We then walked through to the Future Orchards Production Systems (FOPS) trial site located at PFR. Here we meet Ben Van Hooijdonk and Stuart Tustin the plant physiologists who had developed the FOPS planting system. The trial is a 2D planar system aimed at controlling vigour and using light more efficiently and driven by the high cost of land in Hawkes Bay ($100,000/ha).

33WA growers listening to Stuart Tustin (PFR) in the FOPS trial, Piqa®Boo® pears at 2m spacings.

The narrow row spacing’s were at 2m for the Piqa®Boo® pears, JazzTM apples and 1.5m for Gala apples. All planted with twin stems at 1.35m apart and the vertical fruiting branches trained to be at 30cm apart, so 10-12 uprights per stem.

This trial was in its 4th leaf and was expected to yield very well this season; Gala 85t/ha, JazzTM 160t/ ha and Piqa®Boo® pears 35t/ha.

A very impressive trial to see and then what was more impressive were the NZ growers who were already implementing and adapting the FOPS principles into their commercial orchard plantings. The trials on growers properties had received no funding assistance from outside the orchard business it was just growers having go in their own orchard.

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V TRELLIS SYSTEM AT HODDY’S ORCHARD ON THE WAIMEA PLAINS, NELSON.

33NEW planting of EnvyTM apples on Sunpeach Orchard Hawkes Bay, trees planted at 1.5m apart and row spacing of 3m.

While in the South Island around Nelson growers had focused their efforts on growing 2D systems allowing them to be robot ready. In some cases they were already using platforms to thin, prune and pick.

The New Zealand industry was very focused on exporting to all over the world and not relying on any one market, with their main markets at present Asia, Europe, UK and Americas. infrastructure many more years. Grafting was a very common tool used to keep up with market and consumer demands.

It was a quick, easy and cheap way of changing varieties.

33PIQA®BOO® pears in the FOPS trial.

The next training system we saw in both the Hawkes Bay and Nelson regions was the V Trellis. This system costed 50–100% more to construct. More money was being spent on the trellis and rootstocks as the variety on top could be easily changed over using grafting techniques. This gave the life of the

We visited Waimea Nurseries Nelson, this is the largest commercial tree nursery in New Zealand. They are the owners of Aztec Fuji® and Lady in Red and members of the International New Varieties Network allowing them to be at forefront of growing new varieties and rootstock development.

Their most popular rootstocks they supplied to commercial growers were M9 and CG202 with the varieties requested the most often; Ambrosia, EnvyTM, JazzTM, Royal Gala (high coloured strains), Lady in Red, RockitTM and DazzleTM. A recent popular request was the twin stem trees.

We saw many new plantings and most of these plantings were twin stems using bench grafts.

Typically the trees in the Hawkes Bay region were tall spindle trees with a very heavy crop load (>100t/ha) that would be able to support high quality apples, as most growers were receiving pack outs greater than 90%.

Most growers grew many varieties and had a few club varieties on their orchard.

On the tour we saw a lot of EnvyTM, JazzTM, Gala and Braeburn blocks of which are all exported.

The group of young WA orchardists were really inspired by the tour after seeing so many different orchards outside of their own regions. They learnt so much they were keen to come home and try some of the new ideas on their orchard. They showed this enthusiasm by sharing their knowledge gained on the tour at the recent Pomewest Summit panel discussion.

MORE INFORMATION This project was supported by the Agricultural Produce Commission and Pome sub-committee with growers funding their travel costs.

Special thanks goes to the AgFirst Consultants Ross Wilson, Steve Spark and Nic Finger for sharing their knowledge and hosting our group in New Zealand.

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Inaugural

Pome Industry Summit Wednesday 7 February 2018 Mercure Sanctuary Golf Resort Bunbury WA

D

BY NARDIA STACY POMEWEST, EXECUTIVE MANAGER

eputy Chair of the Pomewest Committee Mark Scott welcomed with a special mention of approximately 35 growers and representatives of stakeholder organisations, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) Hort Innovation, Apple and Pear Australia (APAL) and the Agricultural Produce Commission (APC).

Mark Scott then introduced the members of the Pomewest Committee and staff and welcomed new staff member Natalie Gallagher to the Pome industry. He acknowledged the difficulties of timing the event with the imminent harvest commitments. However, he thought looking around the room that the turnout was very pleasing.

He then addressed the purpose of the Summit and explained how it had evolved — an outcome of last year’s regional roadshow dinners.

He believed that the benefit of this forum was essentially to get growers together to learn, share ideas and to basically catch up.

It was also an opportunity to provide updates on our current projects and services and invite the members to assess Pomewest’s performance and how to look to other ways and ideas to improve services provided under the provision of funding of the Agricultural Produce Commission (APC) Fee for Service (FFS) payments.

33NOELENE Swain promotions presentation.

Mark also acknowledged that the summit objectives and outcomes will assist the committee to establish future directions and recommendations for the process of recommending future projects.

33NZ Study Tour — Young Grower's Panel.

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Mark advised that the current activities and funding decisions by the Committee supported on behalf of the industry by the Committee are based to fit within the parameters of the 2015–20 Pomewest Strategic Plan objectives being:

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES AT THE SUMMIT.

33NARDIA Stacy, Noelene Swain and Nicole Giblett.

33MICHAEL Fox, Mark Martella, Susie Murphy White and Tom Sheehan.

Objective 1

Projects for 2017–18

Increase the profitability and sustainability of the WA Pome Industry Securing production base, improve efficiency and innovation and develop and maintain market opportunities.

• Commercialising new varieties

Projects for 2017–18

• Health benefit trials and outcomes • Maturity standard monitoring • Promotions — including social media

Objective 3

• New technologies — including Future Orchards, crop size, estimating etc.

To provide industry leadership, unity and purpose

• Study Tours to NZ

Projects for 2017–18

• Biosecurity — trapping for Codling Moth and providing preparedness for future incidents and incursions

• Industry sponsorships

• Market access — National Systems Approach project

Objective 2 To increase the quality and consumption of WA pome fruit Including product development, enhancement and maturity standards.

• Communications • Industry engagement Mark then invited the speakers to present the following projects.

Study Tour of NZ Susie Murphy White Project Manager for Pomewest gave an account of the itinerary, technical grower visits, varietal developments and outcomes of the recent tour.

33TERRY Martella and Deputy Chair Mark Scott.

A panel session followed with four younger growers delegates giving their account of the trip and their interpretations of the lessons learnt: • drawing from the successes of the New Zealand co-ordinated approach to export • constant trialling to look to better production/growing techniques • quality control • coordination of supply and single desk marketing

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The result from the tour for the WA industry gave other growers sense of the possibility of industry rejuvenation and provision for forward thinking and planning. The tour participants used words demonstrating their passion and excitement for the future. This must have been encouraging to the more experienced producers in the audience, sensing the enthusiasm and thought processes the trip evoked with the next generation.

33MEGAN Jones, Leila Galega, Bec Whittaker, Mario Cassoti and Wayne Guilarducci.

As an outcome of the tour Pomewest is looking focusing on more projects for targeting progressive growers with activities that enhance the understanding of cooperation, and methodology for prospective success. More on the NZ Study trip on page 76.

Market Access Project Kim James, Project Manager of the DPIRD gave the participants a snapshot of the National systems approach project which had just been established (this project was featured in WA Grower, Vol. 52 No 4).

The national project is valued at $6.5m and thanks to the funding from Pomewest, DPIRD and the WA project budget value will be $978,000.

Kim explained that the four year DPIRD project is designed to develop market access options for apples produced in the Manjimup and Pemberton area and will include evaluation of measures within a systems approach to improve market access options.

The advantage for WA industry is that Kim’s work has collected over two years of data of low pest prevalence in the certain areas which will assist this project and advantage WA growers. The outcomes of this means that export opportunities for apples including BRAVO™ can be increased which builds the prospects for the future of the WA industry.

Promotions Project The ‘go to person’ in the Fresh Food Industry — Noelene Swain of Fresh Finesse is the Pomewest Promotions coordinator. Noelene presented her year’s work which happens cooperatively but independently of any national promotion campaigns to focus on local fruit. Activities extend the strategies initiated via the Aussie Apples marketing initiatives (These projects were reported in the previous edition of WA Grower, Vol. 52 No 4).

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33ROB and Alf Torrisi with John Sutton DPIRD.

Noelene spoke on her school program and Pomewest’s involvement since 2012 which linked to Fruit and Veg week in many Perth schools. She reported that in 2017 involved over 3500 students in 25 schools with active engagement by teachers and schools integrated apples and pears in variety of curriculum programs.

High Schools were included including participation in health Expos, apples promoted as snack food to teenagers and assisted in a positive attitude to apples.

Noelene touched on the Pomewest major event the Royal Show and its outcomes, media coverage, social media and special events. Participants were encouraged to ask questions at the end of the session which included a query about Buy West Eat Best and how we could maximise the use of the message.

Forward Thinking Discussion I then facilitated further discussion from the promotions project and fielded conversations on various subjects covered below. Conversations were all based around positivity and looking to steps to be taken under the guidance of the Pomewest strategic plan to improve the industry and ensure continued value of services.

Guests Paul Good, Director of APAL, Rohan Prince, DPIRD, and Mark Spees, Relationship Manager Hort Innovation, also contributed to the following questions

which were discussed optimistically and robustly.

• How to export markets by growers working together to achieve maximum benefits?

• HARPS — is it a necessity for everyone?

• Profitability — with labour costs, reduction of production costs how can we be sustainable?

• Levies and the National Marketing program — where is the value to WA growers?

Participants were asked to fill in a questionnaire about the afternoon, the feedback was very positive. Essentially Summit was a success and provided a sturdy structure to build on for future events.

The last section of the session saw participants adjourn for some nibbles and drinks outside which opened for an opportunity to network and continue the discussions from the program.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Nardia Stacy on (08) 9368 3869 or nardia@pomewest.net.au

WA CITRUS

wa citrus WA Citrus WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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Does

collaboration s t fi e n e bring b rs? to growe

‘Collaboration’ is the current buzz word from all levels of government stemming from the White Paper on Agricultural Competitiveness. As a result, funding for professional support is available for businesses to progress their collaboration or to investigate their options.

To take a closer look at what collaboration actually looks like on the ground, some real life examples from four WA horticulture industries were investigated to answer the questions: • Why would you collaborate?

• What are some of the challenges?

• What could it look like?

• Where can you get more information?

Why would you collaborate?

Improving profitability is usually a major driver for collaboration, as was revealed from the industry examples.

“After several years of solid growth in the local Western Australian citrus market, more recently it has become very competitive for growers,” said Brett Heather from Western Citrus Alliance.

Nicole Giblett from Newton Orchards of Manjimup agreed, “The commodity sector is at a massive turning point.

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Returns are being squeezed with a dropin consumption due to the booming berry and avocado sectors, a lack of seasonality and provenance along with rising input costs”. She went on to say, “It comes down to economies of scale, as you can’t just sell produce as oranges or apples anymore; it needs to be packed and marketed and supported by the work associated with networking and building relationships in the market, and that’s where collaboration works well and allows growers to focus on growing”.

Nicole added, “Every single part of the supply chain needs to be costed, including a grower’s own wage, to determine the economics of producing a bin of fruit.

Retailers also want to deal directly with pack houses and they only want a limited number of suppliers in the state, so it really is at a tipping point for a lot of sectors to get collaborative.”

For bananas, the initial driver for collaboration was the local industry struggling to compete with Queensland bananas, based on fruit size and quality, and they weren’t able to service the major retailers.

“Our market was shrinking, prices were down and growers weren’t making any money from bananas, so it was a lastditch attempt to save the industry in Carnarvon: if we hadn’t changed what we were doing, we wouldn’t have an industry today,” said Doriana Mangili from the Sweeter Banana Co-operative.

BY BRONWYN WALSH INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, WA CITRUS

“Marketing collectively is the key and you can’t do that if you are not collaborating,” she added.

The next generation and new entrants into the industry can also be drivers for collaboration.

In the avocado industry this was highlighted by Jennie Franceschi from Advanced Packing and Marketing Services, “As we build capacity in our younger members they become more adaptable and understand how beneficial it is to be working communicatively and collaboratively”.

Benefits From across the industry examples, the common benefit to growers from collaboration was that they gain access to chain retailers with better prices, more sustainable returns and improved communication through feedback and knowledge of their product.

From a citrus perspective, a study from 2002 found that, “More orderly and combined marketing of citrus into the local market is the improvement that would generate highest potential financial gains”.

Brett Heather added to this saying, “Farmers have more to gain by working together and aiming for new export markets rather than competing with each other.

WA CITRUS

“Export markets want long lines of safe quality product at a competitive global price that will hold up on the shelf in the destination market. One area to take cost out of the supply chain comes from better alignment between supply chain partners of grower, packer and market.”

“The key benefit of collaboration for the avocado sector is stability within the market and consistent pricing throughout the year,” said Jennie Franceschi.

“Information collated through the national Infocado system along with their own in-house reporting system Fruitbank, makes it easier to create stability and consistent product pricing throughout the year,” she said. “Export market also provides another means of creating stability in the domestic market, where we can move excess fruit off to other countries without devaluing the local market. Previously when there was a backlog, the small fruit pulled back the price of the big fruit and it started a downward spiral, but we haven’t seen that for four years,” Jennie added.

In the case of the banana industry, Doriana said, “Another key to the setup (a co-operative) is an Account Manager, who fully represents the co-operative and manages its best interests through direct relationships with retailers. Previously growers had relied on market agents who act as an intermediary but market both Queensland and Carnarvon bananas so there was a lack transparency”.

Another benefit from collaboration is it can take the stress off by access to experts on marketing, the certification process, financials and agronomy.

This can allow growers to concentrate on growing. “Working together and improving class one yield with expert agronomic advice helps drive improved farm margins,” said Brett.

By avoiding a large number of small and medium sized growers competing with very similar product, there is now one brand promoting the freshest and best produce, which creates a critical mass and scale as well as a unified brand that can be accepted and embraced by consumers.

Brett added, “Understanding key financial drivers on farm is paramount, the economic environment we are in is forcing farmers to be astute business managers. Developing business models and sensitivity analysis with cost/yield models are areas where collaboration can help growers who might not have access to such information on their own”.

What are some of the challenges?

Each of the industry examples identified challenges in collaborating, including mindset and it takes time.

Comments included: “Along the way we have discovered that not everyone is suited to being a member of a co-operative as they don’t share the vision. You will never have everyone involved in collaboration which is fine and while it is a difficult process, your best chance at success is to work with people who are committed to the process.”

“Some people struggle to think big and look at it competitively, worrying more about others than their own businesses. There is always some negativity but you can’t worry about dragging them along as unfortunately some people won’t change — choose to be positive and optimistic and just do it.”

“Lastly, being part of a group also means you never stop learning as different people bring their experience and knowledge to the table. Support "COMING TOGETHER IS A for growers to help address BEGINNING, STAYING TOGETHER “What holds people back from financial and health issues which are an inescapable fact IS PROGRESS, AND WORKING collaboration is the misguided notion that someone else will in agriculture where there is a TOGETHER IS SUCCESS." benefit from their hard work. At lot of pressure and if you are a HENRY FORD the end of the day producers need lone ranger that can be further to remember nobody ever wins in exacerbated. Belonging to a group market failure.” is a valuable exercise and provides growers with a connection,” said Nicole.

“It is a long process and takes a high level Doriana commented, “A co-operative structure is advantageous in purchasing consumables and achieving economies of scale such as freight. It also enables grower members to share the costs of co-operative facilities and resources and reduces their individual investment costs, which would not be a viable proposition for an individual grower”. Brett added, “Cost also comes out through collaboration and scale, such as combining volumes to get scale through pack sheds at a lower unit cost. Discounts in purchasing consumables and equipment can also be achieved across a larger group with greater purchasing power.”

of communication and openness to discuss

“Good prices are paid by good customers who want good quality product, this is where the focus is on farm these days underpinned by cutting edge agronomic advice,” he continued.

Building on the quality message, “The consistency of the product was very important in the market and a centralised packing shed provided a means to achieve uniform quality, grading and branding. We don’t sell any fruit under our brand if it is not from our shed as we can’t guarantee the quality,” said Doriana.

33GROWERS have collaborated to access agronomic advice. WA citrus growers and citrus agronomist.

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WA CITRUS

areas that have traditionally remained the domain of a single part of the supply chain.“ “The level of intimate collaboration is a departure for many farmers and supply chain partners who are used to working autonomously, in many cases this is where the journey of collaboration falls down.

Positive outcomes will only come from working with a coalition of the willing which is underpinned by a shared vision and transparency across the supply chain.”

“Group conversations about financials and improving practices can take people out of their comfort zone and be challenging. However if these conversations are looked at in a positive way they can help people avoid being an ostrich.”

Lastly, trust and transparency are very important in a co-operative; it is about having a transparent relationship with the grower members who need complete trust and financial transparency so they can understand what is going on, otherwise it will fall apart.”

What could it look like?

Collaboration takes place in various formats. Informal farming groups can collaborate successfully, but soon require legal and financial clarity. Then, they need a formal structure. Some entities are more collaborative than others and each type has different values. A sustainable structure is an important choice for collaborators.

Jennie added, “Choose to be positive and optimistic and just do it. You need to build your own capacity as not only will it strengthen the industry as a whole but allow you to develop relationships and create networks that could lead to further opportunities and knowledge. It is also important to collaborate at an industry level and act in a professional business manner.”

“Be respectful of the overall marketing plan,” said Nicole. Doriana agreed, saying, “Sometimes you have to take risks in marketing produce, but if everyone understands the big picture then they are prepared to back you to take that risk and they don’t point the finger if it doesn’t work.

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• Avocados — The company, Advance Packing Marketing, exports, packs & markets avocados for growers.

• Bananas — The Sweeter Banana Co-operative is owned and operated by 20 Carnarvon grower members and consists of a cool room, central pack house, a marketing distribution network and a Perth based Account Manager who maintains commercial relationships.

What does it take?

“It doesn’t matter what industry it is, you have to be open minded to collaboration and develop relationships that are beneficial to both, as it helps business,” said Nicole, “Be willing to take on the challenge and look at new ways of growing your fruit.”

• Citrus — Growers have been shareholders of a company, such as the Southwest Fruit Company or Western Citrus Alliance. The companies have provided packing and/or marketing services. Historically informal arrangements between growers and through the industry association have include branding to indicate quality and to consolidate supply under one label, efficient purchasing of packaging and driving change in the market place.

• Apples — The company, Newton Orchards of Manjimup, stores, packs and markets apples with an informal arrangement with growers.

“It took 20 years to get to where we wanted to be. We had to change the market’s view of our product, we had to access new markets and retailers where the majority of the volume goes, and we also had to change to integrate the supply chain.”

Common threads that were part of successful collaborative efforts across industries were a shared frame of mind and a win:win scenario.

In the industry examples that were investigated the format of collaboration were different:

THE 'BLUE STICKER' WAS INTRODUCED INTO USE WITH WA CITRUS FRUIT TO SHOW CONSUMERS WHICH FRUIT WAS FROM WA. THE INDUSTRY AGREED TO A SET OF STANDARDS TO USE WHEN USING THE BLUE STICKER. IT STILL FORMS THE BASIS OF MANY GROWERS STICKERS TODAY. In a booklet produced by the Farming Together Program formats of collaboration are outlined as follows: • proprietary limited company; • limited co-operative; • incorporated association; • partnership; • un-incorporated joint venture; and • un-incorporated association.

They recommend groups should clearly identify and document why they are coming together, to ensure the structure is a good fit for the business. Entity choices need to be investigated and communicated to potential Members, to avoid misunderstanding. Groups should ask each other about key considerations such as the purpose — their aims, reason for collaborating, member liability, member equity movement and winding up, raising capital, voting rights and taxation.

Regardless of the format, the collaboration from all industry examples focuses on building on a strong collaborative supply chain.

Where can you get more information?

The National Farming Together initiative has brought together information on collaboration including a six page document on business structure basics.

The document covers these points as well as provides clear explanations of some of the technical terms at the website: https://agworks.com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2017/03/Business-structuresDoc-Aug28.pdf Other tools are also available on their website, farmingtogether.com.au.

MORE INFORMATION This article was adapted by Bronwyn Walsh, Citrus Industry Development Manager, from a report by consulting firm AgKnowledge who investigated three case studies using funding from Farming Together. Thank you to the businesses for sharing their experience in collaboration.

YOUR BUSINESS

your

business Your business WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR BUSINESS

WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948

Business and Vegetable Production Benchmarking Benchmarking is a simple and effective way to take stock of your business and identify where you can make some quick wins to improve how much money you make — it also gives you a clear idea of how you’re performing compared to the industry average.

What actually is benchmarking?

Put simply, benchmarking is comparing your business operations and production against industry averages. From this you can quickly identify where you can make changes and what needs to be maintained so you can improve the output for all your effort.

What can benchmarking do for me?

Would I like; T o receive a free snapshot of how my business is performing across all areas T o know some simple savings tips that will increase my profit margin exponentially T o know where my costs are blowing out T o know how I am operating in comparison to other growers similar to me F eedback on how I am running my business from experts who are across a broad range of horticultural businesses in WA

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T o have the collective knowledge of best practices throughout WA benefitting my operations and providing me with better profits for my business T o be part of a thriving horticultural industry in WA that is comparable to world leading horticulture practices T o be part of the WA horticultural industry movement that wants to make significant change to adopting successful Industry best practices If these are the sort of things you would like then benchmarking is for you.

What will I get out of it?

When you agree to participate, you will receive: • A farm visit to gather all information and complete the benchmarking form — there’s no filling forms out for you!

• Your own confidential individual benchmarking comparison report, including a snapshot of your business sustainability • A further farm visit to talk through and explain the findings of the report so you can action the findings straightaway

• Support and all questions answered throughout the process

What parts of my business does benchmarking cover?

• On-farm operations information • Overall financial performance • Input and output costs • Production and revenue • Basic on-farm practises

What information will you need?

The majority of the information required to participate is drawn from reports and documents you will already have in your possession. This will include accountants report, production reports, water reports and utility bills.

Confidentiality It’s only natural when first considering participation in benchmarking to be concerned about where your information is going and what will happen to it.

All information submitted is kept strictly confidential and comparisons are made against anonymous averages and trends.

This way key individual insights can be revealed while retaining the confidentiality of all participants.

YOUR BUSINESS

Frequently asked questions 1. Do I have to pay for this?

No, this is a free service to all vegetable growers. It is funded by Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development (DPIRD) and Hort Innovation.

2. Who’s going to see my data and what happens to my data?

Only the person who collects the information and the Planfarm data analyst who verifies it will ever actually see the information provided. Data will be collected by either the vegetablesWA benchmarking lead or representatives from the company Planfarm, who will be responsible for the analysis. All information shared will be held securely and completely confidential.

3. Who are Planfarm? vegetablesWA have partnered and will work closely with WA based Planfarm. Planfarm bring 40 years of experience in leading the highly recognised broadacre benchmarking in WA; which continues to provide key business performance data for over 550 broadacre farmers across the grains industry of WA. In addition to all the analysis, Planfarm representatives will also carry out a number of farm visits. In the 40 years of broadacre benchmarking there has never been any breaches of confidentiality.

4. Will I be giving my trade secrets away?

Certainly not. The information gathered focuses on how your business performs not what you actually do to achieve that How do I get involved?

Simply contact Bryn Edwards, Benchmarking Lead, on (08) 9486 7515 or bryn.edwards@vegetableswa.com.au You’ll then be asked to read and sign a Data Agreement Form, also signed by us, which forms a binding, formal agreement of what exactly will and won’t happen with your information — providing

performance. Together with the strict processes around confidentiality, none of your practises will ever be shared.

5. Will I be able to see the results of my competitor and can they see mine?

No, all results and findings in the individual benchmarking report presented against industry averages and anonymous indicators. This way you will never know who the other participants are or they you.

6. Which crop types does it cover?

All vegetables are covered.

7. How long with it take?

We’ll come to your farm to collect the information to reduce time taken away from growing. If all the documents are available it will take the person who visits 2–3 hours to load it followed by 1–2 hours of your time clarifying and verifying what has been captured.

8. Who needs to be involved?

We suggest that you either have yourself or farm manager available as well as your bookkeeper, especially if you don’t have the documents available.

9. Do I need to provide all the data you ask for?

Provide as much data as you’re comfortable with, however please note you’ll only get a full analysis and get the most benefits out of benchmarking if you provide a full picture of your business. you with clarity and confidence from the beginning.

After this, we’ll schedule the farm visits and provide you with a list of documents to collect together beforehand.

One final important point Benchmarking, and the information gathered, has the potential to become one of the most valuable assets to support

10. Will I see a comparison within my region as well as against the state?

Yes, but we will need over 12 growers to participate in your region, so everyone’s anonymity is maintained. If less than 12 growers participate we won't carry out the regional comparison however you will still be benchmarked against the total industry.

11. What happens to all the information?

All information is securely stored in a database on the Planfarm server. Any records you may share will be deleted once the information is entered into the database.

Once the data gathering has been completed for the year, there will be analysis performed across the whole dataset to look for industry trends.

Again, no individual grower will be identified within or by this.

12. What will I do with my results?

The person who collected your information with also come back to your farm to give you your individual benchmarking report which belongs to you and you only. That person will explain the findings and also talk through how you actually use them and make changes to benefit your farm.

13. What’s the downside?

We're struggling to see one.

Western Australian growers as they navigate their business forward; it will be a competitive advantage against other states and possibly countries.

However, this lies on you the grower getting involved and contributing information.

We believe in its benefits for your business and invite you to come on board and join us.

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

Contact: Bryn Edwards, Benchmarking Lead, vegetablesWA 702-704 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005 t: (08) 9486 7515 e: bryn.edwards@vegetableswa.com.au WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR BUSINESS

THE AIM IS TO BROADEN OUR CUSTOMER BASE IN SELLING ‘OUR ENTIRE CROP’ AND NOT JUST THE PREMIUM FRUIT!

Odeum Farms expansion hoping to increase profits by reducing waste

BY MATTHEW RUSSELL FRESHPLAZA

O

deum Farms has launched a new business, hoping to get more sales out of its crop by opening up new clientele.

Its sister company, Allied Farms Australia started in December at Canning Vale Markets and is designed to have a stronger focus on the independent wholesalers in Western Australia and around Australia, by creating a new market for produce that previously was not able to be sold.

“Approximately 20–30% our crops will never make it to Odeum Farms’ direct customers so this is a massive game changer for us on the war on waste,” National Category and Farms Manager Jason Marais said.

“Not only will Allied Farms be supplying premium fruit and vegetables to an array of wholesale buyers, but another objective of this business is to have the ability to move composite grades of our crops, for example second grade produce which would usually have become waste or heavily reduced in the past.”

Allied Farms Australia core product lines will be gourmet tomatoes, cherry and grape tomatoes, watermelon, sweet potatoes, beans, cucumbers, capsicums, Brussels sprouts, snow peas, sugar snaps and strawberries along with some other seasonal produce lines throughout the year.

“The aim is to broaden our customer base in selling ‘our entire crop’ and not just the premium fruit which the chain stores and export customers want,” Mr Marais said.

“The idea behind Allied Farms Australia is also to strengthen our current relationships with other farming businesses around Australia, giving them better options.”

Mr Marais said Odeum Farms business structure was designed to meet the needs of the major chain stores within Australia; Coles, Woolworths and Aldi.

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While he admits not knowing exactly what impact this will have to Odeum Farm’s group of companies, he is confident there is a market for all grades of produce.

“There has always been great demand, previously as Odeum Farms we were not geared up to effectively service this sort of clientele, so we are expecting good results,” he said.

“There are many variables and costs in a new business to consider and this will be reviewed frequently over the coming months. The principle ideas and structures behind opening Allied Farms make perfect sense for Odeum Farms so we do expect this to have a profound effect on the business, providing better outcomes for both Odeum and our partner farms.”

MORE INFORMATION Contact Jason Marais, Odeum Farms, on (08) 9256 8100, email admin@odeum.com.au or go to www.odeum.com.au

WA crates

The professional packaging service for WAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ďŹ nest fresh fruit and vegetables

0 email: service@wacrates.com.au

YOUR BUSINESS

Food M

BY JAN DAVIS FOOD BLOGGER

ost of us have at some stage come across cheap knock-off copies of expensive brands — Louis Vuitton handbags, Ralph Polo shirts, Rolex watches, Nike shoes — whatever. Maybe you have even succumbed to temptation — after all, no-one is really being harmed, are they?

Counterfeiting by low cost producers in third world markets has been a challenge to many major corporations and fashion houses for decades. However, fashion goods are not the only targets for brand cheats. Over recent years, food fraud has become all too commonplace.

Food fraud takes several forms.

Australia enjoys positive perceptions in rapidly growing Asian markets as a clean and green producer of wholesome, natural and trustworthy food products.

The upside of this means there are opportunities in export markets for Australian farmers and food producers to take advantage of strong demand for our

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products and, in many cases, to achieve a significant price premium. The downside is that unscrupulous traders want to cash in on these opportunities by muscling in with copies of many of our well-known brands.

of place on the menu of high-end eateries across the globe. Quite by accident, he discovered a Chinese company had been offered daily deliveries of more product in a week than his farm produced in a month.

Some time ago, a wine labelled “Benfold” in the familiar style of the well-known Penfold’s brand became popular in Asian markets. At a quick glance, it was easy to miss the difference. A Chinese online retailer set up a website from Sydney, passing off Chilean cherries in fake-printed Chinese boxes to Shanghai customers as a well-known brand of Tasmanian-grown cherries. Victorian farmer, David Blackmore, produces small quantities of Wagyu beef that take pride

While it is disappointing to see this sort of exploitation, counterfeiting is not unexpected in some markets.

So much so, that an Australian counterfeit specialist warned recently “for any Australian company that wants to sell in China, the message is simple. You will be copied. Your trademark will be copied.

Your intellectual property will be copied.

Just accept it as fact.”

YOUR BUSINESS

FOR ANY AUSTRALIAN COMPANY THAT WANTS TO SELL IN CHINA, THE MESSAGE IS SIMPLE. YOU WILL BE COPIED. YOUR TRADEMARK WILL BE COPIED. YOUR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY WILL BE COPIED. JUST ACCEPT IT AS FACT.

PRODUCT OF CHINA

ia Austral

We’re all familiar with another form of food fraud — and that’s passing off one product as something more up-market.

For years, Nile perch has been passed off as Australian barramundi; generic green leaves have been marketed as oregano; and prawns from Thailand and Vietnam have been sold as local product. This can also include deliberate fake country of origin information — for example, labelling snow peas from Nigeria as locally grown.

The issue has been of such concern in the seafood industry that national naming standards have been introduced. Clear labelling and increased traceability of seafood provides consumers with the information needed to choose fish with confidence and avoid those that are potentially contaminated, overfished, or caught using destructive techniques.

These examples are bad enough. However, the growing incidence of menu fraud is even worse, because it is a cynical exploitation of farmers by those who should know better.

Menu fraud happens when restaurants and chefs take advantage of the increasing consumer interest in food provenance to trade off the reputations of well-known producers with recognised brands.

Examples of this could include passing off commodity grade beef as our own premium King Island product, or falsely labelling imported saffron or truffles as Tassie grown.

Calling out the cheats is not just about protecting reputations and profits, though.

As importantly, its about the maintaining brand integrity, and food health and safety.

The ramifications if someone got sick or died from a counterfeit product would be huge. No doubt those affected would sue; and regulators would come down on the legitimate producer like a ton of bricks.

Even if they could prove the offending products were fakes, the bad publicity could destroy them.

This is wrong on so many counts.

Imitation may well be said to be the sincerest form of flattery.

Customers are paying premium prices for what is an inferior or commodity product; restaurants and food manufacturers are enjoying falsely inflated margins; and farmers producing boutique high-quality, high-cost food are being ripped off.

However, when it comes to our fabulous Aussie food products, it is simply theft.

We need to take every possible measure to ensure that our brands, and our producers, are strongly protected from opportunists trying to cash in on their hard work and investment.

Their good name is being traded on with no financial return, and their reputation is being sullied by having their name linked to what is most likely to be inferior produce.

MORE INFORMATION Contact Claire McClelland, Market Development Manager vegetablesWA at claire.mcclelland@vegetableswa.com.au

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HARPS changes How they affect your business?

F

BY JOEL DINSDALE QUALITY ASSURANCE COORDINATOR, VEGETABLESWA

or those of you that are growing produce that is destined for any of the major supermarkets, you are probably aware of the acronym HARPS. HARPS stands for Harmonised Australian Retailer Produce Scheme.

HARPS HELPLINE

1300 852 219

It is a bolt on Quality Assurance (QA) system that runs concurrently with your GFSI base scheme (Freshcare Food Safety & Quality Edition 4, Safe Quality Food (SQF) Edition 8, Global G.A.P. or British Retail Consortium (BRC). This system adds the extra retailer QA/food safety requirements to your approved base scheme to ensure that you are producing a high quality and safe final product fit for sale/consumption.

Previously, those businesses that required HARPS were direct suppliers only (i.e. those businesses with a supermarket vendor number). However, a revision of the system completed by the HARPS committee has found that any business that acts as a co-packer (i.e. packing a shelf-ready product) may have to adopt the HARPS system requirements into their QA program.

The HARPS committee has recently issued a decision matrix to assist growers to make an appropriate judgement as to whether their business requires HARPS to accompany their base scheme. To coincide with this, HARPS have allowed extra adoption time for those suppliers that are classed as Tier 2 or Tier 3 and exempting growers that produce less than 10 pallets per annum (this excludes supply of retail branded pre-packs).

HARPS will also be providing additional support in the form of awareness sessions that are to be conducted at the capital city central markets and online in the form of webinars — see http://harpsonline.com.au for details.

Is HARPS required for my business?

Is HARPS required for my business?

HARPS is a retailer-led scheme designed to assist with compliance to food safety, legal and trade legislation for suppliers to the major grocery retailers in Australia.

Tier 1

Tier 2

Tier 3

Out of Scope

HARPS is a retailer-led schemeYour designed to assist with compliance to food safety, legal and tradeYour legislation for suppliers Your business has a Vendor or business packs or re-packs: Your business supplies bulk produce business processes fresh produce. to the major grocery retailers in retail Australia.

Supplier Number for one of the (not in final packaging) for further (e.g. value-adding such as bagged salads, Loose product with PLU/DataBar stickers HARPS Participating Retailers*.

Tier 1

Your business has a Vendor or Supplier Number for one of the HARPS Participating Retailers*.

Action Required

If you have not yet achieved HARPS approval go to www.harpsonline.com.au to register your interest in achieving Action Required HARPS approval.

applied as specified by a HARPS Participating Retailer*; or Retail-branded pre-packs; or

Tier 2

Retail Returnable Plastic Crates (RPC’s); or Your business packs or re-packs: Proprietary-branded pre-packs; orstickers Loose product with PLU/DataBar applied as specified byretail a HARPS Loose product in final packaging, Participating Retailer*; or packed to a retail specification destined for a HARPS Participating or Retail-branded pre-packs; Retailer*; or Your is part of an Approved Retailbusiness Returnable Plastic Crates (RPC’s); or Supplier Program for your Tier 1 Proprietary-branded pre-packs; or customer, who supplies to a HARPS Loose product in final retail Participating Retailer*; or packaging, packed to a retail specification destined Your business provides Ancillary Services^ for a HARPS Participating Retailer*; or Your business is part of an Approved Supplier Program for your Tier 1 Action Required customer, who supplies to a HARPS Participating Retailer*; or

Contact your respective retailer customer(s) foryet further information.

If you have not achieved HARPS approval go to www.harpsonline.com.au to register your interest in achieving HARPS approval.

Your business provides Ancillary Services^ Your business may require HARPS approval (this includes certification to an Approved Base Scheme** and the HARPS Action Required requirements) by 1st January 2019.

Contact your respective retailer customer(s) for further information.

Notify HARPS of your interest in achieving approval by registering at HARPS approval Your business may require th June www.harpsonline.com.au byto 30an 2018. (this includes certification Approved Base Scheme** and the HARPS requirements) by 1st January 2019.

Notify HARPS of your interest in achieving approval by registering at www.harpsonline.com.au by 30th June 2018.

packing to a Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier.

Tier 3

You are a low volume producer supplying a total of 10 pallets or less per calendar year, per site. This is a collective total Your business supplies bulk produce across all HARPS Participating Retailers*. (not in final retail packaging) for further (NB: Suppliers of 1retail-branded pre-packs packing to a Tier or Tier 2 supplier. are excluded from this rule as they qualify You are a low volume producer supplying as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier). a total of 10 pallets or less per calendar year, per site. This is a collective total across all HARPS Participating Retailers*.

Action Required (NB: Suppliers of retail-branded pre-packs are excluded from this rule as they qualify as a Tier 1 or Tier 2 supplier).

Your business may be required to be certified to an Approved Base Scheme** by 1st January 2019.

Action Required

Your business may be required to be certified to an Approved Base Scheme** by 1st January 2019.

fresh cuts, sliced mushrooms/carrots, shelled nuts etc. )

Out of Scope

Virtual brokers that do not qualify as a Tier 2 or 3 supplier.

Your1,business processes fresh produce. (e.g. value-adding such as bagged salads, fresh cuts, sliced mushrooms/carrots, shelled nuts etc. ) Virtual brokers that do not qualify as a Tier 1, 2 or 3 supplier.

Action Required

No action required for HARPS. Action Required

No action required for HARPS.

* HARPS Participating Retailers: ALDI, Coles, Costco, Metcash (IGA), Woolworths ** Approved Base Schemes: BRC, Freshcare, GLOBALG.A.P., SQF ^ Ancillary Services: Supporting or additional services including ripening, brokerage activities, storage and cooling (where product handling and traceability are the responsibility of the Ancillary Service supplier). * HARPS Participating Retailers: ALDI, Coles, Costco, Metcash (IGA), Woolworths ** Approved Base Schemes: BRC, Freshcare, GLOBALG.A.P., SQF

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^ Ancillary Services: Supporting or additional services including ripening, brokerage activities, storage and cooling (where product handling and traceability are the responsibility of the Ancillary Service supplier).

YOUR BUSINESS

The Perth awareness sessions will be held in Bunbury on 26th March at 2pm and Canning Vale markets on 27th March at 8am. For further details contact HARPS Online, call them on 1300 852 219 or email on harps@harpsonline.com.au

What should I do?

Firstly, you will need to use the decision matrix to determine where your business fits in term of the matrix (Tier1-3 or Out of Scope). If you determine that your business is categorised into either Tier 1 or 2, then you may need to attain HARPS and therefore you must register with HARPS on their website (http://harpsonline.com.au).

For those in Tier 1, you will need to implement HARPS as soon as possible.

For those in Tier 2, you may have to implement HARPs so you will need to contact your customer(s) to ascertain if you need to adopt the HARPS program. If any of your customers require you to adopt HARPS, you will have until 1 January 2019 to achieve certification.

If your business is classified as Tier 3, then you will not need to implement HARPS unless you are packing product into retail branded packaging. Out of Scope classified businesses do not need to adopt HARPS unless your business activities change.

It is recommended that all businesses review the HARPS decision matrix when changes occur within the business.

Things to remember when adopting HARPS Firstly you will need to register with HARPS online. Secondly, you will need to notify your certification body (CB) to inform them that you require an additional HARPS audit, that is completed by a HARPS approved CB and auditor.

HARPS was designed to be audited concurrently with your base scheme, meaning that if you are a Tier 2 business, you can go to audit with your base scheme + HARPS when your next scheme audit is due (provided your recertification date is prior to 1 January 2019).

If you are a Tier 1 business, you will need to complete a separate HARPS audit as soon as possible, then align it to your base scheme audit when you’re next due for recertification against that base scheme.

All businesses that are classified as Tier 1–3 may need to adopt HARPS before 1 January 2019. If you are still uncertain as to whether your business requires HARPS, you should contact the HARPS Helpline HARPS is a retailer-led scheme design on 1300 852 219. The HARPS hotline will also answer questions regarding Tier 1all things HARPS. Alternatively you can check out the FAQ’s on the HARPS website (http:// harpsonline.com.au/faq/).

Is HARPS re

Your business has a Vendor or Supplier Number for one of the HARPS Participating Retailers*.

Your busines

Loose produ applied as sp Participating Retail-brand

Retail Return

Proprietary-

MORE INFORMATION

Loose produ packed to a for a HARPS

Finally, for those vegetable growers that Action Required require assistance to implement and adopt you have not yet achieved HARPS HARPS, they can contactIfapproval vegetablesWA’s go to www.harpsonline.com.au to register your interest in achieving HARPS approval.

Quality Assurance Coordinator Joel Dinsdale Contact your respective retailer via email joel.dinsdale@vegetableswa.com.au customer(s) for further information. or on his mobile 0417 857 675.

Your busines Supplier Pro customer, w Participating

Your busines

Action Requ

Your busines (this include Base Schem requirement

Notify HARP approval by www.harpson

Version 1.0 January 2018

NEED HARVEST WORKERS? A no cost Australian Government suitable workers, manage enquiries and provide information on your rights and responsibilities as an employer.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR BUSINESS

Watch the pennies and the pounds will look after themselves

g in d n a t s r e d n u f o e c n a t r o p im e Th ls ia c n a in f s s e in s u your b

D

o your eyes glaze over at the thought of reading a profit and loss statement? If the answer is yes, why not let the Small Business Development Corporation show you how easy it is to understand your business financials.

Financial literacy is a key skill for small business owners and being able to monitor the financial health of your business without relying solely on your accountant, will save you time and money.

Finance is about more than just money Financial management is the foundation of your business and understanding your financial situation will help you: • manage your cashflow • plan future growth • meet your legal obligations • maximise your profits, and • better understand the strengths and weaknesses of your business • accurately value your business

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Financial statements tell a lot about the performance of your business, and can help answer some burning questions: • How much profit am I making?

• Are my expenses excessive?

• Why are my profits going down when my sales are going up?

• Am I getting a fair return on my investment?

By recognising what the financials are telling you, you’ll be able to identify problems and put plans in place to correct them.

Essentially, you’re in business to make money so here’s an easy formula to help you check that you are making a profit.

Sales - Cost of goods sold = Gross profit - Expenses = Net profit Keep a close eye on these performance indicators and compare them weekly, monthly or quarterly. With the help of a basic accounting program, you can put the results in table format, and then it’s easy to convert them to a line graph to see at a glance how well you’re doing.

Calculating these figures and analysing them regularly will keep you well informed and able to make managerial decisions such as pricing your products and services correctly.

If possible, use a computer program that’s compatible with that used by your accountant to help keep your accounting costs down.

Starting and running a business can be expensive • Find the safest, most economical way to borrow money and have a practical plan to pay it back.

• Be realistic and honest in your loan application and get help from an accountant or business adviser to ensure your financial decisions are sound.

• Shop around for the best deals and compare your options.

• If you’re getting money from family or friends, make it clear from the start whether it’s intended as a loan, a gift or in return for an ownership share in the business.

• Put your agreement in writing and have it witnessed by an independent third party.

YOUR BUSINESS

KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON PERFORMANCE INDICATORS AND COMPARE THEM WEEKLY, MONTHLY OR QUARTERLY. Some preparation is required before entering into a CSEF arrangement but successful businesses can raise up to $5 million a year. Individuals seeking to invest can contribute up to $10,000 per company, per year.

33IF possible, use a computer program that’s compatible with that used by your accountant to help keep your accounting costs down.

Borrowing money to grow your business At various stages in your business development, you may consider borrowing funds to expand, or introduce new products.

Access to business finance has improved since the global financial crisis, and interest rates are still low however, many small businesses still struggle to access funds at reasonable rates.

An essential part of being a business owner is knowing how to set up and manage your business financials so you can borrow and repay development funding.

Borrowing funds in this way incurs costs and charges such as interest, application fees, ongoing fees and charges and insurance costs.

• Equity funding comes from other sources of finance such as personal savings, or from stakeholders in exchange for partial ownership of the business. While this finance is less of a burden on the business because it’s not required to be paid back in the short term, investors will usually expect a degree of ownership or control in the business and they may also want a say in running it.

The two main types of finance are debt finance and equity funding. According to the Reserve Bank of Australia, business loans are currently 40% debt and trade credit (overdrafts and credit cards), and 60% equity (personal property/ shareholders/crowdfunding).

• Crowdfunding is a relatively new method of raising finance and is often used to start a new business, or for research and development of a new product within an existing business.

Crowdfunding involves bringing members of the public together to invest in exchange for goods, services or equity. Investors can provide large or small sums of money.

• Debt finance is money borrowed from external lenders such as banks or other lending institutions. This money must be paid back within a fixed time period and repayments usually commence shortly after the loan is approved. The money is also often secured against property or assets owned by the business or the business owner.

• In September 2017, new laws were introduced to cover Crowd-Sourced Equity Funding (CSEF), a financial option for businesses with annual turnover and gross assets of up to $25 million. CSEF works in a way similar to listing a business on the stock exchange, but with lower costs and less administration.

Although there are some similarities between CSEF and simple crowdfunding, there are also significant differences.

Both systems operate through a third party platform and are based on funding provided by members of the public however, a primary difference between the two options includes the expected return on investment.

Crowdfunding investors may be happy to receive a report on the progress of the business, a sample of the product or just the joy of helping a business get off the ground. CSEF investors become shareholders in the business and would be expecting a financial return on their investment. Basically, they’re buying into the business.

The Small Business Development Corporation provides free, confidential business advice and guidance to small business owners throughout WA. Book today for our two-hour workshop ‘Understanding Business Financials’.

MORE INFORMATION Contact 13 12 49 or www.smallbusiness. wa.gov.au For more information on Crowd Sourced Equity Funding (CSEF) contact the Federal Department of Innovation at www. innovation.gov.au/page/access-crowdsourced-equity-funding

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Building financial confidence for growers

e r u t l u c i t r o in WA h CHRIS PUCKRIDGE COUNSELLOR, RURAL FINANCIAL COUNSELLING SERVICE OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

S

upported by the State and Federal government, the RFCSWA works with a wide range of primary producers, including fruit and vegetable growers, across WA and aims to improve their business and financial skills and clarify their business plans for the future.

Successful businesses need to attract capital to build productivity, whether it be new machinery, land purchase or utilising new technology. All these things cost money and so the challenge for growers is to have sufficient confidence in their future plans to take the plunge to invest.

However, perhaps more importantly, banks and financiers need to have confidence in the industry and its individual clients.

This isn’t always as easy as it sounds.

Banks and other lenders have at times found WA’s horticulture industry difficult to get their heads around, particularly if they lack understanding and insight into many aspects of horticulture from capital requirements to production timing and income.

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This can make the horticultural industry in WA very daunting for a lender, as in many ways it lacks transparency. If we compare horticulture in WA to broad acre farming in WA, the differences are extreme when it comes to a bank evaluating the credit worthiness of a grower.

For example, when it comes to broad acre farming, financial institutions can refer to a wide range of industry information and benchmarks regarding capital requirements and returns on investment.

The banks analysts who calculate the risk factor in lending money to a wheat farmer can refer to industry standards for wheat yields and pricing mechanisms, they can refer to specific information by local government area and they can access the fantastic information supplied by industry

groups such as Cooperative Bulk Handling (CBH) and the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC).

All of this gives them a broad view of the industry health and production which can then be narrowed down into a specific farming area and then down to an individual farm.

Even farm consultants and banks themselves produce and collate a huge data base on broadacre farming such as the Planfarm Bankwest Benchmarks which are annually sourced from over 550 farms.

This gives lenders a strong position to base their decisions on and enables the bank to have confidence in its clients’ credit worthiness and future growth plans. In turn, as a bank’s confidence increases in an industry it can reduce the costs of lending.

However when it comes to horticulture, the industry can be a bit of mystery to lending institutions.

YOUR BUSINESS

OUR HORTICULTURAL INDUSTRY HAS HUGE SCOPE FOR DEVELOPMENT AND EXPANSION. Information available is often disjointed and on such a scale that it might not relate to other areas within WA, let alone other states.

Our horticultural industry has huge scope for development and expansion and the advances in technology and strategies will continue to see our producers make leaps in productivity and profitability. We only have to look at some of the advances made by growers in areas around Gingin and Manjimup to see what can happen when the right strategic plan is linked to the correct technology.

That’s why the initiative by vegetablesWA to work with growers in developing information based on benchmarking for local growers is so important. It will be our first real opportunity to build a strong foundation for banks and other lenders to grow their confidence in the industry here and to work with producers in a collaborative approach.

The fact is banks and other lenders are in the business of giving money out with the aim of getting it back. The more confidence in getting the money returned, the more likely a lender is of being more competitive and more aggressive in giving the money out in the first place. This can and will lead to lenders building their confidence in specific production areas and commodities and ultimately loosen constraints in sourcing capital.

There’s another reason why the benchmarking initiative is important for individual businesses: it can give them a clear indication of where their business sits in terms of industry averages and profitability.

This is where the RFCSWA comes in.

Evaluating the financial position and health of a business is an important process and one that the RFCSWA is doing more and more of.

We can assist people to consolidate their financial position so that they are in a stronger position to negotiate a better arrangement with their financial lender.

In some cases, this means helping a grower put a plan together to give their bank the confidence to increase their overdraft facility or to arrange new terms on their capital loan position in order to expand. Our aim is to turn complex issues in to simple language to ensure clients completely understand their position and their options to move forward.

Each situation is different and sometimes all a grower wants is a bit of insight and an hour session so they can move on themselves. Other times it might be a long-term program that works with you to restructure or fine-tune your business.

We work off the idea that these are the grower’s decisions — we’re certainly not there to tell you what to do or how to do it, but to offer information and options so that you can provide your own solutions.

As an independent, government-backed organisation we do not charge eligible clients for our services.

MORE INFORMATION It just takes a phone call to our office on 1800 612 004 to speak to us and to arrange one of our counsellors to visit you on your property to have a confidential talk about your situation and what you hope to achieve.

Regain Focus, Create Solutions Rural Financial Counselling Service

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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Code of Conduct

C

hanges have been made to the Horticulture Code of Conduct, which regulates the sale of produce between growers and wholesalers.

Following these changes, to be implemented by 1st April 2018, some growers have now been presented with a new Terms of Trade, Horticulture Produce Agreement and associated Schedule by their wholesaler.

TO MAKE IT AS STRAIGHTFORWARD FOR YOU, THE ACCC HAS PRODUCED SAMPLE AGREEMENTS.

Growers should seek independent legal advice in negotiating the terms of these agreements. Growers without an existing legal provider should do their own duediligence: Yung T. Nguyen, Managing Director Yung Nguyen & Co. Lawyers P: (08) 6114 3112 M: 0418 444 505

Example Horticulture Produce Agreement – Agent

Example Horticulture Produce Agreement – Merchant

Grower

Agent

Grower

Grower’s Name:

Agent’s Name:

Grower’s Name:

Merchant’s Name:

ACN (if applicable):

ACN (if applicable):

ACN (if applicable):

ACN (if applicable):

ABN (if applicable):

ABN (if applicable):

ABN (if applicable):

ABN (if applicable):

Address:

Address:

Address:

Address:

Email:

Email:

Email:

Email:

Phone:

Phone:

Phone:

Phone:

Terms and conditions

Terms and conditions

1.

Agreement

1.

Agreement

1.1.

For the Term of this agreement, the Grower agrees to deliver, and the Agent agrees to arrange, on behalf of the Grower, the sale of Horticulture Produce of the type, quantity, quality and specifications stated in this agreement, for the payment of a commission / fee / extra cost [delete whichever does not apply] stated or calculated in accordance with this agreement.

1.1.

For the Term of this agreement, the Grower agrees to deliver, and the Merchant agrees to buy, Horticulture Produce of the type, quantity, quality and specifications set out in this agreement or as ordered by the Merchant and confirmed in writing by the Grower from time to time, for the price/s stated in, or calculated in accordance with, this agreement.

2.

Term

2.

Term

2.1.

This agreement will commence on the Start Date and will continue for the Term of the agreement unless it is terminated earlier in accordance with clause 18.

2.1.

This agreement will commence on the Start Date and will continue for the Term of the agreement unless it is terminated earlier in accordance with clause 17.

Further information may also be found on the ACCC website.

vegetablesWA cannot provide legal advice but growers are also welcome to contact us to gain a broader understanding of the code.

On 1 April 2017, the Horticulture Code came into effect. The Code replaces the old Horticulture Code established by the Trade Practices (Horticulture Code of Conduct) Regulations 2006.

The new Code applies from 1 April 2018.

If you trade in horticulture produce on or after this date, you must comply with the terms of the Code.

Event

Date

Event

Date

Start Date

[insert date] or date the last party signs (whichever is the latter)

Start Date

[insert date] or date the last party signs (whichever is the latter)

Term

This agreement will commence on the Start Date and will terminate on [insert end date] / the date the agreement is terminated under clause 18 [if there is no end date] – [Note: Delete as appropriate].

Term

This agreement will commence on the Start Date and will terminate on [insert end date] / the date the agreement is terminated under clause 17 [if there is no end date] – [Note: Delete as appropriate].

3.

Agent’s reporting obligations

3.

Merchant’s reporting obligations

3.1.

For the purposes of this agreement, the Reporting Period is [Note: Insert period: monthly/quarterly]

3.1.

For the purposes of this agreement, the Reporting Period is [Note: Insert period: monthly/quarterly]

3.2.

For each Reporting Period, the Agent will give the Grower a statement for the Reporting Period, specifying for the Grower’s Horticulture Produce received by the Agent during the Reporting Period:

3.2.

For each Reporting Period, the Merchant will give the Grower a statement for the Reporting Period, specifying for the Grower’s Horticulture Produce received by the Merchant during the Reporting Period:

1

33GROWERS should seek independent legal advice in negotiating terms of agreements.

There is a 12-month transition period for parties with existing written agreements.

After this transition period ends, all agreements need to comply with the current Code. This includes agreements entered into before 15 December 2006, which were not covered by the earlier code.

MORE INFORMATION Frequently Asked Questions about the new Code are on the website at: Horticulture Code FAQs (www.accc.gov.au/update/horticulturecode-faq)

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Merchant

1

To make it as straightforward as possible for you the ACCC has produced sample Horticulture Produce Agreements, depending on whether they sell their produce to an agent or a merchant (as defined in the Code): • Sample Horticulture Produce Agreement — Merchant (www.accc.gov.au/publications/ example-horticulture-produce-agreementmerchant) • Sample Horticulture Produce Agreement — Agent (www.accc.gov.au/publications/ example-horticulture-produce-agreementagent) The full range of ACCC information is at: Horticulture code guidance materials

YOUR MARKET

your

market You market WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR MARKET

Export facilitators

KEY EXPORT MARKETS, IN ASIA AND THE MIDDLE EAST, ARE DRIVING DEMAND FOR FRESH PRODUCE.

BY CLAIRE MCCLELLAND MARKET DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, VEGETABLESWA

V

VG16085

egetablesWA, in partnership with Growcom and the Tasmanian Fruit and Vegetable Export Facilitation Group have just commenced a threeyear Hort Innovation funded project designed to help upskill Australian vegetable growers to become export ready.

The purpose of the project is to increase Australian vegetable exports by supporting growers to capitalise on commercial business opportunities.

The ‘on the ground’ export facilitators in WA, QLD and TAS will form a facilitator network across Australia. This network will promote collaboration within the industry and provide linkages across the supply chain that will assist in achieving the overarching objective of the Vegetable Industry Export Market Development Strategy of growing the value of vegetable exports by 40% by 2020.

With key export markets in Asia and the Middle East driving demand for fresh produce, there is more opportunity than ever for Australian vegetable growers to become involved with export.

Australia has a number of competitive advantages in the international marketplace including geographical proximity to key markets, counter seasonality and the perception of Australia as a premium quality producer.

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There is no such thing as a ‘one size fits all’ model for export. The support offered through this project will be tailored to individual businesses at different stages of export readiness.

The reality is, many new exporters may be smaller businesses, with limited product range and seasonality so the state based facilitator and the national network aims to connect growers and resources to create collaborative partnerships to increase the likelihood of export success.

The Export Facilitators project will focus on supporting Australian vegetable growers to meet commercial export opportunities by taking opportunities and insights from a range of sources and working to support vegetable growers and other industry stakeholders. This project will also support the delivery of the national Vegetable Industry Export Market Development Strategy and support the national Vegetable Export Development Program (VG16061) project facilitated by the Export Development team at AUSVEG.

YOUR MARKET

33THE Export Facilitation team, Hort Innovation, vegetablesWA, AUSVEG, Growcom, Tasmania Fruit and Vegetable Export Facilitation Group and Austrade.

The Export Facilitators project will provide resources and extension support to help vegetable growers begin to successfully export. In addition to this support, the project will also provide funding to assist export ready vegetable growers in preparing export plans for their businesses. Export has the potential to play an important role in improving business profitability by providing an alternative channel to domestic supermarkets, thereby increasing negotiating power and spreading risk.

MORE INFORMATION

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

Western Australian vegetable growers who are interested in further exploring export opportunities are encouraged to contact Claire McClelland or Manus Stockdale at vegetablesWA via claire.mcclelland@vegetableswa.com.au or manus.stockdale@vegetableswa.com.au.

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YOUR MARKET

Fresh produce data at your doorstep

HARVEST TO HOME IS FREE AND SIMPLE TO USE, VISIT HARVESTTOHOME.NET.AU

How a new data tool is helping growers better understand consumers

V

egetable growers have traditionally relied on limited access to data when trying to understand the performance of their produce and the best vegetable lines to focus on in the future.

Available in one simple and mobilefriendly dashboard, Harvest to Home is an analytics tool funded by Hort Innovation.

With the creation of the Harvest to Home dashboard, deep and valuable insights are now available to put the shopper at the centre of focus, and help growers plan ahead and develop informed longterm strategies to grow their businesses.

Did you know that 44% of households bought broccoli (including baby broccoli and Broccolini®) in September 2016, 3% more than the same period in 2017?

The tool will guide the development of new products that are targeted toward customers’ specific needs, assist growers to be better informed about market opportunities, and provide data to enable industry conversations across the supply chain.

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It’s public, free and simple to use, leveraging the investment of levy funds for vegetable, sweetpotato and onion growers, giving the largest number of insights on marketing performance and shopper behaviour ever, and set to become the go-to tool for Australian growers.

One of the key features of the dashboard is the two year longitudinal data that shows historical trends for up to two years (see Figure 1), providing a close look at each vegetable, the percentage of buying households and the amount they spend on average.

Did you know that senior couples are buying more sweetpotato than any other group? They’re buying it 7.6 times a year, and buying close to 10 kilos of it annually1.

Sounds like a good reason to engage and better understand that shopper group!

Harvest to Home has incredibly detailed information on demographics, and you can look at these groups based on lifestage, annual income, primary shopper age and household size, to really get to know your buyer and be able to provide the best products to them.

In addition to hundreds of data points available on the dashboard, case studies looking at hot topics with deep dive analysis and insights on specific vegetables will be continually uploaded to the site.

All the information can be downloaded for you to keep and refer to at a later time. It can also be viewed on mobile devices and tablets, as well as desktop computers.

1 Nielsen Homescan 52 weeks to Dec. 2, 2017.

2.88

26

2.63

Having access to these consumer behaviour insights will help you to better adapt to market trends and keep up-to-date with the needs and expectations of the modern Australian shopper. Harvest to Home will change the way growers strategise by exploring consumer preferences in a modern, current and easy to use online platform.

This initiative, MT17017, is funded by Hort Innovation using the vegetable, onion and sweetpotato levies and contributions from the Australian Government.

/20

/E

02

/12

/20 4W

/E

07

/10

/20 4W

/E

12

/08

/20 4W

/E

17

/06

/20 4W

/E

22

/04

/20

/20

/02

25 /E

4W

4W

/E

31

/12

/20 4W

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09

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4W

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19 /E

4W

/E 4W

Percentage of households (%)

Average amount purchased ($)

3.13

28

17

3.38

30

17

32

17

3.63

17

3.88

34

17

36

17

4.13

16

4.38

38

16

40

16

4.63

16

42

16

4.88

16

44

16

Percentage of households (%)

YOUR MARKET

Average amount purchased ($)

MORE INFORMATION For additional information, visit www.harvesttohome.net.au

FIGURE 1 Broccoli trended over two years. Percentage of buying households (%) vs average amount purchased ($) Source: Nielsen Homescan, 52 weeks ending 02/12/2017

SOUTHERN FORESTS

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AVERAGE FARM CASH INCOME OF AUSTRALIAN VEGETABLE GROWING OPERATIONS IS ESTIMATED AT AROUND $254,100.

ABARES survey

V egetable farm profits increase, number of farms decreases

T

he average Australian vegetable farm is making more money and earning higher prices for its produce, but cash costs are continuing to rise across the board, with the vegetable industry’s peak body warning many smaller growers are struggling to stay competitive in an increasingly consolidated industry.

The survey also indicated that in the same time total cash costs continued to rise, with average cash costs rising by 29% to an average of over $1 million per farm due to rises in all cost categories captured in the report.

According to AUSVEG, the vegetable industry’s peak industry body, the rise in the industry’s value and the overall increases in average farm incomes are positive signs for the future profitability of the industry, but the steep increase in costs poses a significant risk to many businesses, particularly smallersized farms.

As found by a recent survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES), the average farm cash income of Australian vegetable growing operations is estimated to have increased to around $254,100 as a result of increased vegetable production and higher prices.

The ABARES report, which was a strategic levy investment using the Hort Innovation Vegetable Fund, indicated that the value of the Australian vegetable industry increased to around $3.6 billion in 2015–16, accounting for around 6% of the gross value of agricultural production (see Figure 1).

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

“The rising value of the industry and the increasing trend for Australian vegetable exports shows that our industry has a bright future as a supplier of high quality fresh vegetables to consumers in Australia and around the world,” said AUSVEG CEO James Whiteside.

“Large-scale farms have been mostly responsible for the increase in average farm income, as they can benefit from increased efficiencies and economies of scale.

Cattle and calves Wheat Milk Fruit and nuts Vegetables Sheep and lambs Wool Poultry Barley Canola $b

2

4

6

8

10

12

FIGURE 1 Top 10 Australian agricultural industries, by gross value of production, 2015–16 Source: ABARES

14

YOUR MARKET

“The costs of doing business, particularly for hired labour, seed, freight and fertiliser, have increased significantly over the last 12 months, so while larger businesses are able to increase production and cover these increases, smaller growers often struggle to be competitive, which is driving increased consolidation,” said Mr Whiteside.

Potatoes Mushrooms Tomatoes Onions Melons Carrots Lettuce Beans Broccoli Other vegetables $m

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200

1,400

Contact Shaun Lindhe, AUSVEG National Manager Communications, on (03) 9882 0277 or email shaun.lindhe@ausveg.com.au

FIGURE 2 Gross value of Australian vegetable production, by commodity, 2015–16 Source: ABARES

“This has resulted in increased re-investment into these businesses, including in technological and operational improvements so that they can continue to innovate and develop their businesses to supply vegetables for local and international consumers.”

“The increased production and demand for a wide variety of vegetables, particularly Asian vegetable varieties that were considered niche products not too long ago, shows growers are responding to Australians’ increasing appetite for a

MORE INFORMATION

larger variety of fresh and value-added vegetables, which can demand a higher value at a retail level.”

The number vegetable growing farms has fallen 37% from 2006-07 to 2015–16, driven by primarily by declines to smaller growers, and the proportion of vegetable growers who recorded a negative farm business profit remained at a similar level to the 10 year average, with nearly 60% of vegetable growers recording a negative farm business profit in 2015-16.

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

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YOUR MARKET

P urple sweetcorn g n i h t a is S

cientists in Queensland are developing purple sweetcorn varieties with the horticulture industry to help growers respond to increasingly health-conscious consumers.

Being delivered by the University of Queensland, and jointly funded by the grower-owned research and development company, Hort Innovation, the new varieties are being developed through natural breeding programs.

Head researcher Tim O’Hare said his team were focussed on developing sweetcorn with high levels of specific phytonutrients for human health.

“Not only is purple corn fun, the actual pigments in the varieties we are developing are phytonutrients and they have different health benefits to that of a traditional yellow corn,” he said.

“The anthocyanins have been shown to be linked to cardio-vascular health and by that we mean lowering blood pressure or reducing atherosclerosis, reducing the chance of having a heart attack.”

While the researchers find the taste of the purple corn almost identical to that of traditional varieties, they are in the process of asking the experts.

Consumer and professional ‘taste testing’ panels are assessing the flavour, smell and texture of the varieties, to help the scientists confirm that any alteration does not harm the flavour and quality of the products, and how these new types compare to traditional sweetcorn.

Hort Innovation chief executive John Lloyd said Australia is fortunate to have plenty of access to home-grown, healthy produce.

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WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

33TASTES almost identical to yellow corn.

“Everyone loves Australian sweetcorn. It is extremely healthy and second to none with consistent quality making it sought-after both here and overseas,” he said.

“What this project aims to do is build on that success, and offer growers more varieties to help diversify their product range and respond to the rising uber-healthconscious-consumer pocket of the market.”

This work is being delivered as part of the five-year Naturally Nutritious program. The aim of Naturally Nutritious, is to provide initial research into the development of innovative, appealing products that are nutrient-dense, can PURPLE SWEETCORN be differentiated in the CONTAINS HIGH LEVELS OF marketplace, and are visually attractive and flavoursome.

PHYTONUTRIENTS.

The new corn varieties are being investigated as part of the $10M Naturally Nutritious project, using Hort Innovation’s Health, Nutrition and Food Safety Fund.

This Fund aims to help equip Australian horticulture for the future ahead by facilitating collaborative cross-industry investments focused on longer-term, complex and traditionally underinvested areas of research.

MORE INFORMATION The Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, University of Queensland, is supported by the QLD Government.

For more information head to the website https://horticulture.com.au/co-investmentproject/hn15001/?mc_cid=35df537a4c&mc_ eid=8314dc3719

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HÃY VÀO KHU MẠNG DƯỚI ÐÂY ÐĂNG KÝ NGAY ÐỂ NHỮNG PHẾ LIỆU NÀY ÐƯỢC THU LƯỢM VÀ HỦY BỎ MỘT CÁCH AN TOÀN. www.chemclear.com.au

hoặc gọi số 1800 008 182 để biết thêm chi tiết Rất nhiều những hóa chất được thu lượm là những loại có tiềm năng gây ô nhiễm môi trường ở dạng đậm đặc. Những hóa chất này phải được vận chuyển bằng một phương pháp chuyên môn nhằm mục đích ngăn ngừa việc rò rỉ, văng vãi có thể gây ô nhiễm môi trường.

KHI NÀO MỘT PHẾ LIỆU TRỞ THÀNH MỘT CHẤT PHẾ THẢI? Một sản phẩm hóa học trở thành một chất phế thải, thừa thãi vì chúng: • Ðã phục vụ mục đích yêu cầu và nay không còn nhu cầu sử dụng; • Còn dư hoặc thừa thãi; • Quá hạn sử dụng; • Ðược rút ra khỏi danh sách sản phẩm được phép sử dụng; • Có nhiều giới hạn nghiêm ngặt trong việc sử dụng sản phẩm.

Vietnamese translations

ChemClear® là một chương trình do Agsafe Limited quản lý WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR BUSINESS

WORKING FOR WA GROWERS SINCE 1948 ////////// — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Công tác so sánh với chuẩn cho doanh nghiệp và ngành sản xuất rau cải So sánh với chuẩn là cách làm đơn giản và hiệu quả để rà soát lại toàn bộ các khâu trong doanh nghiệp và xác định đâu là các vấn đề quí vị có thể nhanh chóng khắc phục nhằm gia tăng lợi nhuận. Công tác này cũng đưa ra các ý tưởng cho thấy doanh nghiệp của quí vị hoạt động hiệu quả thế nào so với mức độ trung bình của toàn ngành.

So sánh với chuẩn là gì?

Nói theo cách đơn giản công tác so sánh với chuẩn là so sánh các hoạt động sản xuất kinh doanh của doanh nghiệp quí vị với các giá trị trung bình của ngành. Từ kết quả so sánh này quí vị có thể nhanh chóng rút ra được đâu là điểm cần thay đổi và lảnh vực nào cần duy trì để cải thiện hiệu quả đầu ra cho toàn bộ công sức của quí vị.

So sánh với chuẩn làm được gì cho tôi?

Tôi muốn: N hận được báo cáo tổng quát (miển phí) xem tất cả các lảnh vực trong doanh nghiệp của tôi hoạt động như thế nào.

B iết được một số cách tiết kiệm đơn giản để gia tăng tỉ suất lợi nhuận.

B iết được những khâu nào có chi phí đang vượt trội.

B iết được mình làm hay dở thế nào so với các nông gia cùng ngành C ó được phản hồi từ các chuyên gia trong các lảnh vực khác nhau tại Tây Úc nhận xét xem tôi đang làm ăn như thế nào T hu thập được kiến thức về các hoạt động sản xuất kinh doanh tốt nhất trên toàn tiểu bang để làm lợi cho doanh nghiệp và gia tăng lợi nhuận.

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L à một phần của ngành rau củ quả thịnh vượng của Tây Úc – Tương đương với ngành này ở các nước phát triển trên thế giới.

T rở thành một phần của xu hướng ngành rau củ quả luôn muốn tạo ra sự thay đổi để ứng dụng thành công các biện pháp tốt nhất.

Nếu Đó là những điều quí vị muốn thì công tác so sánh với chuẩn sẽ mang chúng đến cho quí vị.

Tôi được lợi gì khi tham gia?

Một khi quí vị đồng ý tham gia dự án, thứ mà quí vị sẽ nhận được gồm có: • Chúng tôi sẽ đến tận nơi của quí vị để thu thập thông tin và hoàn tất hồ sơ tham gia dự án. Quí vị không phải điền giấy tờ gì cả.

• Bản báo cáo so sánh vói chuẩn (không được công khai cho bất kỳ ai khác) riêng cho doanh nghiệp của quí vị — bao gồm cả hiện trạng về khả năng bền vững của doanh nghiệp.

• Một chuyến viếng thăm nữa đến chổ quí vị để thảo luận chi tiết và giải thích các vấn đề được phát hiện trong báo cáo dựa vào đó quí vị có thể tiến hành sữa đổi ngay.

• Hổ trợ và giải đáp thắc mắc suốt quá trình thực hiện dự án.

Công tác so sánh với chuẩn sẽ bao gồm các vấn đề nào của doanh nghiệp?

• • • • •

Thông tin hoạt động sản xuất Hiệu quả tài chính Chi phí đầu vào và đầu ra Sản xuất và thu nhập Các biện pháp sản xuất chính

Thông tin gì cần phải nêu ra? Đa số thông tin cần thiết cho công việc so sánh với chuẩn khi tham gia đều có sẳn trong hồ sơ của quí vị. Chúng bao gồm sổ sách kế toán, báo cáo sản xuất kinh doanh, báo cáo tiêu thụ nước, các hóa đơn thanh toán.

Tính bảo mật Đương nhiên khi ai xem xét tham gia dự án thì điều quan tâm trước hết là thông tin họ cung cấp sẽ về đâu, sử dụng vào việc gì và sau đó được quản lý như thế nào.

Tất cả thông tin quí vị cung cấp sẽ được tuyệt đối bảo mật và các so sánh chuẩn được thực hiện so với các giá trị trung bình hay các chỉ số làm ăn khác cũng được ẩn danh. Cách làm này cho phép nhìn thấu từng doanh nghiệp trong khi tính bảo mật cho tất cả những người tham gia đều được bảo đảm.

YOUR BUSINESS

Các câu hỏi đáp thường gặp

////////// — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

1. Tôi có phải trả tiền cho việc nầy không?

Không, đây là dịch vụ miển phí cho tất cả nông gia rau cải. Chương trình này do Bộ Nông nghiệp và Phát triển nông thôn (Department of Primary Industries & Regional Development - DPIRD) và Tổ chức cải tiến ngành rau hoa quả (Hort Innovation Australia – HIA) tài trợ.

2. Những ai sẽ xem thông tin/ chuyện gì sẽ xảy ra với thông tin của tôi?

Chỉ có người trực tiếp thu thập thông tin và người phân tích thông tin, nhừng người được cấp chứng nhận, nhìn thấy thông tin của quí vị cung cấp. Thông tin sẽ do trưởng dự án của Hiệp hôi Rau cải Tây Úc hoặc đại diện đến từ công ty Planfarm trực tiếp thu thập và chịu trách nhiệm phân tích. Việc chia sẽ thông tin giửa người thu thập và phân tích được tổ chức rất cẩn trọng và tuyệt đối bảo mật.

3. Planfarm là ai?

Hiệp hội rau cải Tây úc (VegetablesWA) đã từng cộng tác và tiếp tục làm việc với Planfarm. Plan farm sẽ mang 40 năm kinh nghiệm trong chỉ đạo cchương trình so sánh với chuẩn đã tiến hành trên các loại ngủ cốc ờ Tây Úc. Chương trình này tiếp tục cung cấp dữ liệu về hiệu quả hoạt động của trên 550 nông dân ngủ cốc trên toàn tiểu bang. Ngoài lảnh vực phân tích số liệu đại diện của Planfarm cũng sẽ thực hiện một số chuyến thăm trang trại.

Suốt 40 năm của chương trình so sánh với chuẩn trên ngủ cốc chưa bao giờ xảy ra vấn đề rò rỉ thông tin của nông dân.

4. Liệu tôi có lộ bí mật làm ăn không?

Hoàn toàn không. Thông tin thu thập để tìm hiểu mức độ hiệu quả của doanh

Làm cách nào tham gia chương trình? Đơn giản là quí vị cứ liên hệ: Bryn Edwards, Trưởng dự án, theo số (08) 9486 7515 or bryn.edwards@vegetableswa.com.au Sau khi liên hệ quí vị sẽ được yêu cầu đọc kỹ và cùng với chúng tôi ký tên vào giấy đồng ý cung cấp thông tin. Giấy này là thỏa thuận hợp tác chính thức trong đó nêu rỏ thông tin của quí vị sẽ được thu thập sử dụng và quản

nghiệp ra sao chứ không phải bằng cách nào quí vị đạt được mức độ hiệu quả đó.

Cùng với công tác bảo mật được đề cập như trên, đảm bảo rằng thông tin riêng của quí vị sẽ không bao giờ rò rỉ ra ngoài.

5. Liệu tôi có được xem báo cáo kết quả của đối thủ cạnh tranh và liệu người đó có xem được của tôi không?

Không. Tất cả phân tích so sánh hiệu quả của mỗi cá nhân đều so với chuẩn trung bình của toàn ngành và các chỉ số được giấu tên khác. Như vậy quí vi sẽ hoàn toàn không biết ai khác tham gia chương trình này và những người khác cũng vậy.

6. Chương trình này bao gồm những loại cây trồng nào?

Tất cả các loại hoa màu 7. Mất bao nhiêu thời gian?

Chúng tôi sẽ đến tận nơi làm việc với quí vị để quí vị không phải bỏ công ăn việc làm.

Nếu quí vị chuẩn bị sẳn các tài liệu thông tin cần thiết, chỉ cần 2-3 tiếng để chúng tôi cho thông tin vào máy tính cộng với 1-2 tiếng để quí vị xem lại có hài lòng với các thông tin đã cung cấp hay không.

8. Người nào trong doanh nghiệp nên làm việc này?

Chúng tôi đề nghị hoặc là quản lý trang trai, thư ký, hoặc chính chủ farm nếu quí vị không giử số sách ghi chép.

9. Tôi có cần phải đưa tất cả thông tin khi được yêu cầu hay không?

Quí vị nên cung cấp càng nhiều thông tin theo yêu cầu càng tốt. Nên lưu ý rằng càng nhiều thông tin thì càng tốt cho công tác phân tích và so sánh để có kết quả tốt nhất cho quí vị.

lý như thế nào. Điều này cho quí vị thấy tính minh bạch và bảo mật ngay từ ban đầu.

Sau đó thì chúng tôi sẽ tồ chức lịch đến thăm và cung cấp cho quí vị danh sách các loại tài liệu cần thu thập trước mắt.

Điều quan trọng sau cùng So sánh với chuẩn cùng với công tác thu thập thông tin có tiềm năng trở thành một trong

10. Liệu tôi có được báo cáo so sánh hiệu quả làm ăn của tôi với của khu vực địa phương và với cả tiểu bang không? Được. Tuy nhiên chúng tôi cần có 12 người cùng địa phương tham gia để có đủ số liệu phân tích so sánh trong vùng. Tất nhiên là họ đều không biết ai là 12 người nầy. Nếu dưới 12 người thì chúng tôi không tiến hành phân tích so sánh trong cùng một địa phương nhưng quí vị vẫn được so sánh với chuẩn của toàn ngành.

11. Cuối cùng thì thông tin nông dân cung cấp được lưu giử thế nào?

Tất cả thông tin ban đầu đều được lưu một cách an toàn trong hệ thống dử liệu của Planfarm. Tất cả thông tin hỏi đáp với quí vị sẽ bị xóa sau khi đã đưa vào hệ thông dử liệu lưu giử.

Một khi công tác thu thập thông tin của một năm kết thúc tì công tác phân tích toàn bộ số liệu sẽ được thực hiện để nhìn thấy các khuynh hướng phát triển của ngành. Không có tên nông dân nào trong dử liệu phân tích và kết quả sau khi phân tích.

12. Chúng tôi làm gì với kết quả phân tích cho mình?

Người thu thập thông tin trước đây sẽ quay lại gặp quí vị để trao báo cáo kết quả phân tích của chính quí vị. Người này sẽ giải thích cho quí vị các kết quả trong báo cáo và thảo luận với quí vị cách thức quí vị sử dụng kết quả này để thay đổi cách làm và tăng lợi nhuận.

13. Có hại gì cho tôi không?

Chúng tôi cố tìm cũng không thấy quí vị thiệt hại gì khi tham gia!

những tài sản quí giá để hổ trợ nông gia rau cải Tây Úc khi quí vị tìm hướng phát triển cho doanh nghiệp. Đó cũng là lợi thế cạnh tranh với các tiểu bang khác và cũng có thể là các quốc gia khác.

Chúng tôi tin tưởng vào lợi ích nó mang lại cho doanh nghiệp của quí vị và mời quí vị cùng tham gia thực hiện với chúng tôi.

Dự án này do Tổ chức cải tiến ngành Rau hoa quả (Hort Innovation) tài trợ từ nguồn lệ phí nghiên cứu và phát triển ngành rau cải và kinh phí của chính phủ Úc. Để biết thêm thông tin về quỹ tài chính và chiến lược đầu tư sử dụng nguồn lệ phí xin vui lòng vào trang thông tin mạng horticulture.com.au

Contact: Bryn Edwards, Benchmarking Lead, vegetablesWA 702-704 Murray Street, West Perth WA 6005 t: (08) 9486 7515 e: bryn.edwards@vegetableswa.com.au WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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ADOPTING SOIL MOISTURE MONITORING INNOVATION — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Ứng dụng tiến bộ kỹ thuật theo dõi ẩm độ đất để điểu chỉnh biện pháp tưới cho cây trồng — Kinh nghiệm của một nông dân Carnarvon VÕ THẾ TRUYỀN CHUYÊN VIÊN KHUYẾN NÔNG TIẾNG VIỆT, HIỆP HỘI RAU CẢI TÂY ÚC

Suy giảm mực nước ngầm là vấn đề nghiêm trọng ở Tây Úc.

Nhiều dự án như Nước cho lương thực thực phẩm (Carnarvon) Thêm lợi tức cho mỗi giọt nước tưới (Tây Úc), Khảo sát biện pháp bón phân tưới nước và quản lý sâu bệnh hại của nông dân (Perth và Carnarvon) đã được thực hiện để tìm kiếm thêm nguồn nước cũng như tăng cường hiệu quả sử dụng nước.

Cùng đồng hành với những cố gắng đó nông dân trồng rau cải Tâu Úc cũng tinh chỉnh các biện pháp tưới truyền thống để khai thác triệt để hiệu quả sữ dụng nước nhằm gia tăng lợi nhuận.

Bài viết này chia sẽ kinh nghiệm của một nông dân trồng cà Carnarvon – anh Trần Quốc Sự - về quá trình học hỏi tích lũy kinh nghiệm khi thử nghiệm các tiến bộ kỹ thuật để theo dõi ẩm độ đất. Quá trình tìm hiểu sự biến động ẩm độ đất trong mùa vụ canh tác và kết hợp chúng vào cách tính toán biện pháp tưới của anh đáng để trao đổi thảo luận.

1. Thử nghiệm áp dụng ống đo ẩm độ đất (trương lực kế — tensiometer) Thử nghiệm đầu tiên của anh Sự để tìm hiểu ẩm độ đất là sử dụng trương lực kế (tensiometer) vào khoảng 2011. Loại ống đo anh thử nghiệm hiển thị số đo có giá trị âm trên đồng hồ.

Kỳ vọng khi thử nghiệm: Anh Sự mua các trương lực kế có độ dài khác nhau tại địa phương để theo dõi ẩm độ ở các độ sâu khác nhau trong đất với suy nghĩ rằng các dụng cụ này có thể hổ trợ việc tính toán biện pháp tưới.

33TRẦN Quốc Sự và Hệ thống theo dõi ẩm độ đất qua mạng thông tin trực tuyến

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Thử nghiệm: Việc lắp đạt các ống đo trương lực kế trong đất và đọc số hiển thị trên đồng hồ ban đầu có vẻ dể dàng. Nhưng ngược lại, hiểu rỏ ý nghĩa của các con số và hiểu được chúng tương quan thế nào với tình trang nước trong đất để thiết lập công thức tưới thì không dể chút nào.

YOUR INDUSTRY

Trên nguyên lý ống đo ẩm độ đất đo lường mức độ “khó khăn” khi trích xuất nước trong đất (ở các độ sâu khác nhau) để cho ra “chỉ dẫn tốt nhất về mức độ hữu dụng của nước cho cây trồng”. Chất lỏng bị hút ra hay rút vào ống qua đầu sứ (tùy thuộc vào lượng nước hữu dụng trong đất) tạo ra áp lực âm được xem như tương đương với lực hút yêu cầu để cây trồng hấp thụ nước trong đất.

33HÌNH 1. ống đo ẩm độ trích dẩn từ nguồn internet

Bài học: Khi mua các dụng cụ thì các thông tin về cách sử dụng và bảo trì cũng được nhân viên của hàng cung cấp. Nhân việ kỳ thuật tại địa phương dôi khi cũng tư vấn hổ trợ thêm. Tuy nhiên do không sử dụng tiếng Anh nên anh Sự khó hiểu hết trọn vẹn các thông tin hướng dẫn và anh cũng nghĩ rằng việc thử nghiệm thực tế hàng ngày có thể giúp anh hiểu thêm từ từ cho tới khi thành thạo.

Trên thực tế anh Sự cảm thấy khó khăn để hiểu rỏ các ý nghĩa thông số trên đồng hồ, chúng có tương quan như thế nào với tình trạng nước trong các tầng đất khác nhau, tại sao đôi khi đồng hồ hiển thị giá trị số không suốt một thời gian. Thực tế cho thấy thật khó khăn khi tìm lý do tại sao đôi khi các thông số đọc được trên đồng hồ không phản ánh đúng tình trạng ẩm độ trong đất và sự sinh trưởng của cây trồng mà anh quan sát. Anh Sự không thấy có lợi ích rỏ ràng khi áp dụng dụng cụ đo ẩm độ đất này. Hơn nữa việc theo dõi và trực tiếp đọc thông số hằng ngày cũng tương đối mất thời giờ và ảnh hưởng công việc. Ứng dụng: Sau một thời gian thử nghiệm anh Sự dần bỏ thiết bị đo ẩm độ đất này.

Thảo luận: Ống đo ẩm độ đất (tensiometer) là loại tiến bộ kỹ thuật hàm chứa kiến thức.

Loại tiến bộ kỹ thuật này đòi hỏi người ứng dụng phải có mức độ kiến thức nhất định về vật lý và ngành khoa học đất để áp dụng nó như là một công cụ hổ trợ hiệu quả trong việc tính toán biện pháp tưới.

Ống đo ẩm độ đất còn cần kỹ năng tương đối khi vận hành và diển giải các thông số để tạo ra ý nghĩa thực hành. Các vấn đề thường gặp khi ứng dụng loại dụng cụ này là đặt ống đo không đúng vị trí vùng rể hay vùng có liên quan trực tiếp đến trạng thái nước trong đất, và tình trạng đồng hồ duy trì chỉ số không. Ống đo này cũng yêu cầu bảo trì thường xuyên. Đôi khi không khí lọt được vào trong ống qua đầu sứ và qua các ron đệm, đặc biệt là khi đất quá khô, làm ảnh hưởng đến chỉ số đo. Nông dân không phải lúc nào cũng hiểu hết các khía cạnh kỹ thuật này nên khó ứng dụng thành công.

Tóm lại, nông dân với kiến thức khoa học có mức độ, đặc biệt là nông dân không thạo tiếng Anh, thì cần có hướng dẫn và thị phạm đầy đủ để ứng dụng thành công công cụ này vào việc tính toán biện pháp tưới.

33HÌNH 2: Tin nhắn cảnh báo

2. Hệ thống theo dõi ẩm độ đất qua mạng thông tin trực tuyến Anh Sự được làm quen với hệ thống theo dõi ẩm độ đất qua mạng thông tin trực tuyến đầu năm 2017 với một năm thử nghiệm miển phí khi anh tham gia vào một dự án đánh giá các biện pháp tưới nước, bón phân và quản lý sâu bệnh hại của nông dân.

Dự án này do Hội đồng phát triển Gascoyne và Bộ Nông nghiệp tài trợ cùng với sự hổ trợ của Hiệp hội rau cải Tây Úc. Qua thử nghiệm này anh Sự học thêm được nhiều điều và nhanh chóng nhận ra lợi ích của nó trong việc hổ trợ xác định cách tưới. Sau thử nghiệm đó anh đầu tư thêm 2 bộ nữa cho các lô khác trong đất mình.

Kỳ vọng: Ban đâu khi tham gia anh Sự hy vọng học được thêm điều gì đó có lợi cho công việc tưới nước và tham gia thử nghiệm thiết bị mới mà không tốn chi phí mua thiết bị thử nghiệm và dịch vụ tư vấn kỳ thuật kèm theo.

Thử nghiệm: Hệ thống theo dõi ẩm độ đất qua mạng thông tin trực tuyến là một tổ hợp gồm các thiết bị đo ẩm độ đất kết nối với bộ thu phát dử liệu kỹ thuật số. Thật ra các thiết bị đo ẩm độ là các ống đo độ ẩm (tensiometer) như anh Sự đã áp dụng thử trước đây, chỉ khác là loại mới này kết nối được với bộ thu phát dử liệu kỹ thuật số.

Bộ thu phát này bao gồm một bộ thu thập dự, trử dử liệu và một bộ thu phát tín hiệu số. Bộ này nhận thông số từ các ống đo ẩm độ đất và được lập trình để gởi tín hiệu về mạng thông tin trực tuyến của công ty cung cấp dịch vụ theo chu kỳ thời gian được ấn định để lưu trử, phân tích và cho ra các đồ thị.

Trong thời gian một năm thử nghiệm thì chuyên gia về ẩm độ đất, Scott Brain - làm việc cho chi nhánh công ty dịch vụ Field Capacity tại Carnarvon, cùng trực tiếp lắp đặt thiết bị và cài đặt chương trình hợp lý nhất cho trường hợp cụ thể của đất anh Sự.

Các điểm then chốt như điểm tưới bù và điểm báo thiếu nước được thiết lập sao cho phù hợp với sự phát triển của cây cà. Cảnh báo cận điểm thiếu nước và cảnh báo thiếu nước dưới dạng tin nhắn điện thoại được gởi đến điện thoại anh Sự khi hệ thống phát hiện vấn đề.

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YOUR INDUSTRY

ADOPTING SOIL MOISTURE MONITORING INNOVATION — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION (CONT.) SuTran Email Report from 13/Oct/2017

CGA_007 CGA_007 - Stacked

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Facts & Figures

trong trường hợp anh Sự nhưng hiệu quả sử dụng nước gia tăng và cây trồng phát triển tốt hơn.

SuTranA SuTran A

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Facts & Figures

Ngoài bộ thiết bị thử nghiệm miển phí ban đầu, do thấy được lợi ích của ứng dụng này anh Sự đã đầu tư thêm 2 hệ thống nữa cho các lô đất khác trong trang trai.

Thảo luận:

SuTranB SuTranB

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Facts & Figures

• Mặc dù hệ thống thiết bị theo dõi ẩm độ đất này phức tạp hơn so với ống đo ẩm độ đất nhưng nếu được tập huấn hướng dẫn thích hợp cùng với sự hổ trợ tư vấn thường xuyên của chuyên gia thì việc ứng dụng tiến bộ kỹ thuật này cũng không quá khó khăn kể cả với những nông dân không noái tiếng Anh. • Có thêm hệ thống này cũng không quá ảnh hưởng đến công việc thường ngày vì các thông số có thể được xem trên điện thoại một cách thuận tiện.

33HÌNH 3: Báo cáo dưới dạng đồ thị

Công ty cung cấp dịch vụ cũng thiết kế các dạng đồ thị sao cho các thông tin phức tạp được trình bày một cách ngắn gọn nhưng đầy đủ và dể hiểu. Khả năng theo dõi số liệu qua điện thoại di động tạo điều kiện dể dàng cho người ứng dụng. Quan trọng hơn nữa là các thông tin cảnh báo khi có vấn đề và báo cáo định kỳ còn được gởi về bằng tin nhắn điện thoại và bằng thư điện tử rất tiện lợi.

Bài học: Anh Sự cho biết rằng ứng dụng này đã giúp anh có thêm kiến thức và kinh nghiệm để phân tích chi tiết thay đổi xảy ra với ẩm độ trong đất phục vụ cho việc tính toán ngày tưới và số giờ tưới.

Mặc dù thiết bị này phức tạp hơn ống đo ẩm độ đất anh Sự đã thử qua trước đây nhưng kết quả được trình bày một cách ngắn gọn, đầy đủ và dể hiểu.

Cảnh báo cận thiếu nước và cảnh báo thiếu nước được gửi bằng tin nhắn tỏ ra hữu dụng để quyết định lúc cần tưới và thời gian tưới.

Tuy nhiên anh Sự cũng nhận ra có độ trể giửa thời điểm bù thêm nước, thời điểm thiết bị thu nhận số liệu và hồi đáp kết quả qua tin nhắn. Vì vậy anh Sự cho rằng không lệ lệ thuộc hoàn toàn vào thiết bị này mà

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nên kết hợp với các yếu tố khác như quan sát cây trồng, thời tiết, ẩm độ đất tại từng thời điểm trước khi đưa ra quyết định tưới.

Các báo cáo bằng đồ thị trong đó diển biến ẩm độ được đối chiếu với các đường ranh ở giá trị nào cần tưới bù và lúc nào thiếu nước trong vùng rể giúp dể liên tưởng bằng hình ảnh sự biến động của ẩm độ trong đất. Điều này giúp việc tiếp thu dể dàng và nhanh hơn. Các thông số ở độ sâu 60cm gần như ổn định giúp anh cảm thấy yên tâm rằng lượng nước tưới không dư thừa thấm xuống quá vùng rể, hạn chế thất thoát phân bón và ảnh hưởng môi trường.

Duy trì trao đổi thường xuyên với chuyên gia về ẩm độ đất là rất quan trọng trong quá trình học hỏi. Ngoài trợ giúp lắp đặt và thiết kế ban đầu, chuyên gia còn giúp tiếp tục giải đáp thắc mắc và hổ trợ kiến thức, kỹ thuật khi người ứng dụng gặp vấn đề khó khăn. Ứng dụng: Sau một năm thử nghiệm hệ thống theo dõi ẩm độ đất qua mạng thông tin trực tuyến anh Sự trở nên tự tin hơn. Biện pháp tưới cũng dần thay đổi từ tưới cách ngày với thời gian tưới kéo dài sang tưới mỗi ngày với thời gian tưới ngắn hơn. Mặc dù ứng dụng này không giúp tiết kiệm nước

• Nên nhớ rằng báo cáo kết quả của dự án Tăng thêm lợi tức trên từng giọt nước tưới đã đề cập đến vấn đề tưới cách ngày với thời gian tưới dài làm cho cây trồng luôn thiếu nước trong ngày thứ nhì sau khi tưới ảnh hưởng đến năng suất. Việc chuyển đổi sang tưới mỗi ngày với thời gian tưới ngắn hơn (sau khi ứng dụng tiến bộ kỳ thuật theo dõi ẩm độ đất) là bước đi đúng. Kết quả là cây trồng phát triển tốt hơn.

• Được tạo điều kiện thử nghiệm và dịch vụ tư vấn miển phí cũng là yếu tố giúp nông dân tiếp cận và đẫn đến ứng dụng tiến bộ kỹ thuật.

THÊM THÔNG TIN Võ Thế Truyền tại Hiệp hội rau cải Tây Úc số 0457 457 559, truyen.vo@vegetableswa.com.au

YOUR PRODUCTION

RESEARCH INDICATES PROMISING TPP CONTROL FOR GROWERS — VIETNAMESE TRANSLATION

Nghiên cứu chỉ ra triển vọng khống chế rầy cà chua khoai tây TPP cho nông gia trên các loại hoa màu khác nhau và trong các điều kiện canh tác khác nhau”.

Ngay khi kết thúc chương trình nghiên cứu và phát triển này vào tháng 5/2018, kết quả nghiên cứu của các thí nghiệm thuốc diệt côn trùng và các tác nhân phòng trừ sinh học sẽ được phát hành trên trang thông tin internet và trên các ấn bản của ngành. Các hội nghị trong ngành để thông tin kết quả cũng sẽ được tổ chức.

33ẤU trùng chuồn chuồn cỏ Lacewing ăn ấu trùng rầy TPP.

NGƯỜI DỊCH: VÕ THẾ TRUYỀN INDUSTRY EXTENSION OFFICER, VEGETABLESWA

Kết quả của các nghiên cứu do Bộ Nông nghiệp và phát triển nông thôn (DPIRD) tiến hành đang cho ra các tín hiệu khả quan có nhiều phương án đối phó trong tương lai để phòng trừ rầy cà chua khoai tây TPP (Bactericera cockerelli) cho ngành rau củ quả.

Vào tháng 9/2017 Bộ đã khởi động một chương trình nghiên cứu kéo dài 9 tháng để tăng cường sự hiểu biết về các phương án khống chế rầy TPP cũng như tăng cường khả năng của nông gia trong việc quản lý loài gây hại này.

Quyền trưởng ban An ninh sinh học thực vật Sonya Broughton cho biết rằng công tác nghiên cứu cho đến nay bao gồm các thí nghiệm trong phòng và trong nhà kính về hiệu lực của một số thuốc diệt côn trùng và một số tác nhân phòng trừ sinh học trên rầy TPP. Tiến sỹ Broughton nói: “Các thí nghiệm trong nhà kính nhằm xác định hiệu lực của 14 loại thuốc diệt côn trùng và 6 loại tác nhân phòng trừ sinh học”. “Kết quả bước đầu của các thí nghiệm trong nhà kính này cho thấy

hoạt chất pymetrozyne không có hiệu quả không chế rầy TPP khi abamectin thì có kết quả rất tốt. Kết quả này cũng tương đồng với các kết quả nghiên cứu ở New Zealand, nơi rầy TPP đã thiết lập quần thể lâu dài”. “Và điều này phần nào cũng có thể là do rầy TPP tìm thấy ở Tây Úc có cùng kiểu sinh học với rầy TPP New Zealand”.

Tiến sỹ Broughton cũng nói thêm rằng “các nghiệm thức xử lý với hoạt chất Cyantraniliprole, flocinamid and spirotetramat cũng mang lại kết quả”. “ Khi các thí nghiệm kết thúc chúng tôi sẽ quyết định xem liệu các hoạt chất khống chế rầy TPP đã được đăng ký (lưu hành trên thị trường) đối với đối tượng gây hại này trên hoa màu hay chưa, nếu chưa thì bằng cách nào chúng tôi có thể tiến hành xem xét vấn đề này”.

Sáu loài tác nhân phòng trừ sinh học được sử dụng trong khía cạnh quản lý dịch hại tổng hợp của nghiên cứu này đều là các loài ăn sâu bọ phổ biến.

Tiến sỹ Broughton nói: “ các loài bọ rùa (Harmonia octomaculata) tỏ ra có tác dụng tốt (diệt rầy TPP) trong phòng thí nghiệm, trong khi các loài ong mirid chứng tỏ hiệu quả nhất trong điều kiện nhà kính”. “Các kết quả nghiên cứu này cũng chỉ ra rằng còn cần phải tiến hành nghiên cứu thêm để xác định loài nào là tác nhân phòng trừ sinh học tự nhiên phù hợp nhất chống lại rầy TPP

Chương trình nghiên cứu và phát triển do Bộ Nông nghiệp chủ trì này là một hợp phần của kế hoạch được thỏa thuận cấp liên bang chuyển hướng sang quản lý rầy TPP (thay vì mục tiêu ban đầu là tiêu diệt rầy hoàn toàn). Kế hoạch này nhằm phát triển các hệ thống nghiên cứu khoa học, an ninh sinh học và hoạt động kinh doanh hổ trợ cho nông gia và cho toàn ngành trong việc quản lý rầy TPP.

33BỌ rùa đang ăn ấu trùng rầy TPP.

Kế hoạch này do chính phủ liên bang, chính phủ tiểu bang và ngành (nông nghiệp) tài trợ.

Thông tin chi tiết về các biểu hiện triệu chứng rầy TPP, các phương án phòng trừ có trên trang thông tin internet của Bộ.

THÊM THÔNG TIN Xin liên hệ: Jodie Thomson/Dionne Tindale, chuyên viên thông tin báo chí, (08) 9368 3937.

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

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YOUR PRODUCTION Permits

Permits Permit No.

114

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER11747

2,2-Dichloropropionic Acid

Carrot crops (for seed)

Promotion of bolting and grass weed control

30-Nov-19

PER14722

Abamectin

Capsicum, cucumber, eggplant, zucchini, tomato, sweet corn, chilli, paprika, potato, snow pea and sugar snap pea crops

Tomato red spider mite

30-Sep-20

PER14696

Abamectin

Head lettuce

Two-spotted mite

31-Mar-19

PER12846

Abamectin

Lettuce (hydroponic), snow peas and sugar snap peas

Two-spotted mite

30-Sep-20

PER13300

Abamectin

Rhubarb

Broad mite

31-Dec-21

PER14536

Abamectin

Sweet corn, chillies, paprika, spring onions and shallots

Two-spotted mite

31-Dec-23

PER13716

Abrade Abrasive Barrier Insecticide

Tomatoes (protected)

Various insect pests

31-Jan-20

PER12378

Acephate

Tomatoes and sweet peppers

Western flower thrips

31-Oct-20

PER14210

Acramite Miticide

Lettuce

Two-spotted (red spider) mite

30-Sep-18

PER82341

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Cucumber, peppers (sweet and chilli), zucchini, eggplant, sin qua, bitter melon, tomato and snake bean

Two-spotted mite

31-Mar-21

PER14425

Acramite Miticide (bifenazate)

Rubus and rubus hybrids

Two-spotted mite and European red spider mite

30-Sep-18

PER13795

Agpro Propazine 500

Carrot crops

Nightshade, fat hen and wireweed

31-Mar-18

PER14457

Alpha-cypermethrin

Chicory, leeks, spring onions, shallots

Red-legged earth mite, Onion thrips

30-Jun-19

PER80138

Alpha-cypermethrin

Cucurbits

Cucumber fruit fly

31-Mar-20

PER80099

Alpha-Cypermethrin

Fruiting vegetables, except cucurbits

Mediterrean fruit fly and Queeensland fruit fly

31-Mar-20

PER13301

Alpha-cypermethrin

Lettuce

Red-legged earth mite and vegetable weevil

31-May-20

PER80282

Alpha-cypermethrin

Onions

Onion thrips

30-Nov-20

PER13441

Ambush Emulsifiable Concentrate Insecticide

Rhubarb

Green peach aphid, green looper, light brown apple moth and budworms

31-Mar-27

PER13717

Amistar Top (azoxystrobin + difenoconazole)

Tomatoes (protected)

Powdery mildew

31-May-21

PER84155

Applaud Insecticide

Tomatoes

Greenhouse whitefly

PER13723

Avatar

Tomatoes (protected)

Heliothis (corn earworm), looper, cluster caterpillar, leafhoppers, green mirid

31-May-18

PER82992

Avatar (indoxacarb)

Asparagus

Garden weevil

31-May-22

PER14816

Azoxystrobin

Carrot

Powdery mildew, sclerotinia rot (white mould), black rot

30-Jun-19

PER14430

Azoxystrobin (Amistar 250 SC)

Lettuce

Bottom rot

30-Jun-22

PER10845

Barmac Zineb Fungicide

Brassica leafy vegetables

Cercospora leaf spot and downy mildew

31-May-20

PER14773

Basagran (bentazone-sodium)

Onions

Broadleaf weeds

31-Jan-23

PER10976

Bentazone

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-20

PER80558

Bifenazate

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Various mites

31-Aug-20

PER81196

Bifenthrin

Cucumber, brassica vegetables, lettuce, beans, peppers, eggplant and peas

Specified whitefly and mite species

31-Mar-21

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Expiry date

6-Jul-18

YOUR PRODUCTION

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

PER10988

Bladex 900 WG (cyanazine)

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-20

PER14602

Boscalid, Iprodione and Chlorothalonil

Onion (bulb and seed)

Botrytis neck-rot

30-Sep-18

PER14840

Bupirimate

Cucurbits and peppers

Powdery mildew

30-Sep-19

PER14036

Bupirimate

Eggplant

Powdery mildew

28-Feb-23

PER14326

Captan

Leafy lettuce, cucumber, capsicum and chilli

Grey mould

30-Nov-21

PER13725

Chess

Tomatoes (protected)

Greenhouse whitefly, silverleaf whitefly, Green peach aphid

31-May-18

PER11768

Chlorpyrifos

Pumpkin

African black beetle

31-Mar-21

PER14583

Chlorpyrifos

Various vegetable crops

Various insect pests

31-Mar-19

PER82459

Clethodiim

Brassica vegetables

Various grass weeds

30-Sep-21

PER12351

Confidor Guard Soil

Leafy lettuce, okra

Silverleaf whitefly

30-Jun-20

PER14626

Copper as tribasic copper sulphate

Garlic

Downy mildew

30-Jun-19

PER14842

Copper Oxychloride, Cuprous Oxide or Cupric Hydroxide

Spring onions and shallots

Downy mildew

30-Sep-19

PER84805

cyantraniliprole

Fruiting vegetables, root and tuber vegetables

Tomato potato psyllid

31-Dec-22

PER14351

DC-Tron Plus

Lettuce

Various bugs

31-Mar-21

PER82551

Diazinon

Leeks and cauliflower

Onion fly and onion seedling maggot

31-Mar-21

PER82745

Difenconazole

Silverbeet, spinach, chicory, endive

Fungal diseases

31-Aug-20

PER82136

Difenconazole

Brassica vegetables

Ring spot

30-Sep-20

PER14035

Diflufenican

Peas

Broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-23

PER12506

Dimethoate

Eggplant

Queensland fruit fly and Mediterranean fruit fly

31-Oct-18

PER13170

Dimethoate

Melons including watermelons (post-harvest)

Various fruit fly species

30-Sep-20

PER14473

Dimethomorph and Mancozeb

Leeks, spring onions and shallots

Downy mildew, purple blotch and botrytis rots

30-Jun-18

PER14958

Dimethomorph and Mancozeb (Acrobat Fungicide)

Brassica leafy vegetables, leafy lettuce and other leafy vegetables

Downy mildew and other diseases

31-Dec-22

PER81702

Dominex Duo EC Insecticide

Cucumbers

Loopers

31-Mar-21

PER13154

Dual Gold Herbicide

Brassica leafy vegetables

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

31-Mar-22

PER13695

Ecocarb Fungicide

Various vegetables

Powdery mildew

30-Sep-20

PER14077

Eco-Oil (Botanical Oil)

Greenhouse and hydroponic capsicum, cucumber and lettuce

Silverleaf whitefly

30-Sep-23

PER14907

Emamectin

Brassica leafy vegetables

Various pests

30-Nov-19

PER81914

Emamectin

Celery and eggplant

Heliothis, light brown apple moth and cluster caterpillar

31-Oct-19

PER84808

Ethofumesate (Tramat)

Onions

Broadleaf and grass weeds

28-Feb-23

PER82904

Fenhexamid

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Grey mould and chocolate spot

30-Jun-22

PER83203

Fipronil (REGENT 200 SC)

Celery and field lettuce

Western flower thrips, onion thrips

13-Mar-22

PER14050

Flint 500 WG Fungicide

Cucumbers and capsicums (protected)

Powdery mildew

30-Jun-23

PER14484

Fluazifop

Eggplant, shallots, spring onions, leeks, garlic, parsnips and sweet potato

Grass weeds

31-Mar-18

PER82556

Fluazifop

Various vegetables

Grass weeds

31-Jan-23

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

115

YOUR PRODUCTION

permits (cont.)

Permit No.

116

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER84740

Fluazifop-P as butyl

Various root crops

Grass weeds including couch and Guinea grass

30-Apr-19

PER82461

Folicur 430 SC Fungicide

Beetroot, chicory, endive, radish, silverbeet

Scletotinia rot

31-Aug-20

PER13305

Glyphosate (shielded sprayer)

Carrots

Certain broadleaf and grass weeds

30-Jun-20

PER11438

Glyphosate (shielded sprayer)

Specified vegetables

Grass and broadleaf weeds

30-Jun-19

PER14765

Hexythiazox (Calibre 100 EC miticide)

Cucurbit vegetables, fruiting vegetables, potatoes, snow and sugar snap peas

Tomato spider mite, Twospotted mite, broad mite, tomato russet mite

31-Mar-18

PER81260

Imidacloprid

Beetroot

Aphids and thrips

30-Sep-20

PER14584

Imidacloprid

Brassica leafy vegetables

Aphids, whitefly and thrips

31-Mar-19

PER10918

Imidacloprid

Carrot, leafy lettuce, silverbeet and spinach

Greenhouse whitefly and aphids

31-May-18

PER14212

Imidacloprid

Rhubarb

Aphids

31-Dec-22

PER10938

Imidacloprid

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Greenhouse whitefly

31-Jul-18

PER12489

Imidacloprid

Celery, cucumber, peppers and cape gooseberry

Aphids

31-May-20

PER14843

Indoxacarb (Avatar Insecticide)

Celery

Heliothis, lightbrown apple moth, lucerne leaf roller and vegetable weevil

30-Sep-19

PER14142

Ioxynil

Spring onions, shallots and Welsh onions

Broad leaf and grass weeds

31-Mar-19

PER14628

Ioxynil

Garlic

Broad leaf and grass weeds

31-Jul-20

PER14051

Iprodione

Broccoli seed treatment

Rhizoctinia

31-Mar-23

PER80910

Iprodione

Brussels sprouts and eggplant

Grey mould

31-Jul-20

PER83277

Iprodione

Garlic

Botrytis

31-Jul-21

PER84955

Iprodione

Green beans, carrots, spinach and silverbeet

Sclerotinia, black rot and grey Mould

28-Feb-23

PER11949

Lambda-Cyhalothrin

Beetroot and radish

Various insects

31-Mar-20

PER14471

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Shallots and spring onions

Various pests

31-Mar-19

PER14033

Lambda-cyhalothrin

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Pasture webworm, cutworm, Rutherglen bug and thrips

31-May-18

PER11991

Legend Fungicide (quinoxyfen)

Silverbeet

Powdery mildew

31-Mar-21

PER13496

Linuron

Celery

Range of weeds

30-Apr-22

PER13367

Linuron

Leeks and celeriac

Grass and broadleaf weeds

30-Apr-21

PER12357

Linuron

Parsnips

Grass and broadleaf weeds

30-Sep-20

PER81713

Mainman 500WG Insecticide

Tomatoes

Silverleaf whitefly

31-Mar-21

PER13031

Maldison

Capsicums and cucumbers

Fruit fly

30-Nov-18

PER13653

Maldison

Leeks, spring onions and shallots

Onion thrips

28-Feb-23

PER13790

Mancozeb

Date palm, industrial hemp, culinary herbs and tea tree

Specific fungal diseases

30-Jun-18

PER14046

Mancozeb

Cucumbers

Grey mould

31-Mar-23

PER80538

Mancozeb

Parsley, chicory and brassica leafy vegetables (brassica spp.)

Anthracnose and septoria

31-Mar-25

PER14470

Mancozeb and Dimethomorph

Snow peas

Downy mildew

30-Apr-22

PER14045

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Brassica leafy vegetables, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, chicory, endive, radicchio, rocket, carrots and parsnip

Various fungal diseases

31-Mar-22

PER14008

Mancozeb + Metalaxyl

Garlic

Downy mildew and purple blotch

31-Mar-23

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Expiry date

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No.

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER83765

Maxim XL

Spinach and silverbeet

Damping off

Expiry date 30-Sep-20

PER13152

MCPA 250 Selective Herbicide

Rhubarb

Broadleaf weeds

31-Dec-21

PER14318

Metalaxyl-M

Lettuce

Damping off

30-Sep-22

PER82055

Methabenzthiazuron (Tribunil Herbicide)

Garlic

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-21

PER14742

Methabenzthiazuron (Tribunil Herbicide)

Leeks, spring onions and shallots

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

30-Jun-21

PER14047

Methidathion

Peppers and eggplant

Rutherglen bug

30-Jun-18

PER14890

Methomyl (Lannate-L)

Spring onions and shallots

Western flower thrips

31-Oct-19

PER80954

Methoxyfenozide

Snow peas and sugar peas

Native budworm, tomato grub and cluster caterpillar

30-Sep-20

PER84531

Methoxyfenozide

Sweet corn

Lepidopteran pests

31-Oct-20

PER13626

Metolachlor

Spinach, silverbeet, spring onions, shallots, green beans and navy beans

Various broadleaf and grass weeds.

30-Jun-22

PER84245

Movento 240 SC

Potato, sweet potato, tomato, capsicum, chilli, peppers, eggplant

Tomato potato psyllid

28-Feb-20

PER11127

Nufarm Filan Fungicide

Peppers celery

Sclerotinia rot

30-Jun-18

PER14650

Paramite (etoxazole)

Melons

Two-spotted mite

31-May-18

PER82460

Paraamite selective miticide

Cucurbits, Asian cucurbits

Two-spotted mite and red spider mite

31-Jul-22

PER14432

Pendimethalin

Brussel sprouts

Weeds

30-Jun-19

PER14127

Pendimethalin

Brassica leafy vegetables and rocket

Weeds

31-Aug-18

PER14886

Pendimethalin

Garlic

Grass and broadleaf weeds

30-Sep-19

PER14858

Pendimethalin

Parsnip

Grasses and broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-20

PER14048

Pendimethalin

Spring onions, shallots and radish

Various broadleaf and grass weeds

31-Mar-23

PER14049

Permethrin (Ambush )

Celery

Helicoverpa and looper

31-Mar-23

PER81241

Phenmedipham (Betanal)

Lettuce, chicory, endive, radicchio and spinach

Broadleaf weeds

31-May-20

PER8930

Phorate

Eggplant, peppers, shallots and spring onions

Aphids, jassids, mites, thrips and onion maggot

31-Jul-19

PER13902

Phorate

Sweet potatoes

Aphids, thrips, jassids and organophosphate susceptible two-spotted mite and wireworm

31-Mar-23

PER14493

Phos acid

Rhubarb

Downy mildew

31-Jan-19

PER13698

Phosphorous

Lettuce (leaf+hydro), parsley, coriander fennel and bulb (allium) vegetables

Downy mildew

30-Sep-22

PER81006

Phosphorous (phosphonic) acid

Native shrub, heath, woodland and forest vegetation

Phytophthora dieback

31-Oct-18

PER11951

Phosphorous acid

Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, silverbeet, endive, radicchio, chicory and processing peas

Downy mildew

31-Mar-20

PER81408

Phosphorous acid

Capsicum

Phytophthora Soil Fungus

30-Sep-20

PER13351

Pirimicarb

Eggplant

Aphids

31-Mar-19

PER85307

Pirimicarb

Faba bean, broad bean and vetches

Bean aphid

31-Oct-19

PER14864

Pirimicarb

Sweet potato, brassica leafy vegetables, chicory radicchio and rocket

Aphids

30-Jun-19

PER82359

Pirimor (pirimicarb)

Peppers â&#x20AC;&#x201D; chilli

Aphids

31-Mar-21

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

117

YOUR PRODUCTION

permits (cont.)

Permit No.

118

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER10875

Pirimor WG Aphicide (pirimicarb)

Celeriac

Aphids

Expiry date 30-Sep-20

PER14071

Pirmicarb

Sweet corn, spring onion, celery

Aphids

30-Jun-19

PER13724

Previcur

Tomatoes (protected)

Root rot

31-May-21

PER13720

Pristine

Tomatoes (protected)

Powdery mildew

31-May-21

PER13114

Prometryn

Celeriac

Grass weeds listed on label

31-Mar-22

PER12048

Prometryn

Parsnip and carrot

Weeds

30-Sep-20

PER14385

Prometryn

Specified root and tuber vegetables

Grass and broadleaf weeds

31-Mar-19

PER11441

Propachlor

Radish, swede, turnip

Grass and broadleaf weeds

31-Dec-19

PER12008

Propachlor

Spinach, silverbeet, spring onions, shallots, rocket and brassica leafy veg

Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds

30-Nov-25

PER13444

Propiconazole

Radishes

Cercospora

31-May-22

PER13116

Propiconazole

Sweet corn

Northern corn leaf blight

31-Mar-21

PER14479

Propiconazole

Various vegetable crops

Various pests

30-Nov-19

PER10677

Propyzamide

Chicory and endive

Grass and broadleef weeds

30-Apr-23

PER14892

Pymetrozine (Chess Insecticide)

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Aphid pests

31-May-22

PER80891

Pyranica Miticide

Cucumbers

Two-spotted mite and European red mite

30-Sep-20

PER84442

Pyrethrins

Vegetables

Tomato potato psylllid

31-May-19

PER14505

Pyrimethanil

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Grey mould (botrytis)

30-Jun-19

PER80210

Pyrimethanil

Protected tomatoes

Botrytis

30-Jun-20

PER14701

Pyriproxyfen

Beans

Silverleaf whitefly

30-Jun-20

PER85003

Ranman 400 SC Fungicide

Spinach and silverbeet

Pythium damping off

28-Feb-23

PER14695

Ridomil Gold 25G (metalaxyl-M)

Parsnips

Pythium spp. and Phytophthora spp.

30-Jun-19

PER13673

Ridomil Gold MZ WG

Celery, silverbeet and spinach

Late blight, septoria leaf blight and downy mildew

30-Sep-21

PER82456

Ridomil Gold MZ WG

Field grown capsicum, chillies, paprika

Downy mildew

30-Sep-20

PER14431

Rizolex Liquid

Lettuce

Bottom rot

30-Jun-22

PER14353

Rovral Aquaflo Fungicide (iprodione)

Peppers and celeriac

Sclerotinia rot

31-Mar-22

PER7909

Scala 400 SC Fungicide

Cucumber

Botrytis rot

30-Sep-22

PER12565

Scala Fungicide

Capsicum and lettuce (protected crops only)

Botrytis rots

30-Sep-22

PER13323

Score Foliar Fungicide (difenoconazole)

Celeriac

Cercospora leaf spot and septoria leaf blight

31-Oct-20

PER82811

S-Metolachlor

Beetrot

Blackberry nightshade

1-Feb-20

PER12384

S-metolachlor (Dual Gold Herbicide)

Rhubarb

Various weeds

31-Aug-20

PER84757

spinetoram

Fruiting vegetables other than cucurbits and root and tuber vegetables

Tomato potato psyllid

30-Nov-20

PER11764

Spiroxamine

Snow peas and sugar snap peas

Powdery mildew

30-Jun-18

PER14186

Success Neo (spinetoram)

Eggplant

Melon thrips

30-Sep-18

PER13322

Success Neo (spinetoram)

Specified leafy vegetables

Potato moth

31-May-22

PER13088

Success Neo Insecticide (spinetoram)

Specified root vegetables, specified alliums and celeriac

Various insect pests

31-Mar-22

PER84743

Sulfloxaflor

Fruiting vegetables

Tomato potato psyllid

31-Oct-22

PER11440

Sumiclex 500 (procymidone)

Peppers

Sclerotinia rot

31-Jan-20

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

YOUR PRODUCTION

Permit No.

Product

Crop

Reason for use

PER80100

Sumitomo Samurai Systematic Insecticide

Fruiting vegetables, excluding cucurbits

Mediterranean fruit fly and Queensland fruit fly

Expiry date 30-Sep-18

PER80101

Sumitomo Samurai Systematic Insecticide

Fruiting vegetables, cucurbits

Cucumber fruit fly

30-Sep-18

PER13721

Switch

Tomatoes (protected)

Grey mould (botrytis)

31-May-21

PER81136

Switch Fungicide

Lettuce

Anthracnose

30-Sep-18

PER84878

Switch Fungicide

Protected and field grown capsicum

Botrytis and sclerotinia

30-Nov-22

PER82374

Talstar

Various crops

Brown marmorated stink bug and yellow-spotted stink bugs

28-Feb-23

PER82063

TEBUCONAZOLE

Garlic

Orange rust

31-Mar-21

PER12447

Teldor 500 SC Fungicide

Peppers (capsicum and chilli), cucumber and lettuce

Botrytis rot

31-May-21

PER12047

Thiabendazole

Sweet potato

Field rots caused by scurf and root rot

30-Sep-21

PER80216

Torque Insecticide (fenbutatin oxide)

Tomatoes (protected)

Two-spotted mite

31-Mar-19

PER14703

Tramat 500 SC Selective Herbicide (ethofumesate)

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea only) and silverbeet

Various weeds

31-Jul-19

PER85011

Transform Insecticide

Nursery stock (non-food)

Aphid, mealybugs, mirids, scale, greenhouse whitefly

28-Feb-23

PER14906

Triadimenol

Leek, chives, shallot, spring and Chinese onions

White rot (Sclerotium)

31-Oct-19

PER11935

Triadimenol

Parsnips, radish, swede and turnip

Powdery mildew

30-Jun-22

PER80717

Trichlorfon

Eggplant, Thai eggplant, pepino and cape gooseberry

Fruit fly

31-Oct-20

PER14891

Trifloxystrobin

Beetroot

Alternaria leaf spot

30-Sep-19

PER14494

Trifloxystrobin

Celery, silverbeet, spinach, chicory and endive

DM, cercospora and septoria

31-Aug-22

PER13726

Trifloxystrobin

Tomatoes (protected)

Powdery mildew

31-May-21

PER12823

Trifluralin

Chillies, paprika and eggplant

Various broad leaf and grass weeds

30-Jun-21

PER13696

Trifluralin

Parsnips

Wintergrass

31-Mar-23

PER14337

Trifluralin

Swedes and turnips

Weeds

30-Jun-20

PER84555

Vapormate (Ethyl Formate)

Fresh fruit and vegetables

Tomato potato psyllid

30-Jun-19

PER84426

Various

Green beans, carrots, spinach and silverbeet

Sclerotinia, botrytis rot and Black rot

31-Mar-19

PER84249

Various

Potato

Tomato potato psyllid

31-Jul-20

PER84063

Various

Vegetables

Tomato potato psyllid

31-Mar-18

PER81271

Various Actives

Leeks

Specified grass and broadleaf weeds

31-Oct-21

PER13778

Various herbicides, insecticides and fungicides

Carrot, onion and brassica seed crops

31-Mar-18

PER14694

VectoBac WG Biological Larvicide

Protected cropping â&#x20AC;&#x201D; capsicum, cucumber, eggplant, herbs and lettuce

30-Jun-19

PER84734

Verdict (haloxyfop)

Onions

Storksbill

31-Dec-21

PER14841

Walabi Fungicide

Chicory, endive, radicchio, silverbeet and spinach

Botrytis and alternaria

30-Sep-19

PER14839

Zineb

Eggplant, spinach and silverbeet

Anthracnose (Colletotrichum spp.)

30-Sep-19

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

119

What's on

what’s on...

Upcoming important events!

March

April

June

October

HARPS Awareness Session

Negotiation Training

Hort Connections

Export Readiness Workshop

WHEN 26 March & 27 March 2018 WHERE Perth & Bunbury HARPS has released a decision matrix to ensure all growers understand their business requirements with HARPS, these workshops will go through this matrix.

WHEN 4th & 5th April 2018 WHERE West Perth A FREE 2-day workshop on negotiation skills for the vegetable industry, with priority given to vegetable R&D levy payers.

WHEN 18–20th June 2018 WHERE Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre AUSVEG and PMA Australia-New Zealand Limited (PMA A-NZ) have again united to deliver the joint industry conference and Trade Show, Hort Connections 2018.

Catering to buyers and sellers from every segment of the fresh produce and floral supply chain including seed companies, growers, packers, processors, shippers, importers and exporters, wholesalers and retailers, foodservice, associated suppliers to the industry, and many more.

WHEN 25 October 2018 WHERE Crown Perth Further information will be available closer to the date.

There will be the opportunity to ask questions about HARPS.

Contact Sam Grubisa, vegetablesWA sam.grubisa@vegetableswa.com.au t: (08) 9486 7515

Contact HARPS t: 1300 852 219

PCA Growers Workshop WHEN 30 April 2018 WHERE Neerabup, Perth WA Greenhouse and Hydroponic growers workshop at Trandos Hydroponics.

Contact Charlie Blogna admin@protecctedcroppingaustralia.com

info@hortconnections.com.au t: (03) 9882 0277

WA Grower advertiser contacts Address

Contact Claire McClelland claire.mcclelland@vegetableswa.com.au t: (08) 9486 7515

Grower Tour & Industry Summit WHEN 25–26 October 2018 WHERE Crown Perth Further information will be available closer to the date.

Contact Rebecca Blackman rebecca.blackman@vegetableswa.com.au t: (08) 9486 7515

Name

Website/Email

Agrimaster (p27)

agrimaster.com.au

Contact name

1800 110 000

Contact no.

Bentonite WA (p51)

bentonitewa.com.au

0418 140 929

Department of Primary Industries (p65) Dobmac Ag Machinery (pOBC)

dobmac.com.au

drumMUSTER (p64)

drummuster.org.au

edp australia pty ltd (p101)

edp.com.au

Hort Connections (pIFC)

hortconnections.com.au

Horticulture Innovation Australia (pIBC) horticulture.com.au

36-38 Industrial Drive, Ulverstone, TAS 7315

Mark Dobson

31-37 OBrien Street, Mooroopna VIC 3269

Mick Schirmer

(03) 6425 5533 1800 008 707

Level 8, 1 Chifley Square, Sydney NSW 2000

0437 252 122 (02) 8295 2300

Jaegar Australia (onsert)

jaegaraustralia.com.au

Alister Luckin

0400 441 444

Landmark Harcourts (p47)

landmarkwa.harcourts.com.au

Adam Shields

0429 104 760

Madec (p93)

harvesttrail.gov.au

1800 062 332

Neutrog Australia Pty Ltd

neutrog.com.au

288 Mine Road, Kanmantoo, SA 5252

(08) 8538 3500

Organic 2000 (Benara Nurseries) (p8)

organic2000.com.au

59 Safari Place, Carabooda, WA 6033

(08) 9407 5182

Paliz Agriculture (p39)

paliz.com.au

21/110 Inspiration Drive Wangara, WA 6065

PowerPak (p105)

powerpak.com.au

1800 982 920

R & E Engineering (p5)

reeng.com.au

(08) 6261 7171

Rivulis (p59)

Rivulis.com.au

1800 558 009

Rural Bank (p55)

ruralbank.com.au

Smith& Georg (p15)

smithandgeorg.com.au

Southern Forest Food Council (p103)

southernforestsfood.com

Total Eden (p9)

totaleden.com.au

WA Crates (p89)

service@wacrates.com.au

120

WA Grower AUTUMN 2018

Hossein Darvish (08) 9303 9638

1800 991 985 (08) 9772 4180 Jon Crate Yard, Market City

0417 911 158 (08) 9456 4092

Let’s talk about your industry

Sam Turner Relationship Manager Hort Innovation

Meet a vegetable industry Relationship Manager and see how he can support you.

Sam is keen to chat with you. He is your link to the latest R&D developments and how these can help your business grow. It’s easy to request a phone call – just go to the ‘Contact Me’ form at horticulture.com.au/contact-me. Alternatively, call 02 8295 2300 or email membership@horticulture.com.au and let us know you would like Sam to call you.

horticulture.com.au

ONION GRADING & PACKING SOLUTIONS M & P Onion Peelers • Small Peeler for 18-45mm Onions or Shallots • Large Peeler for Onions over 45mm • Stainless Steel Construction • Variable Speed Drive • Dry Peeling Process

• Manual Orientation of Onions • Adjustable Operator Station • 415v 3 Phase 50 Hz • Unique Peeling System

Baxmatic®

Fully automated Bagging System Combination Weighing Scale (Optional)

• High capacity (up to 1200 bags/hr) • Quick start-up & changes • Automatic bag placement • Automatic sewing & closing • Bag sizes from 2.5kg to 50kg • Heavy duty construction • Integrated labelling • Online support system • 12 & 16 Head Combination Scales • Up to 1500 scale movements per hour

Turn Key Pack House Solutions • Onion Toppers • Pre Sizers • Intake Hoppers • Dirt Separation • Inspection Tables • Box/Big Bag Fillers • 5-25kg Baggers • Semi & Fully Automatic Palletisers

36-38 Industrial Drive (PO Box 93) Ulverstone TASMANIA. 7315 AUSTRALIA Phone: (03) 6425 5533 Fax: (03) 6425 5847

PO Box 1021, Pukekohe.

New Zealand Phone: 0272 907 281

Email: dobmac@dobmac.com.au Website: www.dobmac.com.au A leader in the design, manufacture & supply of specialised agricultural machinery